Life from a Diva's Point of View
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Kiss and Pink at the Fair
After recovering from our Phoenix trip, Saturday found Michael and I hitting the Cowlitz County Fair for entertainment and lunch. Michael, native of Portland, was given a real awakening to the caliber of locals and rednecks that run in the Longview/Kelso area - or at least those who hang at the fair. We wandered, we ate gyro sandwiches (very good - lots of veggies), listened to a Kiss wannabe band, visited with friends Sally and Janel, then made our way home. My favorite sight of the day? An older lady strutting around in a pink outfit topped with a bright pink fuzzy cowboy hat!!
An Updated Me!
It's summer and I just couldn't help myself! Last Thursday I hit the hair salon and had them cut my do into a chunky bob. The ends were dry and my hair in general seemed to be lacking style. Love my new cut, although the bangs are a bit short; thankfully my hair grows quickly!
<---Diva Hair Before
Diva Hair After ------->
<---Diva Hair Before
Congratulations Matt and Lindsey!!
Congratulations to my nephew Matt and his fiance Lindsey, who were married yesterday in Sitka, Alaska!
Arizona Chapter Ten - Food
Food involves a big part of any vacation taken. Our highlights include:
The Good
Swap Meet Sno Cone - The heat was unbearable and the large cups of flavored ice hit the spot;
Wildflower Bread Company in Sedona - Yummy sandwiches including orzo or fruit salad with yogurt dressing;
Joe's Crab Shack - Our last stop before flying back home. It was very tasty and will be a new spot for us at home;
Camelback Fruit Water - Ice cold water mixed with cucumber, or pineapple, or strawberries hit the spot when we were lounging at the pool.
Subway - After spending two hours driving around Phoenix Saturday night in search of a meal, we were very happy to stumble upon Subway ten minutes before they closed. Damn those sandwiches tasted divine!
The Average
Denny's - Breakfast pit stop; nothing memorable other than my wheat pancakes packed with pecans and topped with bananas;
Ruby Tuesday - Slow service, unmemorable food, and a garden salad buffet which took me back to Wendy's in the eighties;
Boston Market - Rotisserie chicken was good but you can get something pretty close from Fred Meyer's;
The Ugly
Church's Chicken - Did not meet my expectations nor Michael's memory of delectable chicken; was actually very dry, a homeless toothless man was inside begging for a meal, and I had to fend off a stranger trying to strike up a conversation while Michael was in the restroom;
Circle K Breakfast - A sausage and biscuit brick eaten on the way to Sedona, which deserves no other comment.
The Good
Swap Meet Sno Cone - The heat was unbearable and the large cups of flavored ice hit the spot;
Wildflower Bread Company in Sedona - Yummy sandwiches including orzo or fruit salad with yogurt dressing;
Joe's Crab Shack - Our last stop before flying back home. It was very tasty and will be a new spot for us at home;
Camelback Fruit Water - Ice cold water mixed with cucumber, or pineapple, or strawberries hit the spot when we were lounging at the pool.
Subway - After spending two hours driving around Phoenix Saturday night in search of a meal, we were very happy to stumble upon Subway ten minutes before they closed. Damn those sandwiches tasted divine!
The Average
Denny's - Breakfast pit stop; nothing memorable other than my wheat pancakes packed with pecans and topped with bananas;
Ruby Tuesday - Slow service, unmemorable food, and a garden salad buffet which took me back to Wendy's in the eighties;
Boston Market - Rotisserie chicken was good but you can get something pretty close from Fred Meyer's;
The Ugly
Church's Chicken - Did not meet my expectations nor Michael's memory of delectable chicken; was actually very dry, a homeless toothless man was inside begging for a meal, and I had to fend off a stranger trying to strike up a conversation while Michael was in the restroom;
Circle K Breakfast - A sausage and biscuit brick eaten on the way to Sedona, which deserves no other comment.
Chapter Nine - Sedona
It took longer than we thought but when we reached Sedona, it was breathtaking. Both of us had been there before but not for many, many years. Our first stop was for lunch at the Wildflower Bread Company, including sandwiches on nutty bread which was so delicious! We then hit a few tourist shops before taking endless pictures of the fabulous red rock.
Arizona Chapter Eight - Montezuma's Castle
Monday found us
deciding between Sedona or Tucson as our next port of call. We decided on Sedona, which took us right past Montezuma's Castle. For historical background:
Montezuma Castle National Monument quickly became a destination for America's first car-bound tourists. In 1933, "Castle A", a 45-50 room, pueblo ruin was excavated, uncovering a wealth of artifacts and greatly enhanced our understanding of the Sinagua people who inhabited this riparian "oasis" along Beaver Creek for over 400 years. Early visitors to the monument were allowed access to the structure by climbing a series of ladders up the side of the limestone cliffs. However, due to extensive damage to this valuable cultural landmark, public access of the ruins was discontinued in 1951. Now, approximately 350,000 people a year gaze through the the windows of the past during a visit to Montezuma Castle. Even 600 years after their departure, the legacy of the Sinagua people continues to inspire the imaginations of this and future generations.
It was a great pit stop on our way to the red rock of Sedona.
Montezuma Castle National Monument quickly became a destination for America's first car-bound tourists. In 1933, "Castle A", a 45-50 room, pueblo ruin was excavated, uncovering a wealth of artifacts and greatly enhanced our understanding of the Sinagua people who inhabited this riparian "oasis" along Beaver Creek for over 400 years. Early visitors to the monument were allowed access to the structure by climbing a series of ladders up the side of the limestone cliffs. However, due to extensive damage to this valuable cultural landmark, public access of the ruins was discontinued in 1951. Now, approximately 350,000 people a year gaze through the the windows of the past during a visit to Montezuma Castle. Even 600 years after their departure, the legacy of the Sinagua people continues to inspire the imaginations of this and future generations.
It was a great pit stop on our way to the red rock of Sedona.
Arizona Chapter Seven - Mummy Mountain
Before leaving the hotel to explore Phoenix, we ventured to the top of the resort to investigate Mummy Mountain. It appeared to be a Western town used for catered events and parties. It was empty the morning we were there so we were able to investigate it in great detail. Lots of pictures but no activity.
Arizona Chapter Six - The Heard Museum
We were in luck when we learned
the Heard Museum offered free admission during the month of July so it cost us a big zero to browse the building. The Heard Museum showcases Native American arts and crafts from the 19th and 20th centuries.
As we entered the building, I had camera in hand, ready to snap away memories of our visit. I then learned flash photos were not allowed. Now, the camera and I have a love/hate relationship. At the most inopportune moments, it shuts off and blinks "replace batteries", which usually occurs when there are no batteries at hand. In addition, I have yet to master the "no flash" mechanism so I knew my photo taking would have to be purely undercover, as much as a bright flash could offer.
We visited the Sandra Day O'Connor bolo tie gallery, the basket weaving section, and the boarding school exhibition, which was haunting with its history of young natives being sent to government-run boarding schools in order to remove the "savage" from American Indians. It brought to mind the Japanese camps from WWII along with concentration camps. A story new to me but very frightening.
After browsing the Hopi gallery, a museum clerk passed us stating "someone is using a flash, someone is using a flash!" Oops, it was time for my camera to go back into my pocket until we entered the flash friendly zone outside!
As we entered the building, I had camera in hand, ready to snap away memories of our visit. I then learned flash photos were not allowed. Now, the camera and I have a love/hate relationship. At the most inopportune moments, it shuts off and blinks "replace batteries", which usually occurs when there are no batteries at hand. In addition, I have yet to master the "no flash" mechanism so I knew my photo taking would have to be purely undercover, as much as a bright flash could offer.
We visited the Sandra Day O'Connor bolo tie gallery, the basket weaving section, and the boarding school exhibition, which was haunting with its history of young natives being sent to government-run boarding schools in order to remove the "savage" from American Indians. It brought to mind the Japanese camps from WWII along with concentration camps. A story new to me but very frightening.
After browsing the Hopi gallery, a museum clerk passed us stating "someone is using a flash, someone is using a flash!" Oops, it was time for my camera to go back into my pocket until we entered the flash friendly zone outside!
Arizona Chapter Five - ASU
Before arriving to the family reunion on Saturday night, we drove over to Arizona State University to see the sights. As the pictures show, monsoon season was upon Phoenix; along with the thunder and lightening, we also experienced a dust storm.
Arizona Chapter Four - Phoenix Sights
A significant portion of our trip involved driving around Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, Glendale, Peoria, Paradise Valley, Mesa, and Scottsdale, viewing the sights and sounds of each locale. We ventured to the capital building, the homeless shelter where Michael previously worked, an apartment downtown where he previously lived, and, most importantly, the malls, where I snagged a bright pink top and wedge heels from Deb's for $15.
A large portion of our driving and walking time was spent searching for THE soccer store that offered t-shirts for Barcelona, a thank you gift for my boss. There were none to be found! We searched Foot Locker, Glass Cage, All Sports, and even The Soccer Locker, which was located in a fairly scary portion of town. The only item that came close was an $80 jersey; while I appreciated my boss's efforts to score me a resort discount, the room in no way deserved an $80 thank you (well, unless we had received the private pool!)
On our last day in Phoenix, as we made our way to the airport, out of the corner of my eye I spotted a Master Soccer shop. This store was tucked away in a seemingly vacant strip mall, the one shining beacon of life. Just for the heck of it, we pulled into the lot and entered the store. We asked the shop owner if he had Barcelona soccer items. There, direct from his mouth, the angels began singing!! He directed us over to a store corner which included not only jerseys but several cotton tee's from which to choose! It was a moment of pure exultation as we wallowed in our last-chance victory of scoring just the right thank you gift!
A large portion of our driving and walking time was spent searching for THE soccer store that offered t-shirts for Barcelona, a thank you gift for my boss. There were none to be found! We searched Foot Locker, Glass Cage, All Sports, and even The Soccer Locker, which was located in a fairly scary portion of town. The only item that came close was an $80 jersey; while I appreciated my boss's efforts to score me a resort discount, the room in no way deserved an $80 thank you (well, unless we had received the private pool!)
On our last day in Phoenix, as we made our way to the airport, out of the corner of my eye I spotted a Master Soccer shop. This store was tucked away in a seemingly vacant strip mall, the one shining beacon of life. Just for the heck of it, we pulled into the lot and entered the store. We asked the shop owner if he had Barcelona soccer items. There, direct from his mouth, the angels began singing!! He directed us over to a store corner which included not only jerseys but several cotton tee's from which to choose! It was a moment of pure exultation as we wallowed in our last-chance victory of scoring just the right thank you gift!
 |
| The elusive tee....captured! |
Arizona Chapter Three - Swap Meet
Saturday morning
found us rising bright and early with plans to visit the Park-N-Swap swap meet. Michael had been building up this outdoor market for months so I was looking forward to a mecca of bargains, a plethora of Phoenix souvenirs, and a bazaar filled with everything imaginable under the 105 degree sun. What I found was heat, heat, and more heat along with a generous dose of sweat!
After parking, we made our way to the admissions line - $2 a piece to enter the tarp-covered, table-filled lot. Each table or section contained an assortment of shoes, clothing, tools, various services, and garage sale items. Baby, it was hot under that tarped menagerie of items! Our purchases included $5 shorts and tees for Michael along with a pair of silver/rhinestone $8 flip flops for me. Our best purchase? A big cup of shaved ice each - pineapple for Michael and tamarind for me. That so hit the spot!!
After parking, we made our way to the admissions line - $2 a piece to enter the tarp-covered, table-filled lot. Each table or section contained an assortment of shoes, clothing, tools, various services, and garage sale items. Baby, it was hot under that tarped menagerie of items! Our purchases included $5 shorts and tees for Michael along with a pair of silver/rhinestone $8 flip flops for me. Our best purchase? A big cup of shaved ice each - pineapple for Michael and tamarind for me. That so hit the spot!!
Arizona Chapter Two - Family Reunion
Arriving at Aunt Rita's home in Tempe, we were met with a houseful of Michael's family! There were hugs to go all around and new faces to meet - all for me and some for Michael. Rita's place was filled with piano playing and gospel singing, which made us feel so welcomed! The kitchen counter was filled with enchiladas, tacos, salsa, and all other sorts of Mexican goodness to eat.
Friday evening found us making a pit stop at the Doubletree Hotel, the heart of the Ealy/Faucett reunion, where I met for the first time Michael's mother, sister, and nieces. We then bid adieu to all until the official reunion on Saturday night.
Once again we were back to the Doubletree Saturday night, where all the relatives were together. Everyone was dressed up and looking sharp while they visited from table to table meeting and greeting. Based upon the appearance of the buffet (meat tips resembling dog food and apple pie resembling a creamy covered train wreck) we had made the wise decision to not eat dinner until later.
As with any family, it was a cast of characters - the rollicking sisters, the hugging aunts, the amusing uncles, and even a few celebrities:
*Bernard, who spent his career playing piano and touring with his bands - Patti LaBelle and James Ingram;
*Bridget, a renown opera singer who has played Carnegie Hall;
*Brian, former NFL football player with the Arizona Cardinals;
*And cousin Michael Ealy, Hollywood actor who wasn't able to make the reunion.
It was a very memorable event and one I was happy to make with my Michael. Family - in all shapes and sizes - it's a good thing!
Friday evening found us making a pit stop at the Doubletree Hotel, the heart of the Ealy/Faucett reunion, where I met for the first time Michael's mother, sister, and nieces. We then bid adieu to all until the official reunion on Saturday night.
Once again we were back to the Doubletree Saturday night, where all the relatives were together. Everyone was dressed up and looking sharp while they visited from table to table meeting and greeting. Based upon the appearance of the buffet (meat tips resembling dog food and apple pie resembling a creamy covered train wreck) we had made the wise decision to not eat dinner until later.
As with any family, it was a cast of characters - the rollicking sisters, the hugging aunts, the amusing uncles, and even a few celebrities:
*Bernard, who spent his career playing piano and touring with his bands - Patti LaBelle and James Ingram;
*Bridget, a renown opera singer who has played Carnegie Hall;
*Brian, former NFL football player with the Arizona Cardinals;
*And cousin Michael Ealy, Hollywood actor who wasn't able to make the reunion.
It was a very memorable event and one I was happy to make with my Michael. Family - in all shapes and sizes - it's a good thing!
Arizona Chapter One - Camelback
After
rising at 4am to clean up, grab our bags, and go, we made it to the airport for our 7am flight. After checking in at Alaska Airlines (and putting out $20 each for our checked luggage) we obtained our boarding passes fairly quickly; however, the security line was endless! By the time we made it to our gate, the boarding door was closed. Thankfully, they let us in and we were the last ones to enter the flight. I could see the disappointment on our row mate when he realized he would not have the three seats to himself!
The flight itself was uneventful, although we learned that meals are no longer provided non gratis to travelers. We purchased a fruit plate, waffle and sausage to share for our breakfast. Landing in Phoenix, we grabbed our bags then made our way on to the shuttle bus to the car rental building.
Michael had reserved a $9 per day vehicle from Fox Rentals; however, we learned they required a $400 deposit - WTH? That wasn't going to happen so we inquired at a few other rental facilities before settling on Budget for $13 a day and no huge deposit. Convertibles and BMW's danced in our heads but in the end we were happy with our Ford Focus, also known as the gutless wonder.
Due to Michael's Phoenix expertise, we easily found the JW Marriott Camelback Resort, our Arizona accommodation. It is a beautiful estate, offering clay abodes, large pool, restaurants, golf course, and camera-worthy scenery.
We checked in, met my boss's hotel contact, and were given a map to our room. Based upon my boss's information, we expected a large suite with private pool. Unfortunately, as it was with the Ford Focus, our fantasy and reality did not meet. Our room, although very nice, was not a suite nor included a private pool, although it was right across the path from the pool. We called the front desk and learned no suite with pool was available to us, at which point I contacted my boss, who ended up verifying a last minute group had reserved the pool rooms. I was disappointed but understood the reasoning behind selling a high-end room at full price rather than at a discounted friend and family rate.
Room issue settled, we unpacked, cleaned up, then made our way over to Michael's aunt's house to begin celebrating the family reunion.
The flight itself was uneventful, although we learned that meals are no longer provided non gratis to travelers. We purchased a fruit plate, waffle and sausage to share for our breakfast. Landing in Phoenix, we grabbed our bags then made our way on to the shuttle bus to the car rental building.
Michael had reserved a $9 per day vehicle from Fox Rentals; however, we learned they required a $400 deposit - WTH? That wasn't going to happen so we inquired at a few other rental facilities before settling on Budget for $13 a day and no huge deposit. Convertibles and BMW's danced in our heads but in the end we were happy with our Ford Focus, also known as the gutless wonder.
Due to Michael's Phoenix expertise, we easily found the JW Marriott Camelback Resort, our Arizona accommodation. It is a beautiful estate, offering clay abodes, large pool, restaurants, golf course, and camera-worthy scenery.
We checked in, met my boss's hotel contact, and were given a map to our room. Based upon my boss's information, we expected a large suite with private pool. Unfortunately, as it was with the Ford Focus, our fantasy and reality did not meet. Our room, although very nice, was not a suite nor included a private pool, although it was right across the path from the pool. We called the front desk and learned no suite with pool was available to us, at which point I contacted my boss, who ended up verifying a last minute group had reserved the pool rooms. I was disappointed but understood the reasoning behind selling a high-end room at full price rather than at a discounted friend and family rate.
Room issue settled, we unpacked, cleaned up, then made our way over to Michael's aunt's house to begin celebrating the family reunion.
Friday, July 27, 2012
TGIF and I'm Back!!!
TGIF Divas!! I'm back from my vacation and ready to begin blogging about my trip, which I shall separate by chapters. Stay tuned for an Arizona story!!
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Doesn't It Just Figure??!!
Wouldn't you know it....time for a vacation and Aunt Flo may be knocking on the door. On my way home from work, Michael mentioned that it may be time for my monthly visitor. I asked him how he knew; he then outlined the signs he sees each month:
*I was having a bad hair day (in fact, this afternoon I pulled out my hair clip and stuck my hair up as it was driving me crazy);
*A few situations at work, nothing out of the ordinary, made me very irritable;
*I was tired and emotional;
*I yearned for some time away from work, so much so that I extended my vacation three additional days so I will have a full week off.
I had to agree - these are frequently the signs I display monthly just about when Cousin Red comes to visit. All I can say is Lord, if you can't wait until after our vacation, please don't let me start on the plane!!!
*I was having a bad hair day (in fact, this afternoon I pulled out my hair clip and stuck my hair up as it was driving me crazy);
*A few situations at work, nothing out of the ordinary, made me very irritable;
*I was tired and emotional;
*I yearned for some time away from work, so much so that I extended my vacation three additional days so I will have a full week off.
I had to agree - these are frequently the signs I display monthly just about when Cousin Red comes to visit. All I can say is Lord, if you can't wait until after our vacation, please don't let me start on the plane!!!
Have Baggage Will Travel
Well, we've been waiting for this trip for the last few months and now we are down to the deadline. Friday morning will find us jetting off for our adventure. In order to properly prepare, we have both had to pack, which has resulted in a comedy of comparisons between at least this man and woman packing for a trip:
Michael - Done packing almost a week before departure;
Diva - A day before departure and I'm still meditating on what additional items I need to bring;
Michael- Two pairs of shoes. Who needs more than a pair of sneakers and sandals?
Diva - Three pairs of flip flops, a pair of dressier sandals, and slip-on sneakers. Five pairs but I'm still debating whether or not I should take a pair of wedges. I'm trying to hold back and not take my ratty, beat up house flip flops that should never see the light of day outside of the house;
Michael - Five sets of shorts, shirt, underwear and socks for each day, layered ready to wear in the suitcase;
Diva - Four pairs of shorts, two pairs of capris, three dresses, two swimsuits, eight or so shirts, sleepwear, and underwear, folded but squished in order to free up more room for perhaps the wedges mentioned above. Layering in order of day? Ha, surely you jest! This Diva never knows what she will wear until day break!;
Michael - Necessary toiletry items such as razor, toothbrush, and paste;
Diva - A whole three-section makeup bag filled with my very necessary supplies such as primer, foundation, powder, eye shadow and liner, brow pencil, blush, lip stick and gloss. Along with deodorant, toothbrush/paste, floss, and Q-tips, there are travel sizes of shampoo, conditioner, body gel, and body scrub. Ooops, can't forget the hair products such as curl creme, Moroccan oil, hair spray, brush, comb, and two curling irons. I've already checked to ensure a blow dryer is available so I'll be leaving my large one at home! Perhaps I should take a real vacation and leave all of my face and body products at home, going au natural while we are gone? Uh, noooooo!!!! Not happening in this lifetime!!!
Michael - Packed, organized and ready to depart! His middle name should be cool, calm and collected!;
Diva - Do I need a jacket? What do I wear on the plane? Will I wear makeup to the airport or go sans cosmetics, wearing sunglasses to shield my naked complexion? Should I take my magazines? And where did I put my camera?
Here's to a perfect trip where I can understand his organization and he can accept my baggage...literally!
Michael - Done packing almost a week before departure;
Diva - A day before departure and I'm still meditating on what additional items I need to bring;
Michael- Two pairs of shoes. Who needs more than a pair of sneakers and sandals?
Diva - Three pairs of flip flops, a pair of dressier sandals, and slip-on sneakers. Five pairs but I'm still debating whether or not I should take a pair of wedges. I'm trying to hold back and not take my ratty, beat up house flip flops that should never see the light of day outside of the house;
Michael - Five sets of shorts, shirt, underwear and socks for each day, layered ready to wear in the suitcase;
Diva - Four pairs of shorts, two pairs of capris, three dresses, two swimsuits, eight or so shirts, sleepwear, and underwear, folded but squished in order to free up more room for perhaps the wedges mentioned above. Layering in order of day? Ha, surely you jest! This Diva never knows what she will wear until day break!;
Michael - Necessary toiletry items such as razor, toothbrush, and paste;
Diva - A whole three-section makeup bag filled with my very necessary supplies such as primer, foundation, powder, eye shadow and liner, brow pencil, blush, lip stick and gloss. Along with deodorant, toothbrush/paste, floss, and Q-tips, there are travel sizes of shampoo, conditioner, body gel, and body scrub. Ooops, can't forget the hair products such as curl creme, Moroccan oil, hair spray, brush, comb, and two curling irons. I've already checked to ensure a blow dryer is available so I'll be leaving my large one at home! Perhaps I should take a real vacation and leave all of my face and body products at home, going au natural while we are gone? Uh, noooooo!!!! Not happening in this lifetime!!!
Michael - Packed, organized and ready to depart! His middle name should be cool, calm and collected!;
Diva - Do I need a jacket? What do I wear on the plane? Will I wear makeup to the airport or go sans cosmetics, wearing sunglasses to shield my naked complexion? Should I take my magazines? And where did I put my camera?
Here's to a perfect trip where I can understand his organization and he can accept my baggage...literally!
Sunday, July 15, 2012
A Few of My Favorite Things
Here are a few of my recent favorite things:
Shea Moisture brand Organic Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Conditioning Milk. The smell is divine and, when I'm going curly girl, it leaves my hair soft and silky. I put it on before blow drying then add a dab when done.
The other night when Michael and I were having dinner at Applebee's, the waitress sported some show stopping, shades of gray eye shadow. She said it was Sonia Kashuk brand. I swung by Target, which carries the brand, and picked up an eyeshadow quad in a rosy brown trio. Love it!!!
While at dinner, Michael and I ordered appetizers for dinner. We happen to both love their Won Ton Tacos; after studying our food, I figured "I could do that!" Which I did. Tonight. Unfortunately Michael was not here to share my new found won ton skills; I sent him a picture of my dinner but I believe that just made it worse!!! (And yes, babe, I promise to make this for you in the near future!!)
Here's my recipe; although I forgot the cilantro and peppers, they were still yummy!!
Diva's Won Ton Tacos
6 Won Ton wrappers (I used round Gyoza wrappers)
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1 cup coleslaw cabbage in the bag (including carrots)
1/4 cup minced red and green pepper
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1-2 tablespoons teriyaki dressing (I used Litehouse Sesame Ginger dressing)
Heat about 1/4 to 1/2 cup oil in small fry pan on medium heat. When hot, place won ton wrappers, one at a time, in the oil. Cook on one side then flip and cook on the other. This only takes about 15 seconds per side. Remove from oil and as you place it on a paper towel lined plate, fold it to resemble a taco shell.
When done with shells, mix together dressing and chicken and heat in the microwave for 1 minutes. Remove, then add cabbage, peppers, and cilantro. Stir to coat, adding additional dressing if you desire. Fill the won ton shells with cabbage filling (I had to use my fingers to do the filling as it was easier than a spoon.) Eat and enjoy!!!
This recipe can be increased based upon the number of people you are feeding.
The other night when Michael and I were having dinner at Applebee's, the waitress sported some show stopping, shades of gray eye shadow. She said it was Sonia Kashuk brand. I swung by Target, which carries the brand, and picked up an eyeshadow quad in a rosy brown trio. Love it!!!While at dinner, Michael and I ordered appetizers for dinner. We happen to both love their Won Ton Tacos; after studying our food, I figured "I could do that!" Which I did. Tonight. Unfortunately Michael was not here to share my new found won ton skills; I sent him a picture of my dinner but I believe that just made it worse!!! (And yes, babe, I promise to make this for you in the near future!!)
 |
| Applebee's Won Ton Tacos |
Here's my recipe; although I forgot the cilantro and peppers, they were still yummy!!
Diva's Won Ton Tacos
6 Won Ton wrappers (I used round Gyoza wrappers)
1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
1 cup coleslaw cabbage in the bag (including carrots)
1/4 cup minced red and green pepper
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1-2 tablespoons teriyaki dressing (I used Litehouse Sesame Ginger dressing)
Heat about 1/4 to 1/2 cup oil in small fry pan on medium heat. When hot, place won ton wrappers, one at a time, in the oil. Cook on one side then flip and cook on the other. This only takes about 15 seconds per side. Remove from oil and as you place it on a paper towel lined plate, fold it to resemble a taco shell.
When done with shells, mix together dressing and chicken and heat in the microwave for 1 minutes. Remove, then add cabbage, peppers, and cilantro. Stir to coat, adding additional dressing if you desire. Fill the won ton shells with cabbage filling (I had to use my fingers to do the filling as it was easier than a spoon.) Eat and enjoy!!!
This recipe can be increased based upon the number of people you are feeding.
 |
| Diva's Won Ton Tacos |
Saturday, July 14, 2012
So Wrong They Are So Right
I ran across these leopard jeans on a clearance rack and simply couldn't resist! Aren't they fab??!!
I think paired with a black tee and black flats or even white sneakers and they will look so good! Now I'm just waiting for the perfect occasion!!!
Thanks for the Memories
In search of some new shorts for the Phoenix trip, I swung by Fashion Bug to search for clearance items. I picked up several marked-down light weight shirts, khaki crops, and shorts along with some new lingerie (they are an excellent source of attractive underthings for the curvy kind of gal.) While I was browsing, I overheard the cashier mention something about the store closing. Now, in this apparel-challenged community, we need every women's fashion store we have so I didn't think too kindly about losing one of my wardrobe pit stops. I ended up researching this rumor on line and what did I find? It was true!!! Per the press release:
And another retail store joins the legions (i.e., Meier & Frank, Kenny Shoes, I. Magnin, etc.) in memory only, but hopefully with a kick-ass clearance sale before they depart!!
Fashion Bug, a low-priced women's clothing chain, will be closing in early 2013. Ascena Retail Group Inc. has completed its buyout of Charming Shoppes Inc., which owns the chain, and now plans to close the remaining several hundred Fashion Bug stores by early next year.
And another retail store joins the legions (i.e., Meier & Frank, Kenny Shoes, I. Magnin, etc.) in memory only, but hopefully with a kick-ass clearance sale before they depart!!
Dreaming of Arizona
In a week Michael and I will be waking up in sunny Scottsdale, Arizona. Along with obtaining inexpensive flights, our room reservation cannot be matched, courtesy of my boss. We will be staying four nights at the JW Marriott Camelback Resort in not just a room but a magnificent room - 1,650 sq. feet with it's own private pool! Yee haw!!! And all within the confines of my Marriott gift certificate, which makes it even better!!
We've been counting down the minutes to sun, swimming, and five days filled with rest and relaxation, Although I've been to the Phoenix area several times, since Michael used to live there he will serve as my official tour guide. We have so many activities we want to accomplish; however, our first and foremost directive to keep in mind is to relax, relax, relax.
Today will be spent picking up necessary items (i.e., sunscreen!) along with digging through my clothes to determine if there is a swimsuit to be had....an acceptable swim suit mind you. Stubbs also has a visit to the vet to update his shots so he is acceptable to be boarded while we are gone. Poor baby but at least it's comforting to know he will spend the night with the shop owner. And since my boys are gone until August 2, my mind can rest in the fact that all will remain well with the house.
Here's to a vacation full of memories in a land full of sunshine!
We've been counting down the minutes to sun, swimming, and five days filled with rest and relaxation, Although I've been to the Phoenix area several times, since Michael used to live there he will serve as my official tour guide. We have so many activities we want to accomplish; however, our first and foremost directive to keep in mind is to relax, relax, relax.
Today will be spent picking up necessary items (i.e., sunscreen!) along with digging through my clothes to determine if there is a swimsuit to be had....an acceptable swim suit mind you. Stubbs also has a visit to the vet to update his shots so he is acceptable to be boarded while we are gone. Poor baby but at least it's comforting to know he will spend the night with the shop owner. And since my boys are gone until August 2, my mind can rest in the fact that all will remain well with the house.
Here's to a vacation full of memories in a land full of sunshine!
Friday, July 13, 2012
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Growing Old and Growing Up
As part of my job, I'm privy to a lot of private information about employees. Including age. There are times when I'm sitting one-on-one with my co-workers, helping them complete forms or enrollments, and they give me their date of birth. Oftentimes I'm shocked to hear that someone is younger than me when they clearly appear to be much older. I find myself feeling good, flattered, and perhaps even prideful that they have aged significantly worse than I. As much as this boosts my ego, it is so wrong in many other ways. What does it matter if I appear younger than someone? Or older? Why does this make a difference in the meaning of life? And is my ego so shallow that any sign of personal narcissism is acceptable?
The obvious reason this occurs appears to be my own personal preoccupation with age and getting older. However, wrinkles and gray hair should be a badge of honor, not attributes to be hidden. Instead of comparing my own number of years to my co-workers, I need to seek out their stories in order to learn what has brought them to that moment. I need to celebrate the fact that this person in front of me has a captivating story to tell, regardless of age in comparison to me. Spinning my preoccupation with age into this positive format will help me focus on the significance of life rather than simply boosting my self-esteem and shallowness.
The obvious reason this occurs appears to be my own personal preoccupation with age and getting older. However, wrinkles and gray hair should be a badge of honor, not attributes to be hidden. Instead of comparing my own number of years to my co-workers, I need to seek out their stories in order to learn what has brought them to that moment. I need to celebrate the fact that this person in front of me has a captivating story to tell, regardless of age in comparison to me. Spinning my preoccupation with age into this positive format will help me focus on the significance of life rather than simply boosting my self-esteem and shallowness.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Hello Monday!
Aww, weekend....over so soon! It was especially sweet due to the magnificent, warm weather! After some solo shopping in Clackamas on Saturday (killer clearance deals at JC Penny), Michael and I spent Sunday mowing and weeding the back yard. Sooo much better! However, I am toying with the idea of hiring a lawn care company to weed the front yard, which contains a flowerbed of rocks with dandelions and assorted greenery poking through the pebbles. It is so not calling me!! If it can be gotten under control, it can be maintained....or at least that's the plan!
Have a great week, Divas!
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Lettering for the Living Room
Diva Marie sent me a link for Vinyl Wall Lettering on Ebay. These are the unique sayings you can plaster on a wall for humor or poetic inspiration. Of course Marie referred me to a Diva saying that seemed to be calling my name. They have tons of inexpensive wall letter decor so check it out if you desire a saying for one of your rooms. Thanks for the tip Marie!!!
Demolition Derby Diva
Sister Erin, in honor of her recent 40th birthday, will be participating in the 2012 Nantucket Demolition Derby. Wow - never knew this was one of her passions but we are standing full force behind her!!! Good luck and be safe little sis!!
Happy Birthday Bobby!!!
Happy Birthday to my bud from work Bobby!!! Here's a pic of him being serenaded at lunch yesterday but the work crew. I never knew he could get so red!!!
Friday, July 6, 2012
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Just When I Thought It Was Over....
Leaving for the store, we exited the garage then pushed the button to close it. It went down like a charm then....opened up again. Shut it again. Opened again. Shut. Open . Shut. Open. Swear words. More shutting. More opening. Escalated swearing.
At that point, we got out to investigate. Nothing was blocking the door or the sensors. Michael stayed inside to determine what was happening while I pushed and repushed the button. Michael ended up having to pull the cord for manual operation; all of a sudden, the opener came off the track! Electronic operation was now kaput!
Michael later called the installer for Sears via the handy 800 number on the wall unit . They apologized for the problem and said they would call in the morning to schedule time to come out and fix it. We breathed a little easier and enjoyed the rest of our evening, which included cleaning out the fish tank, installing a new filter, and adding two more fish to my menagerie of aquatic creatures.
Morning arrived and while I went to work Michael took over garage door duty. Brian with the installation company called at 8:30; after asking if Michael could fix the door himself (uh NO), he said he would be at the house today. Michael then waited. And waited. And waited some more, Finally at 2pm Brian called only to say (without seeing the opener) that he didn't feel it was an installation problem and Michael should call Sears, which he promptly did. Sears was none too pleased to hear about the installer passing the buck and said they would take care of it. Shortly thereafter, old Brian called back, told Michael he was mistaken, then asked to reschedule for a new day. Michael politely declined and told him he had waited all day for the job to be done and it would have to be done today. Brian understood the urgency of the problem and said they would be leaving Vancouver to make their way to my place.
The installer, not Brian but his partner, showed up about 4:15 pm to inspect the door. He said it WAS obviously the installation - the original technician had not installed the rail extension correctly. He apologized to Michael and said Brian wasn't going to be happy learning that Michael was right and he was wrong,
At last the garage door opener was fixed. The angels then sang when I arrived home, pushed the button, and voila! The door opened!!
A big thank you to my man Michael for kickin butt and keep the installers in line in order to get my garage door opener up and running!
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Monday, July 2, 2012
Spa Toes To Die For!!
Aren't these cute?
One of my co-workers, let's call her "Spa Diva", showed off this work of art on her toes. Not only did she paint these herself but she insisted on contorting herself into a position which allowed her to paint her toes holding them extrememly close to her face! It was very impressive and ala Cirqu du Soleil!!! I think she has missed her calling!!!
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Reunion - Chapter 2
After recuperating a few hours from the family reunion, I made my way over to the historic Monticello Hotel to meet up with my 1982 classmates from R.A. Long High School. There were a ton of us there! In earlier reunions, it was, of course, about who married whom, where people were living, how many children, etc. For the 30th reunion, the tide has turned and classmates appeared to be grateful to relive memories with everyone no matter the background, simply being thankful we were alive and well. We've experienced a few deaths of classmates in recent months so perhaps that spurred the attendance, along with the continued publicity of the event on Facebook.
Along with my twin brother, it was nice to meet up with some of my close pals from high school - Lisa, Marie, and Carri, along with seeing old neighbors and frequent friends from Facebook. I have to give a special shout out to classmate Sue H., who confided to me she loves the Diva Blog, going so far as to email it to herself at work so she could read it daily within the electronic rules of her job. Now that's a true House of Diva fan!!
We may have been fatter, have crow's feet, were gray, and bald but this didn't matter.What mattered is we met again to celebrate one of the most iconic moments of our life - high school - and there were no longer cliques or divisions. There was simply a gang of friends getting together to hug, enjoy each other, empathize about the bad, relive the good, share email, commit to staying in touch, and look forward to our 35th reunion!
P.S. Big Kudos to my brother Todd who worked so hard behind the scenes to make this event successful!
Along with my twin brother, it was nice to meet up with some of my close pals from high school - Lisa, Marie, and Carri, along with seeing old neighbors and frequent friends from Facebook. I have to give a special shout out to classmate Sue H., who confided to me she loves the Diva Blog, going so far as to email it to herself at work so she could read it daily within the electronic rules of her job. Now that's a true House of Diva fan!!
We may have been fatter, have crow's feet, were gray, and bald but this didn't matter.What mattered is we met again to celebrate one of the most iconic moments of our life - high school - and there were no longer cliques or divisions. There was simply a gang of friends getting together to hug, enjoy each other, empathize about the bad, relive the good, share email, commit to staying in touch, and look forward to our 35th reunion!
P.S. Big Kudos to my brother Todd who worked so hard behind the scenes to make this event successful!
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| Darby, Todd and Pam - the hosts with the most |
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| Jamie and Russ |
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| Jamie, Lisa and Russ with yearbook in hand |
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| Me familia - Todd and Angie |
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| Lifelong buds Carri, Lisa, Marie and Diva |
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| Packed lounge |
Reunion - Chapter 1
Saturday started off with a bang when all of my family met up at Red Lobster to celebrate June Birthdays along with my son Jordan graduating. It was a very large and loud table! Following lunch, we headed over to Arlene's for cake, ice cream and more visiting. It was almost like Christmas with the whole gang together again! It made me wish for a weekend getaway with all of them so we could have more one-on-one time with each other to catch up and talk. Perhaps one day soon we will be able to book a beach house in order to have an extended round of R&R with each other!
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