Post Christmas Adventures

Christmas is done and now we are nearing 2014.  Tomorrow brings my return to work but only for Monday then Tuesday and Wednesday off for the holiday before back to work on Thursday.  Will be rough returning for a full week!!

Christmas Eve and Christmas were very enjoyable, spending my time with both my sons and Michael. One of the gifts I received from the boys was the Wizard of Oz 75th Anniversary book - lots of stories and trivia behind the movie.  And, although we had agreed not to give each other gifts, Michael surprised me with not one but two snow globes - a glittery 2013 holiday globe and another red robin lighted globe. 

Most of the rest of the week was spent back and forth between Michael's place and mine.  He had a doctor's appointment on Thursday for which I tagged along; upon meeting one of his long-time doctors, I proceeded to klutzily spill a cup of water all over my pants and into my purse.  Not a fun experience wearing wet jeans for the morning!  In addition, my purse was filled with loose cough drops; the spilled water mingled with these drops and it was a goopy, sticky mess.

After returning home Friday morning, I made a return trip to Portland on Saturday so Michael and I could cruise to Spirit Mountain to test our luck.  This casino seems to be Michael's hot spot; although I did make a small win, Michael made a coup.  We didn't stay long and  upon our return to town we picked up Chinese food, eating to our heart's content before we drifted off to sleep.

Returning home this morning, I made a pit stop at the Gresham Target to see what type of Christmas bargains were in store.  Sadly, the markdown price was still at 50% so my purchases were few.  I swung into the Woodland Walmart on my cruise home; still at 50% there, so the only after-Christmas purchase I made was a holiday dog toy for Stubbs.

Today I dug through my purse collection in order to switch out my sticky purse for a clean one.    Because I'm not good at thoroughly cleaning out my purses before putting them away, browsing through my purses is like a walk down memory lane.  This one contains a Quinault casino information booklet from our last trip there; that one a lost box of Altoids; and another one holds one of my favorite lip glosses I thought I had lost.  It's always a treasure adventure when I switch out to a different purse!!  This also may beg the question, according to a survey, that purses are dirtier and more bacteria-ridden than a toilet!!

Here's to a quick and painless Monday!!!

Merry Christmas Eve!!

Something Had to Give!!!

Of Love and Shopping

Another Sunday evening is approaching and once again my weekend has been jampacked!

I had to work late until 7pm on Friday, which didn't put me home until almost 8pm.  I arrived just in time to see once again I did not win $5,000 on Wheel of Fortune, of which I'm a card carrying member of the Wheel Watchers Club. 

Saturday morning I rose early then drove to Vancouver Mall to finish my Christmas shopping.  That mall was packed!!!  Wandering browsing, shopping, lugging purchases....by the time I left I was hot and sweaty.  Especially since I had to edge myself past all the kiddies and cranky parents in the Santa line, which was stretched to kingdom come. 

Continuing on I-205 South, I drove to see my Michael.  He met me outside and we completed a couple of errands before returning to his place.  It has been so long since I spent the night at his place and it was such a nice retreat from home. We watched movies, Just Cause (awesome) and Water for Elephants (no chemistry between Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson so for me it was just a so-so film.)

This morning we ate breakfast at Elmer's then I hit the road for home.  Stopping at Walmart, I picked up groceries for Christmas dinner along with a few more gift items for the boys. Arriving home, I whipped up a batch of Rich Bars, made with a cake mix, carmel, chocolate chips, and nuts.  While that was baking, I threw a roast into the crock pot then wrapped all my gifts.  On top of all that, I decided it was time to clean the aquarium!  Finally, I sat down to relax and watched Thelma and Louise. 

My Korean pot roast is done so it's time for dinner.  The following clip is one of my favorite scenes from one of my favorite movies, Love Actually.  This one is dedicated to you, my Michael.  For now and for always, Merry Christmas my love.

TGIF!!!

It's less than a week to Christmas and how much gift shopping have I done?  None!!!  Time to get with the program this weekend.  Now that the boys are grown it's much harder to select gifts for them, although Jordan provided me with a lengthy list last night, filled with Dr. Who items, video games, and "anything odd or morbid".  Methinks a trip to Vancouver Mall (or a mortuary) this weekend may be in order!

The annual cruise of Santa in my neighborhood occurred this week.  It used to be Old St. Nick on a fire truck; now it has evolved into Santa on a lighted float with singers.  This year even included a pre-cruise pilot car alerting everyone that Santa was on his way.  Very festive!

This week found me making my way to our front lobby at work to view the annual winter wonderland scene.  I tried to take a picture in front of our awesome gingerbread house but, since guests were eating dinner in it, the picture didn't turn out quite as well as expected.  So here's one in front of the fake snow and critters.

Have an awesome weekend and enjoy the storm before the Christmas calm!!!



Merry Christmas!!

Countdown to Family Party

Today is my family's annual Christmas party.  Packed to go are my $10 game gift, appetizer tray, and four large batches of brownie whoopee bars, chocolate chip cookie dough bars, white chocolate macadamia nut cookies, and shortbread bites.  Time to hop in the shower in order to be ready to go at 9:30.  Normally I break out a dress and heels, but this year I'm taking it easy - jeans and boots!  Here's to a successful, relaxing party with lots of laughter!

To Die For Nuggets!!!

Ran across a recipe for these cookies on Facebook and had to make them for my upcoming family Christmas party.  We are all a lover of chocolate chip cookie dough; these little nuggets are Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars - no eggs, no baking, and they turned out wonderful.  I whipped them up last night then sliced into bars this morning and popped into the back freezer so they are ready for the party.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars

Ingredients
•½ c. unsalted butter, softened
•¾ c. packed light brown sugar
•1 tsp. vanilla extract
•2 c. all purpose flour
•1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
•2 c. mini chocolate chips
•½ cup creamy peanut butter
•½ cup milk chocolate chips

Instructions
1.Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and set aside.
2.In a large mixing bowl, mix together butter and brown sugar until it is fluffy. This takes about 3 minutes. Add vanilla and bet until combined.
3.Turn the mixer to low and alternate the flour and the sweetened condensed milk until combined. Gently fold in chocolate chips.
4.Press the cookie dough into the bottom of the 8×8 pan. It will be sticky so lightly flour your hands if needed.
5.Cover your bars with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight until firm.
6.To make the topping, combine the peanut butter and ½ cup chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl. Stir every 30 seconds until smooth. Pour and spread over the top of the chilled dough and chill at least for 1 hour until firm.

Getting Up Early Ain't for Sissies!

Always an early riser, lately the morning has been coming way too soon for me.  This morning found me waking up around 3:30 am, bright-eyed and bushy tailed.  Turning on the TV, hoping the Trisha Goddard show would lull me to sleep, instead becoming engrossed in the "is he the father or isn't he" topic for the day.  Giving in, I crawled out of bed, made my coffee, and watched the morning news at 4:30.  Ugh. On the plus side, my Michael has this same sleeping pattern so he was awake for me to text at the ungodly hour. 

This morning brought another gift - more snow with threat of ice on the road.  Hopefully I-5 will be bare during my commute.  Here's to everyone having a safe and warm Tuesday!!!

How the Media Failed Women in 2013

Very insightful point of view!!!

Breaking Out His Winter Attire, Stubbs Enjoys the Snow

Better Safe than Sorry

It's Friday and I woke up to .....SNOW!!!  Thinking optimistically, I proceeded with my normal work day routine.  My attire for today included tights, knee-high boots, sweater, and a new scarf I recently sewed with clearance Halloween material.  Easing out of the driveway, I cruised on to I-5 Northbound to make my way to work. 

The freeway didn't seem bad but snow flurries were coming down strong.  Then, only about 5 miles into my drive, traffic came to a halt.  Keeping in the slow lane and peering ahead, the traffic jam could be seen stretched up ahead for several more miles.  More than one police car passed me by on the shoulder; easing up to the bottleneck, it was clearly an extensive wreck which caused the backlog.   There were two to three vehicles involved, including a semi truck and vintage RV that was obliterated....and I mean obliterated....on the road.  At that point my mind was made up to turn around, go home and take a vacation day. 

Taking the first Castle Rock exit, my car slid around as I tried to cross the street to the Portland return route. On the underpass was a police car and several other trucks sitting, investigating a work truck that had tumbled off the freeway and sat, upside down, on the grass next to the on-ramp.  Scary!!!  Driving about 5 miles per hour, my car crept on to the freeway Southbound, making my way back home. The snow began getting heavier and heavier; I breathed a sigh of relief when my car entered my garage.  Whew! 

Here's to everyone having a safe Friday with our first day of snow!!! 

Thanksgiving Wrap Up

The Thanksgiving holiday weekend was a jumble of activity.  Thursday Jordan, Sam and I enjoyed a nice dinner of turkey and sides before kicking back and watching movies.  Friday Sam took his rig in for a new water pump; I slept in then braved Target for a prescription.  Thankfully I missed the Black Friday melee but did pick up a DVD player for $19.99. 

Saturday found Sam and I visiting the auto office to license his car.  Unfortunately, the state system placed the car at a much, much higher value than what we paid so we were forced to stop in our tracks and return home to print off an appraisal.  The printer has been collecting dust; after two hours trying to hook it up to my laptop, we ended up saving the Edmunds appraisal on a flash drive, booking it to his friend's house to print, then rushing back to the licensing office with only a minute to spare in order to get the title in order.  Whew!  Another task off the list!

Sunday found me cleaning, organizing, and setting up some Christmas décor on the outside porch as well as inside.  Significantly cutting back, this year we are having a two-foot silver and blue tree sitting on a table in living room window as our Christmas tree.  It's just one of those years where none of us are in the mood to haul the numerous holiday goodies out of the attic and garage....it's going to be a simple year.

Last night Sam drove to Woodland with Jordan in tow meet with his supervisor and obtain keys for his new job.  Unfortunately, Jordan called to inform me that Sam actually began work which resulted in me, with Stubbs along for the ride, cruising to Woodland to pick up him.  We had a nice visit on our return ride.  I was happy to see Sam had made it home safe and sound this morning from his first shift.

My biggest regret so far of this holiday season?  I have not seen my Michael in two weeks!!!  Between both of us being sick along with the holiday, potential snow, and car tasks, we have been unable to connect in person.  Miss you Babe and can't wait for us to see each other very soon!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving 2013

Enjoy your holiday!!! This year I took the easy way out - bought a turkey breast along with already prepared potatoes, sweet potatoes, gravy, stuffing, rolls, and pumpkin pie!!!   Should be the fastest prepared meal ever!!!

New Car and New Responsibility

Youngest son now has a job so to make his work commute easier, yesterday I purchased a car for the young lad.  After reviewing numerous Craig's List ads, we called a few then settled on previewing this model.  Clean, well-cared for and well-running, and serviced regularly so we decided to buy.  A 2003 Chevy Impala....yes, a V6 for him, which cost a little more for insurance but for the price as well as its shape makes me worry less about his safety.  He's now on the responsibility train so I'm eager to see that he lives up to this mission.

Now, before anyone asks why oldest son does not have a car, he is not a driver. He doesn't want to get his license and prefers to be a rider as well as a walker so if that works for him, it works for me. 

Smorgasbord Summary for Sunday

Friday night involved perusing Pinterest for manicure ideas.  Here's what I duplicated; oh, nails are such a fun canvas for art.


Saturday involved car shopping.  Son with license but no car....what to do?   We had been tossing around the idea of buying him a cheap used car, then we looked at better used cars, which would involve a car loan, and then the thought came that perhaps I should get a new car and he could use my Kia. This turned into a trip, with kids in two, to Vancouver Dick Hannah yesterday morning to peruse a new vehicle.

Took one for a test spin then sat down to work out the details. Ugh….I just do not care for car salesmen and their process. I channeled my Michael and his straight-forward attitude, taking to heart we were discussing my money. After a few back and forth discussions, then being tag-teamed by the salesman and the financial dude, I finally broke. I told them I’d think about it and come back if I continued to be interested. The salesman asked if it was because I didn’t trust their discounts or him; I replied it was a little of both. Gathering my purse and my “bodyguards”, I thanked the salesman and we departed. Speaking with Michael later, it was clear his original advice to me that Sam needs a cheap used car rather than allowing him to drive my new Kia was a much better plan.  Lesson learned and I'm committed to taking his practical advice rather than letting my stubbornness get in the way of being smart!

After the dealership ordeal, we ate lunch at Red Robin then hit Vancouver Mall for some browsing. I’ve been looking for a nice pair of leather knee high boots; unfortunately, due to my rather large and muscular calves, it’s hard to find a pair that will zip up past my ankles! Many, many years ago I purchased a very nice pair of cognac brown leather boots at Nordstrom, which I simply adored, so my first stop was there. I was pleasantly surprised to see tons of reduced, clearance boots available, including wide-calf models. After trying on four pairs, my selection was an Ecco pair of leather boots with buckles.

My final stop was at Old Navy, where I picked up a cute sweater along with a clearance-priced sweatshirt with rhinestone trim. Locating Sam and Jordan, we then departed the mall and made our way for home.

This morning sister Julie sent me a cute picture of her newly colored hair. It was the first time she had a “weave”, which turned out great! Really brings out her blue eyes!!! You are fabulous Jube!!! Speaking of hair, today may take me back to the salon to get my asymmetrical bob trimmed. The longer side just seems too heavy so a minor clip job is in order.

That’s it for my weekend before Thanksgiving!!! Have a fabulous Sunday Divas!!!

Lookin good Sis!!!

TGIF!!!

The Mind Says Thirties but The Back Says Not!

This week has been exhausting with a capital E!  After a week of backache and pains, I finally broke down and made a doctor's appointment on Monday.  My lower back had been in distress for almost a week - there was no reason for it, simply got out of bed and was in pain.  It was ignored, it was deluged with Tylenol, but alas nothing worked so the doctor was my last resort, mainly for prescription pain killer.

Meeting up with the doctor at the urgent care clinic, I described my lower back agony, which had began spreading to my gluteus maximus area.  After getting big points following his comment of "are you in your thirties?", the doctor prescribed muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory painkillers.  He also put me on two days of bed rest to recuperate.

 

On top of my back ache, a cold decided to descend upon my pain-riddled body.  Tuesday and Wednesday were spent in a drug induced fog, including but not limited to a nose running like a faucet, chronic cough, and numerous naps.  The only excursion made from my bed or the couch was a short trip to Walmart on Wednesday, wearing the same sweatpants that adorned my posterior all week.  It was not a pretty or pleasant-smelling fashion moment!

Sharing in my back pain, literally, was sister Julie, who was also experiencing the same ailment.  Perhaps we had a "twin" sister bond, and my pain was her pain.  We traded texts regarding our agony, home remedies, and of course plenty of whining.

Today brought a return to work, along with the ability to shave (more aptly described as weed whacking) my legs once again, which had been ignored for a week because bending over was out of the question.  My back is much better but my cold is still hanging on.  In fact, the cough has intensified, including the old "wet your pants when you hack" syndrome. The highlight for today was performing sexual harassment avoidance training in a packed room when you aren't sure if the room was uncomfortable due to the topic or because the participants could smell the perfume of urine and cough drops exuding from my being.  The end of the day couldn't come fast enough!!

Here's to another workweek ending tomorrow and my aches and pains disappearing very soon!!!

Monday Once Again

When Christmas is a Mixed Blessing

It's apparent with all the commercials, store décor, and tales of Black Friday that Christmas is coming.  Instead of feeling uplifted, wandering through the aisles upon aisles of holiday décor make me feel.....depressed.  Christmas brings to mind thoughts of childhood and memories that we are unable to repeat.  That spirited, believe-in-anything frame of mind inherent to children is now gone, replaced by a jaded sense of commercialism and bittersweet thoughts of family who are no longer with us either by death or by choice.  Both my mother and grandmother passed away in December 1996 and the upcoming month can't help but remind me of wonderful memories but also the absence in my life of these beloved matriarchs.  My children are now grown, maturing beyond the magical wonder of the holiday, happy simply with a wad of cash as opposed to stuffed animals, action figures, and sugar cookies.

How does one recapture the magic of Christmas?  Perhaps by simply reflecting upon memories of the past, shuffling through the photo albums, praying and breathing can you enhance the holiday season.  Instead of making the day bigger and better, you can make it smaller and cozier, intimate enough that it becomes special once again.  Give to those in need when it's least expected rather than giving by obligation only.  Express appreciation.  Say thank you.  Smile.  And revel in the blessings God has bestowed upon you in the last year.  Replacing the Christmas blues with a thankful heart may just be the ticket to recapturing the holiday magic.

Just Sayin....

A Weekend of Indulgence, Forgiveness, and Funky

Michael and I spent another wonderful weekend together, this time enjoying the free night's stay and dinner at Quinault Beach Resort.  We arrived early and luck was on our side when we were able to check in at 11am rather than 3pm.  The room was similar to the suite we previously had, just smaller.  It also included a beach view and fireplace so we had no complaints.  We gambled, took a soothing nap, gambled some more, then made our way to Emily's for dinner.  The certificate was worth $100 so we planned to put the feed bags on.  Appetizer of crab cakes, dinner of steak, then dessert to go (along with good size portions of our dinner - we were stuffed after the crab cakes, soup and salad!)

Sunday morning Michael indulged me by getting up with me at 4am so we could sneak downstairs to gamble while the casino was relatively empty.  And indeed it was empty....only a few gamblers along with a crew removing the cash banks from each slot machines.  The machines seem to pay better when only few are used....I ended up scoring a tidy sum before making our way back to our room.  My poor Michael was so tired; he ended up going back to sleep while I read the paper and watched Moonstruck on HBO. 

On a side note, my man does so much for me, asking nothing in return; unfortunately, there are times when I don't return the favor, instead focusing solely on what I want.  That happened a few times this past weekend and for that I apologize.  When two people are so close you sometimes take each other for granted or hurt your partner without even realizing it.  I'm glad Michael has been blessed with a wonderful ability to not only communicate but forgive his woman when she hurts his feelings.

Arriving home, we hit the hay for a long nap.  It had already been a very long day but by the time The Walking Dead came on at 6pm, I was up and ready to watch.

Monday was a vacation day for me; after bidding goodbye to my Michael, my first stop was the hairdresser.  My hair was getting shaggy and straggly and needed some shaping up.  One of the hairstyles, which I actually sported in the late '80s, was an asymmetrical cut.  Browsing Pinterest, there were many cute examples; the rebel in me came out and I decided "why not?"

After finishing my cut, at first I had hairstyle remorse...what had I done?  Is this cute, chic, and in?  Or was this a big mistake that may lead to the ultimate pixie on my head to fix the damage.  After making a pitstop at Sally's Beauty Supply, I arrived home and streaked my hair with a high dose of blonde.  Hey, if I'm going to go funky, I'm going to go all the way!  Washing, drying, and straight ironing my hair gave me a sigh of relief that all would be right in the world.  It's unusual yet chic, blonde yet tasteful, and topped with a sense of humor.  What's not to love??!!

Inspiration

Ta Da! Top looks really dark but that's from the camera, not me!

Inspiration

TGIF!!

Here's to a great weekend!  Michael and I will be enjoying my free stay with dinner at Quinault on Saturday.  I always pack too much but in the end it's fun to get away!!

Big Wednesday Yawn

This time change is killing me!  Nothing like waking up at 4am the last few days.  The early bird gets the worm and all that but it sure makes me tired at the end of the day!  Also, the end of the work day arrives and I'm driving home in the dark. 

One nice thing that has occurred is Sam has taken up cooking.  Whether it's because he enjoys it or is simply trying to butter me up because he hasn't found a job, he's been making dinner the last few nights.  Monday was Korean barbecue stir fry and last night was stuffed hamburgers.  Son Jordan has returned to the roost so he has been pitching in with laundry. 

Happy Hump Day everyone!!!

Happy 50th Birthday Diva Lynn!!

Happy 50th Birthday today to Diva Lynn!!!!  It's a celebratory day but it also means I'm one step closer to turning 50 myself in January!!!!   Enjoy your day!!!

Before is Always So Sad!!

"Oh honey, you look great without makeup.  I just don't understand why you wear it."  So are the words I've heard from my man.  In order to prove my point, as well as to justify my extensive cosmetic and hair product collection, I texted him these pictures yesterday morning.  Don't tell me makeup doesn't make a difference (although a smile also works in everyone's favor!)

                                                                                                    

During

Before

After


 

Counting Down to the Weekend!

Monday again....but at least waking up wasn't so painful due to the time change.  This weekend was spent apart from my beau, who is trying to shake off an illness before we set out for our next adventure this coming Saturday.  We will be using my free stay and dinner at Quinault Beach Resort so we need him in tip top shape to make that trip.  However, I couldn't help myself so I surprised my Michael on Saturday to deliver him a sick basket filled with necessities such as 7-Up, crackers, warm pajama pants, and a DVD.  It's no fun being sick and I was happy to hear he felt much better Sunday.

Yesterday after cleaning my room (which actually means hanging up a ton of clean clothes...ugh), my next trip was to Ross for some browsing along with Fred Meyers to pick up a few groceries.  In addition, because my car had been sporting a big patch of white bird doo-doo on the driver side door, it took a spin through the car wash. 

Beef Bourguignon was on the menu for dinner last night; however, after so much running around, my head hit the couch and I was out for an hour nap.  There's nothing worse than waking up drooling and feeling groggy to take the gourmet chef out of someone.  To that end, dinner would up being a packet of  instant Uncle Ben's wild rice.

Time to hop in the shower and get ready to start my day.  Here's to a great week everyone!!! 

Getting Serious About Sirius

Renewed my Sirius satellite radio about a month or so ago as I couldn't pass up the $25 for six months option.  I used to listen to Cosmo Radio, especially when Dr. Jen Berman was on, answering all sorts of love, sex, and relationship questions.  Unfortunately, Cosmo Radio was recently pulled so this has involved my scanning of other radio stations in order to find my listening groove.

There is one radio station that is titled Radio Sex; no, I didn't purposely seek this station, out, just stumbled upon it as it was close to Cosmo Radio.  The shows on this station are beyond raunchy!  Clicking on this station at 7am and hearing female hosts moaning while a male caller narrates some sexual fantasy gives me graphic visions I simply do not want to endure for the rest of my day. 

Instead of Dr. Jen, on the Stars network there is now Dr. Laura.  This woman is so filled with hate, judgment, and vitriol that it turns my stomach.  Does this make me stop listening?  No, because it is indeed entertaining.  However, the way she answers questions just floors me.  You are having a problem with your child in daycare?  It's all your fault, you should be at home with your child, not working you -single mom!  Not getting along with your live-in boyfriend?  It's because you are an unpaid whore, you trampy slut.  The other day before spouting off her right-wing beliefs, she tried to read a military story, frequently interrupting to state "oh, my tears are flowing....I need some tissue" and "I don't know if I'll be able to get through this heartbreaking story."  Nice fake tears, Dr. Laura. 


The newest station on my listen-to list is Martha Stewart.  Lots of good home and gardening info.  The other day she was describing how she lays out color-coordinated towels on all of her furniture in order to keep the animal hair off her couches and chairs.  She then described all these animals she owns (which are apparently welcome in the house) along with 26 birds she keeps in the kitchen.  Twenty-six birds!!!  She espoused how she keeps a towel underneath the bird cage in order to catch the bird seed and droppings.  Ugh!  All of that in her kitchen!!  Finally, despite her proclamations of perfections, she has a habit that is simply disgusting and not at all admirable. 

The best stations are Heart & Soul as well as Soul Town, which are the two my Michael and I listen to when we are on our road trips.  No narrated sex scenes, no name-calling, just simple love songs and R&B to make our drive enjoyable.

Happy Birthday Mom!

Good Fairy and Goblins

Another Halloween has come and gone.  There was a potluck at work to celebrate, so my dish was "finger cookies"....meaning actual fingers.  Well, shortbread fingers colored a ghoulish purple, smudged with red frosting, and capped off with an almond fingernail.  Not only were they apropos for the day but darn tasty as well!

In the spirit of the day, I just couldn't resist putting my costume on to have some fun.  This year, after piecing together a sequined dress, Goodwill gown, white gloves, and crown, my transformation into the Fairy Godmother was complete.  The piece de resistance was a Cinderella wand picked up from Target, which lit up and  made a lilting "bling" when the button was pushed.  I was in my element driving my co-workers crazy with that noisy little wand!

Arriving home, the trick or treaters began arriving around 5:30.  Michael kept me company as I passed out goodies to the kids.  It's odd the new habits children now have.....some wanted to put their hands in the bowl themselves; some asked for the candy they liked, rather than receiving what was given; several kids as well as parents had extra bags for "the child at home"; and, after being given candy, some even stood there and looked at me as if to say "hey, that wasn't enough....give me more!"  Although the weather was nice, there weren't as many trick or treaters as last year.  Around 8:30 the crowd died down, we turned off the porch light, and went to bed.

Me and my wand!

Feeling Twilight Zone

Yesterday on my commute home from work my mind was wandering.  For some reason I was thinking about the art award that Sam received as a senior.   He wasn't at the award presentation so I wondered if he ever picked it up and if so, where had he put it.  I had never seen the award so I put in the back of my mind that I wanted to ask him about it.

The art award was forgotten when I arrived home.  During dinner we decided to watch The Conjuring, a creepy possession film that was new to On Demand.  It was based on a true story and kept our attention.  Lots of unsettled ghosts, demonic spirits, and house possession.

After the movie, I got up to take my dinner dish to the kitchen.  I looked down at the side table and saw a small box with a gold object in it.  I picked it up and asked Sam what it was.  He said "Oh, I was looking for something in the closet today and found that in my backpack.  It's my art award."

Okay, that moment was seriously disturbing!  Especially after watching the movie!  Just too much of a coincidence!!!

Monday Once Again

After missing two days of work due to being ill, the weekend finished off with family fun.  Saturday night Michael and I had dinner with Arlene then met up again at her house Sunday morning to see sister Julie for muffins, fruit and coffee. 

Along with catching up, we also fit time in to allow Sam to get his driver's license.  He hadn't driven in quite some time but he passed the written and driving (now performed at a local driving school) and is now a card-carrying member of adulthood.  Next step - find a job!!

Last night the finale of our weekend was Michael, Sam and I pulling together as a team to install two new handrails to the stairs.  It's always those seemingly simple projects that turn into never ending tasks but we got 'er done!!

Have a great week Divas!!

Breakfast was yummy!

Sisterly Love!!!

Beware - TMI Coming Your Way!!!

It’s a delicate subject but one that’s been a part of my life so here goes.  My period.  Ugh.  I’m knocking on 50’s door and the damn thing has not gone away yet!  What used to last five to seven days now sneaks up me on Day 1, teasing me with its appearance so my only guess (or hope) is that it won’t arrive.  Then on Day 2 it’s Hello Dolly – rushing in as if I was Carrie being dumped upon with a bucket of, well, you know what. 

Unfortunately, Day 2 arrived last Saturday when Michael and I made a journey to Spirit Mountain Casino.  Arriving at the lodge, I bolted from the car, leaving Michael in the dust as I made my way to the nearest restroom.  It was almost like being nine months pregnant when every hour upon the hour involved a bathroom break.  Thankfully, I was wearing dark jeans so evidence of Aunt Flo and her wreckage upon my clothing was not visible.  So much for feeling clean and refreshed!  The rest of the day involved playing slot machines; each time the machine heated up, it was time for another pit stop at the toilet.  Arrrggg.  On top of that, my emotions were running high – I almost burst into tears when I came out of the bathroom and saw Michael waiting for me. 

The highlight of the day was that night when I was startled from a Midol-induced coma in order to make a mad dash to the bathroom to stop the floodgates.  Returning to bed, there lay the tell-tale spots of my predicament.  Ugh.  My saving grace was how understanding and comforting my man is during my times of both embarrassment and shame. 

Thankfully, Day 3 is a downhill ride to normal, although Sunday arrived with a headache that bordered on migraine proportions.  Monday and Day 4 arrived with a lingering headache but my monthly predicament was almost gone.  Now that Day 5 has arrived, all has returned to normal. 

Mother Nature, the time has come to take pity on me and give me an early birthday present of no more visits from Aunt Flo!!  My emotions can’t take it, my clothing can’t take it, and I’m running out of “period” underwear!!!

 

 

Clearing Out the Closets!

Now that my oldest son is living elsewhere, this has left an empty bedroom in the house, which I’ve been conveniently ignoring.  Perhaps there was a twinge of longing for son Jordan to return home; however, I conceded to fate and finally the time arrived for action to be taken to solidify my child’s departure from my home.

A few weekends ago Michael bagged up Jordan’s clothing and cleared out a few other items in his room.  Our first thought was to use it as a spare bedroom along with my own personal closet, freeing up space in my bedroom.  That idea was dashed when Sam moved his belongings into Jordan’s old room.  We still ended up with a spare bedroom but now this one is filled with both boys’ castoffs.

This past weekend Michael and I emptied out the closet in the spare room and piled up the extra items and bed against two walls.  We then moved all my clothing (including five bags of apparel given to me by co-worker Kim) and my shoes into the spare room so I could begin using it as my dressing room.  It’s a bit of a wreck at the moment; however, last night I proceeded to clean out all of my clothes, tossing in a pile the items I don’t wear, won’t wear, are too big, are too small, outdated or simply ugly.  It’s a very hefty pile!  And I didn’t even begin on my shoes yet! 

Yeah, a clothes pile like this!

Last night I also tried on donated tops and shirts in order to determine what to keep and what to include in the donation pile.  Crisp white shirts, brightly colored tanks, and sparkly tops flatter my figure; peasant tops, small waist/large hip pants, and beige clothing quickly went into the “not for me” pile.

Along with sorting, I also organized my new closet from one end to the next.  Pants, skirts, tanks, cardigans, sweaters, tops, and finally dresses all hung in a line.  Alas, one closet wasn’t enough so the logo work wear, outside jackets, and party attire were returned to my bedroom closet, tucked into a corner. 

 Also over the weekend Michael and I moved the dresser, with TV on top, into the closet, which has definitely made the bedroom more spacious.  Sam was volunteered into bagging up the extra clothes today and taking them to the garage.  Tonight I look forward to organizing my shoes in hopes that I can easily find each matching pair when I get dressed in the morning.  My vision is to soon have this spare bedroom/Diva dressing room organized and repainted in the near future.  It may not be a closet in the style of Mariah Carey, but it will work for me!

 

 

 

Sooo Familiar!!!

I went through this last night! Stopped at Walmart for groceries and the trip seemed to go on and on and on. It's funny how you are most tired when you show up to the register to pay then you have to unload the basket, load the basket, unload to the car, then unload at home. Ugh!! Thankfully Sam does the unloading and the putting away at home!!

 

Beach Trip Getaway

We love the beach, which explains Michael and my weekend trip to Ocean Shores over this last weekend.  The weather was absolutely gorgeous!   Highlights included: 

·         Return trip to Alec’s for their mouthwatering clam strips;

·         North Shore restaurant next to the Ramada Inn which, although it smelled a wee bit odd, had excellent food;

·         The chrome-wrapped Cadillac in the hotel parking lot that Michael tried to jack;

·         The car show at the Quinault Beach Resort and the bargain $5 shirt from last year’s show;

·         Gambling at the casino – Lady Luck definitely smiled on us this trip;

·         Hearing my name announced over the casino loudspeaker when I won a one-night stay with dinner for two at the resort.  You’ve never seen a person cash out so quickly on a slot machine and book it to the service counter;

·         Hopping a ride on the free shuttle to the casino and back;

·         Warm white chocolate macadamia nut cookies at our hotel at night;

·         Taking off my makeup and settling in for bed Saturday night before deciding on second thought to continue our winning streak, hopping out of bed, and catching the shuttle back to the casino;

·         The shuttle ride home Saturday night, which made us rethink our return trip to the casino.  After everyone piled into the shuttle and the door was shut, the idiot driver announced “We need to make a side trip so hang on everyone.”  We then took a 15-minute trip to the boonies, entering a trailer/RV park called Ocean City Resort.  And a resort it was not.  It was dark, it was on a gravel/dirt road, and we began to fear for our safety!  Finally, we saw two oakies waiting for the shuttle and the driver picked them up.  He then announced that, since they had been waiting for so long, he had to drop them off at the casino before he could take us to our hotels.  Grrrrr…..we were not happy campers!!  Dropping the two off, he then picked up another group of riders, including some camo Duck Dynasty types who reeked of B.O.   I held my breath, just waiting for some redneck to make a racist joke.  For their sake, they held back because I pity the fool who plays verbal karate with my man as they are sure to lose!

·         Being greeted outside our hotel Sunday morning by a family of four deer munching on the grass for breakfast;

·         Hitting the casino once more before our drive home.  My little fingers were on fire so it was a nice visit before we left Ocean Shores.

·        The overload of romantic gestures my Michael displays for me – he sings love songs to me, both standard and ones he has created, he caters to (almost) all of my whims, he protects me and watches out for me during times when we are stuck in a shuttle in a scary trailer park, and he loves me unconditionally.  It was another memorable weekend with my love and I can't wait to use our free night stay in the near future!!

Cracker Abundance

Last Thursday at work there a cracker company in our conference center.  At the end of the day, they left a ton, and I mean a ton, of name-brand crackers and cookies for the taking.  Well, being the bargain queen that I am, I rushed to the conference area and picked up a large assortment of free crackers, thin chips, pie crust, and animal crackers.  We are now stocked to the brim until perhaps 2018 with cracker abundance!

Creative Way to Say Goodbye!

Hats off to this gal who quit using this medium. Nice way to exit!!!

Mish Mash for Blog

The last week has been a mish-mash of this and that bundled all together in no time or inclination for me to write on my blog.   Thoughts that come to mind:

Peach and Maroon Eye Shadow – I save a lot of makeup ideas on my phone; here’s my newest idea, which I’ve loved. 

 

L'Oreal Liquid Pencil - I’ve also been using both the brown and black L'Oréal Paris Extra-Intense Liquid Pencil Eyeliner.  It’s awesome and stays in place all day. 

Bandanna Headbands – At the airport to and from my way to Kansas City, I saw a ton of girls with their hair up with a bandanna wrapped around their heads. So cute but, with short hair, not in my future!

Shellac Nail Polish – the last few times at the nail salon my choice for polish was the Shellac gel for stronger nails.  This usually runs around $25; instead of paying for that, I picked up a Sensationail kit the other day so I could paint and LED my own nails.  So far so good but my bad habit of peeling off the old polish needs to stop!!

Breaking Bad – Son Sam roped me into watching a few of these episodes and I was hooked!  We watched the finale together (along with Michael, whom I roped into watching….must be a contagious trait) and now I want the entire five seasons on DVD for Christmas!!

Rain – The rain comes, it goes, the sun comes, deluge of rain comes…..enough already!  Michael and I were on our way back from Portland the other day and stopped at the Woodland Walmart.  Paying at the register, we then heard a tremendous, downpour of rain outside.  The floodgates had opened!  We hightailed it to the car but were still soaking wet.  From now on when it rains, we’ll ask each other if it was of “Woodland Walmart” levels.

 
October – October is here tomorrow!!  Where did the year go?  Christmas is right around the corner!!

Weight – Ugh.  I was doing so well but over the summer fell off the wagon so now I need to get back on track to lose my unwanted pounds.  Today I brought my better pair of walking shoes to work; didn’t use them yet but they will stare me in the face until I do!  I’m back to eating oatmeal with blueberries in the morning and soup for lunch.  And I turned down pizza today!  Veggie sandwiches, tracking my food, and a serious reduction of sugar will now be back in my life!!!

 

Here's to making it a great week!!!

 

 

Goodbye Seattle, Hello Fife!

Today was our last day in Seattle.  We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast at Sizerac, the hotel restaurant.  We've eaten two meals there along with room service; each and every one has been absolutely fantastic.

The service at the hotel has been equally par to none.  For example, we fell in love with the blue cups we used this morning for coffee.  We asked the front desk clerk if they were available for sale.  He said he actually had a couple extra so he gave them to us at no charge!  Quite the nice surprise.  Along with 100% top quality service, I would definitely recommend Hotel Monaco to anyone who is visiting in the Seattle area.

Checking out, we then drove 30 minutes to our next stop, the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma.  The gambling gods were not so good to me but we did spend about three hours testing our luck.  Done chasing lady luck, we found our hotel in Fife, checked in, ate lunch and now I've just woken from an afternoon nap.  Ahhhh, this is what vacations are about.

I'm not sure what this evening will bring, but the amount of laughter, adventure, and R&R we've experienced have made some pretty good memories so far!