idle random thoughts

Missing?

2012-01-22T18:23:00.004-06:00

Anyone that checks here regularly (does anyone check regularly?) might wonder where I've been...if I fell off the face of the earth. Have no fear, I'm still around. Been busier than a one-armed paper-hanger and in downtime too lazy to post. I'll try to change that bad habit.

Let's see, to recap......
Christmas came and went-nothing exciting to write home about.

Spent the time off with the honey and helping him job hunt--filling out paperwork, etc.

Actually cleaned out my closet somewhat--there is now actually room to hang things without being jammed in. Gave quite a few things to M and donated other to shelter (thanks to the honey for hauling it).

Did some purging in the 'studio' and took a trunk full to Na--still more to be done but I can actually see the spare bed (Sissy now has plenty of room to strech out) and I can walk in without tripping over piles--the honey can get to the computer much easier.

Been swamped since returning to work with the normal start of the year/semester overload with the added addition of doing the another's job the past few weeks.
Managed to get in some time with the Lunch Bunch to celebrate an engagement-not mine.

Looking forward to the annual Galveston weekend next weekend. Always fun to spend time with friends and see The Boys.

The honey starts trucking school tomorrow.

Broke out the sewing machine which died mid-project. After a week of lamenting and some searching I finally found a machine that met my standards that I can see myself using for the next 20 plus years (that's about how long the last one was around) and now I have a shiny new toy.

Welcome 2012

2012-01-01T13:03:00.002-06:00

It's been ages since I've blogged. Wish I had a good excuse but I really don't. The truth is I've been busy with different things or just lazy--probably more lazy than anything.

It's been a fairly quiet holiday around here. The weather has just been plain weird-hot, cold, hot, cool, hot, humid; you get the idea. It just didn't really feel like Christmas or the holidays. To that end, I had the tree down and Christmas decor put away before the clock struck midnight entering the new year. And the honey decided to head to the lease on Friday so I'm flying solo. No one to kiss at midnight but the upside is the ability to (try to) accomplish things without disturbing another.

I have managed to do a big purge on my closet--still need to go through socks, shoes and the dressers. My next project is to tackle the studio/spare bedroom sometime today--when I finally get off my lazy can. What a surprise for the honey to return to a clean, functional work/creative space. He would be quite surprised since I've been 'threatening' for some time!

Keeping with my usualy format, I've not really made any resolutions but I've not thought too terribly hard on 'goals'. I have a few things rattling around my head but just not quite able to 'commit' at the moment. In my own time I guess. And I haven't decided on my One Little Word for 2012 either. Nothing has really 'spoken' to me and thus I procrastinate --as usual. Hmmm, maybe THAT should have been my word for 2011 since I seem to have mastered it quite well! HA.

So after an uneventful night and a very leisurely morning it's time for me to embark on something productive--it would be nice to actually acccomplish 'something' today. More later......enjoy the first day of 2012 and make it count in your own way!

Turkey Day

2011-11-27T15:49:00.003-06:00

I fixed a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with one small adjustment-cornish game hens instead of a turkey or turkey breast. They actually turned out rather well though it will take more practice to 'master'. Portion wise they were perfect and no leftover turkey for days on end! Yep, my new holiday tradition.

Small Victories

2011-11-27T15:44:00.002-06:00

While I have visions of having a completely organized homespace that is just not my reality. I have however managed to achieve a few small victories. The cleared off workspace--so now the honey can use the computer with ease after the obstacle course of getting to it. My dining room is more organized than it's been in some time--I can see the top of my bar and my Christmas tree is up! Yep, little victories.

Determined...

2011-11-21T16:38:00.002-06:00

to make order of this caos....

I've been off since Friday at 5p and I have basically wasted nearly three days. I say nearly three because it's still day three--but nearly 5pm. I have run some (local) errands today and did a little um, nothing and now--yes at nearly 5p--I dig into the task at hand. Clean this space--make it pretty and functional. Wish me luck! (Here's hoping the 'after' pictures are able to be posted sooner rather than later.)

Walk 2011

2011-11-14T05:59:00.005-06:00

It's all over but the thank yous....and the decision about next year.....committee or no committee-depends on my girls......

A Year.....already?

2011-11-03T21:08:00.002-05:00

This weekend marks a year since the honey and I hiked up Enchanted Rock...ok, more like he pushed me up Enchanted Rock. It was a great weekend and a beautiful Sunday morning....and the first time he told me he loved me.

We talk often of a trip back....our schedules have just been so crazy there's not been time. He's had to work quite a few weekends and hasn't even gotten to hunt once---bow season opened October 1, and he spent that weekend with me celebrating my birthday. He's put in well over 40 hours every week since. Gun season opens this weekend and again he won't be huning. At least this weekend he doesn't have to work. He's looking forward to doing things he wants and then hanging out with me.

If all goes according to plan, he'll be here the 15th to head down to Lake Texana to hunt. After that Thanksgiving will be here and plans are to hea to the lease.

The days are just flying by......

Sunday Stroll

2011-10-23T20:33:00.004-05:00

For once this month, the weekend agenda wasn't jam packed. Saturday was spent relaxing at home--granted there were things that needed attention and places I should have gone but I didn't do any of it. It was nice just hanging at home, watching old television (Designing Women reruns and other assorted things). The honey arrived and the agenda consisted of taking it easy. Seriously, the most strenous thing I did was cook dinner.

Sunday was wide open and I was perfectly content to hang at home with the honey lounging on the couch and watching football. He suggested poking around the antique shops in Rosenberg so off we went. It was fun seeind some of the old things I actually grew up with--and astonishing to see some of the prices....if I had all that old stuff! The honey loved looking at all the old tools. We had a yummy bite to eat at Another Time Soda Fountain and then headed for home and spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing.

What Happened to October??

2011-10-22T09:08:00.002-05:00

Seriously-where'd it go? Wasn't it just the first of the month?--my birthday, TASFAA. It's been jam packed and it's already the 22nd! I still have many things to accomplish by month's end.....guess I need to organize and prioratize better.

Here's a shot from Discovery Camp last weekend:

Heard a Rumor.....

2011-10-17T07:59:00.001-05:00

Heard a 'rumor' on the news last night that fall might actually show up this week....I sure hope so! I miss it.

MS Family Discovery Camp

2011-10-17T07:39:00.003-05:00

The annual MS Family Discover Camp was held this past weekend at Camp For All in beautiful Burton, Texas. Friday afternoon I slipped out of the office a bit early and drove out to the country for the weekend adventure. I took only a handful of pictures this time as I was focused on the tasks I was to perform (helping with arts and crafts) and getting to meet and mingle with others living with MS. No zip line for me this time--I was kept rather busy with my assigned task and that was just fine.

SCORE!

2011-10-17T07:29:00.002-05:00

For this year's state conference we were given an opportunity to sign up for text message updates so when I recived the initial email I thought what the heck and did it. Once the conference began and pitches were made to get everyone to sign up I heard apparently what I'd failed to read in the original email--sigh up for text message alerts and the chance to win an Ipod Touch. Thursday evening while enjoying the company of colleagues over food and music I received a text informing me I had won! A week later a shiny new Ipod was delivered to me at the office. Now I need to find a ten year old to teach me how to use it!

8 Years Later....

2011-10-10T21:37:00.002-05:00

I miss you mom.....

Jackie Marie Shadden Ribnikar 7/6/22-10/11/03

Whirlwind...

2011-10-09T18:57:00.004-05:00

That is pretty much how I would describe the last week....worked Monday then pulled out Tuesday for TASFAA in Arlington-college roadtrip:

Celebrated my birthday on the road with colleagues/friends and then dinner with big bro and sis-in-law

Next up three days of Department of Education sessions loaded with enough information to make my brain want to implode.

Turn around twice and Saturday went racing by with a trip to the Sugar Land Farmers Market and lunch with the girls.

In the blink of an eye Sunday races by, consumed by a roadtrip (to Kingwood) to see the Oaks at Cracker Barrel (don't laugh, I've done crazier stuff---and no the honey didn't go)

And suddenly it's Sunday day with nothing (or very little) accomplished...it's going to be another whirlwind week with work and various things needing attention, Painting With a Twist on Thursday night and then MS Camp next weekend and suddenly October is half over....

You Help is Needed......

2011-09-26T20:34:00.003-05:00

Sadly, Caitlin's body couldn't take any more and in the early hours of the morning she slipped away leaving a loving family and friends in grief. Though she's gone the need for this family remains...please help in any way you can.

Happy Birthday to Me (early)...

2011-09-26T06:02:00.002-05:00

I'd forgotten HSN has a 24 craft day scheduled today but I 'found' it while flipping channels this morning--because I was determined to not go back to sleep after the honey left. First I see Sandi Genovese hawking an 'exclusive' by her that frankly while cute, it's pretty basic and I could do myself. Next was Margie Aslett Romney for Bazzill selling adhesive--who know Bazzill did adhesive and I somehow doubt it's truly any different from tombow, hermafix, etc. And then.....there it was....the Wacom photo editing tablet.....on flex pay and with Photoshop Elements. It only took a split second before I was reaching for the phone and my wallet......and then my 'justification' of my birthday being just around the corner! So, Happy Birthday to me! The last time I got myself a cool birthday gift was 2009 when I ordered my personalized engraved orange Ipod.

Benefit.....

2011-09-23T18:50:00.003-05:00

My heart is breaking for this young lady and her family. Her father was a classmate as far back as elementary school. Hospice has stated her days are few and arrangements are to be made sooner rather than later. Please send up a prayer for this family during this difficult time. If you're in or around the Houston/Spring area please try to attend this event.

Bazinga

2011-09-22T18:09:00.000-05:00

Me and My Good Intentions....

2011-09-21T19:48:00.002-05:00

....and we all know what they say about intentions......if you don't well, the thought is that intentions is what paves the road to hell........

So anyway....as usual, my mind is going a hundred miles a minute with things to be done, things I want to do and things that quite frankly I'm just too lazy to do! I do however feel that in the grand scheme of things that what really needs attention gets it (eventually) and regardless what does or does not get 'done' I am LIVING. Afterall, THAT is what really matters!

Which brings me to the proverbial 'one day'. You know what I'm talking about....that 'one day' list we all have....One Day...I'll use that piece of gorgeous paper I just HAD to have....one day I'll wear that special outfit....one day I'll use the good china just because.....even the simple one day I'll catch up on my projects.....so in the spirit of 'one day'....I challenge YOU to DO something on your 'One Day' list. It can be simple, it can be complex. The point is to just do it!

....no real reason for the fountain picture....just thought a picture would be nice...

September 19, Really? Already???

2011-09-19T17:35:00.003-05:00

I blinked and suddenly the month of September is two-thirds gone. Nothing earth shattering has been happening but I do admit have been getting some rest, taking advantage of some downtime. I spent the weekend doing a lot of nothing....and then took today off to do some more (nothing that is though I did get out for a bit).

This is what Sunday afternoon looked like around my place:

think I might need to scrap these.....

Breakfast with Sissy

2011-09-05T09:42:00.006-05:00

Since fall is on it's way (ok so it's not been a million degrees the last day or so) I am in the mood for a morning cup or two of coffee. Feeling my favorite time of year--fall--coming around. And as I sip my coffee, Sissy dines...

While hosting Lucy (best buds doggie) one weekend, Sissy discovered 'wet food'. I could never get her to eat anything other than dry. While Lucy was hanging out with me and the honey I heard a noise, looked over and saw Sissy chowing down on Lucy's Benefal (wet) dog food. After that every once in a while I would buy some Benefal and give it to Sissy. Eventually I decided to pick up some Meow Mix wet cat food to see if she would eat that. Now she practically begs for it--as much as that little diva will beg. So my low maintenace, once-a-month dry cat food purchase is no more and now I'm buying the expensive-quite possibly yummy at least to Sissy yet disgusting in appearance to me-cat food weekly. But it's hard to deny that face.

Scrappy Girl Sunday

2011-09-04T17:26:00.007-05:00

I had the grand idea of doing some major purging/organizing this weekend....kinda like the fall version of spring cleaning. Getting rid of the things that just take up space, that are never used, never worn, etc. You get the idea. But really,what fun is that?

So instead, I decided to play with paper. I really liked Shimelle's Explore class--even if I didn't exactly keep up. When I saw she has a daily class for September titled 'Learn Something New Everyday' I couldn't resist signing up. My first thought was this would be a great compliment to my Annual Birthday Album. Still not certain if I'm going to incoporate the two or do two separate albums--why yes, I am nuts. I have however stated my LSNE album and I am 'up-to-date'--but it is only the 4th!

As I worked Sissy is near as usual....only this time she is a bit more near than usual. Instead of taking up her normal spot in the corner below the window or on the window sill, she has decided to settle in just under my feet. Silly cat...

Welcome September!!!

2011-09-04T09:16:00.002-05:00

So I'm a few days behind.....they were busy days and today is the first day I am taking time to slow down. Granted I could have done this yesterday morning-since I did get up at 3a with the honey when he left for the lease but I just relaxed and took it easy till I had to get going and then I ran/played all day.

After waking this morning I pondered what to tackle today--purge and organize? create? go shop for a few specific items? But first, breakfast. My initial intentions were to run to What-A-Burger and grab my go-to honey butter chicken biscuit but when I noted the (new) Denny's parking lot was not totally packed I acted on a whim and went there....

While awaiting my breakfast I had (minimum) time to savor a cup of coffee and think about the things I need and want to do...today, long term--you get the idea....

I must admit the service was great--just hope it remains that way. I had someone take my order right away and while she was getting my coffee I had another server try to help me! My cup never had a chance to get empty and I didn't have to want for anything (though I didn't need anything) because I was given plenty of attention. And breakfast was yummy--build your own grand slam with eggs, biscuit and gravy, hash browns and bacon...

On with the day!!

Thirty-one aka Carol is evil....

2011-08-28T15:08:00.001-05:00

Saturday afternoon I attended my first 'Thirty-one' party at Carol's. I honestly thought beforehand I would make a small purchase to support my friend because let's face it I really don't need another bag. Or do I?

So many cute things.....things I could not pass up. I loved the extendable bag that adds an extra five inches of space just by undoing a zipper. It appears this would be a great bag for my weekend getaways because frankly I am tired of trying to stuff everything into the bag I currently use. Still no guarantee I won't have a second (or third bag) but certainly raises the odds of not needing them.

So yes, after seeing the many cute bags and the many options not only did I purchase more than initially intended...I also am going to hold a book/online party. Still some things I want! Look for the link to my party coming soon in September!

Too Much Work...

2011-08-28T13:39:00.002-05:00

This gives a glimpse into my life this time of year. These two carts are filled with files of students appealing the suspension of their aid. Some have valid reason, most don't. Five times a year I spent up to a week prior to the appeal meeting processing appeal requests to take to committee.

34 Years...

2011-08-22T21:43:00.003-05:00

7/25/25-8/22/77

Dad's been gone 34 years today.....a lifetime ago.....I've lived longer without him than I did with him. I was daddy's girl and I still miss him.

I can still remember waking the morning of August 23. Something wasn't right. From my bedroom I could see into the living room. I could see the light was on--which was unusual for that time of morning. I could also see things that had been in daddy's hospital room. Confused I walked into the living room and then the kitchen where mom was getting a cup of coffee. I didn't expect her to be there as she'd been gone for days--staying at the hospital with daddy. I was happy to see her....and then I remember the words......we lost daddy last night. She hugged me and I just said okay, that I'd better get ready for school (it was only the second day of the my 5th grade year). I remember a bit later sitting in the kitchen floor at her feet, mom fixing my hair while talking to her cousin who had come by. She said I didn't have to go to school but I wanted to. I don't think I really understood what was going on.

Later in the morning at school I was sharpening a pencil and the teacher was asking who was on free lunch (something no one would dare ask out loud this day in age). I raised my hand because at the time I thought I was---in light of daddy being in the hospital a neigbor had arranged for me to have a lunch card so as far as I knew I was on the free lunch program (in hindsight for all I know the neighbor could have purchased it knowing our situation). Someone comment that I was not and could not be on free lunch and I just blurted out 'My daddy died last night'. I remember the teacher being shocked and I just kept right on with what I was doing as though I'd just casually mentioned the color of my socks or what day it was.

At lunch everything fell apart and I unraveled....all over some stupid ice cream. Even though I had a lunch card mom had managed to give me enough pocket change for a treat--to get sone ice cream with my lunch. The lunch lady seeing my lunch card took away the ice cream telling I could not have it because I was on 'free lunch'. She would not listen to me telling her I had money for the ice cream and even though I had it out for her she just kept saying I couldn't have it. I don't recall much after that but I know I went into full meltdown and someone put their are around me and took me to the nurse's office.

My brother picked me up and took me home. From there I just remember lots of people in and out and then trying to get on with life. I remember momma 'fighting' with the hospital because they couldn't locate daddy's wedding ring. I don't recall how long it took, but it was located and returned. I don't recall the timing but there was a memorial service for daddy

I didn't step foot in Hermann Hospital again untill 2008. I remember when the neurologist's nurse told me I'd be admitted to Hermann for the tests that ultimately resulted in my MS diagnosis; I immediately begain to cry uncontrollably.

It's 34 years later and I miss you daddy. I hope you are proud of the person I have become. I'm certain you would like my honey--I imagine you would be fishing and hunting together. He's taking care of daddy's girl.

Close to My Heart Cuteness

2011-08-15T14:18:00.001-05:00

I just adore Close to My Heart's August Stamp of the Month which is a set of Halloween stamps. This beauty just speaks to me and my CTMH buddy let me play with the stamps while I await mine. I couldn't resist stamping her and pairing it with papers from the Roxie kit to make a cute card for the honey.

Shop For A Cause

2011-08-15T14:13:00.002-05:00

$5 will get you a shopping pass to Macy's good for 25% off purchases on Saturday, August 27, 2011, good at all Macy's nationwide and online. Proceeds go to the Sugar Land MS Walk. Contact me if interested!

Explore

2011-07-25T22:12:00.001-05:00

Prompt 5

and to think...just a few hours ago these were simple, handmade embellishments hanging out in the jungle I call a scrap table...

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2011-07-25T19:50:00.000-05:00

7/25/25-8/22/77

My Own Little Episode of Hoarders...

2011-07-25T19:39:00.004-05:00

For some reason I am drawn to watching Hoarders be it on TLC or the Discovery Channel. If I'm surfing and I find Hoarders I stop and watch, mesmerized. I have the instant urge to begin throwing away EVERYTHING...I still have STUFF because I don't act on it--I'm too lazy for the follow-through. heehee Wait--that's why these hoarders have so much CRAP. The honey has promised if he feels I am becoming a hoarder he will stop it. So lucky to have him!

So THIS is what my drafting/scrap table looks like I am ashamed to admit....I clean and it stays that way--until I begin to create again....

And this would be my homemade embellishments from my Explore class. Now I just need to pull together items and assemble the page for prompt 5.

Looking at them today I'm thinking they're kinda cute. Thanks for the inspiration Shimelle!

Productive Saturday Morning...

2011-07-23T10:20:00.003-05:00

Got up-maybe a little earlier than initially anticipated--and immediately mixed up a cake (from scratch). Once it was in the oven I did some light cleaning and a load or two of laundry. By Ten a.m. I had a wonderful, from scratch cake cooled and ready to ice with homemade iciing....

The cake is for my honey to celebrate his birthday--which was Thursday. Planning to take him out to eat somewhere at some point this weekend. I'll give him the cute canvas I made (hope he likes it) and we'll have a relaxing weekend.

EXPLORE

2011-07-18T20:08:00.004-05:00

A cute, what looks to be inspiring class that I will be taking onnline for the next 4 weeks--like I don't have enough going on already.

Go to Shimelle.com if you're interested in checking it out....

Sunday Night Scrappin...

2011-07-17T21:40:00.002-05:00

It's been a relaxing Sunday...breakfast at Larry's--been a while since we'd been there and either I was really hungry or it was just really yummy today....HEB run....a mid-day nap and tv....a run to CVS to print some of mom's old pictures...a yummy fish dinner prepared by the honey....some evening scrap fun, a little more tv and bed.....Mondays come around too quickly......

How I Used An Afternoon of Vacation Time

2011-07-13T21:45:00.004-05:00

Took off at noon today (well closer to 1p by the time I got out of there...). Went home to create.......

The CKC class for which the kits did not arrive on time. Got the instructions and sat down to create....Yes, those are pictures of Les embeliished by flowers....the class was Prima's Get Your Grunge On boy mini album.........

CKC

2011-07-10T21:20:00.005-05:00

I decided this year that I would take full advatage of CKC being in Houston. I took a vacation day and booked a hotel. I check class listings and signed up for a couple. My thoughts were that this would be a nice mini vacation. I could relax, scrap and shop. Though my original plans were not to go solo it worked out that would be the case--no problem for me!

After finding a friend from high school would also be in attendance, we made plans to meet up and 'play' together at the crop Friday night. Initially I only had plans for two classes but after our Thursday night chat I decided to add a few more when I picked up my registration on Friday morning. I'm glad I made that decision because the extra classes proved to be the ones to get me thinking outside the box and sparked my creativitiy.

I signed up for a Prima 'grunge class' that was to be 'boy themed'--basically how to use all the Prima goodness (which is often frilly and flowery) to make a masculine album. It was my first class. Unfortunately, our class kits did not arrive and we had an instructor with no supplies. Fortunately she had enough kits from another scheduled Prima class (which I had just added) that we would do in class--while still getting our original class kit once it arrived the next morning--kinda like getting a class for free. Since I had signed up and paid for a class that I had now done the project the wonderful folks at CKC allowed me to change my class--so it was still like getting a class for free.

My final class on Friday evening was titiled I Love That Paper...from the desciptions I was thinking it would be about using the various beautiful patterned papers as backgrounds, etc. It turned out to be a class where we took some cute but funky paper and cut our various elements to put together a layout. I loved it! It got me thinking outside the box. It gave me a boost to unleash my creativity.

Summer Reading...

2011-07-10T21:08:00.002-05:00

While browsing Target I came across several books that grabbed my interest so naturally I had to get them. Now I have to read them! I have a habit of picking up books that appeal to me then putting them aside because I'm not really in the mood to read. The result: stacks of unread books. In an effort to keep that from happening with my lastest purchase I am determined to read these books by the end of July. So far, I have managed to finish one. If I manage at least a book a week I will be able to accomplish my goal. And maybe, just maybe I'll get back in the 'habit' of reading on a regular basis...

Happy 89th Mom....

2011-07-06T22:19:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday mom. You'll be glad to know I'm doing well. There have been a few little bumps but nothing to derail me. I've got a great guy in my life that you would love--he takes great care of me and says you don't have to worry about me being taken care of cause he has it covered (yeah, I told him about your big concern being me-how you said you worried about what would become of me...). You would probably really be loving him right now because he is a hunter and I have sausage in my freezer from a wild hog he killed---I remember you always commenting you'd like to have some good, wild hog.... I live by the things you taught me; to not wait around on others if there's something I want to do--I've shared that philosophy with others on many occassions. I can thank you for all the great adventures I've had and the courage I've had to do various things. I am proud to say when you left I did not stop living. So happy birthday mom--give daddy a big hug from me.....

Gettin "My Craft On" and other Sunday Adventures...

2011-07-03T22:16:00.003-05:00

After a bit of debate I decided to make a run into civilization to do a little shopping...and along the way I heard from my 'Jewish Mother' who proposed doing a little shopping together and grabbing lunch. It's been ages since we've gotten to visit so today was perfect! She picked me up in her new chariot just outside Macy's and off we went. Spent some time wandering Joann's and picked up a few goodies....then back to the mall and to wander Macy's and few other stores. After that we checked out Aaron Brother's Framing (I think that's the name---I could get in trouble there since they carry Tim Holtz and 7 Gypsies goodness). We topped it off with a yummy lunch at Panera and chatting and catching up. We really need to schedule that a bit more frequently...

I had talked about the honey's upcoming birthday and bounced ideas off Carol....and when I got home and began to play I continued to bounce ideas off her and came up with what I think is a cute canvas for his office---here are a few sneak peeks:

a fun tidbit...I picked up the bingo card on the first trip the honey took me on when we went through antique shops in Llano....

Project from HELL...

2011-07-02T10:38:00.002-05:00

I am ashamed to say this is my scrap closet.....I will say it no longer looks THIS bad. I was off half a day last week and decided to begin the process of purging and organizing. Tons to get rid of and much to organize. I long for an organized, accessible stash--hoping it will help foster my creativity (doesn't that sound fancy--lol). I had decent momentum and did manage to purge quite a bit but there is still much to go--here's hoping I can accomplish something this weekend....

Fort Worth Weekend...

2011-07-02T10:22:00.002-05:00

So last Saturday morning the honey and I loaded up and headed for Fort Worth--all for me because I had tickets to see the Oak Ridge Boys.....so off we went....along the way we stopped in Waco to check out Crop, Paper, Scissors--picked up a few things but overall wasn't all that impressed....

After a little blip we were finally able to get in our room at the downtown Sheraton--wish I could say I thoroughly enjoyed that hotel but I can't (that's a whole other story but let's just say my room charges ended up being reversed after a few calls to the management staff...)

We met family for dinner at my favorite Ft. Worth BBQ place-Ricskys....where we ate, drank and laughed--a good time for all...then a stroll (yes in the blazing heat and humidity) that included 'cowboys' singing on the corner.

The honey survived the show--while he was physically present I know mentally he was somewhere else cause that just wasn't his thing--yep, I owe him big time...

Sunday morning we were up and off to meet family again for a yummy Mexican breakfast near the Stockyards (drove the honey through) then home we went.A quick trip with a few bumps but full of good food and great company.

And believe it or not....I didn't take that many pictures! Kinda disappointing in hindsight but it'll be okay....

Creative Weekend

2011-06-21T20:51:00.003-05:00

One of the ladies I worked with at the MS camp last month is super cool and very creative. We decided before leaving camp we would get together to create sometime--lucky for me she lives in LaPorte. The stars seemed to have aligned just right and we managed to get together Saturday to create. I arriveed early evening on Saturday and we began to brainstorm. Plenty of creative toys around to play with...we stayed up late playng with paints and alcohol inks and other assorted items. It was relaxing to just hang out and let the supplies dictate where you went. Looking forward to our next creative time.....

Farewell By Design.....

2011-06-15T20:30:00.001-05:00

By Design Scrapbook Boutique....a favorite source of scrappin goodness for the past four years is shutting their doors. By Design has been the place to go for the newest, cutting edge products. I've been fortunate to take some wonderful classes from people like Tim Holtz, Heidi Swapp, Janet Hopkins and Debby Schuh thanks to Tracy. I'll miss her and the store and all the goodness.

My Jewish Mother....

2011-06-13T18:23:00.004-05:00

I have a dear friend who I refer to as my Jewish mother...always giving me an extra push when I need it, not sugar coating things. She's creative, snarky and funny and I love her dearly. She's having a bit of a time with some health issues and has recently been sentenced to massive doses of steroids. If you have a chance, pop over to her blog and leave her a word of two of encouragement.

Beer Fest revisited.....

2011-06-13T18:17:00.002-05:00

So apparently it was all over channel 11 what a mess the event was.....people being overcome by heat waiting to get in (no surprise there), people waiting in line over two hours to get in--and still not getting in, running out of beer.....seems we weren't the only ones who thought it was poorly planned. At least we had a nice night in a nice hotel and fun at Pete's!

Beer Fest and other stuff....

2011-06-12T19:40:00.007-05:00

The Houston Beer Festival was held Saturday downtown. I bought tickets weeks ago through Groupon for the honey as an early birthday gift and added a hotel room at the Doubletree (they were offering a special and this way we could both enjoy ourselves without the worry of getting home after). After a yummy homemade breakfast we headed downtown and checked in....and being the Doubletree we were greeted with warm chocolate chip cookies.....

We lounged a bit (since the festivities didn't begin till 2p) before heading over to city hall....and were greeted with....long lines.....no sinage......and we waited....and waited....and waited....

After nearly an hour and a half in line we were in the gates. We had a fistfull of tickets that could be used for tastes or full 12 ounce servings.....

As time passed the crowd began to grow which meant the lines for the beers began to grow.....we had been there a few hours....they honey was able to enjoy a few beers and had a couple that weren't so good. I sipped on iced tea and finally tried some Jeremiah Weed spiked cola. It was good but the combination of that, only my earlier breakfast in my stomack and the heat I felt it immediately. The lines were insane, the placed was packed to the point that moving was growing difficult and we decided to call it done. I don't think it's something we'll try again---unless they change the venue (at the very least....they had too much packed into too small of a space).

We wandered back to the hotel and after cooling down a bit and resting we walked over to the Houston Pavillions for dinner. There are a handfull of restuarants-most somewhat up-scale, but we settled for Guadalajara. We knew there would be a wait but the wait to be seated was minimal. It was the wait for our food that seemed to go on forever......the honey was NOT impressed.....I can't really say that I was either....

After dinner I was able to talk the honey into a vist to Pete's (Dueling) Piano Bar. I've been to Pete's in Austin on numerous occassions and always had a wonderful time and I hoped this adventure would prove to be fun as well. The honey had no idea what he was walking into but being a good sport he went. We grabbed a beer and then found a place to sit in the back. It wasn't quite 9p, but it was already rocking. It took a song or two but once he knew what was going on, the honey seemed to relax and enjoy himself. We sang....we danced....we had a good time. I think maybe Pete's redeemed me after the disappointment of the beer fest and dinner.....

Time Off.....

2011-06-10T19:15:00.002-05:00

I recentlly took a day off from work. No real planning....other than asking late in the day if I could take off the next day (gotta take my vacation time before the end of August of I lose it). So Tuesday near 5p the boss said yes to Wednesday off. So I took it!

No real plans, just burning a day. I thought I might go in.....maybe even just half a day. My body knew that morning when the alarm went off that I didn't really have to go in--so I slept a bit longer. I took my time waking up...getting up and getting started. I piddled......watched a little morning television (it was Meredith's last day on the Today show--not something I normally watch)....thought about catching a movie (a chick flick) then decided against it. Finally up and going I headed out for a little shopping.....a new outfit for the beer fest this weekend (finding that was luck!).....picked up essentials at Target (ya know, toilet paper, etc).....a run through Specs (why not!)...a quick (yummy) lunch at a place I'd never been (Chinese place in Rosenberg near Kroger)...then grocery shopping and home.

This is the fortune which accompanied my meal...

Feeling it today.....

2011-05-15T20:25:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend I had an opportunity to ride a zip line....and I did it. It's one of those things I watch others do and think it's cool but it isn't necessarily something I saw myself doing. And then came Saturday.....one of the other girls at the MS Camp Can Do was talking about the zip line and how wonderful it was...how you it's not as scary as you may think. Maybe I wasn't in my right mind--but when am I ever? I had a chance to break away from my scheduled duties with an opportunity to choose various activities during my break. I didn't really give it much thought-just headed out to the zip line. I didn't think about it...didn't think about the possibility of difficulty in climbing the tower....and didn't think of being scared spitless of 'jumping' off a tower---thought I didn't actually jump. I figured if I was ever going to do this I was certainly in the best environment for doing so...afterall, they work with people with all levels of mobility--there were people who use wheelchairs climbing that tower (granted, they had assistance but they were still climbing)! So without any deep thought I stepped up, got harnessed up and climbed the tower and rode the zip line down!

Weekend at camp...

2011-05-15T15:28:00.002-05:00

At 44 years old I have attended my first sleep-over camp. It was great! I spent the weekend as a volunteer at the MS Camp Can Do. This camp is for adults with MS and no matter the limitations of the person, they CAN participate in every activity--not just arts and crafts--though that is certainly an option (and the area where I will now be working during camp--yep, I will be back).

Horseback riding....canoeing....archery.....zip line (which I did!!). All offered (among other things) and all accessible to everyone whether walking, using a cane, wheelchair or scooter. Every camper gets a buddy and together, they are unstoppable!

Happy Mother's Day Mom....

2011-05-08T18:36:00.001-05:00

Has it really been a year already??

2011-04-30T19:35:00.004-05:00

Can hardly believe a year ago today I gathered with a handful of classmates to begin preparations for our 25 year high school reunion.

Tent set up for the 25 Year Reunion...

Those brave souls who worked to put it all together...the day before the event....

This how we looked 25 years later....
May 1, 2010

Quiet Weekend

2011-04-24T20:52:00.002-05:00

It's Sunday evening and I am trying to get in the 'right' mindset for going back to work tomorrow. I honestly was only in the office one day last week due to vacation time, workshops and holiday time so this week is going to be a real 'eye opener' for me since I'll have to work all week! I know....poor me---NOT. LOL

It's been a nice, relaxing Easter break. I'd like to say I made lots of progress....note, I'd LIKE to say that....but I can't! I spent a great deal of the time doing a lot of nothing and must say I did enjoy it.

Thursday I made a run to the other side of the world to go to Archivers. Lots of scrappin goodness but I managed to control myself in the spending realm--though I'm not certain how! My major adventure Friday was HEB---INSANE! Saturday was a trip to WalMart--even MORE insane than HEB the day before.

Lots of time chillin in front of the tv. Minimal number of chores--laundry, cleaning. Got my scrap on a bit and got a few pages done. Got cool pictures from my brother (one posted below) that I'm gonna get printed and 'play' with. Even did some cooking, trying out a few new recipes--some good, some not so much. Spoiled the honey with home-cooking (we didn't eat out once this weekend!).

And even more surprising for me...not one picture taken all weekend!

Happy Monday everyone.

Final Day in the Hill Country

2011-04-24T20:20:00.006-05:00

Got up Sunday morning and remembered we had talked about a trip to Cabella's. The honey said it would be okay to skip but after the many places he's gone for me, I felt a trip to Cabella's was a MUST. Didn't hurt that it was only about 15 miles away.

If you've ever been to Bass Pro you have idea of what it's like to go to Cabella's. Even so, it was cool looking at the various displays.

From Cabella's we headed for downtown and since we were hungry we headed for food (If we'd known what all our bike VIP passes allowed we'd have eaten there--next year!!). I had seen a spot on Diners, Drive ins and Dives about Casino El Camino in Austin--basically a bar with 'bar food' consisting of insane burgers, fries and wings. It was actually a good choice since it was about noon on a Sunday--we got there before any crowd. Bugers and beer--at least the honey had beer.

Bellies full we headed for our ultimate destination; the Bob Bullock Museum and the finish line for the MS150. Too bad this map was incorrect about where museum parking was....but the honey found us a place just on the edge of the UT campus and only a few blocks from the museum. We were able to watch the riders come in from the second floor bistro concourse....honey had a beer...and if we'd been hungry there was all sorts of delicious looking fare....I had a bottle of water and a peanut butter cookie that I split with the honey.

It's a cool sight wathcing all the riders come in after two days of cycling from Houston. Many partipate to fulfill personal goals but many do participate for the cause--raising funds to erase MS.

HIll Country Adventures...

2011-04-24T16:04:00.006-05:00

Yes...I'm a week behind....but at least I'm catching up.......

(Last) Saturday morning after breakfast at Denny's we headed to the Gilespie County Fair Grounds for the Country Peddler Show---it was 'His and Hers Weekend' so there were things to appease both men and women. Saw some cool hunting stuff and I picked up a few goodies. And the honey says there was a woman hitting on him though I never saw her......

After that it was off to the Nimitz Museum of the Pacific War. A very cool and interesting place. We were there for a few hours taking it in and still didn't see everything.... Made me think of my dad and the silk parachute my brother has that was taken from a Japanese paratrooper that dad shot down during the war. We are looking for the 'right place' to house the atrifact so it can be viewed by future generations.

The first stop after the museum was one of the many biergartens for refreshment. The honey was in heaven with the selection of dark beers. I stuck to DP since I would be driving soon.
After the beer it was time to hit the scrapbook store--with the honey patiently waiting as I ooohed and ahhhed over all the merchandise and tried to limit myself in regards to purchases.

A quick bite to eat--honey was starving--and off to Austin. Checking in the hotel was a breeze--thank you Priceline (first time I'd done that). Since I was very familiar with the area in which we were staying I couldn't ignore the 'pull' of Michael's and Barnes and Noble so while the honey rested I went for a brief shopping trip---would have been longer if it hadn't been after 8p already. Back to the hotel and shower and bed--Sunday was to be another big day with the MS 150.

HIstory...

2011-04-24T10:15:00.002-05:00

This is a picture of my daddy in WWII with the parachute of a Japanese paratrooper that my dad shot down.

Going to the National Museum of the Pacific War last week brought to mind this picture I hadn't seen in many, many years....thanks to my big bro for sending it to me.

Friday recap

2011-04-19T21:26:00.005-05:00

Friday was a gorgeous day and we headed for Fredericksburg...

Our first stop was the Fredericksburg Trade Days....kinda like Canton on a smaller scale.....the honey loved this!

Checked into our room and vegged a bit then off to grab a bite to eat then back to the hotel for the night....

Weekend Recap...coming soon.....

2011-04-19T16:23:00.001-05:00

Still recovering from the weekend fun and fulfilling work obligations but full post and pictures coming soon!

Weekend adventures ahead....

2011-04-13T20:35:00.001-05:00

Plan Accordingly

2011-04-12T18:45:00.002-05:00

Cute shoes, auction purchases and other assorted tidbits.....

2011-04-11T18:11:00.003-05:00

What a jam packed weekend.....did a little Macys shopping on Saturday--didn't realize how long it had been since I'd been there...got some cute new work tops and new orange dreamsicle colored polo for the MS150 next weekend (spectator, not rider)..and some cute Vera Wang flip flops at Kohls...that I ended up having to exchange Sunday because the pair I got home with had a major rip (before I ever got to wear them)

So on the way out Sunday morning the sweetie stopped by Kolhs so I could make the exchange...and I got a second pair of cute VW flipflops:

Then it was off to auction....there was an estate sale and he was hoping for a few bargains and figured there might be something we just couldn't live without! I ended up picking up a new basic sewing machine that I'll most likely use strictly for scrapping so it can be dedicated to paper, etc.

And then I looked away only to look back and hear 'SOLD to buyer number 3'...which was the number we were sharing...and this is what he bought......

Me: What did you just buy?
Sweetie: A table
Me: ok...(and then I actually saw it)....um, why did you buy THAT table?
Sweetie: Babe, it was only five dollars!
Me: Um, what're you gonna do with it?
Sweetie: Not sure, maybe sell it.
Me: Do you have someone who might be interested?
Sweetie: No
Me: Um, ok....wait, I may actually know someonw we might be able to sell it to......
Sweetie: That's great--go for it!

So I begin a text exchange....maybe....possibly.......don't really like the color....don't want it if it's partical board and not solid wood......

Sweetie and I continue on to R's dad's birthday bash.......say hi....eat a burger, visit a bit...head back to Podunk....

And then it happens.....as we turn a corner headed to get something to drink the top section flies off and hits the ground--apparently it wasn't quite as sturdy as we thought....and the Sweetie's reply.....oh crap, there goes the resale value!

You can make this up folks!

SLACKER......

2011-04-06T18:22:00.003-05:00

...yep that's me in the blogging department. Spring break was here and gone in the blink of an eye...I started strong then faded into oblivion... but I WILL try to right that wrong. It's time for me to step up and rejoin the blogging world so please allow me to redeem myself!

KISS at the Houston Rodeo....

2011-03-16T15:34:00.004-05:00

Love that the bullfighters painted their faces like KISS...

What a trip!

Musings from a Monday

2011-03-14T21:35:00.001-05:00

Wet drive into the med center......Neuro said he was grading pass/fail today...and I got a pass.......also told me I could change up to taking the shots three times a week instead of every other day which would basically give me weekends off!--back in 6 months.....

Made a run to By Design to check out the changes and use my $15 reward...got some yummy paper and ribbon....

In a creative mood I made some mini cupcake-chocolate with vanilla frosting and a dab of orange in honor of MS Awareness Week (which is this week)....

Rodeo Tomorrow!!

2011-03-14T06:15:00.001-05:00

YEP, KISS will be at the rodeo....and the honey and I are going with M&J

Sunday Errands....

2011-03-14T05:58:00.002-05:00

Check out Robin's work below....she designed the Laure Mercier product gondola.....got to see her 'work in action' when I popped in Sephora to pick up makeup......the honey sat outside the store enjoying the day...

Next was trip to the newly opened Joanns....soooooo much bigger and nicer than the old store....lots of yummy fabric.......

And an extensive scrapping section.....seemed nearly everything was 40% off
!---I managed to pace myself....the honey browsed at Academy......

Got some cute fabric and hope to play this week...I'm thinking apron...we shall see!

A quick trip (well sort quick) by Lane Bryant for some new jeans--since they have a new shipment of the ones I like and they are on sale......then dinner at Texas Roadhouse--we were both stuffed. By then it was nearly 7p so definitely time to head home and lounge a bit before having to head to dreamland.....honey has to work and I have a breakfast date...oh and a neuro appointment.

Laters!

Saturday is a RUGBY day....

2011-03-12T20:38:00.000-06:00

Name that Butt....

2011-03-09T19:51:00.000-06:00

Saturday Morning...

2011-02-26T10:59:00.006-06:00

Clean linens...

Planning to play here later (after moving a few things of course)....

Watching this....

Quick breakfast....

Again watched over by her.....

...she may be rather upset later because I'm planning to wash those towels....

Friday Night....

2011-02-25T19:38:00.004-06:00

Playing with this....

Watching this...

Working here...

Kept company by her....

too stinkin cute....

Rugby/Hunting Lease Weekend

2011-02-24T20:26:00.004-06:00

Pulled out last Saturday morning....first stop; San Antonio for rugby

then off to the lease for the weekend...

New Shoes....

2011-02-16T21:45:00.001-06:00

....well, hiking boots exactly.....

Getting ready for the weekend and many days to come....

I've been wanting another pair of 'weekend, casual shoes' for a while (cause I usually just wear tennis shoes when going for closed toe)...and have thought of some multi-purpose hiking type footware. After my Enchanted Rock adventure I became more aware of the need for such footware. And then there was the hunting trip that didn't happen (last month).

In preparation for a trip to the deer lease I knew it was time to dig in and finally buy some hiking boots. Of course being me, it was a case of get off work and head straight to Academy (the honey's influence as it's his favorite store). There was a limited selection and I suppose I could have passed and tried another location or another store but time was limited and I found this pair. I thought they looked pretty good--even trying them on with dress pants----and they were comfortable on my feet. The honey has already warned me to bring extra socks and lots of bandaides for he fears I will be in pain after a long day tracking--I'm hoping that isn't the case.

Valentine Dinner

2011-02-14T20:49:00.002-06:00

Since Valentine's is today (Monday), the honey and I celebrated this weekend...nothing fancy.....time together, breakfast yesterday and I cooked dinner for him....au gratin potatoes--from scratch (and he's already asked for them again)

broccoli rice casserole made with fresh broccoli.....

bread 'sticks' in the shape of a heart....

and steak....he was a happy boy.....silly me, I didn't get a picture of the valentine I made for him.....

Crazy Busy....

2011-02-12T09:53:00.003-06:00

That is how I would describe the last week.....

First up last Saturday was the Dolphin watching cruise for Miss I's birthday...and surprisingly it wasn't as cold on the water as I anticipated....

Next on the agenda was Galveston Rugby....unfortunately they lost to the UT Grad team...and it was super cold out on the pitch (field)....but the party after provided warmth, yummy food (thanks Mike) and lots of laughter....

Sunday was the annual MS Social so the honey and I ventured out to that...he is such a good sport. Afterward we ran by Archivers--again, he's a great sport--then over to Bass Pro to treat him...then home to watch my Steelers lose the SuperBowl---number seven alludes us for now....

Monday was the start of another cold, icy, busy week......but Friday night brought scrapping with girls....oh how I've missed that! I laughed and laughed and laughed.....

Now begins my jam packed Saturday...laundry, finishing up the honey's valentine, cleaning--or at least my attempt at doing so, shopping for valentine dinner with the honey...hoping to drop in to visit Robin in the midst of her journey toward being a brand new pain-free woman, running various errands and hoping to fit in some time to just veg.....

Playing....

2011-02-04T23:24:00.000-06:00

Walk Awards

2011-02-04T11:39:00.003-06:00

Tuesday evening was the MS Walk Awards party. I really have no idea where my team fell in the final rankings but I do know I made Mission Movers again though not as high as last year. But it's all good. Raised money for a very worthy cause and though I didn't make my personal goal I did achieve over 50% of the goal. Time to focus on the 2011 Walk! Mark your calendars--Saturday, November 12, 2011!! Site to be determined.....

Scrapbook Love...By Design style....

2011-01-31T17:08:00.004-06:00

Isn't the tag below adorable! Since I was headed home from the island I decided to stop at By Design and since it's Monday I got to 'play' and do the weekly make-n-take...so easy and C-U-T-E!!

January.....Where Have You Gone???

2011-01-31T16:48:00.002-06:00

Seems just yesterday was New Year's Day and in the blink of an eye, it's February Eve. As usual, it's been a busy whirlwind month....back to work......registration hell....the start of another semester (and sadly individuals want to do less and less for themselve and blame shortcomings or their failure to prepare on others)......annual Oaks Galveston weekend...and BOOM---it's February.

So thinking of my One Little Word....SAVOR....I have to think about the month and if I did indeed savor all that life had to offer. I got my first new bike in over 30 years--granted I've had to learn to ride again.....took a quick weekend trip with the honey even if we did end up changing our plans due to a busted elbow....had a fabulous weekend at the beach with the honey--the rugby team won, saw several friends and got to see the Oaks. Looking at that list I find it easy to say that yes, I did savor the time.

On to February!

Island Love

2011-01-31T14:30:00.002-06:00

...or How in the HECK did I NOT get any Galveston shots?????

Just home from the annual Oaks Island Weekend....pretty much jam packed.....Saturday morning breakfast at Kelley's with the honey---really looking forward to the Kelley's opening in Stafford cause the food is delish! A quick stop by Academy with the honey and then a short stoll down the seawall--and silly me, no pictures.

Next was the rugby game--even though the honey wasn't playing. It's a fun bunch and they won the game! Again-no pictures.

Back to the hotel to change for the show then off to the after-game party. They normally party at the bar just down from the Opera House which would have been perfect for me--unfortunately this time the party was changed to a location on the Seawall. Stopped there for a quick bite and a party with the team then off to the theater......yep, no pics!

Showtime---tons of pics then back to the hotel........

Sunday morning breakfast with the honey.......relaxing at the hotel then lunch with Na---again, no pics....then Sunday showtime and of course, many pictures. After the show back to the hotel and relaxing with the honey--I think I was asleep by 9p.

Monday morning up at a leisurely pace, off the island and home again........

Om Papa Mow Mow Ahead......

2011-01-27T17:27:00.001-06:00

The Last Two Days...

2011-01-25T16:13:00.002-06:00

This is where I've spent the last two days--sleeping today till 3:30p

This is what I've lived off of the last two days....

I finally feel as though I may be back among the living....I guess I slept all day today to make up for the sleep I didn't get Sunday night...and to get rid of the fever that attacked this morning...but I am finally feeling closer to (my) normal and plan to rejoin the world tomorrow!

Just Scrap It...

2011-01-23T15:14:00.003-06:00

After spending lots of time looking through scrap magazines and sites I finally sat down at the drafting table to create....I put together a mini book of the honey's hospital adventures from last weekend.

It's been a while since I've felt creative and it felt good to get back to it....think I'll spend the afternoon partaking in a little paper-thearapy......

Next time....put alll the towels away.....

2011-01-16T16:43:00.004-06:00

I swore I wasn't going to do this but I was in a hurry before we left and I left a few towels on the extra bed...guess where Sissy has decided to sleep......

Weekend gone awry....

2011-01-16T16:27:00.003-06:00

Ya plan and ya plan...and things never turn out as you planned.....

....the plan was after Saturday's rugby game to go to the deer lease for the rest of the weekend....honey was gonna hunt and cook for me and I was just going to lounge.....and then I heard him growl in pain.....dislocated and chipped his elbow....Saturday afternoon was spent in the McAllen Medical Center Emergency room. After being released we headed toward home but stopped in Kingsville for the night due to the really nasty weather.

Thank goodness I was there to help out and I'm thankful it wasn't any worse. He's been a trouper the entire time!

Small Progress......

2011-01-09T22:22:00.003-06:00

Looking much better than when I started....so much more to do but at least now I feel as though I could actually create in the space....

Such a life....

2011-01-09T12:14:00.001-06:00

Trying to do some purging and organizing in the studio today and this is how Sissy 'helps'.....

One Little Word........

2011-01-09T07:47:00.003-06:00

I realize I am slacking and lagging behind in regards to my 'one little word' for 2011...wish I could say I have a good reason but alas I don't. So without further ado.....my one little word: SAVOR I want to savor all that 2011 has to offer; to fully appreciate what comes my way both good and bad.

Just one week into the new year I think I am doing fairly well in 'living' my word. I don't seem to lament as much over time when I'm not going a 100 miles a minute but instead appreciate the times in which I may be doing nothing more than just sitting, living in the moment. If I start to feel bad about not accomplishing anything of great magnitude I think of what I actually have done and how it relates to my word. It's those times I generally realize I have taken time to just slow down and 'be', to savor that moment.

This morning for instance...I did not spring out of bed and immediately begin tackling the numerous things vying for my attention; back to organizing my scrap studio, laundry, work, etc. Instead I am enjoying the ability to linger in bed a bit--posting this from the comfort of my bed--thank you wi-fi. I am taking time to think of what I need to do and what I want to accomplish today and how I plan to fit in some creative time--because I have been missing that.

Here on the cusp of week 2 of 2011 I want to continue to savor the moment. What will you do to savor your time today?

Yesterday's yummy breakfast.....

2011-01-03T10:06:00.001-06:00

New Year's Day goodness

2011-01-02T16:22:00.002-06:00

I admit, I am not a big fan of black eyed peas--especially after getting deathly ill as a child during the night after having had a large helping of black eyed peas for dinner. Let's just say, they are not good the second time around. Mind you, it wasn't the peas that made me ill but some sort of bug going around but at that age you tend to associate such things.

Tradition, lore, superstition, whatever you choose to call it states you should have black eyed peas and cabbage for it will bring good luck and money. Fast forward and it's New Year's Day, 2011. With the new year I decided perhaps this time honored tradition should be followed, at least this once. The honey brought sausage and the cabbage and I had the black eyed peas and some rotel tomatoes to spice them up.

We had more than enough food for the two of us and it wasn't half bad! I actually enjoyed dinner and was stuffed and the honey was happy too.

Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T21:22:00.003-06:00

New Wheels

Finally bought the bike I've been contemplating for at least the last year. I mentioned it to the honey this morning and whoosh...we were off to Academy. Now I thought initially of getting a stationary bike--benefit of never having to worry about the weather--but decided I wanted a real bike. The honey's one request/requirement was that I get a helmet--or brain bucket as he referred to it. He said he wanted to make certain I was safe as possible and that he didn't want to have to visit me in the hospital--what a sweetie.

So here I am in Academy with I admit, no idea of just what I am doing. I scan the bike racks and ask the honey to pull down a couple different ones. I then proceed to try testing them there in the store--I say try because I have not been on an actual bicycle in probably at least 30 years......let me tell you, that thing about being able to always ride a bicycle is a LIE. I was wobbly and really wanted training wheels again! The honey just knew I was going to wipe out right there or that we would possibly be buying every item on that aisle. Fortunately that was not the case.

Once arriving home it was time to actually ride the bike.....so the honey adjusts my seat and gets ready to 'run along side me' like a proud dad teaching his child to ride sans training wheels for the first time. Ok...I was feeling a bit like a fool. C'mon, I'm 44 flipping years old....I can ride a bike! I did wobble a bit but soon I got the balance thing under control and off I went. Managed to do two laps around the complex. I am amshamed to say those two laps wiped me out but I figure it's good for a start and tomorrow I may try for three!

So while I don't really do 'resolution', this will help with that ever present goal to take better care of myself.....eat right, get some exercise, yadda, yadda, yadda. And it's my first step in 'savoring' 2011......my word for 2011 is 'savor'---and I will write more on that soon.

Connected!!

2010-12-29T05:11:00.002-06:00

After two new toys and needing adequate space (the dining table) to work at home I have now set up wifi. I treated myself to a media tablet (think Ipad but smaller and less expensive). In addition to being able to check email it offers an ereader function (even though I had said I didn't really want an ereader...). The functions are droid based so I now have access to different 'apps' without having to have an (expensive) Iphone or other high tech phone. So I'm not really certain what all I can do with the tablet just yet I will figure it out and can do so from the comfort of the couch!

My honey got me a digital frame for Christmas and it's more high-tech than I knew was available--he did good! The frame has wifi capabilities allowing me to 'send' pictures from my computer--how cool is that?!?!?! Who knew I could be so high-tech!

2010-12-27T06:13:00.000-06:00

He 'Gets' me......

2010-12-26T12:00:00.002-06:00

2010-12-26T11:57:00.000-06:00

2010-12-12T17:25:00.001-06:00

Thoughts....

2010-12-11T10:19:00.002-06:00

Wow...hard to believe the year is almost gone....what a whirlwind. Ups and downs but it's the 'ups' that come to mind the most and that is a good thing. The first part of the year had some rocky spots--especially the major flare in March. Then things began escalating...25 year high school reunion--renewing friendships....easing back into the dating world then eventually jumping with both feet....R and B becoming parents to a good kid with room in her heart for love....and then my honey coming into my life in September.

I could have never imagined the road I would travel at the start of the year--each experience and journey adding to enriching my life. And so very blessed to be able to share with great people. As I look at the calendar and see 2010 coming to a close I can't help but think of all the wonderful things I've encountered and look forward to in 2011.

2010-11-08T08:32:00.000-06:00

Enchanted Rock...

2010-11-07T17:40:00.003-06:00

After breakfast this morning the honey drove us out to Enchanted Rock....and we climbed to the top!! Just a little over half a mile--but rocky and steep in some places. We probably stopped a few more times than the honey anticipated but he was a good sport about it and view was worth the trip.

Morning Drive....

2010-10-31T14:15:00.001-05:00

After breakfast the honey drove us down to Matagorda down the beach a bit....such a nice morning with the windows down, watching the surf roll in......

Weekend Getaway.....

2010-10-21T18:02:00.002-05:00

Had a wonderful time last weekend when the honey took me to Austin, Llano and Fredricksburg. Satuday was a rugby game in Austin.....hopefully I'll learn this sport one day......Sunday it was off to Llano where we ate, looked through a few antique stores (his idea-believe it or not) and just relaxed......Monday was a run through Fredricksburg for shopping (again, his idea!), some beer and then back to reality.....He makes certain I have the best time and tells me it's only going to get better......

Sunday Afternoon....

2010-10-10T17:24:00.002-05:00

It's a wonderfully lazy Sunday afternoon. Saw Case 39 last night with my honey........and currently he's snoozing on the couch while I play in my scrap room/studio. Working on various Walk-related projects and just playing....if only this day could go on.....