Hey everyone!
There has been a lot of things going on, so let me try and just sum it up, as today will be another busy day.
Memorial Day was spent with family, and as soon as Mike got off of work, he joined us for the barbecue at my mom's house. My mom wasn't doing well, and I felt really bad for her that she was not well, and it upset me to see how my brother and sister in law were not being the parents that they are/should be when at her house. I've mentioned it already to my mom, and I can only hope that once I move, she tells them, without feeling guilty that she isn't doing well, so that they step up and do what they are supposed to be doing in the first place.
We had burgers and played many games. We had a really good time, regardless, and I think that I'll definitely miss those days once I'm gone.
Yesterday, Mike and I had a really busy day. We both had eye appointments, which it has been over ten years or so since my last check-up, and I manned up, which I think most people would never do, and flat out told them that I suspect that I may need glasses for distance and night vision. They did a check-up according to procedure, and determined that I could get glasses, or I could wait another ten years, as my sight isn't that far gone. Mike and I agreed that because we still have good insurance, that it might be in our best interest to just go ahead and get some glasses.
We were told that Target on Powers had an Optical section, but we looked and finally Mike asked someone, and it turns out that it wasn't that one, but a different one about seven miles away. We ended up just going to a nearby Lens Crafters to get them instead. When we were there, we ended up looking through the selections, and Mike picks up one, his first one he reached for and held it out to me to try on. Needless to say, this was the first and last pair that we settled on. It's pretty cute, and I don't have to wear them very often, so I'm okay with getting a pair. =)
The girl who was helping us in the beginning, ended up having to fix one of her co worker's mistakes with another customer. They were really under staffed here too! So the girl who screwed up the other person's order, decided that she would help us. Made for a very interesting fifteen minutes or so. This woman not only insults me, but proceeds to flash both Mike and me, as her shirt was not quite adequate enough to cover all of her. She also didn't know how to take pictures for measurements, as she continued to tell me to raise my chin .03mm (mm = millimeters). I, of course, wouldn't move at all, as it is physically impossible to move according to her measurements. It took her about five minutes to get the picture correct... Once that was finished, she told us to come back in about an hour and a half.
During that time, Mike and I had plans to take my mom and step dad out to lunch, as not only a thank you for everything that they have done for us since we've been here, but also as a sort of good-bye luncheon, before Mike leaves for Craig. We took them to the new place called Tucanos. They have amazing food, and they feature a lot of gluten-free items, (about 90% of the menu is GF), and we had a really good time. My mom made a funny face when I told her what a flan was, as she was eating it. She had no idea, but still liked it, regardless.
After lunch, my mom loaded our car up with a couple of boxes for the garage sale, and came with us, as she was going to help me organize all of the garage sale items, and take inventory so it will make pricing easier, but before we went home, we had to pick up the glasses...
We returned to the Lens Crafters, and ended up having to deal with the exact same girl who was still falling out of her shirt. I so badly wanted to reach over and cover her up, but I knew that I'd get punched. She continued to make her snide remarks to me, and I just smiled and was my sarcastic self, which probably didn't help the situation, but really, I didn't care. When we finally left, Mike and I kept saying, "Wow!" Then I added an old Queen song, "FLASH! ohooohh!" which had Mike laughing as I had to explain to my mom what had transpired.
By the time we got home, the painters had already started, and our painter is very much a sexist, sailor mouthed chimney. So Mike was telling them that my mom and I would be in the garage working on things, and he was okay with it. We had to lock the cats up, as the painter wanted to paint our front door, because it was weather and sun worn, and poor Mike ended up with a nice long and deep scratch down his arm. The cats were freaked, and I couldn't blame them, as we were gone, and suddenly there are men outside the house, banging against it with ladders and spraying the house with paint. I kept apologizing to Mike about the scratch, as it was my big cat that did it. Mike just said that it wasn't that bad, and we should consider trimming their nails again. I foresee that coming soon!
Now each time the painter wanted to talk to someone about opening the door, or whatever, he'd ring the doorbell. Mind you, I'm in the garage, only ten feet from where he was. I would have to walk inside, only to hear him ringing the bell another four times, before I opened it, and he would look at me and say," Oh, there you are." Of course, I'm thinking, I'm still in the garage. I haven't moved. After opening whatever door he requested, I would make my way back to the garage to continue working with my mother. This happened two more times. By the time the painter was finished for the day, he rang the door bell, and I went to answer it, but stopped as I heard him talking to my mom. I heard her tell me that he wanted to talk to Mike. I rolled my eyes, and went downstairs to get Mike. I informed Mike that his sexist painter wanted to speak with him, which had Mike laughing. I was a little annoyed, but this is who this guy is, and I'll just have to deal with it for the week. The painter is not only doing our house, but he will take care of our deck too, and it's all for just $1600, which is dirt cheap for a professional paint job. So, really, I can't complain.
Once my mom and I had finished, with everything that we had in the garage, and most of the other small boxes that we brought up from each room, we rearranged the garage so that they could fit and Mike could park inside. My mom took a few things back with her to her house, just to make sure that she didn't already have copies of the books, or just to have in general, and Mike and I were glad to be rid of the items, as this is the reason for our garage sale. I still need to put the price tags on the stuff and borrow tables, but for the most part, it's all coming together nicely.
Today, the painters will be back. Mike and I have some errands to run, such as grabbing groceries and cat food. I know that Mike is calling to set up some more appointments, and I'm not sure what else is happening. I just know that it will be a very busy day, and I'm hoping for a down day soon!
This Friday is girls' night, and I'm looking forward to it! I am just soaking up all of the time I can with friends, before I end up 5 hours away! There is also a bachelorette party in the works for the 13th, and I'm not sure if I'll have time to go to that or not, and they all want me to go, so I'll have to double check the timing of it all. I'm not sure, but I hope that I do.
I also found some interesting things out, that I'll keep to myself, but I'll say this: Everything that I wrote in one of the last postings, turns out that I was extremely on target. I know this is pretty vague, but I'm sure that the smart people will figure it out. I just had to shake my head and laugh, and say," no I wasn't talked to about anything, and I know that I won't be either." It is what it is, and there is nothing else to say.
Well, I think that I better get moving, as I have a lot to do today. It's going to be another crazy week of packing and spending time with those that I really care about.
Until next time!
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Sunday, May 27, 2012
If You Don't Believe in Something, You'll Fall for Anything
Hey everyone!
So, as promised, I finally have the pictures of the antique dresser that I had stripped all five layers of paint off, and stained. I had a huge helper in my mother, who as I was busy getting things taken care of with the house, she was finishing it up. I'm really happy that I had her help, and I'll always see her hard work when I see the dresser! So, without further ado, here it is!
Here it is, before.
And here is the finished product!
So, as promised, I finally have the pictures of the antique dresser that I had stripped all five layers of paint off, and stained. I had a huge helper in my mother, who as I was busy getting things taken care of with the house, she was finishing it up. I'm really happy that I had her help, and I'll always see her hard work when I see the dresser! So, without further ado, here it is!
Here it is, before.
And here is the finished product!The garage sale is only a couple more weeks! Time is really flying! I still need to get a lot of things sorted out, before then, in order to make sure that we've got everything that we don't need out of here! So I had a change of location. It is going to be at my place after all. I realized that I didn't really have any way of transporting the big items, such as the pool table, two tables, two mattresses and a futon, so I made sure to update everyone on the changes. The dates and times will still be the same, just a change of location.
I have submitted four photos to two different photography contests. I am hoping to hear something soon. Of course, the contest ends in a couple months, so I'll just have to be patient until then. One contest was an ocean based theme, so I had to submit only ocean related images. I struggled with a few, but managed to find three that would work. The other was anything, so I uploaded a breath-taking sunset picture. Keeping fingers crossed!
Poor Mike had a horrible migraine yesterday! He couldn't see at all, so I'm glad that he made the right choice by staying home. I am hoping that he is better today, as he did go to work, but I'm hoping that he isn't just being stoic.
I ended up mowing yesterday, since our yard had become rather furry, and since the landscapers aren't going to start work on our property until three weeks or so, I felt that it was silly to wait. So, once I had the lawn tamed, I made sure to be ready for when my mom and stepdad came to patch a hole in the wall. I appreciate that they took the time to come over to patch it for us, as we're pretty busy dealing with everything else that is going on.
This last Thursday, I went over to my friend's house for dinner and a movie. We had a really good time. Then that Friday, was games night. Mike finally was able to join us. It was a smaller group this week, but we still had so much fun! We were laughing so hard, we were crying! Before dinner at that games night, I had my friend hide a stuffed bear that I was planning on getting rid of, and had hidden clues around the house for my friend's niece to find. She was so stinking cute! Once she found the bear, she showed her mom. It was then that I realized that I created a monster! She wanted to hide clues for the boys to find, then have the boys hide clues for me to find! It was pretty cute, and I'm glad that she enjoyed herself. I feel only slightly bad that the bear is about twice the girl's size, but I'm sure she'll grow into it!
Packing is still a very slow process, but we are getting there. I'm actually really looking forward to when this is all said and done. I will state that I will miss Willow to death when I'm gone. She's gotten so big, as I haven't been able to see her each week as I have in the past, and she's speaking really well. I'll still have times that I'll be able to come back down into the Springs to see family and my dear friends, and I'm looking forward to those days! It's going to be tough, but I'm not going so far away, that it won't be possible.
I found a recipe that I so badly want to try, but I also know that I shouldn't be making it. Not only is the timing bad, with the move, but because of the dieting that both of us are on. I may still make them, but will package them into single servings, rather than having the whole thing left out to enjoy. The recipe is a Chocolate Loaf. I hear that it's amazing, and I've always wanted to try it...however, as stated previously, it might not be the right time. Instead, perhaps I should remake some granola bars. =)
Mike spoke with a painter that was highly recommended to us, by our neighbors, and he is planning on starting sometime this week. Of course, this week will be pretty crazy too, as we have a couple of doctor appointments, and the house painter, and everything. I know we will do just fine, but wow...I don't remember the last time I was quite this busy!
Well, I have a lot to do today, and very little time to spare. So, with all of this said, I better get moving...not literally, of course, but I should start doing some work. =)
Until next time!
Recipe: Chicken Linguine with Peppers and Zucchini
Because of the pending move, I went through our stock of food, and decided to make a very simple, very tasty meal that provides numerous helpings. I haven't made this in a very long time, but it was so good to have once more!
Here's the recipe.
2 full chicken breasts, cut into bite size pieces
2 whole red peppers, sliced
1 whole green pepper, sliced
2 zucchini, sliced
1/2 stick of butter
garlic powder, to taste
Parmesan cheese, to taste
linguine noodles
Cut chicken into bite size pieces. Place into skillet with olive oil, cover and cook on medium-low heat, until all pink is gone.
Slice all of your vegetables and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package.
Once chicken is finished cooking, place into a bigger pot (one that will hold everything, and one that will allow easy stirring), add your vegetables and cook on low to allow the vegetables to cook. Add a little garlic powder and Parmesan, according to your taste. Once pasta is ready, drain and add to pot with chicken and vegetables. Add the butter and more Parmesan, stirring and mixing ingredients thoroughly, until butter is melted.
Serve with biscuits, or your favorite breads.
Enjoy!
Thursday, May 24, 2012
People Don't Change, They Only Think They Do
Hey everyone!
I woke up feeling very contemplative. So, bear with me as I ramble on, but I think this hits a fair point for all of us.
After writing my last post, I realized something. I had asked that people grow up and act their age... that is something that will never happen. People never change, not unless they really want to, and let's face it, more times than not, everyone feels that they are not in the wrong, but those around them. This could be true in many situations, but honestly, I think we really do need to look at ourselves first.
I don't know how many times I had heard that someone was a jerk, or a b**ch to that said person. After listening to the story, one-sided of course, but after listening to the story, it always made me question what that person had done to the one who is getting bashed and trashed verbally. It all makes perfect sense now. You see, sometimes, you say or do something vaguely, and people are insecure enough to think that you're talking about them, or you're purposefully acting out negatively towards them. Instead of asking why you are doing what you're doing or saying, they lash out, they cut you off, they suddenly list you on their most hated list, and walk away. Deep down, you've always known that it was a matter of time before something like this was going to happen, as they've done it to all of their other friends and family members. They always make themselves out to be the victims, until you're the one that they toss to the curb, you always feel sorry for them, and sympathize, telling them that you're sorry they are going through what they are going through and talk smack about those they were bashing. Until you're in those "hated" people's shoes, you don't see what lies you've been fed, and how blown out of proportion those situations were really. It's not until you're in those shoes that you realize that it's a vicious cycle that has happened with everyone in that person's life, that for some unknown reason (at least to you), they are never happy, which would explain all of the complaining and the shopping sprees for things that are not vital in that moment.
Sometimes, singling out certain people from get togethers and other events could mean a lot of things, but the strongest meaning is that there is something that those people are doing right, which threatens the former. Whatever the reasons are for feeling threatened, no one but those threatened people will know. Those who are cast aside are left wondering what it is about them that no one likes. Honestly, I think that those people are living the lives in the manner that they want, and those who can't stand having them around, are angry that their lives are not the same as those they cast out.
I realize that my babbling is pretty vague. I know they are. I don't know how many times I had opened up to people that I thought were genuine, people that I thought were good people, those that I considered family, only to discover that I was blinded by the lies and acting of those people. It's funny how it takes you getting burned and mistreated by those around you, those you think are close to you, only to find that they were playing you. It could be that these people only want you around to make themselves feel better. They see that you are suffering from something, whether it's family related or not, and that makes them happy. They are happy because they have a better life than you do, but until that day comes when you discover that you're much better off, and you have an amazing life once you let go of the negative, then those people don't want you around. I actually knew a girl who, when I was dating Matt, told me that she didn't want to be my friend anymore because my life was great and hers wasn't. She didn't want to be around someone who was enjoying life. I realized that as much as I valued the friendship, it wasn't a friendship. No friend would turn their back on someone they consider a friend, simply because their life wasn't as bad as theirs.
I've come to realize that it's almost the same in several failed "friendships". I am not sure why people want to surround themselves with those unfortunate people who base friendships on who is in a better place than the other. Its not worth it, as life is too short.
Same is said of family. We make mistakes in our lives, but family, and sometimes even friends, are supposed to be there to help pick you up from those mistakes and help them through it. I've realized that I'll never really have that with certain members of my family. I've also realized that I never got that with those I thought were friends. Yes, I had someone to talk to about my problems, but that was pretty much it. I think those friends wanted to hear the negatives in my life so they could rub in the fact that they were better off. I feel a little guilty in writing that, especially because I think we were friends for a reason back then, but now, I realize that people don't ever change for the better, unless they really make an effort. I'm a pretty loyal person, and I keep going back to those who have treated me poorly, and I've learned to stop.
I realize that by mentioning certain things, might cause some waves, but I think there are already waves. I'm just adding to it. The way that I see it is this: Everyone is a fish, moving with the current...I am just going against it. Its that simple. People may hate me because of what I say, or the things that I may do, but at least I am not a mindless drone, doing the same things, complaining about the same things, or hating the same people for the things that I've caused them to do. As I fight the currents, I'll met new people, and maybe I'll convince some to move against the currents, but those that I have left behind me, will never see me again. I'm okay with that. Things happen for a reason, and there is always something better in store for us. We just have to wait until they make an appearance. There is a saying that people will show their true colors in time. This is very true. It just depends on how you want to decipher those colors. If you keep this hatred in your mind and heart, then all you will see is the negatives and you'll never know why these people are the way they are. If you look at the colors as what they are, then you're going to be a happier person in the long run.
I know this probably doesn't make a lot of sense, so let me break it down a little by showing this article that proves what I am saying. I know a lot of people will disagree with me on this, but there is a lot of truth here...
If your favorite color is Red, you are action oriented with a deep need for physical fulfillment and to experience life through the five senses. The positives of Red are: physical courage, strength, warmth, energy, basic survival, 'fight or flight', stimulation, masculinity, excitement. The negatives: defiance, aggression, visual impact, strain, demanding.
If your favorite color is Orange, you have a great need to be with people, to socialize with them, and be accepted and respected as part of a group. You also have a need for challenges in your life, whether it is physical or social challenges. The positives of Orange: physical comfort, food, warmth, security, sensuality, passion, abundance, fun. The negatives: deprivation, frustration, frivolity, immaturity, lack of intellectual values.
If your favorite color is Yellow, it means you have a deep need for logical order in your everyday life and to be able to express your individuality by using your logical mind to inspire and create new ideas. The positives of Yellow: optimism, confidence, self-esteem, extroversion, emotional strength, friendliness, creativity. The negatives: irrationality, fear, emotional fragility, depression, anxiety, suicide.
If your favorite color is Green, you have a deep need to belong, to love and to be loved and to feel safe and secure. You need acceptance and acknowledgement from the everyday things that you do for other, just a "thank you" is sufficient. The positives of Green: harmony, balance, refreshment, universal love, rest, restoration, reassurance, environmental awareness, equilibrium, peace. The negatives: boredom, stagnation, blandness, enervation.
If your favorite color is Blue, you have a deep need to find inner peace and truth, to live life according to your ideals and beliefs without having to change your inflexible viewpoint of life to satisfy others. The positives of Blue: intelligence, communication, trust, efficiency, serenity, duty, logic, coolness, reflection, calm. The negatives: coldness, aloofness, lack of emotion, unfriendliness.
If your favorite color is Indigo, you have a need to feel in harmony and at one with the Universe and to be accepted by others as the aware and intuitive spiritual beings that they are.
If your favorite color is purple or violet, you have a deep need for emotional security and to create order and perfection in all areas of your life, including your spiritual life. You also have a deep need to initiate and participate in humanitarian projects, helping others in need. The positives of Purple, Violet, Indigo: spiritual awareness, containment, vision, luxury, authenticity, truth, quality. The negatives: introversion, decadence, suppression, inferiority, communicates cheap and nasty.
If your favorite color is Pink, you have a deep need to be accepted and loved unconditionally. The positives of Pink: Physical tranquillity, nurture, warmth, femininity, love, sexuality, survival of the species. The negative: inhibition, emotional claustrophobia, emasculation, physical weakness, draining.
If your favorite color is Turquoise, your deepest need is to create emotional balance in your life, to be able to express your hopes and dreams no matter how idealistic they may be and to make your ow way in the world under your own terms.
If your favorite color is magenta, you and a non-conformist who sees life from a different point of view.
If your favorite color is Brown, you have a deep need for a safe, secure, simple and comfortable existence with supportive family and friends. The positives: seriousness, warmth, nature, earthiness, reliability, support. Negatives: Lack of humor, heaviness, lack of sophistication, suppressive.
If your favorite color is Black, you have a need for power and control in order to protect their own emotional insecurities. The positives: sophistication, glamour, security, emotional safety, efficiency, substance. The negatives: oppression, coldness, menace, heaviness, seriousness.
If your favorite color is White, your deepest need is for simplicity in your own life and to be independent and self-reliant so you do not need to depend on anyone else. The positives: hygiene, sterility, clarity, purity, cleanness, simplicity, sophistication, efficiency. The negatives: sterility, coldness, barriers, unfriendliness, elitism, heightened perception of space.
If your favorite color is Gray, you are the middle of the road type, cool, conserved, composed and reliable. You tend to conform just to keep the peace. The positives: psychological neutrality. The negatives: lack of confidence, dampness, depression, hibernation, lack of energy, fear of exposure.
If your favorite color is Silver, you are intuitive and insightful and have a strong connection with a higher spiritual guidance.
If your favorite color is Gold, you radiate charisma, personality and individuality, making others feel relaxed and valued in your company.
Now, I know that by posting this, you might think that I am over-reaching the point. I know that the saying doesn't necessarily mean literally. However, if you read it carefully, and be honest, you'll notice that the things that are said, are exactly right. I had a friend who loved pink. What I read and wrote, hit the nail. I also had a friend who loved purple and gray, and once again, it was right on. I have family members who love yellow, and etc. You get my point. It could be that the "true colors" that we seem to be facing when the world comes crashing down around us, they where always in front of us to begin with, we just didn't think anything of it before we had our little fights. Of course, I am sure that I'll be told that none of it is true, and that is okay. I somehow think that it is.
People tend to like things that are true in their very nature, or essence. As humans, we are naturally drawn to things and people who are our equals. The poor hang out with the poor, the ugly marry the ugly and the pretty marry the pretty. The same is said about brains, likes, dislikes, friends and so forth. It's only normal to want to be an equal to those around us. If for some reason, we find ourselves in the presence of those that we feel are not up to our level, or if we feel they are higher than we are, we disassociate ourselves, it's normal. They downside of such feelings, is that we tend to make waves. We find a reason to disconnect from them. We fight, we nitpick until someone snaps, we lie, we treat them as though they are not worthy of our attention, and then we wonder what went wrong when we are all fighting. I think that sometimes, people are too afraid to speak the truth because of the reasons they've conjured up.
Being honest has become almost extinct these days. In reality, you cannot say that you've never lied, as we all have at one point or another, and some still do to this day, it's just that they are not lying to you, they are lying to themselves. They treat you poorly because they feel badly about themselves. They want to make themselves feel better, or make themselves feel as though they have some sort of self worth, and therefore they make sure that you feel like you're nothing of importance. If we could just look one another in the eye and just say, "I'm sorry, but I don't think that you are worth my time" or even saying the obvious," We have nothing in common, and I don't think that this is making a lot of sense for us to continue." Yes I know it sounds like a break-up, but wouldn't you rather have that, then being attacked for being you?
You can learn a lot about yourself in a short amount of time, as long as you're being honest with yourself. Most people can't even do that. Sometimes, people don't want to look at themselves with a honest mind, because they hate who they have become. They feel that they are perfect, they feel that there is nothing wrong with them, yet there are so many negative things happening to them. If you call those people out on something that they have done wrong, you better make sure you're prepared to face the consequences of that. I've done that. I'll be honest. I've called people out before on things that they have said to me, and sometimes, I make a subtle remark, that suddenly I'm suffering for their guilty conscious because they were caught and not realizing they'd be called on it. It's normal. People don't like to be told they are in the wrong, they don't like to be made out as the bad guys...remember I mentioned that people like to be viewed as the victims? Sometimes, being the victim can make you seem whiny and not worth being around, as that is all you do. I'll admit again, that I've done my fair share of complaining, but no more. I'm actually taking responsibility for my actions, and I'm changing.
As I said before, people don't really change, not unless they really want to. I've been making a point to change for years. I've seen a difference. I know that others have seen a difference too, which is one reason that some people have walked away from me, and others have come forward into my life. I'm not going to let something stupid affect me life in the negative way. I am a better person than that. I'm not going to spend the rest of my life wondering why the people who lied to me walked away, it's not worth my time. There are just somethings that are better left behind me in the currents as they continue to drift away with the rest of the guppies.
I'm truly looking forward to moving to Craig. It will be like hitting the reset button, letting go of all of the negatives that this town holds, all of the drama and starting over new. The best part about starting over, is realizing that you can become that person that you've always wanted to. Leave all the bad behind you, and start fresh, make new friends, have better opportunities (like a photography studio), and being able to be relaxed enough to enjoy your life as it was meant to. I wish that everyone could have a fresh start, but people don't like to change, and they tend to stick around what they know best. Sadly, a large part of the population only know the negatives and refuse to move on. I'm not one of those people.
So, I apologize for this novel. As I mentioned at the beginning, I woke up feeling quite contemplative and just had to let this out there. I'm very blessed to have the amazing friends that I have, who have supported me in every way, good or bad, happy or sad, and I know that I will still have those friends, no matter where I move to. Same goes with the small amount of family that I have left. With their unwavering love and support, no matter how crazy the family can be at times, I still have one, and I'm grateful for their acknowledgement. I am also really blessed that I have an amazing husband, who supports me in every way a person can be, and continues to encourage my dreams and supports them, no matter how silly they may be to those around me. I am blessed to have been able to go over seas with him, exploring places and making memories. Not many people have that opportunity, and I'm grateful that I have been given them. I can't wait to see where we go next, and what our lives will have in store for us. I know that my life is far from "perfect", but it's perfect to me. I wouldn't change a thing about it, and I'm so happy to have this life to look forward to.
So, I guess that is all of the profound moments that I have for one morning. I'll try to update you on the things going on around here when I have more time, since I've spent my free time on this quandary.
Until next time!
I woke up feeling very contemplative. So, bear with me as I ramble on, but I think this hits a fair point for all of us.
After writing my last post, I realized something. I had asked that people grow up and act their age... that is something that will never happen. People never change, not unless they really want to, and let's face it, more times than not, everyone feels that they are not in the wrong, but those around them. This could be true in many situations, but honestly, I think we really do need to look at ourselves first.
I don't know how many times I had heard that someone was a jerk, or a b**ch to that said person. After listening to the story, one-sided of course, but after listening to the story, it always made me question what that person had done to the one who is getting bashed and trashed verbally. It all makes perfect sense now. You see, sometimes, you say or do something vaguely, and people are insecure enough to think that you're talking about them, or you're purposefully acting out negatively towards them. Instead of asking why you are doing what you're doing or saying, they lash out, they cut you off, they suddenly list you on their most hated list, and walk away. Deep down, you've always known that it was a matter of time before something like this was going to happen, as they've done it to all of their other friends and family members. They always make themselves out to be the victims, until you're the one that they toss to the curb, you always feel sorry for them, and sympathize, telling them that you're sorry they are going through what they are going through and talk smack about those they were bashing. Until you're in those "hated" people's shoes, you don't see what lies you've been fed, and how blown out of proportion those situations were really. It's not until you're in those shoes that you realize that it's a vicious cycle that has happened with everyone in that person's life, that for some unknown reason (at least to you), they are never happy, which would explain all of the complaining and the shopping sprees for things that are not vital in that moment.
Sometimes, singling out certain people from get togethers and other events could mean a lot of things, but the strongest meaning is that there is something that those people are doing right, which threatens the former. Whatever the reasons are for feeling threatened, no one but those threatened people will know. Those who are cast aside are left wondering what it is about them that no one likes. Honestly, I think that those people are living the lives in the manner that they want, and those who can't stand having them around, are angry that their lives are not the same as those they cast out.
I realize that my babbling is pretty vague. I know they are. I don't know how many times I had opened up to people that I thought were genuine, people that I thought were good people, those that I considered family, only to discover that I was blinded by the lies and acting of those people. It's funny how it takes you getting burned and mistreated by those around you, those you think are close to you, only to find that they were playing you. It could be that these people only want you around to make themselves feel better. They see that you are suffering from something, whether it's family related or not, and that makes them happy. They are happy because they have a better life than you do, but until that day comes when you discover that you're much better off, and you have an amazing life once you let go of the negative, then those people don't want you around. I actually knew a girl who, when I was dating Matt, told me that she didn't want to be my friend anymore because my life was great and hers wasn't. She didn't want to be around someone who was enjoying life. I realized that as much as I valued the friendship, it wasn't a friendship. No friend would turn their back on someone they consider a friend, simply because their life wasn't as bad as theirs.
I've come to realize that it's almost the same in several failed "friendships". I am not sure why people want to surround themselves with those unfortunate people who base friendships on who is in a better place than the other. Its not worth it, as life is too short.
Same is said of family. We make mistakes in our lives, but family, and sometimes even friends, are supposed to be there to help pick you up from those mistakes and help them through it. I've realized that I'll never really have that with certain members of my family. I've also realized that I never got that with those I thought were friends. Yes, I had someone to talk to about my problems, but that was pretty much it. I think those friends wanted to hear the negatives in my life so they could rub in the fact that they were better off. I feel a little guilty in writing that, especially because I think we were friends for a reason back then, but now, I realize that people don't ever change for the better, unless they really make an effort. I'm a pretty loyal person, and I keep going back to those who have treated me poorly, and I've learned to stop.
I realize that by mentioning certain things, might cause some waves, but I think there are already waves. I'm just adding to it. The way that I see it is this: Everyone is a fish, moving with the current...I am just going against it. Its that simple. People may hate me because of what I say, or the things that I may do, but at least I am not a mindless drone, doing the same things, complaining about the same things, or hating the same people for the things that I've caused them to do. As I fight the currents, I'll met new people, and maybe I'll convince some to move against the currents, but those that I have left behind me, will never see me again. I'm okay with that. Things happen for a reason, and there is always something better in store for us. We just have to wait until they make an appearance. There is a saying that people will show their true colors in time. This is very true. It just depends on how you want to decipher those colors. If you keep this hatred in your mind and heart, then all you will see is the negatives and you'll never know why these people are the way they are. If you look at the colors as what they are, then you're going to be a happier person in the long run.
I know this probably doesn't make a lot of sense, so let me break it down a little by showing this article that proves what I am saying. I know a lot of people will disagree with me on this, but there is a lot of truth here...
If your favorite color is Red, you are action oriented with a deep need for physical fulfillment and to experience life through the five senses. The positives of Red are: physical courage, strength, warmth, energy, basic survival, 'fight or flight', stimulation, masculinity, excitement. The negatives: defiance, aggression, visual impact, strain, demanding.
If your favorite color is Orange, you have a great need to be with people, to socialize with them, and be accepted and respected as part of a group. You also have a need for challenges in your life, whether it is physical or social challenges. The positives of Orange: physical comfort, food, warmth, security, sensuality, passion, abundance, fun. The negatives: deprivation, frustration, frivolity, immaturity, lack of intellectual values.
If your favorite color is Yellow, it means you have a deep need for logical order in your everyday life and to be able to express your individuality by using your logical mind to inspire and create new ideas. The positives of Yellow: optimism, confidence, self-esteem, extroversion, emotional strength, friendliness, creativity. The negatives: irrationality, fear, emotional fragility, depression, anxiety, suicide.
If your favorite color is Green, you have a deep need to belong, to love and to be loved and to feel safe and secure. You need acceptance and acknowledgement from the everyday things that you do for other, just a "thank you" is sufficient. The positives of Green: harmony, balance, refreshment, universal love, rest, restoration, reassurance, environmental awareness, equilibrium, peace. The negatives: boredom, stagnation, blandness, enervation.
If your favorite color is Blue, you have a deep need to find inner peace and truth, to live life according to your ideals and beliefs without having to change your inflexible viewpoint of life to satisfy others. The positives of Blue: intelligence, communication, trust, efficiency, serenity, duty, logic, coolness, reflection, calm. The negatives: coldness, aloofness, lack of emotion, unfriendliness.
If your favorite color is Indigo, you have a need to feel in harmony and at one with the Universe and to be accepted by others as the aware and intuitive spiritual beings that they are.
If your favorite color is purple or violet, you have a deep need for emotional security and to create order and perfection in all areas of your life, including your spiritual life. You also have a deep need to initiate and participate in humanitarian projects, helping others in need. The positives of Purple, Violet, Indigo: spiritual awareness, containment, vision, luxury, authenticity, truth, quality. The negatives: introversion, decadence, suppression, inferiority, communicates cheap and nasty.
If your favorite color is Pink, you have a deep need to be accepted and loved unconditionally. The positives of Pink: Physical tranquillity, nurture, warmth, femininity, love, sexuality, survival of the species. The negative: inhibition, emotional claustrophobia, emasculation, physical weakness, draining.
If your favorite color is Turquoise, your deepest need is to create emotional balance in your life, to be able to express your hopes and dreams no matter how idealistic they may be and to make your ow way in the world under your own terms.
If your favorite color is magenta, you and a non-conformist who sees life from a different point of view.
If your favorite color is Brown, you have a deep need for a safe, secure, simple and comfortable existence with supportive family and friends. The positives: seriousness, warmth, nature, earthiness, reliability, support. Negatives: Lack of humor, heaviness, lack of sophistication, suppressive.
If your favorite color is Black, you have a need for power and control in order to protect their own emotional insecurities. The positives: sophistication, glamour, security, emotional safety, efficiency, substance. The negatives: oppression, coldness, menace, heaviness, seriousness.
If your favorite color is White, your deepest need is for simplicity in your own life and to be independent and self-reliant so you do not need to depend on anyone else. The positives: hygiene, sterility, clarity, purity, cleanness, simplicity, sophistication, efficiency. The negatives: sterility, coldness, barriers, unfriendliness, elitism, heightened perception of space.
If your favorite color is Gray, you are the middle of the road type, cool, conserved, composed and reliable. You tend to conform just to keep the peace. The positives: psychological neutrality. The negatives: lack of confidence, dampness, depression, hibernation, lack of energy, fear of exposure.
If your favorite color is Silver, you are intuitive and insightful and have a strong connection with a higher spiritual guidance.
If your favorite color is Gold, you radiate charisma, personality and individuality, making others feel relaxed and valued in your company.
Now, I know that by posting this, you might think that I am over-reaching the point. I know that the saying doesn't necessarily mean literally. However, if you read it carefully, and be honest, you'll notice that the things that are said, are exactly right. I had a friend who loved pink. What I read and wrote, hit the nail. I also had a friend who loved purple and gray, and once again, it was right on. I have family members who love yellow, and etc. You get my point. It could be that the "true colors" that we seem to be facing when the world comes crashing down around us, they where always in front of us to begin with, we just didn't think anything of it before we had our little fights. Of course, I am sure that I'll be told that none of it is true, and that is okay. I somehow think that it is.
People tend to like things that are true in their very nature, or essence. As humans, we are naturally drawn to things and people who are our equals. The poor hang out with the poor, the ugly marry the ugly and the pretty marry the pretty. The same is said about brains, likes, dislikes, friends and so forth. It's only normal to want to be an equal to those around us. If for some reason, we find ourselves in the presence of those that we feel are not up to our level, or if we feel they are higher than we are, we disassociate ourselves, it's normal. They downside of such feelings, is that we tend to make waves. We find a reason to disconnect from them. We fight, we nitpick until someone snaps, we lie, we treat them as though they are not worthy of our attention, and then we wonder what went wrong when we are all fighting. I think that sometimes, people are too afraid to speak the truth because of the reasons they've conjured up.
Being honest has become almost extinct these days. In reality, you cannot say that you've never lied, as we all have at one point or another, and some still do to this day, it's just that they are not lying to you, they are lying to themselves. They treat you poorly because they feel badly about themselves. They want to make themselves feel better, or make themselves feel as though they have some sort of self worth, and therefore they make sure that you feel like you're nothing of importance. If we could just look one another in the eye and just say, "I'm sorry, but I don't think that you are worth my time" or even saying the obvious," We have nothing in common, and I don't think that this is making a lot of sense for us to continue." Yes I know it sounds like a break-up, but wouldn't you rather have that, then being attacked for being you?
You can learn a lot about yourself in a short amount of time, as long as you're being honest with yourself. Most people can't even do that. Sometimes, people don't want to look at themselves with a honest mind, because they hate who they have become. They feel that they are perfect, they feel that there is nothing wrong with them, yet there are so many negative things happening to them. If you call those people out on something that they have done wrong, you better make sure you're prepared to face the consequences of that. I've done that. I'll be honest. I've called people out before on things that they have said to me, and sometimes, I make a subtle remark, that suddenly I'm suffering for their guilty conscious because they were caught and not realizing they'd be called on it. It's normal. People don't like to be told they are in the wrong, they don't like to be made out as the bad guys...remember I mentioned that people like to be viewed as the victims? Sometimes, being the victim can make you seem whiny and not worth being around, as that is all you do. I'll admit again, that I've done my fair share of complaining, but no more. I'm actually taking responsibility for my actions, and I'm changing.
As I said before, people don't really change, not unless they really want to. I've been making a point to change for years. I've seen a difference. I know that others have seen a difference too, which is one reason that some people have walked away from me, and others have come forward into my life. I'm not going to let something stupid affect me life in the negative way. I am a better person than that. I'm not going to spend the rest of my life wondering why the people who lied to me walked away, it's not worth my time. There are just somethings that are better left behind me in the currents as they continue to drift away with the rest of the guppies.
I'm truly looking forward to moving to Craig. It will be like hitting the reset button, letting go of all of the negatives that this town holds, all of the drama and starting over new. The best part about starting over, is realizing that you can become that person that you've always wanted to. Leave all the bad behind you, and start fresh, make new friends, have better opportunities (like a photography studio), and being able to be relaxed enough to enjoy your life as it was meant to. I wish that everyone could have a fresh start, but people don't like to change, and they tend to stick around what they know best. Sadly, a large part of the population only know the negatives and refuse to move on. I'm not one of those people.
So, I apologize for this novel. As I mentioned at the beginning, I woke up feeling quite contemplative and just had to let this out there. I'm very blessed to have the amazing friends that I have, who have supported me in every way, good or bad, happy or sad, and I know that I will still have those friends, no matter where I move to. Same goes with the small amount of family that I have left. With their unwavering love and support, no matter how crazy the family can be at times, I still have one, and I'm grateful for their acknowledgement. I am also really blessed that I have an amazing husband, who supports me in every way a person can be, and continues to encourage my dreams and supports them, no matter how silly they may be to those around me. I am blessed to have been able to go over seas with him, exploring places and making memories. Not many people have that opportunity, and I'm grateful that I have been given them. I can't wait to see where we go next, and what our lives will have in store for us. I know that my life is far from "perfect", but it's perfect to me. I wouldn't change a thing about it, and I'm so happy to have this life to look forward to.
So, I guess that is all of the profound moments that I have for one morning. I'll try to update you on the things going on around here when I have more time, since I've spent my free time on this quandary.
Until next time!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Families Are Like Mob Bosses
Hey everyone!
So let me just get this out of the way first. You might be a little confused by the title of this post, or you may be angry by it because you know what is coming. Either way, brace yourself.
I feel as though family is very similar to what mob bosses are. They single out the weakest link in the chain, then they proceed to hound and beat information out of said person, getting what they want, instead of just going to the source directly. How hard is it to talk to the person you are curious about? I know you all have my contact information...it shouldn't be that freaking hard. Especially if you're in the same town.
First of all, I think it's silly...rather stupid really, but honestly, it's called common courtesy. It's so freaking stupid that people go around the one they want information on.
Honestly, I'm quite pissed, if you haven't figured it out yet. I know that everyone, or most of you, are reading this blog, and it's really disrespectful to sit there and ask my mother for information about me. I'm not singling just one of you out, because everyone has done it. So maybe I should do this, so that way everyone can stop hounding my mother for information, since everyone seems to be so freaking scared of me to even ask.
1. No, I'm not pregnant. When I know something, you'll know something. Let it go.
2. My OB is Dr. Lisa Hovenga, though anyone who is struggling with pregnancy can just ask their OB and get the help they need, as all of them are qualified in helping with that issue.
3. Yes, Mike and I are moving out of the city. We're moving to Craig. I wanted to wait until things were a little more definite, but since no one can just sit tight and wait for me to get around to telling everyone, I might as well do it now. Thanks for not being patient. Awesome.
4. Believe it or not, my mother doesn't know everything that is going on, and she doesn't tell Josh and me everything. Whoever started the rumor that she can't keep secrets, look in a mirror!
5. Much to your dismay, my world doesn't revolve around you.
So, now that I've established the points, let me elaborate a little.
Not pregnant yet. Wednesday, I go in to have an xray done, to make sure that there are no blocks in the fallopian tubes. Once I get that test out of the way, we can proceed to figure out what else is going on. I'm still on Clomid, and I'm dealing with the side effects of that. It's a little daunting and a bit upsetting that no one, except my mother and Mike had bothered to ask me how I'm doing, and help me through what I'm dealing with. It sucks to realize how much your family "cares." Whatever. I know where I stand, and have stood for years. Thanks for making it even more obvious.
You might be confused as to why I put my OB's name in the blog. I'm tired of people asking my mom if I am pregnant, getting the answer of no, and then proceeding to tell her that "oh, I know people at work who are struggling and would like the name of her doctor so that I can point these people in the right direction." Honestly, if these people have any brains of their own, they might know how to look it up themselves, or hell, why not just ask your OB that you have? As I mentioned above, every OB is qualified to help in that area. Oh, and thanks for rubbing salt in the open wound about my having a hard time getting pregnant. I appreciate it.
Mike has accepted a position in Craig, Colorado. It's a nice smaller town, with so much out there for us. Mike's new job will allow him to continue to grow as a pharmacist and as an individual. Memorial, here in the Springs, is like prison, except the prisoners these days have more freedom than Mike ever got at that toxic place. So, yes, we are moving. I'm not sure when, and I'm not sure how long it will take. We meet with a realtor to sign contracts and get the ball rolling. I've been packing already and sorting things for a garage sale. We are having landscapers and painters come out to take care of the house to make it more sell able. If you know of anyone who is looking for a house, point them in our direction.
I know that someone in the family has mentioned more than once how my mother cannot keep a secret from anyone. "Don't tell Cheryl, or else everyone in the world will know." Really? Really?! Have you looked in a mirror lately? I know that I caused huge waves when everyone found out that Mike and I were already married before the actual ceremony day, and guess what, my mom knew about it, and once people started to ask her if she knew, they got pissed off at her for keeping a secret...isn't that what you're all complaining she can't do? So, my mom has known about this move for a while, and I suspect that you've picked up on that fact too, or else the hounding wouldn't have happened. Either way, it's a low blow. Leave the woman alone, and if you have questions about me, Mike or our lives, pick up the phone or connect to your email and get a hold of us yourselves. Stop going through my mother, who has enough on her plate to deal with as it is. We are not in freaking high school or the fourth grade. Let's be adults...
Oh and with number 5...this isn't just pointing at family, but people who are no longer in my life, and friends as well. Believe it or not, my life isn't revolving around you. I don't wake up and think about you, I don't go to sleep wondering what you're up to, and I don't stare at my phone, or check my email in hopes of hearing from you. And what I write in this blog, isn't directed solely at you. Grow the freak up already! You do this to everyone, including your family, so move on. I'm so sick and tired of these stupid games of wanting attention. I don't care! I do have other people in my life other than those who chose to walk away. I'm much better for that choice, don't get me wrong, and I'll never look back on it with sad undertones.
So, I apologize if this completely ruins your thoughts of me, but as I said just a moment ago, I don't care. It's not like it's going to change anything, simply because no one is going to grow up and act their age. It's freaking simple. You want to know about me, or my life, just freaking call or email me. Yes, I am pissed off right now, for good reason. This is the quickest way to piss me off, by going to those around me to ask about me. It's childish, and it needs to stop. You want to make life easier in the sense of having a "Together" family, then stop singling certain members out of the family, stop hiding your plans to go to some one's house, and not invite certain people. Yes, I know all about the outing to the house in Peyton, where a certain someone lives, and my mother, brother and his family and me and mine were not invited. Whatever. It just goes to show where we stand. In the words of some people in this family, "We're not stupid. We can read between the lines and connect the dots."
I'm sorry if this seems too harsh, but frankly, I'm sick of this behavior. Am I really the only grown up left? Oops, I think I've spoken too soon...here come the cement shoes...
So let me just get this out of the way first. You might be a little confused by the title of this post, or you may be angry by it because you know what is coming. Either way, brace yourself.
I feel as though family is very similar to what mob bosses are. They single out the weakest link in the chain, then they proceed to hound and beat information out of said person, getting what they want, instead of just going to the source directly. How hard is it to talk to the person you are curious about? I know you all have my contact information...it shouldn't be that freaking hard. Especially if you're in the same town.
First of all, I think it's silly...rather stupid really, but honestly, it's called common courtesy. It's so freaking stupid that people go around the one they want information on.
Honestly, I'm quite pissed, if you haven't figured it out yet. I know that everyone, or most of you, are reading this blog, and it's really disrespectful to sit there and ask my mother for information about me. I'm not singling just one of you out, because everyone has done it. So maybe I should do this, so that way everyone can stop hounding my mother for information, since everyone seems to be so freaking scared of me to even ask.
1. No, I'm not pregnant. When I know something, you'll know something. Let it go.
2. My OB is Dr. Lisa Hovenga, though anyone who is struggling with pregnancy can just ask their OB and get the help they need, as all of them are qualified in helping with that issue.
3. Yes, Mike and I are moving out of the city. We're moving to Craig. I wanted to wait until things were a little more definite, but since no one can just sit tight and wait for me to get around to telling everyone, I might as well do it now. Thanks for not being patient. Awesome.
4. Believe it or not, my mother doesn't know everything that is going on, and she doesn't tell Josh and me everything. Whoever started the rumor that she can't keep secrets, look in a mirror!
5. Much to your dismay, my world doesn't revolve around you.
So, now that I've established the points, let me elaborate a little.
Not pregnant yet. Wednesday, I go in to have an xray done, to make sure that there are no blocks in the fallopian tubes. Once I get that test out of the way, we can proceed to figure out what else is going on. I'm still on Clomid, and I'm dealing with the side effects of that. It's a little daunting and a bit upsetting that no one, except my mother and Mike had bothered to ask me how I'm doing, and help me through what I'm dealing with. It sucks to realize how much your family "cares." Whatever. I know where I stand, and have stood for years. Thanks for making it even more obvious.
You might be confused as to why I put my OB's name in the blog. I'm tired of people asking my mom if I am pregnant, getting the answer of no, and then proceeding to tell her that "oh, I know people at work who are struggling and would like the name of her doctor so that I can point these people in the right direction." Honestly, if these people have any brains of their own, they might know how to look it up themselves, or hell, why not just ask your OB that you have? As I mentioned above, every OB is qualified to help in that area. Oh, and thanks for rubbing salt in the open wound about my having a hard time getting pregnant. I appreciate it.
Mike has accepted a position in Craig, Colorado. It's a nice smaller town, with so much out there for us. Mike's new job will allow him to continue to grow as a pharmacist and as an individual. Memorial, here in the Springs, is like prison, except the prisoners these days have more freedom than Mike ever got at that toxic place. So, yes, we are moving. I'm not sure when, and I'm not sure how long it will take. We meet with a realtor to sign contracts and get the ball rolling. I've been packing already and sorting things for a garage sale. We are having landscapers and painters come out to take care of the house to make it more sell able. If you know of anyone who is looking for a house, point them in our direction.
I know that someone in the family has mentioned more than once how my mother cannot keep a secret from anyone. "Don't tell Cheryl, or else everyone in the world will know." Really? Really?! Have you looked in a mirror lately? I know that I caused huge waves when everyone found out that Mike and I were already married before the actual ceremony day, and guess what, my mom knew about it, and once people started to ask her if she knew, they got pissed off at her for keeping a secret...isn't that what you're all complaining she can't do? So, my mom has known about this move for a while, and I suspect that you've picked up on that fact too, or else the hounding wouldn't have happened. Either way, it's a low blow. Leave the woman alone, and if you have questions about me, Mike or our lives, pick up the phone or connect to your email and get a hold of us yourselves. Stop going through my mother, who has enough on her plate to deal with as it is. We are not in freaking high school or the fourth grade. Let's be adults...
Oh and with number 5...this isn't just pointing at family, but people who are no longer in my life, and friends as well. Believe it or not, my life isn't revolving around you. I don't wake up and think about you, I don't go to sleep wondering what you're up to, and I don't stare at my phone, or check my email in hopes of hearing from you. And what I write in this blog, isn't directed solely at you. Grow the freak up already! You do this to everyone, including your family, so move on. I'm so sick and tired of these stupid games of wanting attention. I don't care! I do have other people in my life other than those who chose to walk away. I'm much better for that choice, don't get me wrong, and I'll never look back on it with sad undertones.
So, I apologize if this completely ruins your thoughts of me, but as I said just a moment ago, I don't care. It's not like it's going to change anything, simply because no one is going to grow up and act their age. It's freaking simple. You want to know about me, or my life, just freaking call or email me. Yes, I am pissed off right now, for good reason. This is the quickest way to piss me off, by going to those around me to ask about me. It's childish, and it needs to stop. You want to make life easier in the sense of having a "Together" family, then stop singling certain members out of the family, stop hiding your plans to go to some one's house, and not invite certain people. Yes, I know all about the outing to the house in Peyton, where a certain someone lives, and my mother, brother and his family and me and mine were not invited. Whatever. It just goes to show where we stand. In the words of some people in this family, "We're not stupid. We can read between the lines and connect the dots."
I'm sorry if this seems too harsh, but frankly, I'm sick of this behavior. Am I really the only grown up left? Oops, I think I've spoken too soon...here come the cement shoes...
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Opportunities Always Present Themselves
Hey everyone!
So I had a little down time, before things got crazy busy once more, so I'll have to keep this one short. Unless, of course, I can type fast! =)
Lots of great news have been coming our way, but I need to keep you in suspense just a little while longer. We are hoping that things will wrap up soon, and then I'll be able to let it all out! I'm excited to share them with you, but until then, just sit tight!
Today, I have a bridal shower to attend. My best friend's sister is getting married next month, so this is the shower, and I know there is a bachelorette shower in the works, though I am not sure that I'll be able to attend that one, then again, who knows?
As you might have seen in the last post, I made my cupcakes, but they sort of imploded on themselves. Even my friend's cupcakes did the same thing! She did tell me that once in a while her oven does that, so I know it wasn't any baking error on my end! They still taste great, though they are a bit on the rich side for me. Mike likes them, so that is all that matters! I might try that recipe again another time, but right now, it's too crazy to even think about doing something that time consuming! I was supposed to make Twix Brownies, but Mike and I demolished the Twix, and that recipe will be put on hold.
Mike is excited for dinner tonight, as I am making another batch of the Sausage, Egg and Buiscut casserole. If you haven't tried this yet, you must! This is a fabulous meal, and great for breakfasts!
I will be hosting a garage sale on the 8th, 9th and 10th next month at my friend's house! Starting time will be at 8am and closes at 5pm, most likely. With school being out, this seems to be the perfect time. I still need to go through our stuff and make sure that I have everything for the sale, and then I need to buy stickers and signs, as Target's selection was nil. Maybe I'll just make one out of cardboard or something. It's worked in the past, then again, there are other stores that I can try. =) So, feel free to stop by! Just let me know if you want the address of the sale and I'll send it along!
Thursday, my lovely mother came over to help me finally finish the dresser. With all these crazy things going on in my life at the moment, I have to say that my mom did all of the work on Thursday. The dresser looks amazing, and I'm very thankful that she took the time to help out. I'll post pictures as soon as the stain has had proper time to set and I can put the drawers back in. Even Mike saw it when he got home that day and said that it looks beautiful. Of course, anything is better than five layers of paint, with the final paint color being yellow. Honestly, painting antiques or wood in general, should be outlawed! If you don't like the look of wood, don't buy it! It's that simple. But, with a lot of hard work, it's finally finished and I can't wait to start using it!
Mike has a massage later today, and he truly needs it! Poor guy has so many knots in his back and feet, that I can only do so much before he just needs to get someone to really pound them out. He'll feel better for it too, so I know that this is a good thing. Maybe he'll use the hot tub tonight as well, but we'll see.
It was raining here a little bit ago, and it felt so nice to be out in it, even for a short spell. I miss the rain, but I don't miss the rain that I experienced in Galway. That was too cold, and too much at the same time. I just wish we got it here more often.
I ran into the sister of someone I knew today, and I just smiled and moved on. I'm not going to be the one to cause problems, and I'm not going to be the one to hold a grudge. I don't care if it gets back to her sister that she saw me, and frankly, it doesn't matter what is said about me. I'm a much happier person moving on. Oh my gosh, could it be that I've realized how much better off I am? I guess that is a sign of being strong enough to walk away...
This last Wednesday, as Mike was busy finishing up some important meetings with landscapers and such, I was busy getting fillings. I have two more to get on Monday. Yay me! (yes, I'm being facetious) It's not so bad actually, all things considered. It's been about three years since my last visit, and I already knew about one of them.
Mike and I have more appointments this coming Wednesday, and then the week after that. There are a lot of things going on, but better now than to wait until things fall apart. I figure, once these appointments are over, we'll have answers and we will also be able to move along in our busy lives!
Well, I don't think that there is much more to update you on. I've got a ton of things to accomplish before the shower this afternoon. So, I better get a move on.
Until next time!
So I had a little down time, before things got crazy busy once more, so I'll have to keep this one short. Unless, of course, I can type fast! =)
Lots of great news have been coming our way, but I need to keep you in suspense just a little while longer. We are hoping that things will wrap up soon, and then I'll be able to let it all out! I'm excited to share them with you, but until then, just sit tight!
Today, I have a bridal shower to attend. My best friend's sister is getting married next month, so this is the shower, and I know there is a bachelorette shower in the works, though I am not sure that I'll be able to attend that one, then again, who knows?
As you might have seen in the last post, I made my cupcakes, but they sort of imploded on themselves. Even my friend's cupcakes did the same thing! She did tell me that once in a while her oven does that, so I know it wasn't any baking error on my end! They still taste great, though they are a bit on the rich side for me. Mike likes them, so that is all that matters! I might try that recipe again another time, but right now, it's too crazy to even think about doing something that time consuming! I was supposed to make Twix Brownies, but Mike and I demolished the Twix, and that recipe will be put on hold.
Mike is excited for dinner tonight, as I am making another batch of the Sausage, Egg and Buiscut casserole. If you haven't tried this yet, you must! This is a fabulous meal, and great for breakfasts!
I will be hosting a garage sale on the 8th, 9th and 10th next month at my friend's house! Starting time will be at 8am and closes at 5pm, most likely. With school being out, this seems to be the perfect time. I still need to go through our stuff and make sure that I have everything for the sale, and then I need to buy stickers and signs, as Target's selection was nil. Maybe I'll just make one out of cardboard or something. It's worked in the past, then again, there are other stores that I can try. =) So, feel free to stop by! Just let me know if you want the address of the sale and I'll send it along!
Thursday, my lovely mother came over to help me finally finish the dresser. With all these crazy things going on in my life at the moment, I have to say that my mom did all of the work on Thursday. The dresser looks amazing, and I'm very thankful that she took the time to help out. I'll post pictures as soon as the stain has had proper time to set and I can put the drawers back in. Even Mike saw it when he got home that day and said that it looks beautiful. Of course, anything is better than five layers of paint, with the final paint color being yellow. Honestly, painting antiques or wood in general, should be outlawed! If you don't like the look of wood, don't buy it! It's that simple. But, with a lot of hard work, it's finally finished and I can't wait to start using it!
Mike has a massage later today, and he truly needs it! Poor guy has so many knots in his back and feet, that I can only do so much before he just needs to get someone to really pound them out. He'll feel better for it too, so I know that this is a good thing. Maybe he'll use the hot tub tonight as well, but we'll see.
It was raining here a little bit ago, and it felt so nice to be out in it, even for a short spell. I miss the rain, but I don't miss the rain that I experienced in Galway. That was too cold, and too much at the same time. I just wish we got it here more often.
I ran into the sister of someone I knew today, and I just smiled and moved on. I'm not going to be the one to cause problems, and I'm not going to be the one to hold a grudge. I don't care if it gets back to her sister that she saw me, and frankly, it doesn't matter what is said about me. I'm a much happier person moving on. Oh my gosh, could it be that I've realized how much better off I am? I guess that is a sign of being strong enough to walk away...
This last Wednesday, as Mike was busy finishing up some important meetings with landscapers and such, I was busy getting fillings. I have two more to get on Monday. Yay me! (yes, I'm being facetious) It's not so bad actually, all things considered. It's been about three years since my last visit, and I already knew about one of them.
Mike and I have more appointments this coming Wednesday, and then the week after that. There are a lot of things going on, but better now than to wait until things fall apart. I figure, once these appointments are over, we'll have answers and we will also be able to move along in our busy lives!
Well, I don't think that there is much more to update you on. I've got a ton of things to accomplish before the shower this afternoon. So, I better get a move on.
Until next time!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon-Blueberry Buttercream
This is a brand new recipe that I found that just sounded so good! At first, I thought that the recipe was a little daunting, but really, it was pretty easy to make. I went to my good friend's house to bake them at our little cupcake baking day before catching a movie and dinner. For some unknown reason, her oven caused our cupcakes to implode on themselves. It didn't really matter too much on mine, as they needed to be a little hollowed out for the lemon curd, but it was a shock to open the oven door to see that they were all craters! After laughing for a good five minutes or so, we just made it possible with what we had available to us. They were still really good, rich, but good!
For the Cake:
2 1/4 cup cake flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cup buttermilk, room temp
4 large egg white, room temp
1 1/2 cup sugar
lemon zest from 2 lemons
1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter, unsalted, room temp
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon pure lemon extract
For the Lemon Curd:
1 cup white sugar
3 eggs
1 cup fresh lemon juice (4-5 lemons)
zest of 3 lemons
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Buttercream:
4 sticks unsalted butter, softened
2 pounds confectioners' sugar, sifted
pinch of fine grain sea salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup blueberries, fresh, pureed with 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1-3 tablespoons cold milk (add until you reach desired consistency)
Directions for the Cake;
Center a rack in the oven to 350*. Line cupcake tins with paper liners, or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder and salt.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk and egg whites.
Place the sugar and lemon zest in the bowl of your mixer or another large bowl and rub them together with your fingers until the sugar is moist and fragrant.
Add the butter and working with the paddle or whisk attachment, or with a hand mixer, beat at medium speed for full 3 minutes, until butter and sugar are very light.
Beat in extracts, then add 1/3 of the flour mixture, still beating on medium speed.
Beat in half of the milk-egg mixture, followed by half of the remaining flour mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Add the rest of the milk-egg mixture, beating until the batter is homogeneous.
Add the last of the flour mixture.
Finally, give the batter a good 2 minute beating to ensure that it is thoroughly mixed and well aerated.
Using a large scoop (3 tablespoons), distribute the batter between 24 muffin wells, filling each well 2/3 full.
Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the cupcakes are springy to the touch and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.
Once the cupcakes have cooled, hollow out a small circle in the center of each cupcake. You can use an apple corer to be more precise.
Directions for the Lemon Curd:
In a large microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until smooth and thoroughly combined. Whisk in lemon juice, lemon zest and butter.
Cook in the microwave on full power for one minute intervals, stirring after each minute. This process will take about 2-3 minutes, depending on your microwave. You will know when the lemon curd is done cooking when it coats the back of a metal spoon.
Remove from the microwave and allow to cool completely before filling cupcakes.
Pipe or spoon in the curd into each hollowed cupcake and top with buttercream.
Directions for the Buttercream:
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter until fluffy. Slowly add in confectioners' sugar, and continue creaming until well blended.
Add salt, vanilla, lemon zest*, and blueberry puree* and mix until combined.
If buttercream is too thick, slowly drizzle in milk until you reach the desired consistency.
Beat at high speed until frosting is smooth and fluffy.
*Notes: In the buttercream, I didn't have enough lemons to use zest so I just added a bit of lemon extract instead.
For the blueberry puree, if you don't have a food processor, as I didn't at my friend's house, I just mashed the blueberries with the lemon juice, which I had to use bottle juice instead of fresh, due to lack of lemons.
If you want more lemon kick, add more zest.
If you want extremely fine zest, use a zester.
Cupcakes are best served the day that they are made, but you can store them cover in the fridge up to two weeks. Bring them to room temperature before serving.
Enjoy!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Amazon Virgins in Colorado!
Hey everyone!
Things have been finally falling into place! The next few weeks and possibly months are going to be crazy busy!
First, let me try and catch you up on the very minimal things that I have to share.
Today, I'm going to spend most of my time contacting some landscapers to have them come out and give us some estimates on getting the yard taken care of. Mike keeps bouncing back and forth (for good reason) on whether we should xeriscape or lay sod. Either way, they should be able to give us an idea of what to expect.
I have a few new recipes that I have coming up that I am excited to try! There will be a cupcake recipe, brownie recipe, and I'm not 100% positive on any entrees, but knowing me, I'll fine something! So, keep looking for new recipes! I'll try to be disciplined enough to keep up with the posting!
Working out after having two weeks off is a killer! I missed working out and it feels great to be able to work out again, not to mention the company is great! It makes working out more fun and the time feels shorter as you're talking and laughing together. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's work out already!
In the next few days, I want to make a few trips out to a few locations here in the area to start taking pictures. I'm going to be expanding my portfolio and getting some new things up on the site, as well as taking some down. I need to be even more selective in what I have to offer online. It was a really long process the first time that I did it, but I know that it's just the first step. I'll need to find some time in my busy schedule to sit down and look through very thoroughly!
Mike and I ended up having to take our PS3 into Best Buy to have it worked on. Apparently, our hard drive decided to flake out and will need to be replaced. We should be getting our new one Friday, or Monday by the latest. It's tough, because we spend a lot of time on that machine. The first day that we took it in, we were trying to figure out what to play. We ended up playing on the Wii, which we haven't messed with since we got the PS3...Wii sports is a workout in itself! I had forgotten how much fun it is, but how you feel it if you play hard and for a long time too! Regardless of how much fun that system is, we are looking forward to getting our replacement!
Not only are we sad that the PS3 is getting worked on and isn't here, but I convinced Mike to buy a dancing game...that's right. You read that correctly. A dancing game. I played one at a girls' night a few weeks ago, and regardless of my not knowing the songs, it was pretty fun to play. It's also a really easy way to burn some calories while having fun. Mike even said that he would be willing to play with me. (That's what she said?) The man can't dance, so hopefully this will help him find his groove! =) Love you babe!
A couple days ago, I reorganized our pantry. Each time I open it now, I sigh happily! It was really cluttered! Mike took most of the blame, but I told him that we were both guilty of it. I'm hoping to keep it organized for a while...I know that it will never be perfect all the time, but at least a month or so, and I'll be happy!
My wildflower seeds have started to appear above the soil. I'm excited to see them! Granted, they have to grow quickly, or I fear the season will be past, or we will be on another exciting adventure! I'm also really happy that none of the plants have died since the last frost that we had. It's funny to watch the snow pile up on the mountains and we are in the 60s or higher....gotta love Colorado weather!
I'm trying to convince Mike to get our garage sale up and going. We've been talking about doing on for the past year or so, and this time, with all of the stuff piled up in the garage and in our basement, not to mention things that we still need to go through, we'll most likely do it soon...like this summer! I'm looking forward to it.
I've also got to find a local painter for our house. Granted, Mike and I haven't discussed colors, but I've looked at them, and marked my choices. Now, I just have to wait on Mike to sit down and look over them and agree or disagree with my selections. Either way, it will make the house nicer to look at, as it is in desperate need of a new paint job!
Tomorrow, Mike and I will be going over to my good friend's house for game night, and then I'm going to see about going out for some hiking with her on Saturday! Should make for a fun but busy weekend!
On this last Tuesday, Mike and I tried a brand new restaurant in the area called Tuscanos. It's supposedly a Brazilian place, but it didn't seem like it was true ethnic food. Maybe it is, I don't know, as I've never been to Brazil. It was really good. It had both of us thinking about our lunch there for days after. The place has a huge triangular eclectic salad bar, amazing drinks and instead of ordering from a menu, the servers walk from table to table with grilled meats for you to select in tasting! Mike had a pineapple lemonade, and I had what they called The Amazon. When we got our check, it said that we ordered an Amazon Virgin. I ended up having to take a picture of that, and sharing it online! The joke became something along the lines of being able to order Virgin Amazons in Colorado... It was a great experience, and I'm looking forward to our next outing there. The price, of course, was pretty pricey, but for what you are getting, it's totally worth it. Mike had heard from numerous co-workers that it was good, but the wait to get in was backed up. We just walked in during lunch hours in the week and was able to get a table. Maybe it depends on lunch versus dinner, and weekday to weekend? Either way, highly recommended!
Things have been pretty amazing in our world. There is also more good news coming, and I'm going to have to leave you hanging with that.
Until next time!
Things have been finally falling into place! The next few weeks and possibly months are going to be crazy busy!
First, let me try and catch you up on the very minimal things that I have to share.
Today, I'm going to spend most of my time contacting some landscapers to have them come out and give us some estimates on getting the yard taken care of. Mike keeps bouncing back and forth (for good reason) on whether we should xeriscape or lay sod. Either way, they should be able to give us an idea of what to expect.
I have a few new recipes that I have coming up that I am excited to try! There will be a cupcake recipe, brownie recipe, and I'm not 100% positive on any entrees, but knowing me, I'll fine something! So, keep looking for new recipes! I'll try to be disciplined enough to keep up with the posting!
Working out after having two weeks off is a killer! I missed working out and it feels great to be able to work out again, not to mention the company is great! It makes working out more fun and the time feels shorter as you're talking and laughing together. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's work out already!
In the next few days, I want to make a few trips out to a few locations here in the area to start taking pictures. I'm going to be expanding my portfolio and getting some new things up on the site, as well as taking some down. I need to be even more selective in what I have to offer online. It was a really long process the first time that I did it, but I know that it's just the first step. I'll need to find some time in my busy schedule to sit down and look through very thoroughly!
Mike and I ended up having to take our PS3 into Best Buy to have it worked on. Apparently, our hard drive decided to flake out and will need to be replaced. We should be getting our new one Friday, or Monday by the latest. It's tough, because we spend a lot of time on that machine. The first day that we took it in, we were trying to figure out what to play. We ended up playing on the Wii, which we haven't messed with since we got the PS3...Wii sports is a workout in itself! I had forgotten how much fun it is, but how you feel it if you play hard and for a long time too! Regardless of how much fun that system is, we are looking forward to getting our replacement!
Not only are we sad that the PS3 is getting worked on and isn't here, but I convinced Mike to buy a dancing game...that's right. You read that correctly. A dancing game. I played one at a girls' night a few weeks ago, and regardless of my not knowing the songs, it was pretty fun to play. It's also a really easy way to burn some calories while having fun. Mike even said that he would be willing to play with me. (That's what she said?) The man can't dance, so hopefully this will help him find his groove! =) Love you babe!
A couple days ago, I reorganized our pantry. Each time I open it now, I sigh happily! It was really cluttered! Mike took most of the blame, but I told him that we were both guilty of it. I'm hoping to keep it organized for a while...I know that it will never be perfect all the time, but at least a month or so, and I'll be happy!
My wildflower seeds have started to appear above the soil. I'm excited to see them! Granted, they have to grow quickly, or I fear the season will be past, or we will be on another exciting adventure! I'm also really happy that none of the plants have died since the last frost that we had. It's funny to watch the snow pile up on the mountains and we are in the 60s or higher....gotta love Colorado weather!
I'm trying to convince Mike to get our garage sale up and going. We've been talking about doing on for the past year or so, and this time, with all of the stuff piled up in the garage and in our basement, not to mention things that we still need to go through, we'll most likely do it soon...like this summer! I'm looking forward to it.
I've also got to find a local painter for our house. Granted, Mike and I haven't discussed colors, but I've looked at them, and marked my choices. Now, I just have to wait on Mike to sit down and look over them and agree or disagree with my selections. Either way, it will make the house nicer to look at, as it is in desperate need of a new paint job!
Tomorrow, Mike and I will be going over to my good friend's house for game night, and then I'm going to see about going out for some hiking with her on Saturday! Should make for a fun but busy weekend!
On this last Tuesday, Mike and I tried a brand new restaurant in the area called Tuscanos. It's supposedly a Brazilian place, but it didn't seem like it was true ethnic food. Maybe it is, I don't know, as I've never been to Brazil. It was really good. It had both of us thinking about our lunch there for days after. The place has a huge triangular eclectic salad bar, amazing drinks and instead of ordering from a menu, the servers walk from table to table with grilled meats for you to select in tasting! Mike had a pineapple lemonade, and I had what they called The Amazon. When we got our check, it said that we ordered an Amazon Virgin. I ended up having to take a picture of that, and sharing it online! The joke became something along the lines of being able to order Virgin Amazons in Colorado... It was a great experience, and I'm looking forward to our next outing there. The price, of course, was pretty pricey, but for what you are getting, it's totally worth it. Mike had heard from numerous co-workers that it was good, but the wait to get in was backed up. We just walked in during lunch hours in the week and was able to get a table. Maybe it depends on lunch versus dinner, and weekday to weekend? Either way, highly recommended!
Things have been pretty amazing in our world. There is also more good news coming, and I'm going to have to leave you hanging with that.
Until next time!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Recipe: Garlic Cheddar Chicken
I had this recipe on my menu list for weeks. Every time it would come time to make it, we'd either be out of town or eating sushi...but once we finally got home from our trips, I pulled the chicken out of the freezer and decided to get cooking! This is a very easy meal to make, and super delicious! This is definitely a mouth-watering meal and it will be on the menu again soon!
Here's the recipe:
1/2 cup butter
4 cloves of garlic, minced
3/4 cup dry bread crumbs (I used a garlic & herb mix)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (No fresh stuff? No worries, use the prepacked stuff)
1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt
8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves-pounded thin (I didn't pound mine)
Preheat oven to 350*.
Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat, and cook the garlic until tender, about 5 minutes.
In a shallow bowl, mix the bread crumbs, cheeses, and spices.
Dip each chicken breast in the garlic butter to coat, then press into the bread crumb mixture.
Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a 9x13 pan. Drizzle any remaining butter and top with remaining bread crumb mixture.
Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.
Enjoy!
Sunday, May 6, 2012
How Much Higher Can We Go?
Hey everyone!
Things have been super busy, but have been super great!
So there have been many bumps in the road, but for the most part, they have been pretty trivial. I don't even think they have impacted my life in the slightest!
Mike and I needed the week break that we just got back from. We grew closer as a couple, but just as friends too. It is always nice to be able to laugh, joke, smile, talk and just be in each other's company and have this amazing silence, and still know that we love each other and will have a lifetime of this together. There isn't a problem that comes up in our lives that we can't face together, supporting each other and helping one another through it, if the situation warrants it. I'm very grateful that I have such an amazing and perfect (to me) man in my life. I've never had to worry about anything when I think over our past, present and our future. I can't wait to see where this will go!
Spending a week in the mountains of Colorado, really helped reset our lives. We were able to get away from the drama in our lives, whether from work or people, perhaps both, but it was just nice to have a little vacation again. I loved our trip to Estes Park, and sight-seeing and shopping, and I can't wait to go back! We even spent a couple of days near Steamboat Springs, and had a good time together! We've talked about the day when we could go on our next International trip, and Mike is already planning that one! We travel exceptionally well with one another, that I can't wait to see where we go next!
Sadly, the trip had to come to an end, and we're back home. It still feels as though we just got back, even though we've been back for a few days. Guess that is the coming down from the trip's high feeling...
Mike and I talked about getting our yard taken care of with some Xeriscaping, and I'm not sure when that will start. I think we discussed getting someone out by Wednesday, but who knows?
This last Friday, I got to go to girls' night with some amazing women. It felt really good to see them again, and talk. We had dinner at Old Chicago's and then went bowling. I haven't been bowling, real bowling, in forever! Needless to say, I was the lowest scoring adult there...but that's okay. I had a good coach in the daughter of a good friend of mine. =) There wasn't many of us there, but the ones that showed up are great people, and I look forward to seeing them again in a couple weeks! One of them, is my workout buddy and great friend, so I am looking forward to working out with her again tomorrow! It's been a long two week hiatus because of the trip, but I'm excited to get back into the swing of things again.
Mike and I have been looking through some real estate and I must say that I have seen a lot of great looking houses! I've told him time and again, that I'm not one of those crazy women who feels that we must have a new house to call "ours" because it was either bought before them, or when it was with another spouse/significant other. I'm so not like that. I don't care either way. Honestly, we've done so many changes to this house, that it is ours. It's been ours when my things crossed the threshold. He smiles and tells me that he knows, so nothing is too serious...yet. =) Who knows what the future could hold?
I was a little bummed last night because it was super cloudy, and I couldn't get any pictures of the moon. Even when I woke up early, it wasn't very big, and it was still pretty cloudy! Why is it that every time some spectacular lunar event happens, we have storms or clouds? Oh well, there is always next year!
Tomorrow, I need to get some labs drawn. Not looking forward to the vampires that work at Memorial to suck the blood from me, but it has to be done. Okay, I admit, it's not that bad, but it all depends on who you get. There have been some techs that are not very good at what they do, and I have to request a butterfly needle, then there is no issue...I just pray that isn't the case this time, as I will have to do more labs again on Saturday! Yay! Of course, none of these labs are as bad as the time they took 12 vials of blood from me, and the tech was afraid I'd pass out. I currently hold the record in the family as the most vials...any volunteers to top that? =)
I'm looking forward to some new cooking! I picked up a bunch of different ingredients to make my granola bars again. This time, I have stuff to make them with chocolate, butterscotch, peanut butter, caramel, and toffee! There are also a few new entrees that I am looking forward to making as well. I am still searching for a recipe, and I might have found it the other day, for a gluten-free ravioli. My mom mentioned as she was watching my niece, who was eating ravioli for lunch, that it smells so good, and she wished she could have it again. If I can perfect the recipe, and fully intend to make it for her. Who knows? Maybe soon, I will be able to make my own cookbook. Should be fun!
Mother's Day is coming up, and of course, I'd like to take my mother out for lunch, but she may be going out of town. I did make her a photo book of the two of us, but it's tough when there are very little pictures of the two of us together. My mom said that it was because she was taking the pictures, but she has a lot of her and my brother. She couldn't explain that one. Either way, she and my step-dad liked the book a lot. It was a bit bigger than I was expecting, but oh well. I'm glad that she likes it and is proudly displaying it!
Mike and I discussed the possibility of me opening my own store for my photography. Granted, don't get too excited as this is just talk at this point, and we are not researching anything. Just the thought of having a shop and displaying my work, and selling it sounds really exciting! Of course, we also talked about me opening my own bakery too...and that could happen as well, but once again, nothing is set in stone! Strictly talk at this point, but because I'm super excited, I had to share it!
Well, I don't think that there is much more to update you on. There will be a lot of things coming up in the next few weeks, and tons of good news to follow! I can't wait! I've never realized that life could be this grand, but then again, once you let go of the negative things that hold you down, you start to see things in a brighter and happier light and you enjoy life more! So, here's with letting go the bad, and flying to the good!
Until next time!
Things have been super busy, but have been super great!
So there have been many bumps in the road, but for the most part, they have been pretty trivial. I don't even think they have impacted my life in the slightest!
Mike and I needed the week break that we just got back from. We grew closer as a couple, but just as friends too. It is always nice to be able to laugh, joke, smile, talk and just be in each other's company and have this amazing silence, and still know that we love each other and will have a lifetime of this together. There isn't a problem that comes up in our lives that we can't face together, supporting each other and helping one another through it, if the situation warrants it. I'm very grateful that I have such an amazing and perfect (to me) man in my life. I've never had to worry about anything when I think over our past, present and our future. I can't wait to see where this will go!
Spending a week in the mountains of Colorado, really helped reset our lives. We were able to get away from the drama in our lives, whether from work or people, perhaps both, but it was just nice to have a little vacation again. I loved our trip to Estes Park, and sight-seeing and shopping, and I can't wait to go back! We even spent a couple of days near Steamboat Springs, and had a good time together! We've talked about the day when we could go on our next International trip, and Mike is already planning that one! We travel exceptionally well with one another, that I can't wait to see where we go next!
Sadly, the trip had to come to an end, and we're back home. It still feels as though we just got back, even though we've been back for a few days. Guess that is the coming down from the trip's high feeling...
Mike and I talked about getting our yard taken care of with some Xeriscaping, and I'm not sure when that will start. I think we discussed getting someone out by Wednesday, but who knows?
This last Friday, I got to go to girls' night with some amazing women. It felt really good to see them again, and talk. We had dinner at Old Chicago's and then went bowling. I haven't been bowling, real bowling, in forever! Needless to say, I was the lowest scoring adult there...but that's okay. I had a good coach in the daughter of a good friend of mine. =) There wasn't many of us there, but the ones that showed up are great people, and I look forward to seeing them again in a couple weeks! One of them, is my workout buddy and great friend, so I am looking forward to working out with her again tomorrow! It's been a long two week hiatus because of the trip, but I'm excited to get back into the swing of things again.
Mike and I have been looking through some real estate and I must say that I have seen a lot of great looking houses! I've told him time and again, that I'm not one of those crazy women who feels that we must have a new house to call "ours" because it was either bought before them, or when it was with another spouse/significant other. I'm so not like that. I don't care either way. Honestly, we've done so many changes to this house, that it is ours. It's been ours when my things crossed the threshold. He smiles and tells me that he knows, so nothing is too serious...yet. =) Who knows what the future could hold?
I was a little bummed last night because it was super cloudy, and I couldn't get any pictures of the moon. Even when I woke up early, it wasn't very big, and it was still pretty cloudy! Why is it that every time some spectacular lunar event happens, we have storms or clouds? Oh well, there is always next year!
Tomorrow, I need to get some labs drawn. Not looking forward to the vampires that work at Memorial to suck the blood from me, but it has to be done. Okay, I admit, it's not that bad, but it all depends on who you get. There have been some techs that are not very good at what they do, and I have to request a butterfly needle, then there is no issue...I just pray that isn't the case this time, as I will have to do more labs again on Saturday! Yay! Of course, none of these labs are as bad as the time they took 12 vials of blood from me, and the tech was afraid I'd pass out. I currently hold the record in the family as the most vials...any volunteers to top that? =)
I'm looking forward to some new cooking! I picked up a bunch of different ingredients to make my granola bars again. This time, I have stuff to make them with chocolate, butterscotch, peanut butter, caramel, and toffee! There are also a few new entrees that I am looking forward to making as well. I am still searching for a recipe, and I might have found it the other day, for a gluten-free ravioli. My mom mentioned as she was watching my niece, who was eating ravioli for lunch, that it smells so good, and she wished she could have it again. If I can perfect the recipe, and fully intend to make it for her. Who knows? Maybe soon, I will be able to make my own cookbook. Should be fun!
Mother's Day is coming up, and of course, I'd like to take my mother out for lunch, but she may be going out of town. I did make her a photo book of the two of us, but it's tough when there are very little pictures of the two of us together. My mom said that it was because she was taking the pictures, but she has a lot of her and my brother. She couldn't explain that one. Either way, she and my step-dad liked the book a lot. It was a bit bigger than I was expecting, but oh well. I'm glad that she likes it and is proudly displaying it!
Mike and I discussed the possibility of me opening my own store for my photography. Granted, don't get too excited as this is just talk at this point, and we are not researching anything. Just the thought of having a shop and displaying my work, and selling it sounds really exciting! Of course, we also talked about me opening my own bakery too...and that could happen as well, but once again, nothing is set in stone! Strictly talk at this point, but because I'm super excited, I had to share it!
Well, I don't think that there is much more to update you on. There will be a lot of things coming up in the next few weeks, and tons of good news to follow! I can't wait! I've never realized that life could be this grand, but then again, once you let go of the negative things that hold you down, you start to see things in a brighter and happier light and you enjoy life more! So, here's with letting go the bad, and flying to the good!
Until next time!
Recipe: Coriander & Ginger-Crusted Tuna with Lomi Tomatoes
I am officially fallen in love with my cookbooks! I have become such a foodie! I'm getting more creative and more adventurous in my meals! I don't hear Mike complaining either, expect that there are not many leftovers!
This meal was a cinch to make, and was so healthy for us! Mike helped me prep and cooked on the grill for me, so this was a team effort!
Here's the recipe:
Coriander & Ginger-Crusted Tuna
For the tuna:
1 tablespoon coriander seeds (I had ground already)
1 teaspoon black peppercorns (I had white peppercorns)
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon coarse Hawaiian red salt or kosher salt
2 teaspoons sesame or olive oil (I used olive)
4 ahi tuna steaks (I just bought 2 yellow fin tuna steaks)
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush grill grate with oil, or use grill spray.
Grind coriander seeds, peppercorns, ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a coffee grinder* until course. Brush tuna with oil and rub spice mixture on both sides of each piece of tuna.
Grill tuna, covered, 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare; remove to a plate.
For the Lomi Tomato salad:
1 pound tomatoes, sliced into wedges
3/4 cup sliced sweet white onion (such as Maui)
1/2 cup sliced scallions (I didn't have any, but can't wait to try it with them!)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
2 teaspoons coarse Hawaiian red sea salt or kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
black pepper to taste
Toss the tomatoes, onion, scallions, oil, sesame seeds, salt and pepper flakes in a bowl with you hands until blended. Season mixture with black pepper, cover and chill for at least 1 hour.
*Note: We used a mortar and pestle for our spices, if your using all ground, then just mix thoroughly.
There is also a puree sauce to go with this tuna meal, but I didn't make it this time. Next time I make this, I will be sure to include the sauce!
Enjoy!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Adventures in the Rocky Mountains
Hey everyone!
It has been quite a while since I have last written anything, at least, that is how it feels! I actually have a little spare time to do some updating before things get crazy again...today!
So let me see, Mike had asked for some time off this last few days to go to a CE (continuing education) conference in Reno, but a week before the trip, he was finally approved by his management. Gotta love the last minute disrespect, huh? So because we couldn't go to Reno, we decided that we would take a nice trip into the mountains.
Mike booked a nice lodge in Estes Park, Colorado for us to stay in. We even got a night free! We were nestled in the mountains, no matter which window you looked out of, you'd see mountains and trees and elk! Our first night there, we got into our private hot tub on our balcony and watched the lightning show on the other side of the mountain. It wasn't until the wind started to pick up that we felt the need to go inside.
Our first day in Estes Park was spent packing up a little breakfast/brunch and heading to Rocky Mountain National, as they waived their entrance fees for the week. Because it was off season, meant that a lot of the roads were still closed down due to snow...that's right, snow! We had beautiful days with clear weather, a few clouds, but it was gorgeous!
We stopped a few times, but it was super windy! When we reached the top of one of the peaks, we got out of our car, and I couldn't walk. The wind was so strong, that I was leaning backwards, and not falling on my rear, until Mike decided to step into the wind, breaking the force behind me, and thankfully, he caught me, or else I would have been hurting! The wind did cause me to twist my knee a little, but the next morning it was fine.
There were a ton of elk! We started down one side of the park, and there on my side was about 20 or so, and on the other side was about 50 or more. Did I mention the elk? =) They weren't overly skittish, and we were able to get pictures of them, however, Mike's camera decided that it's life was over, and we weren't able to grab any pictures of us with them. =(
We walked through the gift shop, but were very disappointed and shocked by the expensive prices of their merchandise. I saw a few things that were cute and neat, but I wasn't about to spend that kind of money for them!
During the tour, there was an elderly woman who continued to try and give me her things. My knee-jerk reaction was to take them from her, thinking that she wanted me to take a picture of her, or maybe she needed to tie her shoe or something, but she kept apologizing to me, because she was mistaking me for her daughter/daughter in law. I asked Mike if I looked anything like her, as she was much heavier and shorter than me. Mike laughed, thinking I was joking, but I was serious. How does one mistake someone three times for someone they look nothing like?
Our last day before leaving town was spent going to breakfast...which we tried to find using Trip Advisor, but it kept taking us to a house...it wasn't the cafe for breakfast that we were in search of. We skipped that place as we couldn't locate it and ate somewhere else. After breakfast, we headed to a local winery and sampled ten different wines. Mike, of course, selected five red wines and I selected a white, a dessert and three Mead's. We ended up buying six bottles out of all the ones we tried. They were really tasty!
After our wine tasting, we walked the now open shops of Estes Park, and ended up doing a little Christmas shopping too! I laughed as I told Mike that I felt it would be shocking to many people if I were to state that Christmas shopping was done! Granted, we weren't going to go crazy, but there were a few things that we couldn't help but pick up for family.
We left Estes Park on day four and headed the very scenic route home. This was a great trip!
Mike had to work on Monday, and Tuesday, I had jury duty. I was hoping to be a lucky person and not have to go in, but no such luck.
Then they brought a judge in and he did his big "ra-ra" speech, telling us that it's a right for us to be there, and blah blah blah. My thought was, "If it's a right, that means that I have the right to not be there." Granted, that is true if I wanted to pay $700 and spend some time in jail. Thank God I brought my kindle!
They put in a movie, National Treasure, which I felt was quite ironic, and crossed one of the three judge's names off the list. About three hours since I had arrived, they finally crossed all the names off and sent all of us home! I wish all jury duties were like this!
I got home after that at about noon, and Mike and I headed out into the great wilderness again! I can't go into much detail, but I will later.
The drive was spectacular getting here, and I will enjoy the drive back, since it was beautiful getting here!
Mike and I contacted a local landscaper in town, and still need to set up a time to allow them to come out and look at our yard. We are hoping to get some Xeriscaping done. It just makes the most sense.
Haven't been home much to be baking or cooking, so nothing new there. Although, our granola bars have still lasted this long. I think it helped that I was scolding Mike for inhaling them!
Not sure if there is much else going on...I don't think there is, at least nothing that I can speak of at the moment.
So, until next time!
It has been quite a while since I have last written anything, at least, that is how it feels! I actually have a little spare time to do some updating before things get crazy again...today!
So let me see, Mike had asked for some time off this last few days to go to a CE (continuing education) conference in Reno, but a week before the trip, he was finally approved by his management. Gotta love the last minute disrespect, huh? So because we couldn't go to Reno, we decided that we would take a nice trip into the mountains.
Mike booked a nice lodge in Estes Park, Colorado for us to stay in. We even got a night free! We were nestled in the mountains, no matter which window you looked out of, you'd see mountains and trees and elk! Our first night there, we got into our private hot tub on our balcony and watched the lightning show on the other side of the mountain. It wasn't until the wind started to pick up that we felt the need to go inside.
Our first day in Estes Park was spent packing up a little breakfast/brunch and heading to Rocky Mountain National, as they waived their entrance fees for the week. Because it was off season, meant that a lot of the roads were still closed down due to snow...that's right, snow! We had beautiful days with clear weather, a few clouds, but it was gorgeous!
We stopped a few times, but it was super windy! When we reached the top of one of the peaks, we got out of our car, and I couldn't walk. The wind was so strong, that I was leaning backwards, and not falling on my rear, until Mike decided to step into the wind, breaking the force behind me, and thankfully, he caught me, or else I would have been hurting! The wind did cause me to twist my knee a little, but the next morning it was fine.
There were a ton of elk! We started down one side of the park, and there on my side was about 20 or so, and on the other side was about 50 or more. Did I mention the elk? =) They weren't overly skittish, and we were able to get pictures of them, however, Mike's camera decided that it's life was over, and we weren't able to grab any pictures of us with them. =(
As we drove through the park, we were on the lookout for bears. We ended up having a pretty funny conversation...
"Can you outrun a bear in this car?" - me
"Sure. As long as it's a straight road with no turns...because he knows the shortcuts." - Mike
For lunch that day, Mike took me to an Indian restaurant, in which I've never had. It was pretty good. I liked it a lot. There was so much food and we ended up taking a lot of it back to our lodge. We walked the streets of Estes Park too, and got some ice cream and fudge that was freshly made and super yummy!
Mike and I also went to the Stanley Hotel, which is famous for the Shining. It is a beautiful hotel, and has so much history, and is haunted. We took the ghost tour, and had a great time. I took a lot of photos; no ghosts. We did smell a lot of things that didn't fit with the area in which we were in, and had some uneasy feelings here and there, but it was fun. It's super expensive to stay a night there, but maybe our next trip we will stay in one of those rooms!
We walked through the gift shop, but were very disappointed and shocked by the expensive prices of their merchandise. I saw a few things that were cute and neat, but I wasn't about to spend that kind of money for them!
During the tour, there was an elderly woman who continued to try and give me her things. My knee-jerk reaction was to take them from her, thinking that she wanted me to take a picture of her, or maybe she needed to tie her shoe or something, but she kept apologizing to me, because she was mistaking me for her daughter/daughter in law. I asked Mike if I looked anything like her, as she was much heavier and shorter than me. Mike laughed, thinking I was joking, but I was serious. How does one mistake someone three times for someone they look nothing like?
Our last day before leaving town was spent going to breakfast...which we tried to find using Trip Advisor, but it kept taking us to a house...it wasn't the cafe for breakfast that we were in search of. We skipped that place as we couldn't locate it and ate somewhere else. After breakfast, we headed to a local winery and sampled ten different wines. Mike, of course, selected five red wines and I selected a white, a dessert and three Mead's. We ended up buying six bottles out of all the ones we tried. They were really tasty!
After our wine tasting, we walked the now open shops of Estes Park, and ended up doing a little Christmas shopping too! I laughed as I told Mike that I felt it would be shocking to many people if I were to state that Christmas shopping was done! Granted, we weren't going to go crazy, but there were a few things that we couldn't help but pick up for family.
We left Estes Park on day four and headed the very scenic route home. This was a great trip!
Mike had to work on Monday, and Tuesday, I had jury duty. I was hoping to be a lucky person and not have to go in, but no such luck.
Then they brought a judge in and he did his big "ra-ra" speech, telling us that it's a right for us to be there, and blah blah blah. My thought was, "If it's a right, that means that I have the right to not be there." Granted, that is true if I wanted to pay $700 and spend some time in jail. Thank God I brought my kindle!
They put in a movie, National Treasure, which I felt was quite ironic, and crossed one of the three judge's names off the list. About three hours since I had arrived, they finally crossed all the names off and sent all of us home! I wish all jury duties were like this!
I got home after that at about noon, and Mike and I headed out into the great wilderness again! I can't go into much detail, but I will later.
The drive was spectacular getting here, and I will enjoy the drive back, since it was beautiful getting here!
Mike and I contacted a local landscaper in town, and still need to set up a time to allow them to come out and look at our yard. We are hoping to get some Xeriscaping done. It just makes the most sense.
Haven't been home much to be baking or cooking, so nothing new there. Although, our granola bars have still lasted this long. I think it helped that I was scolding Mike for inhaling them!
Not sure if there is much else going on...I don't think there is, at least nothing that I can speak of at the moment.
So, until next time!
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