You know how that rhyme goes, right?
"Thirty days hath September, April, June and...
NOVEMBER!!"
Yep, that's right people, I did it! NaBloPoMo is in the bag. Hard to believe I actually stuck it out, but thirty days later, I've blogged each and every day of November, sometimes more than once a day. I didn't always have something entertaining or relevant, but I managed to put something out there into Cyberspace. Hope you've enjoyed it as much as I have!
Cheers!
11.30.2007
11.29.2007
House of Cards
OK, kids, I know there are at least a FEW of you out there who read regularly! :) I'm jumping on Chloe's bandwagon with this one, because it's fun and who doesn't like to get Christmas cards in the mail?!
If you're interested in a Working Diva Christmas Card Exchange, it's pretty simple! E-mail me with your address and I'll e-mail you back with mine. You send a card, I send a card, and together we'll keep the Post Office hopping this Christmas!
I can be reached at: theworkingdiva(at)yahoo(dot)com, so send away!
Cheers!
If you're interested in a Working Diva Christmas Card Exchange, it's pretty simple! E-mail me with your address and I'll e-mail you back with mine. You send a card, I send a card, and together we'll keep the Post Office hopping this Christmas!
I can be reached at: theworkingdiva(at)yahoo(dot)com, so send away!
Cheers!
11.28.2007
"He went to the chimney, and stuffed the tree UP!"
I so wish that I had a camera here at work.
Why, you ask?
Because today, I saw a sign on a Christmas tree near a department office.
"Do not take this tree.
It is now under surveillance."
The tree was a pretty run-of-the-mill 6' artificial tree with lights.
I knew there must be a story, so I checked it out.
Sure enough, some upperclass students thought the naked tree (didn't have lights at the time of the disppearance) thought it would look really nice in their dorm room.
Fortunately, the crack Campus Security got a tip and were able to rescue the tree, if not apprehend the criminals.
So now the tree is in the early stages of decorating, and has the sign.
Overheard while nearby?
"I wonder where they hid the video camera?"
This little caper reminded me of one of my favorite Christmas stories. And since you can find ANYTHING on the internet, here it is!
Cheers!
Why, you ask?
Because today, I saw a sign on a Christmas tree near a department office.
"Do not take this tree.
It is now under surveillance."
The tree was a pretty run-of-the-mill 6' artificial tree with lights.
I knew there must be a story, so I checked it out.
Sure enough, some upperclass students thought the naked tree (didn't have lights at the time of the disppearance) thought it would look really nice in their dorm room.
Fortunately, the crack Campus Security got a tip and were able to rescue the tree, if not apprehend the criminals.
So now the tree is in the early stages of decorating, and has the sign.
Overheard while nearby?
"I wonder where they hid the video camera?"
This little caper reminded me of one of my favorite Christmas stories. And since you can find ANYTHING on the internet, here it is!
Cheers!
11.27.2007
Santa Baby
***Soapbox Warning***
I think that the retailers and manufacturers have totally skewed a joyous religious holiday celebrating the birth of the Saviour and turned it into a "buy, buy, buy" season, reflective of today's materialistic American society. If we aren't in search of the "perfect gift" or we don't want something from someone, we are somehow "missing" the meaning.
OK, rant over.
That being said, I'm not opposed to some of the more secular aspects of Christmas, like many carols and dreaming about fun gifts. I believe that there is a lot of great--well, really good, anyway--music that is a fun way to celebrate. And those secular carols are often preceded or followed by more religious-themed ones, so the message can be clear. One of my faves is "Santa Baby", recently popularized by that religiously-named diva herself, Madonna. (I won't even get started on the role of Santa Claus in Christmas, but just enjoy this blog as a humorous diversion.)
While I'm not asking Santa for a sable, or a car, or a platinum mine, there are a few things that I do really like. And though I'm not expecting any of them for Christmas, I do like a good daydream!
I like a few really nice handbags. Any of these would be lovely.
I also like a nice fragrance:
A girl can never have too many pretty preppy shirts:
Or baubles:
So, fellow children-at-heart, what would be on your daydream list?
I think that the retailers and manufacturers have totally skewed a joyous religious holiday celebrating the birth of the Saviour and turned it into a "buy, buy, buy" season, reflective of today's materialistic American society. If we aren't in search of the "perfect gift" or we don't want something from someone, we are somehow "missing" the meaning.
OK, rant over.
That being said, I'm not opposed to some of the more secular aspects of Christmas, like many carols and dreaming about fun gifts. I believe that there is a lot of great--well, really good, anyway--music that is a fun way to celebrate. And those secular carols are often preceded or followed by more religious-themed ones, so the message can be clear. One of my faves is "Santa Baby", recently popularized by that religiously-named diva herself, Madonna. (I won't even get started on the role of Santa Claus in Christmas, but just enjoy this blog as a humorous diversion.)
While I'm not asking Santa for a sable, or a car, or a platinum mine, there are a few things that I do really like. And though I'm not expecting any of them for Christmas, I do like a good daydream!
I like a few really nice handbags. Any of these would be lovely.
I also like a nice fragrance:
A girl can never have too many pretty preppy shirts: Or baubles:So, fellow children-at-heart, what would be on your daydream list?
Cheers!
11.26.2007
Lack of Substance and the Christmas Fairy
Well, I have one thing to say as we enter the final week of NaBloPoMo. This whole posting every day thing can lead to some REALLY lame posts, as witnessed by my recent offerings. Thank goodness for all of those inane surveys and tests that abound on the internet!
I may have mentioned sometime last week that we put up and decorated SIX trees at work, and that annual event has (as usual) zapped my desire to decorate my own home. Today, when I pulled onto campus, I was greeted by the huge brick gates that flank the main entrance, strung with pine boughs and wreaths with beautiful red bows. Someone decked the halls!
Pulling up the drive, I noticed (and how could I not?) the nearly life-size creche scene beneath trees strung with tiny white lights.
Throughout the campus there are endless signs of holiday decorating. Wreaths on light posts, tiny white lights on buildings and trees. A gigantic wreath on the President's building, itself a marvel, with huge white columns, all decked for the Christmas holiday.
Now, I have worked here long enough to know that this means that the grounds crew worked long hours of overtime during the holiday break, but it is really unbelievable.
I have only one question.
Where is this Christmas Fairy and why can't she just show up at my house?
Cheers!
I may have mentioned sometime last week that we put up and decorated SIX trees at work, and that annual event has (as usual) zapped my desire to decorate my own home. Today, when I pulled onto campus, I was greeted by the huge brick gates that flank the main entrance, strung with pine boughs and wreaths with beautiful red bows. Someone decked the halls!
Pulling up the drive, I noticed (and how could I not?) the nearly life-size creche scene beneath trees strung with tiny white lights.
Throughout the campus there are endless signs of holiday decorating. Wreaths on light posts, tiny white lights on buildings and trees. A gigantic wreath on the President's building, itself a marvel, with huge white columns, all decked for the Christmas holiday.
Now, I have worked here long enough to know that this means that the grounds crew worked long hours of overtime during the holiday break, but it is really unbelievable.
I have only one question.
Where is this Christmas Fairy and why can't she just show up at my house?
Cheers!
11.25.2007
Back to the Grind
Well, the break is over. Tomorrow morning is back to work. Am I horrible that I'm actually looking forward to going back to work?
Not that I didn't enjoy the time off, but my obsessive self craves the routine. Up at 6, get the boys ready. Take them to school. Go to work. Come home. Make dinner. Bathe the boys. Go to bed.
Hmm....
Maybe I need another break! ;)
Cheers!
Not that I didn't enjoy the time off, but my obsessive self craves the routine. Up at 6, get the boys ready. Take them to school. Go to work. Come home. Make dinner. Bathe the boys. Go to bed.
Hmm....
Maybe I need another break! ;)
Cheers!
11.24.2007
Sing, Sing, Sing!
What's Your Holiday Theme Song?
My Result: White Christmas
You're one who picks up on traditions, and you probably like to pass them on, as well. That ornament over there, we bet it has a good story attached to it. Truth is, Santa himself probably couldn't spread as much Christmas spirit as you're capable of. While others are mired in materialism, you keep the holiday's true meaning closer to your heart. So keep on dreaming of a white Christmas with every Christmas card you write. May your days be merry and bright. And may all your Christmases be white.
11.23.2007
Rose-Colored Glasses
What's Your Signature Color?
My Result: Pink Chiffon
While you make wise insights time after time, it's probably your good nature and perpetual optimism that are what you're known for and what make you a joy to be around. Even those who sometimes make fun of your Pollyanna-like proclamations will turn to you when they need a friend and some cheering up. So keep pink, Chiffon. With you around, the world's a better place!
Conversations With Child
A man of few words, at the tender age of not-quite-two.
Mom: "Manimal, what are you doing?"
Manimal: "Mess!"
Mom: "Manimal, what are you doing?"
Manimal: "Trouble!"
Mom: "Manimal, what are you doing?"
Manimal: "Silly!"
So few words, so much meaning.
Cheers!
Mom: "Manimal, what are you doing?"
Manimal: "Mess!"
Mom: "Manimal, what are you doing?"
Manimal: "Trouble!"
Mom: "Manimal, what are you doing?"
Manimal: "Silly!"
So few words, so much meaning.
Cheers!
11.22.2007
Thankful Thursday
On this day when we give thanks, I am grateful for so many blessings in my life.
My children, Sweet Son #1 and the Manimal, who are the lights of my life.
My husband, who loves me and puts up with my moods.
My parents, who are my touchstones and whom I appreciate more now than ever.
My brother, who I'm so glad doesn't punch me in the stomach anymore like he did when we were kids. Who knew he'd turn out to be such a great dad and husband, and my protector, even though he's my baby brother?
My savior, Jesus Christ, and my church, who have been constant in my crazy life over the past year or so.
My pastor at said church, who is a counselor, guide and friend.
My bestest friend. Nuff said.
My blogging buddies, too many to name, but you enlighten, inspire, entertain, educate, inform me and so much more. What more could a girl want?
My job, because I have a good one, even if it makes me nuts.
My country and my rights and those who sacrifice so much to defend her and them.
May you have time today amidst the turkey (or tofurkey, if you're veggie), football, parades and general mayhem to consider your blessings and say a grateful prayer.
Cheers!
My children, Sweet Son #1 and the Manimal, who are the lights of my life.
My husband, who loves me and puts up with my moods.
My parents, who are my touchstones and whom I appreciate more now than ever.
My brother, who I'm so glad doesn't punch me in the stomach anymore like he did when we were kids. Who knew he'd turn out to be such a great dad and husband, and my protector, even though he's my baby brother?
My savior, Jesus Christ, and my church, who have been constant in my crazy life over the past year or so.
My pastor at said church, who is a counselor, guide and friend.
My bestest friend. Nuff said.
My blogging buddies, too many to name, but you enlighten, inspire, entertain, educate, inform me and so much more. What more could a girl want?
My job, because I have a good one, even if it makes me nuts.
My country and my rights and those who sacrifice so much to defend her and them.
May you have time today amidst the turkey (or tofurkey, if you're veggie), football, parades and general mayhem to consider your blessings and say a grateful prayer.
Cheers!
11.21.2007
11.20.2007
File This Under "How in the World Did We All Turn Out Normal?"
Sing it with me, kids...
"Sunny day, keeping the clouds away, on my way to where the air is clean! Can you tell me how to get, how to get to..."
If you could finish that song, you're probably of my generation (or maybe our parents who listened to it every day!).
Now there's Dora, JoJo, Blue, Zak and Wheezy and a whole slew of others. But Sesame Street was groundbreaking children's programming when it debuted in 1969. As it turns out, though, we were scarred for life. Who knew that Oscar, Cookie Monster and Big Bird had such dangerous conditions? How in the world did we learn about stranger danger when Gordon and Bob sat alone with little children and helped them learn "which of these things is not like the other"?
Check out this article!
Cheers!
"Sunny day, keeping the clouds away, on my way to where the air is clean! Can you tell me how to get, how to get to..."
If you could finish that song, you're probably of my generation (or maybe our parents who listened to it every day!).
Now there's Dora, JoJo, Blue, Zak and Wheezy and a whole slew of others. But Sesame Street was groundbreaking children's programming when it debuted in 1969. As it turns out, though, we were scarred for life. Who knew that Oscar, Cookie Monster and Big Bird had such dangerous conditions? How in the world did we learn about stranger danger when Gordon and Bob sat alone with little children and helped them learn "which of these things is not like the other"?
Check out this article!
Cheers!
11.19.2007
By the way (Gross-Out Warning)
I forgot to mention that on Saturday, while running around the house "au naturel", the Manimal peed. On the carpet. Just watched it come out.
Then the dog licked it.
Eeeww.
Note to self: Remind Sweet Son #1 that the Manimal has no sense of cause and effect yet as it pertains to bodily functions ("I'll give you this cookie if you pee in the potty!").
Cheers!
Then the dog licked it.
Eeeww.
Note to self: Remind Sweet Son #1 that the Manimal has no sense of cause and effect yet as it pertains to bodily functions ("I'll give you this cookie if you pee in the potty!").
Cheers!
Habitual Posting, Gridiron Giants and That Christmas Spirit
So the experts say that if you do something for 21 days in a row, it becomes a habit. Between my prep for NaBloPoMo, and the month of November itself, I've been posting for 22 days. Does this mean I've truly created a blogging habit? We shall see! I'm bound and determined to be eligible for prizes! :)
Now, I'm not a huge football fan, but I do enjoy a good game of college ball. I think I've been pretty clear that my loyalties lie with a certain southwest Ohio university, located in the idyllic college town of Oxford. Yes, dear readers, my beloved Redskins (see #14) have advanced to the MAC Championship Game! They will do battle with another victim of the Political Correctness Name Game, Central Michigan University on Saturday, December 1st. Go Miami!
Today is the day I've been dreading for several weeks. I've mentioned that I'm an event planner at a university. Today we decorate Christmas trees. My office is responsible for five trees, including the one in the President's Dining Room. Now, it's not the actual process of decorating these trees that I dread (I have a WONDERFUL student staff!). It's what they signify. Over the next five weeks, our office is responsible for no less than thirty events, including three college recognition ceremonies, a cocktail reception/dinner gala for 175, a huge retirement luncheon, a Christmas cocktail/hors d'oeuvres reception for 400, a Baccalaureate Mass and two commencement ceremonies, involving approximately 4000 people over the course of a weekend.
And my husband wonders why I have no desire to decorate my own home for Christmas. If it weren't for Sweet Son #1 and the Manimal, we wouldn't have a Christmas tree.
My alcohol consumption increases dramatically at this time of the year. It gives new meaning to the Spirit(s) of Christmas.
Cheers!
Now, I'm not a huge football fan, but I do enjoy a good game of college ball. I think I've been pretty clear that my loyalties lie with a certain southwest Ohio university, located in the idyllic college town of Oxford. Yes, dear readers, my beloved Redskins (see #14) have advanced to the MAC Championship Game! They will do battle with another victim of the Political Correctness Name Game, Central Michigan University on Saturday, December 1st. Go Miami!
Today is the day I've been dreading for several weeks. I've mentioned that I'm an event planner at a university. Today we decorate Christmas trees. My office is responsible for five trees, including the one in the President's Dining Room. Now, it's not the actual process of decorating these trees that I dread (I have a WONDERFUL student staff!). It's what they signify. Over the next five weeks, our office is responsible for no less than thirty events, including three college recognition ceremonies, a cocktail reception/dinner gala for 175, a huge retirement luncheon, a Christmas cocktail/hors d'oeuvres reception for 400, a Baccalaureate Mass and two commencement ceremonies, involving approximately 4000 people over the course of a weekend.
And my husband wonders why I have no desire to decorate my own home for Christmas. If it weren't for Sweet Son #1 and the Manimal, we wouldn't have a Christmas tree.
My alcohol consumption increases dramatically at this time of the year. It gives new meaning to the Spirit(s) of Christmas.
Cheers!
11.18.2007
A Good Cause
I know it's that time of year when every charity asks that you dig a bit deeper, but Eating Disorders are a cause near and dear to my heart. They are vicious, horrible conditions, and NEDA is the largest not-for-profit organization in the U.S. working to prevent eating disorders and provide treatment referrals to those suffering from anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder and those concerned with body image and weight issues. These issues affect millions in the U.S. and around the world, and probably some of you or people with whom you are close.
Check out their auction. There are some great items, and with the holidays coming up, I know I'm all about avoiding the mall scene. And if I can shop for a cause, it's even more of a blessing.
Cheers!
Check out their auction. There are some great items, and with the holidays coming up, I know I'm all about avoiding the mall scene. And if I can shop for a cause, it's even more of a blessing.
Cheers!
Age is a State of Mind
If you, like I, have been feeling a bit old lately, here's a reminder that age is just a number.
Cheers!
Cheers!
11.17.2007
Don't Let That Sweet Face Deceive You!
Well, I'm officially a knitter. Or a hat-knitter anyway. I'm currently on my 5th hat, one for my youngest niece. Finally managed to get a pic of the Manimal in his red hat.
I couldn't post a full body version, as it's not fit for the internet. His favorite fashion statement as of late (other than wearing a knit hat in the house, of course) is to go *ahem* au naturel on the lower half. We're in the EARLY stages of potty training, and he loves to sit on the potty chair for ten minutes at a time, then brings me a diaper to put on him. At any rate, it makes for an interesting sight, him running (because he never walks) around the house wearing only a t-shirt and hat!I did purchase some yarn today to make a matching hat and scarf. Darn Wal-Mart, Michael's AND Hobby Lobby for all having yarn sales at the same time! A girl could go broke with this new addiction! I'll keep you posted about my projects!
Cheers!
My Best Seller List
So you know I'd love to be a writer (published and paid, of course). I love to read and I love to write. Here's what I've read lately...
Bitter is the New Black: Confessions of a condescending, egomaniacal, self-centered, smartass, or, why you should never carry a Prada bag to the unemployment office by Jen Lancaster
Bitter is the New Black: Confessions of a condescending, egomaniacal, self-centered, smartass, or, why you should never carry a Prada bag to the unemployment office by Jen Lancaster
- Oh my goodness! What a hysterical read! This is a well-written, witty, sarcastic memoir, which any preppy (and many others, I'm sure!) would totally love. I started out wanting to smack her pretty little "it's all about me" face and ended up wanting to be her best friend! The devil really does wear pearls! Jen has a great blog "Jennsylvania".
Shopaholic and Baby by Sophie Kinsella
- I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Becky Bloomwood! I've read all of Kinsella's "Shopaholic" books and this one doesn't disappoint. No big surprises here. Just Becky being Becky. Makes me want to read all of the books in sequence! Rumor has it there's another book or movie in the works.
In progress...
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
- Who killed Wellington? I'm hoping time will tell. Christopher John Francis Boone, the book's main character, tells this story in first-person perspective. He is "mathematically gifted and socially hopeless".
What's on your bookshelf?
Cheers!
11.16.2007
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall...
I am my mother, after all!
Well, it happened. I'm at the point in my maternal development where I hear myself giving "Because I said so!" as a reason.
I try as often as possible to give reasons to Sweet Son #1, but it just doesn't always happen. And, quite frankly, the fact that the Manimal can even SAY the word "mischief" should be a clue as to his direction.
Being a musician and a mom, Anita Renfroe is my hero...
Cheers!
Well, it happened. I'm at the point in my maternal development where I hear myself giving "Because I said so!" as a reason.
I try as often as possible to give reasons to Sweet Son #1, but it just doesn't always happen. And, quite frankly, the fact that the Manimal can even SAY the word "mischief" should be a clue as to his direction.
Being a musician and a mom, Anita Renfroe is my hero...
Cheers!
11.15.2007
An Old Dog
Happy Birthday to Princess Poopy Puppy herself! Of course, being that she's one year old today means she's not really a puppy anymore, is she? Grande Dame Doggy, now? Nah, she'll always be our Princess! Sorry for the very bad photoshop job on the eyeballs. She had those scary red eyes and I just couldn't look at them anymore! :)
Cheers!
iStunned
I recently made a purchase. Not a huge one (mini, in fact), but I don't often drop eighty bucks on one item. I tend to be a bargain shopper, and with Christmas coming (and a trip to see a certain Mouse not too far off), I've been a bit more frugal than usual.
I've been wanting one of these, though, and the price was right. Today I read up on it, hooked it up, waved my magic wand, spun around three times, said the magic words....OK, not really. I hooked it up, took care of the downloads and listened.
In shock.
And awe.
At the music coming from this.
I've been wanting one of these, though, and the price was right. Today I read up on it, hooked it up, waved my magic wand, spun around three times, said the magic words....OK, not really. I hooked it up, took care of the downloads and listened.
In shock.
And awe.
At the music coming from this.
Go ahead. Laugh.
I was stunned when I heard the music coming from this teeny, tiny, oversized postage stamp sized device. I mean, I'm a child of the 80's. I didn't use a computer regularly until I went to grad school in 1997. I learned to type on a MANUAL typewriter. The first time I ever sent an international fax (In 1995 from Dayton, OH to Holland), I nearly had an anxiety attack trying to wrap my brain around sending data not only across a telephone line, but across whole continents and oceans. I can remember getting my Sony Walkman CASSETTE player.
The fact that this little thing plays music with such clarity is almost beyond my comprehension.
I do realize that this isn't exactly the most cutting edge MP3 player out there, and it is ONLY 1 Gig and ONLY holds 240 songs. Frankly, I have no desire to watch videos or play games on an iPod. And I know I don't have a whole lot of control as to which song comes next, But it serves my purpose just fine, thank you very much.
And bonus! It doesn't have to play The Wiggles. Or VeggieTales. Or Laurie Berkner. (All very fine children's music, mind you.)
And the color? Is hot pink.
What more could a Preppy Mom want?
Cheers!
99 Red Balloons
Some of you out there probably remember the gas shortages of the 1970's. This is a gas of a different kind but will balloons be the casualties of 2007?
Thanks to Julie for this story, and I hope that Emma survives the possible loss of her beloved purple balloons.
Cheers!
Thanks to Julie for this story, and I hope that Emma survives the possible loss of her beloved purple balloons.
Cheers!
11.14.2007
Knit-Wit
Well, I've found a new addiction--knitting. Here is my first creation:
I knitted a little hat for my dearest friend's baby, due in February. Superstar model is my lavender bear.
My third attempt is a preppy little number for another friend's little girl. The stylish little model is my acorn squash.
And what happened to the second attempt? Well, it is a darling little red chapeau which graces the head of the Manimal. Unfortunately, he's sleeping, so look for a shot later on!
Now, lest you think that I have become a knitting expert overnight, like Leesie, my girlfriend Jill introduced me to the world of loom knitting. I'll keep you posted with my projects!
Cheers!
I knitted a little hat for my dearest friend's baby, due in February. Superstar model is my lavender bear.
My third attempt is a preppy little number for another friend's little girl. The stylish little model is my acorn squash.
And what happened to the second attempt? Well, it is a darling little red chapeau which graces the head of the Manimal. Unfortunately, he's sleeping, so look for a shot later on!
Now, lest you think that I have become a knitting expert overnight, like Leesie, my girlfriend Jill introduced me to the world of loom knitting. I'll keep you posted with my projects!
Cheers!
11.13.2007
ObOnNaBloPoMo*
Being a baby blogger, having just recently turned one year old, I'm fairly new to this whole NaBloPoMo business. It seems to me though, that having posted for 13 days makes many people go, "Hmmm...is my life REALLY interesting enough to post something new every day?"
My life is not. I've chosen to fill those "off days" with quotes and fun stuff. I do, however, intend to complete said month with an entry each and every day. And remember, I'm using Blogger, so I don't have the luxury (or at least can't figure out how) of creating entries and setting them to post on a future date.
Reminds me of my Sophomore English Teacher. In addition to instilling in me a love of proper grammar, she also assigned a daily journal entry. These weren't journals in the reflective sense, but more like writing prompts. Every.Single.Day. Vacations and holidays included.
I hated them.
Of course, now that I have the benefit of a *few* years since Sophomore English, I have a much greater appreciation for those daily assignments. They made me a much better writer. Perspective is a beautiful thing.
So while I may tire of posting every day for the 30 days, I'll persist, if only to honor Miss W. and let her know that I was paying attention.
*Just my Observations On NaBloPoMo.
Cheers!
My life is not. I've chosen to fill those "off days" with quotes and fun stuff. I do, however, intend to complete said month with an entry each and every day. And remember, I'm using Blogger, so I don't have the luxury (or at least can't figure out how) of creating entries and setting them to post on a future date.
Reminds me of my Sophomore English Teacher. In addition to instilling in me a love of proper grammar, she also assigned a daily journal entry. These weren't journals in the reflective sense, but more like writing prompts. Every.Single.Day. Vacations and holidays included.
I hated them.
Of course, now that I have the benefit of a *few* years since Sophomore English, I have a much greater appreciation for those daily assignments. They made me a much better writer. Perspective is a beautiful thing.
So while I may tire of posting every day for the 30 days, I'll persist, if only to honor Miss W. and let her know that I was paying attention.
*Just my Observations On NaBloPoMo.
Cheers!
11.12.2007
Etymological Musings
I love words. Writing, reading, spelling, grammar. Words generally make my heart go pitter-patter. A well-written book makes me want to crawl right into the story and live there forever. I have an e-mail posted on my wall that is dated 9/21/04. I've kept it that long because it is so well written that when I read it I am transported back to my previous life as a high school band director, and it lets me know that some of them DID get some of the lessons I was trying to teach.
All that being said, if you are as much of an etymo-phile (is that a word?!), check out this site. I made it to 50. Warning: It is VERY addictive!
Cheers!
All that being said, if you are as much of an etymo-phile (is that a word?!), check out this site. I made it to 50. Warning: It is VERY addictive!
Cheers!
11.11.2007
Never Forget
Growing up as an Air Force brat, I have always had a patriotic bent. My eyes well up whenever I hear the National Anthem. Seeing VFW or American Legion members in a parade pushes me over the edge. I am so grateful for the freedoms that we have the USA.
Today is Veterans' Day. This is a day to recognize and be grateful for the sacrifices that our servicemen and women have made over the years. The current world climate makes all of us keenly aware of sacrifices. Parents who miss birthdays, husbands who miss births, mothers who miss first dates, and the list goes on.
And then, some give the ultimate sacrifice. We should be honored that these men and women gave their lives so that we might have the freedom to do things such as openly disagree with our governmental leaders. To oppose the war, but support the soldiers.
We must never forget, as well, that for every serviceman or woman, there is a family that serves as well. Those spouses, children, mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, grandparents, nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters who make sacrifices every day, and miss the service person while he/she is away, and weep if they don't come home.
We must never forget that for those who serve, directly or indirectly, freedom isn't free.
And I, for one, am grateful.
Today is Veterans' Day. This is a day to recognize and be grateful for the sacrifices that our servicemen and women have made over the years. The current world climate makes all of us keenly aware of sacrifices. Parents who miss birthdays, husbands who miss births, mothers who miss first dates, and the list goes on.
And then, some give the ultimate sacrifice. We should be honored that these men and women gave their lives so that we might have the freedom to do things such as openly disagree with our governmental leaders. To oppose the war, but support the soldiers.
We must never forget, as well, that for every serviceman or woman, there is a family that serves as well. Those spouses, children, mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, grandparents, nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters who make sacrifices every day, and miss the service person while he/she is away, and weep if they don't come home.
We must never forget that for those who serve, directly or indirectly, freedom isn't free.
And I, for one, am grateful.
11.10.2007
Scrooge Saturday
So not one, but TWO of our neighbors have their Christmas trees up already! You've already seen my feelings on REALLY early decorating, so I won't reiterate, but HOLY COW, people, it's NOVEMBER 10th!
Anyway, I took Sweet Son #1 to the craft store today to pick out something to make for the Grandparents for Christmas. Unfortunately, I forgot that the seven-year-old timeline is a bit different than that of the average adult. He thought that when we got home, we would complete it, and was sorely disappointed when I told him that Christmas was still more than a month and a half away, and we wouldn't be completing it tonight.
In trying to get myself into the spirit, I did buy two very cute wall hangings. Hope to be less Scrooge-like soon.
Cheers!
Anyway, I took Sweet Son #1 to the craft store today to pick out something to make for the Grandparents for Christmas. Unfortunately, I forgot that the seven-year-old timeline is a bit different than that of the average adult. He thought that when we got home, we would complete it, and was sorely disappointed when I told him that Christmas was still more than a month and a half away, and we wouldn't be completing it tonight.
In trying to get myself into the spirit, I did buy two very cute wall hangings. Hope to be less Scrooge-like soon.
Cheers!
11.09.2007
Philosophy Friday
The Paradoxical Commandments
by Dr. Kent M. Keith
People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered.
Love them anyway.
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.
If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.
The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds.
Think big anyway.
People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs.
Fight for a few underdogs anyway.
What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.
People really need help but may attack you if you do help them.
Help people anyway.
Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you have anyway.
by Dr. Kent M. Keith
People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered.
Love them anyway.
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.
If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.
The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds.
Think big anyway.
People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs.
Fight for a few underdogs anyway.
What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.
People really need help but may attack you if you do help them.
Help people anyway.
Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you have anyway.
11.08.2007
Reality TV
So I hear the new season of "Amazing Race" has begun. I know virtually nothing about this show, but my sister-in-law watches religiously.
This past season of "American Idol" was the first time I watched the show. As a former music teacher, I was astonished by the incredible self-confidence of people who clearly could not carry a tune in the proverbial bucket.
I never got into MTV's "Real World", because I am a child of the 80's who remembers when MTV stood for MUSIC television.
I am, however, addicted to the Food Network reality TV.
I loved the last two seasons of "The Next Food Network Star", although I'm not sold on Amy Finley's new show. I do love her cooking style, though, so I'm excited to see where this experience takes her.
I love all of the Food Network Challenges, and even Sweet Son #1 sits and watches those with Mom. Something about the competitive aspect draws him in.
"Dinner Impossible" is another can't miss (although I usually TiVo it). Chef Robert Irvine has an impressive culinary resume, a great wit and is a quick and creative thinker. He also has a fabulous accent, much like my blogging buddy, Chloe!
My current fave, though is "The Next Iron Chef", with the finale airing on Sunday, November 11th. I love the parent show "Iron Chef America", and the two finalists are both excellent. I'm cheering for Chef Symon, though. He's fun and edgy, and I think he'd make a great addition to the Flay, Morimoto, Batali and Cora quad.
So, what do you like to watch?
Cheers!
This past season of "American Idol" was the first time I watched the show. As a former music teacher, I was astonished by the incredible self-confidence of people who clearly could not carry a tune in the proverbial bucket.
I never got into MTV's "Real World", because I am a child of the 80's who remembers when MTV stood for MUSIC television.
I am, however, addicted to the Food Network reality TV.
I loved the last two seasons of "The Next Food Network Star", although I'm not sold on Amy Finley's new show. I do love her cooking style, though, so I'm excited to see where this experience takes her.
I love all of the Food Network Challenges, and even Sweet Son #1 sits and watches those with Mom. Something about the competitive aspect draws him in.
"Dinner Impossible" is another can't miss (although I usually TiVo it). Chef Robert Irvine has an impressive culinary resume, a great wit and is a quick and creative thinker. He also has a fabulous accent, much like my blogging buddy, Chloe!
My current fave, though is "The Next Iron Chef", with the finale airing on Sunday, November 11th. I love the parent show "Iron Chef America", and the two finalists are both excellent. I'm cheering for Chef Symon, though. He's fun and edgy, and I think he'd make a great addition to the Flay, Morimoto, Batali and Cora quad.
So, what do you like to watch?
Cheers!
11.07.2007
Black Wednesday
Did you ever have one of those days where you snapped at every living being?
Today is one of those days. I should not be allowed any human (or canine, for that matter) contact, because I'm just in a snit.
Hope you're in a better mood than I.
Cheers!
Today is one of those days. I should not be allowed any human (or canine, for that matter) contact, because I'm just in a snit.
Hope you're in a better mood than I.
Cheers!
11.06.2007
Fun Stuff...
Who knew I was a fifties girl at heart? Do love those pearls, though!
You Belong in 1952 |
 You're fun loving, romantic, and more than a little innocent. See you at the drive in! |
Raining Cats and Dogs...
No, it's not raining here in the Windy City. It's cold. As in, "I think winter's trying to push fall out the door" cold. 34 degrees Fahrenheit with a hard frost warning for tonight. Brrr...
I love my dog. Not in a "do anything for her she's really just a child with fur" sort of way, but she is a sweetie (most of the time), and it does make me sad when she has trouble getting up because her hips are (already) giving her problems and she's not even a year old yet. Princess Poopy Puppy has made herself part of our family: the four-legged Queen of the House.
We used to have a cat. A sweet, black kitty named Boo. Cats and dogs, as anyone familiar with either will tell you, are completely different personality-wise. Boo was the Queen of the House, but she was not the benevolent ruler that the current monarch is. Boo ruled from on high (the stereo speaker tower, to be precise) and deigned to let us pet her silky coat and allow us the privilege of feeding her and cleaning her toilette. This servitude did have its perks, however. Cats make great footwarmers at night. Of course, being nocturnal hunters by their nature, they also feel the need to attack the very same feet in the middle of the night.
But I digress.
Dogs tolerate all kinds of humanizing, like dressing them up for Halloween, wearing warm coats and little booties in the winter. Cats, on the other hand, are not so excited to be models for the latest haute couture. Witness Bianca, Midge's kitty in her new chapeau.
If looks could kill...
Cheers!
I love my dog. Not in a "do anything for her she's really just a child with fur" sort of way, but she is a sweetie (most of the time), and it does make me sad when she has trouble getting up because her hips are (already) giving her problems and she's not even a year old yet. Princess Poopy Puppy has made herself part of our family: the four-legged Queen of the House.
We used to have a cat. A sweet, black kitty named Boo. Cats and dogs, as anyone familiar with either will tell you, are completely different personality-wise. Boo was the Queen of the House, but she was not the benevolent ruler that the current monarch is. Boo ruled from on high (the stereo speaker tower, to be precise) and deigned to let us pet her silky coat and allow us the privilege of feeding her and cleaning her toilette. This servitude did have its perks, however. Cats make great footwarmers at night. Of course, being nocturnal hunters by their nature, they also feel the need to attack the very same feet in the middle of the night.
But I digress.
Dogs tolerate all kinds of humanizing, like dressing them up for Halloween, wearing warm coats and little booties in the winter. Cats, on the other hand, are not so excited to be models for the latest haute couture. Witness Bianca, Midge's kitty in her new chapeau.
If looks could kill...
Cheers!
11.05.2007
We Need a Little....Christmas?
In the musical "Mame", Auntie Mame decides that she "needs a little Christmas" early. She exhorts her nephew Patrick to "put up the tree before my spirits fall again", even when he reminds her that it's still a whole week before Thanksgiving.
Clearly, things have changed since the Depression Era, the setting for this musical.
Today, people would be shocked if the retail world WAITED until a week before Thanksgiving before they started to stock their Christmas decorations. I'm not sure why I am caught off-guard each year when they begin decorating the display trees in October, but there is some naive part of me that KNOWS the inherent madness in decorating for Christmas a full two months before the holiday itself, and hopes that maybe, just maybe, this year will be different.
This year is different. Allow me to elaborate.
In anticipation of a lower-profit holiday shopping season, Wal-Mart, the granddaddy of the discount retailers, announced an "early" Black Friday. Their "big holiday sales" began on Friday, November 2nd. They are also playing Christmas music throughout the stores.
Speaking of the melodies, I'm ALL about Christmas music. I love the stuff and would play it in July if it weren't just wrong. But seriously, when I'm hearing Christmas music as I do some last minute candy shopping ON HALLOWEEN, I think Santa must've been hitting the sauce.
A local radio station that typically switches to a Christmas music format between the day after Thanksgiving and December 26th is ALREADY playing the holiday tunes this year!
I'm not even going to get into the commercialization or secularization of Christmas (a CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS holiday, celebrating the birth of JESUS CHRIST, the SAVIOR), because that's a whole different rant. All I want is to be able to celebrate holidays in their own time. The approach of fall, the harvest/Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. I'd love to wait until, say, December 1st before I start seeing signs of Christmas, but I'd settle for a whole week before Thanksgiving.
Cheers!
Clearly, things have changed since the Depression Era, the setting for this musical.
Today, people would be shocked if the retail world WAITED until a week before Thanksgiving before they started to stock their Christmas decorations. I'm not sure why I am caught off-guard each year when they begin decorating the display trees in October, but there is some naive part of me that KNOWS the inherent madness in decorating for Christmas a full two months before the holiday itself, and hopes that maybe, just maybe, this year will be different.
This year is different. Allow me to elaborate.
In anticipation of a lower-profit holiday shopping season, Wal-Mart, the granddaddy of the discount retailers, announced an "early" Black Friday. Their "big holiday sales" began on Friday, November 2nd. They are also playing Christmas music throughout the stores.
Speaking of the melodies, I'm ALL about Christmas music. I love the stuff and would play it in July if it weren't just wrong. But seriously, when I'm hearing Christmas music as I do some last minute candy shopping ON HALLOWEEN, I think Santa must've been hitting the sauce.
A local radio station that typically switches to a Christmas music format between the day after Thanksgiving and December 26th is ALREADY playing the holiday tunes this year!
I'm not even going to get into the commercialization or secularization of Christmas (a CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS holiday, celebrating the birth of JESUS CHRIST, the SAVIOR), because that's a whole different rant. All I want is to be able to celebrate holidays in their own time. The approach of fall, the harvest/Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. I'd love to wait until, say, December 1st before I start seeing signs of Christmas, but I'd settle for a whole week before Thanksgiving.
Cheers!
11.04.2007
Time on Your Hands!
Assuming you're in a state that "falls back", what will YOU do with that extra hour today? Here are some suggestions from my life...
1. Sleep
2. Update your blog
3. Sleep
4. Give the dog a bath
5. Sleep
6. Play with your kids
7. Sleep
8. Clean the kitchen
9. Sleep
10. Watch instructional DVD for mineral makeup
11. Sleep
12. Complete lesson prep for this week's classes
13. Sleep
14. Read "Get Out of That Pit!" by Beth Moore
15. Sleep
Do you see a pattern here? Hope you find some fun or productive way to use your extra hour.
Cheers!
1. Sleep
2. Update your blog
3. Sleep
4. Give the dog a bath
5. Sleep
6. Play with your kids
7. Sleep
8. Clean the kitchen
9. Sleep
10. Watch instructional DVD for mineral makeup
11. Sleep
12. Complete lesson prep for this week's classes
13. Sleep
14. Read "Get Out of That Pit!" by Beth Moore
15. Sleep
Do you see a pattern here? Hope you find some fun or productive way to use your extra hour.
Cheers!
11.03.2007
Saturday, in the Park...
Well, don't know if we'll make it to the park, but today is the first Saturday in TWO MONTHS that we don't have a soccer game! Yay! Of course, the Cub Scouts had to go and ruin my perfectly good, nothing on the agenda Saturday by making it Popcorn Pickup Day. Ah, well.
Hope some of you get to enjoy a Saturday in the park (or at home)!
Cheers!
Hope some of you get to enjoy a Saturday in the park (or at home)!
Cheers!
11.02.2007
Just My Two Cents...
If at all possible, avoid falling down five concrete steps.
If unavoidable, try not to be wearing two-inch heels when it happens.
If said shoes are already part of the picture, avoid spraining your foot, possibly breaking your big toe and scraping the top layer of skin OFF.
Just my two cents, and yes, it does hurt like Hades.
Cheers!
If unavoidable, try not to be wearing two-inch heels when it happens.
If said shoes are already part of the picture, avoid spraining your foot, possibly breaking your big toe and scraping the top layer of skin OFF.
Just my two cents, and yes, it does hurt like Hades.
Cheers!
11.01.2007
NaBloPoMo, Sugar High, Wednesday Addams: Ramblings of One REALLY Tired Mom Who Managed to Survive Halloween
Well, November is here and that means it's National Blog Posting Month! Yep, kids, this is what I've been training for, so we'll see how long it lasts...
So I sent Sweet Son #1 to school yesterday with his Ninja costume (sans "weapons" as it was a school function) and my contribution to the "Fall Festival Party" (veggie tray...surprisingly popular with the 7 year-old set, actually) in a bag.
He came home with NO homework, a sugar high like you wouldn't believe, and a bag full of candy.
I dressed the Manimal in his costume (a pumpkin) and off we went to harass the neighbors for yet more candy. The only good thing about this year is that, due to the change in Daylight Savings Time, we didn't beg in the dark. In the Windy City, once we make that dreaded time change, it's dark at 4:30 pm. I couldn't believe it myself the first few years I was here.
We trick-or-treated for about an hour, then were off to the school Halloween Dance, sponsored by the PTO. Of course, the Manimal was in tow, strapped in his stroller while I worked the Bozo Buckets game. While there, Sweet Son #1 ate two pieces of pizza, potato chips and that ever-popular pure-sugar concoction, Cotton Candy.
No wonder he couldn't fall asleep until 10 pm. His sugar level would've made Willy Wonka himself go into a sugar coma.
As an aside, costumes for elementary aged kids stink. The boys' costumes all include some variation of weaponry and the girls', well, let's just say "skank" pretty much sums it up. One little girl last night had a great one, though. I took one look at her and knew she was Wednesday Addams. She could've been a double for Lisa Loring. Mom had done a fabulous job on her costume, complete with pilgrim style dress, long black braids and black boots. She looked awesome.
All I have to say is, thank goodness Halloween is over and my child's sugar levels can return to normal.
Cheers!
So I sent Sweet Son #1 to school yesterday with his Ninja costume (sans "weapons" as it was a school function) and my contribution to the "Fall Festival Party" (veggie tray...surprisingly popular with the 7 year-old set, actually) in a bag.
He came home with NO homework, a sugar high like you wouldn't believe, and a bag full of candy.
I dressed the Manimal in his costume (a pumpkin) and off we went to harass the neighbors for yet more candy. The only good thing about this year is that, due to the change in Daylight Savings Time, we didn't beg in the dark. In the Windy City, once we make that dreaded time change, it's dark at 4:30 pm. I couldn't believe it myself the first few years I was here.
We trick-or-treated for about an hour, then were off to the school Halloween Dance, sponsored by the PTO. Of course, the Manimal was in tow, strapped in his stroller while I worked the Bozo Buckets game. While there, Sweet Son #1 ate two pieces of pizza, potato chips and that ever-popular pure-sugar concoction, Cotton Candy.
No wonder he couldn't fall asleep until 10 pm. His sugar level would've made Willy Wonka himself go into a sugar coma.
As an aside, costumes for elementary aged kids stink. The boys' costumes all include some variation of weaponry and the girls', well, let's just say "skank" pretty much sums it up. One little girl last night had a great one, though. I took one look at her and knew she was Wednesday Addams. She could've been a double for Lisa Loring. Mom had done a fabulous job on her costume, complete with pilgrim style dress, long black braids and black boots. She looked awesome.
All I have to say is, thank goodness Halloween is over and my child's sugar levels can return to normal.
Cheers!
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