The Assorted Adventures of a Middle Aged Urbanite

Hello Again

2011-05-30T10:56:00.001-05:00

I've decided to revive my first blog. Nothing earth shattering, just looking to share more of the everyday aspects of life here, rather than on my "art blog". I'm also in the process of sprucing things up around here and at my art blog. It's good to freshen things up now and then.

I thought I'd kick things off by sharing a favorite recipe--Blueberry Buckle. Really, it's just a fancy name for coffee cake. Normally I make it with blueberries, but at this time of year I like to use fresh rhubarb.

Blueberry Buckle

1 1/4 cups flour

1/2 cup sugar

1/3 cup milk

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) softened butter

1/4 cup shortening

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 egg

Mix sugar, butter, shortening and egg with spoon. Add milk and vanilla. Stir. Add remaining dry ingredients. Spread in ungreased 8 inch pan.

Sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries or other fruit. Rhubarb is a great choice! I'm not much for measuring the fruit--I just load it on (especially the rhubarb)!

Mix until crumbly:

1/2 cup sugar

1/3 cup flour

1/4 cup softened butter

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Sprinkle above mixture over blueberries or fruit. Bake 40-45 minutes at 350 degrees. You can also double the recipe and use a 9x13 pan!

Holiday in pictures

2009-12-30T08:53:00.003-06:00

As promised, some pictures from our Christmas! Christmas Eve was spent doing lots of baking...well, that's what I did! Cy had to work from 9 a.m. till 8 p.m.! It's horrid working retail during the holidays!

But Ana and her boyfriend, Travis, took advantage of the new snow and made some great snowmen!

After a late dinner, it was time to open gifts!

Ana was super excited about the CHI hair straightener she got!

Even though he don't look it here, Cy was thrilled with his dress clothes from Express...later, he put on a little show for mom!

Joel was pleased that there was a little baseball this Christmas...

I bought us a 20-game season ticket package for the new stadium! We are sitting very, very high!

No pictures of me on Christmas Eve (I was taking the pics!)...but I was thrilled with my new DVDs...Thirtysomething, Season 1, Julie & Julia, and the fantastic movie Up. I also got some wonderful things to help me relax--a massage chair pad (it works great!) and Ana got me one of those things you put around your neck (and you can heat it up in the microwave...smells like lavender!)

A few days later, we had Christmas with Joel's kids--

Hope you all enjoyed a wondrous holiday season!

Feeling bummed...

2009-12-29T19:06:00.000-06:00

So a week ago, just before Christmas, I had a doctor's appointment with my regular physician. It was a "routine" diabetic visit, one that should be scheduled every 3-4 months. It had actually been more like 6 months.

I hate these visits. I never leave feeling good about myself or my body. I feel like I'm aging before my time. Genetics is not on my side. Turning 49 earlier this month did not help my attitude about this whole aging thing. I'm having hot flashes right and left and I can't seem to get a start on losing those 25 pounds I need to take off (again).

But I know eventually I need to go in, so I decided it was time to bite the bullet. And the news was not good. My blood sugar numbers were up. I can't say I was really surprised. My stress has been pretty high this fall. I have not been exercising like I should. My meds don't seem to be working.

So my doctor informed me that I needed to start taking insulin once a day. I sat in her office fighting tears as she explained how much better insulin is now, how easy it is to use...It may be easier, but it still does not feel good. At best, I feel like I'm failing and at worst, I feel like I'm cursed. Like I said, genetics is not really on my side.

I have been a Type II diabetic for over 10 years. My mother has been a diabetic for years and I think my father was possibly a Type II diabetic as well. Up to now, I've been managing my diabetes with oral medications, but I have never had stellar numbers. Over time this plays havoc with your body. I run a much higher risk for kidney and heart disease. Given my family history of heart disease that is something that needs to be taken seriously.

Today I had my little "education" appointment with the nurse...I was walked through how to give myself the injections. I'm not really worried about it...I had to give myself injections when I had the blood clots years ago. I'm not saying that I'm excited about it, but I'm not a needle phobe.

I guess the part that I don't like about it is that it's just another sign that this disease is getting the upper hand...it is becoming more intrusive. And it's not getting better.

I'm writing about this because writing helps me to work through things...and I'm warning you that I'm having a bit of a pity party, but I assure you I'll get past this. But just for a moment can I say how much it sucks dealing with this every day. I'm not the healthiest of eaters, but certainly not the worst...and sometimes it just annoys the crap out of me that people around me can eat so much worse and not pay the consequences. Sure, maybe they are just living in their own little land of denial, but sometimes I really just don't want to think about what I'm eating. And honestly, I don't like exercising. I'd rather be painting in the studio. I need some motivator to get out there and start moving. Frankly, I would like a dog that would insist on being taken out, but I don't think that's in the cards right now.

So I'm trying to wrap my head around all this. I'll probably be writing about this a bit more. I need a place to vent, deal with disappointments, and hopefully celebrate some successes.

Like a lot of folks, the beginning of a new year seems a good time to re-dedicate myself to living healthier. I will lose those 25 pounds (again). I will get better control of my blood sugars. I will look and feel healthier and younger.

Besides a year from now, I turn the BIG 5-0!

YIKES!!!

Day 1 at the Fair

2009-08-28T11:12:00.003-05:00

This was my favorite photo of the day--four barely adolescent boys sitting on a bench, holding these bananas they had won at the fair. They were willing to let me take their pic...I didn't tell them I was posting it for the world to see! Lots of bananas walking around the fair...

This year marks the 100-year anniversary of the grandstand. I was less than thrilled to see a huge Wal-mart sign posted on the side of the grandstand...yuk...obviously they gave money for something.

Gotta check out the Seed Art...always displayed in the Ag bldg in the middle of the fairgrounds.

One of my favorite fair treats...warm scones with fruit and cream cheese topping from French Meadow Bakery. It was the first food I looked for this year and initially I was disappointed to see them gone from their usual spot in the Food Bldg...then I spied them outside in their very own (and very lovely) building. They serve all kinds of coffee drinks too!

The Skyride

Joel & I outside the Fine Arts bldg. There is always a wonderful exhibit of art by MN artists in the Fine Arts building...always one of my first stops.

Hey, I didn't find these...who was handing them out? I want one! Mauer on a stick!

It was early in the day and these two were tuckered out! They had a great place for a nap though!

Other Fair tips/tidbits:

Metro transit has apparrently lost the contract for providing the service for all the free/low-cost bus shuttles to the fair. The good part of this is the service is now being provided by more comfy coach buses. On the bad side: there are fewer buses, fewer seats and these buses were not built for standing passengers!
The Fair coupon book for $5 is a good deal. It can be purchased at the State Fair gift shop or several kiosks across the fairgrounds. (Next year buy it before the fair for a discount! I did!)
The best deal on pop at the fair is to buy a reusable State Fair cup, available at several vendors, for $5. Refills are then $1-1.25. And you can bring the cup back on subsequent visits to the fair (or even the next year like we did!)
What Not to Wear would have a field day at the Fair...but I say wear comfortable clothes and shoes. And definitely pants with pockets for your cell phone!

It's time---

2009-08-27T08:36:00.003-05:00

for the Great Minnesota Get-Together! Here are some of my favorite pics from previous years. I'm off to take in Day 1 of 2009 and take more great photos!

See you at the Fair!

Happy Monday! Enjoy!!!

2009-08-17T09:11:00.000-05:00

Blueberry Buckle

2009-08-15T08:53:00.006-05:00

1 1/4 cups flour

1/2 cup sugar

1/3 cup milk

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine, softened

1/4 cup shortening

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 egg

Mix sugar, butter, shortening and egg with spoon. Add milk and vanilla. Stir. Add remaining dry ingredients. Spread in ungreased 8 inch pan. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries Mix until crumbly: 1/2 cup sugar 1/3 cup flour 1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened 1/2 tsp cinnamon Sprinkle over blueberries. Bake 45-50 minutes at 350 degrees.

This is one of my favorite things to bake in the summer...or any time really. I was going to make it this morning, but didn't have any baking powder! But that has now been remedied, so Sunday morning we'll be enjoying some Blueberry Buckle (it's a coffeecake).

Time for a change

2009-08-12T08:05:00.001-05:00

Playing around with the background some. What do you think? Ready for a change? I might try a few others in the upcoming few days, so feel free to give a shout out if there's one you like!

Half Over? Or just begun?

2009-07-12T21:41:00.004-05:00

A shot of our new building, the Tilsner, shot from across the street

Ana during intermission at Kooza

For more about Kooza, check here

Picture I took after a long walk with Ana...check out that full moon

Ana with Grandma on the 4th of July

From the Elvis Costello concert at Taste. Awesome.

Ana at Costello concert

Farmer's Market...so nice to have in your backyard...who needs a garden?

June trip to the gardens near Lake Harriet

Anniversary trip to Red Wing

During our trip thru the countryside to enjoy Pizza on the Farm, I made Joel pull over so I could take this shot of a country church...beautiful

One of our regular stops now along the way to Red Wing is Northfield...here's Joel enjoying the popcorn stand...small towns--I still love them

I thought I'd share a few summer photos...the more recent shots starting at the top.

How did we reach the mid-point of summer? It's mid-point in my book when the Fourth is past and my daughter has celebrated another birthday. And, the baseball season is half over!

It is going way to fast....and while I am enjoying the warm weather, longer days, and time off here and there...I would like these months to pass a little slower!

Our summer really started with our move into the Tilsner Artist Coop. We are loving our new place, still settling in and decorating. I think it will take the whole summer to feel truly settled.

We took a break from the moving to celebrate our second anniversary. We enjoyed another trip to Red Wing and this time included a trip to Pizza on the Farm just outside Stockholm, WI. Try it...it's the best pizza!

We went straight from moving ourselves to moving my son, Cyrus. I'm done with moving!

Weekends I've been enjoying trips to the Farmer's Market, gardening in the spot outside our building and lots of time in the studio. This summer Cirque du Soleil set up their tents atop the parking lot directly across the street from our building. It was quite incredible watching the tents go up (watch time-lapse video of it here). Even more incredible was the actual show. Ana and I went to a performace as part of her 25th birthday celebration. (Yup, Ana is 25!)

And there's so much more I want to do this summer ... definitely more ballgames. We've gone to less than 10 Twins games and one Saints game...we'll be fixing that in the next few months. Maybe a road trip or two. The State Fair!!! This year for the first time I think I will be able to be on vacation during the whole fair! Wowza!

We still have a busy half to enjoy!

Wonderful Night

2009-06-21T19:38:00.001-05:00

I love Craig Ferguson and thought you might enjoy a chuckle as well.

It's a wonderful night indeed!

Cycling Race in Lowertown

2009-06-13T22:34:00.006-05:00

Living in Lowertown St. Paul offers entertainment right outside our door some days, especially during the summer. Every day we can watch the barges move down the river. Soon Cirque du Soleil will be setting up in the parking lot across the street. During the week we enjoy music in the park (next weekend is a jazz fest in Mears Park). And then there is always the Farmer's Market just down the street.

The first stage of the Minnesota Bicycle Festival took place this past Wednesday night in Lowertown St. Paul...the cyclists raced around Mears Park and right in front of Lowertown Commons (our old apartment building). It's the third year that I've caught this race...even if you're not a cycling fanatic it's hard not to get caught up in it when it's happening just outside your door. There was actually 2 races--a women's event as well as a men's event. Both races lasted about an hour. Weather was great this year. I managed to shoot a little video on my camera. This is from the last 10 minutes of the men's race (the video is only about 30 seconds) Note the gap between the 4 leaders and the rest of the pack.

A short retreat

2009-06-07T09:10:00.004-05:00

It has been a long month. May was all about moving to our new place. We painted, we packed, we hauled stuff over. We are now in our new space, but still working on getting settled. (If you haven't already checked it out, you can see pics of the new place here)

Joel and I took a much needed little break from the whole moving routine to celebrate our 2nd anniversary. We enjoyed what has become our favorite escape to Red Wing. It's a short road trip...long enough to feel like we're getting away and short enough that we're not spending tons of time in the car.

We travelled through Northfield on the way there. I love the feel of that town...small, with a beautiful Main Street, and lots of fun shopping (with even an art gallery and art stores). It was a beautiful day too...temps in the 70s, sunny, no bugs...perfect.

In Red Wing, we again stayed at our favorite B & B...the Moondance Inn . We slept in the lovely Garden Suite, but basically had the place to ourselves (we were the only guests that night). We have stayed at Moondance 7-8 times now and it sort of feels like our vacation home!

We took advantage of the lovely weather and enjoyed Pizza on the Farm! We've been waiting to enjoy this for 2 years and it was worth the wait. Basically there is this farm outside of Stockholm, Wisconsin (about a half hour from Red Wing) that every Tuesday during the warm weather months bakes pizza in their outdoor brick ovens. The pizza crust is made from flour they ground themselves. Most of the toppings are grown/produced on the farm as well. It is incredibly fresh and incredibly good. Hundreds of people typically come on a Tuesday night and it's quite a sight to see. You bring your own blanket/table/chairs and set up on the lawn. It was a wonderful picnic and a great way to celebrate our anniversary.

We're back to our regular routine now...back to trying to unpack and organize things.

A little something to make you smile!

2009-04-22T22:57:00.001-05:00

Sound of Music Train Station @ Yahoo! Video

A friend shared this on Facebook and I thought it worth sharing. Enjoy!!!

Art Crawl-Spring 2009

2009-04-19T23:11:00.002-05:00

Life promises to be plenty busy in the next month or so. I apologize in advance for being a bad blogger. But then if you know me, you know 1) that my blogging here has already slacked off and 2) that I do the bulk of my blogging these days at my art blog. Heck, I haven't even written in my baseball blog yet this season.

This weekend I was busy preparing for next weekend's art crawl. Hundreds of artists in St. Paul open up their studio to the public this coming weekend. I've done it a few times now and it is always a wonderful experience. If you have never gone to an art crawl I highly recommend it. You get to meet the artists. There is lots of great art. Free treats. Sometimes wine. Great people watching. Friday night there are generally street performers outside. It's like going to an art museum, but skipping the middle man and going directly to the artist.

There's always lots of last minute preparations. Of course, I always put things off. This weekend, in addition to finishing artwork, I was painting our studio door (with chalkboard paint...cool project), painting the frame of a mirror, and of course organizing...There's still lots to do, so I'll be busy all week.

So if you're looking for something to do this weekend, stop by my studio. I'll be serving up those little meatballs on Friday night (and other treats Saturday and Sunday).

Check out my art blog for more behind the scenes info, as well as a cute video made during the 2007 art crawl.

We're moving!!!

2009-04-13T18:16:00.004-05:00

Unit #507. Our new home. This is a picture of our apt. door. Yes, I really like this painting, but I will have to feature my own work. Can't wait.

Looking into the apt from the dining area. The pic is a little dark and it doesn't really show how beautiful that brick is. I love it.

Here's a better shot of the brick wall.

A shot from the dining area towards the front door (which is just past those closets).

A shot into the dining/kitchen area.

The wood floors (throughout) that I love.

Kitchen shot. Nothing special, but I do like that it's more open than our current galley kitchen.

Kitchen shot. Nothing special, but I do like that it's more open than our current galley kitchen.It's official. We will be moving during the month of May. I've been sitting on pins and needles during the application process, afraid to say much about it--lest I jinx the whole thing. So allow me to backtrack a bit to clue you all in.

About a month ago, we received the lease extension for our current place. Our lease expires June 1st. Now we love our place; it has many conveniences, loads of character, but with that comes a fairly hefty rent. Joel has lived here some 6 years and I moved in 2 years ago. We discussed the possibility of moving a year ago, but since I had been moving on an annual basis the previous 4 or some years and we were still settling into married life, we decided to stay put.

This year we thought about it a lot harder. There would be something nice about living in a place that we picked out together. It would force us to clear out some clutter. We could decorate a new place together. Still moving is hard work, not cheap, and hard work.

Joel decided to do a little more research about some the of the artist lofts/co-ops in our area. Generally the rent is considerably less and the spaces can be quite interesting. Joel found 2-bedroom units available in 2 buildings--the Carlton & Tilsner.

We looked at the Carlton building first. The Carlton is a newer renovation, located on University Avenue. While it had some great amenities, the living space felt small...it would not easily accomodate our stuff or my stepdaughter's wheelchair. Besides, we realized we didn't truly want to leave our neighborhood of lowertown St. Paul.

After looking at the Carlton, we felt we would probably be staying where we are at, but Joel went ahead and looked at the unit available at the Tilsner...just a block from where we live now. After looking at, he called me excited...and we scheduled a time when I could take a look as well.

I, too, could see the possibilities. As they say, the "bones" of the space are good. The brick walls are incredible. The light is good (even if my poor pictures don't show it). The unit is on the 5th floor and if you look past the parking lot across the street, you can see the river. We both love the open floor plan and have some creative ideas on how to use it. Yes, the bedrooms are small, but the living room/dining area is huge. We give up the conveniences of this building (underground parking, our own laundry, and 2 bathrooms), but we gain so much.

By moving into this building, we will be moving into a vibrant art community. One of the requirements for living in the building is that at least one of the residents of the unit needs to be an artist (that could be a visual artist, writer, or theater person...). I think this idea appeals to both Joel and I equally. It is what we love about the lowertown community...that it is an artist community.

So we decided to submit our application. After 2 weeks of waiting and dealing with setbacks, we got the word today. The unit is ours!

We will start our move May 1st...but do it slowly throughout the month (we don't have to be out of our current place till June 1). We are beyond excited. We are thrilled to have a new place that will truly be our first place chosen together. We have already been discussing how to arrange things, what walls we want to paint...essentially, how to make the place "our home".

Yup, we've got a lot of work ahead. But we're excited.

I can't wait to show you pictures of how it all looks when we move in!

SPRING

2009-03-20T06:44:00.003-05:00

At last!!!

St. Pat's day

2009-03-19T09:17:00.003-05:00

Everybody loves a parade...here we go!

Tossing the girl in the air trick

Ana

Ah, men in skirts...I mean kilts

Parade goers

Here in St. Paul St. Patty's Day is a big thing. If you're Irish you don't go to work or school, you go to the parade. I'm a wee bit Irish & I love a parade, so Ana & I enjoyed the parade--which started at noon right outside my door. It was a good time.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-11T22:51:00.002-05:00

We learned some new moves!

2009-02-25T22:14:00.001-06:00

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Valentine's and more

2009-02-18T18:49:00.005-06:00

We did a little bowling at the casino on our way to Red Wing.

Our room at Moondance.

O.k. we really have started taking ballroom dancing lessons...just starting...focusing right now on latin rhythm dance (merengue, rhumba, chacha...). So it seemed like a great idea to go watch some professional ballroom dancers as part of our Valentine's celebration. That was my gift to Joel...last Friday we attended a very theatrical ballroom dance performance at the Southern Theatre. It was very romantic, and inspiring...we have no intentions of ever reaching anything close to that level of dancing, but it would be fun to be able to do some real dancing with some level of grace. Joel and I approach the lessons in very different ways. Joel's the extrovert and loves the social aspect. Being the introvert, I definitely prefer not drawing attention to us...at least till we get a little better (and that will be a while). But it's all about having fun...and obviously Joel was having some fun when he put that little video together. (There's another one coming that you'll get a kick out of!)

Monday we enjoyed the second half of our Valentine celebration. Joel booked our honeymoon suite at the Moondance Inn for a night of romance and relaxation. It was a much needed break from our day to day routine. We also enjoyed a nice trip home through Northfield, which included a long rest stop for lunch and some shopping. There's a great bead store in Northfield, so I went home happy.

So now we're back at home and back in our regular routine...and maybe with a little dancing mixed in.

What We've Been Doing Lately

2009-02-12T13:48:00.003-06:00

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A relaxing weekend...nice weather included

2009-02-01T20:21:00.003-06:00

It has been a great weekend. For the first time in ages, I haven't felt like crap. It's about time.

Friday night, otherwise known as "Date Night" in our home, Joel and I went for dinner at Outback and then a trip to Dick Blick (an art supply store). I bought 20 canvases, mostly small ones, but they're having their semi-annual canvas sale. Dick Blick was followed by a mega-trip to the grocery store. I know, a super-hot date, but it was a good night.

Saturday, aah lovely Saturday, the day the temperature climbed above freezing for the first time in ages. It reached something like 44 or 45 degrees...the warmest we've been since November 6th. I started out the morning in the studio to do a little work. Then in the afternoon I did some running around...driving with the windows down to feel the cool breeze on my face.

Saturday evening we stepped outside our door to watch the Winter Carnival Torchlight parade. St. Paulites like to celebrate winter with not one, but two parades. The first one was last Saturday when it was brutally cold. Ana and I watched that one from the warmth of my 2nd floor studio (which overlooked the parade route). This week it was warm enough to watch the parade outdoors...and Joel & I watched the parade from our doorsteps, along with his 2 kids and my son, Cyrus. It was actually quite fun and hey this particular parade, which is the final event of the Winter Carnival, is supposed to celebrate the end of winter. (We can only wish).

Today was another glorious day. We did not quite reach 44 degrees, but it was still beautiful regardless. Again, I started the day over at the studio. Then this afternoon, Ana and I ran around shopping on Grand Avenue doing as Ana said, "the St. Paul version of Uptown". We hit an antique store, Starbucks, 2 vintage clothing stores, and last, but not least, Cheapo records. I walked out of Cheapo's with a few treasures...including a collection of 70's love songs from Motown. I snatched that CD up once I saw it included the Spinners' One of A Kind (Love Affair). The fact that the CD included 2 Barry White songs was a bonus!

Now we're wrapping up the weekend by watching Mama Mia...I think I might actually end this weekend feeling relaxed. It's about time.

Barack Obama - times they are a changin'

2009-01-17T09:21:00.003-06:00

The times are hard and often discouraging. Watch the news and you will hear about companies going under, folks being laid off, food shelves bare from increased numbers of users...Even in my little corner of the world of social work, budgets and services are being cut in a time of greatest needs.

This song has been stuck in my head for the last several days. I can't recollect a time when our country has ever needed change more. Maybe instead of talking bailouts we should be looking at ways to reinvent ourselves. Isn't that what America is all about? We can do things better! "America: New and Improved"...I think that should be our mantra!

And yet, in this time of great despair, there is hope. I look forward to Barack Obama's inauguration with great hope. We won't dig ourselves out of this hole immediately and there will be stumbles along the way...but his presidency is our greatest hope...the times they are a changin' (praise the lord).

(Note: Initially I wanted to find a Bob Dylan version of this song...but then I found this one on YouTube that featured James Taylor, Carly Simon and friends from the No Nukes movie concert that I saw many, many times years ago! Great stuff!)

(Another note for local folks: I'll be watching the Inauguration with other folks at Riverview Theater in south Mpls. Free and open to the public. Doors open at 9:30 with the Inauguration around 10:30! I think it will be a great place to be!!!)

Holiday pics

2009-01-10T20:11:00.002-06:00

I know...I haven't done much writing here lately. Here's a few pics from the holidays. (I'm starting to play around a bit with picasa!)

Holiday Blessings

2008-12-25T18:09:00.003-06:00

Amazing. As crazy as the time leading up to Christmas seems, it seems to come and go in an instant. December has been a whirlwind...and I lamely offer that as an excuse for not writing more.

The closer it gets to Christmas, the crazier my work becomes. Crazier and harder. As you can imagine, the holidays is a difficult time to be in the line of work of "helping others". Stress piles up for everyone and it's hard not to feel that. I try to bring home with me the good stuff...the joy in helping make the holidays a little easier for families that don't have a lot of resources. Joel and I had a good time playing Mr & Mrs Claus for the families (even if we came home with the flu). It was a tough year for our Holiday Store for our families...donations were down, but we managed to serve all our families.

And while I worked the last few weeks to make the holidays better for others, I was trying hard not to go crazy making Christmas better for my own family. Thankfully I get a 2-week holiday break from my work and starting Friday (when my break began) I was busy running around like every other crazy fool.

And so I celebrated Christmas with my kids and hubby yesterday. "Santa" was very, very good to me (Thank you, honey!) But in the end, it's the combination of all the "little things" that make the holidays complete...the time spent with my kids and husband, listening to the same holiday music, eating the same cookies, decorating the tree with the same ornaments...these are the things that I treasure year after year.

And I know that I am blessed.

The surprise at the end of this post

2008-12-14T19:51:00.004-06:00

I was really kicking myself for not making it outside yesterday, so I was determined to venture out today. Not the best move. My daughter Ana was off today, so we headed to downtown Mpls to check out the Dayton's, er Macy's 8th floor display. We took the bus...because of the weather and the fact I hate driving downtown Mpls.

I just have to say that I was a bit disappointed with Macy's this year. The display was about half the size it normally is and there were none of the "illusion" scenes they typically have. It was still beautiful, but didn't quite measure up to past years.

Ana and I did a bit of shopping. I love shopping downtown Mpls, but it was getting colder and windier as the afternoon wore on. Plus I started feeling like crap. I found out a few weeks ago that I have a severe vitamin D deficiency...which explains my severe fatigue and muscle/bone fatigue & weakness. After walking around for a few hours I was done. Actually I was in pain. We headed home, but the 8 block walk home was miserable.

I'm not looking forward to this bout of winter weather that's coming this week. I would love to hibernate!

And now for the surprise at the end of this post: As a means of promoting my Etsy shop and art blog, I am hosting a giveaway on my art blog. It's also a way to show appreciation to those folks who are following my artful adventures. I will be giving away a necklace to one of my viewers. Check out my art blog for details. All you have to do is leave a comment (on my art blog).

The birthday revisited

2008-12-13T18:37:00.005-06:00

Joel as Santa last year with a friend's child.

Our room at Moondance

I was just retelling the birthday story to my mom and enough time has passed to make it somewhat funny...so I thought it might be time to share it here. Be forewarned: if you cannot stomach stories containing vomiting references, you better stop here. (I promise, it's more comical than wretched)

My birthday was last Friday--December 5th. I turned 48. Far too close to 50, but that's a post for another day.

On Thursday evening and again on Friday, Joel accompanied me to work to play the part of Santa for our annual holiday parties for the families that we serve. I played Mrs. Claus. Nearly every kid in attendance sat on Joel's, er, Santa's lap to have their picture taken. Joel is a fantastic Santa. He was a real trooper handling on those kids.

Following work on Friday, Joel and I went to dinner at Famous Dave's with my kids. It was nice having dinner with my kids...then we headed home.

I was wiped. Joel obviously was too, because I think he was in bed by 10:30. I was a little miffed that he went to bed so early on my birthday, but truth be told, I was exhausted too...and I think I was in bed at 11. At the time I was thinking we were both getting too old to have a late wild night.

Around midnight Joel said he wasn't feeling well...and soon enough I heard some wretched sounds from the bathroom...Santa was puking. About an hour later, I was in the other bathroom doing the same. Thank god, we have two bathrooms...we needed them both.

My first thought was that our dinner at Famous Dave's was making us sick...cause frankly, that was the first thing coming out. (Not recommended) I managed to reach my son, who was not sick. Then I thought it was my birthday lunch. I was a little pissed that I was being hit with food poisoning for the second time in 6 months...and on my birthday no less.

Sometime around 2 in the morning, with Joel and I each in separate bathrooms puking, I heard a LOUD crash. I rushed to Joel's bathroom as quickly as I could and tried to get in. Joel was on the floor in front of the door. Eventually Joel was able to get up...and when I knew he was reasonably ok I returned to what I had been doing...in the other bathroom.

A few hours later I heard Joel moving around...and got up just in time to see him crash to the floor in our first bedroom (we were by that point sleeping in separate beds). I tried to help him up, but couldn't...and he couldn't get up on his own. Finally, I just threw him a pillow and blanket and told him to stay put until we were stronger. We crashed for a few hours.

Eventually Joel managed to get up to the bed...and immediately puked again (thankfully in the Twins pail I had given him hours earlier...yup, we were each puking in his n' hers Twins puckets). I couldn't handle that yet and ran with my pail to the back bathroom. (Essentially we switched beds and bathrooms).

In the morning light it was easy to see the damage that had been done...in Joel's first collapse in the bathroom he had poked his eye with the door jam...not a flexible door jam, but an old, SOLID door jam with no metal tip. We were lucky he didn't rip his eyelid open...but his eye was completely swollen shut and about the size of a golf ball. On the second fall, he skinned up his knee pretty good.

Still too weak to think about going anywhere, we slept most of the day and ate a few crackers and applesauce. About 5 in the evening I took Joel to the ER to have his eye checked out. The doctors were pretty impressed...but no real damage was done (thankfully).

We had planned a number of activities for my birthday, but obviously everything on Saturday was cancelled. Fortunately, we were able to salvage the trip to Red Wing to stay at the Moondance Inn that we had planned for Sunday/Monday. I told Joel both my eyes would have to be swollen shut to miss that. It was a lowkey trip, but there wasn't any better place to recuperate. We lounged around in our jammies and soaked in the hot tub. And Joel pampered us both by booking massages at a local Red Wing spa.

Oh ya, I should add that it probably wasn't food poisoning at all, but a nasty bout of the flu...a whole bunch of folks at my work were sick as well.

So that's the birthday story...who says we're too old for wild nights!

Tillie's Beans

2008-12-09T20:32:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the long overdue post. Work (meaning that 9-5 job) is in that holiday frenzy mode. And then for my birthday, I got the flu. Thankfully the flu came after the birthday dinner with the family...but it was/is nasty stuff. Me and the hubby are still recovering. But I managed to salvage a lovely few days away at the bed & breakfast we love. It was just where we needed to go to recuperate.

Now back to the grind. And speaking of grind...as in coffee...

A big announcement: Last week I dropped off four of my paintings to be hung at my favorite morning coffee shop: Tillie's Bean located at 2803 E 38th Street (right near the light rail station). The paintings include the Birch Trees pictured above. More on this later...I just wanted to get the word out. Stop by to see them. And buy some coffee (I can't recommend the best coffee...I'm not a coffee drinker...but the chai is Wonderful).

More later...

Etsy Treasury and second sale! Yippee!!!

2008-11-25T23:02:00.000-06:00

I'm so psyched...it's been a good night on Etsy. First, I snagged a treasury. It's hard to explain, but it's a gallery of other people's stuff that you put together...and then hope it's featured on the front page of Etsy. Anyway, if you have a minute, take a look, click on some of the items, cause it will help me get to the front page.

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=23227

Second, I sold another necklace! So weird too...cause I accidently relisted it so someone might see it for their treasury. (I meant to relist a different necklace). It's one of the first necklaces I listed.

I'm not sure I'm going to sleep tonight!

James Taylor singing "River"

2008-11-25T15:59:00.002-06:00

Just a little holiday treat for folks...it's not exactly a holiday song, but it's on JT's holiday CD...anyway, it's peaceful...this performance of Joni Mitchell's song was performed by James Taylor at a tribute to Joni (with whom he had a little fling at one time, but that's ancient history)...anyways, enjoy.

Monday, Monday

2008-11-24T15:45:00.002-06:00

It's been sort of a wild, crazy Monday. So far. The good part of the day was waking up, checking my Etsy shop (a morning ritual that I take part in every morning over oatmeal) and discovering that my Etsy shop is being featured on another Etsian's blog. How cool is that? I'm hoping it will bring some viewers to my shop, but if you have a minute, please wander over to this blog and then visit dragonfly's store. She features practical, but stylish baby items. Her blog site is:

http://www.dragonflyfinedesigns.blogspot.com/

I plan to be promoting some other Etsy artists over on my site from time to time, so please check that out as well.

So I blissfully head off to work and when I get there discover a gruesome site within 5 feet of my desk. A mouse had been caught (and killed) in a rat trap, which created a bloodbath. Fortunately the trap had flipped over, but it created an ugly scene nonetheless. I found someone who removed the mouse, but the mess... No, I did not clean that up...but hid it by the strategic placement of a large garbage can. (Thank you Susan for doing that nasty job).

You may ask why my work is using rat traps. I work in a very old building that was once a convent. It's a beautiful building, but old and the little critters find there way in...even up to the 4th floor where my desk is. A few folks thought they saw a rat, not just a mouse...hence, the rat trap. I refuse to believe that there is a rat in our building. I can barely deal with mice.

After that it's been a crazy day of running around. I'm hoping for a peaceful evening at home.

Modpodge

2008-11-16T19:44:00.002-06:00

All right, I know I've been on a bit of a blogging hiatus. Not exactly, really, since I've written a few posts on my art blog.

Part of it is that I'm sick of the gray. The gray that has been our sky for the past few weeks. Whenever there has been any sun, it's been gone by the time I get home...because then it's dark. Weather-wise, this is my least favorite season.

But on the other hand, the next 6 weeks or so is one of my favorite seasons...the holiday season.

I've been busy working on holiday crafts. Much of my free time of late has been spent over at my workshop, um, I mean studio. There at one table I'm working on a few new paintings. Then, when I need a break from painting (or something needs to dry), I flip to another table where I'm working on holiday crafts.

I'm working on several sets of holiday ornaments...the kind I've been making for years with tissue paper and modpodge. I love modpodge. And tissue paper. My hope is to have these featured in my Etsy shop soon.

Have you seen my Etsy shop yet? It's been slow going. I've had 2 sales. Only one sale shows because I sold a necklace to my sister-in-law (thanks Claudia) off of Etsy. When I'm not working the 9-5 gig or at the studio, I'm sitting in my recliner beading. I have new necklaces I'm getting ready to list on Etsy. Take a look, please. I don't really care if you buy anything, but if you stop by "heart" me...it's a mood lifter. Think about checking out some of the Esty shops...it could lead to some holiday shopping right at home!

So that's it for now. I'll let you know when the new items are up on Etsy.

Vacation Wrap up

2008-11-04T21:01:00.002-06:00

Sorry for my tardiness in writing about my trip to Arizona. I guess writing while I listen to election coverage is as good a time as ever.

It was a wonderful trip...good to get away. And Sedona is inspirational on many levels. First off, geographically it is a fascinating area. The red rock canyons are spectacular...and unlike any other part of the country I've seen. Sedona is the center of red rock canyon land. The colors of the rock are something to behold, coupled with the bluest of skies...amazing. I couldn't take enough pictures of the red rock...and I don't think my pictures really do them justice.

And then, Sedona is a very "artsy" community. The town is filled to the brim with various art galleries/shops. It also boasts a very nice Community Art Center. We tried to take in as much as we could, but battled sensory overload much of the week. The weather...outstanding. It was a little warmer than average when we were there...and I was thrilled. Highs in the mid-80's, no humidity (making for good-hair days!), no clouds, crisp air. We managed to set aside a little time to sit by the pool!

There were lots of bead shops in/around Sedona...and my favorite was actually going out of business, so I scooped up lots of good deals. I did manage to make a few necklaces while in Arizona (and they're up on Etsy already!).

One of the side trips we took during the week was to an abandoned copper mining town named Jerome. The town is now "inhabited" by various artists...basically they have taken over all the little shops...there are still a few saloons set up as such. It was a lovely town to wander through and see alot of original artwork...often with the artists present. We actually stopped to watch a glass blower do his thing. I actually enjoyed viewing art in this venue much more than in the overpriced galleries of Sedona.

It was hard to return home...in the sense that it's hard to return to the reality of "real life", which includes juggling work, the chores of keeping a home running, family obligations...I am relieved that Minnesota bounced back from it's brief interlude of cold weather to grace us with a few more warm days. I hear that more winter-like weather is on it's way soon. I think I'll be pulling out those "warm" Arizona pics quite a bit this coming winter.

I VOTED

2008-11-04T18:36:00.000-06:00

DID YOU?

Sedona

2008-11-01T17:24:00.005-05:00

A shot of the hills near where we were staying

The red rock canyons are incredible

The variety of vegetation surprised me...there were trees with leaves changing colors. This shot was taken by a creek near Montezuma's Castle.

Montezuma's Castle...mistakenly named Montezuma's Castle because white discoverers assumed it had been built by Aztec Indians (it was built by a much smaller tribe). I don't know how they managed to build this...or live there...it was a straight climb up these rocks to their homes in the rocks---and they were not close to the ground!

Another shot by Montezuma Castle...the sky was so blue!

Another rock formation...don't ask me the name!

A few shots of the red rocks at sunrise. Truly amazing!

A few shots of where we were staying. I loved all the adobe homes.

Cactus!

So I've returned from Sedona. It was beautiful...highs in the 80's, no humidity (resulting in good hair days), no clouds, beautiful red rock canyons, lots of art and bead stores...a little bit of heaven.

I'll share the pics for now...details later.

It's time to go

2008-10-23T22:56:00.003-05:00

I am finishing up my packing and preparations for my trip to Sedona. It's been crazy busy at work the past few days. My work day ended with me locking my car keys in the ignition. Thank god for AAA.

So I'm excited and a little nervous. And strangely a little sad. I have not taken many out-of-town vacations in my life, especially without family. I have only flown anywhere 2 other times! So while I am overwhelmingly excited about this wonderful opportunity, I am also aware that I am leaving my family behind...and I am not any more used to that than I am to flying. I spent a little time with both my kids today and once I finish this packing, I'll be spending some time with my hubby. I know I will miss them while I'm gone.

Sometimes you have to leave your life in order to appreciate your life even more.

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2008-10-22T07:44:00.000-05:00

In two days I will be heading out of town, meeting up with my best friend and fellow artist, Julie, at the airport in Phoenix. From there we will drive to Sedona, where we plan to spend a week together in a self-prescribed artist retreat.

I can't wait.

Julie and I have been friends since our kids came into this world (they're now in their early 20's). Initially, we worked together at the U libraries...both having majored in Studio Arts. Then we had kids together. Then, living miles apart, we went through ugly divorces together and raised our kids as single parents.

As we struggled to raise our kids singlehandedly, we dreamed of someday being able to go on a vacation together, just to spend time together and make art.

The time has come.

I'm not sure if I will have access to a computer while I am gone. If you don't hear from me before Halloween that is the explanation.

I'll have plenty of stories and pictures to share when I return.

First Sale

2008-10-18T08:27:00.003-05:00

I had my first Etsy sale! I had my first Etsy sale!

The first thing I've been doing each morning is checking my Etsy shop...I almost thought I was dreaming when I saw there was a sale. (I sold my Follow Your Heart Create Necklace pictured on the left. Don't worry, Stacy, your necklace has been made. And if anyone else wanted one, I still have more of those beads!)

Yippee! It's a good day!

Tearjerker

2008-10-16T22:23:00.003-05:00

If you're sick of political ads and stories about our failing economy, here's a story that is sure to touch your heart. It was broadcast on Kare11 News tonight and even the second time it made me cry. Click here and then play the video.

Art Crawl weekend

2008-10-09T22:20:00.002-05:00

I am busy (very busy) with final preparations for the Fall Art Crawl. I'm anxious for the prep work to be done and the crawl to begin. I'm excited about family and friends visiting my studio. I wonder what new visitors will have to say about my artwork. And as a bonus I'm selling (or trying to sell) some the necklaces I've recently made.

Feel free to stop by. If you stop over at my art blog you can click on the links to learn more about the crawl and read my tips for exploring the crawl.

Hope to see you there.

Open for Business

2008-10-03T22:58:00.003-05:00

For those of you who don't know, I have been preparing for a few months now to open up an Etsy shop...an online "store" that sells handmade items to folks around the world. I plan to sell some of my crafted items and original artwork in my Etsy shop. In the past few weeks I've been doing some of the necessary work in preparation of listing items for sale. Last night I finally was ready to list my first item.

It didn't really go smoothly. I "lost" the listing a few times...listing an item is a multi-step process and on more than one occasion I lost or basically deleted my listing before I was done. There is also no inherent way to save an unfinished listing and go back to it later. (I found a way later). Then when it came time to upload images, I couldn't get it to work. I hit my head against the wall for a good hour before I came to the realization that it was an Etsy problem and not a Risa problem. No one was getting their pictures up on Etsy. So I saved my work, went to bed very late, and then woke up very early this morning to upload my images.

Viola! My first listing was ready to be posted. My Etsy shop is officially open for business.

I was pretty excited today to see it up for the whole world to see. Tonight I added a second item. In the coming weeks (especially after the Art Crawl), I'll be listing more items.

For now I am listing necklaces that I have beaded. More handmade items and original artwork to follow.

(Pictured above are images of necklaces that are or will be featured in my Etsy shop. Please click on the left side buttons to go to my Etsy shop)

My Day

2008-10-01T20:52:00.003-05:00

As a social worker, I spend a lot of time with people; hopefully helping them. Some days my job is just hard. I watch as families struggle to find a way to feed their children and put warm clothes on their backs. I listen as people tell me their life stories...of childhoods spent without loving parents and growing up in foster care. How do you grow up to be loving, caring, protective parents if you never saw how that's done? How do you heal that sort of hurt?

My day is spent juggling compassion, while scrambling to find resources. My day is sometimes being social worker/taxi driver--helping families get to those resources. My day is spent showing parents how to be the type of parents they wished for as a kid. Sometimes before you get to that place you have to deal with all the bad stuff that came first.

I believe in the resilency of kids and adults. I believe in the power to heal from all that hurt and be a better person. I have to or I could never do my job.

But sometimes at the end of the day, I come home tired, discouraged, and for a moment hopeless. I'm tired from being with people and just want time to myself. I don't necessarily want to hear on tv about politics or how the economy is failing. You don't have to tell me how hard a time families are having--I see it every day. I don't need to hear any more doom and gloom. And I don't want to hear a bunch of promises either.

So my evening may be spent escaping in a baseball game or even better, doing something creative.

And then the next day, I'm ready to do it all again.

Ahoy!

2008-09-21T18:25:00.003-05:00

Well, I think the Golden Slugger's birthday celebration may officially be over. Friday night we decided to take advantage of the warm weather and drive out to Stillwater. On a whim, we went on the Paddleboat dinner cruise up (or down?) the St. Croix. It was a beautiful night; very relaxing being on the water. And fortunately, no pirates were encountered. It was, after all, National Pirates Day.

The rest of the weekend has been laid back as well. I did a bunch of shopping/errands (lots of stops at Joann's, Michael's and Dick Blick)...and I finished 3 more necklaces.

This last little bit of summer was quite a treat. I think we'll need to savor this weekend for quite a while to come.

Happy Birthday, Joel! My Golden Slugger!

2008-09-16T08:21:00.000-05:00

September 8th

2008-09-08T23:14:00.003-05:00

I returned to work today after a week off...not a bad day...actually a fairly decent day. Late this afternoon, Joel called me and I answered my phone by saying, "How's the man I said "yes" to 2 years ago today?" Yup, today's the day we got engaged at the baseball game (that story here).

What was nice was that my husband remembered the day and wanted to do something to commemorate the day. We settled on a wonderful romantic dinner at Kincaid's, a St. Paul restaurant we've been meaning to check out. My review--great for a special dinner. And if you go early--between 5-6 pm--you can get a fabulous 3-course dinner for $25.

And just let me say, I'm still tickled pink that I said "yes" two years ago today.

RNC

2008-09-04T21:22:00.004-05:00

Police State?

The view at Rice Park--the location of the MSNBC broadcast

Landmark Center decked out for the RNC

No getting past this gate

Just wanted to post a few photos that I took on my walk downtown today to catch some of the action of the RNC...well, what you can see from the street. It's been sort of a surreal event taking place in our backyard. There have been cops everywhere in every form...on foot, on bikes, on horses, and even in the air (helicopters). There are cops in uniform, cops in polo shirts and cops in riot gear. And then there are the Secret Service...some in suits and some with bullet proof vests that identify them as such. Downtown St. Paul is normally a very quiet city, but not this week.

I look forward to a return to normal.

RNC coming to town

2008-08-29T23:24:00.003-05:00

The Republicans are heading to town. And I would like to run for the hills. Not purely because it's the Republicans (although that doesn't help), but because I'm tired of this whole convention mess before it even begins. For months here in St. Paul we've heard about how many people are coming to town, what roads will be closed, what businesses will be closed...We've witnessed the banners being hung and the streets being cleaned and spruced up with flowers. It's all nice, but I can't wait for this whole thing to be over.

It's not like the "locals" are encouraged to participate or even to observe. If you want to take a walk anywhere near the Xcel Center, you better be ready to be frisked by a Secret Agent. No thank you, I'll pass.

To be honest with you, I'm a little tired of politics in general. I'm tired of the rhetoric and political posturing. I'm not really interested in debating politics with others either. I know who I'm voting for. I encourage everyone to vote. But I don't want to get in an argument about it. My vote is no more important than your vote...my opinion is no more important than yours. I'm not going to try and sway you if you should think differently than me. I just hope you go out and vote.

Don't get me wrong--I think this presidential election is very important. And I really do care about the outcome. But I hope this election makes this country more unified rather than divided between two candidates.

The very nature of elections doesn't encourage that.

So during the upcoming week of the Republican Convention, don't be surprised if I bury my head in the sand. Wake me when it's over.

State Fair Trip #1

2008-08-23T18:24:00.003-05:00

It was a good first day at the Fair...a little warm and humid, but the breeze helped keep things from being unbearable. We got to the fairgrounds around 10 am and stayed till 6:30 pm--over 8 hours at the fair! We were exhausted when we got home!

We enjoyed some of our favorite treats--pork chops on a stick, malts from the Empire Commons bldg (frequently referred to as the "Dairy Bldg"), shaved ice, mini donuts and of course, a foot long corn dog. I'm looking forward to my next trip to enjoy some treats I skipped the first day.

We made the full circle of the grounds, probably more than once. We made quick trips through the Fine Arts, Creative Activities, Horticulture and Education buildings...planning to return for longer visits when the weather is a little cooler. Somehow Joel convinced me to ride on the Sky Glider again this year...it left me a little queasy at the beginning, but you do get great pictures from up there (which I will be uploading soon).

The International Bazaar has been rebuilt...and looked awesome. The Twins tent moved to a better location...close to the International Bazaar and next to the FSN North tent.

Even though I'm fighting a cold, we're planning Trip #2 for tomorrow. We'll be taking my mom and Joel's daughter along with us. This won't be a 8 hour trip, but it should be a great day nonetheless.

Tomorrow, tomorrow...I love you, tomorrow...

2008-08-20T22:02:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow's the BIG day: the first day of the Great Minnesota Get-Together; also known as the STATE FAIR. I have purchased oodles of discount tickets, as well as 2 coupon books. My camera has been cleared of all old photos and its battery has been charged. I am ready to go.

I am a bit concerned that I have a bit of a sore throat, but I think that can be attributed to the screaming I did at the ballgame today (Twins win 3-2, but those dreaded White Sox continue to win as well).

Hopefully, I'll fall asleep quickly tonight, so that we can head out fairly early tomorrow (9 am?). I already know what our first stop at the fair will be: pork chop on a stick.

Yum!

Fair Time

2008-08-17T20:36:00.002-05:00

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Anyone who knows me, knows that I live for the fair! And it's almost Fair time!

The Fair opens on Thursday, August 21...and rain or shine, Joel and me will be there!

Just to help get you in the mood, here's a montage of photos from our visits (I think 5 trips) from last year.

Oh, and I found a blog of a bigger Fair fanatic...check it out at www.myprontopup.com.

The Office Max Rubberband Man

2008-08-14T12:35:00.002-05:00

As promised, the Office Max commercial featuring the Rubberband Man. Enjoy!

Hump Day present

2008-08-13T09:18:00.005-05:00

Call it my "Hump Day" present to you--The Spinners performing Rubberband Man on the Midnight Special--another blast from the past, courtesy of YouTube. (This could become a weekly tradition). Check out the outfits...and hang in there till the end when they pull out the rubberbands. I'm not lying!

This is a song my high school band played for years. I can't hear the song without thinking of this small-town band playing "Rubberband Man" marching down Main Street of rural America.

Office Max did some very fun commercials a few years back featuring their own Rubberband Man...maybe I'll bring you that tomorrow.

Until then...

Date Night on Monday

2008-08-11T20:15:00.002-05:00

Joel and I generally have "Date Night" on Friday. It's something we stuck to once we were living together and not "dating" any longer. Sometimes we don't do all that much, but it's a night reserved for the two of us.

Tonight, quite spontaneously, we found ourselves in the middle of what felt like a Date Night.

After work I wanted to head to a bookstore and before that, we grabbed dinner. The weather is wonderful tonight...a cool breeze providing welcome relief from summer heat.

We normally drive past Como Zoo on our way home and initially decided to stop to take a walk. Then I had the idea of playing miniature golf.

We got started on the course just before a HUGE group walked up. This was the first time Joel and I have played miniature golf. Joel took an early lead, then I pulled ahead by the 9th hole. But a few shots later, I was again falling behind.

In the end, Joel was the winner...although, I want a re-match.

We wrapped the evening up with a stop at Izzy's for ice cream.

Now that's what I call Date Night.

A blast from the past...

2008-08-06T09:02:00.005-05:00

This morning on my way in to work I enjoyed singing along to an old Paul Simon song "You Can Call me Al". Yesterday it was Paul Simon's "Fifty Ways to Leave a Lover". Some time ago, when I was still working at the Y, me and another person started singing the chorus to that song...and the younger crowd were a bit dumbfounded. Paul Simon has a knack for writing nearly nonsensical lyrics to little ditties that you will remember for years. And they more often than not bring a smile to your lips.

So, as I was listening to the song this morning, I remembered how much I loved the video to this song. Paul Simon, along with Chevy Chase--who sings as if he's Paul Simon. It's a very, very simple video, but Chevy Chase makes it funny. Simon keeps a straight face...until the end, where he cracks a smile.

So thanks to Youtube, I'm bringing you this video.

Hope it brings a smile to your day. Sit back with a diet coke, if you have one, and enjoy.

Weekend mix

2008-07-27T20:24:00.004-05:00

Another busy weekend--juggling time with kids, time with husband, and even some time for myself. (To see what I've been up to during "me time" check out my art blog--you'll learn more about this painting "Force of Nature". )

Joel's been taking care of his daughter more this past week, because her mother has been out of town. In fact, we spent a few nights apart, so he could take care of Bree at her place (which means he was staying overnight at his ex's house, which is a little strange...but makes more sense in the long run). Friday night Joel came home for several hours so we could go out to dinner and then spend some time together.

Saturday afternoon Joel brought Bree here for the remainder of the weekend (Bree normally stays with us from Saturday afternoon till Monday afternoon). Noel was here to watch Bree on Saturday afternoon, so we went out to catch a movie.

This is the summer of the action-adventure, and more often than not, action-adventure based on a comic book hero. That works for some folks (including my husband). But I was wiped and wanted something slower paced. And preferably a small theater not crammed with people.

We found a great movie at Edina's Landmark Theaters. We saw "The Visitor"...small, independent film that I hadn't heard of, but got great reviews. Well-deserved, I would add. It was just a nice quiet film, that told a story well. Check it out if you get the chance.

Tomorrow--back to work. I wish the weekend didn't go by so fast.

Farmer's Market Delight

2008-07-20T09:53:00.002-05:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Beans, Onions, Carrots, Potatoes, Zucchinnis, Tomatoes (safe ones), Cukes, Eggs, Kettle Corn, and lots and lots of flowers...all at the Farmers Market right outside our door. The Market is hitting its' summer prime. All we're waiting for now is sweet corn and melons!

The market is crazy busy on Saturdays, but a little less so on Sundays (note to mothers with young children: this may be an easier day to visit the market. And there is a nice kid park 2 blocks away next to Channel 2 )

I thought I would share again the video montage I made last year. And if you come down to the Market, be sure to give me a holler!

Cute kitty pictures alert

2008-07-17T20:00:00.002-05:00

Some cute pictures of Ana's cat, Honeykins. The first is the cat getting ready to pounce. The last four were taken when she was trying to figure out how to get to the strip of fabric that was blowing in the wind--but outside the window.

I bring you...

2008-07-14T10:41:00.004-05:00

... not pictures from vacation (they're coming soon), but an updated Salmonella outbreak map (from 7-11-08). As you can see, the number of MN cases has grown to 19! And now Mississippi and West Virginia are reporting confirmed cases. Apparently, not much salsa and such is eaten in the Great Plains states free of salmonella. Maybe the Dakotas should make that part of their summer tourism campaign..."vacation in a state free of salmonella..."

Beware of fresh tomatoes, jalapeno peppers, and fresh cilantro...all suspected culprits!

Happy Birthday, Ana!

2008-07-10T09:55:00.004-05:00

Today, July 10th is my daughter's birthday. She turns 24 today! I am off from work to celebrate with her (and my mom is here to join the celebration as well). Ana is an incredible young woman. She faces life, even when it is hard, with strength and determination. I love spending time with her. I am extremely proud to be her mom and still get teary-eyed when I think of the day she came into this world. It changed my life completely--and I wouldn't change that for a minute.

I wrote about her birth last year on this blog. Rather than try to say it all again, I am re-posting that post here--

Tuesday my daughter, Ana, turned 23. I don't think it will matter how many years go by: I will always remember with vivid clarity what it was like welcoming my first child to this world. I am a "goosebumps" kind of girl, so when I recall these type of life events, I often get a case of goosebumps. Goosebumps are often accompanied by teary eyes.

My first pregnancy was considered "high risk"...not only was Ana in the breech position, they thought part of her brain might be outside of her skull. Ultrasound technology was relatively new at that time and they weren't always sure what they were seeing. It definitely lacked "high definition". Throughout my pregnancy, I saw one specialist after another--all who were afraid to give me any straight answers. The joy and anticipation of my first pregnancy was also fraught with fear. When I was 8 months pregnant another specialist walked in after yet another ultrasound and greeted me with the words: "When I read your chart, I thought this was a hopeless case." He went on to say he didn't think it was going to be so hopeless, but he couldn't make any promises.

They also could never figure out what my due date should be. It started out as June 23rd and kept getting pushed back further and further. I felt the birth would be somewhere around the second week of July (a mother always knows best). On July 9th, when I had my weekly appt the doctor said my baby might not come till August. I nearly kicked her from the exam table.

Sure enough, the night of July 9th I did go into labor. Because Ana was in a difficult breech position and they were unsure of her health, a c-section was planned. They were "allowing" me to go into labor on my own. Those few hours of labor were a glorious experience.

On the morning of July 10th, we headed to the hospital--during a torrential rainstorm (side note: Ana's full name is Anahita--which is the name of a Persian goddess represented by water--very important in a desert climate).A few hours later, when Ana "arrived" via c-section, pink and healthy as could be...well, those first few moments are always "goosebump memories"...she was fine. What they saw on the ultrasound was merely a fold of skin (she had no neck like my dad!). Because she was breech, she was folded in half. They kept reassuring me that there was nothing to worry about...and I didn't care about that...she was breathing, crying, and everything was where it was supposed to be. The months of worry evaporated with her first few healthy breaths.

An hour or so after her birth, I was able to call my mom and tell her the good news...that her granddaughter was born healthy. That phone call is also a goosebump memory. In that phone call, my relationship with my mother was forever changed. In my mother's voice I could hear her relief that Ana was o.k. My connection with my mother deepened with that phone call. I understood her better and I do believe that my mother understood me better. We knew where each other "came from". I think we were both willing to give each other a little more latitude. At the end of the call, my mom said she would be there the next day (she didn't drive and needed to arrange transportation). She made it to the hospital by dinnertime.

Ouch!

2008-07-08T10:35:00.002-05:00

The fuel pump in the car needs to be replaced...to the tune of about $800. Yikes. It's a less than cheery way to spend vacation, but it is what it is.

The best part of the day so far...waking up and heading to the studio to do some painting before it heats up. That's what I really wanted to do this vacation.

A quiet Fourth

2008-07-07T21:46:00.002-05:00

It was sort of a quiet 4th of July holiday around here...which after the last few weeks was o.k. by me. Saw fireworks twice (it's just a few minutes walk from here to catch the Taste of MN fireworks). Hung out at home most of the weekend.

Sunday decided to head to the Twins game--I haven't been to a Twins game since June 18th! I almost didn't make it to the game...when I went down to the car, it wouldn't start! (I had this same problem about 10 days ago...had the car towed to a garage and then it started the next day! We had the car towed today and yes, again, the car started at the garage! Something is definitely not working!) I decided to jump on the express bus to Mpls to get to the game...it was worth it--the Twins won to sweep the Cleveland Indians.

While my co-workers are returning to work tomorrow, I'm taking this week off to rest and relax. No big plans. More hanging at home and hopefully lots of time at the studio. Now that I'm feeling better, I'm back in my beading frenzy...I've made 4 new necklaces in the past few days.

Salmonella watch

2008-07-05T08:50:00.007-05:00

ALERT:

Salmonella cases reported and confirmed in Minnesota are up to 8, with 10 cases in Wisconsin. Keep in mind that not everyone who becomes ill has a stool specimen tested and thus may not be included in the count. The Dakotas are still salmonella-free.

Carry on with your weekend.

Mystery solved

2008-07-01T06:44:00.004-05:00

This map reflects the number of salmonella stpaul cases nationwide. I am one of the "Minnesota 2"

I had a long conversation with the Department of Health last night. It seems my case is a part of the big "Salmonella saintpaul" outbreak that has been on the news nationwide. (The "saintpaul" part is just what they named this particular strain of salmonella, it has nothing to do with location.)

It seems there have been a number of Minnesota cases recently, all coming from a Roseville restaurant that I ate at on June 16th (not Cafe Latte like I thought!). It seems to be coming from tainted tomatoes...or at least some sort of produce we ("the infected" ones) all had in our meals. I knew I should have had that tuna melt like Joel did (he did not get sick)!

So mystery solved. I never want to have that nasty little bug again. And while I will continue eating out, I think this summer I'll be taking a pass on any dishes with raw tomatoes.

And I have...

2008-06-28T09:11:00.004-05:00

Salmonellosis.

The word came back late Thursday afternoon. Salmonellosis is caused from the bacteria called salmonella. That could have came from tainted tomatoes, someone not washing their hands, bad meat...We may never know.

The treatment is antibiotics (which last night didn't seem to be doing the trick yet). I'm hoping another day of treatment and I'll be able to eat a bit more normally.

But it's a relief to know what the heck I've got.

Quick update

2008-06-25T11:45:00.002-05:00

I went to the doctor yesterday...her guess is that I have picked up some sort of parasite or something from some contaminated produce/water...Unfortunately, we won't know until lab results come back...which I'm hoping will be by Friday. They can't treat me until they know what it is exactly. For now, the only thing I can really take is immodium...which is holding the diarrhea at bay (it seems). Still can't really eat and my stomach hurts.

This has been a really long week.

But hey, how about those Twins!

Losing weight the hard way

2008-06-23T20:06:00.004-05:00

I feel slightly better today, but still not good enough to go to work or really eat anything. I tried to get into my doctor's today, but they couldn't squeeze me in till tomorrow.

I'm getting a little bored with laying in bed and watching t.v, but really couldn't muster up the energy to make it over to my studio (3 flights of stairs). Really, without getting too detailed, I still need to be very close to a restroom. Enough said.

But Joel, being a good sport, took me out for a little bit late this afternoon. It was the first time I had left the apartment since Friday afternoon. That wouldn't bother me so much if it was raining or the dead of winter. I'm bummed I totally missed a weekend of wonderful weather.

I decided I might as well grab some good from my recent "diet" and drop in for a quick WW weigh-in. Haven't written much about it here, but I've been plugging right along. And yes, I lost 3.4 lbs in 10 days, for a total of (drum roll, please) 21.4 lbs! I know I may put a little of that back on (temporarily) when I start eating again, but it was still quite a pick-me-up.

Then we simply stopped at Target to pick up some essentials and search for some food I might find appealing. Man, if I could bottle what I've got (minus the misery) as an appetite suppressant, I'd make millions! Nothing looked very good at all. Hopefully this will all be over soon, because it's really no fun to not enjoy your food at all.

Mack truck headed my way

2008-06-22T12:27:00.003-05:00

I am laying low. Feeling like a mack truck hit me. Thursday night Joel and I went for a lovely walk, came home and when I got out of my recliner I could tell something was wrong. I'm not sure what's going on...it's an odd combination of symptoms...body aches that are horrid, alternating between fever/chills, thee worst headache, no appetite to speak of (it seems like food in the cereal category are all I can stomach), and then some, well, let's just say what I do manage to eat, doesn't stay with me long. This is sucking big time.

As promised, pictures!

2008-06-17T22:41:00.002-05:00

Ana's new kitten, "Honeykins", just 10 weeks old.

Peonies.

More peonies.

My kitty, Squeakers, resting on the recliner with me.

The new couch.

And the recliners.

Ana's move

2008-06-17T09:47:00.003-05:00

My daughter's move went quite well...exhausting, but now done. And everyone who helped her told her that she CANNOT move for at least two years. I'm hoping she will love this place. I love this place. It's an upper duplex in south Mpls...where the boulevards are lined with mature trees and gardens are blooming everywhere. Dogs abound in backyards and kids still play in the neighborhood parks. The house...has a 3-season front porch with windows on all 3 sides, a side deck, the original (I'm guessing) tin ceiling (in excellent condition), wood floors throughout, and plenty of space.

This move was largely a family affair. A few friends of Adam and Ana's helped out (mostly Mary, who is like an adopted daughter), but besides that it was myself, Cyrus and for a bit his girlfriend, Katie (since she's just getting to know the family we didn't push her into heavy lifting detail). Since I was the senior member of the moving faction, I paced myself accordingly. And truly, a big part of my job was providing a level head and nourishment. Saturday included typical moving food: sloppy joes.

I hate moving, but truth be told, I enjoy being part of my kid's lives in this way. I am happy that they want me to be there to see their new place. I still get a certain sense of satisfaction in cooking for them (it's especially enjoyable cooking for loved ones who request their favorites and make you feel loved for doing it).

(For those of you who have been complaining, I will have pictures to post shortly. Patience, it will happen soon)

Peonies in bloom

2008-06-14T09:02:00.002-05:00

Beautiful Saturday. The Farmer's Market is in full swing below us. I got up early this morning to buy a bouquet of peonies. Finally, they were there--several weeks later than last year.

I'm off soon to help my daughter move. Not exactly what I want to be doing on a gorgeous Saturday, but I'd rather be moving her in this weather than in rain.

And, I'll get my cardio in to boot.

Furniture Update

2008-06-10T22:58:00.002-05:00

The new furniture arrived early this afternoon and we couldn't be happier. It wasn't too hard to figure out an arrangement that seems to work. We spent a good chunk of the evening relaxing in our his-n-hers recliners while watching t.v. and playing scrabble. The couch is beautiful...the color seems darker in the light of our apartment and works well with our other furnishings.

Ah, domestic bliss!

First Anniversary pics

2008-06-05T18:49:00.005-05:00

Here we are enjoying the Twins game on our anniversary.

A view of our room at the Golden Lantern Inn

The lovely roses waiting in our room.

Here I am sitting in the "Risa chair" at Slumberland. Really, the chair is titled the "Risa chair". I had to take a picture of me sitting in the chair.

The recliner on the right is the one we're getting. Yes, we did get 2 for the price of 1--plus the sales ad printed the price $100 cheaper than it was supposed to be!

Ana sitting on the plum couch--this is the full-sized couch, which we would've loved getting, but there's no way it would get in our apartment!

This is the loveseat-size that we got (only in plum).

The anniversary celebration

2008-06-04T19:46:00.004-05:00

Well, Year Two of the Marriage began today...but first, we had a wonderful celebration spread out over the last few days. (Pictures will follow soon)

Sunday we enjoyed a lovely (and delicious) brunch at Loring Pasta Bar in Dinkytown (The restaurant is located in what was the Campus Drugstore when I was a U college student. The transformation is unbelieveable). The food was incredible, the people-watching interesting and the interiors of the restaurant are so intriguing you can spend the whole meal looking around. For $15.95 it's a steal.

Unfortunately, Joel came home and wasn't feeling well (not related to the food), so we laid low the remainder of the day.

I took Monday and Tuesday off, so after some discussion, we decided to head off for Red Wing Monday afternoon. Moondance Inn, the bed and breakfast we stayed at for our honeymoon (that I absolutely love) was closed, but we found a beautiful room at the Golden Lantern Inn. The home (7000 square feet) was built in 1932 by the owner of Red Wing shoes. Our room was the original master suite. Joel surprised me with a dozen roses waiting in our room. We slept in a spacious king bed (I could get used to that) and thoroughly enjoyed the two-person whirlpool tub. The weather was quite cool (it's June, right?), so we didn't really enjoy the beautiful gardens at the inn much...but maybe another time.

There's something so restorative about leaving town and spending an evening at a b & b. Sometimes you don't have to travel far to feel like you're on a mini-vacation. I definitely prefer a b & b over a big hotel. This trip made our anniversary special (Thank you honey).

Before leaving Red Wing on Tuesday, we stopped at our favorite antique shop on Main Street and then at the Red Wing Pottery store. At the pottery store, they have good deals on Fiestaware...and we added to our collection--a beautiful plum vase and a light turquoise pitcher.

We headed home, with the plan to stop at the Hom furniture store on the way. Over the past week, we had made a few stops to look at furniture and had decided on a new couch. So...we became the proud owners of the couch pictured in the earlier post (along with 2 recliners). I am deliriously happy about the couch for a number of reasons: 1) it's purple; plum if you prefer. It's a beautiful color. 2) I have never owned a new couch, so it's exciting to make such a purchase and get to pick what I liked; 3) Most importantly, it's the first new furniture that Joel and I have picked out together. It was fun shopping together (we like the same stuff)...and it will be even more fun to get the furniture home and lay out a new furniture arrangement. It is also another step in making this apartment feel more like our home. This is part of building our life together.

We finally arrived home, had a little bit of time to unwind before we headed to the Twins game. The night didn't end with a Twins' win, but we had a great time nonetheless.

And now we're all set to start Year Two. Here we go!

A new couch!

2008-06-04T09:50:00.003-05:00

I will write more later about our wonderful anniversary...but just had to post a picture of the beautiful couch we just bought for our living room (along with two recliners). Joel and I are doing our part to stimulate the economy.

The couch is really sort of a plum color and as my daughter said, the color "fits you". My husband does like the color and we have purple as an accent color already. With all the wood in our apartment (exposed beams, wood-beam ceilings) and the recliners being a brown-tweed color, I think the plum will work and make things POP!

I like color!

The 1-year anniversary looms ahead...

2008-05-29T21:13:00.003-05:00

Joel and I will be celebrating our 1-year anniversary in just 5 days. I actually plan to start the celebration on Sunday (we got married on a Sunday). We've tossed around some ideas about how to celebrate. We thought about going out of town for a few days, to Red Wing, and staying at the bed and breakfast we went to last year. Next week is the one week all summer they're closed. Then I decided we'd start the celebration off on Sunday with brunch at Forepaugh's where we held our ceremony and reception. They're closed for renovations.

All right, all right, I will not be dismayed. Thus far, we are now planning Sunday brunch at Loring Pasta Bar (where we dined the evening of our wedding). And on Tuesday, we will be attending a Twins game. That seems right, since the Twins and baseball have been pivotal in our life as a couple.

I suppose at some point I'll be reflective about reaching this 1-year mark. In short, I don't think married life has been hard. In fact, I think it's been very, very good. I enjoy being married. That doesn't mean it's always easy, but it's the life I have wanted for a very long time.

I just had to find the right man for the job. That was the hard part.

This part is like the icing on the cake.

Pictures at last!

2008-05-25T20:02:00.002-05:00

Joel, myself, Ana, and my mom at Ana's award ceremony. Way to go Ana!

Again, me and Ana following the ceremony. She really didn't want her picture taken that day. Could she have guessed the pics would wind up here?

Stacy paid me a visit during the Art Crawl.

Just outside my studio. To see more pics from the Art crawl, check out my art blog here.

The happy graduate, Hannah, with her mom, Julie.

Me and Julie at Southside's open house.

Mel with Jack (Brad's dog)

Brad's beautiful baby, Hazel, born 4-18-08.

I'm taking a little time this long weekend to catch up on the work of uploading photos and as promised, posting some here. I've selected a few photos from recent events--the Art crawl, Ana's award ceremony at work, Julie's visit and pics from a visit to meet my boss's new baby Hazel. Now I have to get working on getting the pics on Kodak gallery!

A brief update

2008-05-12T21:38:00.003-05:00

I know...I have been negligent in posting and I'm not promising much tonight. My best friend, Julie, is arriving from out of town in a few days and I doubt I will get much written (if anything) during her visit. But here's what's been happening in a nutshell:

Ana was selected to receive a BIG award at her work earlier this month. She is a sales associate at MOA's Bloomingdales and received their "Golden B" award. Only 4 staff are selected twice a year. The fun part was that her supervisor called me so I could surprise her by being at the award ceremony. Ana did not know she was receiving the award, but the little stinker spotted our car in the parking lot--and so had an inkling she had been selected. We still managed to surprise her a little by having her grandmother there. It was a "proud mother" moment. (Pictures to follow)
Cyrus is recovering from strep throat. Fortunately, he did not pass it along to family or (even more surprisinly) to his girlfriend.
I celebrated Mother's Day by going out to brunch with Cy and then to the Twins' game with Ana. The Twins won! (If you haven't been paying attention, the Twins are in first place in the Central Division...read more at my baseball blog)
Joel and I are just 3 weeks away from our 1-year anniversary. Wasn't it just a year ago that I started writing here? Wow, it's been quite a year. I guess it will be time for some reflection in the coming weeks.

St Paul Art crawl a success!

2008-04-28T21:33:00.003-05:00

Despite the uncooperative weather, I had a great weekend having my studio open for the art crawl. I know "the numbers" were down compared to some other years, but I thought traffic flow was respectable. Some of the weekend highlights:

My friends and family who came by the studio. Thank you for coming!
Both my kids insisting that I not sell the paintings I created when they were young. I guess they will be their inheritance one day. (No worries--no paintings sold, but I wasn't expecting that)
One woman who told me she came to my building because she liked the image of my work that was printed in the catalogue. Also the thank you from the woman who appreciated my artist statement. It's nice when you put yourself out there and people notice (favorably).
All of the wonderful conversations I had with different folks. It was encouraging and energizing.
The thrill of selling the cards I made (featuring prints of my artwork) and my candle holders. It was nice that they were so well received.
And last, but not least, the incredible support of my husband--who helped me set up and sat with me all those hours at the crawl. Thank you.

I'm glad I did the crawl and I look forward to participating in the fall crawl--the second weekend in October. Hope to see you there!

Art Crawl prep

2008-04-22T21:08:00.005-05:00

My working space at the studio

One of my favorite new works

Very busy week here. I am preparing to open my art studio for the St. Paul Art Crawl this coming weekend. (For more details about the crawl, check this out.) Sunday and Monday I painted the walls of the entryway to the studio. I definitely prefer painting canvases over walls. Painting walls is so much harder on your body and definitely not as good for this soul. Still it was nice to finish that project. Since Joel & I live in an apartment, our daily living space is all white or off-white walls. I hate that. Painting the studio was my opportunity to put some vivid color up on the walls. And since it was the studio, I picked more intense, get-my-creative juices-flowing colors...shades of bluish-purple and fuchsia. I love spending time in my artist-cave (my version of the "man-cave").

Now that the walls are all painted, I can focus on getting the artwork up on the walls and making everything neat and tidy.

You're welcome to stop by and take a look. I'll be taking pics to share later, but I would love to see family and friends walk through the door.

See you then!

Spring

2008-04-13T20:16:00.004-05:00

For those who are tired of the cold, winter-like weather in APRIL,

For those who are weary from toiling over last minute tax returns,

For those who dread another Monday, I offer these images.

Peace.

Opening Day pics

2008-04-03T21:43:00.002-05:00

Just thought I'd share a few pics from the opening day of the Twins season. The weather was nasty, but the game was delightful. Unfortunately, the 3 since haven't been so lovely. Yup, we won that first one, but lost the next season. No reason to get to worked up about it at this point--there are 158 more games to go!

We went to today's afternoon game and the weather was splendid. Even this loss wasn't so bad...it was a fun game to watch!

Tomorrow I'll be up close and personal with the Twins at their Welcome Home luncheon. Let's see how brave I am about taking pics! I told Joel to be on his best behavior or I'm sitting at a different table!

10 pounds

2008-04-02T22:02:00.003-05:00

A brief break from the baseball season to share that I have lost another pound for a total loss of 10 lbs (10.6 to be exact, but who's counting ounces? ME!) The weight is coming off slowly, but at least it is coming off. I don't feel yet that I can see/feel the loss, but I know that will come with time. I have been very, very good...not even indulging in a hot dog at the season's first game (they really aren't that great of hot dogs). Now with the warmer weather on its way (I hope) I will be able to get outside to do more walking.

I'm off to another baseball game tomorrow afternoon. I am very thankful for baseball under the dome this week. Friday Joel and I are attending the Twins Welcome Home luncheon in St. Paul. Check out my baseball blog for all the details.

Small town childhood memories

2008-03-31T10:19:00.005-05:00

This weekend I went to visit my mom and we spent the afternoon watching the MN State Boys Basketball tournament. In particular, we watched my old hometown--Ellsworth--win their second consecutive state title. That's Ellsworth, MN not Ellsworth, Wisconsin. Not only did the Panthers win the title, their star player, Cody Schilling, became the new state record holder in scoring in boys basketball. I went to grade school with his dad.

Not bad for a town with graduating classes no larger than 30 kids. (To read a nice feature story about Schilling's and mine small home town click here.)

Random information, perhaps. But thinking about Ellsworth conjures up many pleasant memories of my childhood. It's a tiny, tiny town located in extreme SW Minnesota. It really is a Minnesota version of Mayberry. My family moved to the town several years before I was born. The year I was born, 1960, my parents moved the family into a rambler that they had built. Hardwood floors. Huge basement. Even bigger backyard and an empty lot between us and the next house.

My family moved to Ellsworth because my father was the representative for the local power company (Interstate Power). That gained us some notoriety in town, because we were the house everyone called when the power went out. My mom took a lot of stupid calls while my dad was out working in the storm (like how do I heat up my baby's bottle...you still have hot water, duh).

It was an idyllic childhood. Everyone knew everyone...in a way that seemed good in my childhood. It was safe to ride my bike anywhere...and for fun on a Friday night, I would ride my bike a mile out of town, cross the state line...just for the thrill of answering the question "where'd you go?" with a simple "Iowa" when I got home. My mom would frequently send me "uptown" to pick up a few things needed for a meal...the grocery store owner knew me, of course (he was a neighbor), and whatever I bought was simply put on credit. Oh, and you always got to pick out a few things from the HUGE penny-candy box.

We left Ellsworth in early 1973 when my dad's health forced him to retire at the ripe old age of 45. We moved to another small town, Eden Valley, to be closer to family. But the ties to Ellsworth remained. My three older siblings graduated from Ellsworth and two of them married high school sweethearts.

A few years ago, Joel and I passed through Ellsworth on a road trip. We went by my old house, which now of course, looks so much smaller.

I love the city, but sometimes I miss that small-town atmosphere. It was a good childhood, riding my bike through the streets of Mayberry...I mean, Ellsworth.

Take me out to the ballpark

2008-03-29T09:12:00.003-05:00

The sun is shining. Yes!

I am very excited, because today I start my spring break vacation. Our agency closes for spring break and so everyone there is off this coming week! (that decision to return to work there is looking good right now!)

So what am I going to do?

In a word: Baseball.

The Twins opener is Monday night and Joel and I will be there! And we'll be there on Tuesday night and Thursday afternoon as well. We're ready to go with our new Twins jerseys and our new Twins seat cushions. I expect that all the tension in my body will evaporate once my body steps into the stadium.

I am still a tad upset that my man Santana won't be on the mound Opening Day (or ever), but of course, I'll give the new guys a chance. And hey, as an added bonus, Torii Hunter's new team (Angels) is the team we're facing, so we'll get to see the man cover centerfield as always. I hope his bat is cold, but I'll cheer for him anyways.

Other than that, I'll be relaxing and spending time at the art studio.

And just a warning: if you don't see me posting here, you may catch me blogging at my baseball blog (see side link). I've been neglecting that blog during the offseason, but no longer!

So have a good week everyone and let's hope the sun continues to shine!

2.2

2008-03-19T14:41:00.004-05:00

Well, I weighed in this morning and lost 2.2 pounds. Two pounds is a great loss and it was hard to get that this week. I actually don't know if I would have lost that if I had gone in on Monday evening as planned. But I wasn't feeling well Monday, so I bought myself a little extra time. Morning weigh-ins are a bit easier as well...there's less fluctuation in weight than you have later in the day. But I'm not going to try to diminish this weight loss. I'm still down 2 and that's a very good thing!

It's March 18th and that means...

2008-03-18T02:30:00.001-05:00

Happy, Happy Birthday Stacy!

(that's Stacy on the right and Mel on the left).

Wish Stacy a Happy birthday here.

A Sea of Green

2008-03-17T10:19:00.004-05:00

Top O' the Morning to you all...and Happy St. Patrick's Day! Saturday we were able to view part of St. Paul's St. Patrick's Day parade that lines up in front of our place. Believe me, I think a good time was had by all!

7 pounds

2008-03-10T19:29:00.003-05:00

That's what I lost in Week One. 7 pounds. Yippee!!

It's a great start. I stuck to my plan througout the week. Losing the 7 pounds makes bypassing all the extra treats so worth it. But this was the easy week. I always lose weight the first week, but I have to stay on my game if I want to keep losing. And I plan to do so.

Random James Taylor blog

2008-03-10T10:03:00.010-05:00

Driving into work today I heard a newly recorded version of James Taylor's Fire and Rain (sorry I didn't catch the artist). It's not all that different than James' recording, in fact, in my humble opinion, not as good...so I wonder why they just don't re-release the old version...but I guess that's not how it works in the music biz. On the positive side, I guess there's a bunch of young folks that will hear the song (great lyrics...for those who don't know the song was written by James when he learned that one of his friends had died...either a suicide or accidental OD. JT was in London at the time recording at Apple studios--alongside the Beatles)

So anyways, listening to the song stirred some random thoughts (like those above) that I thought I'd share....

James Taylor in promo shot for Fire and Rain, 1970

I realize that Fire and Rain was recorded over 35 years ago. Last night Joel & I watched part of a JT concert on public television (that my daughter alerted me to). As JT sung You've Got a Friend Joel commented that he doubted JT imagined he'd be singing those songs for so many years. Nope, probably not, since in the early years he was a heroin addict.

I also realize that most adults my kids ages (early twenties) don't really know James Taylor or his songs. Yikes, I'm getting old! (for the record I was tuned into JT at an early age by my oldest bro. Thanks Phil!). But my kids know JT! Ana will call me if there is something JT related on tv. Cy's middle name is Taylor (yup, for that reason). Music can be one of those fun things you share with your kids.

Another random JT note: Last night Ana asked me how many times I have seen JT in concert. Three. Should have been four, but there was that night in 1987 when her dad didn't come home to watch her and her bro so I could go to a JT concert. That's the night I stopped being his doormat! So you see, lots of James Taylor woven into the fabric of my life.

O.K. one more random JT note: James Taylor turns 60 on Wednesday, March 12. Happy Birthday, James! (Yikes, JT is an AARP member!)

Weekend

2008-03-09T20:04:00.002-05:00

It's been a nice, sort of relaxing weekend. I'm almost afraid to say it, but finally, I think my mouth may be on the mend. It was still quite bothersome last week, so I went back to the dentist for another check. He thought the infection was under control, but I was healing slowly.

Friday I was exhausted. It had been a hard week at work and my mouth was still bothering me. Date Night was pretty much a dud, but sometimes that's just the way things work out. I was so tired that I didn't even go out with Joel to run errands. I hit the hay early.

Since I was such a bore on Friday, Joel and I headed to the Mpls Institute of Arts on Saturday. The MIA is one of my favorite places to visit, especially when I need some inspiration or comfort. Saturday I was seeking both.

I spent a little time at my studio when we returned. Later in the evening my daughter, Ana, and her boyfriend, Adam, came for dinner. Today I spent some time at the studio and then went to do a little shopping (for "diet" food). I came home and made quiche. Now I'm caught up in a CSI (Las Vegas) marathon.

Boring, but relaxing.

I like that.

Mondays

2008-03-03T18:57:00.002-06:00

It's been a long day. I'm never really fond of Mondays and I start the work week by being on "coverage" Monday morning. That basically means I need to be at work to cover any emergencies or in some cases, just be an extra set of hands/eyes, whatever...usually there aren't any issues, but I need to be there just in case. It's not a big deal, but it's not my favorite way to start the week either.

My goal this week, first and foremost, is to feel better physically. I was still feeling pretty cruddy this weekend and it seems like the antibiotics are slow in working. Today was the first day I did not need to take pain relievers at the beginning of the day...thank god, the pain relievers have been playing havoc with my gut (plus the constant achy pain in my mouth was making me crabby).

It was an intense and emotionally challenging day at work. Because of confidentiality, I can't really write about the specifics...but one of our families is going through more tragedy than any family should have to bear. It makes no sense...and I'm at a loss in regards as to how to understand it. I guess some life events never really make sense. I do know that it's important to savor every day we've got on this earth...and even the mundane stuff is worth treasuring.

But on another front...

Today I was determined to follow through on pursuing another goal. It's been hard to keep the weight off this winter...actually this past year. I can really tell that my metabolism is slowing down as I get older (I guess that makes sense...everything is slowing down). I've tried to "diet" on my own, but it's not been working. Even being sick these last few weeks I haven't taken any weight off. So today I did what I knew I needed to do, what has worked in the past...I joined Weight Watchers.

5 years ago I joined Weight Watchers and lost around 30 pounds. I kept that weight off for over 3 years, but the last 1-2 years that's been harder. Yes, I want to lose the weight so I look good. Like everyone else trying to lose weight, I have those skinny jeans I want to fit in. But I also want to lose the weight to improve my health. I'm a Type II diabetic, have arthritis and other aches and pains...and the extra weight doesn't help. It's time to take some action.

It's not rocket science...I need to eat less. Especially less chocolate and other treats. Weight Watchers teaches you all the basics, but what I really get from the plan is the pat on the back when I do well and the gentle kick in the pants when I could be doing better.

So I went to my "first" meeting tonight. I don't like the weight I'm starting at (no, I'm not going to reveal what I weigh), but I'm not planning to stay there for long.

The throbbing continues...

2008-02-28T16:09:00.002-06:00

I headed back to the dentist today...I have not been healing from the tooth extractions and I'm tired of feeling miserable. I knew I had to either go back to the dentist or see a doctor and thought it better to start with the dentist. He thought it looked o.k., but there is definite pain in my sinuses, so he decided with my diabetes that it was worthwhile to try some antibiotics. YES. I'm hoping this will take care of the pain in my head.

a throbbing pain in my head

2008-02-25T19:51:00.003-06:00

Man. I went to work today and only made it half a day. My tooth was throbbing and I felt like I needed a nap. It's throbbing again tonight. If I'm feeling like this tomorrow, I'll be giving the dentist a call. I'm a little worried that I have an infection started there. The dentist put in one HUGE stitch and I managed to get that out tonight...it was driving me crazy!

And I am still diet coke free!

48 hours and...

2008-02-23T11:43:00.002-06:00

NO DIET COKE. I had 2 teeth pulled on Thursday morning and the recovery has been a little slow--hence, no diet coke. I still don't even want it. My stomach has been bothering me, my heartburn has been over the top of late... so I'm thinking this would be a good time to cut back on the caffeine. I'm going to try to be strong this weekend and not drink any diet coke. It will actually be much harder when I'm feeling better.

One day at a time...

"Vacation"

2008-02-19T16:15:00.011-06:00

I am "on vacation". It's not so much a vacation as a break from my regular "9 to 5" job. Originally Joel & I planned a short 2 day trip to Chicago, but we decided to shelve that plan till there's warmer weather (and baseballs flying). Now we're staying put at home and I'm scheduled to get a couple of teeth pulled (again) on Thursday. My son has been sick with a wicked cold, so I've been playing nurse as well. (Sounds like a vacation to me)

Still I'm looking for a little fun. I really wanted to spend lots of time at my art studio this week painting. I've been doing some of that, but feel like I need to venture out for some creative inspiration. I think I know what is ailing me.

I'M SICK OF WINTER AND COLD WEATHER!!!

It feels too cold to be out traipsing around, but I'm tired of sitting home because of cold weather. I'm tired of white and gray. I'm tired of temps that never get above freezing.

So in the next few days, I'm going to be thinking warm thoughts, imaging bright, vivid colors. These pics from this past summer might help.

O.k. Mel here it is (for what it's worth)--

2008-02-10T12:17:00.005-06:00

O.k. Mel "tagged" me and since I have a hard time not doing something asked of me (most of the time anyways), here it is--although a few things I just couldn't think long and hard about. I'll "tag" a few people myself, but don't sweat it. I'd love to hear your answers.

8 Things I'm Passionate About:

My relationships--with my husband, kids, family & friends
Painting, making art/crafts...creativity
Baseball, especially the Twins
Compassion towards others--especially those who could use a hand
Baking, cooking
the right to Vote
Seeing Bush and fellow Republicans out of office ASAP
Diet Coke and dark chocolate

8 Things I want to do before I die:

Celebrate my 25th wedding anniversary with Joel...and on the way, have lots of good times with my hubbie
See my kids get married (when they're ready)
Have good times with my grandchildren (not yet here--no rush!)
Travel to Europe (especially France) and Morocco
Paint, paint, paint...have a great art show and sell some of my work (or receive a commission)
Go to Twins spring training
Own a house
Have a dog again

8 Things I Say Often:

You tell me--

8 TV Shows I've Recently Watched: (definitely impacted by the writer's strike and the lack of baseball)

Animal Precinct
House Hunters
What Not to Wear
The local news
Project Runway
The Biggest Loser
Westminster Dog Show
Jon & Kate plus 8

8 Songs I Could Listen To Over and Over:

Sorry, I might never get this posted if I try to come up with 8 songs. Maybe another day. But, I'll offer this--8 singers/groups I enjoy:

James Taylor
Van Morrison
the Bee Gees (a guilty pleasure)
Andrea Bocelli
the Beatles
David Sanborn
Carole King
Barry White

8 Things That Attract Me To My Friends:

Sense of humor; an ability to be "wacky"
A creative spirit
A forgiving nature--compassion
Honesty (and the ability to accept my honesty)
Patience
the willingness to help others
Common interests
a certain amount of "feistiness" to match my own

8 Things I've Learned (or been reminded of) This Past Year:

That it's worth looking like a fool for love at any age
Marriage is not always easy, but it's worth it (it hasn't been that hard, honey)
Even when your children are grown, they are a part of your marriage
That regardless of your children's ages, you are always mom. And that's o.k.
That the work you do has a value beyond a paycheck
Unfortunately, that value does not help pay the bills
There has to be more to life beyond work
The older I get, the more I need my sleep

8 People I Think Should Do "8" :

Well, not exactly 8. This is not a "should" in the sense that I "expect" you to do it--

Mindy
Julie
Joel
Stacy (I know you may have been "tagged", but I haven't seen it)
Any other readers of my blog!

Happy Birthday Cyrus!

2008-02-06T08:34:00.000-06:00

My "baby" is turning 21 today!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CYRUS!!!

(Everyone say a little prayer that he plays "safe" the next few days!)

And now for a moment from our sponsor...

2008-02-03T23:02:00.000-06:00

Pretty sweet...check out the new Twins commercial. See Cuddy, Mauer, and Morneau having fun at the new Twins ballpark site. Catch the funny ending with Tom Kelly (note the t-shirt of the other guy--Brian, you should really love this!)

Where have I been, you ask?

2008-01-29T09:31:00.000-06:00

O.K. I'm just going to start by saying that I'm in a period of mourning.

While I uploaded these pics this morning, I am actually writing this blog at 10 pm Tuesday and if you don't know yet, my beloved Santana was traded to the Mets today.

I'm not very happy about that.

I got razzed a little earlier about not posting much lately.

Well, if you read my baseball blog you would know that I had posted 4 entries in 4 days (now 5 in 5).

But if you don't take a gander at my baseball blog here's an update on what I've been doing:

TWINS FEST!!!

Twins Fest was held at the Metrodome this past weekend. Two years ago, Joel tried to lure me to Twins Fest, but for reasons unclear now I put him off. Last year we attended together for the first time. We had a blast. This year we decided to go twice--Friday and Sunday (it's really a win-win situation: you buy an $8 ticket and get a voucher for a $21 upper club seat).

Friday night I watched a radio interview with Mauer and Morneau. Morneau seemed in good spirits after signing that $80 million deal.

Joel spent lots of time getting autographs from player, new and old. Here he is with Dan Gladden. Usually I would just show up when he made to the station to take a few shots of Joel with the player. You can catch Joel's story of our Twins Fest visits at his Twinscards site.

An overview of the dome. Lots of people. Lots to do.

Here I am with former Twin Al Newman. He was very charming and could have shared baseball memories all afternoon.

It's a fun place to take the kids. Here are two future twins.

Oh ya, I also had my pic taken with Pat Neshek at the photo station. Joel & I've talked to him before (Joel requested his first autograph ever when he was in the minors...and he now actually recognizes my husband). He's a great guy, from Minnesota no less.

So my baseball juices are now running. Pitchers and catchers report to camp on February 11th (although without Santana that's far less exciting). But if you don't see me posting here, you might want to check out my baseball blog--that's probably where you'll find me.

In the Deep Freeze

2008-01-19T10:32:00.000-06:00

It's colder than...well, it's frickin' cold. Minus 14 degrees when I got up at 8 this morning. And it ain't supposed to warm up much. This will be a 3-day weekend in the deep freeze.

We're going out to get some groceries, but other than that we'll be staying in. Joel has enough movies for us to watch till next January.

To warm up the kitchen, I made peanut butter cookies (with dark chocolate m&m's). They've got peanut butter in them--breakfast, right? I'm thinking of roasting a turkey in my new turkey roaster bought on clearance at Target for $7.50 (originally $60!).

And thankfully, our studio is always warm so I can probably brave the block-long walk to the studio to do some painting.

Maybe it will be 3 days of bliss.