Sorry about that but I have an excuse - really. I bought a jigsaw puzzle. Yes, I have been derailed from life by A PUZZLE. How's that, you ask?
Well, not only have I been neglecting my online life, I've been neglecting my real life as well. Case in point? Today alone, I estimate that I've spent at least 6-7 hours working on the damn thing. I finally had to quit because I'd given myself a headache from staring at it.
I should have known better. I know how I am - I can easily get derailed by a challenge. And this particular puzzle is a challenge.
At any rate, I'm about halfway done and have almost decided that this will be the puzzle that never gets finished. There is too much sky and too many greens. But, I know myself, and I will do whatever it takes to finish that damn thing. I'm just hoping that will be sooner rather than later. Because between you and me? The laundry needs doing, errands need to be run, the house needs to be cleaned...you know, the list goes on....besides, I only have four more days of vacation that I'd like to spend doing something besides a puzzle.
December 29, 2016
December 14, 2016
That first real step into being an adult is on the doorstep...
Well, would you look at that? SIX posts for the month of December so far...looks like I'm on a roll - let's see if we can keep the momentum up.
I have NEWS!
Man-Child had his first real, grown up interview last week (I think - this time of year really screws up my sense of time). He said that it went very well and that they seemed shocked when he told them that it was his first interview. The position he applied for was a high school Physical Education Teacher/Coach. Basically, exactly what he wants to do.
Two days (I guess) after that, he finished up his student teaching with the elementary school kids. During that last week, he brought home stacks upon stacks of notes from all the kids. They told him how much they would miss him, some reminisced on their favorite moments with him, some wished him good luck and "congratuions".
It was all very touching and sweet. I asked him if this was making him re-think his desire to teach mean, old high schoolers. He replied, "A little."
In fact, The Husband's boss has children that go to that school and they told their dad that Mr. X had left and they were sad because Mr. X spent so much time with each kid and that Ms. M (their regular teacher) wasn't as nice (which I'm sure is not true because Man-Child loved working with her).
Fun fact - the elementary school that Man-Child was student teaching in is approximately two minutes from the house and we live in a very small community. Being seen around town on the weekends by the elementary set with a "teacher" is entertaining. It's like he is a rock star. Some of them giggle and point. Others are shy; peeking out around their parents legs. And then there are those bold enough to run up and say hi and then remind him (so he tells me) in front of their friends at school that they saw him at such and such; in case he forgot.
Anyway...Fast forward to this week. He got a call from the school he applied to - they wanted his references and needed his signature for a background check. A teacher from the elementary school informed him that they only run background checks if they are serious. The thought that this might really be a possibility amped him up - but he kept trying to temper it because, as we all know, the odds of getting a job - your dream job - on the first interview, at that; are slim to none.
This morning, bright and early, he received THE phone call. He has the job!
When he called to tell me I could hear the utter shock and amazement in his voice. He couldn't believe it.
Honestly, I could. I've seen how hard this kid has worked. I've seen the reports from some of his professors. I've seen this kid in action around adults since he was tiny - that kid has known how to carry on an adult conversation practically since he learned to talk. I've seen him interact with children young and older, and seen the patience and kindness that he has. I know that this kid knows his stuff - he has made it a point to because he had a dream.
One that he has now achieved - all due to his hard work and dedication.
He starts in January. Unfortunately, as he is one online credit shy of his diploma (which, let me tell you, came as a nasty surprise to us as we assumed he was done), they can't hire him on as a full time teacher just yet - but they are going to hire him as a long-term substitute until he gets the degree, which should happen in the spring (if it doesn't, then I'll have to kill him). Then they told him they would bring him on full time with benefits.
This school is out of our county, which means he'll have a bit of a drive, and is a smaller school but I think it will be the perfect place for him to start out. And I am so over the moon excited for him and so very proud.
This is it guys - he's taking his first, real step into adulthood. *sniff* That completely empty nest is suddenly looming. Somebody hold me.
I have NEWS!
Man-Child had his first real, grown up interview last week (I think - this time of year really screws up my sense of time). He said that it went very well and that they seemed shocked when he told them that it was his first interview. The position he applied for was a high school Physical Education Teacher/Coach. Basically, exactly what he wants to do.
Two days (I guess) after that, he finished up his student teaching with the elementary school kids. During that last week, he brought home stacks upon stacks of notes from all the kids. They told him how much they would miss him, some reminisced on their favorite moments with him, some wished him good luck and "congratuions".
It was all very touching and sweet. I asked him if this was making him re-think his desire to teach mean, old high schoolers. He replied, "A little."
In fact, The Husband's boss has children that go to that school and they told their dad that Mr. X had left and they were sad because Mr. X spent so much time with each kid and that Ms. M (their regular teacher) wasn't as nice (which I'm sure is not true because Man-Child loved working with her).
Fun fact - the elementary school that Man-Child was student teaching in is approximately two minutes from the house and we live in a very small community. Being seen around town on the weekends by the elementary set with a "teacher" is entertaining. It's like he is a rock star. Some of them giggle and point. Others are shy; peeking out around their parents legs. And then there are those bold enough to run up and say hi and then remind him (so he tells me) in front of their friends at school that they saw him at such and such; in case he forgot.
Anyway...Fast forward to this week. He got a call from the school he applied to - they wanted his references and needed his signature for a background check. A teacher from the elementary school informed him that they only run background checks if they are serious. The thought that this might really be a possibility amped him up - but he kept trying to temper it because, as we all know, the odds of getting a job - your dream job - on the first interview, at that; are slim to none.
This morning, bright and early, he received THE phone call. He has the job!
When he called to tell me I could hear the utter shock and amazement in his voice. He couldn't believe it.
Honestly, I could. I've seen how hard this kid has worked. I've seen the reports from some of his professors. I've seen this kid in action around adults since he was tiny - that kid has known how to carry on an adult conversation practically since he learned to talk. I've seen him interact with children young and older, and seen the patience and kindness that he has. I know that this kid knows his stuff - he has made it a point to because he had a dream.
One that he has now achieved - all due to his hard work and dedication.
He starts in January. Unfortunately, as he is one online credit shy of his diploma (which, let me tell you, came as a nasty surprise to us as we assumed he was done), they can't hire him on as a full time teacher just yet - but they are going to hire him as a long-term substitute until he gets the degree, which should happen in the spring (if it doesn't, then I'll have to kill him). Then they told him they would bring him on full time with benefits.
This school is out of our county, which means he'll have a bit of a drive, and is a smaller school but I think it will be the perfect place for him to start out. And I am so over the moon excited for him and so very proud.
This is it guys - he's taking his first, real step into adulthood. *sniff* That completely empty nest is suddenly looming. Somebody hold me.
December 11, 2016
If he'd read the directions first - it would have never happened
Do you know what this is?
No, contrary to what you may think, it is NOT an ordinary bathroom vent. It is actually a symbol of my husband's undying love for me.
I know what you are thinking - "Well,what do you know - she's finally lost her marbles. I knew it was only a matter of time."
I'll have you know that all my marbles are still intact, thank you very much.
It all started a few days ago when the temperatures here dropped drastically. For some reason, the master bedroom/bathroom - but particularly the bathroom - are at least ten degrees colder/hotter than the rest of the house; depending on the season.
So when the temperatures plummeted, I asked The Husband how difficult would it be to install a vent/heater combo in the bathroom. We had one at the last house, which is the only reason I knew this was an actual thing and not a daydream. He responded that he didn't think it would be a difficult thing to do. Which then prompted me to ask him to install one as I was getting tired of the unbecoming blue shade that I acquired after spending the time in there getting ready for work in the mornings. He never really responded.
This morning he informed me he was headed out for a walk. I thought it was his way of getting out of the house as I wrestled with the cookie press; after all these years he knows when it's time to make himself scarce. The next thing I knew he was walking in the door a couple hours later with a big box containing the vent/heater combo. Apparently, he'd hit Lowe's Home Improvement after his walk.
He then proceeded to unbox the item and went and looked at the old vent. About this time, I decided it would be prudent for me to take all the goodies to the office in order not to have to worry about getting them there in the morning. You see, after all these years, I've also learned when it's time to make myself scarce.
When I came home about an hour or two later, I walked into the bathroom to discover a pile of insulation on the floor, a gaping hole in the ceiling and The Husband beyond aggravated. He informed me that we needed a bigger breaker for this contraption - something he doesn't feel comfortable doing himself - but figured he'd attempt it after getting the vent/heater in - yes, at this point it still was sitting on the floor.
I suggested that he take a break and that we grab a bite of lunch. He agreed.
After lunch he headed back to the bathroom and I headed toward my closet/room/studio/whatever to finish wrapping a couple of gifts. This is when we learned that no matter how loud my husband can be - and believe me, he CAN be loud - when we are on opposite ends of the house I can't hear him. As I was finishing up the last gift I heard a faint noise and thought I'd better go check on him.
When I arrived he said, "About time! I've been calling you for at least ten minutes!!" as he was standing on the ladder holding the new contraption trying to keep it from falling.
Ooops. Lesson learned, when The Husband is involved in a project, it's best to stay within earshot.
Another lesson learned - when The Husband is involved in a project that's in the ceiling - it would be prudent to have a taller person than me on hand. I ended up standing on the toilet, on my tiptoes, trying to hold the contraption while he finished connecting whatever it was that he needed two hands to connect. Eventually, he was able to connect it and shove it up into the hole in the ceiling.
At this point, I figured I'd best stay in the area. He finally succeeded in getting everything situated just right and was able to finish the project - minus replacing the breaker. At this point, he'd spent approximately four hours on this project and was done.
I helped clean up the mess and told him how much I appreciated this "easy" project. And he informed me that had he read the directions before he started (he didn't, he never does. His preferred method of madness is to jump right in and only when he gets stumped does he stop to look at the directions) this project would have never been done.
Apparently, one of the first things the instructions said was "you will need access to the attic above the space" - which we do not have; if we had, this project probably would have been as easy as he thought.
And that, my friends, is why that humble vent is a symbol of his undying love. Because he did it for me and suffered untold aggravation to get it done.
No, contrary to what you may think, it is NOT an ordinary bathroom vent. It is actually a symbol of my husband's undying love for me.
I know what you are thinking - "Well,what do you know - she's finally lost her marbles. I knew it was only a matter of time."
I'll have you know that all my marbles are still intact, thank you very much.
It all started a few days ago when the temperatures here dropped drastically. For some reason, the master bedroom/bathroom - but particularly the bathroom - are at least ten degrees colder/hotter than the rest of the house; depending on the season.
So when the temperatures plummeted, I asked The Husband how difficult would it be to install a vent/heater combo in the bathroom. We had one at the last house, which is the only reason I knew this was an actual thing and not a daydream. He responded that he didn't think it would be a difficult thing to do. Which then prompted me to ask him to install one as I was getting tired of the unbecoming blue shade that I acquired after spending the time in there getting ready for work in the mornings. He never really responded.
This morning he informed me he was headed out for a walk. I thought it was his way of getting out of the house as I wrestled with the cookie press; after all these years he knows when it's time to make himself scarce. The next thing I knew he was walking in the door a couple hours later with a big box containing the vent/heater combo. Apparently, he'd hit Lowe's Home Improvement after his walk.
He then proceeded to unbox the item and went and looked at the old vent. About this time, I decided it would be prudent for me to take all the goodies to the office in order not to have to worry about getting them there in the morning. You see, after all these years, I've also learned when it's time to make myself scarce.
When I came home about an hour or two later, I walked into the bathroom to discover a pile of insulation on the floor, a gaping hole in the ceiling and The Husband beyond aggravated. He informed me that we needed a bigger breaker for this contraption - something he doesn't feel comfortable doing himself - but figured he'd attempt it after getting the vent/heater in - yes, at this point it still was sitting on the floor.
I suggested that he take a break and that we grab a bite of lunch. He agreed.
After lunch he headed back to the bathroom and I headed toward my closet/room/studio/whatever to finish wrapping a couple of gifts. This is when we learned that no matter how loud my husband can be - and believe me, he CAN be loud - when we are on opposite ends of the house I can't hear him. As I was finishing up the last gift I heard a faint noise and thought I'd better go check on him.
When I arrived he said, "About time! I've been calling you for at least ten minutes!!" as he was standing on the ladder holding the new contraption trying to keep it from falling.
Ooops. Lesson learned, when The Husband is involved in a project, it's best to stay within earshot.
Another lesson learned - when The Husband is involved in a project that's in the ceiling - it would be prudent to have a taller person than me on hand. I ended up standing on the toilet, on my tiptoes, trying to hold the contraption while he finished connecting whatever it was that he needed two hands to connect. Eventually, he was able to connect it and shove it up into the hole in the ceiling.
At this point, I figured I'd best stay in the area. He finally succeeded in getting everything situated just right and was able to finish the project - minus replacing the breaker. At this point, he'd spent approximately four hours on this project and was done.
I helped clean up the mess and told him how much I appreciated this "easy" project. And he informed me that had he read the directions before he started (he didn't, he never does. His preferred method of madness is to jump right in and only when he gets stumped does he stop to look at the directions) this project would have never been done.
Apparently, one of the first things the instructions said was "you will need access to the attic above the space" - which we do not have; if we had, this project probably would have been as easy as he thought.
And that, my friends, is why that humble vent is a symbol of his undying love. Because he did it for me and suffered untold aggravation to get it done.
December 10, 2016
Finally! It's about time we started getting our act together for the holiday....
And by "we", I mainly mean "me." Although The Husband has been pulling his weight and doing the things I demand ask nicely of him.
I took yesterday off in an attempt to get some things done - hopefully bypassing the shopping crowd that I expected today. I failed; at least in bypassing the crowds. Apparently, everyone else in town took the day off for the same purpose. But, I persevered and got a lot accomplished. And by "got a lot accomplished" I mean, "I spent a boat load of money."
But, in my defense, I will give the same argument I gave The Husband, it was all necessary and you should have seen how much money I actually saved. As a defensive argument, I will admit it's weak but it's all I have at the moment.
This morning found me running a few errands and then headed home to hide from the crowds. Since I hadn't followed my own advice of wrapping gifts as they were bought, I found myself in a marathon wrapping session. One which brought to a screeching halt as I realized there were two wrapped gifts without half the gift packed inside. Surprisingly, I was actually able to unwrap and re-wrap the gifts without too much effort.
Speaking of paper, this year, I feel victim to Pinterest and all the neutral decor and decided to wrap all my gifts with white kraft paper and let the ribbons add the color. After wrapping a sea of white gifts, I decided that I needed a little more color under the tree and wrapped a few using Christmas paper. Then The Husband wandered in and declared, to my surprise, that he liked the white gifts. Huh. Who would have thought that he, of all people, would be on board with something new?
The wrapping was again brought to a halt because I ran out of boxes - but the majority was done.
On to the next project...making goodies for the office "thing" on Monday. Generally, our floor is pretty sedate about Christmas. A few will decorate tastefully. And some will bring in a few treats. There may be a departmental lunch here and there. But for the most part, Christmas is ignored on our floor.
Until this year. A co-worker decided that we needed to have a floor-wide Christmas thing. And she dragged me into it. So we decided to have a Christmas/Holiday Goody Day - similar to what other floors do every year. Although, I have recently been aggravated with some of my co-workers, I begrudgingly agreed. Which is why after the marathon wrapping session, I found myself in another marathon - of the kitchen kind.
I made a cheese spread, fudge (which I just realized I banished last year - let's see if it fails me this year, if it doesn't it stays in rotation), peanut butter fudge (which is divine - recipe here), and almond bark. I fully meant to do the spritz cookies tonight but was completely worn out; so they may get done tomorrow - but hopefully early.
My plan is to take all the goodies to work tomorrow to store in the fridge so I don't have to carry everything in on Monday.
And then there's this - a post done. Yes, it's been a very productive day.
Although I am no where near ready for Christmas, I'm that much closer to being done. And? We have a tree! The Husband found the perfect one today. Currently, it's sitting in half in our front hall and half in our living room. It has lights and the angel and is otherwise bare but it's beautiful.
In addition to cookies, I've just added decorating the tree to tomorrow's ever growing To-Do List - it appears tomorrow may also prove just as productive.
How about you? Are you ahead of the game or are you like me - just getting by?
I took yesterday off in an attempt to get some things done - hopefully bypassing the shopping crowd that I expected today. I failed; at least in bypassing the crowds. Apparently, everyone else in town took the day off for the same purpose. But, I persevered and got a lot accomplished. And by "got a lot accomplished" I mean, "I spent a boat load of money."
But, in my defense, I will give the same argument I gave The Husband, it was all necessary and you should have seen how much money I actually saved. As a defensive argument, I will admit it's weak but it's all I have at the moment.
This morning found me running a few errands and then headed home to hide from the crowds. Since I hadn't followed my own advice of wrapping gifts as they were bought, I found myself in a marathon wrapping session. One which brought to a screeching halt as I realized there were two wrapped gifts without half the gift packed inside. Surprisingly, I was actually able to unwrap and re-wrap the gifts without too much effort.
Speaking of paper, this year, I feel victim to Pinterest and all the neutral decor and decided to wrap all my gifts with white kraft paper and let the ribbons add the color. After wrapping a sea of white gifts, I decided that I needed a little more color under the tree and wrapped a few using Christmas paper. Then The Husband wandered in and declared, to my surprise, that he liked the white gifts. Huh. Who would have thought that he, of all people, would be on board with something new?
The wrapping was again brought to a halt because I ran out of boxes - but the majority was done.
On to the next project...making goodies for the office "thing" on Monday. Generally, our floor is pretty sedate about Christmas. A few will decorate tastefully. And some will bring in a few treats. There may be a departmental lunch here and there. But for the most part, Christmas is ignored on our floor.
Until this year. A co-worker decided that we needed to have a floor-wide Christmas thing. And she dragged me into it. So we decided to have a Christmas/Holiday Goody Day - similar to what other floors do every year. Although, I have recently been aggravated with some of my co-workers, I begrudgingly agreed. Which is why after the marathon wrapping session, I found myself in another marathon - of the kitchen kind.
I made a cheese spread, fudge (which I just realized I banished last year - let's see if it fails me this year, if it doesn't it stays in rotation), peanut butter fudge (which is divine - recipe here), and almond bark. I fully meant to do the spritz cookies tonight but was completely worn out; so they may get done tomorrow - but hopefully early.
My plan is to take all the goodies to work tomorrow to store in the fridge so I don't have to carry everything in on Monday.
And then there's this - a post done. Yes, it's been a very productive day.
Although I am no where near ready for Christmas, I'm that much closer to being done. And? We have a tree! The Husband found the perfect one today. Currently, it's sitting in half in our front hall and half in our living room. It has lights and the angel and is otherwise bare but it's beautiful.
In addition to cookies, I've just added decorating the tree to tomorrow's ever growing To-Do List - it appears tomorrow may also prove just as productive.
How about you? Are you ahead of the game or are you like me - just getting by?
December 8, 2016
It's been what? Not quite six months...
Remember when I told you it took me ELEVEN YEARS to have my wedding rings repaired?
Well, guess what? Yup, another diamond went missing today. Are you freaking kidding me; less than six full months later?! Am I THAT hard on my jewelry? I think not.
If you ask me, it is a serious design flaw if the diamonds just keep falling out. Instead of asking them to fix it, I plan on seeing if they can re-design it using the same stones. I have a feeling they are going to tell me that to re-design the ring using the existing diamonds will be utterly expensive.
Luckily, I'm off tomorrow, so I plan to hit the jeweler then - fingers crossed - we already have plenty of evidence on the table that shows I have the ability to put things off forever.
The Husband just looked disgusted when I told him; shook his head and muttered, "If I had to do it again, I wouldn't have bought that ring!" I hope he meant that he would have bought a different design.
*Kidding...I hope.*
I'm posting this in hopes that it will spur me on to get the issue resolved. And if it doesn't, well then I will have an accurate record about how long I've procrastinated next time.
Well, guess what? Yup, another diamond went missing today. Are you freaking kidding me; less than six full months later?! Am I THAT hard on my jewelry? I think not.
If you ask me, it is a serious design flaw if the diamonds just keep falling out. Instead of asking them to fix it, I plan on seeing if they can re-design it using the same stones. I have a feeling they are going to tell me that to re-design the ring using the existing diamonds will be utterly expensive.
Luckily, I'm off tomorrow, so I plan to hit the jeweler then - fingers crossed - we already have plenty of evidence on the table that shows I have the ability to put things off forever.
The Husband just looked disgusted when I told him; shook his head and muttered, "If I had to do it again, I wouldn't have bought that ring!" I hope he meant that he would have bought a different design.
*Kidding...I hope.*
I'm posting this in hopes that it will spur me on to get the issue resolved. And if it doesn't, well then I will have an accurate record about how long I've procrastinated next time.
December 4, 2016
The Christmas Tree dilemma solved
Thank you DJan and Booksandcandy for your suggestions to my Christmas tree dilemma. I spent a good portion of the day trying to figure out to incorporate one or the other into our living room. Considering it's an "open" floor plan there is very limited wall space; it was challenging.
But all is not lost! No, the boys, knowing just how disappointed I was, spent some time today while I was out coming up with a new game plan.
Now this new plan means that the living room chair needs to be moved into the dining room - because the chair is too big to fit through the door to the bedroom - of course, the buffet in the dining room needs to be moved either into our bedroom or the kitchen and that means we will have even less seating in the living room than we already have but we will be able to squeeze a tree in there. So basically, we have to rearrange the whole damn house.
And although it is utterly ridiculous to have a giant chair in the dining room; I have decided to make the best of it and call it a "reading nook" as there is plenty of natural light due to the double windows. That, my friends, is called making the best of it.
Those two are my heroes. They saw how unhappy I was and set about to make me smile again - the best Christmas present!
Yes, I'm impossible to live with - I know this and own it. Someday's I can't even stand myself. But they claim to love me anyway; I honestly don't know how they put up with me.
Sadly though, this game plan came about too late in the day to go get a tree - not too mention the fact that it was seriously cold and rainy here today - so most likely we won't get a tree until next weekend. Unless they decide to pick one up after work this week.
But nonetheless - we WILL have a tree!!
Let the Christmas insanity begin...
But all is not lost! No, the boys, knowing just how disappointed I was, spent some time today while I was out coming up with a new game plan.
Now this new plan means that the living room chair needs to be moved into the dining room - because the chair is too big to fit through the door to the bedroom - of course, the buffet in the dining room needs to be moved either into our bedroom or the kitchen and that means we will have even less seating in the living room than we already have but we will be able to squeeze a tree in there. So basically, we have to rearrange the whole damn house.
And although it is utterly ridiculous to have a giant chair in the dining room; I have decided to make the best of it and call it a "reading nook" as there is plenty of natural light due to the double windows. That, my friends, is called making the best of it.
Those two are my heroes. They saw how unhappy I was and set about to make me smile again - the best Christmas present!
Yes, I'm impossible to live with - I know this and own it. Someday's I can't even stand myself. But they claim to love me anyway; I honestly don't know how they put up with me.
Sadly though, this game plan came about too late in the day to go get a tree - not too mention the fact that it was seriously cold and rainy here today - so most likely we won't get a tree until next weekend. Unless they decide to pick one up after work this week.
But nonetheless - we WILL have a tree!!
Let the Christmas insanity begin...
December 3, 2016
Is it still Christmas if there isn't a tree?
Yes, I know the reason for the season - but still, we generally do up the house for Christmas with all the usual trappings up to and including a tree. Even when we were in the tiny condo - we had a tree. Even when we moved into said condo exactly three weeks before Christmas, we had a tree.
This year, sadly, it is looking like there will not be a tree. *sob* I've never had a Christmas without a tree. This annoys and saddens me to no end.
This morning the boys went off to do something so I pulled out my boxes and began happily decorating the front porch, my mantle and tucking in festive touches here and there. When they came home, we spent the majority of the morning rearranging the living room in hopes of finding a spot for the tree. We failed.
I left the house frustrated in search of battery operated candles with a timer, which also exasperated me as I have plenty of window candles with cords that have the sensor in them to turn them off and on. But can I use them? No.
Because of the five windows facing the street only ONE of them is anywhere near an outlet - of course. Luckily I did find the candles - but am dubious about how well they are going to work. I've held onto my receipt just in case. If they don't work that will be the final nail in the coffin on this holiday season - because along with the tree we always have candles in the windows.
Yes, I am a big believer in tradition. And one by one all of our traditions are falling by the wayside.
While I was out I did have the brilliant idea that if we moved the TV, etc. upstairs we could shove a tree in that little corner of the living room. The Husband nixed that idea immediately because he's a Grinch who would rather not be inconvenienced when watching TV than having a tree.
The only other areas that could accommodate a tree is the kitchen (never gonnna happen - how ridiculous is that?), our bedroom (nope - for the same reason) or the back porch - where at least we would get to see the tree from the living room - but honestly; how would the decorations hold up in the elements?
So unless some amazing idea comes up within the next day or so - we will be without a tree come Christmas morning. I KNEW this was going to be an issue when we bought this house - I just didn't realize how big of an issue it was going to become.
At this point, I'm practically ready to pack all the decorations I put out this morning away and just forget about the whole damn thing; that's how annoyed I am right now.
What a way to start the Christmas season - annoyed and frustrated to the point of tears.
This year, sadly, it is looking like there will not be a tree. *sob* I've never had a Christmas without a tree. This annoys and saddens me to no end.
This morning the boys went off to do something so I pulled out my boxes and began happily decorating the front porch, my mantle and tucking in festive touches here and there. When they came home, we spent the majority of the morning rearranging the living room in hopes of finding a spot for the tree. We failed.
I left the house frustrated in search of battery operated candles with a timer, which also exasperated me as I have plenty of window candles with cords that have the sensor in them to turn them off and on. But can I use them? No.
Because of the five windows facing the street only ONE of them is anywhere near an outlet - of course. Luckily I did find the candles - but am dubious about how well they are going to work. I've held onto my receipt just in case. If they don't work that will be the final nail in the coffin on this holiday season - because along with the tree we always have candles in the windows.
Yes, I am a big believer in tradition. And one by one all of our traditions are falling by the wayside.
While I was out I did have the brilliant idea that if we moved the TV, etc. upstairs we could shove a tree in that little corner of the living room. The Husband nixed that idea immediately because he's a Grinch who would rather not be inconvenienced when watching TV than having a tree.
The only other areas that could accommodate a tree is the kitchen (never gonnna happen - how ridiculous is that?), our bedroom (nope - for the same reason) or the back porch - where at least we would get to see the tree from the living room - but honestly; how would the decorations hold up in the elements?
So unless some amazing idea comes up within the next day or so - we will be without a tree come Christmas morning. I KNEW this was going to be an issue when we bought this house - I just didn't realize how big of an issue it was going to become.
At this point, I'm practically ready to pack all the decorations I put out this morning away and just forget about the whole damn thing; that's how annoyed I am right now.
What a way to start the Christmas season - annoyed and frustrated to the point of tears.
November 27, 2016
Name my room...
:gasp: I know! THREE posts in less than two weeks?! Sometimes I amaze even myself.
The productive streak that was mentioned in the last post seems to continue. I have to wonder just how long it will last?
Today found me snapping up a few more Christmas gifts and feeling very proud of myself. And then, I found myself home alone - a rarity indeed - and decided that I should at least start to tackle my dressing room/closet/whatever it is you call a room you have commandeered for your clothes and shoes (what say you? Dressing room? Closet? Her Majesty's Room of Clothes?).
Remember those boxes that found their way from Man-Child's room to my room way back in September? They were still sitting in my room. Along with three other boxes that had never been dealt with.
Today was the day that I decided to tackle those boxes AND the closet in this room. To be honest, the closet wasn't in too bad of shape - but I figured I needed to pull down my winter scarves, etc. to make them more accessible as the weather continues to plod toward winter. I was able to deal with three boxes easily. I still have two boxes sitting here filled with old photos, etc.
I figure the baby pictures of Man-Child can be tossed because I know that I have copies. It's the other pictures and mementos that I'm having a harder time deciding how they need to be dealt with. I'm thinking for the photos that I don't have copies of I'll take out of their frames and put in an album. The other stuff needs more thought as they are precious but not needed or necessary - such as the personalized sampler that a friend made and framed for Man-Child's birth that outlines his name, birth date, weight, etc. In my heart of hearts, I know this is not something he will want but at the same time how can I just heartlessly toss it?
Although those two boxes are still sitting in here, having gotten the rest of it squared away I realized just what a resource I have in this little room. I have a comfy chair, I have a door and I have some quiet. And that is why you are reading this. I have a room that I can escape too occasionally. To think. To write. Am I writing great prose? No. But I am exercising that creative muscle - which frankly needs some exercise.
This room is far from finished. I still need to clear the Christmas gifts from the dresser - but you and I both know that until those gifts are wrapped and sent off to their recipients; it is there they will stay. My shoe storage system is woefully ugly - but useful. I still have a few prints sitting on the floor awaiting a decision as to whether they will be hung, stored or given away.
But that's okay. I've discovered my room. And I love it. Now let's figure out what we should call it; because I'd like to think I'm going to be spending a lot more time in here.
The productive streak that was mentioned in the last post seems to continue. I have to wonder just how long it will last?
Today found me snapping up a few more Christmas gifts and feeling very proud of myself. And then, I found myself home alone - a rarity indeed - and decided that I should at least start to tackle my dressing room/closet/whatever it is you call a room you have commandeered for your clothes and shoes (what say you? Dressing room? Closet? Her Majesty's Room of Clothes?).
Remember those boxes that found their way from Man-Child's room to my room way back in September? They were still sitting in my room. Along with three other boxes that had never been dealt with.
Today was the day that I decided to tackle those boxes AND the closet in this room. To be honest, the closet wasn't in too bad of shape - but I figured I needed to pull down my winter scarves, etc. to make them more accessible as the weather continues to plod toward winter. I was able to deal with three boxes easily. I still have two boxes sitting here filled with old photos, etc.
I figure the baby pictures of Man-Child can be tossed because I know that I have copies. It's the other pictures and mementos that I'm having a harder time deciding how they need to be dealt with. I'm thinking for the photos that I don't have copies of I'll take out of their frames and put in an album. The other stuff needs more thought as they are precious but not needed or necessary - such as the personalized sampler that a friend made and framed for Man-Child's birth that outlines his name, birth date, weight, etc. In my heart of hearts, I know this is not something he will want but at the same time how can I just heartlessly toss it?
Although those two boxes are still sitting in here, having gotten the rest of it squared away I realized just what a resource I have in this little room. I have a comfy chair, I have a door and I have some quiet. And that is why you are reading this. I have a room that I can escape too occasionally. To think. To write. Am I writing great prose? No. But I am exercising that creative muscle - which frankly needs some exercise.
This room is far from finished. I still need to clear the Christmas gifts from the dresser - but you and I both know that until those gifts are wrapped and sent off to their recipients; it is there they will stay. My shoe storage system is woefully ugly - but useful. I still have a few prints sitting on the floor awaiting a decision as to whether they will be hung, stored or given away.
But that's okay. I've discovered my room. And I love it. Now let's figure out what we should call it; because I'd like to think I'm going to be spending a lot more time in here.
November 26, 2016
Thanksgiving / Black Friday recap.
What can I say - both were all around success stories - for once. With only a minor hiccup here and there.
I'm not going to lie - Thanksgiving was stressing me out this year. You may have picked up on it in my last post, but if you didn't that's okay because we all know how subtle I can be...
I flew home on Monday (so glad I wasn't traveling later in the week) exhausted and still sick but muddling through. Like a dummy, I neglected to take Tuesday off so I had to work. Wednesday, although I was off, found me feeling really ill. I'm not sure if it was just the tail end of whatever I've been battling or if it was sheer exhaustion from the long, stressful weekend.
At any rate, not much was accomplished on Wednesday, which meant that the actual D-Day was extra busy as I scurried around and prepped the house for guests. And I'm proud to say, that I accomplished everything I'd set out to do, for the most part. But the stress of having seven of us for dinner, one of whom I barely know and three of whom I'd never met at all (an introverts worst nightmare), meant that I wasn't surprised when I had a mini-meltdown regarding missing forks. Oh sure, I've known that some spoons have gone missing and a few steak knives but forks? I thought I'd been keeping a better eye on them.
Apparently not.
But here's the deal - just WHERE does missing cutlery go? We all know that the dryer eats random socks on occasion but forks? I'm beginning to wonder if the dishwasher has picked up on what the dryer is doing and has become a copycat.
Eventually, I calmed down and used a salad fork in place of a regular fork and since I was the one using the salad fork; I don't think anyone else was the wiser. And after a glass of wine and chatting with The Girlfriend's mother and sisters for a few minutes my shattered nerves were somewhat put back together. Turns out they are very nice people. But I know me, it will take several more meetings before I feel completely comfortable with them.
The Husband put out a wonderful spread which was well received. As were the pies that I'd made - including the pumpkin one that I tweeted about the day before...
Turns out our children really ARE kind of clueless about us. I've been making him pumpkin pie every year since he was old enough to request it but he'd never noticed that I never, ever ate it. The only reason he noticed this year was because he was in the kitchen as I was putting it together and noticed my grimace as I was adding the pumpkin in to the mixture. Maybe that means he's becoming more aware? Doubtful.
Yesterday morning found me up really, really early. The Husband had to go to work and Man-Child was sleeping, of course. The paper person has been running really late here recently, so I didn't have my usual routine of coffee and paper. So instead I was idly sifting through the Black Friday sale papers. I had no real intention of heading out. But as I was turning the pages it began to dawn on me that I had not bought one single gift. And even worse? I hadn't even started a list of ideas.
I pulled a pad of paper over and began to jot a few items down that I knew would suit certain people. I figured I'd head out and if it was too crazy, I'd just come home. So imagine my surprise when I walked into Kohl's around 8:00 am and found that the store was practically empty. Clutching my list in my hand, I darted around the store and was able to find everything but one thing. I was in and out of that store in under 40 minutes; walking away with at least five gifts.
After that I came home and made lemon poppy-seed muffins for Man-Child because why not? I have to admit, I fudged the recipe though because I didn't feel like searching for an actual lemon poppy-seed muffin recipe; but they turned out okay. My only nit? Not lemony enough. I've made a mental note to add more lemon juice next time.
Once Man-Child loaded up his car with leftovers to take to friends at school (yes, he's headed up the mountain for the weekend) and took off it was about lunchtime. The Husband and I had made plans for lunch. And honestly? That was the extent of my plans. Until after lunch, when I had the thought that if I hit the other Kohl's, I just might find that one gift I'd missed out on this morning.
And I did. But the lines at this Kohl's were INSANE. So I headed over to the jewelry. I figured I could find something for my mother-in-law and check out there (they will let you check everything out there as long as you are actually buying a piece of jewelry) and, once again, hit the jackpot and was in and out of the store in no time.
All of this success emboldened me, I then headed for Michael's and Bath & Body Works. Where once again - despite the crowds, I was able to find what I wanted and get out fairly quickly.
Today, I joined a friend and her mother and daughter for The Craftsman's Christmas Classic Arts & Crafts Show. Basically, we and a million other people file into the Coliseum to look at various arts & crafts. People have some talent and creativity, let me tell you. I didn't buy much but it was a good way to spend time with friends and help get me in the Christmas spirit.
Now, while I am no where NEAR being done, at least I have made some headway on the Christmas shopping and maybe that will be the impetus to getting it done sooner rather than later.
How about you? Are you in the Christmas spirit yet? Have you finished your shopping (if so, I'm really jealous) or are you in a blind panic wondering just how you are going to do it all?
I'm not going to lie - Thanksgiving was stressing me out this year. You may have picked up on it in my last post, but if you didn't that's okay because we all know how subtle I can be...
I flew home on Monday (so glad I wasn't traveling later in the week) exhausted and still sick but muddling through. Like a dummy, I neglected to take Tuesday off so I had to work. Wednesday, although I was off, found me feeling really ill. I'm not sure if it was just the tail end of whatever I've been battling or if it was sheer exhaustion from the long, stressful weekend.
At any rate, not much was accomplished on Wednesday, which meant that the actual D-Day was extra busy as I scurried around and prepped the house for guests. And I'm proud to say, that I accomplished everything I'd set out to do, for the most part. But the stress of having seven of us for dinner, one of whom I barely know and three of whom I'd never met at all (an introverts worst nightmare), meant that I wasn't surprised when I had a mini-meltdown regarding missing forks. Oh sure, I've known that some spoons have gone missing and a few steak knives but forks? I thought I'd been keeping a better eye on them.
Apparently not.
But here's the deal - just WHERE does missing cutlery go? We all know that the dryer eats random socks on occasion but forks? I'm beginning to wonder if the dishwasher has picked up on what the dryer is doing and has become a copycat.
Eventually, I calmed down and used a salad fork in place of a regular fork and since I was the one using the salad fork; I don't think anyone else was the wiser. And after a glass of wine and chatting with The Girlfriend's mother and sisters for a few minutes my shattered nerves were somewhat put back together. Turns out they are very nice people. But I know me, it will take several more meetings before I feel completely comfortable with them.
The Husband put out a wonderful spread which was well received. As were the pies that I'd made - including the pumpkin one that I tweeted about the day before...
After all these years, MC just realized I don't care for pumpkin pie. Then wanted to know why I make it. For you dear boy, for you.— Gigi (@gigirambles) November 23, 2016
Turns out our children really ARE kind of clueless about us. I've been making him pumpkin pie every year since he was old enough to request it but he'd never noticed that I never, ever ate it. The only reason he noticed this year was because he was in the kitchen as I was putting it together and noticed my grimace as I was adding the pumpkin in to the mixture. Maybe that means he's becoming more aware? Doubtful.
Yesterday morning found me up really, really early. The Husband had to go to work and Man-Child was sleeping, of course. The paper person has been running really late here recently, so I didn't have my usual routine of coffee and paper. So instead I was idly sifting through the Black Friday sale papers. I had no real intention of heading out. But as I was turning the pages it began to dawn on me that I had not bought one single gift. And even worse? I hadn't even started a list of ideas.
I pulled a pad of paper over and began to jot a few items down that I knew would suit certain people. I figured I'd head out and if it was too crazy, I'd just come home. So imagine my surprise when I walked into Kohl's around 8:00 am and found that the store was practically empty. Clutching my list in my hand, I darted around the store and was able to find everything but one thing. I was in and out of that store in under 40 minutes; walking away with at least five gifts.
After that I came home and made lemon poppy-seed muffins for Man-Child because why not? I have to admit, I fudged the recipe though because I didn't feel like searching for an actual lemon poppy-seed muffin recipe; but they turned out okay. My only nit? Not lemony enough. I've made a mental note to add more lemon juice next time.
Once Man-Child loaded up his car with leftovers to take to friends at school (yes, he's headed up the mountain for the weekend) and took off it was about lunchtime. The Husband and I had made plans for lunch. And honestly? That was the extent of my plans. Until after lunch, when I had the thought that if I hit the other Kohl's, I just might find that one gift I'd missed out on this morning.
And I did. But the lines at this Kohl's were INSANE. So I headed over to the jewelry. I figured I could find something for my mother-in-law and check out there (they will let you check everything out there as long as you are actually buying a piece of jewelry) and, once again, hit the jackpot and was in and out of the store in no time.
All of this success emboldened me, I then headed for Michael's and Bath & Body Works. Where once again - despite the crowds, I was able to find what I wanted and get out fairly quickly.
Today, I joined a friend and her mother and daughter for The Craftsman's Christmas Classic Arts & Crafts Show. Basically, we and a million other people file into the Coliseum to look at various arts & crafts. People have some talent and creativity, let me tell you. I didn't buy much but it was a good way to spend time with friends and help get me in the Christmas spirit.
Now, while I am no where NEAR being done, at least I have made some headway on the Christmas shopping and maybe that will be the impetus to getting it done sooner rather than later.
How about you? Are you in the Christmas spirit yet? Have you finished your shopping (if so, I'm really jealous) or are you in a blind panic wondering just how you are going to do it all?
November 17, 2016
Struggling yet thankful.
I'm not gonna lie, I've been struggling a bit. Yes, I remind myself of all that I have to be thankful for everyday.
But I have to say, a lot has been going on over here. No, nothing too monumental or life altering (thank goodness!) but enough that I have been struggling to process it all and it continues to take up space in my brain. And wrestling with how I should handle some of the things.
Work things. Like a lack of communication from a key person. Well, that's not quite right. It's not so much a "lack" of communication and more of a "refusal" to communicate. In all my years, both here and elsewhere, I've never run across such a situation. Whenever I point out the obvious, it's laughed off. As is everything else. It's like this person not only doesn't value me or appreciate what I am capable of and thinks it's all a joke. To be honest, this is probably the not the biggest thing that I've been wrestling with over here but it is a biggie considering that I have to deal with this on a daily basis. The icing on the cake? Being told by my old manager that this behavior will not change any time soon and that there is nothing he can really do about it.
Thanksgiving. What can I say? I can't believe it's next week and I'm no where near ready. Yes, I realize, I don't actually cook the dinner but still - I do have my part. But considering what I have to deal with this weekend any and all prep time I may have had has been reduced to a single day. Which wouldn't be a huge deal if it was just the three of us, as I initially expected. But no, I've been informed that Man-Child's girlfriend and her mother and sisters will be joining us, which is fine really. But this house? To say it needs some work is an understatement.
And can we talk about this house? All the projects that I want to get done are swirling in my brain. And yet, nothing is getting done. Not even a little bit is getting done.
Speaking of this weekend...it will find me jetting my way to Arkansas. Yes, Arkansas. Why might I be heading to Arkansas voluntarily 5 days before Thanksgiving, you might ask. Because I have the unenviable task of attending my very favorite aunt's memorial. The aunt who was my second mother. I am well and truly an orphan now. And my heart is completely broken. If it weren't for the fact that my cousin is hurting so very much and needs support, I have to wonder if I would be headed that way for a memorial at this point. Apparently, after my aunt died, my cousin didn't/couldn't face a funeral - which I understand, so there wasn't one, had there been, it goes without saying that I would have been there. She said she would have a memorial later. Until I received notice last weekend, a mere 6 days later, that they would hold it this weekend and when she said she needed me what else could I do but say yes? That's right, nothing. So I will be there.
Of course, right before I received notification that I would need to fly across the country, I began "trying to get an ear infection" - my doctor's words. So, I've been trying to overcome that before I get on the plane on Saturday. As you know, when you don't feel well, everything is overwhelming. I'm happy to report I'm on the mend and hope to be able to fly without any excruciating pain on Saturday.
And, of course, there was the lead up to the election, the election and the aftermath. You know, I don't do politics here, but I just want to say the whole thing was ugly from the beginning. We discovered just how ugly we can be, as people. I hope we've learned something from all this - particularly about empathy and kindness. Unfortunately, as screens continue to be something some of us can hide behind, I have my doubts.
There was also the whole party that was thrown into my lap. Which, I have been told, was a complete and total success (finally! ONE thing that worked out!).
So maybe, that's my way forward - handling each little thing as I have to - rather than trying to deal with it all at once.
Actually, that's my only option at this point.
Now about Christmas...NOPE. Not even ready to think about that yet. I keep telling myself I will get back on track but every year seems to throw me further off track.
At any rate, I AM thankful. And considering this will probably be the closest to a "Thanksgiving" post that I'll get to this year...have a happy Thanksgiving and remember that I count each of you as a blessing and am thankful for you each and every day.
xo
But I have to say, a lot has been going on over here. No, nothing too monumental or life altering (thank goodness!) but enough that I have been struggling to process it all and it continues to take up space in my brain. And wrestling with how I should handle some of the things.
Work things. Like a lack of communication from a key person. Well, that's not quite right. It's not so much a "lack" of communication and more of a "refusal" to communicate. In all my years, both here and elsewhere, I've never run across such a situation. Whenever I point out the obvious, it's laughed off. As is everything else. It's like this person not only doesn't value me or appreciate what I am capable of and thinks it's all a joke. To be honest, this is probably the not the biggest thing that I've been wrestling with over here but it is a biggie considering that I have to deal with this on a daily basis. The icing on the cake? Being told by my old manager that this behavior will not change any time soon and that there is nothing he can really do about it.
Thanksgiving. What can I say? I can't believe it's next week and I'm no where near ready. Yes, I realize, I don't actually cook the dinner but still - I do have my part. But considering what I have to deal with this weekend any and all prep time I may have had has been reduced to a single day. Which wouldn't be a huge deal if it was just the three of us, as I initially expected. But no, I've been informed that Man-Child's girlfriend and her mother and sisters will be joining us, which is fine really. But this house? To say it needs some work is an understatement.
And can we talk about this house? All the projects that I want to get done are swirling in my brain. And yet, nothing is getting done. Not even a little bit is getting done.
Speaking of this weekend...it will find me jetting my way to Arkansas. Yes, Arkansas. Why might I be heading to Arkansas voluntarily 5 days before Thanksgiving, you might ask. Because I have the unenviable task of attending my very favorite aunt's memorial. The aunt who was my second mother. I am well and truly an orphan now. And my heart is completely broken. If it weren't for the fact that my cousin is hurting so very much and needs support, I have to wonder if I would be headed that way for a memorial at this point. Apparently, after my aunt died, my cousin didn't/couldn't face a funeral - which I understand, so there wasn't one, had there been, it goes without saying that I would have been there. She said she would have a memorial later. Until I received notice last weekend, a mere 6 days later, that they would hold it this weekend and when she said she needed me what else could I do but say yes? That's right, nothing. So I will be there.
Of course, right before I received notification that I would need to fly across the country, I began "trying to get an ear infection" - my doctor's words. So, I've been trying to overcome that before I get on the plane on Saturday. As you know, when you don't feel well, everything is overwhelming. I'm happy to report I'm on the mend and hope to be able to fly without any excruciating pain on Saturday.
And, of course, there was the lead up to the election, the election and the aftermath. You know, I don't do politics here, but I just want to say the whole thing was ugly from the beginning. We discovered just how ugly we can be, as people. I hope we've learned something from all this - particularly about empathy and kindness. Unfortunately, as screens continue to be something some of us can hide behind, I have my doubts.
There was also the whole party that was thrown into my lap. Which, I have been told, was a complete and total success (finally! ONE thing that worked out!).
So maybe, that's my way forward - handling each little thing as I have to - rather than trying to deal with it all at once.
Actually, that's my only option at this point.
Now about Christmas...NOPE. Not even ready to think about that yet. I keep telling myself I will get back on track but every year seems to throw me further off track.
At any rate, I AM thankful. And considering this will probably be the closest to a "Thanksgiving" post that I'll get to this year...have a happy Thanksgiving and remember that I count each of you as a blessing and am thankful for you each and every day.
xo
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