I've been trying to post this for the past week - but it has just been too hard and I'm still on the fence as to whether I will post or not.
Last week, the world lost a wonderful person. One who loved deeply and laughed loudly. A beautiful soul that was loved by all who met her was lost...to suicide.
Even now, it doesn't seem possible.
She and I had lost touch over the years for various reasons. And that makes this so much more difficult.
I had always thought there would be time to mend the broken fence; there wasn't. I always knew that we would reconnect at some point - because how could we not - we were soul sisters; now we never will. I always knew the day would come that would find us sitting at the table again with a glass of wine either laughing hysterically or in the throes of a deep conversation; that will never happen. I knew that we would celebrate at our children's weddings; now we won't. I knew we would revel in our grandchildren; now we can't.
I thought she knew that I would always be there when she needed me; apparently, she didn't. And I will always wonder...WHY?
I am beyond devastated.
Learn from me...mend those fences now because as the old adage goes, tomorrow isn't promised. And. as it usually is with adages; it's true.
Please, send up prayers for the three beautiful children she's left behind...they are going to need them. And while you are at it; say a couple for me.
The service is next week and then this will all be all too real; and I don't know if I can handle it.
Because I am still having a hard time believing that she isn't out there in the world.
April 13, 2018
April 2, 2018
New York City and Bread
So, in the event you aren't on Twitter...
Man-Child is headed off on an adventure - by himself!! - send prayers for both him and his mother; who will be a nervous wreck until he's home safe. #lettingthemfly #easytosay #hardertodo— Gigi (@gigirambles) April 2, 2018
Man-Child headed out last night about 9:00 pm - destination NYC. By himself. I did not approve of this solo venture...but what could I say, because The Husband so astutely pointed out - he IS an adult (technically). He also reminded me that when he was Man-Child's age he moved to Houston alone. And that I was married when I was at that age. Funny how when you are on this side - the parent side - your child/adult child doesn't seem to be old enough for things that you did at that age.
As a side note, Man-Child just called me in a panic - it seems he has lost his glasses. You know, the things he needs to see (and drive) with...*sigh* We are hoping he finds them - otherwise huge hassle. Which he very well may - he "lost" his wallet right before he left only to find it under a pile of clothes. *sigh*
Why he continues to insist that he doesn't need them all the time, I'll never know. But I do know this - based on how often he is squinting to see something far away he will have a major case of crow's feet before he hits thirty.
And then we segue to bread...
Remember WAY back to the time when I actually made homemade bread successfully? Yeah, I can't believe it's been seven years either...so much for that recipe being a "keeper." During this time off, I thought it would be a good idea to try that recipe again...seven years later.
Way back then I bookmarked the site but that bookmark will not let me see the recipe anymore. It took me awhile but eventually it occurred to me that I may have blogged about it...and viola a quick search proved that I did AND I not only included the link, the full recipe and how I did it. And that folks is why you should blog about EVERY LITTLE THING - eventually it will come in handy.
So I set about bread making. The result - NOTHING like the original. In fact, it was SO awful that it went straight into the trash. Then it became a mission - that was postponed because of Easter.
Our Easter was spent with great friends and wonderful food. The Husband thought I was crazy when I set up the bread fifteen minutes before they were to arrive - but he doesn't seem to understand - there is a time formula here. The bread must set up for a long time...so I needed to start it then in order to be held hostage at home this morning until it was time to bake...as I noted in the link above...if you have about 16 hours to kill...
Here's today's version...
I was pleased with the result. The crust was crisp and the bread tasty. The Husband? He thought it ok but hadn't risen as much as the original.
So I searched out the photo from before...
Hmmm...maybe he's right. *sigh* Back to the drawing board for me. Although, it will have on a weekend...see 16 hours/being held hostage.
March 30, 2018
I had my toes done with THE most unlikely companion...
Spring is definitely here (I know I'm jinxing this as I type) in North Carolina. Sandal Season is upon us and I needed a pedicure in the worst way. My usual companion in this particular endeavor was not available due to having company.
I WILL have my toes done by myself but I prefer to have a companion. Particularly, if that company is more outgoing than me and will carry the majority of the chit-chat that seems to accompany such an endeavor.
After I had determined that I would be going no matter what; I texted The Husband...
The fact that he'd even consider it amazed me. I know he has been complaining about having a difficulty in trimming his nails lately - but I didn't realize it had become such an issue that he'd contemplate actually going to a salon to get them done.
I will say, I DID have to do some fast talking to actually get him to go. He swore that if they turned him away that he would never speak to me again. I assured him they would not turn him away.
His trepidation was palpable when we walked in; but the receptionist was kind and greeted us warmly. As I knew they would. I was directed to pick out my polish and The Husband blindly followed, I informed him that he could skip this step - unless he wanted it, the receptionist joked.
I had wrongly assumed that the middle of the afternoon on a Friday before a holiday that the salon would be slow. It seems everyone and God had the afternoon off and had descended upon this particular salon.
I picked out my polish and we waited. I could sense his nervousness ratcheting up as the wait continued. Eventually, we were asked to take our seats.
And then we sat. And sat. And sat. And then, sat some more. The Husband was coming unglued at this point. He was ready to just walk out. I talked Mr. Impatient (yes, that IS his actual nickname around here) into waiting just a bit longer.
Eventually, the two technicians showed up and prepared to do our feet. Mine started about ten minutes before his - which irked him even more. What he didn't understand, this worked out for the best because I had polish that needed to dry. When his technician showed up, he told her "I just want my nails cut, nothing fancy!" Because he was DONE with this salon business. She, of course, ignored him. She also told him, that he would have to wait on me anyway so why not get the whole kit and kaboodle? Basically, she held him hostage; bless her.
As I went off to dry, he sat back and enjoyed the full benefits of a pedicure. After it was all said and done and we were walking to the car I asked him what he thought. He was extremely displeased with the wait - but then again, I AM married to Mr. Impatient; but he enjoyed it once it started. I also noted that he took a picture - I, of course, was forbidden from taking pictures because he "didn't want this plastered ALL OVER the internet" - which he sent to his daughter - who might well plaster this all over the internet before it's all said and done. He was really pleased with the results. He also stated that he would do it again IF, and only IF, we had an appointment so we didn't have to wait.
I have a feeling that the next time I need a pedicure and a buddy to accompany me, he will fill the bill...as long as I pay and he doesn't have to see the receipt. Because his thoughts on spending $25 dollars to get your toes done...is unprintable. But as I told him, spending time with your wife doing something enjoyable/beneficial for the both of you is priceless.
He's not quite as on board with that idea as I'd like...but he's getting there.
I WILL have my toes done by myself but I prefer to have a companion. Particularly, if that company is more outgoing than me and will carry the majority of the chit-chat that seems to accompany such an endeavor.
After I had determined that I would be going no matter what; I texted The Husband...
 |
| I'm as shocked as you are. |
The fact that he'd even consider it amazed me. I know he has been complaining about having a difficulty in trimming his nails lately - but I didn't realize it had become such an issue that he'd contemplate actually going to a salon to get them done.
I will say, I DID have to do some fast talking to actually get him to go. He swore that if they turned him away that he would never speak to me again. I assured him they would not turn him away.
His trepidation was palpable when we walked in; but the receptionist was kind and greeted us warmly. As I knew they would. I was directed to pick out my polish and The Husband blindly followed, I informed him that he could skip this step - unless he wanted it, the receptionist joked.
I had wrongly assumed that the middle of the afternoon on a Friday before a holiday that the salon would be slow. It seems everyone and God had the afternoon off and had descended upon this particular salon.
I picked out my polish and we waited. I could sense his nervousness ratcheting up as the wait continued. Eventually, we were asked to take our seats.
And then we sat. And sat. And sat. And then, sat some more. The Husband was coming unglued at this point. He was ready to just walk out. I talked Mr. Impatient (yes, that IS his actual nickname around here) into waiting just a bit longer.
Eventually, the two technicians showed up and prepared to do our feet. Mine started about ten minutes before his - which irked him even more. What he didn't understand, this worked out for the best because I had polish that needed to dry. When his technician showed up, he told her "I just want my nails cut, nothing fancy!" Because he was DONE with this salon business. She, of course, ignored him. She also told him, that he would have to wait on me anyway so why not get the whole kit and kaboodle? Basically, she held him hostage; bless her.
As I went off to dry, he sat back and enjoyed the full benefits of a pedicure. After it was all said and done and we were walking to the car I asked him what he thought. He was extremely displeased with the wait - but then again, I AM married to Mr. Impatient; but he enjoyed it once it started. I also noted that he took a picture - I, of course, was forbidden from taking pictures because he "didn't want this plastered ALL OVER the internet" - which he sent to his daughter - who might well plaster this all over the internet before it's all said and done. He was really pleased with the results. He also stated that he would do it again IF, and only IF, we had an appointment so we didn't have to wait.
I have a feeling that the next time I need a pedicure and a buddy to accompany me, he will fill the bill...as long as I pay and he doesn't have to see the receipt. Because his thoughts on spending $25 dollars to get your toes done...is unprintable. But as I told him, spending time with your wife doing something enjoyable/beneficial for the both of you is priceless.
He's not quite as on board with that idea as I'd like...but he's getting there.
March 29, 2018
It's the little things - this applies to life and, apparently, blogging.
Am I finally remembering what got this blog started in the first place...those quirky, little things?
I was on the cusp of five whole days off...I know! Since the Christmas vacation (here is where I'd usually post a link. Apparently, I'm SO off my game I didn't even mention it this year. For those not in the know, I generally hoard the majority of my vacation until Christmas) I haven't taken one day. Even for me this unprecedented.
But this year I had decided to supplement the Good Friday and Easter Monday that my company so generously offers up as holidays with two days of vacation thus equaling a full week of paid time off.
Only to discover that this coincided with "Check the Lights" morning/night (depending on the time of year).
Normal people are now wondering what the hell Check the Lights is...this is the morning or night that The Husband has to drive around the various branches that he is responsible for to make sure all the lights are working properly.
A thoroughly tedious task, I am sure.
This affects me how?
Generally, this entire household is up before the crack of dawn. Although, I must say that Man-Child is new to this routine...and, it appears, the one who has to be up and out before the rest of us of late. Which is novel. And I appreciate that more than you can imagine...this for the child that had to be grabbed by the ankle and pulled out of bed every morning before school...yes, I truly do appreciate it.
...back to the story; on Check the Lights morning the alarm clock needs to go off extra early...usually this isn't too much of an inconvenience as I'm getting up anyway. But this morning I had the ability to sleep in! (Could I make it to 8:00 am?! Highly doubtful) So I decided to set the alarm on The Husband's phone and shut off the other alarms.
This alarmed (ha!) The Husband as he wasn't quite sure that he could figure out how to turn it off. Yes, we are slowly pulling him into this century.
This plan worked to my advantage better than I could have expected. His alarm went off - as it wasn't a noise I was expecting to hear - and he was able to turn it off quickly; it meant that I was able to sleep in until 7:00 am! I was over the moon - this was a historic turn of events - I fully expected to be awake by 5:00 am.
When he came home, I asked him if he wanted me to re-set his alarm (I'd only programmed it for the one day since I was thinking yesterday was Thursday - as usual, I was off by a day) and he proudly told me that he'd already set it. When I gave him "the look" (i.e., Are You Sure?) he said he'd Googled it and then handed me the phone to double check. He did it correctly.
Now, I'm looking forward to sleeping in again tomorrow...I hope.
I was on the cusp of five whole days off...I know! Since the Christmas vacation (here is where I'd usually post a link. Apparently, I'm SO off my game I didn't even mention it this year. For those not in the know, I generally hoard the majority of my vacation until Christmas) I haven't taken one day. Even for me this unprecedented.
But this year I had decided to supplement the Good Friday and Easter Monday that my company so generously offers up as holidays with two days of vacation thus equaling a full week of paid time off.
Only to discover that this coincided with "Check the Lights" morning/night (depending on the time of year).
Normal people are now wondering what the hell Check the Lights is...this is the morning or night that The Husband has to drive around the various branches that he is responsible for to make sure all the lights are working properly.
A thoroughly tedious task, I am sure.
This affects me how?
Generally, this entire household is up before the crack of dawn. Although, I must say that Man-Child is new to this routine...and, it appears, the one who has to be up and out before the rest of us of late. Which is novel. And I appreciate that more than you can imagine...this for the child that had to be grabbed by the ankle and pulled out of bed every morning before school...yes, I truly do appreciate it.
...back to the story; on Check the Lights morning the alarm clock needs to go off extra early...usually this isn't too much of an inconvenience as I'm getting up anyway. But this morning I had the ability to sleep in! (Could I make it to 8:00 am?! Highly doubtful) So I decided to set the alarm on The Husband's phone and shut off the other alarms.
This alarmed (ha!) The Husband as he wasn't quite sure that he could figure out how to turn it off. Yes, we are slowly pulling him into this century.
This plan worked to my advantage better than I could have expected. His alarm went off - as it wasn't a noise I was expecting to hear - and he was able to turn it off quickly; it meant that I was able to sleep in until 7:00 am! I was over the moon - this was a historic turn of events - I fully expected to be awake by 5:00 am.
When he came home, I asked him if he wanted me to re-set his alarm (I'd only programmed it for the one day since I was thinking yesterday was Thursday - as usual, I was off by a day) and he proudly told me that he'd already set it. When I gave him "the look" (i.e., Are You Sure?) he said he'd Googled it and then handed me the phone to double check. He did it correctly.
Now, I'm looking forward to sleeping in again tomorrow...I hope.
March 26, 2018
A rambling post...we haven't one of these in a while
There is much I want to share and I could probably make each thing its very own post - but we are talking about me here so that would probably never happen and that's why you are getting a post in "bits."
***
I think I have FINALLY found a cure for the hiccups! Of course, I am totally jinxing myself here as this particular cure has only been utilized once. But try it for yourself and tell me the results.
A huge, heaping tablespoon of crunchy peanut butter - the crunch part being crucial; because I've tried this with creamy without the same results. But when using the crunchy I experienced IMMEDIATE results.
As we all know, I DESPISE the hiccups - so this was a huge relief to be able to get rid of them within moments of them starting.
***
Earrings. Hands up...who knew that not all earring posts were not created equal?
Not me.
So I asked for sterling silver hoops for Christmas because my go to, every day hoops were showing their age (much like I am of late). I asked for them because I know myself...if I were to shop for them myself I would look for the EXACT REPLICA of what I already had. And given how old those earrings were I'd still be looking...because they don't exist today.
The Husband produced the perfect pair for Christmas morning (yes, I AM pulling material from nearly four months ago!). Which is when I discovered the discrepancy in earring posts. And that is when I had to re-pierce my ears in order to actually wear the new earrings.
And here's the moral to that bit of randomness...change up your earrings every once in a while...because those posts? There isn't an industry standard.
***
Shall we talk about driving etiquette? Friday, as I was behind a giant - and slow moving garbage truck - the person behind me determined that somehow his tailgating me could make everything move at a quicker pace. Considering we were on neighborhood roads, with no passing, this wasn't possible. As soon as we turned onto a two lane boulevard this person sped ahead of us all. Fine...be on your way and leave the rest of us alone.
The irony? About ten miles up the road? I found myself immediately behind him at a red light. His impatience and anxiety was for naught...we both arrived at our destination at the same time (apparently, Mr. Impatient works in the same building as I do).
And speaking of driving etiquette...FOR THE LOVE OF GOD what is it going to take to make people use their turn signals? It is one of my biggest pet peeves.
***
Man-Child.
Yes, it's been a while since there has been an update on this front. As some of you so astutely noticed in my last post yes...he has found a job.
He is currently working as a PE teacher for an elementary school about an hour from here. Some days he seems to love it; other days not so much.
Apparently, these poor kids have been rotating through substitutes like nobody's business. This means that MC's charges are used to no discipline (according to him).
This is not his dream job and I expect he will be keeping his eyes open for a job that will allow him to coach within the next year or so.
***
The Husband just complained about why manufacturers put that thin, metal piece over the opening of various tubes. This was my time to shine.
I took the tube and lid from him and using the lid pierced the thin, metal piece. He was AMAZED and asked how I knew to do that - for the life of me I can't remember how I learned that but I'm sure it's because I was reading the directions...something he rarely does.
I asked him how he had been opening these tubes all these years and he said, "With a knife." Well...that totally explains all of the many cuts to his hands over the years.
'***
I found a new bra that I *could* love - if it fit properly. Amy, from A My Name Is Amy recommended the Spanx Bra-llelujah bra which I found in a local store on sale and while it IS more comfortable than any other bra I have tried, it rides up a bit. And given that this bra does not have an adjustable back hooks or straps that is hard to overlook for me. I finally gave in and ordered (at full price) a smaller band size with larger cups. While that one fits pretty well it's a tad constricting...which leads me to believe that I am an in-between size. So I am considering a different style of Spanx which lets me adjust as needed, I'll report back.
In the meantime, I can't wait for the one in the smaller band size to stretch out just a bit, as most bras do; then I think I will have found THE perfect bra.
I did hear great things about Walcoal - but I tried on a few yesterday and did not find them comfortable AT ALL. So what about you? In your opinion what is the most comfortable bra - because now I am on a mission here...
***
Earrings. Hands up...who knew that not all earring posts were not created equal?
Not me.
So I asked for sterling silver hoops for Christmas because my go to, every day hoops were showing their age (much like I am of late). I asked for them because I know myself...if I were to shop for them myself I would look for the EXACT REPLICA of what I already had. And given how old those earrings were I'd still be looking...because they don't exist today.
The Husband produced the perfect pair for Christmas morning (yes, I AM pulling material from nearly four months ago!). Which is when I discovered the discrepancy in earring posts. And that is when I had to re-pierce my ears in order to actually wear the new earrings.
And here's the moral to that bit of randomness...change up your earrings every once in a while...because those posts? There isn't an industry standard.
***
Shall we talk about driving etiquette? Friday, as I was behind a giant - and slow moving garbage truck - the person behind me determined that somehow his tailgating me could make everything move at a quicker pace. Considering we were on neighborhood roads, with no passing, this wasn't possible. As soon as we turned onto a two lane boulevard this person sped ahead of us all. Fine...be on your way and leave the rest of us alone.
The irony? About ten miles up the road? I found myself immediately behind him at a red light. His impatience and anxiety was for naught...we both arrived at our destination at the same time (apparently, Mr. Impatient works in the same building as I do).
And speaking of driving etiquette...FOR THE LOVE OF GOD what is it going to take to make people use their turn signals? It is one of my biggest pet peeves.
***
Man-Child.
Yes, it's been a while since there has been an update on this front. As some of you so astutely noticed in my last post yes...he has found a job.
He is currently working as a PE teacher for an elementary school about an hour from here. Some days he seems to love it; other days not so much.
Apparently, these poor kids have been rotating through substitutes like nobody's business. This means that MC's charges are used to no discipline (according to him).
This is not his dream job and I expect he will be keeping his eyes open for a job that will allow him to coach within the next year or so.
***
The Husband just complained about why manufacturers put that thin, metal piece over the opening of various tubes. This was my time to shine.
I took the tube and lid from him and using the lid pierced the thin, metal piece. He was AMAZED and asked how I knew to do that - for the life of me I can't remember how I learned that but I'm sure it's because I was reading the directions...something he rarely does.
I asked him how he had been opening these tubes all these years and he said, "With a knife." Well...that totally explains all of the many cuts to his hands over the years.
'***
I found a new bra that I *could* love - if it fit properly. Amy, from A My Name Is Amy recommended the Spanx Bra-llelujah bra which I found in a local store on sale and while it IS more comfortable than any other bra I have tried, it rides up a bit. And given that this bra does not have an adjustable back hooks or straps that is hard to overlook for me. I finally gave in and ordered (at full price) a smaller band size with larger cups. While that one fits pretty well it's a tad constricting...which leads me to believe that I am an in-between size. So I am considering a different style of Spanx which lets me adjust as needed, I'll report back.
In the meantime, I can't wait for the one in the smaller band size to stretch out just a bit, as most bras do; then I think I will have found THE perfect bra.
I did hear great things about Walcoal - but I tried on a few yesterday and did not find them comfortable AT ALL. So what about you? In your opinion what is the most comfortable bra - because now I am on a mission here...
March 14, 2018
In today's news of random, semi-creepy coincidences...
So this morning - this very, very COLD morning (where are you Spring?) - my Keurig decided that it was out of the coffee making business.
I tried all my usual tricks to get that sucker up and running but it was having none of it. In a snit, I headed off to get ready for the day. The Husband,knowing how much I need my coffee in the morning because he loves me so VERY much continued to futz about with the machine until he was able to produce one glorious cup of coffee for me.
I have since googled it and have added a few new tricks to my bag to extend the life of that ONE YEAR old coffee maker. I also discovered that there are commercial kits out there so that you don't have to go through any nonsense to keep your Keurig running like new - information that would, you know, be USEFUL to include in the Keurig User Manual (just saying Keurig...)
How many times can I say Keurig in one paragraph?
At any rate, while I was enjoying that one cup of coffee that required The Husband to move mountains to produce, I noticed a new email notification letting me know that there was a new comment on one of my posts. As you can imagine, if you blog, it made me smile...comments always make me smile. Until I opened it. Then I had to laugh out loud. And then, I got a creepy little shiver.
(I re-typed it in order to make sure the links were removed).
I tried all my usual tricks to get that sucker up and running but it was having none of it. In a snit, I headed off to get ready for the day. The Husband,
I have since googled it and have added a few new tricks to my bag to extend the life of that ONE YEAR old coffee maker. I also discovered that there are commercial kits out there so that you don't have to go through any nonsense to keep your Keurig running like new - information that would, you know, be USEFUL to include in the Keurig User Manual (just saying Keurig...)
How many times can I say Keurig in one paragraph?
At any rate, while I was enjoying that one cup of coffee that required The Husband to move mountains to produce, I noticed a new email notification letting me know that there was a new comment on one of my posts. As you can imagine, if you blog, it made me smile...comments always make me smile. Until I opened it. Then I had to laugh out loud. And then, I got a creepy little shiver.
(I re-typed it in order to make sure the links were removed).
Pawan Sharma has left a new comment on your post "HAPPY NEW YEAR! And, apparently, I work with disg...":
This is a better than average read for me, That You Must concede are outstanding amongst other bloggers I saw. A debt of gratitude is in order for posting this useful article.
Visit us today for coffee machine repair service.
Aside from the over the top flattery designed to make me dearly want to click the link, what made me shiver? The fact that the spam link said COFFEE MACHINE REPAIR.
What? Is my Keurig now announcing to the whole internet that it is tired of my eternal coffee making demands, thus opening the door to this kind of spam?
March 12, 2018
It takes a village...and they actually like it, even if they pretend they don't
As some of you may have heard - we had snow today. More snow than was expected. Yes, those of you that live in the Great White North may laugh - but down here more than an inch or so IS a big deal.
Needless to say, Man-Child's school closed...after he'd already driven all the way in - of course. And I found myself headed home around 11:00 am - what can I say? I'm from Texas; I don't "do" snow and ice.
This evening as Man-Child was getting ready to eat dinner he received a text informing him that his school was on a two hour delay tomorrow. I personally think they will eventually call it - because we are currently under a black ice advisory tomorrow. About two minutes after Man-Child announced the delay a co-worker/friend sent me the following:
And this is what comes from working with people for years upon years - we find ourselves on the lookout for our co-worker/friend's kids - because they are near and dear to our hearts as we've all watched our children grow up. And yes, there is nothing wrong with having more eyes and ears looking out for our nearest and dearest.
Needless to say, Man-Child's school closed...after he'd already driven all the way in - of course. And I found myself headed home around 11:00 am - what can I say? I'm from Texas; I don't "do" snow and ice.
This evening as Man-Child was getting ready to eat dinner he received a text informing him that his school was on a two hour delay tomorrow. I personally think they will eventually call it - because we are currently under a black ice advisory tomorrow. About two minutes after Man-Child announced the delay a co-worker/friend sent me the following:
And this is what comes from working with people for years upon years - we find ourselves on the lookout for our co-worker/friend's kids - because they are near and dear to our hearts as we've all watched our children grow up. And yes, there is nothing wrong with having more eyes and ears looking out for our nearest and dearest.
March 6, 2018
Not to be a whiner BUT...A complaint or two...
Without going into a lot of detail, a new person has been hired. The problem? This person should have more than a basic level of working knowledge of Word - but less than an intermediate level of working knowledge.
It has become quite apparent that this person has the very basic level of working knowledge of Word. And also does not seem to be very confident or sure of the knowledge a person in this position should have.
Why this irritates me. This person has a degree and should have all the aforementioned knowledge but because of the degree this person was not subject to a proficiency test prior to hiring. Because this person was exempt from such a test we are now stuck with them. At least until their incompetence becomes clear to management or until they decide they are too overwhelmed and quit - both scenarios are unlikely due to many different factors.
Another reason this irritates? Because if I were this incompetent I would have been gone years ago.
My second nit...
Yet another car of ours has been recalled due to defective airbags.
WHY?! But that isn't the kernel of the problem. Today I called the local dealership to make an appointment to have this issue resolved. I wanted to schedule an appointment for Saturday because the car in question is Man-Child's...who is currently working two counties away; which equates to about an hour from the house.
I was informed that "they don't do those types of repairs on Saturday." Because "Saturday's are our busiest days...and those repairs take at least 120 minutes" (and why are they giving me the time in minutes? To make me feel better about being without a car for two hours?).
Again, Man-Child works an hour away. And he's a teacher. AND he's a new teacher that has been on the job for only a few weeks. So he can't, as they so helpfully suggested, "adjust" his work schedule.
So basically this car company has installed defective equipment and the affiliated dealership doesn't want to accommodate those that have been affected. Oh sure, they'll fix it...but on their terms.
Seriously?
It has become quite apparent that this person has the very basic level of working knowledge of Word. And also does not seem to be very confident or sure of the knowledge a person in this position should have.
Why this irritates me. This person has a degree and should have all the aforementioned knowledge but because of the degree this person was not subject to a proficiency test prior to hiring. Because this person was exempt from such a test we are now stuck with them. At least until their incompetence becomes clear to management or until they decide they are too overwhelmed and quit - both scenarios are unlikely due to many different factors.
Another reason this irritates? Because if I were this incompetent I would have been gone years ago.
My second nit...
Yet another car of ours has been recalled due to defective airbags.
WHY?! But that isn't the kernel of the problem. Today I called the local dealership to make an appointment to have this issue resolved. I wanted to schedule an appointment for Saturday because the car in question is Man-Child's...who is currently working two counties away; which equates to about an hour from the house.
I was informed that "they don't do those types of repairs on Saturday." Because "Saturday's are our busiest days...and those repairs take at least 120 minutes" (and why are they giving me the time in minutes? To make me feel better about being without a car for two hours?).
Again, Man-Child works an hour away. And he's a teacher. AND he's a new teacher that has been on the job for only a few weeks. So he can't, as they so helpfully suggested, "adjust" his work schedule.
So basically this car company has installed defective equipment and the affiliated dealership doesn't want to accommodate those that have been affected. Oh sure, they'll fix it...but on their terms.
Seriously?
March 4, 2018
All because I needed to dust that ceiling fan today...
The ceiling fan in the living room is on a semi-vaulted part of the ceiling - so I asked The Husband, since he was in chore-doing kind of mood this afternoon, if he would bring in the ladder so I could dust that fan.
He obliged and even held the ladder as I climbed up with an old pillowcase to capture all that dust. Everything went like clockwork until one particularly large dust bunny escaped from the pillowcase and drifted into the glass covering the light kit.
As I gingerly reached into the glass to toss that offending dust bunny back into the pillowcase the entire light kit and glass covering fell into my hand. I panicked for a minute - I had no idea what to do. The Husband certainly couldn't climb the ladder with me on it - but I couldn't let go of the whole, tangled mess without it crashing onto the floor.
Once my brain unlocked itself, I realized I could unscrew the glass covering and hand it down and the actual light kit part could dangle freely until The Husband could put this unholy mess back together.
Until we got to the "put this unholy mess back together" part.
For whatever reason, we could not get that thing back together again - and the more I looked at the whole contraption the more convinced I became that the previous owner (it should be noted that I am still angry with those people over the whole blackberry bush fiasco) had done some kind of rigging on this fan - because nothing about putting this back together was normal. And they probably did it in order to put in the stupid light bulbs that s-l-o-w-l-y brighten that are EVERYWHERE in this house; the same ones I have been replacing left and right because I hate them with a passion (because when I want light, I want it NOW not five minutes from now!); almost, but not as much as I hate that damn blackberry bush; but it's close...so very close.
Eventually, it became clear that a run to Home Depot was in order *sigh*. I was in the middle of making two pound cakes; so that was my first priority. I waited for the cakes to finish baking, made the glaze; glazed them and then headed back into town - for the THIRD time today. Much to my consternation, The Husband declined to come with me. He felt that I understood the dilemma well enough. I also thought I had a thorough understanding of the dilemma...
Upon arriving at Home Depot I located an employee that could help me. I explained the dilemma, as I understood it. He grasped my problem immediately and told me that I didn't need a new light kit. He said all I needed was a longer "neck" and some washers. He explained the procedure and sent me on my way with all the knowledge and equipment that I would need to fix the problem.
When I got home and imparted all the knowledge the Home Depot man had shared - it became quite apparent that I did NOT have a complete grasp on the initial issue - because not one of the items I purchased was able to fix the problem. *sigh* And THAT was why I had wanted The Husband to come with me - what the hell do I know about ceiling fans?!
I may have uttered one or more expletives while exclaiming that I would NOT be making another run into town today.
And this is why three hours after I began the very simple task of dusting the fan - that stupid light kit is currently hanging on by a wing and a prayer - and possibly some electrical tape. And I might also be searching for an entire new fan and light kit - because this one needs to be set on fire...now.
February 3, 2018
I finally worked up the courage to paint my bathroom vanity!
I have hated the cabinets in this house since before we moved in almost two years ago. In that time, I have spent MANY hours online looking at the various options - replacing (expensive!!), staining (iffy), and painting (iffy and far to many ways to do it). I was really leaning toward the staining option - mainly because I have successfully stained over older furniture pieces in the past. But these are cheap, builder grade, ugly honey oak cabinets and everything I'd read led me to believe it might be hard to cover the grain.
And then I stumbled across this gorgeous image of a painted navy blue bathroom cabinet with gold hardware. Here is where I would link the image - but being the bad blogger I am, I didn't save it, pin it, or do whatever was necessary to recall where I found it.
Just like that I was obsessed. I mentioned to The Husband that we should paint the guest/Man-Child's bathroom vanity. He responded with "Do what you want." Which indicated that he thought I was just making a random statement.
The next day I hopped over to Home Depot to talk to someone in the paint department. To my utter delight, the woman I talked to had just painted her kitchen cabinets over the summer. And this woman told me how "easy" it was - but mentioned that it IS time-intensive - which I sort of assumed.
Now, just imagine The Husband's utter shock when I came home with all the supplies to paint that vanity.
Note: I wasn't kidding when I said ugly, cheap builder grade vanity. I knew something had to be done. AND I knew that if I completely screwed this project up I was more than willing to shell out the money to replace this vanity. I didn't want to spend the money to replace the vanity right now - as I have other plans that will require money - but if this project went south very quickly, I would have replaced it.
And that's the one caveat I'm offering here - be willing to replace it or live with it if you screw it up. Just because the paint lady at Home Depot claimed she successfully painted her cabinets - it didn't automatically translate that I would successfully paint mine.
I will give the paint lady at Home Depot credit - she claimed I only needed a quart of paint - and she was right - I used less than a quarter of the can. I did have to buy a full gallon of primer because they only had a spray can or a gallon. I figured that this primer will come in handy for future projects though. This project only cost about $100. I'll list all the products used below.
As to the "how" - I removed all the doors, drawers and hardware and cleaned every inch of it using Liquid TSP Substitute. Then I primed each piece. Here's what I learned - be sure to put the primer on evenly with no drips because, surprisingly, paint does not cover those mistakes. So yes, my finished project is NOT perfect...particularly since I went with such a dark color - but I'll take it. I could probably sand those imperfections and re-paint. But I think the imperfections aren't that visible. I used an angled brush for the beveled edges and tight spots. Other than that, I rolled everything I could.
Once the primer dried, I painted the first coat and let it dry for 24 hours. Then I painted the second coat. That coat I let dry for about three days - I wanted that sucker to be good and dry before I allowed Man-Child back in the room and put everything back together.
Now here is where I got really irritated. When The Husband put the doors back on we experienced some nicks - totally not his fault. I will touch those up and see how it goes - I may need to seal it but I'm going to wait and see. And as I said earlier - if needs be, I have no problem with replacing the vanity, but I'm hoping to get a few more years out of this one.
But in the meantime? I LOVE the result. What do you think?
And then I stumbled across this gorgeous image of a painted navy blue bathroom cabinet with gold hardware. Here is where I would link the image - but being the bad blogger I am, I didn't save it, pin it, or do whatever was necessary to recall where I found it.
Use Navy Blue Painted Bathroom Vanity with Gold Hardware to Google it and you'll
get an idea of what I mean - despite combing through the results
I still haven't found the original post (*sigh*).
Just like that I was obsessed. I mentioned to The Husband that we should paint the guest/Man-Child's bathroom vanity. He responded with "Do what you want." Which indicated that he thought I was just making a random statement.
The next day I hopped over to Home Depot to talk to someone in the paint department. To my utter delight, the woman I talked to had just painted her kitchen cabinets over the summer. And this woman told me how "easy" it was - but mentioned that it IS time-intensive - which I sort of assumed.
Now, just imagine The Husband's utter shock when I came home with all the supplies to paint that vanity.
Yep, that about sums it up perfectly
As I began to prepare the space, he found that he "needed" to be somewhere else. But before he could leave I made him remove the doors for me. So that and the subsequent re-hanging of the doors is his sole contribution to this task.
After he pulled his disappearing act, I had the presence of mind to actually take a "Before" picture (I know! A miracle!)
 |
| Ignore the clutter behind the doors, please. Phase Two of this project will deal with storage |
Note: I wasn't kidding when I said ugly, cheap builder grade vanity. I knew something had to be done. AND I knew that if I completely screwed this project up I was more than willing to shell out the money to replace this vanity. I didn't want to spend the money to replace the vanity right now - as I have other plans that will require money - but if this project went south very quickly, I would have replaced it.
And that's the one caveat I'm offering here - be willing to replace it or live with it if you screw it up. Just because the paint lady at Home Depot claimed she successfully painted her cabinets - it didn't automatically translate that I would successfully paint mine.
I will give the paint lady at Home Depot credit - she claimed I only needed a quart of paint - and she was right - I used less than a quarter of the can. I did have to buy a full gallon of primer because they only had a spray can or a gallon. I figured that this primer will come in handy for future projects though. This project only cost about $100. I'll list all the products used below.
As to the "how" - I removed all the doors, drawers and hardware and cleaned every inch of it using Liquid TSP Substitute. Then I primed each piece. Here's what I learned - be sure to put the primer on evenly with no drips because, surprisingly, paint does not cover those mistakes. So yes, my finished project is NOT perfect...particularly since I went with such a dark color - but I'll take it. I could probably sand those imperfections and re-paint. But I think the imperfections aren't that visible. I used an angled brush for the beveled edges and tight spots. Other than that, I rolled everything I could.
Once the primer dried, I painted the first coat and let it dry for 24 hours. Then I painted the second coat. That coat I let dry for about three days - I wanted that sucker to be good and dry before I allowed Man-Child back in the room and put everything back together.
Now here is where I got really irritated. When The Husband put the doors back on we experienced some nicks - totally not his fault. I will touch those up and see how it goes - I may need to seal it but I'm going to wait and see. And as I said earlier - if needs be, I have no problem with replacing the vanity, but I'm hoping to get a few more years out of this one.
But in the meantime? I LOVE the result. What do you think?
 |
| Yes, I realize I need one more knob for that middle drawer |
Yes, I skipped the gold hardware that was in the inspiration photo (that isn't here) despite the fact that all the doorknobs are gold in this house (see above picture). Mainly because all those gold doorknobs are slowly being replaced.
Products I bought (all links are for your convenience only-this post is not sponsored in any way):
4 inch roller
Blue painters tape
New knobs (LOVE the new square knobs!)
Products I had on hand:
Plastic (to cover the floor)
Gloves (to keep my hands clean - this marginally worked - re the Kilz in my hair at one point).
Drill
Screwdriver
The upcoming steps in this project? Remove the other vanity (yes, there is another vanity - the original owners obviously coveted two vanities in this room rather than a linen closet) and install floor to ceiling shelving and sand the Amityville Horror paint off the walls (the last owners used old, oil based paint - and the oil continues to leach through - maybe that gallon of Kilz will come in handy after all...)
If you plan to tackle this project - I would suggest waiting until it's warmer so you can contain the majority of the mess in the garage. I was stuck in a small space with everything everywhere and it was a mess.
You can only imagine the contortions I went through trying to get in and out of that room without brushing up against wet paint or primer...which may explain the Kilz in my hair.
I am so pleased with the results! So much so that I am now eyeballing the Master Bath vanity...
If you plan to tackle this project - I would suggest waiting until it's warmer so you can contain the majority of the mess in the garage. I was stuck in a small space with everything everywhere and it was a mess.
 |
| This was early on - it got more cluttered the further the project went. |
You can only imagine the contortions I went through trying to get in and out of that room without brushing up against wet paint or primer...which may explain the Kilz in my hair.
I am so pleased with the results! So much so that I am now eyeballing the Master Bath vanity...
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