For the Love of Fireworks

Baby Hoosier's Debut courtesy of Cagney & Red Balloon Studios

2011-05-10T14:27:00.002-04:00

My soon to be brother-in-law makes movies like this one of our niece:

Marlowe June from Red Balloon Studios on Vimeo.

31 - Easter Time

2011-03-31T17:18:00.001-04:00

Get ready for Easter!! Make something fun, use Ukrainian Pysanky to decorate some eggs or find a menu.

Edit: make this very awesome garland!!

30 - Have a Picnic

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Grab the Sandwich issue of Saveur and have a picnic or patio party.

29 - Get Ready for the Royal Wedding

2011-03-29T12:56:00.003-04:00

Spring time nuptials! Only one more month until the Royal Wedding, which will be the party of the century. All the details of the event can be found at The Telegraph or The Guardian .

(Photo via Brides from Press Association via AP Images)

28 - Start Your Summer Reading List

2011-03-28T22:56:00.001-04:00

27 - Delve into a TV Series on DVD

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Browse Netflix or IMDB for a Television Series to watch during a rainy weekend. There's also Planet Earth or LIFE dvds. Pop some popcorn and cozy up on a less than stellar spring day.

26 - Have a Shrimp Boil

2011-03-26T18:01:00.001-04:00

Have a Shrimp Boil!!

Food Network Shrimp Boil

Ingredients

* 2 lemons, halved, plus wedges for serving
* 1/2 cup Old Bay Seasoning
* 8 cloves garlic, smashed
* 1 large red onion, quartered
* 6 sprigs fresh thyme
* 1 pound baby red potatoes
* 4 ears corn, husked and snapped in half
* 1 1/4 pounds large shrimp, unpeeled
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Directions

Fill a large pot with 4 quarts of water. Squeeze the lemon juice into the water and add the squeezed lemon halves. Add the Old Bay, garlic and onion. Tie the thyme sprigs together with kitchen twine

and add to the pot. Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook about 5 minutes.

Add the potatoes to the pot and cook until just tender, about 10 minutes. Add the corn and cook 5 more minutes.

Meanwhile, slice along the back of each shrimp through the shells; remove the veins and rinse the shrimp. Add to the pot, cover and cook until the shrimp curl and are just opaque, 2 to 3 minutes.

Transfer the shrimp and vegetables with a slotted spoon or skimmer to a large bowl. Add the butter and about 1 cup broth to the bowl and toss until the butter is melted. Transfer the shrimp and vegetables to a platter. Serve with the remaining broth, lemon wedges and hot sauce, if desired.

(photo: Privatjokr)

25 - Visit a National Park

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Find a park near you and plan a day trip or a weekend getaway!

For a guide to seven parks out west, visit Sunset's Travel Page where they showcase:

Glacier National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Teton National Park

Olympic National Park

Yosemite National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Zion National Park

You could also visit Bar Harbor, Maine to go to Acadia National Park where you can be the first to see the sunrise in the U.S.!!

24 - Pop open some vinho verde or rosé

2011-03-24T13:24:00.000-04:00

Find a bottle of Portuguese Vinho Verde like Fâmega. Or peruse the picks from The Kitchn, which includes a variety. Find a crisp and refreshing Rosé to enjoy while toasting the arrival of spring!

23 - Make a Caribbean Dinner

2011-03-23T14:19:00.001-04:00

Make a colorful Caribbean dinner. Find recipes at Coastal Living, Sunset, or Food Network. A little flavor and spice will help get you in the mood for spring.

Paula Dean's Jerk Wontons with Caribbean Salsa

Ingredients
3 cups diced fresh pineapple
2 jalapenos, seeded and minced
1 seedless cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
3 tablespoons frozen apple juice concentrate, thawed
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Jerk-Seasoned Wonton Chips, recipe follows
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the pineapple, jalapenos, cucumber, bell peppers, and cilantro. In another bowl, combine the apple juice concentrate, oil, salt, and pepper. Add to the pineapple mixture, tossing gently to coat. Cover and chill for 4 hours. Serve with Jerk-Seasoned Wonton Chips.

Jerk-Seasoned Wonton Chips:
25 wonton wrappers, cut in half diagonally
1/3 cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon Caribbean Jerk Seasoning, recipe follows
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Place the wonton wrappers in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush with melted butter; sprinkle each evenly with jerk seasoning. Bake until lightly browned and crisp, 4 to 6 minutes. Cool completely on parchment paper. Serve immediately, or store chips in an airtight container up to 1 week.

(foodnetwork.com)

22 - Become A Patron of the Arts

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Become a patron of the arts by purchasing a membership to a museum, symphony, or cultural society. Do you like art, photography, music?? Find an organization in your area where you can enjoy their offerings. You might find a perk to your membership is that it is valid at other places nationally, which is helpful when you travel.

21 - Tackle Home Improvement Projects

2011-03-21T15:47:00.002-04:00

Make a list of the manageable home improvement projects you'd like to tackle. Do some research at HGTV, Martha Stewart, or DIY to get a list of resources you'll need then head to the home improvement and hardware store to get your goods.

20 - Happy Spring

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Find or plant some pretty flowers to brighten your spring day.

19 - Start Spring Cleaning

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Check out Real Simple or Martha Stewart for some tricks or inspiration to get your home in tip top shape this season.

18 - Restaurant Week

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Roast ~ Detroit, Michigan

Scoop out restaurant weeks in the cities nearest to you. The week provides an opportunity to eat at places typically outside your budget or outside your usual comfort zone.

17 - March Madness!!

2011-03-17T16:02:00.004-04:00

March Madness begins today. Find your team. Organize your brackets and start cheering!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T15:52:00.003-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

Indulge in some green beer or some lovely Irish food.

Don't forget to watch "Waking Ned Devine" !!

16 - Get Active

2011-03-16T15:50:00.001-04:00

Get active this month. Find a new activity or exercise to get your booty moving. Take a walk outside, go for a hike, sign up for a class, start a workout group, join karate. Move that body!

15 - Embrace Roman & Greek Mythology

2011-03-15T14:31:00.001-04:00

Read "Julius Caesar" or find some Roman or Greek Mythology to entertain you for the Ides of March.

(image: Privatjokr)

14 - Celebrate Pi day with Pie

2011-03-14T17:17:00.003-04:00

Celebrate Pi day by making a

"Glazed Blueberry Pie:

The combination of fresh and cooked blueberries gives this pie a unique, fresh flavor.

* 4 cups hulled fresh blueberries
* 1 cup sugar
* 3 tablespoons cornstarch
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar
* 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1 9-inch baked pie shell

Crush 2 cups of berries and blend with the sugar and cornstarch, which have been mixed together. Cook over direct heat, stirring frequently, until thick and smooth (8 to 10 minutes). Add the lemon juice. Cool. Then fold the remaining fresh berries into the mixture.

Sprinkle the confectioners' sugar over the bottom of the pie shell and add the filling. Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours. Serve topped with the whipped cream sweetened with the 1 tablespoon sugar."

(recipe from Yankee.com)

13 - Spring into Action

2011-03-13T17:11:00.000-04:00

Spring into action by finding a charity with whom to volunteer or a good cause to champion. This month, I'm making dresses for the sew-a-long which is posted in the left column of this blog. Find your cause and march into action.

Idealist.org is an excellent place to find organizations in need of your help.

12 - Buy a Cake Print

2011-03-12T23:04:00.004-05:00

Buy a beautiful 'Let Them Eat Cake' print from Paul Ferney

(image: Paul Ferney, www.paulferny.bigcartel.com)

Happy Birthday, Mom!

11 - Help Japan

2011-03-11T11:02:00.001-05:00

Help the Japanese recover from their heartbreaking tragedy.

This Yahoo! article highlights ways to help.

10 - Do your taxes!

2011-03-10T16:58:00.003-05:00

Do your taxes . Get them done so you can receive your refund early or so you have time to plan your payment. Either way, you'll be so relieved they are finished that your spring will be much more enjoyable.

9 - Make some Mardi Gras food

2011-03-09T17:31:00.002-05:00

In honor of Mardi Gras and New Orleans, why not make some Mardi Gras food??

Find some delicious inspiration here:

Epicurious Mardi Gras Guide

Rachael Ray's Mardi Gras Guide

Food + Wine New Orleans food party

Head to The Cooking Channel's website for cocktails & jambalaya or go to their blog, Devour for some gumbo hand pies.

Spice up your home menu in order to spice up your spring!

8 - Get a Paczki

2011-03-08T13:37:00.005-05:00

Get a Polish Paczki (doughnut like pastry) to celebrate Fat Tuesday!

(Image: freep.com, ANDRE J. JACKSON)

7 - Celebrate Carnival

2011-03-07T17:03:00.004-05:00

Celebrate Carnival vicariously through Budget Travel Online. Be an arm chair traveler and head to Flickr to search for photos of your destination. Peruse Lonely Planet, Travel + Leisure, or another travel website to read about your Carnival city. Exploring through your screen could be fun and might encourage you to plan a trip for next Carnival or Spring break.

Carnival in Quito, Ecuador 2008

6 - Find a Shamrock plant to grow

2011-03-06T16:46:00.002-05:00

Plant a shamrock! Head to your local gardening center to find a Oxalis, a.k.a. Shamrock, plant to grow so you'll have good luck year round.

Learn how to at: Martha Stewart or The Gardener's Rake".

5 - Watch "Groundhog Day"

2011-03-05T16:44:00.002-05:00

Watch the movie 'Groundhog Day'

(image: imdb.com)

4 - Combating Winter Blues

2011-03-04T14:45:00.004-05:00

Combat your winter blues

Maybe spring hasn't sprung quite yet and you need help getting rid of the lingering winter blues. Find some ideas for battling your general malaise at The Kitchn.

You could also go get a Shamrock Shake...

(image: delish.com)

Or you can make make your own.

Spring Quotation

2011-03-04T14:16:00.000-05:00

“It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.”

~ Charles Dickens

3 - Stir Fry

2011-03-03T22:51:00.004-05:00

Stir Fry

One of the best ways to use your spring vegetables is in a stir fry. Here's my latest concoction:

carrots, diced
celery, sliced
water chestnuts, diced
(any other vegetables you might have. these were the ones I had on hand.)
cooked chicken
cooked rice
toasted sesame oil (best stuff ever. I use Spectrum.)
sesame seeds
soy sauce
garlic, diced
pepper

Cook your rice according to the package. The sooner you cook it, the better. Leftover cold rice is best but not necessary.

I usually cook my chicken on medium in the sesame oil with garlic or use a rotisserie chicken tossed in the oil and garlic.

Heat a wok on medium and coat with sesame oil. It is important to use medium to low heat for this oil. Cook the carrots in the oil for about five minutes, until tender. Remove from the pan and set aside. Cook the celery and water chestnuts in the pan with the oil and some garlic about five minutes or until tender. Set aside with the carrots.

Add some more oil to the pan and add the cooked rice. Toss in the oil, add garlic and sesame seeds. Once coated, add the chicken and cook until warmed. Add the rest of the vegetables and toss the stir fry together. Season to your liking with soy sauce and pepper then serve warm.

Enjoy!

2 - Start a Garden

2011-03-02T17:10:00.005-05:00

Start a garden!

Nothing says spring like starting a garden. Now is the time to pick your seeds and plan what you'll grow. Whether you have a patio, large plot of land, or a roof top, there is something for you in the new issue of Martha Stewart Living.

(image: Maineac)

Grab the March issue and grow something green!

1 - new shorts

2011-03-01T13:11:00.004-05:00

new shorts

Every spring I look for Ann Taylor LOFT's spring short line up. I've made it somewhat of a tradition to get their newest shorts, assuming they have a pattern I like. This year the options are:

Pansy Bloom Shorts

and

Shooting Star Shorts.

I like them both and plan to welcome spring with these two pairs.

Spring is in the air with March

2011-03-01T13:03:00.003-05:00

For the fickle month of March, we have 31 days of spring and holiday celebrations. This year fat Tuesday falls on March 8th, which means something for Mardi Gras. We have St. Patrick's day for the lucky and the official day of spring for the hopeful. Daylight savings steals an hour from us but maybe we can overlook nature's theft with a planned excursion that will exhaust to the point of forgetfulness about the lost hour.

Happy March!

End of February

2011-02-28T16:29:00.004-05:00

Today marks the end of February and the end of a month of loves. In addition to the things with which I am enamored, I believe this month should include the following:

Something chocolate, preferably molten like these cakes.

Something bubbly, such as Lambrusco or maybe a rose, or some cava, champagne or prosecco. Whatever suits your tastes.

Something pink, such as a Slice of Pink.

A fun project for the winter blues.

A good mystery book.

And lots of soup, such as Giada's tortellini soup. (or stew or chili so long as it's warm!)

twenty eight - my family

2011-02-28T16:28:00.005-05:00

My family.

I couldn't get the picture to scan. Maybe another time.

twenty seven - my camera

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My camera. It's a Canon Powershot digital Elph .

I love, love, love it.

twenty six - Adventures

2011-02-26T15:37:00.001-05:00

adventures

exploring new places and things is one of the things I love most.

twenty five - my socks

2011-02-25T15:18:00.003-05:00

Ann Taylor LOFT's socks

I didn't even like socks until I went to NYC for Christmas where the wind made me reconsider. I bought more socks there than I had in years. I am obsessed with and adore these fuzzy, cozy socks from the LOFT. I bought four pairs and would have acquired more had they not sold out. I will look for them next year as my feet have never felt so luxurious.

twenty four - Kiss My Face Whenever Shampoo

2011-02-24T12:49:00.002-05:00

Kiss My Face Whenever Shampoo

The smell is phenomenal. A candle in this scent would be heaven. Also, the shampoo is environmentally friendly; good for you and good for the planet. What isn't to love?
(image: kissmyface.com)

twenty three - foreign languages

2011-02-23T15:24:00.009-05:00

foreign languages

I acquire foreign languages like some acquire shoes. I speak three languages and am a beginner in five others. There is very little that's more exciting than using second language skills proficiently. Having the ability to communicate with others in their languages is one of my favorite personal accomplishments.

(images: amazon.com)

twenty two - 'Walking Ned Devine'

2011-02-22T13:22:00.003-05:00

'Walking Ned Devine'

(image: amazon.com)

I watch it every year on St. Patrick's day. It's my favorite movie.

twenty one - tea

2011-02-21T15:18:00.007-05:00

tea

Lots and lots, in all forms, and a plethora of flavors. I love tea.

our tea cupboard

I highly recommend TeaGschwendner's Indian Chai, which is currently our favorite, and the one featured in the blue tea jar.

twenty - Scandinavia

2011-02-20T14:08:00.006-05:00

Scandinavia

(Credit: wikitravel.com)

I have a huge crush on Scandinavia and would love to have a little shop in Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Reykjavik, Oslo...or any of the region's lovely cities. Our adventure list includes exploration of this part of Europe. In the meantime, I've been studying Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish.

nineteen - basketball

2011-02-19T13:35:00.003-05:00

basketball

(credit: villanova.com)

Especially college basketball; particularly Villanova basketball. To get more specific, Corey Fisher's three pointers.

eighteen - HGTV Dream Home Giveaway

2011-02-18T00:19:00.006-05:00

HGTV's Dream Home giveaway

Every year they let you enter to win a dream home. This year, it's in Stowe, Vermont. The contest starts in January and ends in mid-February. I love to see where the next location is and what they've done with the homes.

seventeen - The Vampire Diaries

2011-02-17T15:29:00.005-05:00

The Vampire Diaries:

I shamelessly love, love, love The Vampire Diaries.

sixteen - reading

2011-02-16T11:58:00.005-05:00

staying up late to read a book

I read the "Twilight Saga" and "The Millennium Trilogy" in the wee hours of the morning. There is something so comforting about being engrossed in a story while everyone else is fast asleep.

Charitable Donations make the best gifts

2011-02-15T16:45:00.002-05:00

Nothing says 'I love you' on Valentine's day quite like a charitable donation made in your name. This year, I got a blue footed booy and I LOVE IT. The World Wildlife Fund has 100's of animals you can adopt. We love this organization and its cause. P and I also make donations to our local Humane Society, which is where he adopted the cats. Spread the love and make a donation to the charity of your choice!

fifteen - car washes

2011-02-15T11:52:00.002-05:00

getting the car washed

There is nothing more fabulous than when the car is filthy and you finally get it washed; it sparkles and you hardly recognize it's yours. Don't forget the undercarriage either!!

fourteen - Mark Twain

2011-02-14T12:42:00.009-05:00

Mark Twain:

(Photo: The New York Times Photo Archives)

His Autobiography is fascinating! I highly recommend reading it.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T12:34:00.003-05:00

Nothing says 'I love you' like Hooter's wings and Canadian 'domestic' beer. Happy Valentine's Day!

thirteen - sepia tone photos

2011-02-13T10:48:00.008-05:00

sepia tone photos:

New York City, from an airplane - 12/22/2010

El Lechero, Ecuador - March 2008

twelve - The Standard Baking

2011-02-12T23:32:00.006-05:00

The Standard Baking in Portland, Maine is the best bakery ever, and I adore it insanely.

eleven - the power of people

2011-02-11T14:56:00.008-05:00

the power of people

(a story about Egyptian Christians protecting their praying Muslim countrymen)

How amazing for the people of Egypt.

(source: economist.com)

I've been watching their celebration all day and it makes me so insanely humble and excited. Passionate and active people are such an inspiration.

ten - CNN International

2011-02-10T14:24:00.008-05:00

(from CNN.com)

CNN International - not regular old CNN, but the version you see outside the U.S. and possibly the version at airports but most definitely the kind you see in other countries. I still watch CNN, but I most definitely love, love, love the international version best.

nine - blueberries

2011-02-09T16:51:00.007-05:00

BLUEBERRIES

in every and any way possible, including milk.

eight - gin

2011-02-08T16:50:00.003-05:00

gin, especially with grapefruit juice:

seven - Maine

2011-02-07T16:45:00.003-05:00

MAINE

Scarborough Beach, Maine

(photo credit: Privatjokr)

six - our cats

2011-02-06T16:33:00.004-05:00

Our cats:

five - "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele

2011-02-05T16:20:00.006-05:00

Adele's Song "Rolling in the Deep"

four - sewing

2011-02-04T16:16:00.005-05:00

Sewing:

Baby Ben's quilt

three - Muddy Butters

2011-02-03T15:58:00.002-05:00

Butterscotch Peanut Butter Muddy Buddies:

two - my friends

2011-02-02T15:48:00.004-05:00

my friends:

While this list includes a plethora of people I truly love, the photo pictured here was one I had handy. I still love the rest of you.

one - my love

2011-02-01T15:46:00.002-05:00

My love:

Welcome February

2011-02-01T15:07:00.003-05:00

Aloha dear February. As stated before, I very much enjoy this pretty pink month. And in honor of the month of love and because I need something to do, there will be 28 days of things I love.

Resolution for 2011

2011-01-01T17:03:00.000-05:00

Cultivate a positive attitude of gratitude.

Home Ec by The Freckled Nest

2010-08-11T22:13:00.002-04:00

I have finally taken my sewing machine out of the box. It's been sitting there since Christmas. Inspiration came from The Freckled Nest's online class, which includes 26 projects. Wish me luck making a mighty fun mess!

Summer Television

2010-08-06T16:22:00.003-04:00

This summer, I've been indulging in some very fun tv courtesy of USA:

'COVERT AFFAIRS':

'WHITE COLLAR':

and of course the tried and true, my favorite, 'BURN NOTICE':

And courtesy of TNT, 'Rizzoli & Isles'

Florence and the Machine: The Dog Days are Over

2010-08-06T16:15:00.005-04:00

MY SUMMER SONG:

thank you covert affairs for the introduction.

Stars over Cotopaxi

2010-08-01T13:45:00.003-04:00

An amazing time lapsed video of stars over Cotopaxi, a volcano in Ecuador near where I used to live.

2010-07-04T14:34:00.000-04:00

Dad's 50th

2010-06-29T13:58:00.002-04:00

Castles in the Sky

2010-06-28T12:40:00.002-04:00

original photo taken by Miss Sunshine. Quoted & edited by Miss Cupcake.

Six Months Engaged

2010-06-25T10:13:00.006-04:00

If all works out, I'll be standing on one of the cliffs seen in the new background when I marry Mr. Brownie Sundae :)

"The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane" - Katherine Howe

2010-04-26T12:12:00.001-04:00

"Connie watched Liz talk, enjoying the sound of a voice other than her own filling the house's dour rooms. When circulating in the Marblehead world-buying groceries, visiting archives, picking up a coffee- she engaged in brushes of conversation, her solitude briefly rubbing up against the presence of other people before retreating again to the isolated cavern of Granna's house. Sometimes she would look down to discover Arlo in her lap, his brown gaze reminding her that she had not spoken in several hours."

"I was also drawn to Deliverance's story by my sympathy with the New England legacy of difficult, and sometimes overly bookish, women."

- Katherine Howe

"Committed" ~ Elizabeth Gilbert

2010-03-09T15:35:00.002-05:00

"No matter how modest or trivial or serious the pillow talk, such hushed hours belong exclusively to the two people who are sharing them with each other. What passes between a couple alone in the dark is the very definition of the word, "privacy." And I'm talking not just about sex here but about its far more subversive aspect: intimacy. Every couple in the world has the potential over time to become a small isolated nation of two-creating their own culture, their own language, and their own moral code, to which nobody else can be privy."
~E. Gilbert

The Chair

2009-08-12T14:30:00.005-04:00

When I lived in Quito, I spent a lot of time in this chair. I was usually reading, writing, organizing or watching the BBC's 'Sea of Souls'. If I wasn't out with my friends, I was attacking paper with a vengeance rather uncomfortably in this spot. Saturday afternoons were spent listening to James Blunt while writing away. Afternoons, weekends, nights....

I can't even listen to those cds any more. I can't sit still long enough to capture thoughts in the way I used to. There are many a days I wish I could sit in a chair and try to get it all down on paper.

Hard Lessons

2009-08-07T18:00:00.003-04:00

I very much dislike when people say "it's the little things" that matter most. I actually can't stand this concept because I believe IT'S EVERYTHING. Absolutely every little bit including the good, bad, big, small, important, trivial; Every little thing makes up your world and each and every detail matters. From the lunch you eat, the questions you ask or answer, the emails you send, the hugs you give or don't give, to the delete button you accidentally pushed on a file that contained every bit of your written life since you were in high school. The aggregate of events and actions, big or small, is your life. So don't say it's the "little things" because it's EVERYTHING.

If you don't believe me, ask a woman whose husband just died or a child whose parent is no longer on this earth. Big AND little moments matter.

I've learned some hard lessons in the last few weeks because I have not been paying attention. I accidentally deleted a folder with an excel workbook titled "medley of goodness", which included everything I've ever written as well as items from high school I was adding from notebooks I used to write in. It appears the file is unrecoverable. ($45 later) I'm still pondering what to do next. If only I could go back and undelete that action...However, that is not an available option. I was given the advice to save everything in multiple places. That isn't how I roll. So we'll see what is next or what I'll do about my 'medley of goodness' going forward. Important lesson: PAY ATTENTION TO EVERYTHING YOU ARE DOING.

I've also had the sad situation of losing long time family friends to another person. All I can say is daggers. Just plain old medieval English daggers. That is all I have to say about that. Important lesson: LET GO EVEN IF IT HURTS.

I've learned to mind myself with the car as I accidentally left it in power mode overnight and had to jump it. I spent a day learning about Volvo batteries and reading the owner's manual (Yes, I read manuals). Did you know they put batteries in the cargo space in the trunk??? Weird! If only the recycling containers had not stolen my attention... Important lesson: FOCUS ON ONE THING AT A TIME. DON'T BE EASILY DISTRACTED. AND OF COURSE: PAY ATTENTION. Multi-tasking is not your friend. Don't be deceived.

Another hard lesson I learned is what it feels like to be number two. I was warned about this previously but hadn't really thought about it, as the cautioning was a long time ago. Then the thought dawned on me while standing in the kitchen eating a double tomato basil pizza veggie burger. I now have a new understanding of 'best friend'. Important lesson: ACCEPT THINGS FOR WHAT THEY ARE AND FOR WHAT THEY ARE NOT.

I'd write more but I have to go try to buy a mini book from Elise. I missed out last time because I couldn't decide on a book and they were gone before I could get one. Some situations require that you DON'T HESITATE - another lesson.

Now go pay attention to EVERYTHING before the rest of the day is lost.

SPARKLER ART

2009-07-09T11:58:00.006-04:00

Here is some sparkler art from the 4th of July. All photos courtesy of Peter.

I heart sparklers :)

Air Mail

2009-06-11T13:56:00.006-04:00

There is a letter coming my way now any day. The purple marker squiggles across the ten double sided pages will be familiar. I know the girl who wrote those words and have a faint recollection of the thoughtfully written advice she administered across those bright white pages a year ago. I often wonder what that girl would say if she knew what I've done (and not done) this year. Will she be disappointed? Happy? Glad? Worried? Anxious? Encouraging? Loving? Is she going to kick my ass for being grumpy, lazy, and sad for the first part of my return? I can hear her now faintly whispering in the back of my mind. As each day gets closer and closer to her words arriving in my mail box, I get more and more anxious. I have a feeling she's going to be mad at me. I have a feeling she's going to make me cry. But I also know she's going to forgive me and offer some much needed inspiration. After all, it's her expectations with which I've had difficulty dealing.

Her twelve months of patiently sitting on a shelf are coming to a close.

I also wonder about the messenger as it quite possibly could be hand delivered by a kindred soul I no doubt would want to hug.

Regardless of the delivery method of my air mail, I know it's coming. I can hear it.

I'm over here for now....

2009-03-11T11:52:00.004-04:00

For the time being, I'm over here. I needed a change of scenery.

Times are a Changing

2009-03-06T15:16:00.002-05:00

MSN.com featured a great article today about how Americans are changing the way they shop. The article highlighted changes in fundamental American life that will lead to some interesting trends in the future. Very englightening. Check it out and let me know what you think.

Umeployed - Want to Get Away???

2009-03-04T17:27:00.002-05:00

So you're unemployed and need something to do until you find a job?? I stumbled upon an article and slide show at Travel + Leisure. I wish I had found it when I had three months of free time.... Very interesting ideas.

The Story Of Stuff

2009-03-04T09:55:00.006-05:00

Courtesy of my friends at Two Girls Go Green, I found one of the most enlightening yet disturbing presentations I've ever seen. Do yourself a favor and get an education by watching The Story of Stuff right now.

Photo from agreenSpan.org

(It wouldn't hurt you to read that story either.)

Year of Reading Dangerously - March

2009-03-03T10:11:00.004-05:00

This month's pick for my challenge:

"Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson

Review - "The Spy Who Came In From The Cold"

2009-03-03T09:30:00.002-05:00

The prospect of reading this book excited me tremendously. I couldn't wait to dive into a story about which everyone raved. I picked it for my February Reading Dangerously Challenge. Unfortunately, the novel left me disappointed. I found the plot with its twists and interwoven characters to be confusing at times. All of this was sorted out by the end but I found myself saying, "that is all???" The characters were not as intriguing as I had hoped, the action was typical of this genre and the end was anticlimactic. Le Carré's famous work was rather predictable for me, which is probably why I didn't enjoy it as much as others did. I'd say it was a more mediocre read if this type of fiction piques your interest. Unfortunately, I was unimpressed and have very little to write about this mediocre book.

There was one quotation I really liked from the story:

"Everywhere that air of conspiracy which generates among people who have been up since dawn- of superiority almost, from the common experience of having seen the night disappear and the morning come. The staff had that look which is informed by the mystery of dawn and animated by the cold and they treated the passengers and their luggage with the remoteness of men returned from the front: ordinary mortals had nothing for them that morning."

10 Things From Your Mom/Dad/parent's Kitchen

2009-02-26T11:44:00.002-05:00

I was reading The Kitchn today when I came across a very endearing post about a mom's kitchen. The author took pictures of her 10 favorite things in her mother's kitchen and then wrote a little note saying why she loved them. Of course her reminiscing prompted me to consider what items I love in my parent's kitchen, however, I could only think of two items I love: my mom's cookie cutters and her Betty Crocker recipe book. Honorable mention might go to the ancient bean pot without a lid. This might prompt me to think differently about their kitchen the next time I shuffle through the cupboards.

Do you know what ten things you love about your parent's kitchen??

If I was a frivolous girl...

2009-02-26T11:19:00.007-05:00

I don't really like wearing bracelets despite the collection I have in my bathroom. I think they look weird on my wrist because I have tiny hands. They are like cabbage patch hands, which means I rarely wear bracelets or giant rings- they looks funny and almost cartoonish. My small hand anatomy kind of makes me sad because I love fun bracelets especially charm bracelets, and crazy vibrant cocktail rings. I'd love a fun charm bracelet but I would never wear it so I don't have one nor could I justify the purchase. This being said, my interest was piqued today as I was perusing my litany of items on Google Reader and came across a wonderfully pretty thing:

from Tiffany.

I have two necklaces with similar charms but I had no idea how many charms they actually had nor did I know you could wear them on your necklaces. Now, if I was a frivolous girl, I'd considering buying a great deal of them to amass a giant collection of lovely charms. Especially the seasonal ones. However, the good accountant/economist in me knows better and takes delight in her orange savings account instead. But aren't they pretty?

Changing of the Guard

2009-02-24T10:25:00.004-05:00

Unfortunately, this post is going to have a melancholy tone and it's my 600th post. Sorry friends.

Today I went to the local Secretary of State here in my new Midwestern municipality to get a driver's license because the insurance lady yelled at me. Well, not really but she was stern in her voice mail. I knew I had to do it, and have been reluctantly dragging my feet because, well I really didn't want to part with my little plastic piece of New England. I discovered today exactly how much I identify myself with my home state just as she punched a big ol' hole in my old driver's license and handed me my new temporary one. I've never had another state's piece of plastic. The entire transaction saddened me. They even made me put my middle name on it. I really, really violently dislike my middle name. I look forward to getting rid of it someday, but in the meantime, the lady insisted it had to be on there. Sigh....

I've always been a staunch, stoic New Englander who is rather passionate and patriotic about her roots. I realize that idea is kind of an oxymoron but it's the truth. Ironically, I might not be here if I wasn't proud to be an east coast girl. The majority of my character is a result of where I grew up, and I hold that place near and dear to my heart. It's who I am. However, I would be lying if I said I thought I would end up there. I did not believe it would always be my residence. I guess I just wasn't prepared to give up the official square declaring it so.

I also realized geographic and plastic have very little to do with identity. I'll always be a New Englander because it's in my heart. Besides, I could never call Coca Cola "pop". Sorry folks, it's soda where I come from. Yet, that all being said. I look forward to getting to know the new locale, as I firmly believe every place has its charms. I anticipate slowly being charmed by my new residence even if I'm a little sad for a bit.

Get Down On It, Mad Money Style

2009-02-17T09:38:00.005-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, Peter bought me a new toy to make the work day more exciting:
It is shiny and purple and I love it. I have to say though, it kind of makes me feel like Katie Holmes' character, Jackie Truman, from the movie "Mad Money". She's the girl "armed with an iPod" who walks around dancing and singing ("Put your hands up!") to herself while she works... or speaking obscure foreign languages in my case.

(This isn't really the best picture of her dancing away her doldrums but it is the best I could find. It wouldn't hurt to see the movie, then you could get the full affect. The story is quite entertaining.)

The office is far more exciting now even though I have to shut my door on occasion to practice my moves so I'm a cool as she is.

Very cool Idea

2009-02-11T12:16:00.001-05:00

Today, I stumbled upon a blog that creatively left a message for an unborn child. 1001 Rules For My Unborn Son is an inspiring way to communicate with a child. The idea, pictures, and lessons are noteworthy. I love stuff like this. I think you will like it, too.

Money Tips from MSN.com

2009-02-06T16:51:00.003-05:00

Today, I stumbled upon this article through msn.com. I thought it was very interesting and therefore, am sharing it here. Also, last week I opened an INGdirect orange savings account. It was super easy and awesome. I highly recommend getting one. It's as easy as signing up at INGdirect.com.

"7 Smart Ways to Buy Happiness

Money may be tight, but that doesn't mean you have to stop spending altogether. Rather, use these tips to get the most joy for your cash.
By MP Dunleavey

After the supercharged spending spree so many Americans have been on these past few years, using your money to buy a happier, more satisfying way of life turns out to be the wisest move you could make.

Here's why: Countless studies have shown that most humans fail to realize what makes them happy. Typically, we spend on short-term glitz instead of long-term satisfaction. And that often leads to misery -- not to mention loads of debt.

Right now, we all need to make a giant U-turn. When money's tight, it's vital to spend in a way that yields the biggest payoff, emotionally as well as financially. Buying more stuff just won't do it.

What follows are seven ways you can use your wallet to turn around your life and your finances. (That's a big promise, but I wouldn't say it if I hadn't experienced it myself.)

1. Relationships

Friends, Romans, countrymen, kids and spousal units: Studies indicate we're happiest when we feel connected to others. People with strong relationships tend to be happier and healthier, and live longer on average, according to psychologist Martin Seligman and many other researchers.

Buy a Porsche or go fishing?

How can you invest more in these bonds of family and friendship? Splurge on a plane ticket to see your best friend. Get your buddies together and buy season tickets to your favorite team -- or the opera. Treat a friend to dinner.

After all, what would really make your month -- another pair of shoes from Piperlime or spending time with someone you love?

2. Time

Would you trade some of the money you make to have more time? A survey by Fortune magazine indicated most people would. Time is one asset that always seems to be in short supply; a free hour or two (or an unexpected day off) can feel like a windfall.

To buy yourself some time:

* As part of a raise or promotion, ask for additional time off.

* Explore flex-time options. A surprising number of companies support flexible work programs.

* Consider paying others to do the chores you loathe because they eat up your time, from hiring a teen to do yardwork to paying a pro to do your taxes, paint the kitchen or organize the garage.

For a little bit of money, you can regain a chunk of your life.

3. Health

Some good health can be chalked up to genetics, but a lot of the rest is lifestyle. And buying good health is a lot like investing in the stock market: Steady investments at regular intervals are the best way to see big gains.

A few suggestions: Pay a bit more to join the gym that's closer to where you work, so you'll actually use it. Shell out for biweekly acupuncture visits. Buy the pricier healthful meal instead the Happy Meal. And take your vitamins.

4. Learning

Humans are born to grow. Research by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (pronounced "CHIK-sent-mee-high"), who created the concept of "flow" -- the state of wholly contented absorption in a task -- suggests we are often happiest when engaged in activities that challenge us and hold our focus.

You've been there: when you played in that garage band, when you went scuba diving on vacation, when you determinedly embarked on "War and Peace" and then couldn't put it down. Put your money there.

Buy the damn compact disc set so you can brush up on your Mandarin. Join the local archaeology club and do local digs. Try rock climbing. Or put away your air guitar and restart that garage band. You don't need to spend much to notice the uptick in sheer joie de vivre.

5. Debt relief

Owing money downgrades your quality of life, creating so much stress that it may even make you sick or depressed, according to some studies.

Keeping your money emotions in check

Stop viewing your credit card bills as bad news; instead, treat them like updates on an underperforming asset class. By doubling or tripling your monthly payments, cutting back spending and doing everything in your power to bring your debts down to zero, you won't just be paying a bill -- you'll be increasing your own net worth.

Need a hand? MSN Money is packed with get-out-of-debt brilliance.

6. Giveaways

A surprise benefit of giving to others, or to a cause you believe in, is how good it makes you feel.

Studies show that altruism not only tickles the feel-good centers in the brain, but it also creates a sense of social bonding and mutual support that enhances your personal well-being.

You don't have to give millions to get that payoff. The most important thing isn't whether you spend money or volunteer time or contribute goods, but that whatever you share -- and however you share it -- means a lot to you.

Read to kids after school; bring canned food to a shelter; contact Kiva and help a South African woman build her business. There are countless ways to give. Just pick one that makes you happy.

7. Security

In an economic crisis like this one, it's tempting to stop putting money aside for the long term, but taking the reins of your future will make you feel more in control now and will beef up that cushion you might need someday.

Investing in . . . investing

A first step is to sign up for your company retirement plan (many Americans don't) or open an individual retirement account. At some companies, such as Fidelity, you can open an account with very little money as long as you set up automatic contributions.

Retirement is a huge topic, you can read more here at MSN Money. Making small, steady investments now can create double happiness: peace of mind now and greater wealth down the road.

Here's the real magic: When you start putting more money toward life (and less toward stuff), that shift quickly turns your financial picture from upside down to right side up. You spend less, but get more -- and in feeling more satisfied, reduce your desire to spend.

The net effect is more money saved, less debt and a sense of financial control and well-being -- oh, and more happiness. Now that's what I call getting your money's worth."

Review - "Gilead" by Marilynne Robinson

2009-02-06T12:55:00.004-05:00

I picked this book as my January Reading Dangerously challenge and was kind of dreading reading it because of the religious aspect presented in the story. Overcoming my dread was easy, I picked up the book and started reading and was immediately glad I did. Marilynne Robinson's words were incredible. I have no idea how she managed to genuinely depict the tone and voice of a 76 year old man but she did so very convincingly. I look forward to checking out her other novels after finishing this one.

Reverend John Ames is writing a journal to his seven year old son. His aim is to leave his son something that can be reflected and looked back upon to remember and to guide after he is gone. While Reverend Ames tried very hard to be a source of wisdom and insight, he could not help but use the journal to reflect upon his life as it comes to a close. He used his words to deal with family, loss, life, religion, questions -all the unfinished cobwebs lost in the depths of his mind. The manner in which the main character delves into each issue is astoundingly and tenderly authentic. I was moved by his sincerity and his deep desire to understand and to be honest and good. His task was not an easy one, I imagine. I loved how he was a minister and true to his faith but constantly was human and fallible. His struggle to be mortal while following the path of God was commendable. Robinson manages to keep the character humble and meaningful in light of his spirituality.

The Reverend wants his son to have imagines, explanations, and bits of him. I enjoyed every minute of his thought process as he pondered how to express himself to his child. The story was well crafted and thought provoking. I also felt this piece of work ended peacefully. As the reader, I was left wondering if his son or wife would read the journal and how it would influence their memory of him once he perished. Very thought provoking and interesting and a nice deviation from the my normal reading.

Another point that stuck with me involves the setting of the novel in the late 1800s and early to mid-1900s. The simplicity of the Reverend's life is enviable. His problems and contemplations are real but the sheer ease of his daily life where the only distraction is his thoughts is amazing to me. I often long for that kind of life where the distractions are limited and the senses are heightened. A place where one cannot escape imagination, contemplation or nature. For example, Reverend Ames describes how much pride his mother took in how white her laundry was because the women were jugged by their laundry lines. A mark of the times, yes, but still it shows how priorities and pride were hard work and effort not the latest gadget or gizmo. I found the interactions remarkable and uncomplicated. His descriptions of the times still linger in my mind.

Quotations I enjoyed:

"And Old Boughton, if he could stand up out of his chair, out of his decrepitude and crankiness and sorrow and limitation, would abandon all those handsome children of his, mild and confident as they are, and follow after that one son whom he has never known, whom he has favored as one does a wound, and he would protect him as a father cannot, and defend him with a strength he does not have, sustain him with a bounty beyond any resource he could ever dream of having. If Boughton could be himself, he would utterly pardon every transgression, past, present, and to come, whether or not it was a transgression in fact or his to pardon. He would be that extravagant. That is a thing I would love to see." Reverend Ames

"There is no justice in love, no proportion in it, and there need not be, because in any specific instance it is only a glimpse or parable of an embracing, incomprehensible reality. It makes not sense at all because it is the eternal breaking in on the temporal. so how could it subordinate itself to cause or consequence? It is worth living long enough to outlast whatever sense of grievance you may acquire. Another reason why you must be careful of your health." Reverend Ames

Year of Reading Dangerously - February

2009-02-01T21:25:00.005-05:00

This month's pick for my monthly challege:

"The Spy Who Came In From the Cold" by John Le Carre

Year of Reading Dangerously - January

2009-01-13T15:20:00.004-05:00

I think I am going to participate in the Reading Dangerously Challenge. Instead of writing a list of 12 books for the year, I am going to determine my choices monthly. I have a tentative list, but it is more than 12 books, so I want to see how I'm feeling when it is time to choose. For the month of January, I am going to read Gilead, by Marilynne Robinson. I'll post a review as soon as I'm finished.

Thoughts

2009-01-05T13:44:00.003-05:00

Today, I wish 'we' could sit at the table with a mug of something, play cards, and talk about everything and anything.

I think mostly I don't know what to do with this insecure and fearful girl these last six months.

Hence the lack of words across this blog. They are here, I just get scared to write them because sometimes they sound very lame to me. Maybe I'll get out the crayolas....

Ode to 2008

2008-12-29T12:12:00.005-05:00

I realize I'm jumping the gun on this silly little thing by three days, but since I did it for 2006 and 2007, I thought I would make it a tradition by honoring 2008. I also figured nothing too noteworthy would happen in the next three days that would change my answers. Happy New Year!

1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?
I moved to Michigan to live with the boy I adore beyond all reason.

2. Did you keep your New Year’s resolutions?
I do not believe I made any last year.

3. What countries did you visit?
Ecuador

4. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
I would like a job and a very large emergency fund.

5. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
March 4th because Sly came to Ecuador and make my world there tremendously better
July 2nd because La Liga won the Los Libertadores Championship and I was in Quito to celebrate
July 3rd because I arrived home to the US after 10 months in Ecuador
September 10th because Peter asked me to move in with him
October 4th because I arrived in Michigan, which became "home"
November 17th and December 14th because I realized how much he cares about me.

6. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
I completed my service in Ecuador. I also painted my parent's front porch red with my dad. It looks gooood.

7. What was your biggest failure?
Not having realistic expectations about my return and reintegration into life back home after spending 10 months living in South America. It has been much harder than I anticipated.

8. Did you suffer illness or injury?
I had amoebas, parasites, and an upper respiratory infection while in Ecuador. I also had a rash on my stomach that refused to go away, even when I came home. Hot huh? It eventually healed.

9. What was the best thing you bought?
The only thing I bought for myself this year was pants in May. Nothing else all year. So I have to say I did not succeed in this category.

10. Whose behavior merited celebration?
Peter's, Erin's, and Sunshine's

11. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
no one really

12. Where did most of your money go?
What money? This was the worst financial year to date. I'd rather not talk about it.

13. What song will always remind you of 2008?
Anything by Celine Dion, a plethora of reggaeton songs, "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz, and Beyoncé's "Single Ladies (Put a ring on it) ~ I just started bouncing in my chair.

14. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) Happier or sadder? the same
b) Thinner or fatter? thinner
c) Richer or poorer? drastically poorer. Hence the desire for a VERY LARGE emergency fund.

15. What do you wish you’d done more of?
I wish I wouldn't have worried as much. As my aunt says, "You can't get blood from a turnip." I wish I would have spent more time doing things I wanted to do like reading books, baking, watching movies, writing letters, volunteering, etc. I know my parents, aunt, and Peter all encouraged me to spend my captive "free" time doing productive things because I probably won't have time like this again, but I just couldn't get out of my head. I am working on it.

16. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Worrying and wasting time

17. How did you spend Christmas?
In the candle light with Peter's family. It was an old fashioned Christmas because we didn't have power. Lots of card games, snacking, and just hanging out.

18. Did you fall in love in 2008?
It was more like rekindled love. Cheesy I know, but I'm happy.

19. How many one-night stands?
That would be zero.

20. What was your favorite TV program?
Burn Notice, NCIS, Iron Chef America, The Martha Stewart Show, and The Rachael Ray Show, Anything on Food Network really

21. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
nope

22. What was the best book you read?
"A Thousand Splendid Suns" by Khaled Hosseini

23. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Jason Mraz and whatever my love sent my way

24. What did you want and get?
Well, I finally managed to win the affections of a boy I've had my eyes on for a very long time. I also lost all the weight I gained in Ecuador. That was awesome.

25. What did you want and not get?
A job

26. What was your favorite film of this year?
Wall-E

27. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
Peter sang to me at midnight and then my mom sang after him. I had a quiet day with my parents. Mamita made me blueberry bread and they bought me some awesome sneakers I really wanted. It's was my "golden birthday".

28. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Finding a job

29. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
There's always next year.

30. What kept you sane?
My people. The cats and Peter.

31. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Bobby Flay

32. What political issue stirred you the most?
The elections

33. Who did you miss?
My friends and family

34. Who is the best new person you met?
Wil and Kate

35. Tell us some valuable life lessons you learned in 2008.
Have a back up plan.

36. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
"Maybe this year will be better than the last." Counting Crows, Long December

Quotations

2008-12-28T14:24:00.001-05:00

"It took a long time, but I've finally figured it out. When it comes to men who are romantically interested in you, it's really simple. Just ignore everything they say and only pay attention to what they do."
~ a Colleague of Dr. Pausch and the advice he leaves to his daughter, Chloe.

The Last Lecture