I'm heading off to Camp Crop-A-Lot. We only got a fraction of the snow predicted -- somewhere around 4 inches instead of 10. My wonderful hubby took care of that so the only thing holding up my departure is me and my inability to get my "crop" together.
My checklist includes everything from a sleeping bag and pillow to caffiene and sugar (in the form of chocolate and licorice in my case). Oh yeah, and the scrapbooking supplies. I had to make a quick run into town to pick up a few things I was missing. Anything else comes up, I guess I'll buy it there.
I did manage to do a quick vacuum of the house so I could mitigate some of the guilt for taking off on a completely selfish weekend. And that did the trick! I'm heading out the door without a care in the world....
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Catching Up
Just a couple updates from this week in the Austin world...
Student Driver: We went to a birthday party for our nephew Colin (the stockcar racer). He's 15 now. Soon he'll be old enough to drive! Isn't that something? Racing "real" cars for 3+ years now and finally he's getting close to being "street legal"? I bet his mother is concerned about his lead foot!
Sweet Nothings: And what's a birthday party without cake? Those who know me well know that -- neck and neck with my love for all things mint -- I have a weakness for cake with really, really good frosting. Birthday cake is the best. I'll take a corner piece, please. Or an edge one. The middle ones are hardly worth the effort (or guilt). So yes, that means I had cake AND a Shamrock Shake (hubby's Fat Tuesday treat for me) in the same week. I'm sure I'll burn off the calories cropping this weekend.
School Days: We finally heard some more school news for our senior. He had been on a waiting list for La Crosse but now has been accepted at 3 other state schools. That's a relief. Stepson #2 is still going to school regularly, thank God. He did have a bit of a setback this week when he injured his foot somehow in gym class. Nothing is broken, but now he's gotta wear a special boot of some sort. Not enough to keep him home, hopefully.
Baseball, Hotdogs and Candy Bars: We signed Carter up for baseball this week. Even after the Bad News Bears experience last summer, Jim has agreed to coach again. He knows now to eye up the pitching talent first. Should be interesting. Our first order of business was selling the box of candy bars for the league fundraiser. Thanks to my ingenious marketing campaign (ha, ha), I had 40 of the 50 sold in one day. I only bought one, honest.
Tooth Fairy: You'd think the Austins had stock in the Tooth Fairy business. Carter had his second visit from the winged wonder this week. "Now I've got hillbilly teeth!" he said. Nice. We both go for our 6-month checkup and cleaning today. At the rate we're going, our dentist will have a new SUV before long.
Perfect Game: I'd like to give a shout out to our friend Mike, who bowled a 300 this week! I've done that before, too, but it's taken me 3 games (combined) to get there! It's not often we have a brush with greatness, so we stopped by last night with a congratulatory 12-pack decorated with bowling stickers. Good job!
Stitch in Time: Not to ruin my reputation as an undomestic goddess, but I was actually domestic on demand this week. Of course, it was bedtime when Carter thought to show me a big tear in the jeans he planned to wear the next day. "Mom, can you knit these for me?" Well even I know you can't knit jeans. But I do have my little sewing kit and I was able to stitch the tear. I suppose I should mention that because I was sewing in dim light while watching the president's speech, I didn't do the best job. The stitching just about held up for a school day, but not quite. There, now my reputation is restored.
Winter Wonder-what-the-? Is it too late to change my mind about giving something up for Lent? I think I'd like to give up Winter if I can! On Wednesday, we got hit with freezing rain/sleet in central Wisconsin. Today's forecast: 6-10 inches of snow. I wish I was kidding. Looks like I'll have to snowblow myself out tomorrow morning before I head to scrap camp!
Pack Mule: I have been working in my "free time" this week to get my crop together. Oh wait, I really did mean crap that time. Lots of prep work goes into this weekend. I'm getting excited though and can't wait to get going. I have Friday off so hopefully, depending on the weather, I can hit the road by noon and give myself 3-4 extra hours of scrapping this year. I should have no excuses not to reach my goal of finishing my 2007 book and getting a good start on 2008. I know, it's 2009 already so it seems like I'll never really catch up. But then what would I do with all my time?
Student Driver: We went to a birthday party for our nephew Colin (the stockcar racer). He's 15 now. Soon he'll be old enough to drive! Isn't that something? Racing "real" cars for 3+ years now and finally he's getting close to being "street legal"? I bet his mother is concerned about his lead foot!
Sweet Nothings: And what's a birthday party without cake? Those who know me well know that -- neck and neck with my love for all things mint -- I have a weakness for cake with really, really good frosting. Birthday cake is the best. I'll take a corner piece, please. Or an edge one. The middle ones are hardly worth the effort (or guilt). So yes, that means I had cake AND a Shamrock Shake (hubby's Fat Tuesday treat for me) in the same week. I'm sure I'll burn off the calories cropping this weekend.
School Days: We finally heard some more school news for our senior. He had been on a waiting list for La Crosse but now has been accepted at 3 other state schools. That's a relief. Stepson #2 is still going to school regularly, thank God. He did have a bit of a setback this week when he injured his foot somehow in gym class. Nothing is broken, but now he's gotta wear a special boot of some sort. Not enough to keep him home, hopefully.
Baseball, Hotdogs and Candy Bars: We signed Carter up for baseball this week. Even after the Bad News Bears experience last summer, Jim has agreed to coach again. He knows now to eye up the pitching talent first. Should be interesting. Our first order of business was selling the box of candy bars for the league fundraiser. Thanks to my ingenious marketing campaign (ha, ha), I had 40 of the 50 sold in one day. I only bought one, honest.
Tooth Fairy: You'd think the Austins had stock in the Tooth Fairy business. Carter had his second visit from the winged wonder this week. "Now I've got hillbilly teeth!" he said. Nice. We both go for our 6-month checkup and cleaning today. At the rate we're going, our dentist will have a new SUV before long.
Perfect Game: I'd like to give a shout out to our friend Mike, who bowled a 300 this week! I've done that before, too, but it's taken me 3 games (combined) to get there! It's not often we have a brush with greatness, so we stopped by last night with a congratulatory 12-pack decorated with bowling stickers. Good job!
Stitch in Time: Not to ruin my reputation as an undomestic goddess, but I was actually domestic on demand this week. Of course, it was bedtime when Carter thought to show me a big tear in the jeans he planned to wear the next day. "Mom, can you knit these for me?" Well even I know you can't knit jeans. But I do have my little sewing kit and I was able to stitch the tear. I suppose I should mention that because I was sewing in dim light while watching the president's speech, I didn't do the best job. The stitching just about held up for a school day, but not quite. There, now my reputation is restored.
Winter Wonder-what-the-? Is it too late to change my mind about giving something up for Lent? I think I'd like to give up Winter if I can! On Wednesday, we got hit with freezing rain/sleet in central Wisconsin. Today's forecast: 6-10 inches of snow. I wish I was kidding. Looks like I'll have to snowblow myself out tomorrow morning before I head to scrap camp!
Pack Mule: I have been working in my "free time" this week to get my crop together. Oh wait, I really did mean crap that time. Lots of prep work goes into this weekend. I'm getting excited though and can't wait to get going. I have Friday off so hopefully, depending on the weather, I can hit the road by noon and give myself 3-4 extra hours of scrapping this year. I should have no excuses not to reach my goal of finishing my 2007 book and getting a good start on 2008. I know, it's 2009 already so it seems like I'll never really catch up. But then what would I do with all my time?
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Give Up?
The Lenten season is officially upon us. I should probably make it clear that I was raised Lutheran so I didn't grow up with this routine of giving up something for 40 days and 40 nights. Though I will capitalize on any opportunity for a Friday night Fish Fry.
I actually jumped on the deprivation bandwagon a few years ago because everyone else was doing it. Seriously, I am not knocking this important ritual. I am just admitting at the outset that I do my best during Lent and feel God recognizes my effort. I have a spiritual connection with my Higher Power every day -- and I don't think that changes because I break down and have a Shamrock Shake on St. Patrick's Day. But that's just me. I'm not starting a religious controversy here.
So Carter asked me the other day if I was going to do the "swear board" again. "Remember last year when you had to pay for swear words and f-bombs?" Oh nice. This kid doesn't forget anything! I told him I probably wasn't going to do that this year because the anti-sailor talk has been an ongoing effort (I feel Jim rolling his eyes).
Carter announced that he is going to follow that pay-to-play tally-board format, though. "I am going to pay if I play my PS2 or Nintendo DS," he said. Wow. Giving up video games was his own idea and, trust me, that is a sacrifice. At first he said he was going to pay a dollar for playing PS2 and a dime for the DS, but now he's settled on a quarter each time for either. He hasn't decided what he is going to do with the money or, more importantly, where he's getting the money to pay for it (besides the Tooth Fairy). So I guess we'll hope his willpower and dedication are better than Mommy's.
I, on the other hand, grappled with my Lenten pledge. Frankly, with my current attempt to restrict myself from sweets, I've been in a state of deprivation all of 2009. So instead of taking something more away, I am going to add.
I am vowing to do 30 minutes of some cardio activity daily -- even if that has to be broken up over 3 10-minute walks during breaks some days. This will be my way to focus on healthy living and taking care of this beautiful body God gave me.
I suppose I could add that if I do break down and have a Shamrock Shake, I have to double my cardio time. Nah. I'll save that for next year...
I actually jumped on the deprivation bandwagon a few years ago because everyone else was doing it. Seriously, I am not knocking this important ritual. I am just admitting at the outset that I do my best during Lent and feel God recognizes my effort. I have a spiritual connection with my Higher Power every day -- and I don't think that changes because I break down and have a Shamrock Shake on St. Patrick's Day. But that's just me. I'm not starting a religious controversy here.
So Carter asked me the other day if I was going to do the "swear board" again. "Remember last year when you had to pay for swear words and f-bombs?" Oh nice. This kid doesn't forget anything! I told him I probably wasn't going to do that this year because the anti-sailor talk has been an ongoing effort (I feel Jim rolling his eyes).
Carter announced that he is going to follow that pay-to-play tally-board format, though. "I am going to pay if I play my PS2 or Nintendo DS," he said. Wow. Giving up video games was his own idea and, trust me, that is a sacrifice. At first he said he was going to pay a dollar for playing PS2 and a dime for the DS, but now he's settled on a quarter each time for either. He hasn't decided what he is going to do with the money or, more importantly, where he's getting the money to pay for it (besides the Tooth Fairy). So I guess we'll hope his willpower and dedication are better than Mommy's.I, on the other hand, grappled with my Lenten pledge. Frankly, with my current attempt to restrict myself from sweets, I've been in a state of deprivation all of 2009. So instead of taking something more away, I am going to add.
I am vowing to do 30 minutes of some cardio activity daily -- even if that has to be broken up over 3 10-minute walks during breaks some days. This will be my way to focus on healthy living and taking care of this beautiful body God gave me.
I suppose I could add that if I do break down and have a Shamrock Shake, I have to double my cardio time. Nah. I'll save that for next year...
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Fluffy Tuesday
It's Fat Tuesday today so you know what that means. It's our last chance to fluff up for Lent, when our guilty consciences force us to give up all those devilish delights we hold near and dear to our hearts (and waistline).
Hubby reported the other day that McDonald's already has Shamrock Shakes (which, in my book, rate a straw above the Eggnog Shakes I covet). I looked at him with that face that says, "Don't tempt me... but if you show up at home with one, I'd drink it because I have no willpower." In response, because he can read that look, he says, "Why do you always have to be on a diet at this time of year?"
You're right. It would be heckuva lot easier if I just lost weight once and never let it find me. Trust me, no one would rather be in that position than me!
So I find myself thinking (again!) that maybe I don't have to give up everything, just watch what I eat and maybe mix up my exercising a bit to re-ignite (or just ignite) my metabolism. I do try to alternate strength and cardio but there are all kinds of options out there for both.
Have you heard about kettlebells yet? A kettlebell is a traditional Russian cast-iron weight looking somewhat like a cannonball with a handle. For some reason the kettlebell has become a popular exercise tool in the United States due largely to the efforts of some influential strength and flexibility coach. I haven't seen this trend hit central Wisconsin yet, but we're usually a bit behind the times. (Heck, there are still acid-washed jean sightings around here.)
There is another new exercise trend -- in the name of making anything work for cardio -- that has popped up here. Hula hoops! Seriously, how did they come up with this? Let's take a childhood toy that gave us pleasure and turn it into an adult instrument for torture! And idiots like me, who will try anything to justify a Shamrock Shake, are trying it!
And oh do I feel sore today. We threw in a few hoop songs into our Zumba class yesterday to see if we liked it -- or even had the skills necessary to do it, let alone like it.
You wouldn't think hooping is hard work, but I'm here to tell ya, the new hooping is not just standing around gyrating our hips. No. We have to move around, too. Keep that (weighted) hoop going while taking a few steps in any direction and ohmigosh, is that tough! It's akin to that old challenge of patting your head while rubbing your stomach. It takes way too much coordination to be successful. But I gave it a good effort. And boy did we sweat.
So yes, it does have the exertion level to qualify as cardio. And yes, it does have the calorie-burning quotient to erase guilt and justify something chilly and mint green.
Oh, don't look at me that way. It's Fat Tuesday! Today we eat, drink and be merry. For tomorrow we may diet.
Hubby reported the other day that McDonald's already has Shamrock Shakes (which, in my book, rate a straw above the Eggnog Shakes I covet). I looked at him with that face that says, "Don't tempt me... but if you show up at home with one, I'd drink it because I have no willpower." In response, because he can read that look, he says, "Why do you always have to be on a diet at this time of year?"
You're right. It would be heckuva lot easier if I just lost weight once and never let it find me. Trust me, no one would rather be in that position than me!
So I find myself thinking (again!) that maybe I don't have to give up everything, just watch what I eat and maybe mix up my exercising a bit to re-ignite (or just ignite) my metabolism. I do try to alternate strength and cardio but there are all kinds of options out there for both.
Have you heard about kettlebells yet? A kettlebell is a traditional Russian cast-iron weight looking somewhat like a cannonball with a handle. For some reason the kettlebell has become a popular exercise tool in the United States due largely to the efforts of some influential strength and flexibility coach. I haven't seen this trend hit central Wisconsin yet, but we're usually a bit behind the times. (Heck, there are still acid-washed jean sightings around here.)
There is another new exercise trend -- in the name of making anything work for cardio -- that has popped up here. Hula hoops! Seriously, how did they come up with this? Let's take a childhood toy that gave us pleasure and turn it into an adult instrument for torture! And idiots like me, who will try anything to justify a Shamrock Shake, are trying it!
And oh do I feel sore today. We threw in a few hoop songs into our Zumba class yesterday to see if we liked it -- or even had the skills necessary to do it, let alone like it.
You wouldn't think hooping is hard work, but I'm here to tell ya, the new hooping is not just standing around gyrating our hips. No. We have to move around, too. Keep that (weighted) hoop going while taking a few steps in any direction and ohmigosh, is that tough! It's akin to that old challenge of patting your head while rubbing your stomach. It takes way too much coordination to be successful. But I gave it a good effort. And boy did we sweat.
So yes, it does have the exertion level to qualify as cardio. And yes, it does have the calorie-burning quotient to erase guilt and justify something chilly and mint green.
Oh, don't look at me that way. It's Fat Tuesday! Today we eat, drink and be merry. For tomorrow we may diet.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Best Part of Waking Up...
Remember that Folger's commercial where "the best part of waking up is Folger's in your cup"? That couldn't be said any better. A good cup of coffee is far better than waking up to cat puke on the carpet one morning and then cat poop on the carpet the next. It's far better than waking up feeling like a truck ran you over in your sleep -- just because your body can't handle the strain of occasional snow-blowing (two days ago!).
Groan. This has all the makings of a Monday. Good thing I am armed with a cup of survival juice.
Groan. This has all the makings of a Monday. Good thing I am armed with a cup of survival juice.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Supply Chain
It's been said "A clean desk is the sign of a sick mind." So when I look at my "craft room" -- a cross between a hurricane and a war zone -- I am put at ease knowing my mental health is completely intact.
I believe there are different levels of organization. And yes, I say that mostly to defend the conditions of the Scrap Cave (where I seek underground escape from reality to surround myself with the super-powers of creativity). Sure, I am ashamed that it looks like the remnants of Katrina. But I am a little smug that I can tell you where everything is located -- from a piece of paper with dragonflies to adhesive-backed buttons (which I actually needed today). So it's organized alright. Even if it's just an organized mess.
This came in handy today when Carter and I spent most of the afternoon working on a school project. He made these almost life-size cut-outs of a hobo and a spaceman that he will use to present a story he wrote. We cut holes where the faces should be so he can stick his face in there when he takes on that character. This was all his idea. Very cool. I was just a link in the supply chain.
We needed just the right papers, including a flannel "shirt" for the hobo and some holographic silver paper for the space dude, and of course, yarn for hair and the right adhesives to hold it all together.
Carter was in awe with my personalized craft store. "Wow, you have everything we could possibly need! It's like no matter what the project, my mom has the stuff!" He thanked me profusely and said it was a good thing I had everything "otherwise we'd have to be in the store 24/7 saying 'I need this... I need that... I need this...'"
Good point. Another reason I can't throw anything away. I'll just file it in my trusty organization system under "Someday."
I believe there are different levels of organization. And yes, I say that mostly to defend the conditions of the Scrap Cave (where I seek underground escape from reality to surround myself with the super-powers of creativity). Sure, I am ashamed that it looks like the remnants of Katrina. But I am a little smug that I can tell you where everything is located -- from a piece of paper with dragonflies to adhesive-backed buttons (which I actually needed today). So it's organized alright. Even if it's just an organized mess.
This came in handy today when Carter and I spent most of the afternoon working on a school project. He made these almost life-size cut-outs of a hobo and a spaceman that he will use to present a story he wrote. We cut holes where the faces should be so he can stick his face in there when he takes on that character. This was all his idea. Very cool. I was just a link in the supply chain.
We needed just the right papers, including a flannel "shirt" for the hobo and some holographic silver paper for the space dude, and of course, yarn for hair and the right adhesives to hold it all together.
Carter was in awe with my personalized craft store. "Wow, you have everything we could possibly need! It's like no matter what the project, my mom has the stuff!" He thanked me profusely and said it was a good thing I had everything "otherwise we'd have to be in the store 24/7 saying 'I need this... I need that... I need this...'"
Good point. Another reason I can't throw anything away. I'll just file it in my trusty organization system under "Someday."
Saturday, February 21, 2009
On My List: Tooth Fairy, Mother Nature
I'm a little miffed at the Tooth Fairy, who apparently is playing favorites. Last week I suffered through a painful extraction and didn't get diddly. Carter lost a tooth last night (granted, it was a two-parter) and he woke this morning to find a presidential dollar under his pillow. Hmmm.
I figured it was probably going to be one of those days where things weren't going to make sense.
Since we got at least 4 inches of snow overnight (grrr), I had to get on the treadmill this morning since I couldn't walk on the roads that were just clear last weekend. A little later I followed the plow into town so I could sign Carter up for soccer. That seemed a little strange. Hope the snow is gone by the first game in April!
Carter and I then went grocery shopping so I could whip together some chili in the crockpot for supper. Now that made more sense than thinking of shin guards and grass stains.
When we got home, it was apparent we'd have to do some snow removal at some point today. Jim was at work so I was weighing whether I should wait until he got home for some help -- or get motivated, do it and surprise him. The other option, which I did consider thoroughly, was going downstairs to scrapbook awhile and then hope the snow melted by the time I was done. Since we don't have a bathroom in the basement, I was pretty sure I wouldn't last until April, so I opted to just blow the darn snow. At least Carter shoveled off the front deck and steps so I did have some help.
After that I did descend to the Scrap Cave for the day, coming up for air only to make my picks on ESPN.com and to get supper together. I now have my cropping packets together -- well the pictures anyway -- and next I'll have to find just the right papers and alphabets and stickers, etc. to go with each page layout. I'm gonna have to start tackling that tomorrow. I'm so tired right now I'm pretty sure my creative thoughts have already gone to bed. So has Carter and I'm not far behind.
I figured it was probably going to be one of those days where things weren't going to make sense.
Since we got at least 4 inches of snow overnight (grrr), I had to get on the treadmill this morning since I couldn't walk on the roads that were just clear last weekend. A little later I followed the plow into town so I could sign Carter up for soccer. That seemed a little strange. Hope the snow is gone by the first game in April!
Carter and I then went grocery shopping so I could whip together some chili in the crockpot for supper. Now that made more sense than thinking of shin guards and grass stains.
When we got home, it was apparent we'd have to do some snow removal at some point today. Jim was at work so I was weighing whether I should wait until he got home for some help -- or get motivated, do it and surprise him. The other option, which I did consider thoroughly, was going downstairs to scrapbook awhile and then hope the snow melted by the time I was done. Since we don't have a bathroom in the basement, I was pretty sure I wouldn't last until April, so I opted to just blow the darn snow. At least Carter shoveled off the front deck and steps so I did have some help.
After that I did descend to the Scrap Cave for the day, coming up for air only to make my picks on ESPN.com and to get supper together. I now have my cropping packets together -- well the pictures anyway -- and next I'll have to find just the right papers and alphabets and stickers, etc. to go with each page layout. I'm gonna have to start tackling that tomorrow. I'm so tired right now I'm pretty sure my creative thoughts have already gone to bed. So has Carter and I'm not far behind.
Friday, February 20, 2009
TGIF (Thank God I'm Forty)
Writer Robert Fulghum has famously said, "All I really need to know I learned in kindergarten." If you've read the essay, you understand that the values of sharing and caring (and many more) we learn as 5-year-olds are worthy characteristics for a lifetime.
Good thought. But for some of us it takes awhile longer to catch on. Or perhaps it's just that we are lifelong students and always picking up new tidbits of wisdom. Now that I am an old and wise (or just old) 40-year-old, those tidbits of wisdom come flying at me at light speed some days. Here's a few things I've picked up in the last 24 hours:
* Don't underestimate the importance of the Schwan's man. Yes, the food in general is overpriced, but can you really put a price tag on convenience? Last night when we got home from work, I happened to glance at the calendar and saw the word "potluck" and just about had a heart attack. I completely forgot about a potluck for a friend's anniversary. Here it was 5:40 and eating was to commence at 6:30. Thankfully, I had a bag of Schwan's meatballs in the freezer. I nuked those while heating up BBQ sauce in the slow cooker and had a tasty potluck contribution in the nick of time. For me, that was priceless.
* We all deserve to be pampered once in awhile. Although my husband may beg to differ (but I doubt it), I am not one of those high-maintenance women. I don't need jewelry and shopping and manicures to keep me happy. I used to think I didn't deserve all that anyway. But now I find myself worthy and my one source of pampering is my hair. About a year ago, I put it in someone else's hands. And now I am puddy in her hands for 2 hours every other month. This morning, Jim and I went to work a little early, then I visited my hair artist in Waupaca, then me & my glamorous self went back to work. Yes, you can mix work and pleasure.
* Everything tastes better with friends. We met our friends Mike, Christine and son Nate out to eat tonight. During the summer, the guys coach baseball together and our boys play together so we see each other all the time. In the "off season," it sure takes some effort to coordinate a get-together between our busy schedules. But we're always grateful when we finally do! We ate at Anchor Bay on the Wisconsin River (which you can't see in the dark anyway) and then came back to our house to hang out (like teenagers, I guess). It was nice to see them again and, no offense to the kids, have some adult companionship. We're all excited about our upcoming trip to Milwaukee for the Celtics-Bucks game. And, believe it or not, looking forward to another baseball season. (Sign-up is Monday already!) Looking forward to spending more time with some pretty cool friends -- and making that a priority.
* Pride still goeth before the fall. Yup, I've said that phrase before and now I understand it. I explained that ESPN streaking thing the other day. Well Miss Newcomer Robyn woke up this morning to a winning streak of 8! Whoo-hoo! That's the best so far out of our group. I should have just smiled and kept my mouth shut. But no. I had to do the gloating happy dance and proceeded to lose on the next pick. Now I'm back to square one and building up a new streak. I'll try to keep my pride intact if I do well. But another thing I've learned at this old age is that I often do what I want to do -- not what I should do. And yes, it still gets me in trouble! (Maybe I'll have that one mastered by the time I'm 50.)
Good thought. But for some of us it takes awhile longer to catch on. Or perhaps it's just that we are lifelong students and always picking up new tidbits of wisdom. Now that I am an old and wise (or just old) 40-year-old, those tidbits of wisdom come flying at me at light speed some days. Here's a few things I've picked up in the last 24 hours:
* Don't underestimate the importance of the Schwan's man. Yes, the food in general is overpriced, but can you really put a price tag on convenience? Last night when we got home from work, I happened to glance at the calendar and saw the word "potluck" and just about had a heart attack. I completely forgot about a potluck for a friend's anniversary. Here it was 5:40 and eating was to commence at 6:30. Thankfully, I had a bag of Schwan's meatballs in the freezer. I nuked those while heating up BBQ sauce in the slow cooker and had a tasty potluck contribution in the nick of time. For me, that was priceless.
* We all deserve to be pampered once in awhile. Although my husband may beg to differ (but I doubt it), I am not one of those high-maintenance women. I don't need jewelry and shopping and manicures to keep me happy. I used to think I didn't deserve all that anyway. But now I find myself worthy and my one source of pampering is my hair. About a year ago, I put it in someone else's hands. And now I am puddy in her hands for 2 hours every other month. This morning, Jim and I went to work a little early, then I visited my hair artist in Waupaca, then me & my glamorous self went back to work. Yes, you can mix work and pleasure.
* Everything tastes better with friends. We met our friends Mike, Christine and son Nate out to eat tonight. During the summer, the guys coach baseball together and our boys play together so we see each other all the time. In the "off season," it sure takes some effort to coordinate a get-together between our busy schedules. But we're always grateful when we finally do! We ate at Anchor Bay on the Wisconsin River (which you can't see in the dark anyway) and then came back to our house to hang out (like teenagers, I guess). It was nice to see them again and, no offense to the kids, have some adult companionship. We're all excited about our upcoming trip to Milwaukee for the Celtics-Bucks game. And, believe it or not, looking forward to another baseball season. (Sign-up is Monday already!) Looking forward to spending more time with some pretty cool friends -- and making that a priority.
* Pride still goeth before the fall. Yup, I've said that phrase before and now I understand it. I explained that ESPN streaking thing the other day. Well Miss Newcomer Robyn woke up this morning to a winning streak of 8! Whoo-hoo! That's the best so far out of our group. I should have just smiled and kept my mouth shut. But no. I had to do the gloating happy dance and proceeded to lose on the next pick. Now I'm back to square one and building up a new streak. I'll try to keep my pride intact if I do well. But another thing I've learned at this old age is that I often do what I want to do -- not what I should do. And yes, it still gets me in trouble! (Maybe I'll have that one mastered by the time I'm 50.)
Thursday, February 19, 2009
"Idol" Hands
My friend Becky and I don't know what to do now that we don't have 4 hours of American Idol occupying our time each week. After her niece was sent home last week, we sort of had an unspoken agreement that we'd swear off the show -- at least until it got closer to the end.
So I stopped by her house last night just to say "hi" and to pick up some scrapbooking supplies (she's also my Creative Memories consultant -- or in our crop cult world, my "supplier").
With my refilled tape runner in hand, I returned home and had Carter read aloud to me again while I scrapbooked a couple pages. I'm thinking this could be habit-forming. And heck, if we kept up this arrangement, imagine all the pages I would get done and how many pages Carter would get read. It's a win-win situation!
Actually, the main reason I am on this scrap kick now is that I am going to my scrapbooking getaway (Camp Crop-A-Lot!) next weekend so I am trying to make some progress beforehand. I will end up spending this weekend and my evenings next week getting everything set. I found the more I plan ahead, the more productive my weekend is. I guess that makes it sound like a lot of work, but really, it's a lot of fun once I get there. (Like most cult activities are, right?)
Tonight, since it's a Grey's night (and I do have my priorities) I am guessing I'll have to forgo the reading/scrapping hour -- unless Carter is ready to launch right after supper. Maybe we'll make it a cereal night and it will be over quickly!
Oops. I guess my crop-turnal instincts are overtaking my maternal ones...
So I stopped by her house last night just to say "hi" and to pick up some scrapbooking supplies (she's also my Creative Memories consultant -- or in our crop cult world, my "supplier").
With my refilled tape runner in hand, I returned home and had Carter read aloud to me again while I scrapbooked a couple pages. I'm thinking this could be habit-forming. And heck, if we kept up this arrangement, imagine all the pages I would get done and how many pages Carter would get read. It's a win-win situation!
Actually, the main reason I am on this scrap kick now is that I am going to my scrapbooking getaway (Camp Crop-A-Lot!) next weekend so I am trying to make some progress beforehand. I will end up spending this weekend and my evenings next week getting everything set. I found the more I plan ahead, the more productive my weekend is. I guess that makes it sound like a lot of work, but really, it's a lot of fun once I get there. (Like most cult activities are, right?)
Tonight, since it's a Grey's night (and I do have my priorities) I am guessing I'll have to forgo the reading/scrapping hour -- unless Carter is ready to launch right after supper. Maybe we'll make it a cereal night and it will be over quickly!
Oops. I guess my crop-turnal instincts are overtaking my maternal ones...
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Yup, It's Still Winter
We knew our spring-like weather and melting trends were too good to last. I mean, it's only mid-February, right? Still, I didn't like seeing the words Winter Storm Watch yesterday. Thankfully, it didn't amount to much.
Some sort of freezing drizzle crap was supposed to start during the evening, so I opted to stay home with Carter and do homework while Jim went to a basketball game. I was sort of crabby anyway. I think that happens when you are on a diet and you see a pile of frosted Valentine cookies on the kitchen counter calling to you, "Pick me! Pick me!" Grrr. I'm tired of being good!
Carter got his math done pretty quickly and then he read aloud to me while I scrapbooked a bit. (Am I the queen of multi-tasking or what?)
When we got up this morning, it looked like we got about 3-4 inches of heavy snow. It was one of those slushy rides into work where I was gripping the door handle quite a bit but, of course, having complete faith in my trusty driver!
I'm in for a busy day today. That will help keep my mind focused on my project and not on the additional snow on the way or those heart-shaped delights 45 miles away. Somewhere I will find that balance between good and cranky!
Some sort of freezing drizzle crap was supposed to start during the evening, so I opted to stay home with Carter and do homework while Jim went to a basketball game. I was sort of crabby anyway. I think that happens when you are on a diet and you see a pile of frosted Valentine cookies on the kitchen counter calling to you, "Pick me! Pick me!" Grrr. I'm tired of being good!
Carter got his math done pretty quickly and then he read aloud to me while I scrapbooked a bit. (Am I the queen of multi-tasking or what?)
When we got up this morning, it looked like we got about 3-4 inches of heavy snow. It was one of those slushy rides into work where I was gripping the door handle quite a bit but, of course, having complete faith in my trusty driver!
I'm in for a busy day today. That will help keep my mind focused on my project and not on the additional snow on the way or those heart-shaped delights 45 miles away. Somewhere I will find that balance between good and cranky!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Digital Deadline
As I'm typing, I'm looking at my bare fingernails wondering how I didn't find time to put on a fresh coat of nail polish when I had three days off. I guess I just ran out of time...
Sounds like I'm not the only one with time management issues, though. Today was supposed to be the day that broadcasters switch to all digital, leaving those with analog TVs (rabbit ears) in need of a magic digital converter box or, here's an idea, a new TV.
Amazingly, there are people taken by surprise by this. Are you kidding me? There have commercials and scrolling type on the news stations for at least the past year. But now, because some people didn't find the time -- and the government found some other excuses -- this conversion is likely going to be delayed. At least parts of it.
We aren't concerned in our house. We've got cable so we're set. Though I am constantly looking for an excuse to get a big ol' flatscreen of some kind.
My parents (who still have a rotary phone, too) will be impacted, though, and since they are "wintering" in Texas at my sister's, I don't know if they've made plans for this. Perhaps after being exposed to 300 cable channels at her house, they won't want to go back to their 3 local stations (plus FOX when the wind is in the right direction).
I meant to ask them about this before they went South so I could offer some assistance, if needed, but I guess I ran out of time. You know how that goes...
Sounds like I'm not the only one with time management issues, though. Today was supposed to be the day that broadcasters switch to all digital, leaving those with analog TVs (rabbit ears) in need of a magic digital converter box or, here's an idea, a new TV.
Amazingly, there are people taken by surprise by this. Are you kidding me? There have commercials and scrolling type on the news stations for at least the past year. But now, because some people didn't find the time -- and the government found some other excuses -- this conversion is likely going to be delayed. At least parts of it.
We aren't concerned in our house. We've got cable so we're set. Though I am constantly looking for an excuse to get a big ol' flatscreen of some kind.
My parents (who still have a rotary phone, too) will be impacted, though, and since they are "wintering" in Texas at my sister's, I don't know if they've made plans for this. Perhaps after being exposed to 300 cable channels at her house, they won't want to go back to their 3 local stations (plus FOX when the wind is in the right direction).
I meant to ask them about this before they went South so I could offer some assistance, if needed, but I guess I ran out of time. You know how that goes...
Monday, February 16, 2009
On Holiday
A few years ago, our company decided to be generous and throw in Presidents' Day as a paid holiday. It falls so close after Christmas and New Year's that I am not dying to have an extra day off. But I'll take it.
As it turned out, Carter didn't have school today either. We probably could have gone out of town or done something special, but we've got one of those weekends coming up in about a month when we head to Milwaukee and welcome our beloved Boston Celtics to town.
Jim did have to go to work for awhile today to get on top of a looming deadline. Carter and I stuck close to home after all the running around we did yesterday. Nothing exciting, that's for sure. Watched some movies, did some scrapping (yay!), organized some bills, got on the treadmill (I wouldn't lie) and got some reading done (both of us).
It's going to be tough responding to that alarm in the morning after being a slug all day. But since our next holiday (as far as work is concerned) isn't until Memorial Day, I am not ashamed. Apparently I earned it.
As it turned out, Carter didn't have school today either. We probably could have gone out of town or done something special, but we've got one of those weekends coming up in about a month when we head to Milwaukee and welcome our beloved Boston Celtics to town.
Jim did have to go to work for awhile today to get on top of a looming deadline. Carter and I stuck close to home after all the running around we did yesterday. Nothing exciting, that's for sure. Watched some movies, did some scrapping (yay!), organized some bills, got on the treadmill (I wouldn't lie) and got some reading done (both of us).
It's going to be tough responding to that alarm in the morning after being a slug all day. But since our next holiday (as far as work is concerned) isn't until Memorial Day, I am not ashamed. Apparently I earned it.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
United States of Robyn
There's a new series on Showtime called the United States of Tara about a woman whose stress causes multiple personalities to surface. I think I mentioned before that hubby has suggested I watch this. I have watched it. I just can't get into it. It's pretty whacky. But then, that may be why I supposedly could identify with it, no?
Looking back over my Sunday, I have to laugh, though. My "activities" were all over the place -- like could this be one person with all these sporadic interests? I swear it's all me. No split personalities that I am aware of.
Got up early enough to get Carter to Sunday School. While he was there, I went to Wal-Mart to get some grocery shopping done. Did you know it takes a lot longer to do when you are trying to buy healthy stuff? All that label reading! Plus, I had to capitalize on all that leftover Valentine candy that was 50% off today. (Hey, that's for my candy jar at work. I swear.)
When we got home, Carter went to his room to get some reading done and I went online to sign up for the NASCAR challenge on ESPN.com. Jim and I are already in the "Streak for Cash" competition on there, where you pick winners and various outcomes of every sporting event from soccer to martial arts to golf. You see how long a winning streak goes and somebody will win a million dollars if they get 27 right in a row. My best streak is 4. Anyway, we are "competing" against another couple from work and whoever has the most wins come spring has to buy a round of golf for the other couple. Sounds fair, right? We are pretty much neck-and-neck.
I guess we figured since we're only obsessed with making picks 90% of the time, we should throw the new stock-car challenge into the mix for the other 10%. I logged in as GearHead68 and made picks without any research... and it showed. I tanked today but we'll see what next week brings. I swear I am not going to spend any extra time thinking about it. But if we jump into the Fantasy Fishing challenge next (and it does exist), I am so out of here!
I promised Carter we'd go on a movie date this weekend so we headed to a matinee after lunch. Now over the years we've got a pretty good track record with kids movies. I think there was only one I absolutely hated and maybe one or two more that were pretty boring or just not that entertaining for adults.
I added another one on that list today with Mall Cop. I don't mean to offend anyone who enjoyed it. I just saw all the funny parts in the previews, I guess. Plus, since I have been so good on my non-diet new healthy eating plan, I couldn't even chow down on popcorn. I was sitting there pondering which makes me a bigger loser today -- joining a NASCAR challenge or watching Paul Blart. It's a toss up.
By the time I got home, I just wanted some Robyn normalcy and scrapbooked for awhile. Some would claim that makes me a loser, too, but you wouldn't dare say that to my face, would you? I didn't think so. Since I'm working on my 2007 book, this afternoon I scrapbooked the pages on a 5K I ran that year. So I was inspired to jump on the treadmill again. Yes, I know. That's two days in a row. Perhaps there is another personality lurking about (in Nikes, no less)!
Tonight after supper, Jim and I watched the movie Burn After Reading. We were laughing out loud by the end. But I tell you it's way, way different humor than Mall Cop. Much more twisted and a helluva lot of swearing. If you liked the weird (understatement) humor of Fargo or the Big Lebowski, rent it sometime.
Well that about sums up the day. I think I can be one person with one personality who happens to be a gearheaded, yo-yo dieting scrapbooker with a sense of humor, can't I?
Oops. Time's up. I gotta log off so I can make another pick!
Looking back over my Sunday, I have to laugh, though. My "activities" were all over the place -- like could this be one person with all these sporadic interests? I swear it's all me. No split personalities that I am aware of.
Got up early enough to get Carter to Sunday School. While he was there, I went to Wal-Mart to get some grocery shopping done. Did you know it takes a lot longer to do when you are trying to buy healthy stuff? All that label reading! Plus, I had to capitalize on all that leftover Valentine candy that was 50% off today. (Hey, that's for my candy jar at work. I swear.)
When we got home, Carter went to his room to get some reading done and I went online to sign up for the NASCAR challenge on ESPN.com. Jim and I are already in the "Streak for Cash" competition on there, where you pick winners and various outcomes of every sporting event from soccer to martial arts to golf. You see how long a winning streak goes and somebody will win a million dollars if they get 27 right in a row. My best streak is 4. Anyway, we are "competing" against another couple from work and whoever has the most wins come spring has to buy a round of golf for the other couple. Sounds fair, right? We are pretty much neck-and-neck.
I guess we figured since we're only obsessed with making picks 90% of the time, we should throw the new stock-car challenge into the mix for the other 10%. I logged in as GearHead68 and made picks without any research... and it showed. I tanked today but we'll see what next week brings. I swear I am not going to spend any extra time thinking about it. But if we jump into the Fantasy Fishing challenge next (and it does exist), I am so out of here!
I promised Carter we'd go on a movie date this weekend so we headed to a matinee after lunch. Now over the years we've got a pretty good track record with kids movies. I think there was only one I absolutely hated and maybe one or two more that were pretty boring or just not that entertaining for adults.
I added another one on that list today with Mall Cop. I don't mean to offend anyone who enjoyed it. I just saw all the funny parts in the previews, I guess. Plus, since I have been so good on my non-diet new healthy eating plan, I couldn't even chow down on popcorn. I was sitting there pondering which makes me a bigger loser today -- joining a NASCAR challenge or watching Paul Blart. It's a toss up.
By the time I got home, I just wanted some Robyn normalcy and scrapbooked for awhile. Some would claim that makes me a loser, too, but you wouldn't dare say that to my face, would you? I didn't think so. Since I'm working on my 2007 book, this afternoon I scrapbooked the pages on a 5K I ran that year. So I was inspired to jump on the treadmill again. Yes, I know. That's two days in a row. Perhaps there is another personality lurking about (in Nikes, no less)!
Tonight after supper, Jim and I watched the movie Burn After Reading. We were laughing out loud by the end. But I tell you it's way, way different humor than Mall Cop. Much more twisted and a helluva lot of swearing. If you liked the weird (understatement) humor of Fargo or the Big Lebowski, rent it sometime.
Well that about sums up the day. I think I can be one person with one personality who happens to be a gearheaded, yo-yo dieting scrapbooker with a sense of humor, can't I?
Oops. Time's up. I gotta log off so I can make another pick!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Young Love
Since I never know who is reading my blog (or may accidentally stumble upon it), I am going to keep names out of this one.
When I was a little older than Carter, I wrote in my diary (about this time of year) that I just couldn't decide which boy to like. "I like so many boys right now I can't decide if I like them or I just think I like them." I then went on to list three contenders, one confirmed "no" and one "stand by" -- the guy I probably had a crush on from 5th to 7th grade (and maybe beyond).
So it really should come as no surprise to me that Carter has been having this same dilemma with deciding if he likes a girl or just wants to be her friend. It's been a constant soap opera this school year -- with the last episode featuring two girls fighting (not really) over Carter and both of them giving up. But now I know there's a new Valentine in the mix.
I asked Carter yesterday after school if he got any special valentines. He did! A box of chocolates and a homemade card that clearly spelled out "from your girlfriend." He told me not to tell Daddy (he doesn't want to be teased) but Daddy asked him the same question 10 minutes later and Carter responded honestly. Of course, today he was teased about it a bit with Daddy asking him if he was going to call her and wish her a happy Valentine's Day. It hasn't happened yet (to my knowledge). And he's had plenty of time.
We had a pretty low-key day around here. I was pleased that by noon I had swept, dusted, vacuumed, spent quality time on the treadmill, showered and shaved my legs. Ask any woman and she'll tell you that's pretty good for a Saturday!
This afternoon I got some scrapbooking done while Carter did homework and played outside and hubby relaxed, playing cribbage online and watching college hoops. Tonight we're staying in (since we went out to eat last night) and I get to watch Grey's (since I missed it Thursday night).
Who can top that? McDreamy on the TV and my McValentine on the couch. I should have some sweet dreams tonight. Happy Valentine's Day to me!
When I was a little older than Carter, I wrote in my diary (about this time of year) that I just couldn't decide which boy to like. "I like so many boys right now I can't decide if I like them or I just think I like them." I then went on to list three contenders, one confirmed "no" and one "stand by" -- the guy I probably had a crush on from 5th to 7th grade (and maybe beyond).
So it really should come as no surprise to me that Carter has been having this same dilemma with deciding if he likes a girl or just wants to be her friend. It's been a constant soap opera this school year -- with the last episode featuring two girls fighting (not really) over Carter and both of them giving up. But now I know there's a new Valentine in the mix.
I asked Carter yesterday after school if he got any special valentines. He did! A box of chocolates and a homemade card that clearly spelled out "from your girlfriend." He told me not to tell Daddy (he doesn't want to be teased) but Daddy asked him the same question 10 minutes later and Carter responded honestly. Of course, today he was teased about it a bit with Daddy asking him if he was going to call her and wish her a happy Valentine's Day. It hasn't happened yet (to my knowledge). And he's had plenty of time.
We had a pretty low-key day around here. I was pleased that by noon I had swept, dusted, vacuumed, spent quality time on the treadmill, showered and shaved my legs. Ask any woman and she'll tell you that's pretty good for a Saturday!
This afternoon I got some scrapbooking done while Carter did homework and played outside and hubby relaxed, playing cribbage online and watching college hoops. Tonight we're staying in (since we went out to eat last night) and I get to watch Grey's (since I missed it Thursday night).
Who can top that? McDreamy on the TV and my McValentine on the couch. I should have some sweet dreams tonight. Happy Valentine's Day to me!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Lucky 13
On the way to work this morning, hubby pointed out the window and said, "Look, I ordered a beautiful sunrise for you! Happy Valentine's Day!" I whipped out my new camera phone and snapped a shot to save for posterity. I mean that's a pretty nice gift, don't ya think?
I figure if the day starts out like that, it's a sign it's going to be a good day -- not filled with a bunch of whacko events just because the 13th day of the month falls on a Friday. Seriously, I am not superstitious. I've got too many dysfunctional thought patterns running through my pea brain as it is. I certainly don't need to start worrying about ladders and black cats and throwing salt over the correct shoulder. My mind would be more of a mess!
In our morning phone call, Carter said something "bad" already happened to him. From what I gather, when he got his clothes washed last night, he did not tie the strings on his sweatshirt together so one of the strings got stuck up in his hood and it took a "long time" to get it back out. Whew! I told him if that's the worst thing that happens today (considering he has 2 tests, a presentation and a Valentines party, too), then he should consider himself lucky.
And who says we can't consider it a lucky 13? I mean a beautiful sunrise has to mean something, right? Good luck today!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Sound Reasoning
I'm one of those people who will say "Everything happens for a reason" but usually it takes some convincing. I often need to see the next sequence of events to determine if it was for a good reason or not.
Last night was the end of the road on American Idol for my friend's niece Jenn Korbee. It came down to her having a sing-off with some chick with an "identity crisis" and Jenn was sent home. Naturally, all of us watching in our new "Idol Cult" were crushed. That's not fair! She can sing! Is she too normal for this show?
At least Mr. Harsh (Simon Cowell) liked her.
And Jenn is already on a successful career path, singing and acting on a children's television show. So perhaps she didn't need to be the next American Idol as badly as someone else. We'll see how it plays out.
Think about how many times we've hoped for a different result but in the end, we're OK it didn't go "our" way.
When I think of every time in my career I've sent out resumes, I have to believe that those rejections happened for a reason. If they hadn't, I wouldn't have landed the "right" jobs where I did, met those wonderful friends in Marinette and Iola or have a new family in Wisconsin Rapids.
Things have a way of working out, don't they?
Of course, now I don't know if I am going to keep watching Idol or not. Maybe one of the reasons for Jenn's departure is a cue I need to stay home and clean house or something.
Nah. It's gotta be somethin' else.
Last night was the end of the road on American Idol for my friend's niece Jenn Korbee. It came down to her having a sing-off with some chick with an "identity crisis" and Jenn was sent home. Naturally, all of us watching in our new "Idol Cult" were crushed. That's not fair! She can sing! Is she too normal for this show?
At least Mr. Harsh (Simon Cowell) liked her.
And Jenn is already on a successful career path, singing and acting on a children's television show. So perhaps she didn't need to be the next American Idol as badly as someone else. We'll see how it plays out.
Think about how many times we've hoped for a different result but in the end, we're OK it didn't go "our" way.
When I think of every time in my career I've sent out resumes, I have to believe that those rejections happened for a reason. If they hadn't, I wouldn't have landed the "right" jobs where I did, met those wonderful friends in Marinette and Iola or have a new family in Wisconsin Rapids.
Things have a way of working out, don't they?
Of course, now I don't know if I am going to keep watching Idol or not. Maybe one of the reasons for Jenn's departure is a cue I need to stay home and clean house or something.
Nah. It's gotta be somethin' else.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Hot Chocolate
I'm sure those of you with sons have heard of Axe -- that deodorant/body spray that makes boys smell like men and drives the women wild. It does smell pretty good (in small doses) but there's something disturbing when the source is a sixth- or seventh-grader. That's just not right.
Recently, there has been an Axe commercial about their new fragrance -- Dark Temptation. In the commercial, a "chocolate man" walks around and women are licking him, biting him and breaking pieces off of him because they can't get enough of him. The message is that the new fragrance will be as irresistible to women as chocolate (pretty much labeling us as choco-holics with no will power. Probably closer to the truth than some of us will admit.)
The message, however, seems to get lost on some of the younger viewers. Just three days to go to Valentine's Day and Carter asks me if he can get some of the new chocolate Axe. "I realize I sit next to (girl's name here) so it's probably not a good idea, but I want to try it," he says.
So I had to explain that it doesn't actually smell like chocolate and then ask the obvious: Why do you need to smell good for girls in fifth grade anyway?
I didn't get anywhere with that line of questioning but at least I know he has not spent any of his hard-earned money on a special Valentine this year. I think he's still trying to live down the crystal (fake) swan he gave to a girl in second grade. This year every kid in his class will get a Valentine and Carter will smell like, well, Carter.
And I'll love him more than chocolate!
Recently, there has been an Axe commercial about their new fragrance -- Dark Temptation. In the commercial, a "chocolate man" walks around and women are licking him, biting him and breaking pieces off of him because they can't get enough of him. The message is that the new fragrance will be as irresistible to women as chocolate (pretty much labeling us as choco-holics with no will power. Probably closer to the truth than some of us will admit.)
The message, however, seems to get lost on some of the younger viewers. Just three days to go to Valentine's Day and Carter asks me if he can get some of the new chocolate Axe. "I realize I sit next to (girl's name here) so it's probably not a good idea, but I want to try it," he says.
So I had to explain that it doesn't actually smell like chocolate and then ask the obvious: Why do you need to smell good for girls in fifth grade anyway?
I didn't get anywhere with that line of questioning but at least I know he has not spent any of his hard-earned money on a special Valentine this year. I think he's still trying to live down the crystal (fake) swan he gave to a girl in second grade. This year every kid in his class will get a Valentine and Carter will smell like, well, Carter.
And I'll love him more than chocolate!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Under Pressure
When I'm on the golf course and I miss a putt for birdie, I always claim I choked because "There's too much pressure!" To which my better half always responds: "There's no such thing as pressure!"
I beg to differ.
However, I will go so far as to admit the only person who can put pressure on me is me. If I was content to just get by, putting forth the minimum effort, there'd be a lot less pressure. But I'm not wired that way. I do want to do my best and give 110 percent, as they say.
I'm certainly not unique. In fact I know a lot people (am even married to one) who won't settle for mediocrity. And I respect that.
I feel for these contestants on American Idol. They have worked hard to get where they are at, but let's face it, they had to have talent, too. Watching tonight, as we see the number of contestants dwindling from thousands to a hundred and now 50, the pressure is evident. They are nervous. They want to -- and expect to -- do their best. Until they let nerves get the best of them and they choke.
Since we didn't get to see the performances of my friend's niece and husband, we're not sure why Tom wasn't chosen to move on, but he is done. Bummer.
Tonight, at the end of the show, they had the remaining contestants divided into 4 rooms. They were letting the whole room continue on or go home. We saw the first room go on, the second room get sent home, then the third room go on. Becky's niece Jenn Korbee was in the 4th room.
The judges sure sounded like that room was being sent home, too. And we in the audience (us 7 girls watching at Becky's) thought so, too, since we thought the number of contestants were going to be cut in half tonight.
They kept panning the faces in the room and we saw a very nervous Jenn several times. We just wanted to cry because we were sure they were sending that room home. All of sudden, they said, "You're going on!" We all just screamed (you probably heard us), we were so excited! It sure feels good when you can release pressure that way!
We saw previews for tomorrow night and saw Jenn singing so we're hoping finally we'll get to hear her perform. And, hopefully, it won't be for the last time.
I beg to differ.
However, I will go so far as to admit the only person who can put pressure on me is me. If I was content to just get by, putting forth the minimum effort, there'd be a lot less pressure. But I'm not wired that way. I do want to do my best and give 110 percent, as they say.
I'm certainly not unique. In fact I know a lot people (am even married to one) who won't settle for mediocrity. And I respect that.
I feel for these contestants on American Idol. They have worked hard to get where they are at, but let's face it, they had to have talent, too. Watching tonight, as we see the number of contestants dwindling from thousands to a hundred and now 50, the pressure is evident. They are nervous. They want to -- and expect to -- do their best. Until they let nerves get the best of them and they choke.
Since we didn't get to see the performances of my friend's niece and husband, we're not sure why Tom wasn't chosen to move on, but he is done. Bummer.
Tonight, at the end of the show, they had the remaining contestants divided into 4 rooms. They were letting the whole room continue on or go home. We saw the first room go on, the second room get sent home, then the third room go on. Becky's niece Jenn Korbee was in the 4th room.
The judges sure sounded like that room was being sent home, too. And we in the audience (us 7 girls watching at Becky's) thought so, too, since we thought the number of contestants were going to be cut in half tonight.
They kept panning the faces in the room and we saw a very nervous Jenn several times. We just wanted to cry because we were sure they were sending that room home. All of sudden, they said, "You're going on!" We all just screamed (you probably heard us), we were so excited! It sure feels good when you can release pressure that way!
We saw previews for tomorrow night and saw Jenn singing so we're hoping finally we'll get to hear her perform. And, hopefully, it won't be for the last time.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Comfortably Numb
I'm watching President Obama's press conference and thinking, if I would have stayed in newspaper journalism, maybe I'd be there asking questions. Not likely, but I can dream. All I really would want to know is if he his bailing out the Tooth Fairy, too, because after today, I don't think the TF can afford my well-deserved hefty payout!
After my initial toothache exam last week, I have been on an antibiotic and pain meds (as needed) in preparation for today's extraction. That's the dentist's technical way of saying, "I'm goin' in with the pliers!"
The thing is, my tooth didn't even hurt yesterday or today -- probably due to the antibiotics -- so I really wanted to call and cancel my appointment. But wisely chose not to, knowing this pain-free moment was probably going to be short-lived.
My appointment was scheduled for 5 p.m. so we were planning to leave work at 4. Around 2 p.m. the dentist office calls and my first thought (with fingers crossed) was something came up and they wouldn't be able to get me in. Not even close. It was more like, "Robyn, our 4 o'clock canceled so could you come in an hour earlier?" Wow, get my tooth pulled even sooner? Lucky me!
I guess it was good because I was so busy at work today I didn't have time to think about it and build up the nerves. But I made up for it in the chair. I was so nervous that when he finally did pull it (after several injections to make it numb), I just about fainted. But I didn't, so score one for me for being a "big girl!"
It hurt really bad, though, for the next hour -- until the Vicoden kicked in. Now I am comfortably numb. I think the bleeding is about done and the swelling is going down a bit so I'm pretty sure I'll survive this OK.
I still think the Tooth Fairy owes me big time. But I didn't hear anything about that bailout yet so I'll have to be content that hubby took pity on me and has relinquished the couch for the night!
After my initial toothache exam last week, I have been on an antibiotic and pain meds (as needed) in preparation for today's extraction. That's the dentist's technical way of saying, "I'm goin' in with the pliers!"
The thing is, my tooth didn't even hurt yesterday or today -- probably due to the antibiotics -- so I really wanted to call and cancel my appointment. But wisely chose not to, knowing this pain-free moment was probably going to be short-lived.
My appointment was scheduled for 5 p.m. so we were planning to leave work at 4. Around 2 p.m. the dentist office calls and my first thought (with fingers crossed) was something came up and they wouldn't be able to get me in. Not even close. It was more like, "Robyn, our 4 o'clock canceled so could you come in an hour earlier?" Wow, get my tooth pulled even sooner? Lucky me!
I guess it was good because I was so busy at work today I didn't have time to think about it and build up the nerves. But I made up for it in the chair. I was so nervous that when he finally did pull it (after several injections to make it numb), I just about fainted. But I didn't, so score one for me for being a "big girl!"
It hurt really bad, though, for the next hour -- until the Vicoden kicked in. Now I am comfortably numb. I think the bleeding is about done and the swelling is going down a bit so I'm pretty sure I'll survive this OK.
I still think the Tooth Fairy owes me big time. But I didn't hear anything about that bailout yet so I'll have to be content that hubby took pity on me and has relinquished the couch for the night!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Irish Spring
Here's a question for you: When we have that unexpected warm spell in the late fall, we call it Indian Summer. So what do we call this spring-like weather in the late winter? Irish Spring since it's close to St. Patrick's Day or is it just a Heart Warmer since Valentine's Day is coming up?
I guess I don't care. I just don't want it to end!
Today was in the high 30s and sunny again. I got the CR-V washed after Sunday School (we did the car yesterday). There was such salt build-up, it was disgusting. No wonder Midwest cars eventually end up in Rust Bucket Heaven. I'm sure with all the puddles now, it won't take long before it's a mess again, but we made a dent in it anyway.
The puddles also mean the ice is clearing off the roads so I decided to go for a run today. Nope, that's not a typo. I do like to run. I just took several months off to fatten up for Lent or something. It felt good to be out in the fresh air for a second day. Why can't we have one more day of "weekend"?
My mission today was more about relieving stress than bonding with Mother Nature or burning calories. There's some controversy brewing at church of all places. I am not going to go into details, but the stress has been building for a long time now. Today some of it leaked out in the form of tears so I decided I needed to just run it off. Either that or dig my way through a tub of ice cream. The run was definitely the guilt-free option! And yes, between that and the listening ear of a girlfriend, I feel much better.
I had some intentions of getting some scrapbooking done later but that didn't happen. I ended up reading Carter's current book so I could quiz him on it and he'd be prepared for his test tomorrow. I told him since I had to sacrifice my scrapping time, he better get 100%! We'll see.
Right now, we're flipping channels and trying to decide if we are still young enough to "get" the Grammys or if we should just catch a basketball game. I have this feeling I know where the remote is going to stop. I mean, heck, if it's Irish Spring right now, March Madness must be just around the corner!
I guess I don't care. I just don't want it to end!
Today was in the high 30s and sunny again. I got the CR-V washed after Sunday School (we did the car yesterday). There was such salt build-up, it was disgusting. No wonder Midwest cars eventually end up in Rust Bucket Heaven. I'm sure with all the puddles now, it won't take long before it's a mess again, but we made a dent in it anyway.
The puddles also mean the ice is clearing off the roads so I decided to go for a run today. Nope, that's not a typo. I do like to run. I just took several months off to fatten up for Lent or something. It felt good to be out in the fresh air for a second day. Why can't we have one more day of "weekend"?
My mission today was more about relieving stress than bonding with Mother Nature or burning calories. There's some controversy brewing at church of all places. I am not going to go into details, but the stress has been building for a long time now. Today some of it leaked out in the form of tears so I decided I needed to just run it off. Either that or dig my way through a tub of ice cream. The run was definitely the guilt-free option! And yes, between that and the listening ear of a girlfriend, I feel much better.
I had some intentions of getting some scrapbooking done later but that didn't happen. I ended up reading Carter's current book so I could quiz him on it and he'd be prepared for his test tomorrow. I told him since I had to sacrifice my scrapping time, he better get 100%! We'll see.
Right now, we're flipping channels and trying to decide if we are still young enough to "get" the Grammys or if we should just catch a basketball game. I have this feeling I know where the remote is going to stop. I mean, heck, if it's Irish Spring right now, March Madness must be just around the corner!
Saturday, February 7, 2009
A Temporary Reprieve
Not sure what time Carter and his friend went to bed last night (since I sort of passed out) but I'm pretty sure it was after 11. So I was surprised to hear them tip-toeing downstairs at 7:10 a.m. Ugh. On a Saturday? C'mon! I reluctantly dragged my keester out of bed by 8 so I could make them some cinnamon rolls.
When I saw how nice it was outside -- one of those deceptively sunny days that make you think we should have the front door open -- I put my nose to the grindstone to get some things done. I had my last batch of Sunday School curriculum to write and I wanted it off my plate. When I say last, I mean last one after 5 years of doing this. It's time to pass the baton. And I am soooo ready! I finished it late morning and let out a whoop. One, because I was done. And two, the thermometer out back said 45 degrees!
Sometimes Mother Nature can be such a tease, giving us a nice spring-like day when we know it won't last. We are so desperate in Wisconsin, though, we take the joke and get on with our day, enjoying the temporary reprieve. I was able to get outside for a walk in the fresh air and that felt great! Didn't hurt to log a few miles, too.
After lunch, we took Carter's friend home and later took Carter over to Grandpa and Grandma Austin's. They kept him for the night so hubby and I could enjoy a date. Yup, you read that right! A date!
We met some friends over in Appleton for dinner and then went to a comedy show. The comics were hilarious! As usual, I will never remember the jokes -- and could only dream of the same delivery -- but it was entertaining as heck. I smiled so much my mouth hurt (that and the toothache!)
All in all, today was a nice reprieve from the dead (or dread) of winter. Thanks, Mother Nature. (And hubby, too!)
When I saw how nice it was outside -- one of those deceptively sunny days that make you think we should have the front door open -- I put my nose to the grindstone to get some things done. I had my last batch of Sunday School curriculum to write and I wanted it off my plate. When I say last, I mean last one after 5 years of doing this. It's time to pass the baton. And I am soooo ready! I finished it late morning and let out a whoop. One, because I was done. And two, the thermometer out back said 45 degrees!
Sometimes Mother Nature can be such a tease, giving us a nice spring-like day when we know it won't last. We are so desperate in Wisconsin, though, we take the joke and get on with our day, enjoying the temporary reprieve. I was able to get outside for a walk in the fresh air and that felt great! Didn't hurt to log a few miles, too.
After lunch, we took Carter's friend home and later took Carter over to Grandpa and Grandma Austin's. They kept him for the night so hubby and I could enjoy a date. Yup, you read that right! A date!
We met some friends over in Appleton for dinner and then went to a comedy show. The comics were hilarious! As usual, I will never remember the jokes -- and could only dream of the same delivery -- but it was entertaining as heck. I smiled so much my mouth hurt (that and the toothache!)
All in all, today was a nice reprieve from the dead (or dread) of winter. Thanks, Mother Nature. (And hubby, too!)
Friday, February 6, 2009
What a Pain
I had an emergency trip to the dentist this week. A certain tooth was becoming a nuisance and a painful one at that. Now I know I have a low threshold for pain to begin with, but when it comes to my teeth, I stick it out longer because I never know what the dear dentist is gonna have to do about it.
He didn't have time to do anything about it Wednesday, but he prescribed an antibiotic and some pain meds to get me through until Monday when he's got an extraction on his agenda. Yikes. Nothing like having 5 days to work myself into a frenzy.
I'm glad he prescribed the pain pills or I'd be pretty tough to tolerate right now. (More so than usual!) I had to take one last night and stay home. Today I split one in half at work since I knew I'd need to be coherent -- and that computer mouse might constitute "heavy equipment."
Tonight I'm laying low. Jim went to a basketball game and Carter has a friend over for the night -- but they're pestering the girls next door right now so I've got some peace and quiet. I should probably just quit typing before the meds kick in. Who knows what I might say then? If it sounds good, I might be back...
He didn't have time to do anything about it Wednesday, but he prescribed an antibiotic and some pain meds to get me through until Monday when he's got an extraction on his agenda. Yikes. Nothing like having 5 days to work myself into a frenzy.
I'm glad he prescribed the pain pills or I'd be pretty tough to tolerate right now. (More so than usual!) I had to take one last night and stay home. Today I split one in half at work since I knew I'd need to be coherent -- and that computer mouse might constitute "heavy equipment."
Tonight I'm laying low. Jim went to a basketball game and Carter has a friend over for the night -- but they're pestering the girls next door right now so I've got some peace and quiet. I should probably just quit typing before the meds kick in. Who knows what I might say then? If it sounds good, I might be back...
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Drama Queens
Watching the first 15 minutes of American Idol last night, I realized why they call it a "reality" show. It had all the whining and tears and drama a viewer could ask for -- if you like that sort of thing.
Not me. Now I know why I don't get into those reality shows. If I wanted to watch the unbelievable sap, I'd tune into that. But this, in my opinion, is a talent competition. Let's see the talent!
We were fortunate we at least got to see and hear Jenn and Tom on stage last night, but not their individual parts. Their whole group moved onto the next round, though, so we were excited!
Back to the drama... Other than these reality shows, you really only see it at this level in one place: high school. Am I right or am I right?
It seems like high school was the only place we cared so much about what other people thought and didn't hold anything back when telling people what we thought. No matter how off base or hurtful, it was a back-stabbing festival. And oh, the tears. Yikes, I could never go back. It's probably a good thing I'm not a teacher. I don't know that I could tolerate the drama. "It's not about you!" I'd be telling them to "Get real!" or "Grow up!" in a hurry, that's for sure.
It's not all bad, though. You can declare your undying hatred for someone one day and you're back to being BFFs the next. And if you can survive those high school years with a relationship intact, then you probably have a friend for life!
I don't think some of those Idol contestants are mature enough to handle that concept. It's a selfish competition, after all. So I guess they fit right in. We'll see next week if the talent stays and the drama queens, with mascara running, head back to their castles. I hope so.
Not me. Now I know why I don't get into those reality shows. If I wanted to watch the unbelievable sap, I'd tune into that. But this, in my opinion, is a talent competition. Let's see the talent!
We were fortunate we at least got to see and hear Jenn and Tom on stage last night, but not their individual parts. Their whole group moved onto the next round, though, so we were excited!
Back to the drama... Other than these reality shows, you really only see it at this level in one place: high school. Am I right or am I right?
It seems like high school was the only place we cared so much about what other people thought and didn't hold anything back when telling people what we thought. No matter how off base or hurtful, it was a back-stabbing festival. And oh, the tears. Yikes, I could never go back. It's probably a good thing I'm not a teacher. I don't know that I could tolerate the drama. "It's not about you!" I'd be telling them to "Get real!" or "Grow up!" in a hurry, that's for sure.
It's not all bad, though. You can declare your undying hatred for someone one day and you're back to being BFFs the next. And if you can survive those high school years with a relationship intact, then you probably have a friend for life!
I don't think some of those Idol contestants are mature enough to handle that concept. It's a selfish competition, after all. So I guess they fit right in. We'll see next week if the talent stays and the drama queens, with mascara running, head back to their castles. I hope so.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Idol Chat
Spent another hour on my friend Becky's couch last night, hoping to see her niece Jenn and husband Tom get some face time on American Idol. We saw them briefly as they came out a door cheering that they are going onto the next level -- then a quick shot of Tom carrying Jenn out the door to go home for the night.
Of course, we're thrilled they made the first cut but we haven't gotten to see them perform yet! I "borrowed" this picture above so you can see what they look like anyway. If you are fan of the show, you already know you can watch interview videos of them, etc. at americanidol.com.
Since Tom and Jenn are the first married couple to get this far in the competition, we are hoping at some point they'll have a special segment on them. For now, we'll be content that they are making the cuts -- which must mean they're doing more than OK!
Since I've never watched the season this early on, I'm not sure how all this elimination takes place, but it seems to be going fast. Apparently, tonight they sing in small groups and either the group goes on to the next round (all of them) or they go home (all of them). So maybe tonight we'll see them.
I imagine I'll tune in again. I guess I'm sort of hooked now that I have someone to root for!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Atta Boy!
Strong leader... Well liked... Unique sense of humor... Sounds like something we'd hear in a political campaign ad, but these were actually taken off Carter's first semester report card.
And like every well-rounded politician, the candidate also tends to be "silly in social situations" and will have to "concentrate on using time wisely."
Yes, we were pleased with the first semester efforts in fifth grade (4 A's, 3 B's) and the teacher comments. Plenty of good, but he's not perfect. In other words, no surprises. He's definitely our kid!
We're not the type of parents who pay our kids for A's and B's. Yet. Nothing against those who do. We just don't want him setting goals for the wrong reasons. We want him to enjoy the learning process however he can and get the most out of it. (When he gets to college, then he can pull the all-nighters to cram for a test and forget everything he studied a week later!)
So we gave him an "atta boy" and we did let him call Grandpa and Grandma to brag a bit. For now we'll just keep encouraging him to keep up the good work. (And we'll save our dollars for junior high when we know from experience that a little incentive can go a long way!)
And like every well-rounded politician, the candidate also tends to be "silly in social situations" and will have to "concentrate on using time wisely."
Yes, we were pleased with the first semester efforts in fifth grade (4 A's, 3 B's) and the teacher comments. Plenty of good, but he's not perfect. In other words, no surprises. He's definitely our kid!
We're not the type of parents who pay our kids for A's and B's. Yet. Nothing against those who do. We just don't want him setting goals for the wrong reasons. We want him to enjoy the learning process however he can and get the most out of it. (When he gets to college, then he can pull the all-nighters to cram for a test and forget everything he studied a week later!)
So we gave him an "atta boy" and we did let him call Grandpa and Grandma to brag a bit. For now we'll just keep encouraging him to keep up the good work. (And we'll save our dollars for junior high when we know from experience that a little incentive can go a long way!)
Monday, February 2, 2009
The Shadow Knows
That alarm came way too early this morning. By the time things settled down last night with Carter staying up late for the game and me tacking up towels by his leaky ceiling, I got to bed pretty late.
This morning came way too fast. After hitting the snooze a maximum number of times, then climbing out of my cocoon, I didn't give any thought to seeing if my shadow was coming with me into the shower. I have this sneaking suspicion, though, that the shadow was there. And we'll have 6 more weeks of winter.
Aren't Mondays challenging enough without carrying that knowledge around?
At least the atmosphere around work is a little more uplifting today as everyone recaps their favorite Super Bowl commercials. (A few people actually watched the game, too!) Poor Groundhog's Day just gets lost in the shuffle. But that gets pretty predictable anyway, doesn't it? When on Feb. 2 don't we have more winter on the horizon? (It's sort of a bogus holiday when you think about it.)
I just hope we don't have 6 more weeks of leaking roofs and icy roads. And I just hope my coffee will get done brewing so I can plug into another Monday. Have a good week!
This morning came way too fast. After hitting the snooze a maximum number of times, then climbing out of my cocoon, I didn't give any thought to seeing if my shadow was coming with me into the shower. I have this sneaking suspicion, though, that the shadow was there. And we'll have 6 more weeks of winter.
Aren't Mondays challenging enough without carrying that knowledge around?
At least the atmosphere around work is a little more uplifting today as everyone recaps their favorite Super Bowl commercials. (A few people actually watched the game, too!) Poor Groundhog's Day just gets lost in the shuffle. But that gets pretty predictable anyway, doesn't it? When on Feb. 2 don't we have more winter on the horizon? (It's sort of a bogus holiday when you think about it.)
I just hope we don't have 6 more weeks of leaking roofs and icy roads. And I just hope my coffee will get done brewing so I can plug into another Monday. Have a good week!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Super Sunday
Sunday, Jan. 25, 1981
Dear Diary,
The hostages came home today. The Raiders won the Super Bowl -- 27-10 -- and I thought for sure the Eagles would win...
Sunday, Jan. 24, 1982
Dear Diary,
Today was the Super Bowl. I bet Raylene 50 cents that the San Francisco 49ers would beat the Cincinnati Bengals. San Francisco won 26-21...
Trying to predict the winner of the Super Bowl is really a lucky guess no matter what the oddsmakers say. As evidenced by my teenage diary entries, you pretty much have a 50-50 chance. I mean both teams have to be pretty good to have made it this far, right?
I didn't really care who won today as long as it was a good, close game. If, as a bonus, I won some money that would be OK, too. It didn't exactly go as planned.
First, I didn't feel that great all day -- like I'm on the fringe of having the flu or something. But I laid down awhile after lunch and was willing to carry on. (I had done all that Super Bowl baking, after all!) Son number one came out around 3 to watch Carter and we headed to our party. It was good to see our friends Mike & Steen and whole slew of people we normally only see during the summer at the races. Not exactly a quiet bunch -- but we're all too old to be getting into too much trouble.
I've got to hand it to Dreamworks and their marketing of the Monsters & Aliens movie. Who would of thought we'd have a basement full of people (mostly over 40) wearing 3-D glasses to watch one commercial? It was kinda of funny. Too bad the commercial wasn't as cool as I'd hoped.
Our entertainment ended some time in the third quarter when hubby's cell phone rang. It was Carter reporting water is leaking into his room. So we headed home to what we knew was probably an "ice dam" on the roof like we had last year. Damn, indeed! Jim got up on the roof with the axe while I scanned for other leaks inside.
At least we both caught the exciting end of the game. Pretty sure neither of us won money. We could have used that for our "roof fund." Maybe next year. But I'm not betting on it.
Dear Diary,
The hostages came home today. The Raiders won the Super Bowl -- 27-10 -- and I thought for sure the Eagles would win...
Sunday, Jan. 24, 1982
Dear Diary,
Today was the Super Bowl. I bet Raylene 50 cents that the San Francisco 49ers would beat the Cincinnati Bengals. San Francisco won 26-21...
Trying to predict the winner of the Super Bowl is really a lucky guess no matter what the oddsmakers say. As evidenced by my teenage diary entries, you pretty much have a 50-50 chance. I mean both teams have to be pretty good to have made it this far, right?
I didn't really care who won today as long as it was a good, close game. If, as a bonus, I won some money that would be OK, too. It didn't exactly go as planned.
First, I didn't feel that great all day -- like I'm on the fringe of having the flu or something. But I laid down awhile after lunch and was willing to carry on. (I had done all that Super Bowl baking, after all!) Son number one came out around 3 to watch Carter and we headed to our party. It was good to see our friends Mike & Steen and whole slew of people we normally only see during the summer at the races. Not exactly a quiet bunch -- but we're all too old to be getting into too much trouble.
I've got to hand it to Dreamworks and their marketing of the Monsters & Aliens movie. Who would of thought we'd have a basement full of people (mostly over 40) wearing 3-D glasses to watch one commercial? It was kinda of funny. Too bad the commercial wasn't as cool as I'd hoped.
Our entertainment ended some time in the third quarter when hubby's cell phone rang. It was Carter reporting water is leaking into his room. So we headed home to what we knew was probably an "ice dam" on the roof like we had last year. Damn, indeed! Jim got up on the roof with the axe while I scanned for other leaks inside.
At least we both caught the exciting end of the game. Pretty sure neither of us won money. We could have used that for our "roof fund." Maybe next year. But I'm not betting on it.
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