welkin(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
the vault of heaven, the sky or upper air: now chiefly in 'make the welkin ring,' to make a very loud sound.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Word of the Week - WELKIN
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's close and also nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Thoughts of May Bring a Different Sort of Tribulation
Weekend Blogging 4/28-4/29: Post here if you update your blog! Leave a prompt if you have one!
Unlike Snowmoon, I don't have the luxury of seeing hummingbirds zip through the yard (yet). But thoughts of May do bring a different sort of luxury.
The month of May is when Pan and I travel to Orlando for a week. This year will take us to Universal Studios instead of Disney. We haven't been there in 5 or 6 years so it will be a change. Still I had gotten pretty comfortable at Disney. I knew my way around.
May also heralds in a score of birthdays. My sister's is on the first; Indy's on the 13th and the Ballerina's on the 16th. ddpup will be 49 this year; Indy will be 3 and the Ballerina will be 4. Gosh the little ones are growning so fast. Too fast.
Scamp called me last night to let me know that whenever the Ballerina wants to do something and he says "no," she tells him that Tink and Pan had said it was okay. Slick little imp. Gotta love her.
Then Indy has developed a liking for Darth Maul and knows exactly who he is and can say his name. He knows the others too if you ask him to point them out; but if you point to one and ask him who it is, he is not quite as sure.
Yes they are growing up way to fast.
Unlike Snowmoon, I don't have the luxury of seeing hummingbirds zip through the yard (yet). But thoughts of May do bring a different sort of luxury.
The month of May is when Pan and I travel to Orlando for a week. This year will take us to Universal Studios instead of Disney. We haven't been there in 5 or 6 years so it will be a change. Still I had gotten pretty comfortable at Disney. I knew my way around.
May also heralds in a score of birthdays. My sister's is on the first; Indy's on the 13th and the Ballerina's on the 16th. ddpup will be 49 this year; Indy will be 3 and the Ballerina will be 4. Gosh the little ones are growning so fast. Too fast.
Scamp called me last night to let me know that whenever the Ballerina wants to do something and he says "no," she tells him that Tink and Pan had said it was okay. Slick little imp. Gotta love her.
Then Indy has developed a liking for Darth Maul and knows exactly who he is and can say his name. He knows the others too if you ask him to point them out; but if you point to one and ask him who it is, he is not quite as sure.
Yes they are growing up way to fast.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Tribulations of a Comedic Sort
Friday 4/27 Blog Prompt: Let's finish the week off with a laugh. Tell a funny story or your favorite joke.
When she was younger one of the jobs Bombshell told us she wanted was to be a stand-up comic (the other was a physical therapist to the elderly). She use to dress up with her trusty side kick and in would bound Wonderwear and Underbra. (Underbra was either the cat or the gerbil, depending on which one she could catch). One night at dinner she was regaling us with her newest routine. It was a story that went on for nearly half an hour. That is what I was going to share; but I can't seem to find where I saved it at or where it is located on my sister's blog. If I find it, I will share; but in the meantime this will have to do. (JASN: Bombshell really would have made a great stand-up comic).
The other day Bombshell called Pan and needed him to come back over and look at her surround sound. She lost the instructions he left for her when he finished installing it and she couldn't get it to work. So over we head.
Indy was absolutely thrilled to see him as Bombshell picked up the kids before Pan made it home that day. On top of which Indy had been watching the Backyardigans that day and Uniqua wanted to be a stand-up comic and tell knock knock jokes. (see a pattern here?)
Pan is looking over the remotes when Indy comes up and knocks on his forehead. Pan looks up in shock and Indy says "knock knock." Pan is still in shock when I hiss "say who's there?" So he does and Indy comes back with banana
Pan: Banana who
Indy: Apple
Tink: Indy, that's suppose to be orange
Indy: Knock knock (raps him on the head again)
Pan: Who's there
Indy: Banana
Pan: Banana who
Indy: Knock knock (raps him on the head yet again)
Pan: Who's there
Indy: Orange
Pan: Orange who?
Indy: Orange juice
You know this really loses a lot in the translation. One, you really had to see Pan's face everytime Indy rapped him the forehead. Secondly you would have had to see his face when Indy did his comebacks. I don't Pan really understands knock knock jokes as he would get this glazed look on his face. Then again, I guess, it could just be a symptom of being hit in the head repeatedly.
When she was younger one of the jobs Bombshell told us she wanted was to be a stand-up comic (the other was a physical therapist to the elderly). She use to dress up with her trusty side kick and in would bound Wonderwear and Underbra. (Underbra was either the cat or the gerbil, depending on which one she could catch). One night at dinner she was regaling us with her newest routine. It was a story that went on for nearly half an hour. That is what I was going to share; but I can't seem to find where I saved it at or where it is located on my sister's blog. If I find it, I will share; but in the meantime this will have to do. (JASN: Bombshell really would have made a great stand-up comic).
The other day Bombshell called Pan and needed him to come back over and look at her surround sound. She lost the instructions he left for her when he finished installing it and she couldn't get it to work. So over we head.
Indy was absolutely thrilled to see him as Bombshell picked up the kids before Pan made it home that day. On top of which Indy had been watching the Backyardigans that day and Uniqua wanted to be a stand-up comic and tell knock knock jokes. (see a pattern here?)
Pan is looking over the remotes when Indy comes up and knocks on his forehead. Pan looks up in shock and Indy says "knock knock." Pan is still in shock when I hiss "say who's there?" So he does and Indy comes back with banana
Pan: Banana who
Indy: Apple
Tink: Indy, that's suppose to be orange
Indy: Knock knock (raps him on the head again)
Pan: Who's there
Indy: Banana
Pan: Banana who
Indy: Knock knock (raps him on the head yet again)
Pan: Who's there
Indy: Orange
Pan: Orange who?
Indy: Orange juice
You know this really loses a lot in the translation. One, you really had to see Pan's face everytime Indy rapped him the forehead. Secondly you would have had to see his face when Indy did his comebacks. I don't Pan really understands knock knock jokes as he would get this glazed look on his face. Then again, I guess, it could just be a symptom of being hit in the head repeatedly.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
A Tribulation to Success
Thursday 4/26 Blog Prompt: Great job on the poetry yesterday, ladies Today's is....What is your definition of 'success'? Do you know any 'successful' people who inspire you?
suc·cess (sƏk-sĕs)
n. 1. The achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted
I guess by this definition I am pretty darn successful. There are few things that I have attempted that I have not achieved. I have a successful marriage; a successful relationship with my children; successful careers, etc.
And those that have helped make the above so successful are the ones who inspired me to achieve those goals: Pan, my children, my parents, my sisters (and their families) and my grandchildren; with a smathering of friends thrown in for good measure.
suc·cess (sƏk-sĕs)
n. 1. The achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted
I guess by this definition I am pretty darn successful. There are few things that I have attempted that I have not achieved. I have a successful marriage; a successful relationship with my children; successful careers, etc.
And those that have helped make the above so successful are the ones who inspired me to achieve those goals: Pan, my children, my parents, my sisters (and their families) and my grandchildren; with a smathering of friends thrown in for good measure.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Tribulations of a Creative Cookie Haiku
Monday 4/23 Blog Prompt: Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! Here's todays - Is there a time of the day when you feel most creative?
Of course there is.... When I should be doing something else, in fact. Like dishes, making the bed scrubbing the toilet, etc. Isn't every more creative when they are trying to get out of doing something they dislike? Or is it just me?
Tuesday 4/24 Blog Prompt: How about food? I love talking about food and I've been hungry for homemade cookies. What's your favorite cookie? Do you make it? Does someone else? Do you buy it?
Wow. I haven't had cookies in ages. My mom use to make wedding cookies that I really liked growing up. They were crumbly and rolled in powdered sugar. And I even like Chocolate Crinkle cookies; even though nowadays, I don't care for chocolate. These days I really like the oatmeal cookies the husband of a friend of mine makes. Yummy.
Wednesday 4/25 Blog Prompt: Let's write a poem. Try a haiku, rhyming, or any other style you like.
Seems I have done this before and at that time it was about Indy as well. But here it goes:
Running rapidly
through the house, undeterred
by the obstacles
Of course there is.... When I should be doing something else, in fact. Like dishes, making the bed scrubbing the toilet, etc. Isn't every more creative when they are trying to get out of doing something they dislike? Or is it just me?
Tuesday 4/24 Blog Prompt: How about food? I love talking about food and I've been hungry for homemade cookies. What's your favorite cookie? Do you make it? Does someone else? Do you buy it?
Wow. I haven't had cookies in ages. My mom use to make wedding cookies that I really liked growing up. They were crumbly and rolled in powdered sugar. And I even like Chocolate Crinkle cookies; even though nowadays, I don't care for chocolate. These days I really like the oatmeal cookies the husband of a friend of mine makes. Yummy.
Wednesday 4/25 Blog Prompt: Let's write a poem. Try a haiku, rhyming, or any other style you like.
Seems I have done this before and at that time it was about Indy as well. But here it goes:
Running rapidly
through the house, undeterred
by the obstacles
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Word of the Week - VELITATION
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's close and also nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
velitation(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
a hostile encounter; skirmish or dispute.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Tribulations of a Boring, Lyrical, Life
Thurs 4/19 Blog Prompt: What is the most tedious or boring part of your daily routine/job? What is the most creative?
The most tedious part of my daily routine is constantly picking up after Indy. It seems that no matter how much I pick up he finds something else to pull out. And the most creative, is trying to find ways to keep him entertained while I try to do other housework (doesn't work, lol); ie, get Thomas the Train sets down for him, run into the kitchen to clean a few dishes. "Tink, Tink, come look." Around the corner I peek. He is sitting in front of Pan's computer with the Civilazation III disk in his hand. "Indy, what are you doing?" With a big smile on his face he opens the cd drive and there sits a coupon. Arrrrrggggghhhhhh, Pan is going to kill us both. "Indy, that's a no-no, put the disc back into the drive." With the smile dropping into a quiver the coupon comes out and the disc goes back in. Anybody want to trade days?
Friday 4/20 Blog Prompt: How about a fun one to end the week? Think of one person in your life. Then pick a song that you think 'fits' them. (Of course if you want to do this for every person you know, who's going to stop you?) Happy Friday!
What a neat prompt and one that is actually fairly easy at this point since I have been doing an ABC album for the Princess which incorporates songs. So without further ado I will introduce you to the songs and the Princess who inspired me to use them:
Anything But Ordinary by Avril Lavigne
Me & I by Abba
Ocean Girl by Neil Young
Remember Me This Way from Casper the Friendly Ghost
Weekend Blogging 4/22-4/23: How about a prelude to June? Spend 5 minutes writing about your advice for having a fulfulled life.
First and foremost you have always heard that you will see the world through new eyes if you spend time with a toddler? In all honesty that holds true for all ages. First you see the world at a height of about 3 feet; but at 5 school starts and it is another whole new world. First grade brings in the start of really growing up and changing and seeing the world in a light that incorporates other people. And so it goes on for each age. Because as your children (grandchildren, nieces, nephews, etc) are getting older, so are you. Stop, slow down and look at the world through each age of your child. Miracles are always there.
Listen, do you hear it? Shhhhhh..... there it is again. The wind in the trees are soothing. The bleak grey day is comforting. The sunny white sand of the beach is calling you play. Listen to the sounds of your day.
What is that you just said? Another time to listen. Listen to what is being said. Really listen.....
The most tedious part of my daily routine is constantly picking up after Indy. It seems that no matter how much I pick up he finds something else to pull out. And the most creative, is trying to find ways to keep him entertained while I try to do other housework (doesn't work, lol); ie, get Thomas the Train sets down for him, run into the kitchen to clean a few dishes. "Tink, Tink, come look." Around the corner I peek. He is sitting in front of Pan's computer with the Civilazation III disk in his hand. "Indy, what are you doing?" With a big smile on his face he opens the cd drive and there sits a coupon. Arrrrrggggghhhhhh, Pan is going to kill us both. "Indy, that's a no-no, put the disc back into the drive." With the smile dropping into a quiver the coupon comes out and the disc goes back in. Anybody want to trade days?
Friday 4/20 Blog Prompt: How about a fun one to end the week? Think of one person in your life. Then pick a song that you think 'fits' them. (Of course if you want to do this for every person you know, who's going to stop you?) Happy Friday!
What a neat prompt and one that is actually fairly easy at this point since I have been doing an ABC album for the Princess which incorporates songs. So without further ado I will introduce you to the songs and the Princess who inspired me to use them:
Anything But Ordinary by Avril Lavigne
Me & I by Abba
Ocean Girl by Neil Young
Remember Me This Way from Casper the Friendly GhostWeekend Blogging 4/22-4/23: How about a prelude to June? Spend 5 minutes writing about your advice for having a fulfulled life.
First and foremost you have always heard that you will see the world through new eyes if you spend time with a toddler? In all honesty that holds true for all ages. First you see the world at a height of about 3 feet; but at 5 school starts and it is another whole new world. First grade brings in the start of really growing up and changing and seeing the world in a light that incorporates other people. And so it goes on for each age. Because as your children (grandchildren, nieces, nephews, etc) are getting older, so are you. Stop, slow down and look at the world through each age of your child. Miracles are always there.
Listen, do you hear it? Shhhhhh..... there it is again. The wind in the trees are soothing. The bleak grey day is comforting. The sunny white sand of the beach is calling you play. Listen to the sounds of your day.
What is that you just said? Another time to listen. Listen to what is being said. Really listen.....
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Colorful Tribulations
Wed 4/18 Blog Prompt: What's your favorite color? Describe it. Has it always been your favorite? Why is it your favorite?
I'm still thinking on yesterday's. :)
Well I told the Princess my favorite color was periwinkle. I have always liked pale purplish blue hue; not quite as bold at lavender or purple itself, but rather subtle, just outside the eyes vision. When I think of periwinkle, I think about some of the shells we use to collect at the beach (when there actually were shells to collect). More than anything, though, I just like the name
I'm still thinking on yesterday's. :)
Well I told the Princess my favorite color was periwinkle. I have always liked pale purplish blue hue; not quite as bold at lavender or purple itself, but rather subtle, just outside the eyes vision. When I think of periwinkle, I think about some of the shells we use to collect at the beach (when there actually were shells to collect). More than anything, though, I just like the name
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Tribulations of Gi-normous Proportions
Tuesday 4/17: Today we'll put on our thinking caps and get a little creative. Here's the background: I heard someone use the word "gi-normous" the other day (obviously a mashing of 'gigantic' and 'enormous') and it made me think how descriptive it is. So your assignment is - Make up a word--a blending of two or more words -- that describes your best qualities.
I came up with one, but was told my higher powers (my mother) that it really isn't what a made up word. I had called her to ask about words to describe my best qualities and she came up with things like dependable, trustworthy and communicates well. Okay that last one is two words.
But I decided to use dependable and communicate to come with a new word to describe myself and came up with.... Are you ready yet?
Communicable.
I came up with one, but was told my higher powers (my mother) that it really isn't what a made up word. I had called her to ask about words to describe my best qualities and she came up with things like dependable, trustworthy and communicates well. Okay that last one is two words.
But I decided to use dependable and communicate to come with a new word to describe myself and came up with.... Are you ready yet?
Communicable.
Monday, April 16, 2007
A Caveful of Crystal Tribuations
Monday 4/16 Blog Prompt: Since we haven't done a reading prompt in awhile, let's talk about books (one of my most favorite topics!). Are you currently reading anything that you'd recommend? Or maybe you have an old favorite that you recommend to everyone.
Okay so I was getting a little silly with a title. But I am currently re-reading " The Crystal Cave" by Mary Stewart. I also realized today that I cannot find the second book "The Hollow Hills," I found the third and fourth books though. Still it just wouldn't be the same if I couldn't read them in order.
I have always loved The Crystal Cave and the research she put into her book on Merlin. He loses none of his mystique by being portrayed as a man instead of a magician. Well, okay, he has visions, but many people throughout history have. You can relate to him as a person; one who has had a difficult childhood and amazing adult life being a counsellor to kings.
I have always been an Authurian fanatic; having read just about all the books about King Arthur I could find; but I have that Mary Stewart has put the stories into a more realistic light. After reading the Crystal Cave you just don't look at Merlin the same way anymore.
Okay so I was getting a little silly with a title. But I am currently re-reading " The Crystal Cave" by Mary Stewart. I also realized today that I cannot find the second book "The Hollow Hills," I found the third and fourth books though. Still it just wouldn't be the same if I couldn't read them in order.
I have always loved The Crystal Cave and the research she put into her book on Merlin. He loses none of his mystique by being portrayed as a man instead of a magician. Well, okay, he has visions, but many people throughout history have. You can relate to him as a person; one who has had a difficult childhood and amazing adult life being a counsellor to kings.
I have always been an Authurian fanatic; having read just about all the books about King Arthur I could find; but I have that Mary Stewart has put the stories into a more realistic light. After reading the Crystal Cave you just don't look at Merlin the same way anymore.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Tribulations of a Childhood Pastime
Weekend Blogging 4/14 - 4/15: What was your favorite pastime as a child? Did you prefer doing it alone, or with someone else?
I don't ever really remember doing anything alone as a child. My most memorable pastime was when we were living in Blytheville, Arkansas. During the summer we used to play hide and seek until after dark. There were about a dozen of us kids and we had the run of the neighborhood. In the spring the field between the houses was alive with clover and honey bees. I remember we would go into the fields and pick lots of clover then string them together to make a necklace and bracelet. Winter was snowball fights and building snowmen. Sitting in the living room with hot cocoa and watching Jungle Jim on Saturday mornings. Autumn brought in a new school year and less time for playing or maybe it just felt that way.
I don't ever really remember doing anything alone as a child. My most memorable pastime was when we were living in Blytheville, Arkansas. During the summer we used to play hide and seek until after dark. There were about a dozen of us kids and we had the run of the neighborhood. In the spring the field between the houses was alive with clover and honey bees. I remember we would go into the fields and pick lots of clover then string them together to make a necklace and bracelet. Winter was snowball fights and building snowmen. Sitting in the living room with hot cocoa and watching Jungle Jim on Saturday mornings. Autumn brought in a new school year and less time for playing or maybe it just felt that way.
Superstitions and Tribulations
Friday 4/13: Friday the Thirteenth!!Are you superstitious? Does the thought of 'Friday the 13th' make you nervous?
I didn't even realize it was Friday the 13th until Pan told me about half way through the day. Guess you could say I am not very superstitious; at least I don't believe in throwing salt over your shoulder or that walking under a ladder is bad luck. But neither do I carry a good luck charm around. No horseshoes and at my wedding we shoot the guests with high powered water guns.
Though in an untraditional way, I guess I am superstitious. Like when I got pregnant with my daughter.... My mother kept telling me I was pregnant and I kept denying it. Finally just to appease her I went to the doctor and had the test done. Yep, I was pregnant and it was all her fault. If she had not said anything, I wouldn't have been.
I didn't even realize it was Friday the 13th until Pan told me about half way through the day. Guess you could say I am not very superstitious; at least I don't believe in throwing salt over your shoulder or that walking under a ladder is bad luck. But neither do I carry a good luck charm around. No horseshoes and at my wedding we shoot the guests with high powered water guns.
Though in an untraditional way, I guess I am superstitious. Like when I got pregnant with my daughter.... My mother kept telling me I was pregnant and I kept denying it. Finally just to appease her I went to the doctor and had the test done. Yep, I was pregnant and it was all her fault. If she had not said anything, I wouldn't have been.
A Tag of Tribulations
Thursday 4/12 Blog Prompt: Tagged!!
Four jobs I've had:
1. Wife
2. Mother
3. Legal Assistant
4. Graphic Artist
Four movies I've watched over and over:
1. Hunt for Red October
2. Independence Day
3. Asteroid
4. All three of the LOTRs
Four places I've lived:
1. South Dakota
2. Massachusetts
3. Arkansas
4. Guam
Four tv shows I like(d) to watch:
1. Stargate SG-1
2. Eureka
3. Smallville
4. NCIS
Four places I've been on vacation:
1. Orlando
2. Hong Kong
3. New Orleans
4. Honolulu
Four of my favorite foods:
1. Shrimp, steak and veggies cooked on a teppan table
2. Spaghetti
3. Italian Tomato & fresh mozzarella salad
4. Cherry or Italian tomatoes stuffed with chicken salad
Four people I'll tag
1. You,
2. You,
3. You,
4. And, oh, you.
Four jobs I've had:
1. Wife
2. Mother
3. Legal Assistant
4. Graphic Artist
Four movies I've watched over and over:
1. Hunt for Red October
2. Independence Day
3. Asteroid
4. All three of the LOTRs
Four places I've lived:
1. South Dakota
2. Massachusetts
3. Arkansas
4. Guam
Four tv shows I like(d) to watch:
1. Stargate SG-1
2. Eureka
3. Smallville
4. NCIS
Four places I've been on vacation:
1. Orlando
2. Hong Kong
3. New Orleans
4. Honolulu
Four of my favorite foods:
1. Shrimp, steak and veggies cooked on a teppan table
2. Spaghetti
3. Italian Tomato & fresh mozzarella salad
4. Cherry or Italian tomatoes stuffed with chicken salad
Four people I'll tag
1. You,
2. You,
3. You,
4. And, oh, you.
Word of the Week - VIATOR
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's close and also nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
viator(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
a traveler; wayfarer.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
The Tribulations of being an Older Sister
Wednesday 4/11 Blog Prompt: Where I am, it's still April 10th and I was informed by my little sis that today is Siblings Day!In honor of Sibling's Day, talk about your relationship with your siblings. If you don't have any, tell us how you feel about that.
Strange that this one should come up now.... I have a very good relationship with both of my sisters. We can talk to one another and we have interests that are in common other than just being family. More than anything I happen to like my sisters. They are fun, witty and smart. The bug actually set up my blog and got me into doing it. And she has kindly consented to letting me post a picture of her. So it is years old and she doesn't really look like that anymore, except for the expression.
Strange that this one should come up now.... I have a very good relationship with both of my sisters. We can talk to one another and we have interests that are in common other than just being family. More than anything I happen to like my sisters. They are fun, witty and smart. The bug actually set up my blog and got me into doing it. And she has kindly consented to letting me post a picture of her. So it is years old and she doesn't really look like that anymore, except for the expression.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Product Tribulations
Tuesday 4/10 Blog Prompt: Free Advertising!! Are there three products in your life that you just love (favorite scrapping designer? a cleaning product that does what it claims? or your favorite restaurant?)? Tell us about them! (Add links and maybe we'll decide we can't live without them either)
I just love my rice bowls and chopsticks. I have several sets of chopsticks but my favorite is the set from my DIL's parents. My rice bowls have covers that also serve as sauce bowls.
I also love my steel griddle that fits over four burners that I use for teppan style cooking. We finally brought my dad's grill home and I have discovered that it came with a smaller griddle and that my big one will fit on it as well; so I can cook outside without smoking up the house
There is a cleaning product that I have found really, really works. I hate cleaning toilet bowls; and when I finally found Bowl Blaster in the store I shop, I picked it up to try it. And I works like a charm.
I just love my rice bowls and chopsticks. I have several sets of chopsticks but my favorite is the set from my DIL's parents. My rice bowls have covers that also serve as sauce bowls.
I also love my steel griddle that fits over four burners that I use for teppan style cooking. We finally brought my dad's grill home and I have discovered that it came with a smaller griddle and that my big one will fit on it as well; so I can cook outside without smoking up the house
There is a cleaning product that I have found really, really works. I hate cleaning toilet bowls; and when I finally found Bowl Blaster in the store I shop, I picked it up to try it. And I works like a charm.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Springy Tribulations
Monday Blog Prompt 4/9: Spring always means change or growth. Any changes or growth going on in your life?
Before I get onto the prompt, I earlier told you about a surprise.... Well, now it is official. Loonyhiker, gracelikerain and myself are talking over the blog prompts for Meg. I am so excited to be working with two great persons as them.
Now on to the prompt. Well this spring has definitely brought on a change hasn't it? LOL. And I hope that I am continually growing as a person. Biggest change right now has been moving my computer into another room other than the living room. I find that I spend more time with my family playing games and watching television than in front of the monitor. Except the last couple of days when I didn't have the kids and could just relax.
Before I get onto the prompt, I earlier told you about a surprise.... Well, now it is official. Loonyhiker, gracelikerain and myself are talking over the blog prompts for Meg. I am so excited to be working with two great persons as them.
Now on to the prompt. Well this spring has definitely brought on a change hasn't it? LOL. And I hope that I am continually growing as a person. Biggest change right now has been moving my computer into another room other than the living room. I find that I spend more time with my family playing games and watching television than in front of the monitor. Except the last couple of days when I didn't have the kids and could just relax.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Word of the Week - XYLOGRAPHY
Disclaimer: All words that I choose come from the 1968 edition of the Webster's New World Dictionary, 2nd college edition. It's close and also nearly 40 years old so we may come across some words that are no longer in general use or have completely changed definitions. But that is part of the fun.
xylography(n)Why not take a moment and see what you can do with it. Use it as a jump start for a short story; if applicable, find a picture of it; let us know how you would incorporate it into your daily life. Whatever you do, post a comment or a link so I can check it out and put a link back to your post. And have fun.
the art of making woodcuts or wood engravings.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
UPDATE to a Week of Blog Prompts
If you read my list of "A" words, then no doubt you will have realized that this has not been a most productive week. Pan suggests that I add annoyed to it as well. What a great "A" word and it did not even cross the hemisphere of my brains.
What prompted this post though is one of the fundraising solicitors for the police department. They have been calling all week. They called at 8 a.m., the one morning that Pan took a day off to sleep in. The guy I talked to today swears it wasn't his organization; but his is the only one I have been solicited by in the past month.
Let me say this first (just in case the rude guy I was talking to, hey I was rude first, but I wasn't asking for money, is reading this), I, probably more than most really respect our law enforcement officers (that goes for paramedics, firemen, etc). They do a hard job and don't get nearly the credit they deserve. So I really resent these fundraising solicitors who "collect" money for the organizations and then keep some of it. Sorry in my mind they shouldn't keep any.
Way back, when I lived in P'cola, the fire department and police department who had people living in the neighborhood would come door to door with identification to solicite for their organizations. Honey, let me tell you I was the first one with cash or check in hand to help them out. These gals and guys were doing this on their own time; devoting a couple of hours to support their organizations. I love them. Even if it meant going without dinners out or a month's worth of cigarettes (I smoked then); it was something I was willing and still willing to do.
Now though we have these fundraising companies who keep half the money. In the midst of the conversation today, though, I specifically asked that I be sent a detailed report on how the money would be allocated. That if I deemed it to be of value and that the police (or their families) would be the real beneficiaries of the donation, then I would most certainly consider donating. Where he sent me was to www.flstatefop.org. Nope, didn't work. So on my own I researched and found www.floridastatefop.org. Surprisingly enough I could not find anything about how the donations were applied.
So if you are an officer of the law reading this, I applaud you and all that you do; but please understand that I will be heading down to my nearest law enforcement office with check in hand to be devoted entirely to your organization and not to some fundraising facility supposedly representing you.
What prompted this post though is one of the fundraising solicitors for the police department. They have been calling all week. They called at 8 a.m., the one morning that Pan took a day off to sleep in. The guy I talked to today swears it wasn't his organization; but his is the only one I have been solicited by in the past month.
Let me say this first (just in case the rude guy I was talking to, hey I was rude first, but I wasn't asking for money, is reading this), I, probably more than most really respect our law enforcement officers (that goes for paramedics, firemen, etc). They do a hard job and don't get nearly the credit they deserve. So I really resent these fundraising solicitors who "collect" money for the organizations and then keep some of it. Sorry in my mind they shouldn't keep any.
Way back, when I lived in P'cola, the fire department and police department who had people living in the neighborhood would come door to door with identification to solicite for their organizations. Honey, let me tell you I was the first one with cash or check in hand to help them out. These gals and guys were doing this on their own time; devoting a couple of hours to support their organizations. I love them. Even if it meant going without dinners out or a month's worth of cigarettes (I smoked then); it was something I was willing and still willing to do.
Now though we have these fundraising companies who keep half the money. In the midst of the conversation today, though, I specifically asked that I be sent a detailed report on how the money would be allocated. That if I deemed it to be of value and that the police (or their families) would be the real beneficiaries of the donation, then I would most certainly consider donating. Where he sent me was to www.flstatefop.org. Nope, didn't work. So on my own I researched and found www.floridastatefop.org. Surprisingly enough I could not find anything about how the donations were applied.
So if you are an officer of the law reading this, I applaud you and all that you do; but please understand that I will be heading down to my nearest law enforcement office with check in hand to be devoted entirely to your organization and not to some fundraising facility supposedly representing you.
Surprises & Tribulations
I have a surprise and I'm not going to tell you, nahnee, nahnee, nahneeeee.... :P
At least not yet. You will have to stay tuned to see what it is......
At least not yet. You will have to stay tuned to see what it is......
Friday, April 06, 2007
Satin Steel Tribulations
As I was, in my sorrowful state, surfing through Digital Scrapbook Place, I came across one of the challenges that really looked fun. One that requires the use of the plug-in, Virtual Photographer. One that DSP Muse and moderator, Ann Maree is hosting. First you need the plug-in and install it. Then every two weeks she picks one of the presets for you to use. Designer Tina Chambers, kindly provided a before & after template. Now, of course, I missed the first two; and found it as they were starting on the 3rd preset.
But I thought I might go ahead and upload my tries with the Satin Steel preset here. I made two with landscapes and two with portraits.
This is a very nice one for that dreamy look. I think it looks better used on the photo of the Princess, because there seems to be better contrast throughout the photo than on the others.
I think I am going to have some real fun with this plug-in. But now I'm going to get off the computer for awhile and go play Star Wars.
But I thought I might go ahead and upload my tries with the Satin Steel preset here. I made two with landscapes and two with portraits.
This is a very nice one for that dreamy look. I think it looks better used on the photo of the Princess, because there seems to be better contrast throughout the photo than on the others.
I think I am going to have some real fun with this plug-in. But now I'm going to get off the computer for awhile and go play Star Wars.
The Week in Blog Prompts and Tribulations
I have been just so blah lately. Can't seem to get into a mood for anything or anyone for that matter. :(
Mon 4/2 Blog Prompt: Blow out the candles and make a wish! What did you wish for and why?
Blank, I'm totally blank. Guess I wish my daughter would quit believing Indy's dad each time he says he's going to pick him up. When he calls with more excuses or tries to blame the miscommunication on her, it just upsets her and me, since I am the one who usually ends up having to change my plans.
Tues 4/3 Blog Prompt: I decided to do another letter of the day. Since I enjoyed so much doing the letter "G" last week I decided to start with letter "A" Boy, it took me longer than usual to think of 10 words that start with A. Letter of the Day is "A" (thanks to mom2triplets04)
Angry. See above
Abeyance. Does seem that my time is always in abeyance to the needs of others. I need to take a stand, put my foot down. And I won't.
Antacids. What I really need to buy in bulk.
Adamant. I am adamently opposed to men who just want to see their kids to upset their mothers, who tell their kids they are going to pick them up then call the mother at the last minute to say they are coming and it is up to her to tell them.
Aggravated. That I am still here waiting for the idiot to show up. Why don't I just get Indy dressed and leave? Shortly I will.
Ashamed. That I am being so petty and grouchy this week.
Altruistic. I really wish I wouldn't be so. Constantly trying to look out for others and doing what is best for them is trying on oneself.
Ability. I need to work on my scrapbooking and journaling ability more. I need time to do so. I need...
Active. Definitely need to be more active in obtaining my goals. Need to let go of those things that don't facilitate my emotional growth and gather close to me those that do.
Abject. More of how I feel this week. Notice a flow here?
Wed 4/4 Blog Prompt: So, in reference to my yesterday.... What do you do when you find yourself overbooked? Are you someone that pushes through and collapses at the end? Cancel out selectively and give yourself breathing room? Or maybe curl up in the fetal position and cry?
Boy, do I really want to go here after the last one? I push on and on and on. Holding it all in until one day I explode. Then do I ever feel guilty afterwards. Even if I was in the right.
Thurs 4/5 Blog Prompt: Muse: a source of inspiration; especially : a guiding genius. What would you consider to be your muse? Why?
Got to admit that the grands really are a source of inspiration. Their ability to look at the world with eyes full of innocence and love. The sparkle that gleams from their eyes from a new bug or even a stick. I'm not talking just about Indy and Ballerina; but even from 7 1/2 year old Princess. Each age sees things in such a different light and I love to listen to them talk about it or just look at it.
Friday 4/6 Blog Prompt: Okaaaaaay, so yesterday's prompt was a bust! Oh well, let's do an easy one for Friday. How about a weekly wrap up and also your plans for Easter weekend.
If you have gotten this far down, then you can pretty well tell how my week went. Badly... Badly, because I let it get that way instead of taking the initiative to make it better.
As for the Easter weekend, Pan and I will probably stay around the house and wish the kids were here with us instead of with their fathers and other grandparents. We will try to relax and enjoy the weekend anyway and reflect on the ways we can improve the house and play video games together. Maybe even find some time to talk.
Mon 4/2 Blog Prompt: Blow out the candles and make a wish! What did you wish for and why?
Blank, I'm totally blank. Guess I wish my daughter would quit believing Indy's dad each time he says he's going to pick him up. When he calls with more excuses or tries to blame the miscommunication on her, it just upsets her and me, since I am the one who usually ends up having to change my plans.
Tues 4/3 Blog Prompt: I decided to do another letter of the day. Since I enjoyed so much doing the letter "G" last week I decided to start with letter "A" Boy, it took me longer than usual to think of 10 words that start with A. Letter of the Day is "A" (thanks to mom2triplets04)
Angry. See above
Abeyance. Does seem that my time is always in abeyance to the needs of others. I need to take a stand, put my foot down. And I won't.
Antacids. What I really need to buy in bulk.
Adamant. I am adamently opposed to men who just want to see their kids to upset their mothers, who tell their kids they are going to pick them up then call the mother at the last minute to say they are coming and it is up to her to tell them.
Aggravated. That I am still here waiting for the idiot to show up. Why don't I just get Indy dressed and leave? Shortly I will.
Ashamed. That I am being so petty and grouchy this week.
Altruistic. I really wish I wouldn't be so. Constantly trying to look out for others and doing what is best for them is trying on oneself.
Ability. I need to work on my scrapbooking and journaling ability more. I need time to do so. I need...
Active. Definitely need to be more active in obtaining my goals. Need to let go of those things that don't facilitate my emotional growth and gather close to me those that do.
Abject. More of how I feel this week. Notice a flow here?
Wed 4/4 Blog Prompt: So, in reference to my yesterday.... What do you do when you find yourself overbooked? Are you someone that pushes through and collapses at the end? Cancel out selectively and give yourself breathing room? Or maybe curl up in the fetal position and cry?
Boy, do I really want to go here after the last one? I push on and on and on. Holding it all in until one day I explode. Then do I ever feel guilty afterwards. Even if I was in the right.
Thurs 4/5 Blog Prompt: Muse: a source of inspiration; especially : a guiding genius. What would you consider to be your muse? Why?
Got to admit that the grands really are a source of inspiration. Their ability to look at the world with eyes full of innocence and love. The sparkle that gleams from their eyes from a new bug or even a stick. I'm not talking just about Indy and Ballerina; but even from 7 1/2 year old Princess. Each age sees things in such a different light and I love to listen to them talk about it or just look at it.
Friday 4/6 Blog Prompt: Okaaaaaay, so yesterday's prompt was a bust! Oh well, let's do an easy one for Friday. How about a weekly wrap up and also your plans for Easter weekend.
If you have gotten this far down, then you can pretty well tell how my week went. Badly... Badly, because I let it get that way instead of taking the initiative to make it better.
As for the Easter weekend, Pan and I will probably stay around the house and wish the kids were here with us instead of with their fathers and other grandparents. We will try to relax and enjoy the weekend anyway and reflect on the ways we can improve the house and play video games together. Maybe even find some time to talk.
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