I was encouraged to read about the recent decision by Toyota to halt production and sales of several defective models. The autos in question accelerate unintentionally causing property damage as well as loss of life.
It is encouraging to see that the auto maker is willing to publicly admit failure and risk severe financial ramifications by halting sales. It almost makes me think big business has a conscience. Until of course you read further into it and find that this particular car problem has been going on for several years. That people who have experienced this defect were basically touted as blundering fools who didn't realize they hit the gas pedal. At least it is being addressed now.
But consider the effect of such a severe quality assurance issue. First the dealers who are unable to push these usually high selling cars in an already tight economy, are strapped. Then you have the auto workers who will inevitably be laid off when about 5 US assembly plants stop production. Whether US auto companies or foreign auto companies are involved, we are all affected.
How could such a dangerous defect pass the proving grounds and be allowed to linger? I can't help thinking that the need to make bigger profits and the unending focus on better efficiency, is hurting quality. I used to work with General Motors and Nissan (as clients) and recognize the unbelievable costs involved in product testing. But isn't that where the money should go? Or should it be dumped into 30 sec ad spots during the Super Bowl?
My husband drives a Lexus and has been complaining for the past year about the car taking off without his involvement. He has been told it is a mat problem, only after the first few times of being addressed as an imaginative crazy person. So what do we do? Give up on Lexus? We are running out of luxury car companies that earn confidence. Sure we can buy a new car, but what's to ensure quality of that vehicle.
I am scared.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Gardening Success
I am over the top excited! How exactly can you convey that in a blog? I thought about holding down the exclamation point key but that still wouldn't do it. I just received my personal certificate of appreciation and recognition from Buffalo in Bloom . The mission of this organization is to promote gardening throughout the city of Buffalo. And guess who was recognized?
When you go to the site you will see photos of the celebrated gardens for 2009. Keep in mind there are about 2500 gardens presented so I am not fooling myself into thinking that I am THAT special. But I am thrilled!
You see my gardening has been quite the joke for my family and friends. I cannot think of a more beautiful way to start every day then to walk past gorgeous flowers on your way to the garage or street. Unfortunately my green thumb is a little more black and blue in color. My gardening cycle usually starts with a trip to the nursery, a day of planting, an evening of satisfaction (celebrating with wine on the patio) and then the following week another trip to the nursery, a day of replacing the dead plants and an evening of relief. By the middle of August, the cycle is more like a day of closing my eyes past the yard, making excusing for the weeds and contemplating next year with hope. I have plenty of gardening equipment on the boulevard of broken dreams.
This past summer all that changed. I came home to find a small poster on my front lawn stating that my garden was noted by Buffalo in Bloom. Totally thought my neighbor or husband stole the sign from another yard and was playing a trick on me. Then I went to the door and found the official paperwork. That placard is still on my lawn, even in the snow. I was inspired.
To Mayor Brown and the co-chairs of Kate Bukowski and Maureen O'Connell, I say thank you. This recognition has only encouraged me to try even harder to make my little section of Buffalo more beautiful. I will not let you down this year. It will be bigger, better and in bloom longer! Today I plan my garden for this spring, after of course I stop by the frame shop to get my certificate mounted.
When you go to the site you will see photos of the celebrated gardens for 2009. Keep in mind there are about 2500 gardens presented so I am not fooling myself into thinking that I am THAT special. But I am thrilled!
You see my gardening has been quite the joke for my family and friends. I cannot think of a more beautiful way to start every day then to walk past gorgeous flowers on your way to the garage or street. Unfortunately my green thumb is a little more black and blue in color. My gardening cycle usually starts with a trip to the nursery, a day of planting, an evening of satisfaction (celebrating with wine on the patio) and then the following week another trip to the nursery, a day of replacing the dead plants and an evening of relief. By the middle of August, the cycle is more like a day of closing my eyes past the yard, making excusing for the weeds and contemplating next year with hope. I have plenty of gardening equipment on the boulevard of broken dreams.
This past summer all that changed. I came home to find a small poster on my front lawn stating that my garden was noted by Buffalo in Bloom. Totally thought my neighbor or husband stole the sign from another yard and was playing a trick on me. Then I went to the door and found the official paperwork. That placard is still on my lawn, even in the snow. I was inspired.
To Mayor Brown and the co-chairs of Kate Bukowski and Maureen O'Connell, I say thank you. This recognition has only encouraged me to try even harder to make my little section of Buffalo more beautiful. I will not let you down this year. It will be bigger, better and in bloom longer! Today I plan my garden for this spring, after of course I stop by the frame shop to get my certificate mounted.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Mistaken for a Boy
Not bad enough that I have to deal with the biological aging process and the emotional roller coaster of midlife, but here is the cherry on top of today's sundae. I was mistaken for a boy. I believe the exact comment was "Oh, I thought you were Evan my delivery boy". The sad part was that the gentleman making the comment was sweet, apologetic and apparently of sound mind and sight.
I'd like to believe it was because I had just come from a fairly intense workout. I was wearing jeans, low heeled motorcycle boots, a loose sweater and no make up, carrying a black case and running up the stairs (as usual I was late for an appt). Truth is the workout isn't toning as i'd like and the fat doesn't seem to be disintegrating as quickly as desired and I have never heard of a workout so intense that your gender was questioned.
I should probably be honest with myself and realize I need to start putting in a little more effort in the appearance department. Don't get me wrong. When I have an event, the clean up crew is engaged and the results are acceptable. But for everyday living, I have been slacking. My sweatpants and husband's XL Pantagonia jacket have become the new uniform. I walk the dog every morning in my pjs and ski cap. I am also starting to think it is acceptable to forgo grooming when I am not going to leave the house.. or if I am only making a quick stop. Of course you NEVER run into anyone when you look like hell right?
I'd also like to believe that I am above vanity and that appearances are insignificant. Then I look at some of my friends who are ALWAYS put together. Whether they are at Wegmans, a kid's football game or school drop off, the hair is done, the outfit coordinated and the teeth brushed. They also read, cook, take care of a household and some work. I've got to pull it together.
Done writing, have to schedule the manicurist and waxer.
I'd like to believe it was because I had just come from a fairly intense workout. I was wearing jeans, low heeled motorcycle boots, a loose sweater and no make up, carrying a black case and running up the stairs (as usual I was late for an appt). Truth is the workout isn't toning as i'd like and the fat doesn't seem to be disintegrating as quickly as desired and I have never heard of a workout so intense that your gender was questioned.
I should probably be honest with myself and realize I need to start putting in a little more effort in the appearance department. Don't get me wrong. When I have an event, the clean up crew is engaged and the results are acceptable. But for everyday living, I have been slacking. My sweatpants and husband's XL Pantagonia jacket have become the new uniform. I walk the dog every morning in my pjs and ski cap. I am also starting to think it is acceptable to forgo grooming when I am not going to leave the house.. or if I am only making a quick stop. Of course you NEVER run into anyone when you look like hell right?
I'd also like to believe that I am above vanity and that appearances are insignificant. Then I look at some of my friends who are ALWAYS put together. Whether they are at Wegmans, a kid's football game or school drop off, the hair is done, the outfit coordinated and the teeth brushed. They also read, cook, take care of a household and some work. I've got to pull it together.
Done writing, have to schedule the manicurist and waxer.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Quick Clip
We recently pulled out the old home movies. My husband is learning how to use edit features on the Mac, so the sweetheart created this very short little clip of our son.
I realize videos can be boring if you are not part of them, but this is so damn cute you just have to take a look!
The Early Years
If you do not take videos, START NOW!
I realize videos can be boring if you are not part of them, but this is so damn cute you just have to take a look!
The Early Years
If you do not take videos, START NOW!
Monday, January 25, 2010
Purpose of Movies
When I was younger I thought the movies were created to simply entertain the audience. Entertainment defined as laughter, shock, or even escape. As I grew up, I also realized that cinema and the entertainment industry are responsible for bringing issues up for debate, for helping the masses think in a different point of view and for pushing agendas (political or otherwise). Simplistic definition of entertainment but its a starting point.
Recently, I read that AVATAR the movie is causing controversy and protests. It's encouraging to see that some of the nuisances are realized and discussed. The environmentalist aspect and the anti-war themes are appropriate issues that should be debated considering what we are dealing with today. Then there are the "i want an issue to have an issue" people such as the feminists who claim the male alien body looked stronger than the female body. I think it is like complaining about potential smoke damage when your house burns to the ground.
Thinking I was done with Sci Fi following those Lord of the Rings movies (the boys insisted and I still cringe remembering the wasted hours), I saw this movie reluctantly. Surprisingly I was happy I had seen this movie. Loved the visual representation of the planet and enjoyed the story line. It may not have had the strong affect on my value system that it apparently did on others, but I did catch some of the themes as relevant to our current issues and it sparked stimulating conversations with friends.
I love going to the movies. Not such a glamorous evening out but usually a great time and terrific memories. My son still mocks me for the time we saw "Hancock" (a comedy) and I cried non-stop all the way home. Seems the movie triggered something bizarre. Also loved to discuss Al Gore's movie with my son to emphasis our global situation and environmental responsibilities.
I can't forget the conversation I had with senior partners at Anderson Consulting while I was trying to run up that corporate ladder years ago. We were having dinner at a formal restaurant in Manhattan Beach CA, discussing favorite movies. I had mentioned a recent art flick called "The Cook The Thief, His Wife and Her Lover". I had thought I was so cool and hip and current. Opps wrong audience... major career faux pas. The middle aged partner and our conservative client thought I was a total flake and so did I when they mentioned films like "The Great Gatsby". Only one of several movie reference mistakes made at work. I ruined the ending of "Sixth Sense" for a multi-million dollar client and I recommended "The Crying Game" to a (unbeknownst to me) born-again Christian co-worker with decision making authority.
I still laugh thinking about the movie "Jagged Edge". My twin and I had gone to the Dipson theatre on Main Street and it was packed. The scene were the window was just smashed scared the hell out of my sister. She jumped up and punched the guy next to her in the face! He was so shocked I thought he was going to punch her back. Speaking of Annie, I suggested she see "Shallow Grave". She hated it and now will never take another film recommendation from me.
Controversy or simple memories, I say bravo to AVATAR and cinema in general.
Recently, I read that AVATAR the movie is causing controversy and protests. It's encouraging to see that some of the nuisances are realized and discussed. The environmentalist aspect and the anti-war themes are appropriate issues that should be debated considering what we are dealing with today. Then there are the "i want an issue to have an issue" people such as the feminists who claim the male alien body looked stronger than the female body. I think it is like complaining about potential smoke damage when your house burns to the ground.
Thinking I was done with Sci Fi following those Lord of the Rings movies (the boys insisted and I still cringe remembering the wasted hours), I saw this movie reluctantly. Surprisingly I was happy I had seen this movie. Loved the visual representation of the planet and enjoyed the story line. It may not have had the strong affect on my value system that it apparently did on others, but I did catch some of the themes as relevant to our current issues and it sparked stimulating conversations with friends.
I love going to the movies. Not such a glamorous evening out but usually a great time and terrific memories. My son still mocks me for the time we saw "Hancock" (a comedy) and I cried non-stop all the way home. Seems the movie triggered something bizarre. Also loved to discuss Al Gore's movie with my son to emphasis our global situation and environmental responsibilities.
I can't forget the conversation I had with senior partners at Anderson Consulting while I was trying to run up that corporate ladder years ago. We were having dinner at a formal restaurant in Manhattan Beach CA, discussing favorite movies. I had mentioned a recent art flick called "The Cook The Thief, His Wife and Her Lover". I had thought I was so cool and hip and current. Opps wrong audience... major career faux pas. The middle aged partner and our conservative client thought I was a total flake and so did I when they mentioned films like "The Great Gatsby". Only one of several movie reference mistakes made at work. I ruined the ending of "Sixth Sense" for a multi-million dollar client and I recommended "The Crying Game" to a (unbeknownst to me) born-again Christian co-worker with decision making authority.
I still laugh thinking about the movie "Jagged Edge". My twin and I had gone to the Dipson theatre on Main Street and it was packed. The scene were the window was just smashed scared the hell out of my sister. She jumped up and punched the guy next to her in the face! He was so shocked I thought he was going to punch her back. Speaking of Annie, I suggested she see "Shallow Grave". She hated it and now will never take another film recommendation from me.
Controversy or simple memories, I say bravo to AVATAR and cinema in general.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Hair Length Debate
Last week the Texas school board suspended a preschool aged boy because his hair was too long. Not sure if I had a flashback to the 70s or if we have lost sight of rules, choices and priorities.
I am a proponent of a dress code in schools. In my opinion it sends the right message regarding appropriate appearance and it eliminates the need to debate every slogan t-shirt or questionable fashion trend. My son's school has a dress code that does not include restrictions on hair. We have chosen this school for him (it is private) and therefore we adhere to the rules in place. All the rules, whether we agree with them or not. Maybe this family should have reviewed the dress code policies of this Texas school prior to enrolling their child.
I believe that if you disagree with a rule you should do something to change it. That does not mean take the easy way out and just refuse to follow it. It means taking a stand and making a choice.
That being said, I think this policy is wrong and disagree with the school's reasoning. Rules are in place to protect. In case of school, I would think it is to protect the integrity of the education. Allow students to learn in a safe environment. If your hair is long how is that a distraction or impediment to the learning process?
The school's reasoning for this stance is "students who dress and groom themselves neatly, and in an acceptable and appropriate manner, are more likely to become constructive members of the society in which we live." I couldn't disagree more with this statement. First, when did neat grooming equate to short hair? Second, who decides what is acceptable and appropriate? Third, are you saying people with long hair are not constructive members of society? Any comments from Texas when Jonathan Schwartz took over CEO position of SUN Microsystems in 2006 wearing a ponytail (see photo).
For the longest time, I adhered to a strict dress code at work: dark suit, white or blue blouse, hose, heels and light jewelry. The dot.com explosion changed that for me. The high rolling IT companies had execs in jeans, dogs roaming the halls and basketball nets in the conference rooms. All of a sudden my "uniform" connoted old, slow and declining profitability. Many of these guys had long hair, and they were not only constructive members of society, they were the ones we all wanted to be.
Granted that your appearance dictates people's reactions and judgements on who you are. That is unavoidable and sometimes desired. Know what your asking for and accept it, better yet use it to your advantage.
My son has long hair. Do I like? Sometimes. Why do I let him keep it long? Because he keeps it clean, I don't believe it is making him evil, and he likes it. He deals with the comments. Recently, he was at a friend's party when the grandmother told him he should never have been allowed at Nichols (his school) with that horrible hair. Ok, her opinion her prerogative but HIS hair. Can't tell you how often my parents chastise my decision to let him keep it that way. Again, their opinion but MY child.
We spend so much time focusing on outward appearance and making judgements based on aesthetics, that we forget to look at what really matters.
I am a proponent of a dress code in schools. In my opinion it sends the right message regarding appropriate appearance and it eliminates the need to debate every slogan t-shirt or questionable fashion trend. My son's school has a dress code that does not include restrictions on hair. We have chosen this school for him (it is private) and therefore we adhere to the rules in place. All the rules, whether we agree with them or not. Maybe this family should have reviewed the dress code policies of this Texas school prior to enrolling their child.
I believe that if you disagree with a rule you should do something to change it. That does not mean take the easy way out and just refuse to follow it. It means taking a stand and making a choice.
That being said, I think this policy is wrong and disagree with the school's reasoning. Rules are in place to protect. In case of school, I would think it is to protect the integrity of the education. Allow students to learn in a safe environment. If your hair is long how is that a distraction or impediment to the learning process?
The school's reasoning for this stance is "students who dress and groom themselves neatly, and in an acceptable and appropriate manner, are more likely to become constructive members of the society in which we live." I couldn't disagree more with this statement. First, when did neat grooming equate to short hair? Second, who decides what is acceptable and appropriate? Third, are you saying people with long hair are not constructive members of society? Any comments from Texas when Jonathan Schwartz took over CEO position of SUN Microsystems in 2006 wearing a ponytail (see photo).
Granted that your appearance dictates people's reactions and judgements on who you are. That is unavoidable and sometimes desired. Know what your asking for and accept it, better yet use it to your advantage.
My son has long hair. Do I like? Sometimes. Why do I let him keep it long? Because he keeps it clean, I don't believe it is making him evil, and he likes it. He deals with the comments. Recently, he was at a friend's party when the grandmother told him he should never have been allowed at Nichols (his school) with that horrible hair. Ok, her opinion her prerogative but HIS hair. Can't tell you how often my parents chastise my decision to let him keep it that way. Again, their opinion but MY child.
We spend so much time focusing on outward appearance and making judgements based on aesthetics, that we forget to look at what really matters.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Birthdays should honor moms
Today is my son's birthday and a time to celebrate how thrilled I am that he is here and mine. Even with the dirty room, the questionable internet habits and the lazy study skills, I love and adore my son and would not trade him in for anyone.
So first and foremost I wish him a very happy birthday.
I would however like to reinvent birthday honors. Yes we are all thrilled that the birthday person is around but who is really the one that should be honored? It is the mother. Yes yes yes. I could even be persuaded to include the father, but let's focus on good old mom.
It was the mom who went through nine months of tight clothes, swollen ankles and nausea. It was the mom who had to make concessions with her career and sit through horrific delivery training videos. It was the mom whose body experienced the "beauty" of childbirth and then developed utters to feed the child. All that prior to leaving the hospital!
What about the tears shed when your child gets hurt by the unforgiving stairs or the mean kid in pre-school? What about the anxiety over when he will talk or walk or use the potty? Nights crying over poor choices and unknown futures.
Maybe the benefits outweigh any possible birthday celebration for moms. We get that feeling when they spontaneously come up and kiss us. We get the joy of being on the receiving line of one of their beautiful smiles. We get to know that regardless of what they do or who they become, they are a part of us forever.
So birthday celebrations to me - the mom. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
Here is last year's family celebration.
So first and foremost I wish him a very happy birthday.
I would however like to reinvent birthday honors. Yes we are all thrilled that the birthday person is around but who is really the one that should be honored? It is the mother. Yes yes yes. I could even be persuaded to include the father, but let's focus on good old mom.
It was the mom who went through nine months of tight clothes, swollen ankles and nausea. It was the mom who had to make concessions with her career and sit through horrific delivery training videos. It was the mom whose body experienced the "beauty" of childbirth and then developed utters to feed the child. All that prior to leaving the hospital!
What about the tears shed when your child gets hurt by the unforgiving stairs or the mean kid in pre-school? What about the anxiety over when he will talk or walk or use the potty? Nights crying over poor choices and unknown futures.
Maybe the benefits outweigh any possible birthday celebration for moms. We get that feeling when they spontaneously come up and kiss us. We get the joy of being on the receiving line of one of their beautiful smiles. We get to know that regardless of what they do or who they become, they are a part of us forever.
So birthday celebrations to me - the mom. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Awake Again
Oh my friend insomnia, you have come back to visit.
There are several hundred people who claim to suffer from insomnia. Although suffer may be too strong of a word, I am regularly up in the middle of the night. My bouts of sleepless nights range from the 1 am wake up only to fall asleep at 4 am, to the up all night and miserable the next day experience.
By the way do you know there is a test for insomnia? Uh I wake up in the middle of the night and cannot sleep. Test passed.
Usually I am ok with this pattern. Sometimes I even look forward to it. In the middle of the night, my house is silent. I can write, read, catch up on bill paying, fold laundry, bury refrigerator left overs, sort through old clothes. The tasks are limitless. I also think I come up with some of my best ideas at this time (the invisible gerbil comes to mind but I will save that for another blog). The best part is that I have friends with the same ailment. Emails from my sister and rants from my girlfriends are so much more entertaining when written at 2 in the morning.
It's not all good. I am mean and miserable around 3 the next day. Believe it or not, I complain to anyone who will listen. Some even think my early day ideas are not so great. These ideas tend to involve financial investments and husband participation, so guess who wants me to cure the insomnia?
I don't think I had sleep issues when I was younger. Could stay out until 2 and still be fresh and energized at 6. Of course my focus was strictly on kicking ass in my career during the day and looking amazing in the club at night. Tough life, huh?
My husband claims it stems from guilt. "What are you feeling guilty about?" he asks. Well I have cheated on my diet since Jan. 4th, I haven't seen the gym all week, my consulting project is due and not done yet, I yelled at my son, haven't cleaned out the downstairs closet, don't bring in a steady income, spend too much money...yada yada yada. What aren't I guilty about? But please that is everyday life.
Some say its too much caffeine. I drink coffee from morning till night and have since I was in college. Not buying it. Experts say it is emotional, physical or lifestyle factors that affect circadian rhythms (add learn new words to the benefit list). One of these lifestyle factors was listed as aging. Great. At this rate, I will have eliminated the need for sleep by the time I am 55. Time to get a job working the midnight shift.
I have tried a few recommendations. I refuse to take sleeping pills, mainly because I just know I would be one of those people who eats in the middle of the night and then goes for a walk. No one in my neighborhood needs to see me in my jammies, munching on oreos while window shopping Elmwood. Instead I have tried relaxation techniques and mental unwinding. The best recommendation I found said "Stop worrying". Perfect, let me do that now. And in the future I can just stop sneezing on command as well.
Haven't found a cure so here I am enjoying the silence. Note if you see me tomorrow around 3 pm you may want to stay away - it won't be pretty.
There are several hundred people who claim to suffer from insomnia. Although suffer may be too strong of a word, I am regularly up in the middle of the night. My bouts of sleepless nights range from the 1 am wake up only to fall asleep at 4 am, to the up all night and miserable the next day experience.
By the way do you know there is a test for insomnia? Uh I wake up in the middle of the night and cannot sleep. Test passed.
Usually I am ok with this pattern. Sometimes I even look forward to it. In the middle of the night, my house is silent. I can write, read, catch up on bill paying, fold laundry, bury refrigerator left overs, sort through old clothes. The tasks are limitless. I also think I come up with some of my best ideas at this time (the invisible gerbil comes to mind but I will save that for another blog). The best part is that I have friends with the same ailment. Emails from my sister and rants from my girlfriends are so much more entertaining when written at 2 in the morning.
It's not all good. I am mean and miserable around 3 the next day. Believe it or not, I complain to anyone who will listen. Some even think my early day ideas are not so great. These ideas tend to involve financial investments and husband participation, so guess who wants me to cure the insomnia?
I don't think I had sleep issues when I was younger. Could stay out until 2 and still be fresh and energized at 6. Of course my focus was strictly on kicking ass in my career during the day and looking amazing in the club at night. Tough life, huh?
My husband claims it stems from guilt. "What are you feeling guilty about?" he asks. Well I have cheated on my diet since Jan. 4th, I haven't seen the gym all week, my consulting project is due and not done yet, I yelled at my son, haven't cleaned out the downstairs closet, don't bring in a steady income, spend too much money...yada yada yada. What aren't I guilty about? But please that is everyday life.
Some say its too much caffeine. I drink coffee from morning till night and have since I was in college. Not buying it. Experts say it is emotional, physical or lifestyle factors that affect circadian rhythms (add learn new words to the benefit list). One of these lifestyle factors was listed as aging. Great. At this rate, I will have eliminated the need for sleep by the time I am 55. Time to get a job working the midnight shift.
I have tried a few recommendations. I refuse to take sleeping pills, mainly because I just know I would be one of those people who eats in the middle of the night and then goes for a walk. No one in my neighborhood needs to see me in my jammies, munching on oreos while window shopping Elmwood. Instead I have tried relaxation techniques and mental unwinding. The best recommendation I found said "Stop worrying". Perfect, let me do that now. And in the future I can just stop sneezing on command as well.
Haven't found a cure so here I am enjoying the silence. Note if you see me tomorrow around 3 pm you may want to stay away - it won't be pretty.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Kennedy Legacy Gone
Look out friends, I am getting a little political here.
Can someone tell me how the Republicans won the Massachusetts seat? For the first time in about a bizillion years the Democrats have a majority and supposedly some real power. And the for the first time about a bizillion years this state will be represented by a Republican.
Yes, i consider myself a liberal and yes I am a registered Democrat. But I do vote according to issues, or at least I like to think i do. It wouldn't bother me that a Republican won this seat if I could tell what platform he won it promoting.
Granted I am embarrassed that the democrat candidate (and a female) made some campaigning gaffes. Not quite Palin level but still. However I did not see any debates, I did not hear an issue banter. Obama goes up to bat for her and still she loses. Will healthcare reform ever happen? I am depressingly starting to believe it won't. But Mass. won't be as affected as NY, so do they care as much?
Have we all given up? Seems like there is so much that needs to be fixed that the only thing we can focus on is the nebulas CHANGE. I never liked that concept - change for change purposes. I prefer planning, compromise and realism over fear, politicking and secrecy.
Can someone tell me how the Republicans won the Massachusetts seat? For the first time in about a bizillion years the Democrats have a majority and supposedly some real power. And the for the first time about a bizillion years this state will be represented by a Republican.
Yes, i consider myself a liberal and yes I am a registered Democrat. But I do vote according to issues, or at least I like to think i do. It wouldn't bother me that a Republican won this seat if I could tell what platform he won it promoting.
Granted I am embarrassed that the democrat candidate (and a female) made some campaigning gaffes. Not quite Palin level but still. However I did not see any debates, I did not hear an issue banter. Obama goes up to bat for her and still she loses. Will healthcare reform ever happen? I am depressingly starting to believe it won't. But Mass. won't be as affected as NY, so do they care as much?
Have we all given up? Seems like there is so much that needs to be fixed that the only thing we can focus on is the nebulas CHANGE. I never liked that concept - change for change purposes. I prefer planning, compromise and realism over fear, politicking and secrecy.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Goodbye Sugar Daddy, Hello Sugar Mama
You have to read this NY Times article regarding men marrying wealthier women. Although men don't marry wives, they marry women who become wives. Sorry.
I have a comment about almost every point in this article. WOW am I worked up today.
Let's start with Paul Fucito's quote "In recent decades, with the rise of well-paid working wives, the economic gains of marriage have been a greater benefit for men.” The way I see it men always get the greater benefit economic or otherwise. They get a cook, cleaner, nanny, therapist and now a financial provider.
"In 1970, 4 percent of husbands had wives who made more money; in 2007, 22 percent did." Bravo that there are women who make more than their husbands. We are a bright gender with strong skills and intellects. I think any man who has a problem with it isn't worth marrying anyway.
"College-educated wives are less likely to have a husband who is college-educated " I find this statistic bothersome. Why are we marrying men who are less educated than we are? Is it because college educated men are intimidated? Is it because we have some sick caretaking issue? Is it because we are working so hard developing our brain that we have no energy to put into our relationships and therefore settle?
I believe your spouse should help you become the best that you can be. You are working together not competing against each other. As women, we have done this for generations. We have been the support behind our men. So what happens when our men decide that we can take care of the house, the kids and the finances while they stay home playing video games and fantasty football? It's like some kind of Benjamin Buttons suffrage; women are free and men want to be bound.
Well not all guys. Kudos to the real men who are equal partners in the relationship, whether they are the primary bread winner or the stay-at-home dad.
I have a comment about almost every point in this article. WOW am I worked up today.
Let's start with Paul Fucito's quote "In recent decades, with the rise of well-paid working wives, the economic gains of marriage have been a greater benefit for men.” The way I see it men always get the greater benefit economic or otherwise. They get a cook, cleaner, nanny, therapist and now a financial provider.
"In 1970, 4 percent of husbands had wives who made more money; in 2007, 22 percent did." Bravo that there are women who make more than their husbands. We are a bright gender with strong skills and intellects. I think any man who has a problem with it isn't worth marrying anyway.
"College-educated wives are less likely to have a husband who is college-educated " I find this statistic bothersome. Why are we marrying men who are less educated than we are? Is it because college educated men are intimidated? Is it because we have some sick caretaking issue? Is it because we are working so hard developing our brain that we have no energy to put into our relationships and therefore settle?
I believe your spouse should help you become the best that you can be. You are working together not competing against each other. As women, we have done this for generations. We have been the support behind our men. So what happens when our men decide that we can take care of the house, the kids and the finances while they stay home playing video games and fantasty football? It's like some kind of Benjamin Buttons suffrage; women are free and men want to be bound.
Well not all guys. Kudos to the real men who are equal partners in the relationship, whether they are the primary bread winner or the stay-at-home dad.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Flat Stanley Visits
Have you ever heard of the Flat Stanley Project? Basically it's a literary program based on a children's book in which a paper doll is sent for an adventure. When you receive the doll, you write in it's journal and take photos, then send the info back to the school child. Kind of like that gnome in the Expedia commercials.
Flat Stanley arrived at our house this weekend, sent from our niece in Arizona. I think it is a terrific experience for kids and of course we were happy to help.
So yesterday we spent the day like crazy people carrying a paper doll around Buffalo. Holding it over our heads to take photos next to City Hall. Doing the scavenger hunt to find the rock marking the spot President McKinley was shot, which by the was is on Fordham. We even went as far as to drive the doll to Niagara Falls to give it a better location shot. Today one of us (guess who?) will write up the journal adventure and send it back to Arizona.
This may be a successful learning experience for our niece and her classmates but it was also a blast for us. We spend so much time planning vacations and organizing events, while a simply paper doll brought us a family adventure basically for free.
Flat Stanley arrived at our house this weekend, sent from our niece in Arizona. I think it is a terrific experience for kids and of course we were happy to help.
So yesterday we spent the day like crazy people carrying a paper doll around Buffalo. Holding it over our heads to take photos next to City Hall. Doing the scavenger hunt to find the rock marking the spot President McKinley was shot, which by the was is on Fordham. We even went as far as to drive the doll to Niagara Falls to give it a better location shot. Today one of us (guess who?) will write up the journal adventure and send it back to Arizona.
This may be a successful learning experience for our niece and her classmates but it was also a blast for us. We spend so much time planning vacations and organizing events, while a simply paper doll brought us a family adventure basically for free.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Clown Doctors? Really?
I find this one of the most ridiculous things I have read and I have read about some lunatic ideas. Before I rant though, let me say that I am a believer in alternative medicines such as laughter therapy but this is silly.
Apparently the University Of Haifa in Israel is offering the world's first academic degree in medical clowning. Oh yeah I said c-l-o-w-n-i-n-g. And in Isreal, because we all know that Israel is at the epicenter of humor.
So this "degree" features classes in the psychology of pain next to mime and juggling. Laughter as a therapy may show positive results, so fine by me do what ever it takes to ease the patient. However, if I am in the hospital and in pain I do not by any means want to see my physician rounding with some idiot in clown make up. First and foremost isn't my physician supposed to instill confidence with his knowledge and honesty? Not really what I am looking for in a clown. If I am in the hospital, it is probably serious. Call me crazy but I prefer to keep my prescription drugs away from my whoopie cushion.
How to you vet for entry into this degreed program? I would think that high school grades or SAT scores wouldn't matter for the clown but would for the doctor. Do you have to tell a joke on the interview or look good in a red nose and giant shoes? Maybe the ability to juggle bumps you to the first choice. Please oh please do not let clown doctor program be my son's safety school choice.
I don't believe we all have to be treated like children. Go ahead and throw that Patch Adams movie at me. Didn't see it nor will I. There is a time and place and a level of intensity. Let's grow up and stop thinking everything is a joke and must be addressed with humor. Some things aren't funny and some experiences cannot be laughed away.
Apparently the University Of Haifa in Israel is offering the world's first academic degree in medical clowning. Oh yeah I said c-l-o-w-n-i-n-g. And in Isreal, because we all know that Israel is at the epicenter of humor.
So this "degree" features classes in the psychology of pain next to mime and juggling. Laughter as a therapy may show positive results, so fine by me do what ever it takes to ease the patient. However, if I am in the hospital and in pain I do not by any means want to see my physician rounding with some idiot in clown make up. First and foremost isn't my physician supposed to instill confidence with his knowledge and honesty? Not really what I am looking for in a clown. If I am in the hospital, it is probably serious. Call me crazy but I prefer to keep my prescription drugs away from my whoopie cushion.
How to you vet for entry into this degreed program? I would think that high school grades or SAT scores wouldn't matter for the clown but would for the doctor. Do you have to tell a joke on the interview or look good in a red nose and giant shoes? Maybe the ability to juggle bumps you to the first choice. Please oh please do not let clown doctor program be my son's safety school choice.
I don't believe we all have to be treated like children. Go ahead and throw that Patch Adams movie at me. Didn't see it nor will I. There is a time and place and a level of intensity. Let's grow up and stop thinking everything is a joke and must be addressed with humor. Some things aren't funny and some experiences cannot be laughed away.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Too Many Hospital Events
I am slightly afraid to leave the house or answer the phone today. Just a little paranoia I know I will push through, but we have had too many hospital references this month.
As you know, our first experience was Max's unfortunate snowboarding incident. Again, I am thankful that a broken wrist is all that he suffered. The following week one of my closest friends slipped on the ice and fell on her head. A concussion had her feeling dizzy with a headache for about a week. I am thankful that is all she suffered.
This weekend added more to the list. First, my favorite man (next to my husband and son) had a terrible episode. Couldn't focus, was dizzy and nauseous, experiencing wicked headache. After a call asking his wife to come home, they sat in the hospital from 10:30 am to almost 6 pm. The waiting is probably one of the worst parts, while your mind passing from stroke to migraine. After a clean MRI and visit to the neurologist, he is diagnosed with high blood pressure and a propensity toward migraines. Again, I am thankful that is all it is.
Yesterday, I refused to leave the house. Just cook and clean and spend time with my boys. That afternoon I received a text from one of our closest friends. Their son (who happens to be one of our son's closest friends) share the same hobbies. The snowboard landed him in the ER that afternoon. They sat and waited. He will be fine after a few days in the hospital but off sports for a few months. I am thankful that he will be ok.
I feel for her kids, his wife and his parents. The physical pain is temporary but the emotional fear of phone calls and waiting results doesn't easily disappear. It is obvious that so many people experience much worse and that I should just consider this life as usual. But I am feeling morose and just simply sad for my family and friends ad even for myself right now.
Will get over it and be in a better mood tomorrow. Today, just going to hope for the best.
As you know, our first experience was Max's unfortunate snowboarding incident. Again, I am thankful that a broken wrist is all that he suffered. The following week one of my closest friends slipped on the ice and fell on her head. A concussion had her feeling dizzy with a headache for about a week. I am thankful that is all she suffered.
This weekend added more to the list. First, my favorite man (next to my husband and son) had a terrible episode. Couldn't focus, was dizzy and nauseous, experiencing wicked headache. After a call asking his wife to come home, they sat in the hospital from 10:30 am to almost 6 pm. The waiting is probably one of the worst parts, while your mind passing from stroke to migraine. After a clean MRI and visit to the neurologist, he is diagnosed with high blood pressure and a propensity toward migraines. Again, I am thankful that is all it is.
Yesterday, I refused to leave the house. Just cook and clean and spend time with my boys. That afternoon I received a text from one of our closest friends. Their son (who happens to be one of our son's closest friends) share the same hobbies. The snowboard landed him in the ER that afternoon. They sat and waited. He will be fine after a few days in the hospital but off sports for a few months. I am thankful that he will be ok.
I feel for her kids, his wife and his parents. The physical pain is temporary but the emotional fear of phone calls and waiting results doesn't easily disappear. It is obvious that so many people experience much worse and that I should just consider this life as usual. But I am feeling morose and just simply sad for my family and friends ad even for myself right now.
Will get over it and be in a better mood tomorrow. Today, just going to hope for the best.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
A Lesson in Customer Service
This is a public service notice. We are experiencing a severe lack of positive customer service. Do not fret I am here to help.
First, when I solicit you to perform a service, let's say DJ for a surprise party, you should not make me jump through hurdles because your website does not work as expected. I called, I met you and I filled out your online form. I even hand delivered a 2/3 down payment check for the service. Do NOT send me three emails stating you did not receive the form and tell me to complete it again, and again, and again. The fact that you already have all the information requested by the form only adds insult to injury.
Secondly, all interaction with a client or member for that matter should be pleasant. Let's say that I am a member of a club and I book a room for a surprise party. My phone messages should be returned in 24 hours not 5 days (if at all). When you do not return my calls but send me to an assistant that assistant should not act like he is bothered because I want his professional opinion on the number of wings to order. I am a fairly bright women and do not need condescending remarks or flippant jabs. Perhaps Mr. I-know-more-than-you party planner should consider if he would have a job were it not for people like me who waste their money on pretentious clubs.
For those of you who would like to see positive customer service in place, consider visiting Lee Lee's and allowing one of the beautiful women sales clerks to help you choose an outfit. Consider using (believe it or not) Debbie at AAA for your travel plans because she is knowledgeable, helpful and listens. Consider calling Dolci bakery to order a cake through Melissa who made me feel like she was thrilled to create a masterpiece for my party.
So many great examples but way too many poor ones.
First, when I solicit you to perform a service, let's say DJ for a surprise party, you should not make me jump through hurdles because your website does not work as expected. I called, I met you and I filled out your online form. I even hand delivered a 2/3 down payment check for the service. Do NOT send me three emails stating you did not receive the form and tell me to complete it again, and again, and again. The fact that you already have all the information requested by the form only adds insult to injury.
Secondly, all interaction with a client or member for that matter should be pleasant. Let's say that I am a member of a club and I book a room for a surprise party. My phone messages should be returned in 24 hours not 5 days (if at all). When you do not return my calls but send me to an assistant that assistant should not act like he is bothered because I want his professional opinion on the number of wings to order. I am a fairly bright women and do not need condescending remarks or flippant jabs. Perhaps Mr. I-know-more-than-you party planner should consider if he would have a job were it not for people like me who waste their money on pretentious clubs.
For those of you who would like to see positive customer service in place, consider visiting Lee Lee's and allowing one of the beautiful women sales clerks to help you choose an outfit. Consider using (believe it or not) Debbie at AAA for your travel plans because she is knowledgeable, helpful and listens. Consider calling Dolci bakery to order a cake through Melissa who made me feel like she was thrilled to create a masterpiece for my party.
So many great examples but way too many poor ones.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Earthquake Experience
Like everyone else who has seen or heard about the devastation in Haiti, my heart goes out to those individuals who have lost their loved ones and homes. It is one thing to see the results of an earthquake but it is a another to actually experience one. The earthquake I was personally involved with happened in San Francisco during the World Series of 1989 or 1990.
I was working for an IT company called EDS and dividing my time between a health care client in Sacramento and an insurance client near Fisherman's Wharf. Having just moved from Detroit, I had only been in California for a few months but loved it. Planned on staying forever. We worked 18 hours a day with one day almost off a week, but I managed to do the touristy stuff and enjoy the weather.
The day it happened I was in Sacramento but planning on driving to San Francisco later in the afternoon. My team was in a rather short building, probably only 5 floors. I was heavily involved in a testing project and decided around lunch that I didn't feel like driving to SF and would instead try to finish this stage. In the late afternoon probably around 5, I was talking to a manager and felt extremely dizzy like I was going to fall and like the room was moving. It wasn't just me, the room was moving. Several of the CA residents told us it must be a mild earthquake. At that point I had no idea the severity in SF.
When I got to my apartment, all the cabinet doors were swung open and the glasses were shattered on the floor. The TV and radio were on emergency broadcast and there was absolutely no phone signal. Internet access and cell phones were not prevalent or even personally available. For the first time since I had moved away from home, I was stuck. Unable to do go back to NY, unable to speak to my friends or family. I had no exit plan.
Keep in mind the distance between SF and Sacramento is over 80 miles and used to take me over 2 hours to drive it.
After 2 am, the phone lines came up the phone did not stop. My parents, siblings and friends all called not knowing if I was under the Bay Bridge or tucked safe in bed. If I followed through on my plans I would have probably been on the bridge when the quake started. I think it was probably as frightening for my parents as it was for me.
A group of us went to see the destruction the next day. One of our friends worked for Lloyds of London so we could pass some of the restricted areas. It was unbelievable and unbearable. One building looked fine, until you saw that the first floor was adjacent to it.
To this day, I am still terrified by earthquakes. I experienced a few very small ones while in LA and I think a tremor hit in Cheektowaga one morning, but nothing like SF and nothing like what these people in Haiti had to deal with.
If you can, please help them.
I was working for an IT company called EDS and dividing my time between a health care client in Sacramento and an insurance client near Fisherman's Wharf. Having just moved from Detroit, I had only been in California for a few months but loved it. Planned on staying forever. We worked 18 hours a day with one day almost off a week, but I managed to do the touristy stuff and enjoy the weather.
The day it happened I was in Sacramento but planning on driving to San Francisco later in the afternoon. My team was in a rather short building, probably only 5 floors. I was heavily involved in a testing project and decided around lunch that I didn't feel like driving to SF and would instead try to finish this stage. In the late afternoon probably around 5, I was talking to a manager and felt extremely dizzy like I was going to fall and like the room was moving. It wasn't just me, the room was moving. Several of the CA residents told us it must be a mild earthquake. At that point I had no idea the severity in SF.
When I got to my apartment, all the cabinet doors were swung open and the glasses were shattered on the floor. The TV and radio were on emergency broadcast and there was absolutely no phone signal. Internet access and cell phones were not prevalent or even personally available. For the first time since I had moved away from home, I was stuck. Unable to do go back to NY, unable to speak to my friends or family. I had no exit plan.
Keep in mind the distance between SF and Sacramento is over 80 miles and used to take me over 2 hours to drive it.
After 2 am, the phone lines came up the phone did not stop. My parents, siblings and friends all called not knowing if I was under the Bay Bridge or tucked safe in bed. If I followed through on my plans I would have probably been on the bridge when the quake started. I think it was probably as frightening for my parents as it was for me.
A group of us went to see the destruction the next day. One of our friends worked for Lloyds of London so we could pass some of the restricted areas. It was unbelievable and unbearable. One building looked fine, until you saw that the first floor was adjacent to it.
To this day, I am still terrified by earthquakes. I experienced a few very small ones while in LA and I think a tremor hit in Cheektowaga one morning, but nothing like SF and nothing like what these people in Haiti had to deal with.
If you can, please help them.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
My BRIEF life as an interior designer
A good friend of mine asked if I could recommend an interior designer. Time for another trip to the Boulevard of Broken Dreams.
Years ago when we first bought this house, I became interested in design and decorating. My brother and I had embarked on a kitchen reconstruction project and he recommended this online class with the Sheffield School of Design out of NYC. My brother also has a boulevard of broken dreams, or maybe more like a parking lot. Anyway, a couple thousand dollars later I was opening up my first course. I loved it! Spent tons of hours meticulously watching the video, reading the assigned material and diligently detailing the dimensions of one of my rooms. My grade came back A!
The next month, I was a little busier with life and could not spend as much time. The third course came while I was finishing the second assignment. Received an A- but was already starting to think "yellow or maize who cares?". Pretty soon I was dreading the mail. I knew the boxes would keep coming and I had fallen behind, uninterested and frankly annoyed at myself. The boxes piled and I eventually forgot about them.
To help my friend I thought I would revisit the basement boulevard. I found all the material and 3 unopened boxes of assignments. I opened the most recently dated one (2003). The box had a lovely letter congratulating me on successfully completing the course and welcoming me to the world of design. Not bad for missing the last 3 sections and assignments. Guess I am now an interior designer... and have been for the past 7 years!
Think maybe I will just recommend a REAL interior design to my friend and pass on this opportunity.
Years ago when we first bought this house, I became interested in design and decorating. My brother and I had embarked on a kitchen reconstruction project and he recommended this online class with the Sheffield School of Design out of NYC. My brother also has a boulevard of broken dreams, or maybe more like a parking lot. Anyway, a couple thousand dollars later I was opening up my first course. I loved it! Spent tons of hours meticulously watching the video, reading the assigned material and diligently detailing the dimensions of one of my rooms. My grade came back A!
The next month, I was a little busier with life and could not spend as much time. The third course came while I was finishing the second assignment. Received an A- but was already starting to think "yellow or maize who cares?". Pretty soon I was dreading the mail. I knew the boxes would keep coming and I had fallen behind, uninterested and frankly annoyed at myself. The boxes piled and I eventually forgot about them.
To help my friend I thought I would revisit the basement boulevard. I found all the material and 3 unopened boxes of assignments. I opened the most recently dated one (2003). The box had a lovely letter congratulating me on successfully completing the course and welcoming me to the world of design. Not bad for missing the last 3 sections and assignments. Guess I am now an interior designer... and have been for the past 7 years!
Think maybe I will just recommend a REAL interior design to my friend and pass on this opportunity.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
I'm Only Medium Weird
The NY Times did a really interesting interview with Tony Hsieh of Zappos. Zappos is one of my favorite online shoe stores. It was obvious from the interview that this guy deserves his position and income. The one thing I found intriguing was his hiring question asking how weird you consider yourself.
I can see why he would ask the questions in terms of self awareness and indications of being uptight, but I am not sure how I would answer it. I may have described myself as unusual or unique but weird? So if I ever have the opportunity to interview for a senior position at Zappos (stop laughing it could happen) I have prepared some points to think about my weirdness ranking.
1) I like to buy things in even numbers. I mean anything, such as buying 6 not 5 place settings or having to buy at least 2 ornaments but never three. It is a bit obsessive, as I will pass on a great set of glassware if I cannot at least 4. Marketing influence?
2) I hide cash. I put ten or five dollar bills in secret compartments in my purses or in my pockets when I put away my winter clothes. I forget about it and then when I find it, I get a happy surprise. Financial influence?
3) I cut out articles or print them from an interesting site. Pile them on my desk and after a week I simply throw them out. R&D influence?
4) I have a bizarre fear of school buses. Obsessively find articles on bus crashes or kidnaps and insist on reorting the stories to anyone who will listen (could be an issue with a post-birth trip to see The Sweet Hereafter) Just plain craziness.
There are probably a ton more examples but I am starting to feel really weird dwelling on it!
I can see why he would ask the questions in terms of self awareness and indications of being uptight, but I am not sure how I would answer it. I may have described myself as unusual or unique but weird? So if I ever have the opportunity to interview for a senior position at Zappos (stop laughing it could happen) I have prepared some points to think about my weirdness ranking.
1) I like to buy things in even numbers. I mean anything, such as buying 6 not 5 place settings or having to buy at least 2 ornaments but never three. It is a bit obsessive, as I will pass on a great set of glassware if I cannot at least 4. Marketing influence?
2) I hide cash. I put ten or five dollar bills in secret compartments in my purses or in my pockets when I put away my winter clothes. I forget about it and then when I find it, I get a happy surprise. Financial influence?
3) I cut out articles or print them from an interesting site. Pile them on my desk and after a week I simply throw them out. R&D influence?
4) I have a bizarre fear of school buses. Obsessively find articles on bus crashes or kidnaps and insist on reorting the stories to anyone who will listen (could be an issue with a post-birth trip to see The Sweet Hereafter) Just plain craziness.
There are probably a ton more examples but I am starting to feel really weird dwelling on it!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Yummy
I love to cook. Not your typical Monday night dinner. That I find too boring. I prefer the multiple ingredients, time consuming master pieces. Which is kind of hard to do when my husband's mantra is mashed potatoes, Shake- n-Bake Chicken and canned corn.
Today I felt like playing the culinary artist. For me, that means searching for a perfect recipe and then running to Wegman's, the Co-op and/or Guercio's for the necessary ingredients. It also means symphony music playing in the kitchen and the phone set to silent. There is something cathartic and satisfying about completing your edible Frankenstein.
Many times my creations don't elicit the desired response. Take for example the famed Mango Enchiladas, which were literally spit out of my son's mouth at the dinner table. I severely reprimanded him until I took a forkful and performed the same action. There is also the time my son asked if I had the cook book for a delectable I served that dinner. When I responded affirmative, he told me to get it and destroy it immediately. Is food critic a possible career choice for him?
Well, tonight it all came out beautifully. Check out this amazing dinner:
The top is photo is a roasted pork lion with sage pesto, leeks and pears. The bottom photo is simply a potato pancake. Both recipes are from Williams Sonoma and are easy to make. I highly recommend each.
So as I created all afternoon and built up my excitement (because I knew my hubby would love this dish) he called to tell me he would be late. That fabulous dish wasn't so great served cold two hours later :-(.
The good news is I have lots of left overs and will be making a delivery to a special friend this afternoon.
Today I felt like playing the culinary artist. For me, that means searching for a perfect recipe and then running to Wegman's, the Co-op and/or Guercio's for the necessary ingredients. It also means symphony music playing in the kitchen and the phone set to silent. There is something cathartic and satisfying about completing your edible Frankenstein.
Many times my creations don't elicit the desired response. Take for example the famed Mango Enchiladas, which were literally spit out of my son's mouth at the dinner table. I severely reprimanded him until I took a forkful and performed the same action. There is also the time my son asked if I had the cook book for a delectable I served that dinner. When I responded affirmative, he told me to get it and destroy it immediately. Is food critic a possible career choice for him?
Well, tonight it all came out beautifully. Check out this amazing dinner:
The top is photo is a roasted pork lion with sage pesto, leeks and pears. The bottom photo is simply a potato pancake. Both recipes are from Williams Sonoma and are easy to make. I highly recommend each.
So as I created all afternoon and built up my excitement (because I knew my hubby would love this dish) he called to tell me he would be late. That fabulous dish wasn't so great served cold two hours later :-(.
The good news is I have lots of left overs and will be making a delivery to a special friend this afternoon.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Nicknames
This weekend I was pouring my sister a glass of wine and apparently stopped too soon. She looked at me and said "Fill me up Buttercup". For some reason her new nickname for me had me laughing non-stop.
I have always thought nicknames were a true sign of endearment. The first year of dating my husband he never called me by my first name. It was Starfish, Sunflower, Angel, Lover...anything but Bonnie. I almost thought he did not know my name! Even now when he calls me by my first name it startles me because it usually means something serious.
We nicknamed our son Sway. It's kind of ridiculous but when he as a baby, I danced with him all the time. There was a song called Counting Blue Cars by Dishwala. So I called him Maxwala which was moved to Swayla and cut down to Sway. So bizarre but it sticks. He also goes by Poopka, Mookie and Lovey dove. My nephews is Cricket and my niece is Camalama. All the members of my family have nicknames, like FeeFee Trixie Bell and Jajie.
I even have friends who nickname their body parts - you know who I mean Betty.
I found its not just me. There are nickname generating sites so you really don't have an excuse for calling someone by their real name.
I have always thought nicknames were a true sign of endearment. The first year of dating my husband he never called me by my first name. It was Starfish, Sunflower, Angel, Lover...anything but Bonnie. I almost thought he did not know my name! Even now when he calls me by my first name it startles me because it usually means something serious.
We nicknamed our son Sway. It's kind of ridiculous but when he as a baby, I danced with him all the time. There was a song called Counting Blue Cars by Dishwala. So I called him Maxwala which was moved to Swayla and cut down to Sway. So bizarre but it sticks. He also goes by Poopka, Mookie and Lovey dove. My nephews is Cricket and my niece is Camalama. All the members of my family have nicknames, like FeeFee Trixie Bell and Jajie.
I even have friends who nickname their body parts - you know who I mean Betty.
I found its not just me. There are nickname generating sites so you really don't have an excuse for calling someone by their real name.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Boulevard of Broken Dreams
That's what I call the stretch of basement from the back staircase, past the laundry room before the wine safe. It's cluttered with piles of equipment, supplies and memories of all those great ideas I had tried that never amounted to anything.
Describing this view would be like filtering through the Grand Island dump, so let's start with just one section. How about remnants of my dream to be an artist ? I see the blank canvases, sable hair brushes and tubes of paint. Deeper I find the charcoals and gummy erasers. I better stop digging through because I am starting to believe I could do this again.
Back in high school, Sr. Amelia (my senior art teacher) told me I was creative and had a beautiful talent. Interesting that those are words from high school I choose to continue remembering.
I remember the Xmas I choose to do charcoal drawings of an embracing couple for my brother. His wife still thinks it was him and an old girlfriend. The size of their hands compared to their faces immediately told me that drawing was not going to make me rich and famous.
Then there is the time I took watercolor classes near Ann Arbor MI with a talented Watercolor Artist named Donna Z. She was amazing and I spent a fortune on equipment. My one painting is still clipped to the easel awaiting a revisit to complete. When I came back to Buffalo I moved into oil classes. Notice I didn't say oil painting because mainly I just took the classes. Then there is the adult education classes I took where the teacher told me my choice in tree color was wrong. Since when is the word wrong used in art?
My husband's biggest criticism was that my last painting depicted pumpkins on the beach. Pumpkins don't grow on the beach. He should know he was an art major for a time in college. My husband has so many talents, unfortunately I cannot put oil painting in that category. Good thing he changed majors.
Time to find a new hobby. Maybe I will pick it up again or maybe I will continue to us it as a dream to revisit whenever I feel lost.
Sarah, thanks for listening to me rant about this over the past several years and reminding me to write about it.
Describing this view would be like filtering through the Grand Island dump, so let's start with just one section. How about remnants of my dream to be an artist ? I see the blank canvases, sable hair brushes and tubes of paint. Deeper I find the charcoals and gummy erasers. I better stop digging through because I am starting to believe I could do this again.
Back in high school, Sr. Amelia (my senior art teacher) told me I was creative and had a beautiful talent. Interesting that those are words from high school I choose to continue remembering.
I remember the Xmas I choose to do charcoal drawings of an embracing couple for my brother. His wife still thinks it was him and an old girlfriend. The size of their hands compared to their faces immediately told me that drawing was not going to make me rich and famous.
Then there is the time I took watercolor classes near Ann Arbor MI with a talented Watercolor Artist named Donna Z. She was amazing and I spent a fortune on equipment. My one painting is still clipped to the easel awaiting a revisit to complete. When I came back to Buffalo I moved into oil classes. Notice I didn't say oil painting because mainly I just took the classes. Then there is the adult education classes I took where the teacher told me my choice in tree color was wrong. Since when is the word wrong used in art?
My husband's biggest criticism was that my last painting depicted pumpkins on the beach. Pumpkins don't grow on the beach. He should know he was an art major for a time in college. My husband has so many talents, unfortunately I cannot put oil painting in that category. Good thing he changed majors.
Time to find a new hobby. Maybe I will pick it up again or maybe I will continue to us it as a dream to revisit whenever I feel lost.
Sarah, thanks for listening to me rant about this over the past several years and reminding me to write about it.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Super SIze, Super Mess
Why do the movie theaters sell soda in gallon sizes? Who needs that much hydration in a 2 hour period? I have always thought these sizes are ridiculous and this morning I was personally affected by the enormity.
Last night, in an attempt to cheer up the kid, we went for sushi and to the movies. Movie night is a fairly regular outing for us and our typical evening includes pre-move decision making, ordering the "1 large popcorn 2 medium drinks to share", and post movie criticism. Well the monstrous container of sugar poison we received was as not consumed by my son. He brought it home. Why do we need to bring unused cola home? My boys do not even eat leftovers. He left this on my grandmother's antique drum table adorning our greeting room. Not even 1/12 empty.
This morning I came down the stairs in the dark, bumped into the table and knocked it over, soda pouring over table, oriental rug and the yesterday's. I could not believe the range affected by this spraying. It was like the spill was crop dusting my entire room in slow motion. Good morning to me.
I realize that I am one of the idiots who purchases the 1 million gallon of soda to watch the 2 hour movie so I shouldn't complain. But I am. Never have I been so thirsty that I needed this much liquid; not even if it was vodka. Plus, don't you have to use the bathroom if you are drinking so much?
I want everything to be smaller (well maybe not EVERYTHING). Everything available as food or drink. Here is how we can lessen our health care costs... reduce portions at all restaurants. Just starting with fast food would probably reduce obesity by 25%! Maybe we all need to experience a little temporary hunger and refrain form gluttony for just a night.
Last night, in an attempt to cheer up the kid, we went for sushi and to the movies. Movie night is a fairly regular outing for us and our typical evening includes pre-move decision making, ordering the "1 large popcorn 2 medium drinks to share", and post movie criticism. Well the monstrous container of sugar poison we received was as not consumed by my son. He brought it home. Why do we need to bring unused cola home? My boys do not even eat leftovers. He left this on my grandmother's antique drum table adorning our greeting room. Not even 1/12 empty.
This morning I came down the stairs in the dark, bumped into the table and knocked it over, soda pouring over table, oriental rug and the yesterday's. I could not believe the range affected by this spraying. It was like the spill was crop dusting my entire room in slow motion. Good morning to me.
I realize that I am one of the idiots who purchases the 1 million gallon of soda to watch the 2 hour movie so I shouldn't complain. But I am. Never have I been so thirsty that I needed this much liquid; not even if it was vodka. Plus, don't you have to use the bathroom if you are drinking so much?
I want everything to be smaller (well maybe not EVERYTHING). Everything available as food or drink. Here is how we can lessen our health care costs... reduce portions at all restaurants. Just starting with fast food would probably reduce obesity by 25%! Maybe we all need to experience a little temporary hunger and refrain form gluttony for just a night.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Where's Waldo? And all my other friends?
Remember the days when you could avoid someone by not answering your phone or keeping the curtains drawn in the house? Well technology is making us better but not allowing us to deceive those visitors. Or maybe Big Brother is showing his face in full force.
I was recently introduced to Loopt. This application allows you to track you friends wherever they are. Easy to download and really easy to use. My question is "Do I want my friends knowing where I am all the time?" Actually they don't know where I am but they will know where my phone is. Could be useful as I lose my phone a couple of times weekly.
I love this GPS technology but I am a little wigged out about the application. Do I want to be shopping on Elmwood only to run into the person I was trying to avoid all week? Do I want my husband to know I spend a significant amount of time at LeeLee's or Adams? And what if I am skipping out of work only to be located at my favorite watering hole? This makes me sound a little deceptive and underhanded; I am not really saying I do these things, just posting the question :-).
On the other hand think of the great intel. Your kids state they are at their friend's house studying but the phone is at ETS. Your husband went on his business trip to Chicago but left his phone at the local Hyatt. Your best friend was too ill to come to your board meeting but her phone is shopping at the Gallery.
On a more serious note, couldn't we help the elderly and confused with this technology? How about the Amber Alerts?
The application also locates restaurants and hotspots. I really love it and intend on using it. For you local GPS nuts you may also want to check out eStudentNetwork (Bravo Comand Solutions team!)
I am always for technological advancements. Deal with the ethical and moral ramifications but do not stop the advancement of science and technology. Big Brother bring it on!
I was recently introduced to Loopt. This application allows you to track you friends wherever they are. Easy to download and really easy to use. My question is "Do I want my friends knowing where I am all the time?" Actually they don't know where I am but they will know where my phone is. Could be useful as I lose my phone a couple of times weekly.
I love this GPS technology but I am a little wigged out about the application. Do I want to be shopping on Elmwood only to run into the person I was trying to avoid all week? Do I want my husband to know I spend a significant amount of time at LeeLee's or Adams? And what if I am skipping out of work only to be located at my favorite watering hole? This makes me sound a little deceptive and underhanded; I am not really saying I do these things, just posting the question :-).
On the other hand think of the great intel. Your kids state they are at their friend's house studying but the phone is at ETS. Your husband went on his business trip to Chicago but left his phone at the local Hyatt. Your best friend was too ill to come to your board meeting but her phone is shopping at the Gallery.
On a more serious note, couldn't we help the elderly and confused with this technology? How about the Amber Alerts?
The application also locates restaurants and hotspots. I really love it and intend on using it. For you local GPS nuts you may also want to check out eStudentNetwork (Bravo Comand Solutions team!)
I am always for technological advancements. Deal with the ethical and moral ramifications but do not stop the advancement of science and technology. Big Brother bring it on!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Surprise! Stress Reduces Life Expectancy
Did we really need the University of California researchers to tell us this? I have been hearing for years the ramifications of a stressful life. Hooray for science! We now have the enzyme responsible for life expectancy. Not yet good enough.
If we need a study, let's do one that will help us reduce our stressful lives. Telling me to reduce my stress levels is like telling me to be happy or just stop hiccuping or to calm down. You can't JUST DO IT. Suggesting that I do more meditation and exercise to reduce stress only makes the stress worse. I now need to find time to sit quietly in a room, thinking about all the things I could be doing were I not meditating.
Here are some stress-reducing ideas to study:
- Find a way to add 6 more hours to my day
- Scientifically develop a way to clone myself and use that clone at my discretion
- Make all drivers better when driving around me OR allow me to beam myself places like in Star Trek
- Ensure my tuition dollars will guarantee my son's career success
- Teach me how to squeeze this size 8 body into a size 4 dress without looking like a sausage
I could go on and on but I am experiencing a heightened stress level because I just realized this blog is linking to an article on Fox News and referencing Star Trek! God help us all.
If we need a study, let's do one that will help us reduce our stressful lives. Telling me to reduce my stress levels is like telling me to be happy or just stop hiccuping or to calm down. You can't JUST DO IT. Suggesting that I do more meditation and exercise to reduce stress only makes the stress worse. I now need to find time to sit quietly in a room, thinking about all the things I could be doing were I not meditating.
Here are some stress-reducing ideas to study:
- Find a way to add 6 more hours to my day
- Scientifically develop a way to clone myself and use that clone at my discretion
- Make all drivers better when driving around me OR allow me to beam myself places like in Star Trek
- Ensure my tuition dollars will guarantee my son's career success
- Teach me how to squeeze this size 8 body into a size 4 dress without looking like a sausage
I could go on and on but I am experiencing a heightened stress level because I just realized this blog is linking to an article on Fox News and referencing Star Trek! God help us all.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Defining Success as Happiness
We all strive to be successful, but that word has different definitions for different people as well as varying degrees for evaluation.
Many people use financial status to define success and I can somewhat understand that. Money usually means freedom and convenience. It opens new doors and lets you experience more. But I don't think its the money that makes you successful. Would you now call Tiger Woods a successful man? Or would you say Mother Teresa was not successful? The old adage "Money cannot buy happiness"comes to mind.
I really believe that success is the achievement of happiness. Another subjective and abstract term. I don't know anyone who is happy all the time but I do know a great deal of successful people. So let's refine that definition to be the achievement of happiness most of the time, or a general feeling or happiness. So what is happiness?
Although I would love to write a formula for this one, I am not sure I can. I would include factors like laughter because if you are laughing you are usually feeling pretty good. But that's an outward sign and I think happiness is best understood internally. Achievement is also a good factor. Although I like the other old adage that states it's the journey not the destination. There should be a representation of trying, attempting or working towards. And how much weight would we give to love? Loving or being loved is a factor often overlooked or taken for granted. I'd also like to add a small amount of independence to this equation. Just a dash. I think the ability to think and act based on your personal values and morals gives you a sense of happiness.
Maybe perspective should make a showing. The truth is you cannot always control what happens to you but you can always choose how to deal with it. If I perceive myself as happy or successful, I am happy and successful.
So many factors. I'll work on it. :-)
Many people use financial status to define success and I can somewhat understand that. Money usually means freedom and convenience. It opens new doors and lets you experience more. But I don't think its the money that makes you successful. Would you now call Tiger Woods a successful man? Or would you say Mother Teresa was not successful? The old adage "Money cannot buy happiness"comes to mind.
I really believe that success is the achievement of happiness. Another subjective and abstract term. I don't know anyone who is happy all the time but I do know a great deal of successful people. So let's refine that definition to be the achievement of happiness most of the time, or a general feeling or happiness. So what is happiness?
Although I would love to write a formula for this one, I am not sure I can. I would include factors like laughter because if you are laughing you are usually feeling pretty good. But that's an outward sign and I think happiness is best understood internally. Achievement is also a good factor. Although I like the other old adage that states it's the journey not the destination. There should be a representation of trying, attempting or working towards. And how much weight would we give to love? Loving or being loved is a factor often overlooked or taken for granted. I'd also like to add a small amount of independence to this equation. Just a dash. I think the ability to think and act based on your personal values and morals gives you a sense of happiness.
Maybe perspective should make a showing. The truth is you cannot always control what happens to you but you can always choose how to deal with it. If I perceive myself as happy or successful, I am happy and successful.
So many factors. I'll work on it. :-)
Monday, January 4, 2010
Disappointment
So how do you prevent disappointment? Is it inevitable? Can you lessen the effects?
In light of our recent snowboarding incident, I have been thinking about expectations and the effects of being hopeful. My son is so disappointed about being unable to board at club this season that I have to think how I can lessen the pain in the future.
I may think that the less you expect, the less disappointed you will be. On one hand, low expectations could result in pleasant surprises. Like the time you are hopeful to retain your job in this poor economy, only to find that you are getting a significant raise. On the other hand, if your expectations are low you may not get the pleasure of anticipation. Planning a vacation is a perfect example. You review sites and schedule daily activities and count down to the flight. Half the fun is thinking about how great it will be when you get there.
Then again if you expect too much you are constantly setting yourself up for disappointment. Possibly living your life in the future instead of the present. If you are expecting an amazing time at a New Year's Eve party and it is pretty lame, you are disappointed. If you expected nothing, just the fact of seeing friends and counting down to 2010 would be enough.
It's not an absolute I am sure, but disappointment is a fact of life and a positive growing experience. So instead of figuring out how to prevent it, I think I will teach my son how to recover from it. At least he had the past 7 months to think about how terrific the snow season would be and I am sure that shook him out of some misery during the past year.
In light of our recent snowboarding incident, I have been thinking about expectations and the effects of being hopeful. My son is so disappointed about being unable to board at club this season that I have to think how I can lessen the pain in the future.
I may think that the less you expect, the less disappointed you will be. On one hand, low expectations could result in pleasant surprises. Like the time you are hopeful to retain your job in this poor economy, only to find that you are getting a significant raise. On the other hand, if your expectations are low you may not get the pleasure of anticipation. Planning a vacation is a perfect example. You review sites and schedule daily activities and count down to the flight. Half the fun is thinking about how great it will be when you get there.
Then again if you expect too much you are constantly setting yourself up for disappointment. Possibly living your life in the future instead of the present. If you are expecting an amazing time at a New Year's Eve party and it is pretty lame, you are disappointed. If you expected nothing, just the fact of seeing friends and counting down to 2010 would be enough.
It's not an absolute I am sure, but disappointment is a fact of life and a positive growing experience. So instead of figuring out how to prevent it, I think I will teach my son how to recover from it. At least he had the past 7 months to think about how terrific the snow season would be and I am sure that shook him out of some misery during the past year.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Part II: View from First Aid
"You need to take him to the Orthopedic Clinic right away!" Those were the first words I heard from Holiday Valley's First Aid when we entered the clinic. Max was cradling his arm. I shouldn't have been too surprised. When he and his friends walked into the Lodge to tell me he had fallen, his wrist was as big and bumpy as my knee. It was the urgency that scared me.
My son was amazing. Not a tear. We took him to Ellicotville Orthopedics (which is conveniently located 3 minutes from the main lodge at Holiday Valley). His friends waited anxiously in the lobby to hear if he would be able to snowboard at club this Friday. Max knew it was bad but he kept hoping. You see a broken wrist means no snowboarding, no lacrosse, no snowboarding, no squash, no snowboarding, no guitar and no snowboarding. Did I mention no more snowboarding? He has been looking forward to club since last March.
After being examined, the doctor (who was terrific) offered us two choices: manipulate the off-centered bone to try to push it into place or schedule surgery. The first could be done right way, but may not work and would be "uncomfortable" for Max. The doctor's look at me when he said "uncomfortable" let me know my baby was going to experience some real pain. Surgery would mean going back to Buffalo, waiting over the weekend and operating on Monday. Max immediately told the doctor to try to push it into place now.
Just the highlights: one fairly large doctor pushing on my son's swollen wrist as the other fairly large x-ray technician added "traction" too the arm by pulling it apart. Max never cried. After three tries, four x-rays and the discussion on surgery/pins/anesthesia the bones were aligned. We left with pain killers and a very sad teenage boy.
In the car, Max was telling his friends how the first aid person at Holiday told him he could still board with a cast. Thank you ma'am. My pure gratitude for her efforts immediately turned. I know she was trying to make him feel better, but the boy will NOT be boarding with a cast. Mom once again needs to be the bad guy. His friends assured me he would be fine to board on Friday. Thank you Dr. Teenage Boy and Dr. Broken Bone Expert. I was actually really happy his friends were there. Boys have a way of making each other feel better by laughing it off. Thank you my young "experts".
During the experience I could think of nothing but my baby. How disappointed he was, how much pain he was in. He, however, was trying to be the "man", pulling away from my help and telling me I did not need to be in the room with him. Yes, I am proud of his independence and courage. He is growing up but my feelings are the same as they were when he was a little boy. I still want to hold him and make him feel better. Physically painful for him, emotionally excruciating for me. Last night, he let me get a little closer. This is going to be a long 6 weeks.
The good news is that he is ok and he should not have any permanent damage. Welcome 2010!
My son was amazing. Not a tear. We took him to Ellicotville Orthopedics (which is conveniently located 3 minutes from the main lodge at Holiday Valley). His friends waited anxiously in the lobby to hear if he would be able to snowboard at club this Friday. Max knew it was bad but he kept hoping. You see a broken wrist means no snowboarding, no lacrosse, no snowboarding, no squash, no snowboarding, no guitar and no snowboarding. Did I mention no more snowboarding? He has been looking forward to club since last March.
After being examined, the doctor (who was terrific) offered us two choices: manipulate the off-centered bone to try to push it into place or schedule surgery. The first could be done right way, but may not work and would be "uncomfortable" for Max. The doctor's look at me when he said "uncomfortable" let me know my baby was going to experience some real pain. Surgery would mean going back to Buffalo, waiting over the weekend and operating on Monday. Max immediately told the doctor to try to push it into place now.
Just the highlights: one fairly large doctor pushing on my son's swollen wrist as the other fairly large x-ray technician added "traction" too the arm by pulling it apart. Max never cried. After three tries, four x-rays and the discussion on surgery/pins/anesthesia the bones were aligned. We left with pain killers and a very sad teenage boy.
In the car, Max was telling his friends how the first aid person at Holiday told him he could still board with a cast. Thank you ma'am. My pure gratitude for her efforts immediately turned. I know she was trying to make him feel better, but the boy will NOT be boarding with a cast. Mom once again needs to be the bad guy. His friends assured me he would be fine to board on Friday. Thank you Dr. Teenage Boy and Dr. Broken Bone Expert. I was actually really happy his friends were there. Boys have a way of making each other feel better by laughing it off. Thank you my young "experts".
During the experience I could think of nothing but my baby. How disappointed he was, how much pain he was in. He, however, was trying to be the "man", pulling away from my help and telling me I did not need to be in the room with him. Yes, I am proud of his independence and courage. He is growing up but my feelings are the same as they were when he was a little boy. I still want to hold him and make him feel better. Physically painful for him, emotionally excruciating for me. Last night, he let me get a little closer. This is going to be a long 6 weeks.
The good news is that he is ok and he should not have any permanent damage. Welcome 2010!
View From the Lodge
I love WiFi. Here I sit at the Holiday Valley lodge enjoying a cup of Starbucks, a terrific view and the knowledge that my son thinks I'm fantastic because I drove him and his buddies to snowboard today. It is freezing outside so you know these guys must love snowboarding to deal with the bone chilling temperatures. Much nicer sitting in the warmth and blogging.
I actually really like skiing and tried snowboarding last year. It's difficult, especially for the person who has to lift me when I fall (thanks Scott). See photo. Not pretty. Besides the fact that simply getting up on the board demands incredible abdominal muscles, falling is painful. You fall either directly on your face or backwards on your tailbone. I was sore for three days and only made it down the hill once! But I plan on doing it again this year - although not today.
So what's the allure? It cannot possibly be the weather. My body shook walking from the car. I know its not how great it looks because I have never been so heckled. "Nice job lady! Get up Honey!" Mortifying. I think the feeling of freedom is enticing. It's just you controlling the board (or not controlling in my case). You do it right, you slide. You do it wrong, you fall ... and fall ... and fall again. I am guessing that the jumps give you a feeling of flying.
Trying something so physically challenging is also a major rush. The ability to master this board, maneuvering around obstacles and swaying with the movement must be an amazing feeling. Just thinking about it makes me want to brave the cold ...almost. Plus I think if I could really get this, my son would elevate me on the coolness scale. Could use that, might be worth it.
Maybe its just that I love the outfits, which if you remember is the reason I enjoyed tennis so much.
I guess the boys have similar reasons for loving this sport, but may also thrive on the competition among their friends, the comaraderie and the risk. I'll ask them when they return. I know whenever my son comes back from boarding he is lighter - full of laughter with rosy cheeks and a sparkling eyes. Don't think I had that sparkle, although the snow burn from using my face as a stopper, could account for rosy cheeks.
For now, I will just enjoy the view.
So what's the allure? It cannot possibly be the weather. My body shook walking from the car. I know its not how great it looks because I have never been so heckled. "Nice job lady! Get up Honey!" Mortifying. I think the feeling of freedom is enticing. It's just you controlling the board (or not controlling in my case). You do it right, you slide. You do it wrong, you fall ... and fall ... and fall again. I am guessing that the jumps give you a feeling of flying.
Trying something so physically challenging is also a major rush. The ability to master this board, maneuvering around obstacles and swaying with the movement must be an amazing feeling. Just thinking about it makes me want to brave the cold ...almost. Plus I think if I could really get this, my son would elevate me on the coolness scale. Could use that, might be worth it.
Maybe its just that I love the outfits, which if you remember is the reason I enjoyed tennis so much.
I guess the boys have similar reasons for loving this sport, but may also thrive on the competition among their friends, the comaraderie and the risk. I'll ask them when they return. I know whenever my son comes back from boarding he is lighter - full of laughter with rosy cheeks and a sparkling eyes. Don't think I had that sparkle, although the snow burn from using my face as a stopper, could account for rosy cheeks.
For now, I will just enjoy the view.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
I am not an animal person
Just about every morning, I wake up with my husband to walk the dog. As we are walking the dog this morning, we hear someone yelling for "Lucy Girl". We are stopped by a guy in a taxi, with what looks like a german shepherd in the back seat. He asked if we had seen a large pit bull who "got away" from him. The guy was pretty concerned. Worried about a lost, loved pet or nervous about being sued when his Kujo attacks someone. Nice way to start the day.
We have a small cockapoo who was acquired to satisfy the needs of a toddler wanting a brother. I am not an animal person and really have no relationship with this animal, outside of walking it and feeding it and taking it to the vet. Our vet visits include the doctor and assistances talking baby talk to Jack (the dog). On our last visit the vet stated he needed to have his teeth cleaned which would include anesthesia and a bill for about $750. Hmmm, how about euthanizing him? Wouldn't that be cheaper? Ok, that was mean. Did I mention I am not an animal person? None the less, my son loves him and after about 9 years I am getting used to him. He is kind of cute, especially now that he has stopped using my piano as a fire hydrant.
Back to point. Jack has gotten loose on several occasions. He tends to slip out when someone comes in the house and then gets disoriented. We have fantastic people in the neighborhood who bring him back with a smile. No real harm done.
But this is a small little dog. Not a pit bull. If you are going to have a killer dog, shouldn't you have a fail safe way to keep him locked up? Over the past 6 months we have had three stray dogs in our yard. The first experience was with the neighbor's beasts: a dobermein and shepherd. My response was to stay locked in the house until they left. Next was the St. Bernard. An adorable dog who kept us trapped in the car, laying on the horn and screaming out the window until he moved and we could sprint to the back door to hide in the house. The last was a three legged black dog who happened to enter the yard without me knowing. A neighborhood runner saw the dog and rang the bell to let me know "my dog" was loose. Not my dog. Back to barricade in house.
One of the reasons I moved into the city is because I am not a fan of wildlife. Why has my yard become a dog hostel? Not too mention the several neighborhood cats who frequent our koi pond, the blue heron also likes the koi pond and the circus squirrels tightroping the phone wires.
I seem to attract animals indoors as well. Both of my brother's dogs insist on sitting on me when I come over. My sister-in-law's giant bird sent me into the fetal position with fear. And even in my own house bats have chosen to visit. Did I mention I am not animal person?
The way I see it I have two options: learn to like animals or carry large amounts of pepper spray with me. UGH.
We have a small cockapoo who was acquired to satisfy the needs of a toddler wanting a brother. I am not an animal person and really have no relationship with this animal, outside of walking it and feeding it and taking it to the vet. Our vet visits include the doctor and assistances talking baby talk to Jack (the dog). On our last visit the vet stated he needed to have his teeth cleaned which would include anesthesia and a bill for about $750. Hmmm, how about euthanizing him? Wouldn't that be cheaper? Ok, that was mean. Did I mention I am not an animal person? None the less, my son loves him and after about 9 years I am getting used to him. He is kind of cute, especially now that he has stopped using my piano as a fire hydrant.
Back to point. Jack has gotten loose on several occasions. He tends to slip out when someone comes in the house and then gets disoriented. We have fantastic people in the neighborhood who bring him back with a smile. No real harm done.
But this is a small little dog. Not a pit bull. If you are going to have a killer dog, shouldn't you have a fail safe way to keep him locked up? Over the past 6 months we have had three stray dogs in our yard. The first experience was with the neighbor's beasts: a dobermein and shepherd. My response was to stay locked in the house until they left. Next was the St. Bernard. An adorable dog who kept us trapped in the car, laying on the horn and screaming out the window until he moved and we could sprint to the back door to hide in the house. The last was a three legged black dog who happened to enter the yard without me knowing. A neighborhood runner saw the dog and rang the bell to let me know "my dog" was loose. Not my dog. Back to barricade in house.
One of the reasons I moved into the city is because I am not a fan of wildlife. Why has my yard become a dog hostel? Not too mention the several neighborhood cats who frequent our koi pond, the blue heron also likes the koi pond and the circus squirrels tightroping the phone wires.
I seem to attract animals indoors as well. Both of my brother's dogs insist on sitting on me when I come over. My sister-in-law's giant bird sent me into the fetal position with fear. And even in my own house bats have chosen to visit. Did I mention I am not animal person?
The way I see it I have two options: learn to like animals or carry large amounts of pepper spray with me. UGH.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Happy New Year!
I love New Year's Day. It is that blank piece of paper before you write or that first day of school or that hiring interview. Hopeful and full of possibilities. My resolutions are in place and I have not broken any of them yet. Off to a fantastic start.
I understand it is just another day and that I could wake up every single day with this attitude, starting anew and full of potential. The issues still remain. For people with health issues, they don't become better on the 1st and those with financial worries don't suddenly see $0 credit balances. But we can choose to to put that stake in the ground today and say I will do all I can.
We will err and basically screw up. So expect it but don't dwell on it. Pick a friend that you will plan to call when you fall. She/he will help you forgive yourself and encourage you to go on. Or maybe just laugh with you so you feel better. Maybe even refer back to this blog to help you remember those hopeful feelings on New Year's Day.
Call me conventional, but I think there is something more stimulating and encouraging about a new year. Almost like being pushed... no guided, into a fresh new world. You don't even have to think about picking a time and day to improve. Here it is. Brand new.
Happy 2010!
I understand it is just another day and that I could wake up every single day with this attitude, starting anew and full of potential. The issues still remain. For people with health issues, they don't become better on the 1st and those with financial worries don't suddenly see $0 credit balances. But we can choose to to put that stake in the ground today and say I will do all I can.
We will err and basically screw up. So expect it but don't dwell on it. Pick a friend that you will plan to call when you fall. She/he will help you forgive yourself and encourage you to go on. Or maybe just laugh with you so you feel better. Maybe even refer back to this blog to help you remember those hopeful feelings on New Year's Day.
Call me conventional, but I think there is something more stimulating and encouraging about a new year. Almost like being pushed... no guided, into a fresh new world. You don't even have to think about picking a time and day to improve. Here it is. Brand new.
Happy 2010!
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