I had a prescription waiting to be picked up at Costco, so that's the first place we stopped at this afternoon. Traffic was backed up getting into the parking lot, but we lucked out in finding a spot to park. Oh yeah, not only is it a Saturday, BUT it's payday, too.
Next we drove to West Salem to visit Orchard Hts. Vineyard. I wanted to take a better look at their giftshop. Their toffee and chocolate covered macadamia nuts make a great gift. Plus they have a nice tea and candle assortment.
Since we were in the vicinity we stopped at Eola Winery to taste and buy. We like the discount we receive as members of their cork sniffing club.
We tried watching our latest Netflix movie, A License to Wed, tonight. I was sure it would be a fun movie to watch in spite of the reviews. No such luck. Probably one of those good ideas with poor execution? It was hard to watch and it just wasn't that funny.
Last night I did enjoy the Audrey Tautou romantic comedy, Priceless, I streamed on the laptop via Netflix's site.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Tired of coughing
I'm sure I'm not alone. I hear coughing everywhere I go - when my ears aren't plugged up. :>/
I was feeling like I had more energy this morning, but after a couple of coughing fits I just want to hunker down in my jammies all day. I won't though. I'd hate to lose another weekend to laying low.
Izzy's cuddled up beside me here on the loveseat. I need to get up and vacuum, but she's my excuse to be idle. "Come on, Iz! Give me a nudge or a shove! Please?"
Things to do, places to go!
I was feeling like I had more energy this morning, but after a couple of coughing fits I just want to hunker down in my jammies all day. I won't though. I'd hate to lose another weekend to laying low.
Izzy's cuddled up beside me here on the loveseat. I need to get up and vacuum, but she's my excuse to be idle. "Come on, Iz! Give me a nudge or a shove! Please?"
Things to do, places to go!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Simple Pleasures
I just finished the weekly chore of putting clean sheets on the bed. It's going to feel so nice to crawl between them tonight. :>)
Yay for simple pleasures!
I became so involved in typing up the PMers wee stories this morning, that I completely spaced out the activity behind me. The next thing I knew someone else was taking them out for their snowy recess. I was kinda sad and yet I did enjoy the satisfaction of completing a job in one morning.
Doesn't happen that often at work. Interruptions are just a fact of life.
Yay for simple pleasures!
I became so involved in typing up the PMers wee stories this morning, that I completely spaced out the activity behind me. The next thing I knew someone else was taking them out for their snowy recess. I was kinda sad and yet I did enjoy the satisfaction of completing a job in one morning.
Doesn't happen that often at work. Interruptions are just a fact of life.
Really?
{sigh}
I was sooo sure we'd have at least an hour delay this morning. Yes, you do hear a winge in my typewritten word. How slick is it? (Just read that there are several school buses stuck in slick places - go figure!) That powder blue sky is pretty through the snow covered branches - I will admit that.
Stupid cough is getting worse - I apologize to everyone in the house I woke up with my noise.
I was sooo sure we'd have at least an hour delay this morning. Yes, you do hear a winge in my typewritten word. How slick is it? (Just read that there are several school buses stuck in slick places - go figure!) That powder blue sky is pretty through the snow covered branches - I will admit that.
Stupid cough is getting worse - I apologize to everyone in the house I woke up with my noise.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Double Take
An Afternoon observation -
School bus drivers jaywalking from bus garage across Hawthorne to employee parking lot.
School bus drivers jaywalking from bus garage across Hawthorne to employee parking lot.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Dirty dog?
I feel like a dirty, dastardly, dog, but I'd do it again. Out of concern, not to suck the fun out of someone's afternoon activity.
Izzy and I, went for a walk to the park a short while ago. This park is known for it's fun hills - in the summer you'll find young folk with pieces of cardboard or ice sliding down the dry grassy hillsides and if there's snow in the winter it's a hot spot for sledding. Today, I noticed 3 teens up at the top of the steepest hill; one holding a bmx bike and the other two setting up what looked like a modified step ladder. And then I spotted the skinny bike tracks coming down through the muddy grass, ending abruptly where the briars hide the drop-off to a sometimes busy street. "Oh for Pete's sake, Izzy! They're making a ramp to launch themselves into the air on their bikes!"
I called the police from my cell, hoping they'd arrive before someone hurt themselves. As Iz and I continued our walk it began to rain. So, I don't know if that's why the dare devils were gone when we swung back by or if a policeman happened to be close to our neighborhood and walked over to have a chat.
Just call me a fun sucker . . .
Izzy and I, went for a walk to the park a short while ago. This park is known for it's fun hills - in the summer you'll find young folk with pieces of cardboard or ice sliding down the dry grassy hillsides and if there's snow in the winter it's a hot spot for sledding. Today, I noticed 3 teens up at the top of the steepest hill; one holding a bmx bike and the other two setting up what looked like a modified step ladder. And then I spotted the skinny bike tracks coming down through the muddy grass, ending abruptly where the briars hide the drop-off to a sometimes busy street. "Oh for Pete's sake, Izzy! They're making a ramp to launch themselves into the air on their bikes!"
I called the police from my cell, hoping they'd arrive before someone hurt themselves. As Iz and I continued our walk it began to rain. So, I don't know if that's why the dare devils were gone when we swung back by or if a policeman happened to be close to our neighborhood and walked over to have a chat.
Just call me a fun sucker . . .
Relic from the past?
I think it's funny what's "old" to a short person.
I use a hot air popcorn popper for our 5 senses science activity. "What's that thing?", several of them exclaimed. "Oh yeah, I think my grandma has one of those."
But hey, I was surprised to see they're still being sold in stores!
Monday, February 23, 2009
What a difference a day makes
I'm glad to see that L's J is back to his old self after another reclusive Sunday. Good to hear him visiting and laughing in the living room with N and Fran.
I took Fran to her Cathy appointment this afternoon. Cathy believes as N and I do that perhaps the progress isn't enough to continue with the PT. BUT I'm not entirely certain. It has to be good just for her to be getting up and getting out and having some sort of muscular activity. I KNOW that it's been good for all of us to have Cathy as an advocate and a sounding board. We were all so gun ho when we began this. Now I just feel resigned and beaten. So many deadends, so many disappointments. I want my old Fran back. I want her able to continue on with her life and ambitions. {sigh}
"Ah Izzy! If you want to play, please bring me a toy!"
Tomorrow is 5 senses day in science. I have my "let's read and find out about science" book by Aliki, my hot air popcorn popper, cups for serving and popcorn. I'm not sure what to do about next week's science, since N and I take Fran to her one year lung check up at OHSU. Maybe another day of the week will be necessary.
I took Fran to her Cathy appointment this afternoon. Cathy believes as N and I do that perhaps the progress isn't enough to continue with the PT. BUT I'm not entirely certain. It has to be good just for her to be getting up and getting out and having some sort of muscular activity. I KNOW that it's been good for all of us to have Cathy as an advocate and a sounding board. We were all so gun ho when we began this. Now I just feel resigned and beaten. So many deadends, so many disappointments. I want my old Fran back. I want her able to continue on with her life and ambitions. {sigh}
"Ah Izzy! If you want to play, please bring me a toy!"
Tomorrow is 5 senses day in science. I have my "let's read and find out about science" book by Aliki, my hot air popcorn popper, cups for serving and popcorn. I'm not sure what to do about next week's science, since N and I take Fran to her one year lung check up at OHSU. Maybe another day of the week will be necessary.
Kicking off the last week of February
N spent 99% of his weekend working on our main computer. If this past weekend was another 3 dayer, I'm sure he'd find himself in this chair for yet another day.
The guts of the computer have been making threatening noises and statements for several months. Plus, N discovered that he had maxed out the ability to add more RAM. And so last week he found a refurbished HP online. It'll be nice to be able to use my graphics software and have a tab heavy browser open at the same time. Hey! That means I'll be able to use this computer to edit video! Hot dog!
This bystander believes that the worst part of the job was moving files from one computer to the other. He used PCMover to do the job and a handy little application he found a few months ago that seeks out duplicate files for deletion. The extra hard drives he installed in the old computer will be farmed out to both the new set-up and Fran's computer down in Ashland. We're thinking the best place for what remains will be with the short people and the small in-room lab I keep up. Kid Pix, Reader Rabbit or Bailey's Bookhouse, won't be nearly the drain on it's resources as home use by several users.
On a different note, I'm glad I was able to get some sleep last night with this naggy cough. Can't wait to tell it good-bye.
The guts of the computer have been making threatening noises and statements for several months. Plus, N discovered that he had maxed out the ability to add more RAM. And so last week he found a refurbished HP online. It'll be nice to be able to use my graphics software and have a tab heavy browser open at the same time. Hey! That means I'll be able to use this computer to edit video! Hot dog!
This bystander believes that the worst part of the job was moving files from one computer to the other. He used PCMover to do the job and a handy little application he found a few months ago that seeks out duplicate files for deletion. The extra hard drives he installed in the old computer will be farmed out to both the new set-up and Fran's computer down in Ashland. We're thinking the best place for what remains will be with the short people and the small in-room lab I keep up. Kid Pix, Reader Rabbit or Bailey's Bookhouse, won't be nearly the drain on it's resources as home use by several users.
On a different note, I'm glad I was able to get some sleep last night with this naggy cough. Can't wait to tell it good-bye.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
A delightful evening
I was ready for a diversion last night - crying parent, ranting co-worker.
How perfect to end the day enjoying the company of new friends, their adorable children and some good food. :>)
And now my thoughts turn to what the title, "surrogate parents", might entitle us to? Babysitting? Camping trips?
oooo! Careful K! You're getting out of control!
Izzy's in my lap, reclined, relaxed and forcing me to type with one sideways hand.
Is it a problem? Nope! Definitely not!
How perfect to end the day enjoying the company of new friends, their adorable children and some good food. :>)
And now my thoughts turn to what the title, "surrogate parents", might entitle us to? Babysitting? Camping trips?
oooo! Careful K! You're getting out of control!
Izzy's in my lap, reclined, relaxed and forcing me to type with one sideways hand.
Is it a problem? Nope! Definitely not!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Heartbreaking
Today a parent called me into the back room to explain (she tried anyway) why her wee ones might be displaying different from normal behavior. She began to cry and I knew immediately what the cause was. It breaks my heart whenever parents have serious relationship problems.
We've already had one family break apart this school year. Is it the economy? Is it the changing roles with children beginning school? Whatever it is, I wish it would stop.
My simplistic thought? Shake both of the parents and then tell them in my sternest school voice, "take a good hard look at those little faces and dig in and work at this relationship! try harder, dammit!"
We've already had one family break apart this school year. Is it the economy? Is it the changing roles with children beginning school? Whatever it is, I wish it would stop.
My simplistic thought? Shake both of the parents and then tell them in my sternest school voice, "take a good hard look at those little faces and dig in and work at this relationship! try harder, dammit!"
Trying as hard as I can to stay well
{Calculating in head . . . too early for math!}
My first 4 decades predictably found me suffering from bronchitis every winter. Some years worse than others (at least I never cracked a rib coughing). In my forties, my doctor began trying different things - one of which was a pneumonia shot. I'm not entirely sure, but it seemed like in the following years my bronchitis wasn't as severe. About 4 years ago, after learning about some of the latest research, my doctor prescribed an inhaler to use whenever I began coughing. I haven't had bronchitis since. Hallelujah!
I've been doing my best to keep this latest bug from keeping me down. I'm not feeling horrible. More like I'm dragging a very small anchor around with me during the last part of each day. I surrendered to the sheets at 8:30 last night and slept straight through to the 5:30 alarm. :>)
My goal is to get through the next couple of weeks without plugged ears or losing my voice.
My first 4 decades predictably found me suffering from bronchitis every winter. Some years worse than others (at least I never cracked a rib coughing). In my forties, my doctor began trying different things - one of which was a pneumonia shot. I'm not entirely sure, but it seemed like in the following years my bronchitis wasn't as severe. About 4 years ago, after learning about some of the latest research, my doctor prescribed an inhaler to use whenever I began coughing. I haven't had bronchitis since. Hallelujah!
I've been doing my best to keep this latest bug from keeping me down. I'm not feeling horrible. More like I'm dragging a very small anchor around with me during the last part of each day. I surrendered to the sheets at 8:30 last night and slept straight through to the 5:30 alarm. :>)
My goal is to get through the next couple of weeks without plugged ears or losing my voice.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
What goes through a puppy's mind?
We're clear on what a treat is.
We love the game of catch-me-if-you-can.
We sit on command - unless we have other priorities, of course.
Sometimes we play fetch.
Rather than "come", we're happy to come-take-a-look-at-you, but we're anxious about your motives human.
But RARELY do we come close (arm's length is close enough, thank you!) to a human when called.
We love the game of catch-me-if-you-can.
We sit on command - unless we have other priorities, of course.
Sometimes we play fetch.
Rather than "come", we're happy to come-take-a-look-at-you, but we're anxious about your motives human.
But RARELY do we come close (arm's length is close enough, thank you!) to a human when called.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Writing Ain't Easy When You're a Short Person
Boy, the short folk (for the most part) rose to the challenge of writing today. I love watching them think and apply those pencils to paper, trying to fill up their pages with sentences.
N's is spending extra time at work tonight. They have a deadline for grant work tomorrow morning. I feel guilty for not taking one of Fran's appointments today and yesterday.
I was hoping to hear back from schnauzer Kathi today . . .
N's is spending extra time at work tonight. They have a deadline for grant work tomorrow morning. I feel guilty for not taking one of Fran's appointments today and yesterday.
I was hoping to hear back from schnauzer Kathi today . . .
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Jammie Pants Radius
Yup, another reference to "How I Met Your Mother".
N and I just returned from taking the dogs for a walk. Not wanting to take the time to delay this late evening walk, we decided to proceed with the "usual nighttime attire" - to the park, through the park and home. :>)
Do you think plaid jammie pants glow in the headlights? There's a frightening thought . . . evidently not frightening enough to take the time to tug on the jeans.
N and I just returned from taking the dogs for a walk. Not wanting to take the time to delay this late evening walk, we decided to proceed with the "usual nighttime attire" - to the park, through the park and home. :>)
Do you think plaid jammie pants glow in the headlights? There's a frightening thought . . . evidently not frightening enough to take the time to tug on the jeans.
I'm happy to share with you. Are you happy to share with me?
I'm glad I was fairly well prepared mentally for the Monday that is really a Tuesday. Our science magnet lesson went well. I added a few things for the PMers, but they're ready to listen and absorb compared to the wiggly, noisy AM. I love those cow magnets! Especially the part where I tell them why they're called cow magnets.
L and I worked on a new seating chart. It's past time to correct some issues and put some new short people together for social variety. It'll be interesting to see how the latest experiment pans out. ;>)
My email to the schnauzer lady brought a reply of an available 8 year old female. I wonder how that would work in the household? If she's a retired breeding dog, she'll be used to having other animals around. The downside would be having only 4 or so years of her companionship.
L and I worked on a new seating chart. It's past time to correct some issues and put some new short people together for social variety. It'll be interesting to see how the latest experiment pans out. ;>)
My email to the schnauzer lady brought a reply of an available 8 year old female. I wonder how that would work in the household? If she's a retired breeding dog, she'll be used to having other animals around. The downside would be having only 4 or so years of her companionship.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Grooming
I'm afraid to go into the kitchen. It's so nice and peaceful right now.
BUT I know that will change once I round the corner.
Izzy's getting a trim. Lise and N are probably just fine without me and yet I feel guilty.
Gretel was such a good little patient (although, she did have her moments) when it came to grooming.
Oops! I just heard N say her name and the word "no". Maybe it's time Grandma ventured into the grooming zone . . .
BUT I know that will change once I round the corner.
Izzy's getting a trim. Lise and N are probably just fine without me and yet I feel guilty.
Gretel was such a good little patient (although, she did have her moments) when it came to grooming.
Oops! I just heard N say her name and the word "no". Maybe it's time Grandma ventured into the grooming zone . . .
Exposed - all due to tipping my hand . . .
Another nice day today! I'm glad the weather forecast was wrong for our area.
Lise, N and I, took the opportunity to head down to the new bistro in town. Parking is tight, so we had to walk over from the other side of the block. Walking and food together? That's a good thing!
We'll definitely be back. They're on the same level as Sassy. Funny thing was - a couple of Sassy employees were eating at a table on the other side of the front dining room.
I'm so worried we're going to space out Fran's PT appointment this afternoon. I should go set the timer now. She hasn't been feeling well the past couple of days. I hope this helps and doesn't make it worse.
Izzy's watching Lise. Always watching. A baby at the bistro reminded me of that trait. She watched every move her adults made and then tried to copy. Hard to do when they've moved everything out of your reach.
We really need to give Izzy a trim today. She looks like a fuzzy little bear.
Lise, N and I, took the opportunity to head down to the new bistro in town. Parking is tight, so we had to walk over from the other side of the block. Walking and food together? That's a good thing!
We'll definitely be back. They're on the same level as Sassy. Funny thing was - a couple of Sassy employees were eating at a table on the other side of the front dining room.
I'm so worried we're going to space out Fran's PT appointment this afternoon. I should go set the timer now. She hasn't been feeling well the past couple of days. I hope this helps and doesn't make it worse.
Izzy's watching Lise. Always watching. A baby at the bistro reminded me of that trait. She watched every move her adults made and then tried to copy. Hard to do when they've moved everything out of your reach.
We really need to give Izzy a trim today. She looks like a fuzzy little bear.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Taking our time
Lise and I finished several (she said I'm wrong and she may be right) chores today, took the dogs for a walk, messed around online and then went to Fred's and took our time going down a good share of the aisles.
After we stopped to get her a Jamba Juice, we went home to get started on mac and cheese for dinner.
During all of the above, N worked on his bike to get it ready for riding now that the days are getting longer.
Yay for weekends and getting caught up on the details!
After we stopped to get her a Jamba Juice, we went home to get started on mac and cheese for dinner.
During all of the above, N worked on his bike to get it ready for riding now that the days are getting longer.
Yay for weekends and getting caught up on the details!
Meandering morning post
Hmmmm, remembering why I don't like my coffee on the weak side . . . :>P
N's making a big breakfast :>) and Izzy is chewing on a toy. Oops! I mean she chewed up one of her toys! One of her favorites, too. It's been fun to watch her bat that ball around and carry it to the kitchen floor where she can get more action with it.
My Gmail page is showing rain, but it's not here yet.
N and I were going to go to a new local bistro for dessert last night (8:30), but chickened out when we saw an empty parking lot. We've never been able to get past that over all these years. N suggested we use the gift certificate for breakfast or lunch. Salem Man is waaay too generous. Especially when I compare the work Lise and I have done compared to all he does on the blog.
I hope Lise doesn't sleep in too long this morning. It would be nice to go find something to do.
N's making a big breakfast :>) and Izzy is chewing on a toy. Oops! I mean she chewed up one of her toys! One of her favorites, too. It's been fun to watch her bat that ball around and carry it to the kitchen floor where she can get more action with it.
My Gmail page is showing rain, but it's not here yet.
N and I were going to go to a new local bistro for dessert last night (8:30), but chickened out when we saw an empty parking lot. We've never been able to get past that over all these years. N suggested we use the gift certificate for breakfast or lunch. Salem Man is waaay too generous. Especially when I compare the work Lise and I have done compared to all he does on the blog.
I hope Lise doesn't sleep in too long this morning. It would be nice to go find something to do.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy Birthday Oregon!
I'm glad I remembered to read "O is for Oregon" to the short people yesterday. I found that book at Costco. On the cover it reads, "a book by kids, for kids". It made for the perfect chance to talk about the state's birthday. Even if they were extremely jazzed about Vday.
I heard there's a big cake (big enough to feed 3,000) waiting for everyone at the capitol. Since parking will be the issue of the day, I'm glad to see it's not raining.
Plus, Santiam Wine Co. is having a free tasting of Merlot and moonstruck chocolate today. Guess I better get ready to do SOMETHING. :>)
Had my therapy session with Karyn yesterday after work. Well, okay, so it's a haircut . . . but the woman's a wonderful listener and empath. As well as an amazing stylist.
Onward to the day!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Peaceful Warrior excerpt
Here's my favorite excerpt from the book "Peaceful Warrior", by Dan Millman. I read the book years ago. Not much else from the book stuck with me, except it was written to invite self exploration.
"I once knew a guy like you:
"I met him on a construction site in the Midwest. When the lunch whistle blew, all the workers would sit down together to eat. And every day, Sam would open his lunch pail and start to complain.
"'Son of a gun!'" he'd cry, 'not peanut butter and jelly sandwiches again. I hate peanut butter and jelly!'
"He whined about his peanut butter and jelly sandwiches day after day after day until one of the guys on the work crew finally said, 'Fer crissakes, Sam, if you hate peanut butter and jelly so much, why don't you just tell yer ol' lady to make you something different?'
"'What do you mean, my ol' lady?' Sam replied. 'I'm not married. I make my own sandwiches.'" -- [Quote Source: Millman, Dan. Way of the Peaceful Warrior; 20th Anniversary Edition. P. 28]
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Joining the club
I was hoping to avoid membership for several more years - but today I was recruited into the "you need a crown" club. bleh I was able to put it off until June, since it's not an emergency.
BUT I've put off my valentines long enough. They're printed, now to cut them apart and tape the wee candy bars on. (I love that Little Brown Bear by Johnny Gruelle!) I wanted to get something special for our 3 peanut allergic children, but most candy seems to have the warning.
On my way home from work today I saw something that made me curious about "the rest of the story". A big Dodge truck was parked on the shoulder. The driver looked like he was checking out a tire. I slowed down (just to be cautious and courteous) as I passed by and sitting on top of the front tire was a big, fluffy, grey, striped cat. In my rear view mirror I saw the man continue to walk around and check out his truck. He had to be looking for that cat, right?
BUT I've put off my valentines long enough. They're printed, now to cut them apart and tape the wee candy bars on. (I love that Little Brown Bear by Johnny Gruelle!) I wanted to get something special for our 3 peanut allergic children, but most candy seems to have the warning.
On my way home from work today I saw something that made me curious about "the rest of the story". A big Dodge truck was parked on the shoulder. The driver looked like he was checking out a tire. I slowed down (just to be cautious and courteous) as I passed by and sitting on top of the front tire was a big, fluffy, grey, striped cat. In my rear view mirror I saw the man continue to walk around and check out his truck. He had to be looking for that cat, right?
Church Meeting
I don't know if we'll get back into our Wednesday night groove again, but it was nice to sit across the table from N for a leisurely evening out. Once again I'm amazed at the very full parking lot at Thompson's and walking in to find available tables. It HAS to be due to a majority of diners driving their own car. I'm finally getting used to the wait staff warning about delayed meals from their kitchen. Heck, we don't go there for fast food! The complaints must have increased enough that the managers decided they need to say something?
There was a vehicle with government plates in Thompson's parking lot and the conversation from the table next to us seemed to match. Now I'm even more curious whether there was some kind of law enforcement gathering in town. My first nudge came from the stats page showing someone from the Canadian Mounties was looking up places to eat in town. NASA visited this morning, but their search was more generic - citywise.
Onward to Thursday and an afternoon dental check-up.
There was a vehicle with government plates in Thompson's parking lot and the conversation from the table next to us seemed to match. Now I'm even more curious whether there was some kind of law enforcement gathering in town. My first nudge came from the stats page showing someone from the Canadian Mounties was looking up places to eat in town. NASA visited this morning, but their search was more generic - citywise.
Onward to Thursday and an afternoon dental check-up.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Petri Dish
{After writing the title I can't get the image of Petri from The Muppet Show out of my head . . . }
Fran and I had our unexpected appointment date this afternoon. I sure hope everything went okay with the short people. {sigh}
After she was done with Cathy, we stopped off at Costco. As we waited in line at the gas pumps, we grumbled and griped over the Washingtonian breaking line to scoot in front of the person just finishing up at the second from the front pump. "What is that dummy doing?! Oh!! He's from Washington!" Funny to think that the state to the north of us has a different culture when it comes to waiting in line to gas up. I've never witnessed a Californian do this. Have you?
Wonderful Cathy was able to adjust the new forearm crutches to the correct height. :>)
I knew she'd be the solution.
Izzy and I are still a wee bit skunky round the edges. Her collar is waay stinky, tho. And it's been soaking all day; first in lime juice, then DeSolvIt and now hydrogen peroxide. Guess I should go invest in some Summer's Eve . . .
Fran and I had our unexpected appointment date this afternoon. I sure hope everything went okay with the short people. {sigh}
After she was done with Cathy, we stopped off at Costco. As we waited in line at the gas pumps, we grumbled and griped over the Washingtonian breaking line to scoot in front of the person just finishing up at the second from the front pump. "What is that dummy doing?! Oh!! He's from Washington!" Funny to think that the state to the north of us has a different culture when it comes to waiting in line to gas up. I've never witnessed a Californian do this. Have you?
Wonderful Cathy was able to adjust the new forearm crutches to the correct height. :>)
I knew she'd be the solution.
Izzy and I are still a wee bit skunky round the edges. Her collar is waay stinky, tho. And it's been soaking all day; first in lime juice, then DeSolvIt and now hydrogen peroxide. Guess I should go invest in some Summer's Eve . . .
Be honest, do I smell like skunk to you?
I've been waiting for this day. Not in a happy hopeful way, but in a, 'Oh bother! How long am I going to smell like this?', way.
We have a skunk that lives somewhere near our house. It used to spend time in our crawl space. There have been several mornings when I've spotted it in the backyard under the bird feeders. A few times I anxiously watched it scuttle away right after I had let Izzy out. I forgot to look this morning. As soon as I walked over to the sliding glass door to let Izzy in, I knew. I carefully slid open the door just enough to grab her and take her directly into the shower. The taste of skunk is still in my mouth. It must've still been hanging in the air when I knelt down to ease her into the house. bleh, bleh, bleh!
We took a shower together, but I don't have a clue how we smell.
We have a skunk that lives somewhere near our house. It used to spend time in our crawl space. There have been several mornings when I've spotted it in the backyard under the bird feeders. A few times I anxiously watched it scuttle away right after I had let Izzy out. I forgot to look this morning. As soon as I walked over to the sliding glass door to let Izzy in, I knew. I carefully slid open the door just enough to grab her and take her directly into the shower. The taste of skunk is still in my mouth. It must've still been hanging in the air when I knelt down to ease her into the house. bleh, bleh, bleh!
We took a shower together, but I don't have a clue how we smell.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Que Sera Sera
I keep forgetting to make my Valentines whenever I sit my bum in this chair. Don't I understand how little time I have left??
Fran's up on her kitchen stool making dinner. That hasn't happened in awhile. Good to see. Maybe she heard me thinking about making comfort food tonight. She does have awfully good radar.
I didn't take Izzy on her walk after work today. Not sure why. Harder to sneak out if Nixon's not in his crate. I feel bad not taking him to the park anymore, but L&J don't think there's any benefit to his health. It is easier just taking one dog, but still I feel bad.
I better go scoop the litter box. Seems to fill up so quickly these days.
Fran's up on her kitchen stool making dinner. That hasn't happened in awhile. Good to see. Maybe she heard me thinking about making comfort food tonight. She does have awfully good radar.
I didn't take Izzy on her walk after work today. Not sure why. Harder to sneak out if Nixon's not in his crate. I feel bad not taking him to the park anymore, but L&J don't think there's any benefit to his health. It is easier just taking one dog, but still I feel bad.
I better go scoop the litter box. Seems to fill up so quickly these days.
Monday, February 9, 2009
K is thankful for K
I so glad Kim is able to take over my PM slot when I have to take Fran to her appointments. It eases my anxiety over leaving the PMers once a week. I know it makes it easier for LB, too. Probably seems silly to some, but I'm glad the timing of things makes it possible for me to greet them before leaving.
Tomorrow we do "Hear Your Heart", in science. This time, for a change, I'm going to try using cardboard tubes instead of stethoscopes. I borrowed Nancy's set just in case it doesn't work out with the AMers. Every year, there seems to be a number of the short people whose expectations for what their heart sounds like is much different than the reality. I searched online for an audio file of a heart beat a few years ago, but didn't find any of good quality. Too bad I didn't think of that when I had the ear of the OHSU professor who wanted to make a recording of Fran's chest sounds. He would've been a good resource if he was willing to share.
Tomorrow we do "Hear Your Heart", in science. This time, for a change, I'm going to try using cardboard tubes instead of stethoscopes. I borrowed Nancy's set just in case it doesn't work out with the AMers. Every year, there seems to be a number of the short people whose expectations for what their heart sounds like is much different than the reality. I searched online for an audio file of a heart beat a few years ago, but didn't find any of good quality. Too bad I didn't think of that when I had the ear of the OHSU professor who wanted to make a recording of Fran's chest sounds. He would've been a good resource if he was willing to share.
Tomato and Basil Hummus
Here's a recipe I'm eager to try after buying (and enjoying) a small container at TJs.
Tomato Basil Hummus
By cybele pascal
Created May 23 2007 - 11:19am
(Vegetarian [0], Vegan, Gluten-Free)
When you make your own from scratch you can be sure to use a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, such as olive oil rather than the mystery "vegetable oil" found in most store bought hummus. So take the extra two minutes to whip up fresh, all natural and preservative-free hummus for your kids.
Ingredients
1 small clove garlic (make sure it's not overly pungent, some garlic is very strong)
2/3 cup diced organic tomatoes (try Muir Glenn [1])
1 15 oz can organic chickpeas, drained
1/4 cup tahini
4 tsp. organic tomato paste
3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
3 Tbsp. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. kosher salt to taste (some brands of canned chickpeas have a lot of salt already added, so taste first)
2 Tbsp. chopped basil
Preparation
Puree garlic in food processor. Add tomatoes, puree. Add chickpeas, tahini, tomato paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and cumin. Puree until smooth. Taste and add salt if necessary. Add basil and puree. Serve in a bowl surrounded by mini carrots, sugar snap peas, sweet cherry tomatoes, cucumber spears, pita triangles, etc.
Makes 2 cups.
Tomato Basil Hummus
By cybele pascal
Created May 23 2007 - 11:19am
(Vegetarian [0], Vegan, Gluten-Free)
When you make your own from scratch you can be sure to use a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, such as olive oil rather than the mystery "vegetable oil" found in most store bought hummus. So take the extra two minutes to whip up fresh, all natural and preservative-free hummus for your kids.
Ingredients
1 small clove garlic (make sure it's not overly pungent, some garlic is very strong)
2/3 cup diced organic tomatoes (try Muir Glenn [1])
1 15 oz can organic chickpeas, drained
1/4 cup tahini
4 tsp. organic tomato paste
3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
3 Tbsp. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. kosher salt to taste (some brands of canned chickpeas have a lot of salt already added, so taste first)
2 Tbsp. chopped basil
Preparation
Puree garlic in food processor. Add tomatoes, puree. Add chickpeas, tahini, tomato paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and cumin. Puree until smooth. Taste and add salt if necessary. Add basil and puree. Serve in a bowl surrounded by mini carrots, sugar snap peas, sweet cherry tomatoes, cucumber spears, pita triangles, etc.
Makes 2 cups.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Heard on the radio
Okay, maybe I'm a wimp, but I found the following comment from a sports radio channel slightly disturbing:
Two ex-jocks talking about getting ready for their commentator jobs: "do you prefer a more natural look or heavier coverage when it comes to make-up?"
Two ex-jocks talking about getting ready for their commentator jobs: "do you prefer a more natural look or heavier coverage when it comes to make-up?"
Teamwork
Let's see how that shared to do list does today. I'd be pleased if people picked 3 things apiece to accomplish. Funny how assumed roles can carry out through people's lives. Probably for different reasons? But now? "Together Everyone Accomplishes More"
One chore a day? Maybe when you were a child that would've sufficed.
It was fun at Eat Salem night last night. I was surprised at how anxious I was waiting for people to arrive. Once I saw and met them they seemed so familiar. I thought maybe it was the holiday slide show, but now I'm pretty sure I remember them from our first ES night at Apizza. While we paid for our meal that night, a famly was over by the foosball table, checking it out.
Now to figure out the details of picking up Fran and Izzy today. That'll be a chunk of our day, but we're happy to do it for the girl.
One chore a day? Maybe when you were a child that would've sufficed.
It was fun at Eat Salem night last night. I was surprised at how anxious I was waiting for people to arrive. Once I saw and met them they seemed so familiar. I thought maybe it was the holiday slide show, but now I'm pretty sure I remember them from our first ES night at Apizza. While we paid for our meal that night, a famly was over by the foosball table, checking it out.
Now to figure out the details of picking up Fran and Izzy today. That'll be a chunk of our day, but we're happy to do it for the girl.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
A little indulgence
I felt bad how late we invaded Gwen and Randy's home. Then we dumped Fran, Iz and all the needed paraphernalia and made it to Sutherlin before we realized there was still something hidden in a rear compartment. So back we went.
It was around 11:30 by the time we made it to our destination - Cottage Grove. We wanted to treat ourselves to a night of just the two of us and a bottle of wine. We were disappointed and surprised that they ended their complimentary breakfast at 9 am. On a Saturday?! Oh come on! And so we motored into their downtown and stopped at the Coffee Cup Restaurant. The best part of my breakfast? The person on the other side of the booth and the service. I've had bland breakfasts before, but this one rose to the top of the list. But at least it was hot and served with a smile.
I can't wait to go to the Eat Salem night tonight. It'll be fun to meet people.
N's out painting the PVC pipe squares on the clematis trellis. I just finished vacuuming. I took my time to pick-up as much pet hair and dust as possible. I washed the couch blankets and now I'm fluffing couch pillows and arm covers. Bath towels are next on the wash list. Sorry about the detailed list, guess I'm thinking outloud and trying to figure out what to do next.
It was around 11:30 by the time we made it to our destination - Cottage Grove. We wanted to treat ourselves to a night of just the two of us and a bottle of wine. We were disappointed and surprised that they ended their complimentary breakfast at 9 am. On a Saturday?! Oh come on! And so we motored into their downtown and stopped at the Coffee Cup Restaurant. The best part of my breakfast? The person on the other side of the booth and the service. I've had bland breakfasts before, but this one rose to the top of the list. But at least it was hot and served with a smile.
I can't wait to go to the Eat Salem night tonight. It'll be fun to meet people.
N's out painting the PVC pipe squares on the clematis trellis. I just finished vacuuming. I took my time to pick-up as much pet hair and dust as possible. I washed the couch blankets and now I'm fluffing couch pillows and arm covers. Bath towels are next on the wash list. Sorry about the detailed list, guess I'm thinking outloud and trying to figure out what to do next.
Friday, February 6, 2009
The Old Man is Snoring
I'm trying to wrap my head around getting things ready to take Fran to Rosieburg this evening.
I hope the rain stops by then. Of course, at this time of the year it's either rain or fog. I heard on the news that there's a possible chance of snow at the 500 ft level on Sunday night. Just a reminder that it's still winter.
Now . . . what to have the short people do on Kid Pix today.
I hope the rain stops by then. Of course, at this time of the year it's either rain or fog. I heard on the news that there's a possible chance of snow at the 500 ft level on Sunday night. Just a reminder that it's still winter.
Now . . . what to have the short people do on Kid Pix today.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Streaker!
While walking the dogs at the park this afternoon, I spotted two big, black dogs cruising around loose and without people. My first impulse was to panic a bit and reel the dogs' leashes in. Nixon can be unpredictable during strange dog encounters and Izzy just gets overly excited. Nixon's leash wouldn't operate correctly (or so I thought) and their strings were wound once around my ankles. Ugh! Boy, was I glad when the dogs skittered away when they caught sight of this human.
I completed (I think) a computer project for a teacher friend this evening. I thought it would take a lot longer than it did. I hope it's what she wanted.
I set-up two blogs last night, but I haven't heard any peeps from the people I sent invites to. Maybe I jumped the gun.
I completed (I think) a computer project for a teacher friend this evening. I thought it would take a lot longer than it did. I hope it's what she wanted.
I set-up two blogs last night, but I haven't heard any peeps from the people I sent invites to. Maybe I jumped the gun.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
and what exactly is the definition of *free*?
It's been a long time since N and I have done a "seat of the pants" stir-fry. Thank goodness, I still had a bottle of one of the sauces we used to use. I was worried it would be too hot without using a mixture of the regular with the hot, but it was fine. Great, in fact! Maybe aging makes it mellower?
I read a cooking blog the other day and they shared a recipe for their own seat of the pants quick dinner stir-fry. They like to make a mess of stir-fried cabbage with some Chinese hot sauce, soy sauce and a few other ingredients. One of their favorites, but who would've guessed.
Fran's asleep and has the remote. None of us has gone to retrieve it, but then all 3 of us have a computer we're messing with, too.
I'm uploading new videos to the kg blog. Not the most exciting videos, but they're cute. I feel bad for not getting everyone in the PM, but since we have one family who wishes to abstain from the vids I avoid the table where their child sits.
Signing off from my cozy house. :>)
PS for Leesee - tomorrow the forearm crutch people will knock on the door. I hope they'll arrive when you're home to answer the door. Love you!
I read a cooking blog the other day and they shared a recipe for their own seat of the pants quick dinner stir-fry. They like to make a mess of stir-fried cabbage with some Chinese hot sauce, soy sauce and a few other ingredients. One of their favorites, but who would've guessed.
Fran's asleep and has the remote. None of us has gone to retrieve it, but then all 3 of us have a computer we're messing with, too.
I'm uploading new videos to the kg blog. Not the most exciting videos, but they're cute. I feel bad for not getting everyone in the PM, but since we have one family who wishes to abstain from the vids I avoid the table where their child sits.
Signing off from my cozy house. :>)
PS for Leesee - tomorrow the forearm crutch people will knock on the door. I hope they'll arrive when you're home to answer the door. Love you!
Warm fuzzy feelings
Who knew our old furnace was doing such a lousy job?
Well, deep down I'm sure we DID know and knew it was slowly getting worse with each winter. It's wonderful to have a steady temp in the house AND to have the actual temp and the programmed temp be the same.
I hope our bills reflect the efficiency of this new unit.
Well, deep down I'm sure we DID know and knew it was slowly getting worse with each winter. It's wonderful to have a steady temp in the house AND to have the actual temp and the programmed temp be the same.
I hope our bills reflect the efficiency of this new unit.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Where everybody knows my name . . .
After my call to Fran's doctor's office this morning, I was concerned about what the outcome would be. We've had horrible experiences in the past whenever Pat is gone and has a fill in. My phone began to shiver in my pocket during lunch. Happy news! A new prescription was written for a slightly different pill and was ready to pick-up.
Mental note to K: you have errands to run after work.
After a stop at the credit union, I motored across town to the doctors office and picked up that important slip of paper. And then it was off to Costco. I'd forgotten about my membership showing as expired from the day before, but I thought it would be resolved like the manager hopefully suggested. A stop at the photo counter to pick-up short people pics and I discovered that the problem hadn't gone away. Again, Lonnie the manager, came over to override my transaction. The photo clerk told me that if she was me she'd head to the membership counter to make sure it was taken care of. So off I went. I had a good time exchanging ribs and one liners at the expense of the supervisor who was responsible for the incorrect keying in of my membership. Another supervisor was called over. She redid the whole thing and wished me a good day. I took Fran's prescription over to the pharmacy and proceeded to buy a few odds and ends. I unloaded my cart onto the conveyor belt at check-out and went to pull out my card. Oh oh. Where was it?? Membership counter! I told the cashier and she sent someone over to retrieve it. On my way out of the store, I stopped to get my receipt checked and heard someone calling my name. It was the clerk at the photo counter. :>) She'd found a packet of photos from a month ago and remembered I'd just been there.
Nothing like that small town feeling . . . at a major retailing establishment. ;>)
Mental note to K: you have errands to run after work.
After a stop at the credit union, I motored across town to the doctors office and picked up that important slip of paper. And then it was off to Costco. I'd forgotten about my membership showing as expired from the day before, but I thought it would be resolved like the manager hopefully suggested. A stop at the photo counter to pick-up short people pics and I discovered that the problem hadn't gone away. Again, Lonnie the manager, came over to override my transaction. The photo clerk told me that if she was me she'd head to the membership counter to make sure it was taken care of. So off I went. I had a good time exchanging ribs and one liners at the expense of the supervisor who was responsible for the incorrect keying in of my membership. Another supervisor was called over. She redid the whole thing and wished me a good day. I took Fran's prescription over to the pharmacy and proceeded to buy a few odds and ends. I unloaded my cart onto the conveyor belt at check-out and went to pull out my card. Oh oh. Where was it?? Membership counter! I told the cashier and she sent someone over to retrieve it. On my way out of the store, I stopped to get my receipt checked and heard someone calling my name. It was the clerk at the photo counter. :>) She'd found a packet of photos from a month ago and remembered I'd just been there.
Nothing like that small town feeling . . . at a major retailing establishment. ;>)
Working it all out
Yesterday, I felt like I was doing a lousy job in the Fran department. Not that everything in the cosmos is within my control, but . . .
Evidently there's a shortage of oxy co done (not sure I want this to pop up in the searches being done across the nation). What's a person in pain to do? I'm going to give her doc a call before I leave to work this morning. "What can we do to solve this?"
Also she and her J had hoped to get together this weekend. It's usually no problem, but this weekend is one of those rare ones where N and i actually have plans. Looks like it'll work to drive her down to Rosieburg Friday night. And then retrieving her on Sunday.
I want a magic litter box. Is that asking too much?
Evidently there's a shortage of oxy co done (not sure I want this to pop up in the searches being done across the nation). What's a person in pain to do? I'm going to give her doc a call before I leave to work this morning. "What can we do to solve this?"
Also she and her J had hoped to get together this weekend. It's usually no problem, but this weekend is one of those rare ones where N and i actually have plans. Looks like it'll work to drive her down to Rosieburg Friday night. And then retrieving her on Sunday.
I want a magic litter box. Is that asking too much?
Monday, February 2, 2009
Tales from the Monday
It was good seeing and being able to chat with Cathy after 2 months.
I'm glad Fran's back in the saddle. It's been almost a year since she was in OHSU for those 13 agonizing days. Thanks to the short people's parents keeping their sick children home and my flu shot, I haven't been sick this school year. Me well = Fran well.
On Thursday her fore arm crutches will be delivered. I need to remember to call them and let them know that it may take some time for the door to be answered if Lise has left for work.
N's out in the garage getting the area around the furnace tidy for tomorrow's replacement. It'll be good to have a more efficient furnace and water heater. It'll be good to get the tax credits for next year's taxes and to have our monthly bills reduced. AND it would be good if the new furnace will last as long as this one has.
I sent Google an email yesterday. I want them to make a device I can hang on the wall that displays my Picasa photos in a slide show above my google calendar. I think it would be AWESOME. Like they'll listen to me! Hahaha!
I'm glad Fran's back in the saddle. It's been almost a year since she was in OHSU for those 13 agonizing days. Thanks to the short people's parents keeping their sick children home and my flu shot, I haven't been sick this school year. Me well = Fran well.
On Thursday her fore arm crutches will be delivered. I need to remember to call them and let them know that it may take some time for the door to be answered if Lise has left for work.
N's out in the garage getting the area around the furnace tidy for tomorrow's replacement. It'll be good to have a more efficient furnace and water heater. It'll be good to get the tax credits for next year's taxes and to have our monthly bills reduced. AND it would be good if the new furnace will last as long as this one has.
I sent Google an email yesterday. I want them to make a device I can hang on the wall that displays my Picasa photos in a slide show above my google calendar. I think it would be AWESOME. Like they'll listen to me! Hahaha!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Pictures in my and Lise's heads
What would a pro basketball game look like if some of the players let their long locks hang free and allow their hair to flow behind them as they dribble down the court?
Things that make me happy
Yeah, it doesn't take much.
I was kinda sad when Kim told me that Masterpiece Theatre's, "Wuthering Heights", was amazingly wonderful and I'd missed all opportunities to see it this time around. {sigh} I hate not being able to tape with this silly set-up the young Comcast tech & co. decided on. {double sigh}
BUT the good news, is that I found out I can watch it online.
I'd rather watch it with the others in the house who enjoy such things, but I'll take it.
You're right, Kim, it was amazingly wonderful!
I was kinda sad when Kim told me that Masterpiece Theatre's, "Wuthering Heights", was amazingly wonderful and I'd missed all opportunities to see it this time around. {sigh} I hate not being able to tape with this silly set-up the young Comcast tech & co. decided on. {double sigh}
BUT the good news, is that I found out I can watch it online.
I'd rather watch it with the others in the house who enjoy such things, but I'll take it.
You're right, Kim, it was amazingly wonderful!
February is such a tidy month this year
We watched Amazing Grace, our Netflix movie, last night. Very well done, although I wouldn't call it outstanding. I found it interesting to learn about William Wilberforce and his role in making the slave trade illegal in Great Britain.
I'm trying to decide what to do today. I did the bulk of my weekend chores yesterday so today would be more laid back. It was good to have clean sheets, but what was NOT good was finding out that one of the cats had loosened the wall plug for the waterbed heater again. Brrrr!! We found an extra quilt to lay on top of the bottom sheet to keep us warm. Sleeping alone probably wouldn't have worked, but the quilt and having each other made it workable.
I have two canine buddies on the loveseat with me supervising my typing. I'm glad Izzy and Zuzu have the opportunity to play together in the mornings. They're so fun to watch. Izzy's become less concerned about the slapping paws and Zuzu has become more curious about being able to touch Izzy's face without her jumping away.
I'm trying to decide what to do today. I did the bulk of my weekend chores yesterday so today would be more laid back. It was good to have clean sheets, but what was NOT good was finding out that one of the cats had loosened the wall plug for the waterbed heater again. Brrrr!! We found an extra quilt to lay on top of the bottom sheet to keep us warm. Sleeping alone probably wouldn't have worked, but the quilt and having each other made it workable.
I have two canine buddies on the loveseat with me supervising my typing. I'm glad Izzy and Zuzu have the opportunity to play together in the mornings. They're so fun to watch. Izzy's become less concerned about the slapping paws and Zuzu has become more curious about being able to touch Izzy's face without her jumping away.
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