There is a great story [all over the internet] about a golden retriever who adopted tiger cubs over at the Safari Zoological Park in Caney, KS. It is so cute! You can read the Boston.com article here.
Have a happy day!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Oooh, Jewelry!! And Other Stuff
More of my Etsy shopping has paid off! Yesterday I received a pair of earrings and a matching necklace that I got from MPS Craftworks. Of course I had to wear them today! Pretty, huh?
Being ever worried about an unforseen disaster (one of my many sweetly paranoid quirks), I downloaded and installed the software on my Mac last night. I got most of the living room logged, and now need to take some photos (I'll also do some videos in the upcoming weeks). This is something most of us have on our "to do" list, but I for one have never taken the time. Getting through a room left me with a sense of accomplishment.
Tonight will be haircuts (I know -- our lives are soooo exciting!).
Have a Happy Day!
Last night was pretty productive for us. We took a nice walk, did some clothes shopping for Michael's upcoming work trips, I did cat letters (TYs for SCFAW), and I worked on our Home Inventory. Home Inventory? The background: I got this from Lifehacker on Monday:
Know Your Stuff Inventories Your Home
Windows and Mac OS X: Offered as a free download from the Insurance Information Institute, the Know Your Stuff Home Inventory software is a full-featured tool for cataloging your possessions in case disaster should strike. Wizards guide you through the basic setup of your inventory, then using Know Your Stuff's simple interface you can add rooms and items to the inventory. For each item you enter you can assign photos, receipts or appraisals, make/model/serial number, quantity, and replacement cost.
There are guides to help you get started on the Know Your Stuff web site, very helpful if you've never done a home inventory before and aren't sure where to start or what to include in it. Obviously if you invest the time and energy to create a home inventory you'll want to make sure the it's is secure. From the Know Your Stuff application you can export the file you've created and save it to external media or to a remote location, upload the file to Vault 24 (a remote backup solution integrated into the software, which unfortunately costs $15 a year) , or you can go the old fashioned route and print the inventory off and store it in a safe location. The Know Your Stuff Home Inventory software is a free download for Windows or Mac.
Being ever worried about an unforseen disaster (one of my many sweetly paranoid quirks), I downloaded and installed the software on my Mac last night. I got most of the living room logged, and now need to take some photos (I'll also do some videos in the upcoming weeks). This is something most of us have on our "to do" list, but I for one have never taken the time. Getting through a room left me with a sense of accomplishment.
Tonight will be haircuts (I know -- our lives are soooo exciting!).
Have a Happy Day!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
morgueFile
This is one of those posts that started out with no direction... I thought, "What the heck am I going to write about today?" I suppose if I were a normal person, I just would not have blogged today. Therein lies the problem -- I am not normal :)
My original plan was to randomly post some files from morgueFile.com. morgueFile is a great resource if you are looking for a free, high resolution image for corporate or public use. I used a photo from there for Steve's Etsy banner.
This is the orginal image:
Which I made into the banner you saw this weekend:
There is so much cool imagery that it is worth stopping by the website when you have can't think of one simple thing to do on the net... Here are some of the recent images in their archive:
My original plan was to randomly post some files from morgueFile.com. morgueFile is a great resource if you are looking for a free, high resolution image for corporate or public use. I used a photo from there for Steve's Etsy banner.
This is the orginal image:
Which I made into the banner you saw this weekend:
There is so much cool imagery that it is worth stopping by the website when you have can't think of one simple thing to do on the net... Here are some of the recent images in their archive:
Kruger Park scenery, South Africa
Giraffe @ Kruger National Park, South Africa
Have a happy day!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Ben Taylor at Taste of Amherst - June 21
Drat!!! Another missed opportunity. Ben Taylor was at the River 93.9 Soundstage (Taste of Amherst) on June 21. We were busy thinking about the gathering, when he was just 30 miles away!!! Well, what can I do? I did find this video below, thanks to this James Taylor Forum posting. Ben is with David Saw performing "When I Was a Cowboy."
I know, it is crazy, but I really do like Ben Taylor. His music makes me smile!
Have a Happy Day!
I know, it is crazy, but I really do like Ben Taylor. His music makes me smile!
Have a Happy Day!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Happy Birthday, Steve!
Friday was Steve's birthday.
As you may realize by now, I usually do birthday posts after the big day, unless we've given our gifts before the birthday. So, my wishes online seem belated, even though they are pretty much on time in person. Glad I explained myself!
We began the quest for the perfect gift by asking ourselves the question we ask for each of our friends: "What would _______ like for their birthday?" Steve opened a store on Etsy in May to sell jewelry he makes, vintage jewelry, and other specialized items. Check out some of his items below.
Getting a store set up from scratch can be a big deal. It is done in stages, as each store owner has time. We wanted to help Steve customize his store front, so we made him a banner (the actual banner is larger, but has been downsized to fit this blog)
and an avatar.
Store owners usually include goodies with their shipments. We thought it would be fun to get him some Mini Cards from Moo so he can include samples of his other work, along with his contact info.
Aren't they pretty?
Of course, every gift needs a card (not that boys care too much about that). This one, from Miller Manor Designs, suits him well. What man doesn't love his tools?!
Happy Birthday, Steve!
Smiles!
As you may realize by now, I usually do birthday posts after the big day, unless we've given our gifts before the birthday. So, my wishes online seem belated, even though they are pretty much on time in person. Glad I explained myself!
We began the quest for the perfect gift by asking ourselves the question we ask for each of our friends: "What would _______ like for their birthday?" Steve opened a store on Etsy in May to sell jewelry he makes, vintage jewelry, and other specialized items. Check out some of his items below.
Getting a store set up from scratch can be a big deal. It is done in stages, as each store owner has time. We wanted to help Steve customize his store front, so we made him a banner (the actual banner is larger, but has been downsized to fit this blog)
and an avatar.
Store owners usually include goodies with their shipments. We thought it would be fun to get him some Mini Cards from Moo so he can include samples of his other work, along with his contact info.
Aren't they pretty?
Of course, every gift needs a card (not that boys care too much about that). This one, from Miller Manor Designs, suits him well. What man doesn't love his tools?!
Happy Birthday, Steve!
Smiles!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Point Brewery Blogs Naturist Society Fans Reaction
Point Beer's Blog at http://pointbeerblog.com/wp-trackback.php?p=37 has a great post showing the photo recreation of the Nude Beach beer label by the Black Beach Bares in San Diego. I see our friend Dave Cole in that picture!
Check it out:
Sweet!!! Time for the weekend for sure!
Have a Happy Day!
p.s. Happy Birthday, Steve! Your birthday post is coming!
Check it out:
Sweet!!! Time for the weekend for sure!
Have a Happy Day!
p.s. Happy Birthday, Steve! Your birthday post is coming!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Go Red Sox!
Connor got Mattie a special birthday gift. Isn't it cute?
The lengths we go to as Red Sox fans...
What Fiona really wants is for Mattie to wear a tutu like Ballet Kitty. I found this image online. It isn't Mattie, but maybe we can convince her...
Smiles!
The lengths we go to as Red Sox fans...
What Fiona really wants is for Mattie to wear a tutu like Ballet Kitty. I found this image online. It isn't Mattie, but maybe we can convince her...
The little guy named Zimmy also dresses up as a cowboy...
I think Mattie should be counting his lucky stars that all he had to wear was Red Sox hat!!!
Smiles!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
What I'm Reading (July)
It has been a while since I've shared what I have been reading. I didn't realize how behind I was until I started making the list of book. Sheesh! It is a long list!
 | The Whole Truth by David Baldacci Defense contractor Nicholas Creel knows no bounds in business. He wants to succeed at all costs. When he sets out to cause international upset, he thinks he'll get away with it. Unfortunately, he targeted the wrong woman. This book is pretty political, but was a good read and a page turner. |
 | Phantom Prey by John Sandford This is the latest in the Lucas Davenport series. He becomes involved in the murder of a young woman, whose killer has not been found. It is a twisted tale that kept me guessing until the end. I like the Davenport character, and Sandford keeps things interesting in this installement. |
 | Santa Fe Dead by Stuart Woods The next installment of the Ed Eagle series finds the main character being hunted down by his crazy ex-wife. It is pretty predictable, but an easy read. |
| Breath and Bones by Susan Cokal This book follows Famke Summerfugal from Denmark across the United States as Famke searches for her artist/lover Albert Castle. The book span's most of Famke's life as she experiences unlikely adventures. I found this one difficult to read and unbelievable. | |
 | Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber Set on Blossom Street, Twenty Wishes focuses on four widows and their hopes to regain their lives after losing their husbands. Anne Marie Roche owns the local bookstore (featured in previous Blossom Street books) and had desperately wanted a child before her husband passed away. Macomber successfully weaves a tale of change and new beginnings with Anne Marie at its center. I loved it. |
 | Summer by the Sea by Susan Wiggs This is an older book by Wiggs (2004) that has all of the charm of the later ones I have read. Set in a town near Providence, Rhode Island, Rosa Capoletti owns a local restaurant. Voted the "Most Romantic," the restaurant is a site of many proposals, but poor Rosa remains alone in love. Her heart was bruised by a romance in her teens and she struggles with those memories when the man at the center of those memories returns to town. I liked this one! |
 | The Liars Diary by Patry Francis I was turned on to this book by author Tess Gerritsen. The Cross family is the picture of perfection. The father is a doctor, the mother is devoted to her household and job, and the son is a popular teenager. The cracks in the veneer of perfection begin to show when Ali Mather shows up to teach music at the high school. I don't want to give much away on this one, but it was a well-written page-turner that I really enjoyed. |
 | Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich The latest installment in the Plum series finds Stephanie (and Joe) taking care of a teenage boy whose mother has gone missing. Search for a hidden treasure -- at Morelli's house -- causes mayhem and Stephanie is her normal nutty self. |
 | Blue-Eyed Devil by Lisa Kleypas Blue-Eyed Devil picks up where Sugar Daddy left off. The sexy and mysterious Hardy Cates is the main character along with Haven Travis. I liked this book, it was well-written, emotionally evocative, and had some good romance. |
 | Dead in Vineyard Sand by Philip R. Craig JW Jackson is back and involved in more strange happenings on the Vineyard. I love these books because I always picture the places Craig describes and think of how much I love the island. This is a great summer read. |
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Martha's Vineyard
We had a lot of fun on our trip to Martha's Vineyard this weekend. We've been so many times, and have tried to share the trip with others, but it is hard to visualize unless you've done. We decided to take a video of our trip this time around. If you want to view it directly, please go to http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-615649297761231855&hl=en. I recommend clicking the Google Video drop-down in the lower right corner (under the video) and choosing the options Double-Size and Smooth Video.
I hope you enjoy the video! I had fun making it, but not nearly as much fun as going to the beach :)
Have a great day!
I hope you enjoy the video! I had fun making it, but not nearly as much fun as going to the beach :)
Have a great day!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
More Mattie
Hmm... Mattie celebrated a bit too much for his birthday...
Hee hee! The real story is that I took this late Sat night/Sun morning. He was tired and wanted to go to bed (it was 2 am)... He had a happy birthday!
Smiles!
Smiles!
Happy 9th Birthday, Mattie!
From Mattie's original mom: "Mattie was born July 20, 1999 and adopted in late August in Arlington, VA. He enjoyed the Matisse prints on my walls and his striking markings reminded me of Matisse's collages. The name stuck, although it was almost immediately shortened to Mattie. Mattie has always been a gentle and kind soul that love all other beings."
I thought you'd like seeing Mattie as a little tyke. He was so cute (and still is!)
I hope to have another birthday posting later today, so check back for more!
Smiles!
Friday, July 18, 2008
Time for a Change
Mike and I have been struggling for months over what to do with our "other" website. We rolled it into a blog in January, but were not really satisfied with the feel of it. After much discussion and deliberation, we have re-instated the website with an updated look and feel. The updates to the style were made last year, but we didn't roll out then because we weren't "finished." We decided, enough! we'll finish when we can. I really like the new look of things. We are maintaining the blog (which is not this blog, but a separate one) as well. Hop on over to the website and let us know what you think!
If you don't know what website I am talking about, hmm... Either email me to ask or leave a comment below (with your email) and I'll provide the info.
Have a super weekend! We're off to the Vineyard again tomorrow. Can't wait!
If you don't know what website I am talking about, hmm... Either email me to ask or leave a comment below (with your email) and I'll provide the info.
Have a super weekend! We're off to the Vineyard again tomorrow. Can't wait!
Music Outside!
We did it! We now have music outside, thanks to the joint work of Mike and I. He did the mounting and wiring outside, through the foundation, and up through the wall. I connected the wires to the speaker and set everything up for our Zone 2, which can play different music than the main zone inside and has its own volume controls.
Not exciting for you, but it is for us!! Here's a video so you'll know what we're talking about...
Thanks a million to Mike's mom, Pat, for the wonderful birthday gifts. I LOVE THEM!
Have a great day!
Not exciting for you, but it is for us!! Here's a video so you'll know what we're talking about...
Thanks a million to Mike's mom, Pat, for the wonderful birthday gifts. I LOVE THEM!
Have a great day!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Tornadoes Game
I went to a Worcester Tornadoes game last night with Steve, Helen, Bob and Judy. We had a great time!
I didn't mention I was getting ready to take a picture when I started shooting with my phone (oops!)
I'm glad Steve and Helen are good sports.
Bob and Judy were willing, too :)
We even got a gift :) A booblehead of Kevin Shea (local sportscaster) that looks amazingly like Michael! Helen gave me one of theirs so we can give Connor and Fiona their own Uncle Michael bobble head. Thanks, Helen!
The game was going well when we left in the bottom of the ninth. I believe the Tornadoes won 5-4. It was a fun night!
Have a happy day!
I didn't mention I was getting ready to take a picture when I started shooting with my phone (oops!)
I'm glad Steve and Helen are good sports.
Bob and Judy were willing, too :)
We even got a gift :) A booblehead of Kevin Shea (local sportscaster) that looks amazingly like Michael! Helen gave me one of theirs so we can give Connor and Fiona their own Uncle Michael bobble head. Thanks, Helen!
The game was going well when we left in the bottom of the ninth. I believe the Tornadoes won 5-4. It was a fun night!
Have a happy day!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Fun in the Sun
Saturday was a beautiful day here in Massachusetts. We are so glad that we decided to spend it on Martha's Vineyard. We left the house at 5:30 am, intending to catch the 8:15 am ferry. We made good time getting to Woods Hole and arrived at the Steamship Authority by 7:15. Lucky for us, the Martha's Vineyard (ship), scheduled to leave at 7:00, was running behind. We were able to walk on just before it left the dock.
We were on the beach by 10:20 and had a fabulous day. A few walks on the beach, eating, chatting with friends, and playing in the ocean made the day zip by. It was 4:00 before we knew it! Our friends Alex and Joanne gave us a ride to Chilmark, where we caught the 5:22 pm bus to Oak Bluffs.
We walked around town, then enjoyed a lovely dinner at Linda Jean's. We lucked out again when we were able to get on one of the unscheduled (read freight) ferries at 7:45. The ship only holds 142 people, including those in vehicles and only 12 people were allowed to walk on.
We asked someone to take our photo, but it didn't capture for whatever reason. So, the only one we have is of me alone :( Mike really was there!
We were back home by 10:30. Showers, chatting, etc landed us in bed around midnight.
Can you hear me sighing in happiness? It was great!
Have a happy day!
We were on the beach by 10:20 and had a fabulous day. A few walks on the beach, eating, chatting with friends, and playing in the ocean made the day zip by. It was 4:00 before we knew it! Our friends Alex and Joanne gave us a ride to Chilmark, where we caught the 5:22 pm bus to Oak Bluffs.
We walked around town, then enjoyed a lovely dinner at Linda Jean's. We lucked out again when we were able to get on one of the unscheduled (read freight) ferries at 7:45. The ship only holds 142 people, including those in vehicles and only 12 people were allowed to walk on.
We asked someone to take our photo, but it didn't capture for whatever reason. So, the only one we have is of me alone :( Mike really was there!
We were back home by 10:30. Showers, chatting, etc landed us in bed around midnight.
Can you hear me sighing in happiness? It was great!
Have a happy day!
Monday, July 14, 2008
Menus make my tummy rumble...
I read this on Serious Eats Friday:
Do you see that?! 2986 menus online! Sweet! I wanted to see if it was actually any good, so I clicked on the Seafood category. I browsed through several menus, some I had seen before, some I had not. This service is pretty impressive. It is in my Google Bookmarks now...
I need to eat! Have a great day!
New York Magazine has bought Menupages, the invaluable menu archive and review site (oh-so handy for delivery) for eight major cities (New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, Washington, D.C., and South Florida). New York Magazine has already been doing pretty much the same thing for New York restaurants. Looks like a menu empire expansion!It made me think, Boston menus online? Cool! I popped on over to Menupages and changed the city from New York to Boston.
Do you see that?! 2986 menus online! Sweet! I wanted to see if it was actually any good, so I clicked on the Seafood category. I browsed through several menus, some I had seen before, some I had not. This service is pretty impressive. It is in my Google Bookmarks now...
I need to eat! Have a great day!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Where, Oh Where Did My Little Cat Go?
Mike and I are trying to work on the outdoor speakers. Apparently, Mattie wants to be close by but catch some ZZZs... Can you spot him?
Friday, July 11, 2008
David Saw: Broken Down Figure
Mike and I are heading to the Vineyard for the day tomorrow. Going to the Vineyard, or even thinking about it, always makes me think of certain people. Some are well known, others are regular people like us. One of the well known people is Ben Taylor. I love his music and always anxiously await his latest albums. The Legend of Kung Folk is coming out September 16 -- Woo Hoo! Anyhow, Ben Taylor teamed up with David Saw for Alive in the World, an album to benefit autism. The two have similar music styles, and I like David's music. After visiting the Ben Taylor Band site, I went to the label, Iris Records to get more scoop on The Legend of Kung Folk. The site played a music video that really sucked me in. Matter of fact, I really thought it was Ben Taylor.
Wrong! The video is David Saw singing his song Buy My Record, featured on Broken Down Figure (released March 2008). I loved it! There was a link to buy on iTunes ($9.90 for download) or on Amazon ($5.99 for download or $13.49 for the disc). I've never bought MP3s from Amazon before, and the price was right. I downloaded their MP3 downloader and purchased the album. A feature of their downloader is that it automatically adds purchased music to your iTunes or Windows Media Player installation. It worked seamlessly.
I've been listening to Broken Down Figure all morning. It is awesome! I like [the current genre of] Folk music. David Saw has a MySpace page, too. I cannot get to it currently (due to some nanny issues), but if it is like Ben Taylor's, it probably streams his music.
Enjoy, and Have a Happy Day!
Wrong! The video is David Saw singing his song Buy My Record, featured on Broken Down Figure (released March 2008). I loved it! There was a link to buy on iTunes ($9.90 for download) or on Amazon ($5.99 for download or $13.49 for the disc). I've never bought MP3s from Amazon before, and the price was right. I downloaded their MP3 downloader and purchased the album. A feature of their downloader is that it automatically adds purchased music to your iTunes or Windows Media Player installation. It worked seamlessly.
I've been listening to Broken Down Figure all morning. It is awesome! I like [the current genre of] Folk music. David Saw has a MySpace page, too. I cannot get to it currently (due to some nanny issues), but if it is like Ben Taylor's, it probably streams his music.
Enjoy, and Have a Happy Day!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Mattie on a Stage? Mattie in a Tutu?
Connor and Fiona arrived back in Massachusetts yesterday and provided endless delight to their Nana. One of the first things they told her was that they have a new book that features a cat wearing a tutu. Yes, that's right. A cat in a tutu. They thought it would be so much fun if they could dress up Mattie like the cat in the book. I wondered if Mattie had an inkling as to what was going on...
So the day went into night, and Michael and I got home from work. As we were eating dinner, Mattie retreated to his new favorite spot.
On the way into work this morning, I heard Nancy Pearl talking about a perfect travel book for 4-7 year olds called Chester. Here's part of what she said:
NPR created a slideshow using images from the book: Scenes from 'Chester,' by Melanie Watt (and Chester)
I don't know if this is the same book that Connor and Fiona are reading, but is sure sounded similar. It brought a big smile to my face!
Smiles!
So the day went into night, and Michael and I got home from work. As we were eating dinner, Mattie retreated to his new favorite spot.
On the way into work this morning, I heard Nancy Pearl talking about a perfect travel book for 4-7 year olds called Chester. Here's part of what she said:
"The book opens with Watt explaining that she's trying to write and illustrate a book about a mouse, a book that will begin: "Once upon a time there was a mouse. He lived in a house in the country." But her cat, Chester (aka the self-centered furball, according to Watt), won't let her get on with her story; he thinks that it's his book and he's in charge of creating it. (Chester, it should be noted, also thinks the letters in his name stand for: Charming; Handsome; Envy of Mouse; Smart; Talented; Envy of Mélanie; Really handsome.) Red marker in hand (or paw), Chester goes about editing Mélanie's manuscript, with hilarious results. Just when the reader thinks Watt has gotten the last word, or at least the last picture (of Chester in a pink tutu — could there be a more biting insult to any self-respecting cat?), Chester comes up with his own revenge."
NPR created a slideshow using images from the book: Scenes from 'Chester,' by Melanie Watt (and Chester)
I don't know if this is the same book that Connor and Fiona are reading, but is sure sounded similar. It brought a big smile to my face!
Smiles!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Hot Hot HOT
I know, I know. Everyone is suffering from the same heat. Phew! Mike and I took yesterday off for an appointment. We had a lovely lunch at O'Connors restaurant, our favorite Irish place. We indulged in Irish Potato Pizzas for an appetizer, with intention to take some home to watch during a movie (tonight?). I got the Broiled Chatham Sea Scallops and Mike got the Rory's Baked Seafood Platter. Delish!
We felt the need to do yard work when we returned home. Why, considering it was 90 degrees, I don't know. We put a bunch of the loam down that has been in the driveway since April. We also ran to Lowe's for grass seed and put it down. Mike started installing the outdoor speakers his mom got me for my birthday; I'll post pictures when we're finished. Ooh, maybe even a video. In the midst of the work, I took a little nap.
We managed to stay busy throughout the evening, too. Time sure does fly.
Speaking of flying, Deirdre, Connor, and Fiona are returning to Massachusetts today. They'll only be in town for a few days, but we hope to see them if possible.
Have a happy day!
We felt the need to do yard work when we returned home. Why, considering it was 90 degrees, I don't know. We put a bunch of the loam down that has been in the driveway since April. We also ran to Lowe's for grass seed and put it down. Mike started installing the outdoor speakers his mom got me for my birthday; I'll post pictures when we're finished. Ooh, maybe even a video. In the midst of the work, I took a little nap.
We managed to stay busy throughout the evening, too. Time sure does fly.
Speaking of flying, Deirdre, Connor, and Fiona are returning to Massachusetts today. They'll only be in town for a few days, but we hope to see them if possible.
Have a happy day!
Happy (Belated) Birthday, Carolyn!
Though we failed to tell you yesterday, we hope the day was great! Of course, we had fun giving our wishes in person last weekend!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
July Observances
Today is SCUD Day (Savor the Comic, Unplug the Drama). Have fun and be happy!
If that doesn't "do it" for you, here are some other holidays coming in the next week:
7/9: Martyrdom of The Bab
7/10: Clerihew Day
7/10: Don't Step On A Bee Day (why would you want to step on a bee?)
7/11: World Population Day
7/12: Hot Dog Day
7/12: Chicken Day (funny it is on the same day as hot dog day; more choices are better)
7/13: Embrace Your Geekness Day (oooh, a day just for me!)
7/13: Gruntled Workers Day
This week is also Nude Recreation Week -- perfect for this hot spell in New England!
Finally, some of the month's observances that make me giggle/smile:
Air-Conditioning Appreciation Days (7/3 to 8/15) -- oh yeah, I am appreciating it!
Blueberries Month -- mmm... Ask Mike about my blue tongue!
Cell Phone Courtesy Month -- shouldn't we be courteous all the time?
International Blondie and Deborah Harry Month -- woo hoo! She has her own month!
National Grilling Month
National Ice Cream Month
I am seeing nude, food, and coolness for July. Hey! Do you know what "Martyrdom of The Bab" or "Clerihew Day" are for? I don't!
Smiles
If that doesn't "do it" for you, here are some other holidays coming in the next week:
7/9: Martyrdom of The Bab
7/10: Clerihew Day
7/10: Don't Step On A Bee Day (why would you want to step on a bee?)
7/11: World Population Day
7/12: Hot Dog Day
7/12: Chicken Day (funny it is on the same day as hot dog day; more choices are better)
7/13: Embrace Your Geekness Day (oooh, a day just for me!)
7/13: Gruntled Workers Day
This week is also Nude Recreation Week -- perfect for this hot spell in New England!
Finally, some of the month's observances that make me giggle/smile:
Air-Conditioning Appreciation Days (7/3 to 8/15) -- oh yeah, I am appreciating it!
Blueberries Month -- mmm... Ask Mike about my blue tongue!
Cell Phone Courtesy Month -- shouldn't we be courteous all the time?
International Blondie and Deborah Harry Month -- woo hoo! She has her own month!
National Grilling Month
National Ice Cream Month
I am seeing nude, food, and coolness for July. Hey! Do you know what "Martyrdom of The Bab" or "Clerihew Day" are for? I don't!
Smiles
Monday, July 7, 2008
Fabulous Fourth
Happy 7th of July!
We had such a lovely weekend! We went to camp Thursday after work. It was a nice drive up and lots of people were there for the weekend.
First thing Friday morning, Steve helped Mike replace a piece on the awning. The repair seemed quick and easy. It sure made putting the awning up/down easier for Mike. Steve and Sherry had a fish fry on Friday afternoon. It was a huge hit, with [it seemed like] 70 people in attendance. There was a dance Friday night that was well attended.
My mom sent us a beautiful holiday greeting -- photos of the lilies in her pond. One of the photos is below.
Pretty, huh?
We celebrated Jean's birthday [early] on Friday, too.
The Outta Hand Band played for us Saturday afternoon. They ended up playing in the clubhouse because of the intermittent rain. The music was good. We're looking forward to having them play at Spaghetto this year. Steve and Helen invited us over for dinner on Saturday night, along with a small group of friends. Dinner was yummy! We made Cheesy Beef Casserole for the first time. It turned out well. Mike says we should add it to the recipes we make regularly. There was another dance Saturday night. It was surprisingly well-attended given the band and random revelry throughout the day Saturday.
We had a lovely 6th of July celebration with Nana Meow Meow yesterday. She graciously took care of her grandcat over the weekend. He is getting very spoiled. The weather was better yesterday than any other day of the weekend, so it was perfect for our cookout.
Mike and I ended the night by watching National Treasure: Book of Secrets. It was ok. As my mom would say, "Better than a poke in the eye!"
Have a happy day!
We had such a lovely weekend! We went to camp Thursday after work. It was a nice drive up and lots of people were there for the weekend.
First thing Friday morning, Steve helped Mike replace a piece on the awning. The repair seemed quick and easy. It sure made putting the awning up/down easier for Mike. Steve and Sherry had a fish fry on Friday afternoon. It was a huge hit, with [it seemed like] 70 people in attendance. There was a dance Friday night that was well attended.
My mom sent us a beautiful holiday greeting -- photos of the lilies in her pond. One of the photos is below.
Pretty, huh?
We celebrated Jean's birthday [early] on Friday, too.
The Outta Hand Band played for us Saturday afternoon. They ended up playing in the clubhouse because of the intermittent rain. The music was good. We're looking forward to having them play at Spaghetto this year. Steve and Helen invited us over for dinner on Saturday night, along with a small group of friends. Dinner was yummy! We made Cheesy Beef Casserole for the first time. It turned out well. Mike says we should add it to the recipes we make regularly. There was another dance Saturday night. It was surprisingly well-attended given the band and random revelry throughout the day Saturday.
We had a lovely 6th of July celebration with Nana Meow Meow yesterday. She graciously took care of her grandcat over the weekend. He is getting very spoiled. The weather was better yesterday than any other day of the weekend, so it was perfect for our cookout.
Mike and I ended the night by watching National Treasure: Book of Secrets. It was ok. As my mom would say, "Better than a poke in the eye!"
Have a happy day!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Random Thoughts
How can it be that I brush Mattie for 30 minutes, get a football-sized ball of hair, and he still sheds?
Embarrassing things always seem to happen to me when someone is watching. Does that mean that I don't do embarassing things when I am alone, or am I just oblivious?
I wear jeans to work so often that when I wear slacks or a skirt (dress) people ask, "Is there a training today?" I feel so lucky that jeans are an acceptable form of work dress for me!
Reading and music make me happy, but I often enjoy them while alone.
Remember, "How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a wood chuck could chuck wood?" Since I've grown up I know the answer: too damned much wood. Woodchucks wreak havoc!
Sitting in the bright sun while eating my lunch and reading book is a nice lunch break....
Happy thoughts!
Embarrassing things always seem to happen to me when someone is watching. Does that mean that I don't do embarassing things when I am alone, or am I just oblivious?
I wear jeans to work so often that when I wear slacks or a skirt (dress) people ask, "Is there a training today?" I feel so lucky that jeans are an acceptable form of work dress for me!
Reading and music make me happy, but I often enjoy them while alone.
Remember, "How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a wood chuck could chuck wood?" Since I've grown up I know the answer: too damned much wood. Woodchucks wreak havoc!
Sitting in the bright sun while eating my lunch and reading book is a nice lunch break....
Happy thoughts!
The Ultimate Lady's Cheesy Mac and Cheese
My mom made this recipe this week and proclaims it "YUMMY!"
The Ultimate Lady's Cheesy Mac and Cheese
by Paula Deen
2 cups dried elbow macaroni (4 cups cooked)
1/3 cup grated Cheddar
1/3 cup grated Swiss
1/3 cup grated Jack
1/3 cup grated colby
1/3 cup grated Muenster
1/3 cup grated Gouda
1/2 cup sour cream
4 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
6 eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup milk
Nonstick spray
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large pot, bring water to boil. Season water with salt and cook macaroni until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain pasta and place in a large bowl and while pasta is still hot add all the cheese. In a separate medium bowl, using a whisk, combine the sour cream, butter, eggs, salt, pepper, and milk and add to the macaroni mixture. Spray casserole dish with nonstick and pour macaroni mixture into the dish. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes or until golden brown. Top with additional cheese, if desired.
The Ultimate Lady's Cheesy Mac and Cheese
by Paula Deen
2 cups dried elbow macaroni (4 cups cooked)
1/3 cup grated Cheddar
1/3 cup grated Swiss
1/3 cup grated Jack
1/3 cup grated colby
1/3 cup grated Muenster
1/3 cup grated Gouda
1/2 cup sour cream
4 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
6 eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup milk
Nonstick spray
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large pot, bring water to boil. Season water with salt and cook macaroni until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain pasta and place in a large bowl and while pasta is still hot add all the cheese. In a separate medium bowl, using a whisk, combine the sour cream, butter, eggs, salt, pepper, and milk and add to the macaroni mixture. Spray casserole dish with nonstick and pour macaroni mixture into the dish. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes or until golden brown. Top with additional cheese, if desired.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
No Outside Lunch for Me!
I had a lovely lunch outside yesterday and was looking forward to lunch outside today. I guess it isn't meant to be...
Oh, well :) It will still be a nice lunch.
Oh, well :) It will still be a nice lunch.
Nude Beach Summer Wheat Beer
For the second and final installment of our gathering tales, I have to tell you about THE beer of the summer -- Stevens Point Brewery's Nude Beach Summer Wheat. The description on their site reads:
"Point Nude Beach is the perfect summer pleasure. Available only during the warm months of summer, this lively and unfiltered wheat ale is well balanced using "au naturel" raw and red wheat, then delicately finished with Yakima hops. With a refreshing light flavor, Point Nude Beach is perfect while enjoying summer activities or just hanging out with friends. Clothing optional.
Introduced: 2008
Availability: May 1 - August 1
Suggested Pairings: Chicken, Pork, Summer Salads, SPF 30 and Swim Suit (optional.)"
This is the beer tasting TNS had at the gathering. Led by master brewer Allan Baylis, naturists learned about the various brews Point Brewery offers and taste them. After the presentation we were invited to buy a Point Brewery t-shirt or TNS cup (each with a complimentary bottle). Cool!
We had a lot of fun at the tasting. We got silly at the end and we all laid on the lawn pretending to be passed out, with empty bottles all around. What a fun Friday :)
Have a happy day!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
DumAss Special Interest Group (SIG)
I wanted to start our vacation tales by sharing the part of the Gathering that was the most fun for me -- the DumAss SIG. What?!, you say? Well, you all knew I was a dumb ass, now it is official!
But, seriously, here is how things went. There was a "Closest to the Pin" event on Wednesday sponsored by the DumAss SIG. If you know about golf -- and I don't -- you know this is a tournament that involves hitting a golf ball towards the flag (known as a pin) at a par hole. The person with the closest distance to the pin is the winner. I am sure Mike knew this. I did not. One thing neither of us knew was what this SIG was, and who was in it.
We showed up at the putting green a bit before 11 am and found that Dave Cole was running the event. Dave is very active in the Naturist Society (TNS) and on his local beach, Black's Beach, in San Diego. Dave is also a really fun guy. Nearly everything he does involves smiles and good humor. We knew we were in for a treat.
As the event got underway, Dave told us that the schedule had mistakenly featured the first event of the SIG before the inaugural meeting. We decided that was okay, given that it is a DumAss SIG (which I'll refer to as DA). Dave pulled out some ping pong balls from a golf club bag and told us they were numbered. He also pulled out a small plastic bowling pin that would serve as the flag/pin. He explained the challenge to those of us who were unfamiliar with the Closet to the Pin tournys. We were all ready to start when he pulled out an itty bitty golf club set made for children.
Ok... This would be interesting. For most adults (excluding myself) the best way to hit the ball was on their knees. No one figured that out (#2 clue to us being at the right event). In all there were about 10 of us playing. The person who came closest to the pin won the entire golf set. I was envious -- it was fun!
The following day was the Inaugural East Coast meeting of the SIG. I did not mention that the SIG first met at the West Coast gathering last year. The west coast event was written up in N magazine in a such a non-descript way that there was no way to know what it was. The east coast inaugural meeting ended up being one of the most attended events at the gathering. Tons of people showed up just to find out what it was about. The answer? Just having fun! There are lots of serious workshops at the gatherings that focus on health, body, and political issues. Dave wanted to introduce a way for us to just be silly. We had a great deal of fun at the meeting and many of us shared stories of our own personal DA incidents.
Friday held another fun event, sponsored by the DA SIG, the Dressing "Silly" contest. We didn't have to dress up for the fun, we just had to arrive with our bodies. The Silly contest was scheduled concurrent with a beer sampling (more on that in another post), so we were doing pretty well when 10 people showed up. What would the costumes be? Why, Silly String! TNS had a case of silly string in 4 different colors. We were split into three groups of three, with one volunteer model for each group. The other two team members were charged with dressing the models.
Ironically, each team had one woman and each woman volunteered to be the model. I had no idea what to expect of this. It ended up being so much fun!!! My teammates did a fantastic job of creating my outfit (though we had some difficulty getting my dress to stay put on the right breast). The spray felt kind of cool and was pretty easy to control. Here I am before the judging:
After we were all dressed, the owners of Eastover, Ticki and Betsy, judged us. We were all winners and received a bottle of champagne.
When we disrobed, the silly string just slipped away. It didn't leave any goopy remains. That was pretty cool, too!
I took two things away from this fun part of the gathering: 1) I am now an official DumAss, 2) Silly string dress up could be a fun camp event.
Smiles!
But, seriously, here is how things went. There was a "Closest to the Pin" event on Wednesday sponsored by the DumAss SIG. If you know about golf -- and I don't -- you know this is a tournament that involves hitting a golf ball towards the flag (known as a pin) at a par hole. The person with the closest distance to the pin is the winner. I am sure Mike knew this. I did not. One thing neither of us knew was what this SIG was, and who was in it.
We showed up at the putting green a bit before 11 am and found that Dave Cole was running the event. Dave is very active in the Naturist Society (TNS) and on his local beach, Black's Beach, in San Diego. Dave is also a really fun guy. Nearly everything he does involves smiles and good humor. We knew we were in for a treat.
As the event got underway, Dave told us that the schedule had mistakenly featured the first event of the SIG before the inaugural meeting. We decided that was okay, given that it is a DumAss SIG (which I'll refer to as DA). Dave pulled out some ping pong balls from a golf club bag and told us they were numbered. He also pulled out a small plastic bowling pin that would serve as the flag/pin. He explained the challenge to those of us who were unfamiliar with the Closet to the Pin tournys. We were all ready to start when he pulled out an itty bitty golf club set made for children.Ok... This would be interesting. For most adults (excluding myself) the best way to hit the ball was on their knees. No one figured that out (#2 clue to us being at the right event). In all there were about 10 of us playing. The person who came closest to the pin won the entire golf set. I was envious -- it was fun!
The following day was the Inaugural East Coast meeting of the SIG. I did not mention that the SIG first met at the West Coast gathering last year. The west coast event was written up in N magazine in a such a non-descript way that there was no way to know what it was. The east coast inaugural meeting ended up being one of the most attended events at the gathering. Tons of people showed up just to find out what it was about. The answer? Just having fun! There are lots of serious workshops at the gatherings that focus on health, body, and political issues. Dave wanted to introduce a way for us to just be silly. We had a great deal of fun at the meeting and many of us shared stories of our own personal DA incidents.
Friday held another fun event, sponsored by the DA SIG, the Dressing "Silly" contest. We didn't have to dress up for the fun, we just had to arrive with our bodies. The Silly contest was scheduled concurrent with a beer sampling (more on that in another post), so we were doing pretty well when 10 people showed up. What would the costumes be? Why, Silly String! TNS had a case of silly string in 4 different colors. We were split into three groups of three, with one volunteer model for each group. The other two team members were charged with dressing the models.
Ironically, each team had one woman and each woman volunteered to be the model. I had no idea what to expect of this. It ended up being so much fun!!! My teammates did a fantastic job of creating my outfit (though we had some difficulty getting my dress to stay put on the right breast). The spray felt kind of cool and was pretty easy to control. Here I am before the judging:
After we were all dressed, the owners of Eastover, Ticki and Betsy, judged us. We were all winners and received a bottle of champagne.
When we disrobed, the silly string just slipped away. It didn't leave any goopy remains. That was pretty cool, too!
I took two things away from this fun part of the gathering: 1) I am now an official DumAss, 2) Silly string dress up could be a fun camp event.
Smiles!
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