Musings by Mugwhump

Needing Gumption

2011-05-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

As you may or may not have noticed, I've been kinda sorta absent for several months now. Not sure why because I've still visited on a daily basis, just not writing anything. So, in an effort to get going again I need your help .... if you're even still visiting me or have completely given up on me . . . Ask me anything, or give me a topic to expound upon. Please keep it "G" rated.

I'll try to do my best impression of a blogger.

Cheers,
LJ

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T18:30:00.001-07:00

Pretty Much Represents

2011-03-31T10:47:00.001-07:00

What the writing process looks like.

Thank you Boing Boing.

Little Known Update

2011-03-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

I get to add a candle to the cake of my life tomorrow.

Call the fire-department. It's going to be a blazer.

49

Doesn't seem real. But I'll deal.

Darth Vader would be proud

2011-02-03T15:45:00.001-08:00

I know this is floating around out there, but I had to share it with you.

A New Read!!!

2011-01-27T15:28:00.000-08:00

A friend put me on to this new blog (new to me), and it is HI-LARRY-US! Particularly "Dongs Don't Understand Basic Concepts Like Moving".

Hyperbole and a Half

Take a minute and give it a read (since I'm not writing these days. She's way more funnier than me anyways.)

Happy New Year

2011-01-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

This is my cats doppleganger!

Merry Ho Ho!

2010-12-22T10:00:00.001-08:00

Not quite as cute as the last one, but ...... I couldn't help myself.

Other things just crack me up. And I apologize in advance.

I have a new title

2010-12-18T19:08:00.000-08:00

My husband and I decided to launch out and do some Christmas shopping on the last Saturday before Christmas. Crazy or what?

Anyway during errands I needed to drop an item off at a friends place. Angela is the daughter of a co-worker and she and her three children visit the office often for coffee and a visit. (Gotta love a casual work place). So I've got to know and love her three kids - a 2.5 yr old boy, a 4 yr old girl, and a 9 yr old girl.

I've grown very attached to the kids and I think the feeling is mutual.

When we dropped in on them today they had a couple of cousins over playing. We had quick chats and we left.

Angela called me a couple of hours later to tell me that she overheard this conversation between "K" (the 9 yr old) and her cousin:

Cousin: Who's LJ?
K: She's my adult best friend.
Cousin: What do you mean?
K: She's an adult and she's my best friend.

Now doesn't that warm the cockles of your ever-lovin' heart?

Super Cute

2010-12-14T15:16:00.001-08:00

Advice Please

2010-12-13T15:31:00.000-08:00

We can keep out cat out of our Christmas tree. If it weren't for the fact that it was fake and has built in lights - it would have no decoration at all. Even the angel on top is ready to jump shit.

Not amount of "time outs" work. Not amount of hauling by the scruff of the neck teaches the lesson.

We're at our witts end (not far to go in the first place, mind you), and don't know what to do for Christmas. Can we get away without actually decorating it?

There's an actual hallow all the way around the middle were he's bent down all the branches.

We don't know what to do next, and euthanasia seems like a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

What do you do with a problem like Pirate?

Been there, done that

2010-12-09T10:45:00.000-08:00

I had to laugh when I saw this. I hope you do too.

No Peeking ....

2010-12-08T11:29:00.000-08:00

It must be December. I seem to barely come up for air these days, but its all good.

I had to share my most recent creation with you my very supportive readers. And in a crush to figure out family gifts I decided that some felting was in order. So if you're a family member of mine ..... don't read any further (Katie you won't tell you dad will you?).

Here is a picture of Sasha my oldest brothers dog. Sasha passed away a couple of years ago, but has a very special place in my brothers heart. She went everywhere with him. Cross Country skiing, hiking, camping .... life. And I know that she left a giant hole in his heart when her years were up.

And here is my rendition of her in felt.

What say you? Did I do ok? I hope my brother likes it, and part of me wishes I could be there when he opens it up, and part of me .... is a little worried. Guys are funny that way - you never know if you've hit the mark with them when it comes to gifts.

Is it just me, or are men hard to buy for?

On a side note: I have a girlfriend who sells things at craft fairs, and she participated in a small one last week. She asked me if I'd like her to try to sell some of my work at the fair. So on a lark I pulled all the ones that I would sell, threw some reasonable price tags on them, and sent them away with her. A dozen pieces or so on my prides and joys - except one. One particular little penguin was something I made at a workshop and is in a completely different style then I like to work. I didn't like him even enough to give him away. I can't even show you a picture, because I never took one.

Wouldn't you know it .... that stupid little penguin was the ONLY thing that sold. There's no accounting for taste.

I am not dissuaded. I will continue to create AND create the way I want too! So there.

Please accept my resignation. I don't want to belong to any club that will accept me as a member.

2010-11-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

Groucho Marx said that, but its something (or a paraphrase of) I've used often. Back in October a girlfriend asked me if I was interested in joining a group of ladies that held a "P.P.P." evening.

Now, before I get into what the 3 P's group is all about I have to tell you that I tend not to 'join' anything. When I commit to something I really want to COMMIT to it. I want to make sure that I will 100% participate in whatever it is that I've agreed to do. Hence, I don't tend to sign up for much. I'm very much afraid of letting people down, even myself. So I take the chicken way out and don't get involved with much.

But ..... I also realized that since my husband in not a social person that I also really needed to make an effort to get out and be with people on a social level, and in particular women. I'm an introvert at heart, but I like people enough to want to spend some time in the company of. Outside of work of course, but I can overdose on people just by the nature of my job.

So anyway - against my husbands cautioning of not being able to commit to things I sallied forth and said 'yes' to this once a month feminine social gathering of 12.

I've been to 2 evenings so far, and so far - I've enjoyed myself very much. Now to the explanation of what the three P's are:

1) Party
2) Pig-out
3) Pamper

Simple isn't it? Simple rules to follow as well. We only have 12 (somewhat random) women who have been invited into the group to meet on a once a month basis. You must commit to it for one year. Once a month one women hosts the evening (any evening of her choosing and everyone else's availability). The only thing the host needs to supply is some forms of beverage and a "party" place. The other women each bring the "Pig-out" food offerings. Each women also brings $20 for the pot and sometime during the evening a draw is held with the names of the ladies attending (with the exception of the hostess). The winner of the draw is the designated hostess for the next month, and she gets the pot of $240. Here comes the "pamper" part - sometime before the next gathering the winner and next hostess is to do something out-of-the-ordinary special for herself with the $240. She is NOT to spend it on bills. She is NOT to spend it on her children or family. She is NOT to spend it on groceries. She is ONLY to pamper herself with something she wouldn't normally do. Then she has to tell us what she did with the money when we gather again at her house.

At my first meeting with these ladies (and I must add here that I only knew 3 of the ladies, and that was by coincidence outside of the lady who invited me. So this is a unique way of meeting new people) the women who won the pot was so excited, she immediately announced that she was going to get a "Brazilian Blowout". Which I understand that for people who have uncontrollably curly hair and want straight hair this is the biggest news since sliced bread.

HOWEVER - this procedure has been banned in Canada and she wasn't able to do the do. It seems there's this little chemical called formaldehyde that gets created in the process and its a bit frowned upon up here in the great white north.

Don't worry, the lady in question still pampered herself with an extremely expensive hair cute and facial.

The next pot winner - who will be hosting next month, has decided that we will do a Christmas tree decoration swap. We are each to bring a decoration that best describes us, and we exchange them anonymously and have to guess who the giver was. In following years as you put up the ornament you think fondly of the fellow PPP member.

So, I will continue with this club until they find out I'm a member and kick me out.

(P.S. Anyone care to guess what I'll do for my ornament?)

To All My American Friends

2010-11-25T09:47:00.000-08:00

Aspiring to Bigger Things - But Afraid

2010-11-18T13:09:00.000-08:00

Many of you are well aware of the needle felting craft I took up about a year ago. Each little creation comes from my heart, and often - starting them is the most difficult thing. I have very little confidence in my abilities, but do try to push those thoughts to the side and just go with my heart. I've had a lot of fun making the items, and hope not to stop any time soon.

Recently I purchased a new book called "Needle Felting - To The Point" by an artist that simply goes by Harlan. I aspire to be this good.

The artists ability to create so much detail and expression leaves me in complete awe.

This one, is my all time favourite.

It is so extraordinarily cat-like, it takes my breath away.

So when people (and by people I mean Lin) ask/hint to me to create something so specific and special as their own pet - I panic. And by no means do I intone that Lin should feel bad for her suggestion. It's legitimate, but it feels so far beyond my capabilities to do justice to the project.

You see - - - I never want to disappoint people. I don't want to attempt and fail.

It's one thing to create a mythical figure or animal from my head. Somehow that gives me no impression of need for perfection. When its a creature/creation that has simply come from my imagination, I only have to set the bar to my height. But when its a very specific item that means more to the receiver of the gift than to me - that bar feels beyond reach.

Do I sound hard on myself? I probably am. It's only ever been in my artistic endeavours that I've felt so passionate about competency. I sucked as a student in school. A top grade of C+ made me giddy with accomplishment. But not when it came to my art. That was in a field all on its own.

Where am I going with the entry? I have no idea. I have been inspired by recently encouragement (you know who you are), and this new needle felting book has fed flame to the fire. There very well may be an orange stripey cat in my not-to-distant future attempts. You'll just have to stay tuned to find out.

This Would Be A Very Cool Experience!

2010-11-17T14:31:00.001-08:00

I had to add this one because it cracked me up.

For more of this last one - check out improverywhere.com HIGH-Larious!!!

32 Truths for Mature Humans

2010-11-15T15:59:00.001-08:00

You've probably already seen this or received it as a frwd, but I saw it today and it gave me a much needed snicker.

I'd like to add that I totally don't get #5. It's simple if you really think about it.

A Productive Holiday

2010-11-12T11:15:00.000-08:00

There's nothing like a holiday mid week to make me happy.

Our office was closed yesterday and I'm back in today. A little discombobulating, but I'm not complaining.

But I had a most excellent day yesterday - let me tell you about it. I didn't wake/get up until 10:45am!!! Can you spell - I NEEDED SOME SLEEP! And made a point of not rushing into anything. Just play the day out as it was to go. Point in fact: I didn't get out of my PJ's until 5pm when we went out to dinner. Talk about lazy.

However, lazy only went as far as my mode of dress. I pulled out my laptop and my crafting gear and plunked myself down for some good movie watching and Christmas card making.

I'd missed the airing of "Glee - Rocky Horror" episode, so I'd downloaded it and sang along. Then I moved on to the first two episodes of "The Event". A new show on this fall, and the jury is still out on whether I'll keep watching it. Then I moved over to Netflix and watched "All About Steve" with Sandra Bullock. I love Sandra Bullock - even if this movie wasn't great, I still love me some Sandra.

Through all of the watching and listening I managed to make 18 Christmas cards from scratch. I am most please with myself!!

I suppose I should have assisted my husband, who took it upon himself to vacuum the house as well as condition the leather furniture. But far be it from me to get in the way of a husband doing domestic duties ..... no, I stayed glued to my kitchen table, paper crafting, television watching - and enjoyed every stinking minute of it.

Later that even, after closing up the craft shop and dinner - I settled in for some regular TV with the hubby and needle felting.

I really do have a thing for multi-tasking don't I.

Anyway - I finished a 3rd and smaller gecko. A friend of mine will be having a table at a craft fair next month and has kindly volunteered to sell some of my works. I've got several more projects to complete for it, but in the end - what I get done, I get done. I can't push myself any harder than that otherwise it takes the fun out of the hobby. The stressful point is trying to figure out what the items are worth ..... I won't go there now.

So all in all I had a great holiday day. I do thank the soldiers who keep our country safe, and who have kept our country safe. Both my grandfathers served in the 1st World War, and my parents in the 2nd World War. I never knew any of my grandparents, but do have war mementos to remind me of the sacrifices they made. Thanks.

Bring It On!!!

2010-11-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

Meet Larry, a distant cousin to Liz (previous entry).

And a cup of coffee for the guy who has everything.

I seem to be on a role. Which is a good thing. I should be thinking about Christmas gifts, but alas .... those kinds of inspirations aren't coming nearly so easily.

A Very Creative Weekend!!

2010-11-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

I love it when a plan comes together!!!

I had a very fruitful, creative weekend. I got 30 Christmas cards assembled and completed. Now I just need to come up with a new design (which I have in my head) and 30 more. And that will take some pressure off there.

Also . . . I completed my newest needle felting project.

This little fellow was for no other reason than for the fun of crafting. He's up for sale if anyone is interested. Just drop me a comment and let me know.

I think I'll try a white squirrel next, but I was also entertaining the thought of creating a mug of coffee ....... Oh the possibilities.

P.S. What should I name him/her?

P.S.S. Lin has suggested "Liz" as a name and I've accepted! Thanks Lin.

P.S.S.S. I have since made a Cup of Coffee and will post a picture soon.

Reminds Me of My Wee Friends

2010-10-29T09:09:00.000-07:00

This video came across my path this morning and it reminded me of watching the baby hummingbirds in the spring. What a rare treat to get to watch them grow up and leave the nest.

Video

Enjoy and Happy Weekend!

Oh Ya - Stay safe out there kids!

POST SCRIPT: Lin suggestion of "Liz" to name the creation has been accepted by the creator.

1 Challenge - 3 Projects (COMPLETED!!)

2010-10-23T22:08:00.002-07:00

A Purple Cow for Purple Cow

A Ninja for Mr. Anon

And a Bumbles for The Bumbles

Actually, I had a lot of fun. I'm now trying to figure out what to do next. But before you rush suggestions - I'm sure I'll think of some of my own.

Thanks again to all the encouragement and challenge. You got the creative juices flowing.

Thanks for Responding!

2010-10-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

A big "hola" to Purple Cow, Mr. Anon (but I know who you are), and The Bumbles for responding to my previous entry's challenge.

As there were only three of you I could NOT just pick two. So I will be creating something delightful for each of you.

In an effort to get better in the mood I visited my favourite wool shop on the weekend. I love "Knotty By Nature" - they have the most beautiful yarns and raw wool! Colours and textures galore. Ahhhhh ......

A really big thank you to you three for assisting in getting me started again.

I tried to get into the Christmas card making on the weekend but failed miserably. Alas, this too will need some prodding, but as it is still October, I'm feeling confident that things will come together. I did make a couple of birthday cards, so all was not lost.

Onwards and upwards!

Hunkering Down For Winter

2010-10-15T13:36:00.001-07:00

There is something about this time of year that makes me want to hunker down and do my crafts and (more) reading. I'm a good 4 weeks behind in my Christmas card planning. I have bought the set I will be working with, but have yet to put ink and acrylic to paper.

My needle felting back has several partially started items in it, patiently waiting for me to grow a creative bone.

I'm still in a reading-fit and can't seem to get out of it.

Lately I've been wanting to pick up my knitting needles again, but don't think I can spread myself into 'another' direction .... the husband can only hand so much.

I must switch gears as time is awastin'! Christmas is only two months away and there are many miles to go before I sleep.

What I need to do is set myself a goal. That's where you come in (and I only just thought this as I was writing up this entry). I need you to challenge me - in a good way, and not about my spelling (Mr. Annonymous). For the all commenters on this post I will do a draw and choose 2 - then I will create and send either a small felted animal of your choice OR a grouping of 3 handmade cards (event of your choice).

This will serve a dual purpose - get me craftin' and ..... get me craftin' .... No wait, that's only one - but a very sharp 'one' it is!!

What do you say? Does anyone out there still read this far into my blog????

Do I Have "Push Over" Tatooed on My Forehead?

2010-10-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

What is it with me this week???!!!

I seem to have all the people looking for conflict attracted to me in a not so pleasant fashion.

Saturday (BEFORE the dinner in the previous post) I made the mistake of popping into my work (on my day off), and had a 'situation' with a Pastor (not one of ours), resulting in words exchanged. And me leaving flustered - but unresolved.

Then my previous post occurred that evening.

Then on Tuesday a co-worker decided that the brand new filing cabinets I've just brought where an ideal sitting spot for his butt during a meeting where the rest of us have to stand. When I asked him to get off of them - he laughed - and continued his monologue.

Then today another confrontation with a person here at the office. Not a co-worker - thankfully, but the same person that I had issues with on Saturday morning, but over a completely different item. I actually said words that should have stayed in my head, but I meant none-the-less.

What?? Do I look like a push-over? I only be 5'2", and almost as round as I am tall, but that doesn't mean I'm going to put with your s%&t!!

I like to think that I'm a pretty easy going a pleasant person. I'm willing to be corrected. But to blatantly think you can just muscle in a bowl me over - you've got another thing coming! You're nice to me - I'll be nice to you. You're sharp with me and I don't deserve it, then watch out! I have fangs and I'm willing to use them!

Deep breath in ...... deep breath out ..... deep breath in ..... deep breath out.

All I'm askin' is ... don't cross me!

When is Action Needed?

2010-10-04T16:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever felt like you should speak into a situation, but also think ‘someone else’ should be taking care of it?

I know in Canada we have a certain amount of con-confrontation, verging on complacency in our society. We’re known to be peacekeepers outside of our country, but what about right in our local restaurant?

On Saturday we made the final loan payment on our car! Yippy!! So we decided to eat out to celebrate. We choose a place that is a pub style family eatery. Children are not uncommon, but not the majority. Hubby and I are childless, but tolerant of kids for the most part.

However ….. Saturday night tested all our limits of tolerance and ability to sit back and watch poor parenting. And I might add – this seemed to be the consensus to the other tables surrounding us.

When we arrived, there was a table of 3 women and 4 children just at the tail end of their meal. The restaurants crayons, colouring sheets, and balloons aplenty on display as being well used by the four children (all under the age of 10). As the ladies continued to chat, the children began to get restless, and louder. And louder, and more restless, and busier, and louder, and more active, and more busier, and farther from the table …… and you get the picture.

The ladies ….. were oblivious, and never once in the 90 minutes after finishing the meal did a single word of correction come from a single woman’s mouth.

Now – I understand the need for a little parental downtime, but if your child (or children) is getting up and standing on balustrades, and beating the other children over the head with their balloon – don’t you think that might warrant a word of warning? When the children are running all over the restaurant, and literally tripping up the wait staff and other patrons – would that not be a super time to step up and use some supposed to parenting skills …. ?

To my surprise and dismay the women didn’t bat an eye. Not one iota of conscientiousness crossed their features.

Even as a child stood on a chair – at their table – and proceeded to feed 4 balloons and their string into and around the revolving fan above the table – to which it came to a complete stop – nary an eyelash flickered recognition of the need to stop a child – any child.

Nor, might I add – did the manager come over and advice the parent of the need to rein in any one of the little miscreants.

I was baffled. Several times I felt like I should/could step in, but felt it wasn’t my place. These children had managed to derail the enjoyment of my own meal – does that give me permission to step into a situation.

What do you think? What would you do?

My inner voice was really chanting to get up and slap the women senseless, but my outer practical self said – jail term is not an option.

And did I mention that I asked the waitress if she got tipped well. Was I surprised when she said "no". . . . No I wasn't, not at all.

Pondering

2010-09-23T13:15:00.000-07:00

Why does it feel like "Common Sense" is no longer that common?

Thanks to a Purple Cow ...

2010-09-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

My thanks to Purple Cow who shared this joke in the comments from my previous entry. Please enjoy.

The Divorced Barbie Doll

One day a father gets out of work and on his way home he suddenly remembers that it's his daughter's birthday. He pulls over to a Toy Shop and asks the sales person, 'How much for one of those Barbie's in the display window?' The salesperson answers, 'Which one do you mean, Sir? We have: Work Out Barbie for $19.95, Shopping Barbie for $19.95, Beach Barbie for $19.95, Disco Barbie for $19.95, Ballerina Barbie for $19.95, Astronaut Barbie for $19.95, Skater Barbie for $19.95, and Divorced Barbie for $265.95'.

The amazed father asks: 'It's what?! Why is the Divorced Barbie $265.95 and the others only $19.95?'

The annoyed salesperson rolls her eyes, sighs, and answers: 'Sir..., Divorced Barbie comes with: Ken's Car, Ken's House, Ken's Boat, Ken's Furniture, Ken's Computer, one of Ken's Friends, and a key chain made with Ken's balls.

I laughed until I almost cried.

A Little Time Travel Fun

2010-09-14T13:58:00.000-07:00

I'm sharing a link today that should be a little fun. You Tube Time Machine - I chose the year I was born and got a wonderful vintage commercial about "Barbie" and her fashion selection.

I remember my first Barbie Doll. That was back when G.I.Joe was the same size and they dated - unless you could afford to have a Ken doll too.

Anyway - have some fun, and tell me about your finds.

Melt My Heart - Again

2010-09-10T15:28:00.000-07:00

I love kids!

I particularly love kids when the love me back, but I'm still surprised when that happens. (That's just the way I am)

I'm sure I've mentioned this before, but I have a particular soft spot for all things 'Spongebob Squarepants', and this is often a reason kids like me. How can you not like an adult who watches a childish kid show?

Over the years I've received a variety of little gifts left for me at the church (work), from both adults and children alike, of some kind of Spongebob paraphernalia. And I try to keep them on display as long as possible without looking completely unprofessional (although, I'm not particularly concerned about it.)

Yesterday I had a call from a congregate about some other business. As our conversation was winding down she says "Oh ya ..... Zack and I were in the toy store on the weekend."

Zack is her 9 year old son, and one of my fav' kids.

She continues "Zack saw a 'Spongebob Lego set' and said "LJ WOULD LOVE THAT!! Can we buy it for her?"

Of course her answer was no, as it came with a $50 price tag. I completely understand of course, but his unselfish, childlike response was absolutely priceless to me.

It made my day, and I can't wait to see Zack on the weekend.

How was your week?

I got to be a kid twice this week

2010-09-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

If you've ever lived on an island you know that island living is like no other. No other philosophy. No other lifestyle. No other mindset.

OK, maybe that's a few too many 'no other's', but you get my drift. Living on an island is different.

I've lived on the big island of the west coast of Canada for 25 years, but even a weekend trip to one of the smaller gulf island reminds me that small island life is different again. More organic, more 'small town', and if it were possible - - slower. I headed off to Pender Island to visit a girlfriend who lives there, and I was just in time for their "Fall Fair".

Not only did I chose the right weekend, but I also managed to end up taking part in their parade. From the Fire hall to the Fair grounds - I was a stilter's spotter. A rag-tag group of around 8 kids ranging in age from 10 - 15 display their stilting skills in costume at local events on the island throughout the year. They're a very talented group of kids, and don't really need spotters, but it was safety first all the way.

Now before you get caught up in the ewww.... ahhhh .... she was in a parade ..... please keep in mind that the distance between the fire hall and the fair grounds is equivalent to about one city block. But I took my duties very seriously, some of these kids were an additional 4 to 5 feet taller. I wonder if the air is thinner up there. (no unsavory incidents requiring my spotters hand)

It was all great fun, culminating at the fair grounds and all that a fall fair has to offer. I felt like a kid again. I hadn't been "in" a parade since I was a teenager, and I hadn't been to a Fair in .... 15-20 years.

My second spree back into childhood happened last night. We didn't feel like cooking, and I had an urge to have something I haven't had since long before I turned 10. For dinner (I use the term lightly) I took a fresh bun, slathered it with margarine and put a heap of salt & vinegar potato chips in it.

This was a real treat when I was a kid. I always liked the combination of textures and flavours. It didn't have to be salt & vinegar, but that's what we had on hand.

Nom, nom, nom ...... good.

Gave me a giggle (and a screen saver)

2010-08-25T14:50:00.001-07:00

Proving once again that church folks can have a sense of humour .....

Church life in mid August gets a little crazy as much preparation ensues for the new ministry year. My life here behind my computer is no different. Each year I think I'm prepared, and each year I get a little more surprised by the over-night-ness of it.

So - unapologetic-ally - I'm say I've busy, but I'm still alive and kicking. You can't get rid of me that easily.

I Never Had A Trampoline

2010-08-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

During our coffee break time this afternoon at work, I casually glanced out the window to a group of kids playing across the street. At first view I thought they were on a pogo stick, but my sight was slightly impaired by a fence. Then as I realized they were garnering far to much air to be on a pogo stick, and there was no accompanying noise of "boing-boing-boing-boing" I discovered they were on a trampoline. What a lot of fun.

Thinking of the pogo stick brought back great memories for me. After I outgrew my tri-cycle (combined with my dads car crushing it to smithereens because of a poor parking choice on my part) my parents bought me a brand new red pogo stick for my 5th or 6th birthday.

Suddenly I was the coolest kid on the block. Everyone wanted to try it. We would have contests to see who could get the most hops in before falling off. I never mastered traveling with it, but I had a lot of fun bouncing around on our driveway.

Eventually I wanted to move on to a more speedy and directional form of transportion and I graduated to a push scooter and then a bicycle.

As you graduated through the modes of travel as a kid, is there a "favourite" that sticks (no pun intended) in your mind? Lets hear about it.

I Have A Secret To Tell you

2010-08-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

I have a girl-crush.

I have a girl-crush on Mia Micheals, choreographer and judge on "So You Think You Can Dance.

Not in a sexy or romantic way. I just love her style and presence. And she's the kind of woman I'd love to sit down and talk to over a great cup of coffee. I wish I had half her panache. I think she's very cool.

What about you? Do you have a secret, or not so secret crushes on people in a non-romantic way?

Fun At Work

2010-08-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

I have a new desk-mate - as in a small spider. He's doing laps across the top of my monitor - and he's been doing so for over an hour now.

I don't want to kill him. He's not doing anything wrong. Just occasionally he's making me question my eye sight - you know .... when you get those little flicks of dust that cross your vision .... except in my case it's a little tan coloured spider.

I may have to name him.

And So It Begins Again ....

2010-08-03T14:33:00.001-07:00

There is something about finishing the last bit of "holiday" time you have in the summer that makes me feel like the summer is over. I gotta get over that!

I am, however, back at the desk being the boss of everything... No actually, I will dispute that, but as I did a walk about this morning I see how many things have fallen through the cracks in my absence. But then again, maybe its just my work OCD that kicked back in. None-the-less I'm putting things to rights. :-)

This last two week stint was wonderful. We really didn't get up to much, and in fact stayed home for the last 10 days of it. I made a point of doing at least one little errand in a day (an errand of my choosing and desire). This got me up and out of my PJ's.

My hubby on the other hand .... I truly believe he'd prefer to be a bat. His living space consisted of the livingroom with all the curtains closed, and not a single light on except the glow of the TV.

This is NOT my idea of how to spend my summer vacation, but he was happy, so I can't complain.

In particular - I can't complain when we ended up purchasing a Play Station 3. For the "blue ray" capability of course ....

Did I mention that we already own a Wii and a GameCube? No? Well - we do - AND, did I mention we have no children? No? Ya, there's nothing like being double income, no kids, and no mortgage. I don't like hubby's choice of games, but we're having a blast playing "Lego: Indiana Jones 2", and "Little Big Planet".

Now .... I do have to come back to work just to pay for it, but I can't wait for a rainy day that "makes" me stay inside .... teehee!

I Haven't Forgotten You

2010-07-26T20:33:00.001-07:00

I'm back on holidays - 2nd week actually, and I've been trying to stay away from my computer except to watch the occasional video. I sit at a computer every week day, and sometime a girl needs a break. I'm sure you understand.

Last week the hubby and I were up at a friends trailer for 5 days, then back home - and here's where I am now. It's been a relaxing time even if I'm not reading nearly as many books as I had planned. LOL! (1 book a day was my goal - that got blown on the first book which took me 3 days.)

I will get back into the swing of things next week. But to alleviate any fears I have been doing some other creative things - like rubber stamping some cards. A craft that I've had on the bench for several months, just didnt' have enough creative juices flowing to do anything.

Later Gators and enjoy the summer!

You Already Know I'm Warped

2010-07-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

Lego Fail

I laughed out loud. I didn't see it coming.

Or ... if that's not your style, try this little gem. My results caused me to laugh harder than the Lego Fail did. Please try it and tell me who you write like.

I write like
Stephenie Meyer

I Write Like by Mémoires, Mac journal software. Analyze your writing!

One Of Those Days

2010-07-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those days?

Today is a day were everything about me needs a lift.

My attitude
My chin
My height
My boobs

But mostly my attitude, followed very closely by my boobs.

Your Weekend Challenge

2010-07-09T11:15:00.001-07:00

Before I get to my challenge for you ....

We're in the middle of a heat wave - and I'm NOT complaining!! I love the heat of summer .... but ..... at 11pm last night the inside of my house was a whopping 29 degrees Celsius (or 85F - for my American friends). That's INSIDE my house people!!! And with no air conditioning, and apparently - no breeze last night either!!!

So both my husband and I started out sleeping portion of the night outside on the back deck (which I love doing anyway). I'm not sure when he crawled back into the house, but he had already gone when I crawled in at 2:30am because I was cold. I was so tired, I didn't care what the temperature was inside. Besides - I kept having dreams of raccoons crawling into my sleeping bag with me. I don't trust those raccoons - they look innocent enough - but they are one creature where looks ARE deceiving!

I'm sure it will be cooler tonight, but it is Friday so I can sleep in late tomorrow no matter what.

Now - - on to my challenge for you (picture a big pointy finger wagging itself at you). I want to hear about, or see "What's On Your Fridge?". Are you a neat freak who wants a naked fridge? Is your fridge filled with your childrens artwork? Pictures of every animal you ever had? What's on your fridge?

And in the interest of full disclosure ....

This is my fridge! I love putting pictures on my fridge - as you can well see. Family friends, family, bits of (other) childrens artwork, magnets brought back from other peoples trips, ..... a plethora of stuff and momentos. Once in a while I'll go through and tidy them up a bit, take some down, rearrange .... but mostly this fridge door brings a smile to my face when I most need it. It represent many people that hold near and dear to my heart.

What's on YOUR fridge? Post something of your own, or or just tell me about it. Either way - inquiring minds want to know.

Two Most Beautiful Sights

2010-07-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

Both Sweetness & Light

Back on my familiar Island Home

2010-07-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

But with bittersweet feelings I am home. It was tremendously hard leaving the family and Jasper yesterday. There are very few places on this earth that I feel I can completely relax and be myself with - my family in Jasper is one such place.

Saying good-bye to my nieces (two generations of now) was painful for me. I don't know what I did right, but they really like me and my company. My brother even told me (during this visit) that his girls (all grown women now) don't think of me as an Aunt, but as a big sister. I take this as a huge compliment, but I still don't know what I did right. Thank you Lord, none-the-less.

Anyway - today is July 1st and Canada's 143rd birthday. I'm not sure what we'll get up to, but we'll enjoy the holiday either way.

Why Do Baby's Always Smell So Good?

2010-06-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

Last day to hug bebe. Back on the road homeward bound tomorrow. Bitter sweet really. I haven't lived here in 25 years, but it still feels like coming home.

AND I only saw one coyote and a handfull of mountain goats.

Mid-point In Holidays

2010-06-28T10:37:00.000-07:00

I'm at the point in my stay where I want to be split down the middle. Half of me stays visitng and half of me begins the trek home to reality, husband, and comfy bed. I have until Wednesday morning to decide which half wins. Otherwise the relaxed side wins and stays until Friday morning.

The problem with chillaxin' is that one can get far to used to it.

Jasper House (Circa 1850`s)

2010-06-27T16:31:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a hike that took us to a historical spot tourists don't visit. It was a wonderful day, and if I can figure out how to get my pictures out of my phone and into my camera ..... you'll see just how wonderful it was.

On a flip side - I'm missing my soft comfy bed. Short of sleeping on the bathroom floor, my ancient futon guest bed leaves me a lot to be desired.

Family

2010-06-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like being with people who get your humour.

Time Warping A Generation

2010-06-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

Time slips through your fingers when you're not looking.

I did a solo road trip across the province yesterday. I hoped a ferry at 8am, and pulled into the Rockies by 6pm. Listened to an audio book, but it was only 3 hours, so it didn't really fill in the time. Put in a second audio book and voila! I'm here.

I'm in Jasper, Alberta. High in the Canadian Rockies and home away from home for me. Last night I met my 6 week old "great" niece Lucy, and as I assumed she would be - she's beautiful!! I'm looking forward to getting to know her better over the next couple of days.

I left the husband, cats, and house behind - I only hope they can manager without me.

Home Work

2010-06-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

I'm on holidays, but it feels more like sick days. However, I did manage to mop the floors, get things ready for good-will. Sweating it all out whether I want to or not.

Thursday is Jasper or bust!

14 Days of Snot and ....

2010-06-21T10:26:00.000-07:00

Day 14 of a stupid spring cold / cough / laryngitis. Although the laryngitis only kicked in (or out as it were) a week ago. And you wonder why I've been so silent.

One Is All It Takes

2010-06-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Note to Self:
It is better to write one sentence once a day, than nothing for almost a month.

It Feels Like A Monday

2010-05-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

We just had a long weekend and today feels like Monday, not Tuesday. So I'm all outta whack.

So to start your week with me I thought I'd share a sweet little summer video.

P.S. The long weekend also brought a fixed truck. I have wheels again.

Thank You Lord For The Day I Discovered Reading

2010-05-18T13:23:00.000-07:00

One of the highlight events of the year for me here in Victoria is the annual TC Book sale. Our local newspaper sponsors a HUGE second hand book sale with proceeds going to “Raise A Reader” a local literacy organization. A few weeks before the event weekend a call goes out to anyone wanting to donate books to this cause - hundreds of thousands of books are dropped off.

This year’s venue was smaller than most years, so more strict guidelines had to be put into place on what can and can’t be donated. All this to say that a mere 300,000+ were made available, where as in previous years the counts have been upwards of 400,000 – 500,000 missives.

At $1 for a pocket book, $2 for larger soft covers, & $3 for hardcover – a shopper and a reader’s heart could be nothing but delirious!!

The doors were opened at 9am, and I read in the paper that some people got in line at 3am. Why? I don’t know. I texted a friend at 8am who had been in line since 7am, and she was already substantially far down the lineup. As a young mom of three, she was treating this as an adventure away from the kids and on her own. I treasure my sleep far more.

I, and a couple of fellow bookworms decided that early afternoon was just fine by us. And to that note I would like to add that there was no wait at the door upon arriving at 1pm. However, I did hear a security person say that by that point (1pm) there had been almost 2,200 people come through.

After 30 minutes one girlfriend complained that her bag was so full that she was done. My other girlfriend and myself were nowhere near completing our rounds and hung on for another 90 minutes.

Two large shopping bags full and only $35 spent – I was content with my finds and happy to call it a day. I debated about going back the next day, but decided I needed to make a dent on what I had, and then venture back to the Library or Amazon when the time came.

Funny though – I didn’t see one copy of ANY of the Twilight Saga books ……

I should also add that over $140,000 was raised. Well-done my fellow Victorian’s.

May I present ....

2010-05-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

Lucy May Currie - my first "great" niece.

All I had to do was visit Facebook. The wonders of modern technology.

She is my new star, but don't forget to see the previous post. New Hummingbird pictures.

Almost Empty Nest

2010-05-17T09:02:00.001-07:00

I am constantly amazed at the miracles that surround me. I didn't peek in on our little Hummingbird family all weekend. I knew that things would be very different when I came in this morning, and I was right. I don't know where the sibling is, and I like to think that Mom has taken him/her out for a test drive, but here we have one of our wee ones patiently learning the art of balancing on a branch. In another picture I took, you could just begin to make out the slight blush of emerald green starting to appear on its wing.

I will truly miss these folks when they grown on to take care of themselves. It will probably be any day now that they won't be returning.

Oh, if only our human teenage years could go so quickly.

Good Morning Sunshine

2010-05-14T09:45:00.000-07:00

To think, these little darlin's only hatched about 10 days ago.

I'm Over The Moon!!!

2010-05-12T12:53:00.001-07:00

It's Official! As of 11:45am today I became a Great Aunt. Actually - I'm an outstanding, awesome, fantastic Aunt, but now we can add the extra generation!

Lucy May weighed in a 6lbs.12oz.

My niece is doing great!

I won't get to meet Lucy for another 5 weeks, but that's geography for ya.

Oh, I can hardly stand it!!!

Hummingbird Watch 2010

2010-05-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

By my estimation the babies are 1 week old now. It is so amazing to watch them grow. The appear to be a little smaller than my thumb now, and they are having a tougher time both fitting into the nest together. They're very frigidity.

The above picture I caught this morning. You can just see there two little heads poking up.

This picture I took last night just as I was leaving from work. This is proud Pappa feeding his wee ones. Doesn't he look gorgeous! I realize this isn't a great picture, but its been very breezy lately and its hard to get a shot in before the branches move.

They just look like they're looking for trouble. Don't you think?

I suppose I could make this wordless Wednesday, and to be sure - watching these birds has made me speechless.

A Monday Rant

2010-05-10T15:29:00.000-07:00

I’m giving you fair warning – I’m going to rant. And not one of you is going to give even a whisper of a hint to my husband about it. Do you hear me?

Through no fault of my own, I ended up taking ‘ownership’ of my husband’s old vehicle. It’s a 1988 Ford Bronco II and has over 370,000 Kms (230, 000 miles -/+). Needless to say – it’s not in the prime of its life, but it’s been a good vehicle. I need/want a vehicle to run my errands when I want/need too, and not be dependent on when the hubster is not in need of the car. I feel a bit stranded when I can’t get around.

I’ve tried to convince hubby that it’s time to put it to rest. It’s old, its untrustworthy, and I can’t even give it away. I know because I tried, and it still found its way back to my ownership.

About 6 weeks ago I tried to open up the conversation about “letting go”, but was met with a “its still a good vehicle, you just can’t park it on an incline”.

This statement came out of a afternoon of adventure that I had with it. I’d gone to a local mall for a little bit of weekend shopping. I parked the truck is a relatively normal area, albeit a slight slope.

I attempted to put the emergency break on, but it wouldn’t go down. So, double-checking the truck was in gear, I set out to conquer my errands, thinking this would be enough.

I had about 3 or 4 different stops to make and had been in the mall for about an hour. I tend to ignore pages that occur because they never pertain to me. Why would they?

Rounding out the end of my hour long stroll I’m just heading back out to the parking lot and the sound of a terse announcement that is being made finally catches my ear.

THEY WERE PAGING FOR "THE OWNER OF A BLUE FORD BRONCO TO RETURN TO THEIR VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY!!!"

There couldn’t possibly be two vehicles like mine it the parking lot – this had to be for me, and I quickened my steps.

Sure enough, there are two security folks waiting impatiently by my truck with large blocks jammed behind the wheels to stop it from rolling back (any further). The truck had managed to roll directly into oncoming traffic, but had managed not to do damage to anything or anyone.

I don’t know how they managed to get it back out of the line of fire, and I didn’t have the courage to tell them that they could have just got into my unlocked vehicle and turned the ignition without the key. (A little known secret, but I keep hoping someone will steal it.)

I shamefaced drove home determined to come to a final decision about getting rid of the rolling behemoth.

Believe it or not folks, I haven’t even come to the reason for wanting to rant today. The preamble was only to give you grounding for my concerns and frustrations.

Bring the previous story forward about two weeks. My hubby ran an errand with the truck on a sunny Saturday and informs me when he got back home that the truck will have a completely flat tire by the next morning. The valve-something-or-other was shot and needed replacing.

True to his word – the next morning I looked out the living room window to see reality. Reflecting back on the previous days conversation I realized that he had never made mention of changing the tire and getting it repaired. AND he was gone for the day now.

The week was busy and come the weekend I asked him if he’d ‘help’ me change the tire so that I could get the valve fixed. He gave me a skeptical look and dismissed my thoughts.

Fast-forward three weeks to yesterday. The truck is still in driveway with a flat tire. I come home from (taking our car) getting groceries and asked again – “Honey, will you please help me change the tire on the truck?” Well, short of kicking the ground like all petulant children do, he grumbled about having things to do.

I said, “No problem, I’ll just call one of our many male friends and ask them if they’d help me.”

He didn’t like that answer. Mostly because he knows I know people . . .

He stomps out of the house, walks around the truck, comes back into the house and informs me “the spare is flat too”, and goes back to his office.

So this is what I’m seriously thinking of doing – I’m going to post it for sale on our local www. buy my piece of junk .com and explain that although it is in working condition – you’ll need to change the tire first because my husband can’t be bothered.

What do you think? Is that too mean?

Brings Joy To My Heart

2010-05-07T11:31:00.000-07:00

The baby Hummingbirds have hatched. I began to see them on Wednesday, but I couldn't get a picture until today. I can't believe how much they've grown in only a few short days.

&

Please keep in mind these pictures are taken through a window which made them a little whitish. But, oh, aren't they beautiful!!

God is so good.

Ta Dahhhhhh!

2010-05-07T10:28:00.001-07:00

Finally - they've arrived.

And

What do you think of my choices??? Tell me the truth. I can take it.

Again With the Strange Dreams

2010-05-05T09:56:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure whether to start with the end and work backwards, or from the beginning and think linear ...

So .... I dreamed that my in-laws were visiting overnight for a couple of nights, and as they are prone to, they get bored with just hanging out when Hubby and I are off at work. So the first afternoon I return home post my work day I come into my living room to find that they (the in-laws) have taken upon themselves to prune my lovely, large fig tree. Which normally wouldn't be all that much of a problem as most growing things need a little pruning once in a while. But in this instance they had cut out all the lush new growth that had been coming on, and what was left was just the older leggy leaves and limbs.

I wasn't happy, but didn't say anything.

The following day that I came home after work (still in the same dream) the out-laws had gone off looking for something to do again and had stripped my lovely, now less than lush fig tree of EVERY LAST LEAF!! It was completely bare. It looked like a forlorn old oak tree in the middle of winter.

I was devastated and just about to ban the raisins from every visiting us again when I woke up. Lucky for them.

Now the reason I wasn't sure where to begin in the story was that, if you've read any of my older entries, you may have come across an entry I wrote about my Mom-In-Law staying with us for a week around about a year ago. Naturally, she got bored with staying at the house all alone all day. After a couple of days she decided to 'help' around the house. And for whatever reason, known only to her, she decided to take my clothes hamper and re-fold all my clean clothes. I might add that this meant she needed to go into our bedroom to find said hamper and clothes.

This did NOT sit well with me, but I took it in grace and thanked her.

A couple of days later, after I had put away all the clean clothes, I had refilled the hamper with my next load of dirty clothes, but had left it on our bed to remind me to do that laundry that evening.

When I came home from work at lunch I find that she'd once again decided to "help" around the house and had neatly folded all my dirty laundry.

That was the straw that broke the camels back, so-to-speak. I was furious, but with guarded tongue I expressed my displeasure and told her that she need not fold my dirty laundry - EVER AGAIN!

It really rankled me that she would go into our bedroom, let alone the fact that she folded any of my clothes - dirty or clean.

So - - - when I had the above mentioned dream the other night, my memory went back a year in time to the laundry folding event.

I'm sure there is a secret message in it all - the dream I mean, and I'll have to ponder it.

On a side note: the In-laws have flown off to England for a month to visit friends. They left yesterday, and I can't help if the two events - dream and flight - are not somehow related. What do you think?

This, That, and the Other Thing

2010-05-04T16:19:00.000-07:00

Another weeks updates:

*My new glasses still aren’t in. What’s the deal with that? I did inquire on Saturday, and the clerk looked it up on their computer. I guess this is where I need to be thankful for ‘quality control’ because there was a message that one pair of glasses had 3 notices of “Remake” beside it. Does that bode ill or well? Better than fast food, I’d like to think.

*Hubby and me graduated again further into adulthood on Sunday. We each got new cell phones. And not just your average cell phones, but Smart Phones. Does this make us smart? More mature? Too soon to tell, but I am having fun already!!

*I wasn’t feeling so great on Friday and went home early from work. When I woke up in the morning I couldn’t stop the room from twirling. It came and went, and came and went, until I finally I said “ENOUGH!” and went home. I curled up on the couch and fell asleep for three hours until the husband came home and turned the TV on. The rest of the weekend went better, but I still don’t feel 100%.

*It has been extremely windy around here. When there is extreme barometer change I really feel it in my head. This is probably partially explainable for Friday’s events.

*I got to hang out with a girlfriend on Saturday afternoon/evening. We started out looking for trouble and ended up in Chinatown. I so rarely go to our downtown core that it was quiet a treat. We also took a walk out on the causeway. A breaker that protects the inner harbour from the oceans wind and water. It was very windy, and we really shouldn't have dared it, but it was fun and a little brave. She's a wee bit of a thing, so I acted more as an anchor than anything. Thankfully - neither one of us ended up falling off. That really wouldn't have been pretty.

*I have limited staff around me this week. Four folks are away at a variety of conferences in other part of the country. Kinda quiet around here, but I like it. Last week was very hectic because of a reno job on the church’s café area. So I’m thankful for a less stressful week.

*I got my hairs trimmed and tidied up on Saturday. Feels much nicer. Now if only I could get it to grow faster ……

There it is – a sum up of another week. Not particularly exciting reading, but I felt the need to share none-the-less.

One of the Reasons I Love Spring

2010-04-28T15:44:00.001-07:00

One of the many things I love about living in this climate is the variety of birds all year around. A true pleasure for me in recent years has been to watch a particular pair of hummingbirds (I'm not sure which particular kind) that have come back to the tree outside our office for at least three years now.

This is not a great picture, but look almost in the dead centre.

Now a little closer in.

She is so tiny in there. The nest is not bigger than a golf ball. Last year I remember taking a boo at them and finding both Ma & Pa all scrunched in. I don't know how they do it.

As time goes on I'll keep watch and see if I can't get a picture of them once the babies hatch.

Do you have a favourite bird in your neighbourhood?

I Like to Laugh

2010-04-27T11:29:00.000-07:00

And this tickled my funny bone to no end.

Where We're At

2010-04-26T14:20:00.001-07:00

Not to bore you, but I took a friend shopping on Friday and we picked out (not easily) two pairs of new frames for me. (Lin: I will post a picture of them once I have them in my hot little hands). Pe@rle Vision has a two for one sale. Can you trust a ‘two for one sale’ when its your vision your dealing with? Time will tell.

In other news …. there really isn’t anything to report, hence my lack of updating.

I’m continuing on my voracious reading stint and read two books over the weekend - nothing but frivolous (romantic) froth, so I will not even endeavor to give a worthy book review. You read one – you’ve read them all. I find I’m still trying to debrief my brain from a particular vampire/werewolf story I got whirl-wind into (book number three comes out in movie version on June 30th). So finding other reading material has been hard and yet easy to find. Hard because I want that same tension level without giving up days of my life to accomplish the task. Easy because I’ll take an old fashioned romance novel anytime and skim for the good parts. Although I have been recommended the Sookie Stackhouse series, but it waits beside my bedside as I wade through lighthearted, witty, historical silliness. I don’t think I’m quiet ready to begin on a new Vampire series that will discombobulate my vampire assumptions further.

I have since been revisiting my local library. A girlfriend showed me the virtues of online book reservation for my local branch. Easy as 1 – 2 – 3. But I really must learn not to reserve the LARGE PRINT versions. My arms aren’t long enough or strong enough to hold the book far away. My husband could read it from across the room.

I also like the reservation system because I can look for authors I’ve been enjoying without standing in front of the large neon “ROMANCE SECTION” sign that hangs over the isle. I feel so judged when I read romance.

Eat My Words

2010-04-21T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today is "Administrative Professionals" Day, in fact - it is all week, but today gets singled out for some reason.

With 12 years under my belt around here, and only being remembered twice - I had my doubts that much attention would come my way. I even put up advertisements to send flowers. Do you think that was too brash?

I would have been a little glum if nothing had happened. I have to remind myself why I do what I do. And I do what I do because I love doing it. But isn't it nice to get acknowledged sometimes.

I was, and I am deeply honoured. I was given a potted plant, and a gift certificate for a fancy, expensive restaurant. I really would have been happy with just the plant, but I am extra blessed.

So to all you "Administrative Professionals" out there - I thumbs up, eye wink, kudos, applause, and give my love and respect to you for what you do. You may have been showered with flowers and recognition today, or you may have been looked over, but either way - there is a whole slew of us out there who know and understand. I drink to your health.

The Menu Is Too Large

2010-04-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend on the hunt for the perfect eye wear.

Did you know - there's no such thing as the 'perfect' eye wear???

Or at least that's what I've come to understand. I came very close to the 'perfect for me' frames, but they were attached to a $600+ price tag, and I couldn't justify such silliness.

I have since dialed down my fun-meter and am coming in to a close second. I took the hubby in to show him and to get his thoughts. That was my downfall. This is one of those times you should take a straight shooting girlfriend over a husband any day.

A straight shooting girlfriend will tell you if your choice is crap. A husband who would rather be any where else except looking at glasses with you, will tell you exactly what he thinks you want to hear. And what he thinks you want to hear is generally anything that will get him out of the store sooner.

I will be revisiting one particular store again before the weeks is out - AND without my husband (whom I truly love and cherish, but hate shopping with).

Will any of you be in my neighbourhood next weekend to grant me your sage advice?

Pains of Getting Older

2010-04-15T14:31:00.000-07:00

I had my once-every-two-years eye exam yesterday. I've been wearing glasses since I was thirty. It was bound to happen as both my parents did as well.

My last prescription change up two years ago moved me into the world of "Progessive Lenses", which are the evolution of bi-focal/tri-focal lenses. Which is also the evolution of making me feel old.

I'm naturally near-sighted, so I don't even tend to wear my glasses when I'm reading a book. But when I need to see the computer screen or beyond . . . forgetting my glasses is not a good thing. I'm pretty blind.

So yesterdays visit wasn't much of a surprise - I'll need to get new glasses. I used to enjoy looking for glasses, but not anymore. I can't find a 'style' that I like. And because a 'progressive' lens needs more space - the tiny little things not much bigger than a slit - don't work. And the new fashion with really wide temples (or arms) don't work well with progressives .... I'm coming up with nothin'.

What's a fashion conscious woman to do? (I use the term "fashion" & "conscious" lightly).

To top my exam off, the doc wanted to do eye drops that dilate your eyes.

A recommendation here - never, ever try to shop for eye glass frames when you can't stop the streams of light from bright overhead florescent from piercing your very skull. It truly is a useless endeavor. (and I might add that I was having a bad hair day. Not a very good combination.)

The other thing you're really shouldn't do once you've had those drops ..... is drive home on a sunny day.

Thankfully - I didn't have far to go to get home, my dark curtain clad home. My eyes were still dilated when I went to bed that night.

All is well with the world today, but now I'm on the hunt for the perfect glasses.

Weird Dream #198

2010-04-07T23:14:00.000-07:00

I dreamed I was at a potluck and my contribution to the meal was a salad.

I choose to make a fruit salad. It had only three ingredients: raspberries, pineapple, and my human hair. I cut it off special for just this occasion.

I mixed all the ingredients with my friends watching and then served up to several waiting plates.

I was just twirling up a forkful - like one does to spaghetti - of the lovely concoction, and lifting the fork to my mouth .....

And I woke up because my alarm went off. Thank you Lord for small miracles.

Finally Comin Up For Air

2010-04-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

Where did the last week go? Oh My-Lanta!!!

I had the best intentions of checking in with you all and wishing you the best Easter possible. But you know what the say ..... "the road to hell is paved with good intentions!"

As it turned out my parcel from Amazon.ca arrived on Thursday. (I adore Amazon.ca. They satiate my need to purchase). The complete hardcover set of the Twilight Saga - 4 volumes.

It was at that moment that the postal man handed off my parcel to me that I KNEW beyond a shadow of doubt what I'd be doing for my 4 day long weekend. I was not coming up for air until the final page of book 4 was finished.

I began book 3 on Thursday night (only 40 ages or so), continued on Friday morning only stopping to fuel up my mortal body with food briefly at lunch and then again at dinner (and of course I stopped long enough to attend our church Good Friday service), but by this time I had consumed all but a remaining 100 pages. I finished the last pages on Saturday morning, and held off beginning the final book for a couple of hours. I was, by this time, bordering on a headache from forgetting to refocus and occasionally breath. But my appetite was too strong and I dived back in.

I did manage to pace myself a little better and took two and a bit days to get through the last tome. Finally, at 11am on Monday morning I lay the series to rest. With a sigh of resignation I said goodbye to the Cullens and Forks, Washington.

My husband thinks I'm a total nut case, but ... he knew what he was getting into when he married me.

My next adventure awaits, but I don't think I'll be able to get Bella, Edward, or Jacob out of my mind for a while. And that's ok!

If Jesus Had a Facebook Page

2010-03-31T11:37:00.000-07:00

Call me a heratic, but this is funny stuff.
Jesus Is Your FB Friend

Wednesday's Meme

2010-03-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Lola at Lola's Diner - I copied her meme.

What type of day are you having? Started out weird, but what else is new.

Was there anyone who "made your day"? Too early to tell really. But I’m supposed to be the one to ‘make’ everyone else’s day. However, a lovely lady brought me a rose earlier this week to thank me for listening to her complaints.

Are you liking how you look today? So so. I did wear navy today, and it tends to be flattering, but I’m NEVER 100% happy with the way I look.

Do you have anyone crushing on you? I’d like to think so, but husbands can be so fickle.

Have you ever eaten a bug? Not on purpose.

Are you vegetarian? Vegetables? What are vegetables?

When was the last time you kissed someone? This morning as I kissed the hubby good-bye.

Have you ever had something stuck between your teeth, but no one decided to tell you?
Don’t know. No one told me.

Are you a mother or a father? Neither. Does than make me trans-parental?

When was your last paycheck? Two weeks and two days. Today is payday, but I don’t have it yet.

How many pets do you have? Two cats. Digit and Pirate (and Pirate has a pet stuffed cat – does that count? Muffin is part of our household as well, but doesn’t eat or use up the litter)

What kind of toothpaste do you use? Sensadyne for sensitive teeth – yuck.

Are you closer to being rich or poor? Define rich? Define poor?

Do you sleep with a stuffed animal? No. Unless my hubby counts after a full meal.

What was the last gift someone gave you? A calligraphy set – it was my birthday two weeks ago.

Do you appreciate that person? Yes, very much. New friends to me, and very thoughtful.

Did you talk to anyone you didn't like today? Not yet, but the day is young.

Do you like picnics? Yes! Picnics are fun.

What book are you currently reading? “Needles and Pearls” by Gil McNeil.

What song did you last listen to? No idea. I don’t tend to ‘listen’ to music much.

What movie is in your DVD player? It's empty. But the last movie I watched was on the weekend and it was “My Life In Ruins” with the actress from “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”.

How many windows are open in your computer? Three – Word to write this, Internet for email, and ICal for the church calendar.

Are you a very stressed out person? I can be, it all depends if I talk to someone I don’t like (teehee). Only kidding. I’m generally pretty relaxed.

Sometimes I'm Slow On The Uptake

2010-03-28T11:10:00.001-07:00

This mornings (while playing hookie from church) I was visiting other blogs via "Next Blog" (what an awesome invention), and a thought crossed my mind.

Is blogging a more modern form of old-fashioned "pen pals"?

I recognize that there are a number of bloggers who do not reply to comments, and for the most part - I tend to stay away from those (not sure why). But there is a certain repartee that emerges amongst those who share their thoughts back and forth. Relationship struck, thoughts exchanged, life stories told. Doesn't that smack of good old-fashioned correspondence - only with more instant gratification?

I had a pen-pal when I was in high school (well before the advent of computers, and in fact electric typewriters confounded many). I don't remember her name, and I don't remember how out correspondence began, but I do remember she lived in Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories. And we would wait months to exchange lives. Unfortunately, writing wasn't a skill for me, and our relationship lagged and fell away.

So .... what do you think? Is it just me, or do you feel like you have "pen-pals" within this journal-ling world? Only with quicker results.

I Am Bereft

2010-03-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

Main Entry: be·reft
Function: adjective

1 a : deprived or robbed of the possession or use of something : lacking something needed, wanted, or expected

I just finished Book 2 (New Moon) of the Twilight Saga, and I don't have Book 3 (Eclipse) in my possession. I may actually have to clean my house this weekend.

I Don't Do BandWagon's

2010-03-25T14:30:00.001-07:00

What is it with “Band Wagon”, and why does everyone seem to jump on one at some time or another?

I generally fight literary bandwagons when the come along. You know …. When “everyone” is tell you to read such-and-such a book. Nothing sends me further away from reading a book then when someone tells me I’ve gotta read this one, or that one. As if my life would not be complete if I didn’t follow suit.

I never did “The Da Vinci Code” bandwagon. I didn’t get on “The Shack” wagon. And there always seems to be a “Christian book of the month” I must read. I admit that I did read (ravenously so) the Harry Potter books, but … to be fair I read the first one well before it became the craze. I was tickled pink to be ahead of the game on that one.

More recently though I succumb to a bandwagon I had been adamantly opposed to – both reading the book, or see the movie. As I mentioned in an entry last week – when dreaming about Vampires - I admitted to reading “Twilight” at the time. Hence, my dream.

I didn’t want to read the book. I didn’t want to see the movie. It had no appeal to me what so ever, but a co-worker (a man) talked me into it and in turn leant me his copy. Now … 10 days later I confess that I have read book 1 through twice, watched the movie between the two book sittings, and am now half way through book 2 – New Moon.

I must also further confess that I have ordered the complete set in hardcover from Amazon.ca just this morning.

I’d like to justify my behaviour by thinking that the bandwagon passed me by many months/years ago, and I am now just picking up the fall out. No fault of my own. But I gotta tell ya folks – I’ve loved every blinking word that I read! I can’t get enough. I am sickly addicted. I believe I’m endangering my job because I take sneak reads when its slow and there’s no one around to catch me (yes, I know that God is always watching).

But this albeit belated “bandwagon” has been a joy ride – almost better than a screaming roller coaster. Hand up in the air and screaming with excitement over the next hill.

Blah, Blah, Blah

2010-03-24T14:32:00.001-07:00

I'm in a whiner mood - even I don't want to hear about it.

Serves Me Right!

2010-03-18T11:46:00.001-07:00

Thank you to all that sent greetings for my birthday. My blog-smithing cyber heart is overwhelmed with the love! And to quote Sally Fields “You like me, you really like me!”

I did in fact have a lovely birthday, lovelier than I’ve had in years. I felt cared for and loved. Which is always a good thing.

Since Tuesday my Technicolor dreaming life has stepped it up a notch. May there’s too much sugar in my birthday diet.

Two nights ago I dreamt that I was returning from some event and on the spur of the moment I decided that I’d hope the ferry and do a surprise visit on a girlfriend who lives on one of the smaller islands.

Whatever event I’d just been too caused me to have luggage, so I thought I would just pop home – switch out clothes and be gone. But once I got to my house, which just happened to be in the dead center the ferry terminal parking lot, and I could see on the giant clock over the terminal depot that my ferry was leaving in 15 minutes. I had to hustle.

Something made me think to pick up my banana phone (yes, you heard me right. My phone was a banana and the top inch flipped open to be able to dial and put against your ear) and let my friend know I was coming. When she answered she was very gruff with me and immediately told me that she was in a lot of pain because “didn’t I know she’d had an accident?!? And was in no shape to have company??!!??”

We proceeded to have a very frightful verbal fight on the phone, and in the middle of one of her tirades I just hung up my banana phone on her. SLAM!! Or more apt SNAP!! I couldn’t believe she’d spoken to me like that. We’ve been friends for many years and have never spoken like that to one another.

Some other stuff happened in the dream, which I don’t remember, but then in the end I called her back, apologized and we made friends again.

I woke up feeling fine.

That was one weird dream, but then last night ……

I dreamt I was with friends having a picnic outside of an old abandoned mansion. A little girl with us kept wandering off and going into the old house. I went in looking for her and came across a good-looking young man who was the curator of the house and was giving tours. He was explaining the significance of different architecture and items in the old house.

He eventually led us downstairs into the basement garage where there was a moving conveyor belt of antique cars and carriages. There were even a few horses down there for effect. Walking further into the bowls of the basement it turns out that the curator was in fact a vampire and he had the hots for my neck.

Which would normally be a good thing, but not when sharp teeth are involved.

After getting the goods from me, but not before I also turned into a vampire a couple of young women came into the basement. They were jealous of his attentions to me and simply (squeamish need not read) slit my throat. Don't worry, I didn't feel a thing, although I was a little disgusted at how dirty I was.

Everyone knows that when a vampire wants to turn someone into a fellow vampire they don’t suck you dry (so to speak). So what little blood I had left was now spilling out of the gaping hole in my neck – and I died. Only I didn’t know I died because I kept walking around.

Once I realized I was dead and had tuned into a ghost I went in search for a place that I could haunt for the rest of my ….. life …. eternity …. Whatever it is that follows these events.

And I woke up.

I have absolutely no idea where dream number one came out of. I’m all good with my girlfriend, so there isn’t any angst to work there. But dream number two and cute vampire – that comes straight of the pages of “Twilight” which I’m reading at the moment. This is not a book I would normally read, but a co-worker was adamant that I give it a try.

See what being nice does for you – you read books that give you weird dreams!

Carrot Cake for everyone!

2010-03-16T12:44:00.001-07:00

Well, I don't know how it happened, but I woke up this morning and added a notch to my age. Yes, folks - 48 years ago this morning my parents welcomed this little bundle of joy in their existing family of Ma, Pa & two teenage boys.

The funny part is that I don't really think of myself as 'that' age. I probably would peg myself somewhere in the mid-thirty's. But not in a delusional way. In a good way. I was 8 when my mom was 48 and she seemed so old. Mind you - she was pretty exhausted raising me. I don't think she ever got over getting pregnant at 39 and with teen boys at home. This is where I can safely say that my mom lived firmly in the land of "denial". But that's another story.

When my mom was 48, and I was turned 8 it was 1970. In 1970 ....

Men wore pants that went VERY high, and were large in the leg.

My mother made most of my close, generally in polyester and in oranges and browns.

Platform shoes and disco were beginning their rise to fame.
(keep in mind I wasn't born in 1970, but a merely reflecting on my mothers life when she was my age now.)

I share my birthday with these folks: Flavor Flav, Erik Estrada, Susan E. Isaacs, Lauren Graham, Jerry Lewis, Henny Youngman - to name a few.

I have in fact had a wonderful day at work. I've barely got a lick of work done. I've been sung the Happy Birthday song twice, and a co-worker baked my favourite "Carrot Cake" with cream cheese icing. I don't think I've been treated quite this royally for a long long time. And it feels good, and I feel loved.

It's all good my blogger friends! It's all good!

School daze memories

2010-03-11T10:01:00.000-08:00

A huge thank you to all who responded to my last post. I am delighted to say that my sixth invitation was accepted, and we will be joined by another couple.

One of my commentors said something to the effect that I should forget the couple thing and have a girls night out. Which is a brilliant idea, however, as 50% of the gender of the couples I asked ARE my girl friends and the ones I would ask to do a girls night out. So you see I'd still find myself in the same dilemma.

But, it's all good.

On another note - last night as I lay in bed I asked myself a question and I'd like to pass it along to you.

In your days at Elementary School - what was your favourite room at the school?

I'm really not sure why this query came to my mind, but it did and I reflected on it. Kindergarten through half of grade 5 was spent at Central Elementary School. It was in fact the same elementary school my dad had attended 40 years earlier, and my Grandfather (a mason or brick layer) had helped build.

School was never a strong point, or even a truly happy place for me growing up. I did not take comfort in books or learning. Social skills for this very shy little lass were hard to come by, and I generally spent a lot of time causing "innocent" trouble in the classroom - especially for the boys for some reason.

But I digress - my favourite room in the entire two storey building was not the Gym (Phys-ed and I never did see eye-to-eye), nor the Art room (back in the days when the school system actually taught art), or the music room (the teacher had a lazy eye and I could never tell if she was looking at me or yelling at the person beside me). Strangely enough it was the Library that I took comfort in being in. I say 'strangely' because I didn't like to read.

If a book had lots of pictures I'd be gone for hours just looking at different things. But reading . . . not my bag. I can even remember being one of the kids that had to take the Remedial Reading class. Hated it!

But there was something about the peaceful quietness of the library that I couldn't find anywhere else. I even remember there being a huge bay window in this room that begged to have you curl up in the window seat and daydream out the window - or into a fun picture book - take your pick.

It wasn't until a few years later, and a different school that I truly got hooked on ready. At the ripe old age of 12 I somehow got introduced to Historical (read: bodice ripper) Romance. I've rarely been without a book on the go since then. Although, I'm happy to say my reading tastes have matured.

I don't visit the library very often, but when I do, I always drink in the change of pace and excitement at finding a new adventure on the written page.

So .... what was your favourite room and why?

I Refuse to Pity Party Alone!

2010-03-08T10:32:00.000-08:00

I'm having a pity party and you are all invited!!!

That being said - I don't want any pity comments left. I just need a place to express my downtrodden heart.

As I've expressed on many occasions here, I have a husband who is a good hermit. He would even tell you that he doesn't like people - except me. I, on the other hand, need / want / desire a little more social in my life - but because my husband doesn't wish to participate - I often forgo adventures with friends. And I fear the outcome has been that I/we have alienated ourselves from many of our friends.

That's not my pity party - this is ....

Next week is my birthday. Tuesday to be exact. It falls (and usually does) directly in the middle of spring break so although that doesn't affect me, it does affect a number of our acquaintances who are erstwhile busy with family type things.

In an extreme need for outside of the normal social (usually the hubby will take me out for dinner, and we'd be home by 7:30 and plugged back into the TV) I decided that I needed to find one couple who would go out to dinner with us. Change it up, as it were. I didn't think this would be a hard task - find one other couple in this world who also need to eat ....

I was wrong. As of this morning I have been turned down by no less that 4 couples. All with legitimate reasons - out of town - meetings .... Its the way life goes. But its just making my heart hurt so much.

Do I smell?

Do people really not like me (or my husband)?

Do I have the worlds worst timing? I can't help when I was born.

And YES - for me it is important to do something extra special ON the day. Is this so wrong? (That and I will not compromise on Birthday cake - must be Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese icing.)

Does anyone want to come and celebrate my birthday with me?

To Afraid to Party, Eh!

2010-03-04T09:35:00.000-08:00

You are SOOOO not a daring bunch, but that’s ok. I still love you. (do you feel guilt ridden?)

Thank you to the commenter’s from my last post for taking the time to let me know you’d read my challenge. Thanks to EuGeNe for sending a photo, unfortunately I was unable to open it. But I certainly appreciate the effort.

So – with no further fan fair I will fill this entry with a brief history of Mugwhump and hair.

As do most babies, I started out bald.

I like to think I toddled right into the realm of cute - blond and blue eyed.

Unfortunately I think all was lost by the time my first day of school rolled around (September 1967). I was quickly descending into geekdom.

By age 12 it was proven I had no fashion sense. This particular pink dress (a hand me down, and I hated it) is probably the very reason I can't stand pink to this day. Arrrrgh!!! That's my proud Mom in the background.

Continuing to live on the edge of unfortunate this picture is from my high school graduation (June 1980). My best friends mom decided to help me with a home perm the day before this picture was taken. It burned my hair to a frizzy crisp. This picture (thankfully) doesn't show the full extent of damage done. I had managed to straighten it a little, but I swore off of home perms for the rest of my life.

Unless you lived the 80's you may not recall that 'big hair' was in. I - the ever unaware fashionista - followed suit - big hair - big shoulder pads.

I like to think I've learned a thing or two over the last 48 years of living on this earth. Mostly - that if you can't laugh at yourself - you can't laugh with your heart. And believe me - these pictures give me much to laugh at.

So once you've picked yourselves up off the floor let me know that you're laughing with me, not at me. :-)

I'll Show You Mine, If You Show Me Yours

2010-03-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

Nothing dirty here!!!

I dare you to send me a picture of your worst hair cut/do.

I WILL locate my worst haircut picture, and I even know which one it was.

If you are brave - send me your worst. You can even blot out your face if you need to, to keep you anonymity. I'm down with that. But I wanna see the hair!

You can email it to lj . ducharme at gmail dot com.

I'll compile all contenders and post them at the end of the week.

Come on ..... be brave!

Little Froggy Springtime

2010-02-28T17:59:00.001-08:00

Spring is in the air, and cherry blossoms are in bloom.
My felting is even amazing me.

I love Victoria at this time of the year.
I truly thank God for such a beautiful place to live, and the 14 Gold medals Canada won at the Olympics doesn't hurt either.

I make no apologies for my gloating. We all need things to be proud of.

Contemplating a Business Endeavour

2010-02-23T11:22:00.000-08:00

After yesterdays rather dismal (topic) entry I thought I should switch up the program. Not to confused with switching up my routine.

What can any of you tell me about ETSY?

I know that it’s an EB&Y like site – only dedicated to all things hand crafted. But does it work?

I’m thinking about selling my felting creations there. I’ve looked at what’s already listed on the site, and my abilities are just as good as some of those posted. I’d like to sell my needle-felted work, so why not via this avenue?

Is there anything I should be concerned about?

And while I have your attention (hopefully) here are my two latest projects:

Meow Cat

and a Giraffe.

I really enjoyed making this giraffe. He stands about 8 inches tall, and is up for sale. Although, pricing is another thing I've got to put my mind around. How do you put a value on these kinds of things???

The cat is a birthday gift for a girlfriend, but there will be more to come.

Monday's Mental Meanderings

2010-02-22T14:38:00.000-08:00

I’m feeling a little disjointed today. My regular routine was thrown under the bus when I had to get up an hour earlier than normal to get my husband off to the airport as he travels for business. Do any of you live near Nashville? Can you keep an eye out or him?

Its mornings like this that I am reminded of my devotion to routine. Switch up my routine and it really discombobulates me. A whole domino effect occurs and can only be righted by nightfall / bedtime. Hopefully.

On a different note – I had my hair trimmed/cut a week or so ago. I needed it tidied up, but also suggested some different arrangements. The two cutters that I would usually entrust my head to are no longer available. And I do not entrust my head lightly. I have so little in it, but what I do have is necessary.

Long story short, I decided to try a recommendation of a friend, and she did a nice job.

However – given the length and shape there are times when I look in the mirror and startle myself. The person looking back at me is not I, but my mom. Which gives me a horror level shiver up my spine. It’s not that my mother was hideous or anything, its just that I don’t want to be the person she was - jealous, alcoholic, mean sarcastic, insecure, and blinded to her own poor excuse for a marriage.

She had her good points – she was creative, devoted to my dad … did I say creative?

What I need to remind myself of when I get scared of seeing all too clearly the reflection the comes with disturbing memories is that I AM NOT her. I am my own person. Albeit with my own flaws, but I like to think I’m living more self-aware. I will not live the life of a martyr or victim – like my mother did.

I am not my mother. I am my own person.

I can’t help the way I look – a combination of both parents, but mostly my mom’s hair and eye’s. I have no idea where this nose came from (probably a throw back from a long deceased relative. Blast those infernal genes anyway).

My mom and I had a rocky relationship at but I can’t allow that to flavour the life that I have been blessed with.

What about you? Who do you see when you look in the mirror?

The First 50 Are Hard

2010-02-17T10:18:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth asked me an interesting question, but one that leaves me asking more questions. Here is what she’s asked:

“Do you think marriage is easier for someone of my generation or yours or is it all still the same?”

I find this an interesting question because I think Elizabeth is making assumptions about me (no offence given or taken) about my age & married life. And as I take a gander at her blog – I too have to make some assumptions on those same themes about her.

Elizabeth – you look like a woman in your early 30’s (please forgive me if I’m way off the mark), and based on the pictures of you and your husband I would also gather you’ve been married for roughly 10 years, give or take.

I – on the other hand, will be 48 next month (but don’t feel anywhere near that), and have only been married for 7.5 years. My husband is 2 years younger than me, and we are both late bloomers in the marriage market.

So, this is where I’m at with the initial question: Is the question – is marriage easier or harder in your 40’s moving to towards 50’s (ewww blech, don’t like the sound of that fufufuffifty…. part) vs. marriage in ones 20’s & 30’s?

Or – is marriage easier in the first 10 years, or after the first 10 years.

My gut reaction is in the form of a question: Is marriage EVER easy? I always get a kick out of people who have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, or greater and they all same the same thing – the first 50 were hard; the next 50 will be easier. My own parents lived long enough to see their 54th and didn’t hit stride until their 50th. Which, if you do the math – that makes only the last 4 sliding on easy street (and dementia did not play a part in it).

As someone who ended up waiting until she was 39 to find someone to love and marry, I spent over 20 adult years living on my own, and by my own rules. I didn’t even have roommates for the vast majority of those years. So, our 1st year of marriage was a difficult adjustment. I seriously learned the word “compromise”, and didn’t like it much. In fact I think we can both admit that the first years was the hardest, and I never want to work that hard at anything again. But I was then, and still am 100% committed to making it all work.

Of course there are things I would like to change. I suspect there always will be. Marriage changes you, it has too, it can’t not. For good or bad, it’s just the way these things unpack.

Is marriage easier in your 40’s? You’ve got to have come to know yourself by the time you reach your 40’s. If you don’t then you’ve been living under a rock, which is a whole different story.

Would I have preferred to have been married in my 20’s? Sure, but then I wouldn’t be the person I am now. The person that my husband fell in love with at 39 is not the same person he would have met twenty years previous. In fact, we’ve often joked that we probably wouldn’t have given each other second glances when we were in our twenties (or thirties for that matter).

Marriages are complex, hard, fun, exhilarating, infuriating, ever evolving, and one of the most joyful thing you ever do in your life. Does this answer your question Elizabeth?

P.S. to Previous Post

2010-02-09T13:10:00.001-08:00

I stand corrected. The Bumbles weren't the only ones to ask me a question. In fact Poolie asked me if I remembered how I'd found her.

So - I had two questioners.

The answer, however eludes me. Our visitations predate my life on Blogspot. I believe we were both on Diaryland at the time, and for some reason I believe "Emerald" (aka Violet) was the portal. But as in most of life - I have no certainty of these things.

Responses and British Wit

2010-02-09T11:14:00.000-08:00

First off – a big “Holla” to the lovely folks who left me comments after my last post. You made my days sparkle a little brighter.

That said – only one of them dared to ask me a question. Thanks The Bumbles for taking me up on it. The question asked is:
“Do you appreciate Monty Python?

I hope this doesn’t diminish me in your eyes, but I adore British humour. I think it started when I was a kid and my mom watched “On the Buses”, and “Doctor In the House”. Then when I got a little older I discovered “To The Manor Born”, “Jeeves & Wooster”, and then my favourite of all favourites (in the 80’s) the “Blackadder” series and tied closely with “Red Dwarf”. I daren’t leave out the short lived series “Faulty Towers”.

Intermingled through the 70’s was “Monty Python”. And by that I mean paying good money to see their movies at the theaters. My warped and sarcastic humour found a home. The “Dead Parrot ” sketch, “Ministry of Silly Walks”, “The Lumberjack Song” to name a few that I can almost repeat verbatim.

However, my sense of haha line has its limits. I don’t enjoy “Mr. Bean” – although if you catch me on an off day – I can be seen laughing at the episode of him in a church service trying to stay unnoticed while unwrapping a mint or lozenge. That one kills me, but mostly because of personal experience.

So – do you still have any respect for me? Do you want me to destroy your phone number and promise never to call you again? Or … in hope against all hope I have wiggled myself further into your furry little hearts. Please say yes.

P.S.
The Bumbles - The Lovely Bones was an interesting book. I gave a huge sigh at the end at the picture of the icicles. But it sure does make you look at your neighbour twice. And yes - I do believe we can blame all of this on Cardio Girl. She's a good catalyst, isn't she?

Poolie - I'm pretty sure I found you while I was still living on Diaryland, but I'm not at all sure how our paths ended up converging. I'm glad it did though.

Pointing Fingers At Others

2010-02-05T13:01:00.000-08:00

Oh man! There are some awesome topics of discussion out there on my blogroll today.

If you're in the mood to contemplate love, hate, and vengeance check out Cardio Girl. She posts an interesting question every Friday.

If you're more into blogging, lurkers, and stalkers check out The Bumbles.

Both reads have given me much food for thought today. It's Friday, for which I'm very thankful, and we have no plans for the weekend, which makes me even more thankful.

On other news fronts, I've had a few new visitors to Musings this week. I've often wondered where people/bloggers come from. How did they find me? I find it fascinating to check out a first-time commenter. Do a quick scan of their writing style and profile (and always let them know I've been by and thank them for visiting). In particular I'm always surprised when I find that I have little to nothing in common with a visitor.

Oh this blogging thing is a mystery wrapped up in a question mark isn't it?

But I'll leave you with a query of my own - if you could ask me anything you wanted - what would it be? (I may or may not answer. That will depend on your question.)

Blondes ..... Gotta Love 'em

2010-02-01T09:23:00.001-08:00

I work with woman who is a true blond. She is the first one to make a "blond" joke, and acknowledge her own blondness.

This morning was no exception.

We were in the copier room together this morning, and she was standing in front of the paper shredder looking down on it about to shred some paperwork.

"Someone's fooling with me." she said. "Someone put the shredder top on backwards."

So ... what did she do ... she turned the piece of paper in her hand around and then shredded it.

********************

Don't make me explain this one to you.

Blogging Does Not An Author Make

2010-01-29T14:38:00.000-08:00

What the heck happened? Where did my week go?

I'm sure you're probably asking yourself the very same question(s).

I swear I grudgingly, blinkingly, force myself out of bed on Monday mornings and the next thing I know - its Friday. Happens faithfully every week.

But this makes me reflect on time in general. I had one such reflective day on Wednesday this week. Why, you may ask? Well for one reason, had my mother been alive it would have been her 88th birthday. Thinking of her birthday ALWAYS makes me do the math on my own. But I'll dodge this topic for another day.

The other item I reflected on was that January 27th is an anniversary of sorts for me. I began blogging on January 27th, 2004 (on another blog hosting site. I didn't move over to blogspot until a few years ago).

Six years of putting myself out there. Six years of whining, and weeping, and celebrating, and cavorting, and gnashing of teeth. I've gained friends, drifted in and out of others lives, and loved every journal-ling moment of it.

I've balanced on a fine line of what's too much information, and what's just enough to keep you coming back, or at least enough not to embarrass myself with. I constantly try to remind myself who I'm writing for. For Me? Or for you? But lets face it - we all want to be read by a blogroll a mile long. I write what I want people to read, and come back to keep on reading. I want you to like me. I want you to want to read me - like a good drug. I want to endear myself so fully to you that you will read me regardless of the trollop I put out. (Believe me when I say I know that I put out a fair amount of rubbish, at least I think so when I go back and read my early writings).

All that to say - Yay me! Six years behind me, and untold stories ahead of me. Lucky you's.

Taboo or not?

2010-01-28T11:17:00.001-08:00

J.D. Salinger died today at the age of 91. He was a reclusive writer, and was best known for "Catcher In The Rye".

I never got what all the fuss was about that novel. I read it in my teen years. I read it because everyone said it was controversial and band from Canadian schools. Or at least I was given that impression. We all know that if something is made 'taboo' that any self respecting has to get their hands on it... right?!

So, I'm asking - did you ever read it? Did you get it? What was all the hullabaloo about?

(Cool. I just used the word hullabaloo. I don't think I've ever written it before).

2010-01-21T13:08:00.000-08:00

The hubster will be home tomorrow evening. And I'm ready for him to come home. I've enjoyed having the house to myself, but I also know that this is going to be a reoccurring theme.

It's so quiet.

There's little to no mess to clean up.

I can eat what and when I want and it generally involves vegetables (unheard of in our household).

But I do miss the hugs and the smiles.

I digress . . . I've been keeping myself busy non-the-less. And to prove it, here are some photo's.

The little dog "Duke" you've seen before, but his companion is "Marlie" a Black German Shepherd. Both dogs, in real life, belong to my brother, and I created these for him for his birthday a week ago. I've really got to get them in the mail. (I admit this only to you few readers - I'm not happy with how Marlie turned out. Nose isn't right. Neck is too long .... my list could go on. But I have to remember that I only started doing this felting stuff back at the end of November. Ya get whatcha get. Right!?)

The Dinosaur was something I just started the other night and finished last night.

Idle hands are the devils play ground .... Actually - my hands aren't idle, but they're sure playing!

Calm After the Storm

2010-01-19T16:59:00.000-08:00

I had a horrible nightmare last night. I’m not going to candy coat it, or lead slowing into it – it was a horrible dream.

So much so that I woke up from it and began to cry. I’m not even sure where the emotion was coming from. Which only got further complicated when I began lamenting the fact that my husband was not there to hold me during my torrent of emotion.

The dream started out simple enough, but quickly escalated to a screaming match. I didn’t know the majority of the people in my dream, and I won’t go into what all went on, but what I do remember was the extreme amount of anger that I was feeling. Hence the crying once I woke up. At one point in the dream I was screaming so hard and venomously (major expletives emitted) that the pitch of my voice was high enough that only dog’s could hear – at which point my voice completely cut out.

Everyone one around me was taunting me, and trying to provoke me to physical anger, but I fought it – the desire to hit someone. Eventually the police were called in for a “domestic dispute”.

I was trying to calm down and catch my breath, and try to explain what was going on. Everything that came out of my mouth made me sound crazier and crazier. I began to feel more and more hopeless.

At several points I remember saying to myself “This is so High School”. I suppose it was in reference to the reasoning behind my initial upset, but I kept repeating, “This is so high school. This is just SO high school.”

But people wouldn’t leave me alone. On one hand they were afraid to be in the room with me, but on the other hand they were afraid to leave me in a room by myself. Personally, I would have preferred to have been left by myself, but I had momentary thoughts of committing suicide just to make the anger go away.

That’s when I woke up, and began to cry. I couldn’t shake the feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. It really rattled my morning. I’m actually kinda happy the hubby wasn’t here. I’m not sure how I would have explained it all to him. I’m not even sure I want to explain it to myself.

I realize this is the second or so time that I’ve written about my dreams, and they’ve both been weird and twisted. I assure you this is not the norm. I love dreaming, and generally find them most entertaining. Just not lately it seems.

I will sleep better tonight. I will resort to drugs to make it so ☺

Adjusting to a Change of Pace

2010-01-17T14:52:00.000-08:00

I know many of you think I'm pretty whacked, and I think this may confirm it.

I married late in life, and lived alone for the fast majority of those unmarried adult years. I enjoyed living alone (most of the time). My first year of marriage was a real challenge for getting used to someone else being in 'my' home, even though this room-mate was for all the right reasons.

One of the other adjustments I made was settling down into a less than "social" life because my husband is very introverted. VERY! He's often told me he would like to like in a cave, far far from everyone - except me. That's pretty introverted. So it took me a few years to begin to rebuild relationships and patterns and feeding the part of me the needs my friends and social.

So I've take very proud moments of deciding "yes, I will go out tonight and hang with .... (insert friends name)".

Here's where I prove myself quite whack - this morning at 6:45am AND a Sunday, I got up so that I could take my wonderful hubby to the airport. He's off to Tennessee for a week of business. Here I am now, sitting at home, in my living room luxuriating in the .... silence. The aloneness.

I love my aloneness. I love having the house to myself. I love my husband, and will miss him .... tomorrow. But right now - I'm lovin' having the house all to myself.

And yet you would think that I would be revelling with the opportunity of connecting with friends and having them over. Or because I have no one waiting for me at home - creating coffee dates out.

I'm torn, but my inner introvert is enjoying the moment, and for now - maybe just tonight I will obey my quieter self.

One drawback to the silence - my tinnitus is loud and clear. No rest for the wicked, but then again, I don't have to share the bed tonight. :-)

Little Life Lessons

2010-01-08T13:13:00.001-08:00

As I'm sure many of you have noted, I'm not the best grammatically correct writer. I really struggle, and have to stop and think twice frequently over spelling, grammar, tense ..... It's enough to give me a headache.

But today I found this site, and will forever bookmark its life lessons on apostrophe's .... or is it apostrophes ... ? and this one for spelling.

Have a happy weekend.

Be Careful What You Pray For

2010-01-03T14:59:00.000-08:00

It's a lovely quiet Sunday afternoon here in overcast, ready to rain Victoria. We've had a wonderful break and I can already feeling myself girding up to go back to work tomorrow. It's all good.

But I digress and need to catch you up on the recent festivities of Christmas, travels, and family. As I stated a couple of entries ago our Christmas plans were to travel down the to Bay area of California and spend Christmas with my brothers and their families. It is ALWAYS a fun time with my siblings and their kids - and I mean ALWAYS. I rarely laugh as hard or as long normally as I do with them. They bring out a side of me that others rarely see, and I often miss myself.

But to back up even a little bit more .... when I get around my family something strange and wonderful takes over me. I very easily get carried away and leave my husband in the dust. The excitement of being with them, and the ensuing fun that will be had makes me lose sight of my husbands more reserved nature. I don't mean to, but I end up 'thinking' he's carried up and away just like I am, when in fact he's barely treading water.

So when the invitation was given to us my husbands one request was to not leave him on the curb. With this in my mind, and knowing my propensities I asked a close girlfriend of mine to pray for me over the holidays. Pray that I would be ever mindful of my husband and his needs for my attention over the course of our time with my ever exuberant family.

Tim and I departed on the morning of the 23rd. We had a 15+ hour drive ahead of us split up over two days. Typical west coast it was overcast and dreary, but knowing there was a family reunion less than 48 hours in my future the day could not have shone brighter. The ferry was uneventful, but the roads were busy once we got the wheels rolling again. I always feel like the longest part of any trip is the time spent on the ferry and getting through Vancouver. This trip was no different.

The Interstate 5 through Washington state was equally as uneventful as the ferry, but once we hit the Washington / Oregon border fog descended and stayed. In fact, it stayed right until we hit the Oregon / California border - and then the fog lifted and we could see our surroundings again.

We stopped for the night in Southerlin, Oregon far to far away from California for my liking, but basically half way. Back on the road again, speeding south we finally made it to the Oregon / California border by approximately noon. Just a few short miles north of Weed, California we stopped at a rest area to stretch our legs and divest our bodies of unwanted fluids.

At most Rest Areas I like to seek out a map of the area and see just how far we've come, how far we've got to go, and figure out where the heck we are in the grand scheme of things. And at most U.S. rest areas in particular, there are informative signs with maps, and local flora and fauna.

Although Weed is a higher elevation than we had been crossing over, the temperature was hovering just at freezing. We had not seen much snow, rare skiffs along the side of the highway, but generally clear of ice. That being said, as I walked towards the information board my right foot came in contact with what I have deemed to be the only icy patch in all of California in December 2009. My right foot went left, my ankle went right, and the rest of me followed my toes - and I went down hard. It all happened in a blink of an eye. Slow motion in my brain, an image popped into my brain of my ankle now being in a pretzel shape like in the cartoons. But the pain it was feeling was far from funny.

Praise God, but I didn't hear any pop or crack - other than my pride crumbling as only humans can do when they take an indiscriminate tumble. However, this time - I didn't bounce back up and pretend like nothing happened. Something happened, and I knew that I was not just going to be able to walked this on off.

Wincing I hobbled back to the car, and tried to assure Tim that I was going to live and that we would make it to my brothers before nightfall. I was determined that this was just mind over matter, and if I pretended that nothing was wrong - then nothing would be wrong. Darn it!

A further hour and a half down the road we stopped again at a rest area. And I finally braved a look at the ankle. It was hot, it was swollen, and already starting to bruise up. I convinced Tim that although I DID NOT want to find a hospital or a clinic - it was Christmas Eve for goodness sake - that we should find a pharmacy and get a cold pack and a tensor bandage. Which we did.

I propped myself up in the back seat to elevate the leg and ankle. For the next several minutes Tim and I took turns trying to get the "instant cold-pack" started. You just had to find the little package of catalyst inside the bag and pop it. This proved to be almost hilarical - if I hadn't been in so much discomfort. Neither one of us could pop it and our minds kept trying to convince ourselves that the packet was getting colder. It wasn't.

Finally I hit the right spot and icy coldness flooded the bag and I applied it, wrapped into the tensor, to my ankle.

And we carried on and arrived at my brothers place around 8pm. Gimping from embrace to wonderful familial embrace Christmas arrived, and we were with the people who mean the most to me in this world.

Safely landed on terra-firma I created a spot for myself on the couch and kept the foot raised, wrapped, and iced for the next several days. We had a marvellous time of laughing, drinking, playing games, opening presents, and generally enjoying each others company to the fullest.

God answered my (and my girlfriends) prayers in an extraordinary way. I was forced to slow down and appreciate my husband and my family in a less than hectic manner. Never leaving him in the dust, but rather encouraging his own interaction with people that cared as much for him as I do. And I am thankful on so many levels.

Once returning to Victoria I sought out a doctor who sent me for x-rays. Nothing serious showed up. Today - 11 days later - my ankle is doing better although I'm still limping somewhat, and a little ginger for fear of doing it again, but know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I rest in the palm of my makers hand.

I hope and pray that Christmas and New Year were equally as special for you. Happy 2010 dear readers.

2009-12-21T10:00:00.001-08:00

As is typical for this time of year - time fly's by so quickly.

I have two more sleeps until we travel south for Christmas, and there's no telling how often I'll get back to you all to wish you much love and Christmas cheer.

So please accept this virtual Christmas card from your Mugwhump.

But don't think because I'm not posting that I'm also not checking up on you. So you better be good while I'm gone, and don't eat too many sweets.

Merry Christmas, lots of love and hugs,

LJ

As Promised Caus' You Asked

2009-12-10T17:09:00.001-08:00

Couch ...

Recliner .....

Love Seat ....

In the direct shot of the reliner, my back is right against the fire place. Not much room.

Tight, but warm and welcoming quarters. Can you see the Mooses on the lampses?