It's fitting that we return from our first RV trip on Valentine's Day. Yes, we took the plunge and bought a 21 foot Travel Trailer last month. This was our Maiden Voyage and boy, did we ever have a blast! I can say this NOW that I'm home, freshly showered & shampooed, wearing clean jammies and working on my 2nd healthy-sized glass of Rogue Vineyards (Columbia Valley, Washington) Chardonnay. Mr itsme has a Tuscan-style tri-tip (white wine & rosemary) on the BBQ and I'm steamming fresh carrots & broccoli. Can life get any better than this? Only in California right? Holy Cow, it's 71 degs at 5:40pm. Don't hate me because I'm not shoveling snow!
Happy Valentine's Day!!!
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Friday, February 05, 2010
New Family Addition
Brandon James Edwin born tonight, 7:45pm. 7lbs, 15oz, 21 inches. I'm in awe! My late Brother Ed's 5th Grandchild and 2nd Grandson. He would have been so happy. Mom, Dad, and Sisters Allysa & Jordan are doing well.
Welcome to the world little Brandon!
Welcome to the world little Brandon!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
State of the Union Address 2010
Dear President Obama,
Tonight, I want to hear you talk about 3 things: jobs, economic security and health care reform.
I want to hear about the steps you will take in saving American jobs from outsourcing. Each job we lose everyday is a job lost. You said during your campaign that you would stop the outsourcing of jobs to cheaper countries like India, but you aren’t talking about that anymore. How about some tax credits for small businesses that stay in the USA? How about helping students pay off college debt and really cracking down on Wall Street? How about a stimulus package for everyday Americans? I am tired of the empty rhetoric, your obsession for Republican love and approval, and this stupid “freeze” gimmick. I want to hear you challenge the left and right wing of the House and Senate to write and pass laws that will work for ALL Americans.
You need to forcefully and decisively charge the Democrats to pass a healthcare bill that includes a strong public option. Remind them of the mandated majority that swept them to victory in the first place because in 2012 they might not be so lucky.
And finally, Mr. President, I hope you realize you need to lead and to fight for the promises you made in your campaign. The American People elected a Democrat and you have to start listening to the American People.
Tonight, I want to hear you talk about 3 things: jobs, economic security and health care reform.
I want to hear about the steps you will take in saving American jobs from outsourcing. Each job we lose everyday is a job lost. You said during your campaign that you would stop the outsourcing of jobs to cheaper countries like India, but you aren’t talking about that anymore. How about some tax credits for small businesses that stay in the USA? How about helping students pay off college debt and really cracking down on Wall Street? How about a stimulus package for everyday Americans? I am tired of the empty rhetoric, your obsession for Republican love and approval, and this stupid “freeze” gimmick. I want to hear you challenge the left and right wing of the House and Senate to write and pass laws that will work for ALL Americans.
You need to forcefully and decisively charge the Democrats to pass a healthcare bill that includes a strong public option. Remind them of the mandated majority that swept them to victory in the first place because in 2012 they might not be so lucky.
And finally, Mr. President, I hope you realize you need to lead and to fight for the promises you made in your campaign. The American People elected a Democrat and you have to start listening to the American People.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
The Face of Ignorance
Pat Robertson is a fraud, an uneducated charlatan and snake oil salesman who has neither heart nor soul. He peddles hate and calls it religion while wearing his $1,000 suits and living in his $16 million mansion. Just when I thought religion and religious people couldn't be more comical for the ignorant things they believe, this whack-job opens his mouth. He is the poster child of the conservative movement in this country.
It is hard to believe that people actually believe his garbage. His insane comment about the victims of earthquake-ravaged Haiti as being "cursed" because of a "pact to the devil" is yet another classic example of why our Founding Fathers wrote into our Constitution the separation of church and state. If religious fanatics like this man were elected to high office, he'd be burning witches in front of the US Capital building!
Unless I'm wrong, I thought that one of the main tenets of the christian faith was to love thy neighbor and treat others like you'd want to be treated. Why then, would Pat Robertson say such a heinous thing about Haiti at a time when tens of thousands of people are dying from a natural disaster? If he were a Christian he might be more concerned with the human suffering than assigning meaningless moral blame. He is a sadistic money-maker who will say any outlandish foolishness to start a controversy to get attention.
Then again, his comments are not a big surprise. Reverend Robertson is a delusional, hypocritical, religious parasite who is completely out of line and showing nothing short of complete insensitivity. We have been listening to this type of garbage from the far right far too long. (Unfortunately, we will have to listen to one more idiot now that Fox news has added their new commentator to their lineup).
So send your relief money for Haiti to the Red Cross, UNICEF, etc., and don't send to any so-called Christian relief organizations. Chances are it will end up in the pocket of someone like Pat Robertson, who when he dies, will become fodder for worms, just like the rest of us.
It is hard to believe that people actually believe his garbage. His insane comment about the victims of earthquake-ravaged Haiti as being "cursed" because of a "pact to the devil" is yet another classic example of why our Founding Fathers wrote into our Constitution the separation of church and state. If religious fanatics like this man were elected to high office, he'd be burning witches in front of the US Capital building!
Unless I'm wrong, I thought that one of the main tenets of the christian faith was to love thy neighbor and treat others like you'd want to be treated. Why then, would Pat Robertson say such a heinous thing about Haiti at a time when tens of thousands of people are dying from a natural disaster? If he were a Christian he might be more concerned with the human suffering than assigning meaningless moral blame. He is a sadistic money-maker who will say any outlandish foolishness to start a controversy to get attention.
Then again, his comments are not a big surprise. Reverend Robertson is a delusional, hypocritical, religious parasite who is completely out of line and showing nothing short of complete insensitivity. We have been listening to this type of garbage from the far right far too long. (Unfortunately, we will have to listen to one more idiot now that Fox news has added their new commentator to their lineup).
So send your relief money for Haiti to the Red Cross, UNICEF, etc., and don't send to any so-called Christian relief organizations. Chances are it will end up in the pocket of someone like Pat Robertson, who when he dies, will become fodder for worms, just like the rest of us.
Friday, January 01, 2010
Happy New Year . . . and Don't Look Back
I don't make New Year's resolutions anymore. I do, however, like to believe that at the beginning of a new year -and with 2010, a new decade- that I can wipe the slate clean and make a fresh start. I've finally come to that point in my life when I realize what matters, what never did, and what always will.
This year I will focus on letting go of things (like making resolutions) that deflect my attention from the really important things. What a person pursues in life depends on what she values. My values, basic tastes and preferences determine my priorities and the way I occupy myself and spend my time.
This year I will educate, agitate, and organize, but not necessarily in that order.
This year I will focus on letting go of things (like making resolutions) that deflect my attention from the really important things. What a person pursues in life depends on what she values. My values, basic tastes and preferences determine my priorities and the way I occupy myself and spend my time.
This year I will educate, agitate, and organize, but not necessarily in that order.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas 2009
Wow, hard to believe another Christmas has come and gone. I've been thinking that this has been the best Christmas yet, and I haven't received one single present (OK, from my friend KD in Arizona). Lots and lots of time visiting family (all 3 sides) from baking with all the kiddlings in the family to sharing Christmas Day brunch with youngest brother and Christmas dinner with middle brother.
Here's to hoping that you and yours (lightly included) have a wonderful holiday season, or, what's left of it.
Blessings,
Here's to hoping that you and yours (lightly included) have a wonderful holiday season, or, what's left of it.
Blessings,
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Cooking with Mario Batali
Three times this week, I've dreamed I've been cooking with Mario Batali. There I am in my Chef whites and orange Crocs -but thankfully not in shorts- chopping, dicing, and mincing alongside Mario in the Iron Chef kitchen.
In this latest dream however, I'm grousing about how much I hate chopping, dicing, and mincing. I tell him I'm more of a folding, whipping, and beating kinda gal (as in baking techniques, so get your mind out of the gutter!) He starts lecturing me about how all great Chefs start out doing menial tasks like washing dishes and peeling potatoes and how sometimes we have to do things we will not understand until much later. Pretty wise words from a culinary school dropout who believes that shorts are acceptable attire every day of the year.
But the whole exchange reminded me of the conversation between Daniel-san and Mr. Miyagi in the Karate Kid:
[Miyagi returns from fishing as Daniel is painting the house] Oh, miss spot.
Daniel: What spot? Hey, how come you didn't tell me you were goin' fishing?
Miyagi: You not here when I go.
Daniel: Well, maybe I wanted to go, you ever think of that?
Miyagi: You karate training.
Daniel: I'm what? I'm bein' your goddamn slave is what I'm bein' here man, now c'mon we made a deal here!
Miyagi: So?
Daniel: So? So, you're supposed to teach and I'm supposed to learn! For 4 days I've been bustin' my ass, and haven't learned a goddamn thing!
Miyagi: You learn plenty.
Daniel: I learn plenty, yeah, I learned how to sand your decks maybe. I washed your car, paint your house, paint your fence. I learn plenty!
Miyagi: Ah, not everything is as seems...
Even in my dream Mario was right: the basic skills (for anything in life) are the most important of all. But ultimately, Mr. Miyagi was right "Man who catch fly with chopsticks accomplish anything."
In this latest dream however, I'm grousing about how much I hate chopping, dicing, and mincing. I tell him I'm more of a folding, whipping, and beating kinda gal (as in baking techniques, so get your mind out of the gutter!) He starts lecturing me about how all great Chefs start out doing menial tasks like washing dishes and peeling potatoes and how sometimes we have to do things we will not understand until much later. Pretty wise words from a culinary school dropout who believes that shorts are acceptable attire every day of the year.
But the whole exchange reminded me of the conversation between Daniel-san and Mr. Miyagi in the Karate Kid:
[Miyagi returns from fishing as Daniel is painting the house] Oh, miss spot.
Daniel: What spot? Hey, how come you didn't tell me you were goin' fishing?
Miyagi: You not here when I go.
Daniel: Well, maybe I wanted to go, you ever think of that?
Miyagi: You karate training.
Daniel: I'm what? I'm bein' your goddamn slave is what I'm bein' here man, now c'mon we made a deal here!
Miyagi: So?
Daniel: So? So, you're supposed to teach and I'm supposed to learn! For 4 days I've been bustin' my ass, and haven't learned a goddamn thing!
Miyagi: You learn plenty.
Daniel: I learn plenty, yeah, I learned how to sand your decks maybe. I washed your car, paint your house, paint your fence. I learn plenty!
Miyagi: Ah, not everything is as seems...
Even in my dream Mario was right: the basic skills (for anything in life) are the most important of all. But ultimately, Mr. Miyagi was right "Man who catch fly with chopsticks accomplish anything."
Friday, November 20, 2009
Pumpkin Shortage Announced
There is a Communist plot to destroy the holidays this year. First a shortage of Eggo waffles and NOW pumpkin puree. What in heaven's name will be next? Cranberries, miniature marshmallows, Campbell's cream of mushroom soup?
I'm going shopping TODAY and will buy every can of pumpkin puree on my grocery store shelf - yes, I have been reduced to hoarding, but Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie? SACRELIGIOUS!
I'm going shopping TODAY and will buy every can of pumpkin puree on my grocery store shelf - yes, I have been reduced to hoarding, but Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie? SACRELIGIOUS!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
New Mammogram Study
I shouldn't be surprised, but this is a new low for the GOP.
Only women's issues hit the political circuit. Abortion, reproductive rights, birth control, and now mammograms are routinely attacked by a group comprised largely of men. Why are women always underrepresented in these matters?
Prostate exams show a remarkably similar efficiency and also carry the "risks" of stress, false positives, and unnecessary biopsies, yet there is no movement to deter men from getting examinations. And just to keep this topic gender neutral, last week I lost a 46 year old male friend to colon cancer, so it would seem logical (to me) that similar studies on the benefits of automatic colonoscopy at 40 is probably worthwhile but that will probably never happen. As usual, the GOP brings nothing to the table except fear mongering.
In this climate, when we are all paying attention to how we can decrease the cost of health care, the only conclusion I can come to is that it's economically motivated. Forty-nine states require insurers to cover screenings for women 40 and older. Medicare also pays for the procedure. So now, a federal committee of so-called medical experts recommends against routine mammograms for women in their 40s, saying it is not worth subjecting some patients to unnecessary biopsies, radiation and stress from false positives. HELLO, of course, there will be false-positives. It is the false-negatives that kill you!
Breast cancer runs in my family (both sides) and I’ve had yearly mammograms for years now. I’ve had to have repeat mammograms and an even an ultrasound because of “something suspicious.” Yes, it was very stressful and made me extremely anxious but finding out that it was a false alarm was so wonderful that it made up for the anxiety. I cannot imagine any woman thinking that it is worse to have stress and anxiety and a repeat mammogram or even a biopsy than delaying treatment for actual breast cancer.
Many on the Right are now screaming that this is prove positive for the Republican assertion that the Democrats' proposed health reforms would lead to reduced care for patients (aka ‘Rationing’). I’m thinking it’s more likely the task force has been swayed by insurance companies that stand to save money if fewer screenings are performed. Bottom line: we simply cannot continue to allow the insurance industry to continue to drive health-care decisions.
Republicans suddenly care about the health care of American Women? Right. When pigs fly!
Only women's issues hit the political circuit. Abortion, reproductive rights, birth control, and now mammograms are routinely attacked by a group comprised largely of men. Why are women always underrepresented in these matters?
Prostate exams show a remarkably similar efficiency and also carry the "risks" of stress, false positives, and unnecessary biopsies, yet there is no movement to deter men from getting examinations. And just to keep this topic gender neutral, last week I lost a 46 year old male friend to colon cancer, so it would seem logical (to me) that similar studies on the benefits of automatic colonoscopy at 40 is probably worthwhile but that will probably never happen. As usual, the GOP brings nothing to the table except fear mongering.
In this climate, when we are all paying attention to how we can decrease the cost of health care, the only conclusion I can come to is that it's economically motivated. Forty-nine states require insurers to cover screenings for women 40 and older. Medicare also pays for the procedure. So now, a federal committee of so-called medical experts recommends against routine mammograms for women in their 40s, saying it is not worth subjecting some patients to unnecessary biopsies, radiation and stress from false positives. HELLO, of course, there will be false-positives. It is the false-negatives that kill you!
Breast cancer runs in my family (both sides) and I’ve had yearly mammograms for years now. I’ve had to have repeat mammograms and an even an ultrasound because of “something suspicious.” Yes, it was very stressful and made me extremely anxious but finding out that it was a false alarm was so wonderful that it made up for the anxiety. I cannot imagine any woman thinking that it is worse to have stress and anxiety and a repeat mammogram or even a biopsy than delaying treatment for actual breast cancer.
Many on the Right are now screaming that this is prove positive for the Republican assertion that the Democrats' proposed health reforms would lead to reduced care for patients (aka ‘Rationing’). I’m thinking it’s more likely the task force has been swayed by insurance companies that stand to save money if fewer screenings are performed. Bottom line: we simply cannot continue to allow the insurance industry to continue to drive health-care decisions.
Republicans suddenly care about the health care of American Women? Right. When pigs fly!
USPS = GRINCH!
This is just WRONG. I grew up watching "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" (the one voiced by Mickey Rooney and Bing Crosby) and one of the tenets of that show was that ALL of the letters written by children from all over the world were answered by the North Pole. Christmas is a time of wonder and joy and I have written my fair share of Letters to Santa over the years and was always thrilled beyond belief when I got my personal response from Santa (or one of his Elves). How can we as Americans allow the US Postal Service to continue to take away our culture and traditions just to save a little money? I mean COME ON, the government can bail out all kinds of big business and waste our tax dollars anyway they want but they can’t bail out Santa Claus?
USPS I hope you find lumps of coal in your Christmas stockings this year.
USPS I hope you find lumps of coal in your Christmas stockings this year.
Leggo My Eggo!
OMG, two of the four plants that make Eggo waffles have had an "Interuption in production" (terrorists???) and it will take until the middle of 2010 -next summer- before shelves around the country can be fully restocked.
Now you can laugh, but this is serious!!! Forget about health care reform, the war on terror, the economy, etc., write your congressperson NOW and tell them to do whatever it takes to get those Eggo's back in the stores. The American way of life depends on it.
In order to help my fellow Americans get through this difficult time, here is my own recipe for homemade waffles - the only catch is that you have to have a waffle iron. I know, I know, it's not the frozen, tasteless cardboard you're all used to, but it'll do in this time of great despair.
ItMeCissy's Homemade Waffles
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup oil or melted butter
1 3/4 cups milk
1 tablespoon sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Heat the waffle maker (spray with non-stick cooking spray).
Beat the eggs with a hand beater in a medium bowl until light and fluffy.
Beat in remaining waffle recipe ingredients, just until smooth (try not to over beat).
Pour batter from a cup or pitcher onto the center of the waffle maker.
Close lid and bake about 5 minutes or until the waffle maker stops steaming.
Serve immediately with lots of butter, maple syrup, fresh fruit, etc.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Minimum Tools Required:
waffle maker (non-stick preferred)
measuring cup and spoons
whisk or hand mixer
medium mixing bowl and spoon
Just doing my part to lessen your misery, somehow, we'll all get through this together.
Now you can laugh, but this is serious!!! Forget about health care reform, the war on terror, the economy, etc., write your congressperson NOW and tell them to do whatever it takes to get those Eggo's back in the stores. The American way of life depends on it.
In order to help my fellow Americans get through this difficult time, here is my own recipe for homemade waffles - the only catch is that you have to have a waffle iron. I know, I know, it's not the frozen, tasteless cardboard you're all used to, but it'll do in this time of great despair.
ItMeCissy's Homemade Waffles
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup oil or melted butter
1 3/4 cups milk
1 tablespoon sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Heat the waffle maker (spray with non-stick cooking spray).
Beat the eggs with a hand beater in a medium bowl until light and fluffy.
Beat in remaining waffle recipe ingredients, just until smooth (try not to over beat).
Pour batter from a cup or pitcher onto the center of the waffle maker.
Close lid and bake about 5 minutes or until the waffle maker stops steaming.
Serve immediately with lots of butter, maple syrup, fresh fruit, etc.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Minimum Tools Required:
waffle maker (non-stick preferred)
measuring cup and spoons
whisk or hand mixer
medium mixing bowl and spoon
Just doing my part to lessen your misery, somehow, we'll all get through this together.
Monday, November 09, 2009
When I Retire
Now that I am able to see the big 'R' in the light at the end of my tunnel, I find myself wondering what I'm going to do with my life after I retire. Mr. itsme and I have agreed that we want to travel. We've even started looking at travel trailers (since we do not fly) and the rest of my family all have RV's or trailers, so there'd be no shortage of people to "RV with," not that we'd always need them to RV with. I don't think we'll do the boat thing since it's often said that a boat is just a big black hole in the water you throw money into. A friend advises that the best way to have a boat is to have a friend that has a boat. That works for me.
Except for a summer working in retail sales (NO THANK YOU EVER AGAIN) libraries have been my life. Still, I don't want to retire from my University library to work again in a library, probably a public library, for less money. And probably for people less experienced than me. (Sounds snooty, I know). I have a comfortable, non-threatening look about me, kinda like a friendly-faced Golden Retriever without the lolling tongue and wagging tail, although I have been known to drool occasionally.
I love to bake, cook (I read cookbooks for pleasure), entertain, and make guests comfortable in my home (hmmm, sounds a little Geisha-like; alas, I'm over 21, too old to be a Geisha). I'm also the person who when in a store, any store, gets stopped by other shoppers and asked my opinion about which of these measuring cups is better (true story while in Ross Dress for Less) or while in the grocery store a man showed me a recipe he was trying for the first time and needed cannellini beans and did I know about them. Or what wine goes best with beef stew? Stuff like that.
My most recent true story was about 2 weeks ago. I was in the Le Creuset Outlet store looking for a new cork puller, and a man and his son came in looking for a particular kitchen gadget. The store clerk - a mere youngster - didn't know what he was talking about, and since I am also an avid eavesdropper, I excused my busybodyness and told him he needed a mandolin. He wanted to make long shreds of zucchini to substitute for pasta, and since I own two mandolins of my own and make a great sauteed zucchini dish using the same technique, I knew EXACTLY what he needed.
I even told the guy the best store to purchase his mandolin from (and it wasn't the store we were in). Note: I should give credit to Mr. itsme for the zucchini recipe since he was the first in our house to do this.
So, I've narrowed it down to working (part-time because I will be on the road a lot) to a kitchen gadget store like Williams Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, Home Goods, etc. (think of the discounts I'll get) or some kind of specialty food boutique like (I like the word boutique) Harry & David or Rocky Mountain Candy Factory, etc. I think I'd even like being a Food Demonstrator at Costco, at least I could dish (pun intended) with other members about food.
No, wait, I have another idea. I loved the movie 'You've got mail' (even though the grammar usage is horrible in that title), I'll be a Meg Ryan-type and have a bookstore like the "Little Shop Around the Corner" that gets run out of business by the big bad big box book store . . . oh, maybe that's a bad idea afterall.
Well, at least I still have a few years to nail it down.
Except for a summer working in retail sales (NO THANK YOU EVER AGAIN) libraries have been my life. Still, I don't want to retire from my University library to work again in a library, probably a public library, for less money. And probably for people less experienced than me. (Sounds snooty, I know). I have a comfortable, non-threatening look about me, kinda like a friendly-faced Golden Retriever without the lolling tongue and wagging tail, although I have been known to drool occasionally.
I love to bake, cook (I read cookbooks for pleasure), entertain, and make guests comfortable in my home (hmmm, sounds a little Geisha-like; alas, I'm over 21, too old to be a Geisha). I'm also the person who when in a store, any store, gets stopped by other shoppers and asked my opinion about which of these measuring cups is better (true story while in Ross Dress for Less) or while in the grocery store a man showed me a recipe he was trying for the first time and needed cannellini beans and did I know about them. Or what wine goes best with beef stew? Stuff like that.
My most recent true story was about 2 weeks ago. I was in the Le Creuset Outlet store looking for a new cork puller, and a man and his son came in looking for a particular kitchen gadget. The store clerk - a mere youngster - didn't know what he was talking about, and since I am also an avid eavesdropper, I excused my busybodyness and told him he needed a mandolin. He wanted to make long shreds of zucchini to substitute for pasta, and since I own two mandolins of my own and make a great sauteed zucchini dish using the same technique, I knew EXACTLY what he needed.
I even told the guy the best store to purchase his mandolin from (and it wasn't the store we were in). Note: I should give credit to Mr. itsme for the zucchini recipe since he was the first in our house to do this.
So, I've narrowed it down to working (part-time because I will be on the road a lot) to a kitchen gadget store like Williams Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, Home Goods, etc. (think of the discounts I'll get) or some kind of specialty food boutique like (I like the word boutique) Harry & David or Rocky Mountain Candy Factory, etc. I think I'd even like being a Food Demonstrator at Costco, at least I could dish (pun intended) with other members about food.
No, wait, I have another idea. I loved the movie 'You've got mail' (even though the grammar usage is horrible in that title), I'll be a Meg Ryan-type and have a bookstore like the "Little Shop Around the Corner" that gets run out of business by the big bad big box book store . . . oh, maybe that's a bad idea afterall.
Well, at least I still have a few years to nail it down.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Happy Dia de los Muertos!
We passed a local Catholic cemetery this afternoon and it was packed with cars and people. The whole place was alive with color and movement. Family members were sprucing up gravesites, decorating them with flowers - primarily large, bright flowers such as marigolds and chrysanthemums - setting out and enjoying a picnic, and interacting socially with other family and community members who were also gathered at the cemetery. The meals prepared for these picnics are sumptuous, usually featuring meat dishes in spicy sauces, cookies, chocolate, and sugary confections in a variety of animal or skull shapes, as well as a special egg-batter bread called “Pan de Muerto” (Bread of the Dead). Similar to the Mardi Gras’ King Cake, it is considered good luck to be the one who bites into the plastic toy skeleton hidden by the baker in each rounded loaf. It is also traditional to remember the departed by telling stories about them.
I took the time to remember my late older brother Ed who passed away 2 years ago today. Too young to die for sure, and still greatly missed by me. I also remembered my Mom who passed away 2 years ago this January to come. Some might consider 76 ‘young’ but she had been ill for so long and had suffered enough, it was a blessing that she died in her sleep as she had wished. This time of year was her favorite and I am just like her in that way.
If I could tell one story about each of them it would be these, first my brother: one Saturday, husband and I went to my brother’s house for dinner and just hanging out. They (husband & brother) decided to chop some wood for a fire. Pretty soon they came rushing into the house to say that Ed had to go to the ER right away. Husband drives him there. When the Dr asks my brother how so many splinters got embedded into his hand, he replies “we were chopping firewood,” and husband chimes in “with our hands.” Later, my SIL and I learned that a bottle of Jack Daniels was involved in the wood chopping.
For my Mom: she was an enthusiastic Grandmother. During high school, many moons ago, my oldest nephew Richard played the Lead in the school’s production of Cyrano (de Bergerac), huge, ugly nose and all. So while Cyrano is hiding in the bushes feeding words of love to Christian the Nobleman who in turn recites them to the lovely Roxane, Mom gets involved, and with tears in her eyes she unconsciously sobs “Oh Richard!” out loud. My nephew turns beat red and says “Grandma!!!!!!” and the entire audience roared.
Cheers!
I took the time to remember my late older brother Ed who passed away 2 years ago today. Too young to die for sure, and still greatly missed by me. I also remembered my Mom who passed away 2 years ago this January to come. Some might consider 76 ‘young’ but she had been ill for so long and had suffered enough, it was a blessing that she died in her sleep as she had wished. This time of year was her favorite and I am just like her in that way.
If I could tell one story about each of them it would be these, first my brother: one Saturday, husband and I went to my brother’s house for dinner and just hanging out. They (husband & brother) decided to chop some wood for a fire. Pretty soon they came rushing into the house to say that Ed had to go to the ER right away. Husband drives him there. When the Dr asks my brother how so many splinters got embedded into his hand, he replies “we were chopping firewood,” and husband chimes in “with our hands.” Later, my SIL and I learned that a bottle of Jack Daniels was involved in the wood chopping.
For my Mom: she was an enthusiastic Grandmother. During high school, many moons ago, my oldest nephew Richard played the Lead in the school’s production of Cyrano (de Bergerac), huge, ugly nose and all. So while Cyrano is hiding in the bushes feeding words of love to Christian the Nobleman who in turn recites them to the lovely Roxane, Mom gets involved, and with tears in her eyes she unconsciously sobs “Oh Richard!” out loud. My nephew turns beat red and says “Grandma!!!!!!” and the entire audience roared.
Cheers!
Friday, October 09, 2009
Congratulations President Barack Obama
The Norwegian Nobel Committee has awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize to President Obama.
And, of course, the Republican Party is furious.
"The real question Americans are asking is, 'What has President Obama actually accomplished?'" reads a statement from the Republican National Committee. "It is unfortunate that the president's star power has outshined tireless advocates who have made real achievements working towards peace and human rights. One thing is certain -- President Obama won't be receiving any awards from Americans for job creation, fiscal responsibility, or backing up rhetoric with concrete action."
Their conclusion: the Nobel Prize is more burden than benefit for the White House and he should turn the prize down. Our President wins motivation to seek world peace and Republicans jeer. Why am I not surprised? It's bad for the President of the United States of America to speak to our children and encourage them to stay in school and to set goals. It's good for America to lose an Olympic bid, so good in fact, that Republicans applaud and celebrate America's loss. It's bad for the world community to respect our President (Obama), but good for world community to despise our President (Bush). It's bad for everyone when the President of the United States is honored with the most historically prestigious award recognized by both America and our global neighbors.
The prize was awarded "for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples;" a progressive holding of the meaning of "peace" if ever there ever was one. Even the Nobel Committee knew there would be criticism for their unanimous selection and stated “... this was primarily an award on his work on and commitment to nuclear disarmament – and his dialogue. Of course there will be criticism, because he hasn’t achieved his goals yet. It will take time, but this is a support.”
The Nobel Peace Prize is a tribute to the President but even more to our country, to all Americans. He was elected to office at a time when respect for this country was at an all-time low and went to work right away to restore our standing in the world. Any American who is not proud today is a Republican!
And, of course, the Republican Party is furious.
"The real question Americans are asking is, 'What has President Obama actually accomplished?'" reads a statement from the Republican National Committee. "It is unfortunate that the president's star power has outshined tireless advocates who have made real achievements working towards peace and human rights. One thing is certain -- President Obama won't be receiving any awards from Americans for job creation, fiscal responsibility, or backing up rhetoric with concrete action."
Their conclusion: the Nobel Prize is more burden than benefit for the White House and he should turn the prize down. Our President wins motivation to seek world peace and Republicans jeer. Why am I not surprised? It's bad for the President of the United States of America to speak to our children and encourage them to stay in school and to set goals. It's good for America to lose an Olympic bid, so good in fact, that Republicans applaud and celebrate America's loss. It's bad for the world community to respect our President (Obama), but good for world community to despise our President (Bush). It's bad for everyone when the President of the United States is honored with the most historically prestigious award recognized by both America and our global neighbors.
The prize was awarded "for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples;" a progressive holding of the meaning of "peace" if ever there ever was one. Even the Nobel Committee knew there would be criticism for their unanimous selection and stated “... this was primarily an award on his work on and commitment to nuclear disarmament – and his dialogue. Of course there will be criticism, because he hasn’t achieved his goals yet. It will take time, but this is a support.”
The Nobel Peace Prize is a tribute to the President but even more to our country, to all Americans. He was elected to office at a time when respect for this country was at an all-time low and went to work right away to restore our standing in the world. Any American who is not proud today is a Republican!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Today is My Birthday
The Benefits of Being 55 :
(read somewhere while surfing the net)
You realize that the age of 55 is young and not a near death experience.
You don't have to worry about body parts falling because they are already there.
You realize that worrying just takes away your precious time because it doesn't change anything.
You don't allow people to rent space in your head.
You realize that your weaknesses gave you your strengths.
You realize this is "me" time and I have the rest of my life to enjoy it.
You can see the distant horizon clearer than when you were in your twenties.
You can still think like a 25 yr old but now you can apply wisdom.
You understand knowledge is power.
You believe stronger than ever that beauty comes from within.
You can get more attention because the youngins think you need it.
You can use the excuse that you are tired and get away with it.
If you forget something, blame it on the age.
If you make mistakes, blame it on the age.
You realized that turning forty was actually young.
You realize that you are considered a "youngin" by those older than you.
You realize that Franklin Roosevelt had it right when he said "You have nothing to fear but fear itself."
You have the option in many companies and government agencies to retire from working if you chose (YES, today in fact).
You understand what "life is a journey, enjoy the ride" really means.
You search for something more meaningful than money.
(read somewhere while surfing the net)
You realize that the age of 55 is young and not a near death experience.
You don't have to worry about body parts falling because they are already there.
You realize that worrying just takes away your precious time because it doesn't change anything.
You don't allow people to rent space in your head.
You realize that your weaknesses gave you your strengths.
You realize this is "me" time and I have the rest of my life to enjoy it.
You can see the distant horizon clearer than when you were in your twenties.
You can still think like a 25 yr old but now you can apply wisdom.
You understand knowledge is power.
You believe stronger than ever that beauty comes from within.
You can get more attention because the youngins think you need it.
You can use the excuse that you are tired and get away with it.
If you forget something, blame it on the age.
If you make mistakes, blame it on the age.
You realized that turning forty was actually young.
You realize that you are considered a "youngin" by those older than you.
You realize that Franklin Roosevelt had it right when he said "You have nothing to fear but fear itself."
You have the option in many companies and government agencies to retire from working if you chose (YES, today in fact).
You understand what "life is a journey, enjoy the ride" really means.
You search for something more meaningful than money.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
County Fairs
When I share with people that I am an avid supporter of County fairs, I usually get a puzzled look. To me, County fairs celebrate tradition and hardwork in a time when ‘instant gratification’ is a way of life. The Santa Cruz County Fair, in Watsonville, CA is a special event and I’ve been a participant for about 10 years. Not only is it where I live, it’s small and quaint, just the way a County fair should be.
There truly is something for everyone: carnival rides for kids (little & big), farm animals raised by 4-H Clubs from the four surrounding counties that demonstrate skills and talents far fewer kids are interested in these days; it’s a place for local businesses to display their wares and services, and exhibits that showcase locally grown fruits, veggies & flowers to help us better understand the importance of agriculture – and why we must never allow it to disappear. It’s about silly-looking clowns making balloon animals and zipping around in tiny cars or scooters. It’s about the tractor parade. It’s about color guards proudly carrying flags. It’s about all ages coming together to have a good time. It’s about community pride, tradition, and a sense of place. It’s about our agricultural heritage and our urban legacy, mixing new visions with old traditions. The fair is also a celebration of true community and an exemplar of how we can live on this planet sustainably, rationally and harmoniously
Every year I enter some of my baked goods and I try and do something different each year. I won three 1st Place Blue Ribbons and one 2nd Place Red Ribbon this year (it’s all about winning ribbons for me!!!) I took first place with my chocolate chip cookies, my Meyer lemon bundt cake, and my chocolate cupcakes. My banana nut bread netted me the second place ribbon. And I’m already thinking about what I’ll bake for next year.
The County fair is a place to go for a break from the daily grind. Let’s hope it never loses that appeal.
There truly is something for everyone: carnival rides for kids (little & big), farm animals raised by 4-H Clubs from the four surrounding counties that demonstrate skills and talents far fewer kids are interested in these days; it’s a place for local businesses to display their wares and services, and exhibits that showcase locally grown fruits, veggies & flowers to help us better understand the importance of agriculture – and why we must never allow it to disappear. It’s about silly-looking clowns making balloon animals and zipping around in tiny cars or scooters. It’s about the tractor parade. It’s about color guards proudly carrying flags. It’s about all ages coming together to have a good time. It’s about community pride, tradition, and a sense of place. It’s about our agricultural heritage and our urban legacy, mixing new visions with old traditions. The fair is also a celebration of true community and an exemplar of how we can live on this planet sustainably, rationally and harmoniously
Every year I enter some of my baked goods and I try and do something different each year. I won three 1st Place Blue Ribbons and one 2nd Place Red Ribbon this year (it’s all about winning ribbons for me!!!) I took first place with my chocolate chip cookies, my Meyer lemon bundt cake, and my chocolate cupcakes. My banana nut bread netted me the second place ribbon. And I’m already thinking about what I’ll bake for next year.
The County fair is a place to go for a break from the daily grind. Let’s hope it never loses that appeal.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
National Outburst Month
September has been interesting, hasn't it?
First Republican Congressclown Joe Wilson calling the President a liar during the Joint Congressional Address, then Serena Williams threatening bodily injury to a line judge at the U.S. Open, and now Kanye West throwing a hissy and interrupting Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech on the MTV Video Music Awards. Just what is up with becoming so overly emotional and downright rude in public? Let me preface that by saying that I believe Serena and Kanye definitely had spontaneous outbursts, but I think ol Joe planned his.
It’s ironic to me that so many people are outraged by what each of them have done. I mean COME ON, we love rude in this country! Don't we? Reality TV is all about the loudest and rudest ‘Bad Asses’ the networks can find. Most people LOVE this stuff which is why network TV is overrun with reality-type programming and also the reason I no longer watch network TV.
Maybe it’s my personal bias but I partly fault the social networks like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and the rest. We live in an age of total disclosure and total expression, with very little concern for the feelings of others. Being able to comment about others from a distance and with anonymity is the Internet’s hallmark, as well as its poison. Gone is the Golden Rule, the idea that you should treat others how you wish to be treated. I think it all boils down to the three W’s (Wilson, Williams, and West) thinking that because they are successful they can get away with anything. They already know that if they have an outburst in public, there's a certain element of their fan base that expect it, i.e., “that’s just Kanye being Kanye”and will probably love them for it. That’s sad.
Kudos to Beyonce’s parents for raising her right.
First Republican Congressclown Joe Wilson calling the President a liar during the Joint Congressional Address, then Serena Williams threatening bodily injury to a line judge at the U.S. Open, and now Kanye West throwing a hissy and interrupting Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech on the MTV Video Music Awards. Just what is up with becoming so overly emotional and downright rude in public? Let me preface that by saying that I believe Serena and Kanye definitely had spontaneous outbursts, but I think ol Joe planned his.
It’s ironic to me that so many people are outraged by what each of them have done. I mean COME ON, we love rude in this country! Don't we? Reality TV is all about the loudest and rudest ‘Bad Asses’ the networks can find. Most people LOVE this stuff which is why network TV is overrun with reality-type programming and also the reason I no longer watch network TV.
Maybe it’s my personal bias but I partly fault the social networks like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and the rest. We live in an age of total disclosure and total expression, with very little concern for the feelings of others. Being able to comment about others from a distance and with anonymity is the Internet’s hallmark, as well as its poison. Gone is the Golden Rule, the idea that you should treat others how you wish to be treated. I think it all boils down to the three W’s (Wilson, Williams, and West) thinking that because they are successful they can get away with anything. They already know that if they have an outburst in public, there's a certain element of their fan base that expect it, i.e., “that’s just Kanye being Kanye”and will probably love them for it. That’s sad.
Kudos to Beyonce’s parents for raising her right.
Friday, September 11, 2009
September 11, 2001
What I wrote last year, I thought about it and I don't think I can do any better, so I'm re-playing it:
"Life-altering changes. I guess if you live long enough, it probably happens more than once. For me it was the assassinations of JFK, RFK, MLK, Jr., and the Challenger explosion. I will always remember where I was and what I was doing when I heard about or witnessed these events.
The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 were different.
While I didn’t have any family or friends die that day, I did have a friend, a Nurse, working in Manhattan who lived through the whole nightmare. At the University, we were deeply saddened when we learned that Alumni Jason Dahl, a 1980 Graduate in Aeronautical Engineering, was the Pilot and Captain of the crew of Flight 93, the plane that crashed in a field just outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
The overwhelming majority of casualties were ordinary people like you and me, including nationals from over 90 different countries. Let’s never forget that excluding the 19 hijackers, 2,974 people died in the attacks. Another 24 are missing and presumed dead.
Now, seven years have come and gone. In those years we moved on, we put 9/11 aside with all our other memories. Very briefly, we came together as a nation to help and comfort each other when we were all just human beings on common ground.
I hope on this tragic 7th Anniversary, we remember what is still good about our country and the innocent men, women and children who lost their lives. Let’s also remember the Heroes who responded to the emergency and the people who continue to sacrifice every day to help stop conflict around the world."
Amen.
"Life-altering changes. I guess if you live long enough, it probably happens more than once. For me it was the assassinations of JFK, RFK, MLK, Jr., and the Challenger explosion. I will always remember where I was and what I was doing when I heard about or witnessed these events.
The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 were different.
While I didn’t have any family or friends die that day, I did have a friend, a Nurse, working in Manhattan who lived through the whole nightmare. At the University, we were deeply saddened when we learned that Alumni Jason Dahl, a 1980 Graduate in Aeronautical Engineering, was the Pilot and Captain of the crew of Flight 93, the plane that crashed in a field just outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
The overwhelming majority of casualties were ordinary people like you and me, including nationals from over 90 different countries. Let’s never forget that excluding the 19 hijackers, 2,974 people died in the attacks. Another 24 are missing and presumed dead.
Now, seven years have come and gone. In those years we moved on, we put 9/11 aside with all our other memories. Very briefly, we came together as a nation to help and comfort each other when we were all just human beings on common ground.
I hope on this tragic 7th Anniversary, we remember what is still good about our country and the innocent men, women and children who lost their lives. Let’s also remember the Heroes who responded to the emergency and the people who continue to sacrifice every day to help stop conflict around the world."
Amen.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
09/09/09
While having my teeth cleaned this morning, my Hygienist and I had a conversation about the meaning of the abundance of nines in the date today. She had the advantage of course since I was on my lying on my back with one of those water-sucker-outers in my mouth, so I couldn't contribute much to the conversation.
Though technically there's nothing special about the symmetrical date, some concerned with the history and meaning of numbers ascribe powerful significance to 09/09/09. Still, many believe that this is the last day in the history of the human race. But at 9am this morning nothing happened, although there is still the possibility that the world could end at precisely 9pm of course, right after President Obama's health care speech. That would be one less thing to worry about.
Today does see the release of a Beatles computer game, as well as the release of their digitally remastered back catalogue (YES!) and the announcement of the new Apple iPod. The new animated feature film, "9," set in a post-apocalyptic world, will open in movie theatres today and American county clerks offer special $99 "09/09/09" wedding prices (wonder how much a divorce costs?) And isn't the number 999 just 666 turned upside down?
In the end, it's probably all a bunch a HOOEY. Some people are very good at looking for meaning and patterns in randomness – it's one of the reasons, some say, humans are such a successful species. But the price is that we see significance in things that aren't there at all.
See ya'll tomorrow. Maybe.
Though technically there's nothing special about the symmetrical date, some concerned with the history and meaning of numbers ascribe powerful significance to 09/09/09. Still, many believe that this is the last day in the history of the human race. But at 9am this morning nothing happened, although there is still the possibility that the world could end at precisely 9pm of course, right after President Obama's health care speech. That would be one less thing to worry about.
Today does see the release of a Beatles computer game, as well as the release of their digitally remastered back catalogue (YES!) and the announcement of the new Apple iPod. The new animated feature film, "9," set in a post-apocalyptic world, will open in movie theatres today and American county clerks offer special $99 "09/09/09" wedding prices (wonder how much a divorce costs?) And isn't the number 999 just 666 turned upside down?
In the end, it's probably all a bunch a HOOEY. Some people are very good at looking for meaning and patterns in randomness – it's one of the reasons, some say, humans are such a successful species. But the price is that we see significance in things that aren't there at all.
See ya'll tomorrow. Maybe.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Furlough Friday
I am spending my unpaid day off (the first of 2 this month) making brownies for my nephew's Fire Fighting Academy potluck on Saturday. Adam (my youngest brother's son) is attending a six month program in Monterey to become a Fire Fighter and will graduate on December 15th. Since June he's been spending weekends with us as it's a much shorter distance to Monterey from our house than his in Milpitas. We have enjoyed having (and spoiling) him. Mr. itsme & I take turns making his favorites for dinner each weekend. One weekend Mr. itsme BBQ'd and one time he made fajitas. Last, I made Beef Stroganoff. Tonight I'm making a chicken, artichoke, mushroom bake, served over quinoa.
I whipped up a big ol batch of brownies, loosely adapted from a recipe Ina Garten does, and they are now cooling. I also made a lemon bundt cake filled with fresh strawberries since that is one of the things Watsonville is known for, plus it will be good practice for next weekend when I turn in all my baking entries for the Santa Cruz County Fair (I expect lots of blue ribbons again this year).
Its a beautiful day on the coast of the Monterey Bay. The unusual heat we've been having has thankfully let up. I actually slept last night. I'll probably run some errands and do a little dead-heading in the front yard. Can't wait for Fall and apple & pumpkin season as well as the chillier weather!
I whipped up a big ol batch of brownies, loosely adapted from a recipe Ina Garten does, and they are now cooling. I also made a lemon bundt cake filled with fresh strawberries since that is one of the things Watsonville is known for, plus it will be good practice for next weekend when I turn in all my baking entries for the Santa Cruz County Fair (I expect lots of blue ribbons again this year).
Its a beautiful day on the coast of the Monterey Bay. The unusual heat we've been having has thankfully let up. I actually slept last night. I'll probably run some errands and do a little dead-heading in the front yard. Can't wait for Fall and apple & pumpkin season as well as the chillier weather!
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