It's 11:15 on New Year's Eve.
We are home alone.
But we just had a nice day, a really really nice day, and a lovely evening. An evening with layers of loveliness.
First, the day. We shopped for last bits for tomorrow's meal.
We cleaned up a bit.
I did my annual New Year's is coming throw away....Dug in a dug out and threw out. I always like the feeling of entering a new year with some room to breathe.
And then we got ourselves presentable ( or reasonably so) and took ourselves to our oldest son's house for their annual, growing, wonderful, warm and welcoming open house for New Year's Eve.
And we mingled and talked and enjoyed.
And we saw our son and his wife through the eyes of friends and neighbors who value them - as friends and neighbors.....as people of value....as people of great worth...as we know them to be, but as we are warmed in the heart to see others see them that way.
And I spent about 1/2 hour with the most delightful person I've met in a long long time. She is in the grade below my grandson. She is my absolute heart's delight. I honestly savored every minute of our conversation. And when she confided to me..."I don't even like hotdogs, but we go to this place, Johnny's Hot Dogs and I have to eat hot dogs there, they are so good!" and I was able to tell her that my Dad, Larry's Great-Grandfather actually BUILT the facade of that building, her eyes lit up, and I had my New Year's Eve. It was so darned cute I might never forget it.
Happy New Year - God Bless the Past - Go Prayerfully into the New.....trusting the God who has seen us through to now, will see us until "then". Thank you to all friends...old and young. We must bring love and friendship into the new year, as we have done before....being there for each other....friend and family.
Good night.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Part Four - Napa CA
Wed. 4 Nov
Despite frequent moves, we’ve slept well each night. Today we are awake about 7 AM to somewhat overcast skies. We are sure, though, that that will not interfere with the day’s itinerary of wine tasting for 4 or 5 hours! I went down to retrieve morning coffee in the beautiful dining room – tin ceilings unlike any I’ve seen, with the tin tiling featuring patterns and painted designs, extending down the walls a ways. The coffee has the slightest hint of perhaps almond and is delicious. I take some back to the room for Larry who is completing his morning ablutions. We love this old house with bulls eye cornices, gorgeous wood trim, chair rails actually not chair height but about eye level or higher and serving as display areas for various items. Built-ins so lovely. And I sit then, looking out the bay window at roses blooming along the white iron fences in front. As I sit and wait for Larry to be ready for breakfast, I take up and read a book placed there by the hosts, Mustard, Journey to Love by Jessel Miller. Sweet. I’ll need to read the subsequent books by the author.
Breakfast includes pitchers of water infused with lemons or with limes, a wide organic tea selection, yogurt, homemade granola, broiled grapefruit garnished with grapes and mint leaf. As Lar cannot eat grapefruit, they happily substituted a fresh fruit cup. Next we are served a frittata with dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts, homemade morning sunrise muffins and strawberry butter.
We were soon picked up by Carl, our wine tour guide and off we went. We were joined by a young couple, Justin and Rebecca from Salinas. I had had some concerns about tasting so much wine – wasn’t sure if I could hold my own yet still be discerning, so I had just a bit of trepidation. Carl reminded me of Doug Heffernan (King of Queens) with a terrific sense of humor, a vast knowledge of the area, and he seems to know all the right people!
We visited about 5 vineyards – my record keeping got careless as the day went on (!) and I discovered I do actually have a fairly decent palate for tasting, and no one, including me, got anywhere near “tipsy.” We began tasting at Frank Family Vineyards – we were not particularly impressed with any of their offerings, we did buy one bottle of chardonnay, and I felt this was the most pretentious of the stops.
At V. Sattui Winery (see videos and a terrific site showing the place which is really cool at http://www.vsattui.com/ ) we had Justin choose a special dessert to celebrate his 31st birthday which was that day, and he chose a tiramisu to share. V. Sattui has a rather overwhelming shop for buying pairings as well as other things including sandwiches. We bought sandwiches and beverages and sat outside chatting over a picnic lunch. After lunch we discovered that we didn’t have to compete with the hoards of tasters inside, but instead, we had access to the members-only cellar where we tasted some truly great wines, including a special $125 bottle! Rebecca was especially fond of their Gamay Rouge and when we tasted it, we found out why! We bought two bottles. Sattui was established 125 years ago by Vittorio Sattui, an Italian immigrant. They have a family tradition of making small lots of fine premium wines which have earned major awards in national competitions. They are located in St. Helena, CA and sell only direct to consumers.
On to the Sterling Vineyard which was a beautiful experience. (http://www.sterlingvineyards.com/OurWinery/PhotoGallery.aspx for spectacular photos). They have a cable tram in which you ride up the mountain over the vineyards, trees, and a spectacular view! The air is redolent with grape-pine-fresh and for once I have less fear than awe riding on one of those wobbly cars! They have a self guiding tour with stops along the way to sample various types of wines. We ordered about a case or more from Sterling.
Then to Hagafen Cellars, Napa. Quoting from their brochure: “ Hagafen Cellars brings together the elements of “Old Napa” style so often missing from today’s world of wine: a respect for lineage, knowledge of age-old customs for the crafting of wine, and superior releases that reveal a depth of character and a hallmark of place. Wine should be about passion and celebrating the good things of life with relatives and friends.” Owned and operated by Irit and Ernie Weir, the winery was founded in 1979 and the first commercially released vintage was harvested in 1980. In the ensuing years, they have slowly grown from a small partnership producing wine with grapes from Winery Lake Vineyard, then owned by Rene DeRosa, to a well established and respected winery. Since 1980, their wines have been served on numerous occasions at the White House to visiting foreign dignitaries. They take care to interfere as little as possible with the soil, creating a balance that minimizes the chemical and erosion impact via the use of modern farming techniques while maintaining the age-old wisdom of balance and the traditional values of conservation and land stewardship. A little place, one receives special, personal attention and it is with a feeling of peace and oneness with the land that the winery welcomes you. Beautiful gardens are mulched with grape seeds, and I have to think that the “green-ness” of this vineyard can be felt when you visit.
Mario Andretti’s was the last vineyard on our tour. We liked that stop very much, the employees were very down-to-earth, and the wines are good. More ordering!
On the way back to the BandB we got a tour through Carl (Doug)’s neighborhood where points of interest were named – most of which are written in illegible notes in my journal…..so you won’t hear them here! I do recall that they included some extremely highly thought of restaurants known by the chic across the world. Sorry…just didn’t get it down.
We arrived back at our home-away-from-home at about 5:15 PM – that’s about 7 hours of wine tasting. Fortunately, the Phillies game (World Series) was still on, so Lar sat himself in front of the TV in the gathering room and for dinner we imbibed in the wine and cheese and crackers, and then some tea and a sinful chocolate cake laid out in the dining room. We shared some time with a couple from Cape Town South Africa who own a vineyard there. I tried to remember the name, but all I recall is that it had been taken from a long Afrikaans name and shortened. No idea. Perhaps, when doing a wine tour it would be best to take along a tape recorder…not a pad and pen! They were nice people and the wife stumbled upon the fact that we have a dear friend in Cape Town so she spent a good deal of time convincing Lar that we do, actually, need to go there. It was funny, she sounded so much like Pat (friend in So. Africa) and she was using very much the same arguments Pat does. Who knows, that might make a good journal some day. (hint, Lar).
Thursday 5 Nov
Although I was fully expecting a morning headache, I felt great when I awoke. Breakfast featured granola, yogurt, fresh pineapple, and peach-and-cream cheese French toast and coffee. Then we packed up the car and were off to Buffalos to send some of the wine we had purchased, along with a box of clothing we would not need in Hawaii. We bought some stamps for our postcards, got them mailed and we were on the road – 29 South, under foreboding skies of grey storm clouds.
Despite frequent moves, we’ve slept well each night. Today we are awake about 7 AM to somewhat overcast skies. We are sure, though, that that will not interfere with the day’s itinerary of wine tasting for 4 or 5 hours! I went down to retrieve morning coffee in the beautiful dining room – tin ceilings unlike any I’ve seen, with the tin tiling featuring patterns and painted designs, extending down the walls a ways. The coffee has the slightest hint of perhaps almond and is delicious. I take some back to the room for Larry who is completing his morning ablutions. We love this old house with bulls eye cornices, gorgeous wood trim, chair rails actually not chair height but about eye level or higher and serving as display areas for various items. Built-ins so lovely. And I sit then, looking out the bay window at roses blooming along the white iron fences in front. As I sit and wait for Larry to be ready for breakfast, I take up and read a book placed there by the hosts, Mustard, Journey to Love by Jessel Miller. Sweet. I’ll need to read the subsequent books by the author.
Breakfast includes pitchers of water infused with lemons or with limes, a wide organic tea selection, yogurt, homemade granola, broiled grapefruit garnished with grapes and mint leaf. As Lar cannot eat grapefruit, they happily substituted a fresh fruit cup. Next we are served a frittata with dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts, homemade morning sunrise muffins and strawberry butter.
We were soon picked up by Carl, our wine tour guide and off we went. We were joined by a young couple, Justin and Rebecca from Salinas. I had had some concerns about tasting so much wine – wasn’t sure if I could hold my own yet still be discerning, so I had just a bit of trepidation. Carl reminded me of Doug Heffernan (King of Queens) with a terrific sense of humor, a vast knowledge of the area, and he seems to know all the right people!
We visited about 5 vineyards – my record keeping got careless as the day went on (!) and I discovered I do actually have a fairly decent palate for tasting, and no one, including me, got anywhere near “tipsy.” We began tasting at Frank Family Vineyards – we were not particularly impressed with any of their offerings, we did buy one bottle of chardonnay, and I felt this was the most pretentious of the stops.
At V. Sattui Winery (see videos and a terrific site showing the place which is really cool at http://www.vsattui.com/ ) we had Justin choose a special dessert to celebrate his 31st birthday which was that day, and he chose a tiramisu to share. V. Sattui has a rather overwhelming shop for buying pairings as well as other things including sandwiches. We bought sandwiches and beverages and sat outside chatting over a picnic lunch. After lunch we discovered that we didn’t have to compete with the hoards of tasters inside, but instead, we had access to the members-only cellar where we tasted some truly great wines, including a special $125 bottle! Rebecca was especially fond of their Gamay Rouge and when we tasted it, we found out why! We bought two bottles. Sattui was established 125 years ago by Vittorio Sattui, an Italian immigrant. They have a family tradition of making small lots of fine premium wines which have earned major awards in national competitions. They are located in St. Helena, CA and sell only direct to consumers.
On to the Sterling Vineyard which was a beautiful experience. (http://www.sterlingvineyards.com/OurWinery/PhotoGallery.aspx for spectacular photos). They have a cable tram in which you ride up the mountain over the vineyards, trees, and a spectacular view! The air is redolent with grape-pine-fresh and for once I have less fear than awe riding on one of those wobbly cars! They have a self guiding tour with stops along the way to sample various types of wines. We ordered about a case or more from Sterling.
Then to Hagafen Cellars, Napa. Quoting from their brochure: “ Hagafen Cellars brings together the elements of “Old Napa” style so often missing from today’s world of wine: a respect for lineage, knowledge of age-old customs for the crafting of wine, and superior releases that reveal a depth of character and a hallmark of place. Wine should be about passion and celebrating the good things of life with relatives and friends.” Owned and operated by Irit and Ernie Weir, the winery was founded in 1979 and the first commercially released vintage was harvested in 1980. In the ensuing years, they have slowly grown from a small partnership producing wine with grapes from Winery Lake Vineyard, then owned by Rene DeRosa, to a well established and respected winery. Since 1980, their wines have been served on numerous occasions at the White House to visiting foreign dignitaries. They take care to interfere as little as possible with the soil, creating a balance that minimizes the chemical and erosion impact via the use of modern farming techniques while maintaining the age-old wisdom of balance and the traditional values of conservation and land stewardship. A little place, one receives special, personal attention and it is with a feeling of peace and oneness with the land that the winery welcomes you. Beautiful gardens are mulched with grape seeds, and I have to think that the “green-ness” of this vineyard can be felt when you visit.
Mario Andretti’s was the last vineyard on our tour. We liked that stop very much, the employees were very down-to-earth, and the wines are good. More ordering!
On the way back to the BandB we got a tour through Carl (Doug)’s neighborhood where points of interest were named – most of which are written in illegible notes in my journal…..so you won’t hear them here! I do recall that they included some extremely highly thought of restaurants known by the chic across the world. Sorry…just didn’t get it down.
We arrived back at our home-away-from-home at about 5:15 PM – that’s about 7 hours of wine tasting. Fortunately, the Phillies game (World Series) was still on, so Lar sat himself in front of the TV in the gathering room and for dinner we imbibed in the wine and cheese and crackers, and then some tea and a sinful chocolate cake laid out in the dining room. We shared some time with a couple from Cape Town South Africa who own a vineyard there. I tried to remember the name, but all I recall is that it had been taken from a long Afrikaans name and shortened. No idea. Perhaps, when doing a wine tour it would be best to take along a tape recorder…not a pad and pen! They were nice people and the wife stumbled upon the fact that we have a dear friend in Cape Town so she spent a good deal of time convincing Lar that we do, actually, need to go there. It was funny, she sounded so much like Pat (friend in So. Africa) and she was using very much the same arguments Pat does. Who knows, that might make a good journal some day. (hint, Lar).
Thursday 5 Nov
Although I was fully expecting a morning headache, I felt great when I awoke. Breakfast featured granola, yogurt, fresh pineapple, and peach-and-cream cheese French toast and coffee. Then we packed up the car and were off to Buffalos to send some of the wine we had purchased, along with a box of clothing we would not need in Hawaii. We bought some stamps for our postcards, got them mailed and we were on the road – 29 South, under foreboding skies of grey storm clouds.
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Thursday, December 24, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
What's Black and Red, White All Over and Worth Its Weight in Gold?
A wonderful neighbor, with a heart of gold and a snow blower! God Bless Him! He saved us hours and many a muscle ache!
Christmas In the Heart
If over 20" of snow doesn't help put Christmas in your heart, well....then....I don't know what will!
It was forecast by the weather men, it was prayed for by the kids (and the shovel sellers!) but who knew we could still get this old-fashioned kind of snow?!
It is absolutely beautiful, it is overwhelming, and it's a shame to have come 6 days before Christmas because around here it probably means we have a "grey Christmas" but still.
Are my old bones looking forward to getting out there with a shovel? No. For several reasons. I love being snowed in! I love the quiet that snow brings with it. I love the sense of just the two of us being holed up, warm and safe - no place to rush to - no outside obligations. It's a hold-over I am sure to the snow days of my childhood. A sense of God actually being in on me getting away with something! But it still holds delight for me. Shoveling is a sign that the world is still out there. That there are still places sitting out there to which we must, eventually rush to. Where duty calls. Cracking open the shell of peace, quiet and safety.
Anyway, I've got a couple of pictures from last night, will have a few more from today's adventures, and I am thankful for the beauty I am viewing outside the office window. Please, let the WHITE last until Christmas!
It was forecast by the weather men, it was prayed for by the kids (and the shovel sellers!) but who knew we could still get this old-fashioned kind of snow?!
It is absolutely beautiful, it is overwhelming, and it's a shame to have come 6 days before Christmas because around here it probably means we have a "grey Christmas" but still.
Are my old bones looking forward to getting out there with a shovel? No. For several reasons. I love being snowed in! I love the quiet that snow brings with it. I love the sense of just the two of us being holed up, warm and safe - no place to rush to - no outside obligations. It's a hold-over I am sure to the snow days of my childhood. A sense of God actually being in on me getting away with something! But it still holds delight for me. Shoveling is a sign that the world is still out there. That there are still places sitting out there to which we must, eventually rush to. Where duty calls. Cracking open the shell of peace, quiet and safety.
Anyway, I've got a couple of pictures from last night, will have a few more from today's adventures, and I am thankful for the beauty I am viewing outside the office window. Please, let the WHITE last until Christmas!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
California - Napa - 2009 Part III
The ferry ride was relaxing up on deck in the warm sun. I am beginning to appreciate that there are folks who actually know what it is like to have sun in winter! Landing on the island was quite a thrill. I had forgotten about the Indian occupation during the 60’s but as soon as I saw the building with “This is Indian Land” graffitied on it, it all came back. We listened to a welcome talk by a Ranger and then proceeded inside where we watched a really good movie on the history of the island. I learned a lot I’d never known and it was also nice to just sit in the cool, cave-like room and listen. An old physical ailment had flared up, and I was most comfortable just sitting for a bit. I walked a bit, but Lar continued on up to the cells, while I sat down the hill on a bench and stared both out to the water and in to the remnants of an old building that had served as an officers’ social club and had had other purposes as well. I could hear the music of the day, hear the rustling of the dresses, hear the tinkling of ice in glasses. Alcatraz is an island with a lot of ghosts, and you feel them at every turn.
When Larry had rejoined me, we took a few more pictures and got in line for the return ferry. This time we sat below deck and people watched. Back at the Wharf we had an hour and one half to kill until we would be picked up and taken back to the hotel. It wasn’t far, but I was still not up to walking. We noticed Houston’s across the street and crossed the busy street to see if we could get a drink and a snack while we waited. As we were not having dinner, we were quickly whisked away from their front patio dining area and invited to sit out back. I liked it ever so much better back there! It was like a little grotto in the city, peaceful. We got special attention from the manager/bar tender and enjoyed some local beer – Anchor Steam – and an appetizer of spinach and avocado dip, chips, salsa and sour cream. The dip was piping hot and we couldn’t have enjoyed our wait any better.
It was about time for our bus, so we ambled back and sat to wait. A teenaged girl in her work uniform approached and asked if she could borrow one of our phones to make a call home for a ride. Isn’t it a shame to know that we were immediately on guard and suspicious? There was a time when that wouldn’t have happened. Anyway, I dialed her grandmother’s number for her and she did, indeed need a ride and that was that. Just a reminder of where we are going, and how much I’d like to take a ride back in time to a less suspicious, more trusting era.
Our bus finally arrived and we were back at our hotel, taking a rest in the air conditioning before venturing out for dinner. I fell asleep and could not be revived, so Larry went out and bought salads and a sandwich from Boudins, came back and was able to see the Phillies win this particular World Series game. He called home to tell our daughter in law Colleen to tone down her celebrating as we could hear her from California! We discovered Julia (7 year old) was suffering from the swine flu. It didn’t sound as if she had it too bad, but it did make us worry.
Tuesday 3 November
Since I'd had a bout of physical discomfort yesterday, we decided to forgo the sunrise on the Wharf plan, and instead, slept in until folks at home were slaving away! Great comfort, that feeling! We wasted away, reading, drinking really nasty in-room coffee, and I ironed some of our "rolled so they wouldn't wrinkle" clothing. Beautiful warm sun was streaming into our room as we dressed and then repacked for our road trip to Napa.
Today we went next door to I Hop for breakfast. We were served by a gentleman from the Philippines named Bill. We chatted at length with him and one thing he said stuck with us. "The most valuable thing the Americans have given us is the idea of education." As we spoke with him, it made us think of our young friend Mike who has just moved to the area, and the fact that we hadn't discovered how to reach him. We would have liked to have at least said hello. Maybe next time. Walking back to the hotel we turned our faces to the warmth of the sun. We are looking forward to more of that!
The drive was made easy thanks to "Pete" and we soon found ourselves in Napa. As we were right in front, we decided to make an early stop at our B&B the Hennissey House and check on our reservations. We received such a warm welcome from "Jenny" who guided me to the nearest "facilities" and then proceeded to offer advice, maps, and all sorts of information. And then she said she could make our room available immediately which was a very welcome surprise. We moved in a few things and at Jenny's suggestion, made our dinner reservations at one of the nearly dozen recommended restaurants. We had chosen Pearl. Then we left for the Oxbow Open Market to have lunch. We ate at Taylor's. They feature all natural, "humanely grown" meats and other food items. Lar reported his burger to be "the best ever" and my awesome veggie burger on whole grain bun was delicious. Then we strolled through the market and I was desperately wishing I could actually shop! Stalls of wondrous olive oils and presses, tasting of the oils, antiques, meats, organic produce, organic ice cream......Wait!....ice cream? Of course we can't pass that particular stall. Lar had to try some. He chose a small, delicious, rich pumpkin flavor. It was truly yummy, but it took a long time to digest and he still tasted it hours later.
Although we were having an official tour tomorrow, we took a leisurely drive through the vineyards on our own and really relaxed. Gorgeous vines, some with leaves of deep burgundies and cherry reds, and vineyard names some of which we knew. It was so reminiscent of the movie Sideways - we've watched it numerous times.
Our drive back to the B&B was hysterical! "Pete" somehow decided he should take us into an apartment complex and then refused to give us directions out! Kept saying, "turn right into ..... apartment complex." We did it once, but he kept saying "turn right" "turn right" "turn right" and after we'd driven in a complete circle within their parking area, we decided we just might be on our own! “Recalculating.”
Our room was so comfortable, featuring a working fireplace, canopied bed, small sitting area with comfy chairs; we had no urgency to leave. We each took a chair, read and chatted until I was drowsy. I lay down for about 10 minutes, while Lar continued to read. In a little while we got ready and went down stairs to wine and cheese. We enjoyed the red (forgot to write it down) and nice cheeses, grapes and crackers. Our hostess insisted we also try a white which was, to us, very unforgettable. In fact, neither of us drank more than a sip.
Fellow travelers were two young couples, one an intern and his wife from Manhattan (originally from CA) and the other an EMT, formerly a police officer and his wife now living in Iowa, where they had relocated for the wife’s job. They were bright, positive professionals and the conversation was lively. Medicine, crime, education - all that and more was covered. They talked about their travel abroad and about the fact that they firmly believe that medicine in the U. S. is the best, overall, in the world. We truly enjoyed their company and the manner in which they all four were starting life (so young!) in such a positive manner. When it was time to leave for our dinner reservations, we said an almost reluctant goodbye.
Pearl! What a taste sensation awaited us. As we entered the tiny restaurant we were welcomed by an anteroom full of tables dedicated to Day of the Dead. We could tell immediately that this would be a family-full, intimate experience. My dinner consisted of Thai chicken soup with curry and cream....omg! It was so good. Then soft polenta, roasted tomatoes and glazed vegetables. I have no words for the perfection of this meal. Lar enjoyed halibut on a bed of chard and black beans. Wonderful! Our delightfully sweet server hugged me as we departed, and when I said "muchas gracious" I could not have meant it more.
We pulled out things we would need from the trunk of the car and went in to our room where port and chocolates were awaiting us, and quiet music filled the corners and slowly filtered down upon us. No TV might sound a bit frightening, but it can be so good for the soul.
When Larry had rejoined me, we took a few more pictures and got in line for the return ferry. This time we sat below deck and people watched. Back at the Wharf we had an hour and one half to kill until we would be picked up and taken back to the hotel. It wasn’t far, but I was still not up to walking. We noticed Houston’s across the street and crossed the busy street to see if we could get a drink and a snack while we waited. As we were not having dinner, we were quickly whisked away from their front patio dining area and invited to sit out back. I liked it ever so much better back there! It was like a little grotto in the city, peaceful. We got special attention from the manager/bar tender and enjoyed some local beer – Anchor Steam – and an appetizer of spinach and avocado dip, chips, salsa and sour cream. The dip was piping hot and we couldn’t have enjoyed our wait any better.
It was about time for our bus, so we ambled back and sat to wait. A teenaged girl in her work uniform approached and asked if she could borrow one of our phones to make a call home for a ride. Isn’t it a shame to know that we were immediately on guard and suspicious? There was a time when that wouldn’t have happened. Anyway, I dialed her grandmother’s number for her and she did, indeed need a ride and that was that. Just a reminder of where we are going, and how much I’d like to take a ride back in time to a less suspicious, more trusting era.
Our bus finally arrived and we were back at our hotel, taking a rest in the air conditioning before venturing out for dinner. I fell asleep and could not be revived, so Larry went out and bought salads and a sandwich from Boudins, came back and was able to see the Phillies win this particular World Series game. He called home to tell our daughter in law Colleen to tone down her celebrating as we could hear her from California! We discovered Julia (7 year old) was suffering from the swine flu. It didn’t sound as if she had it too bad, but it did make us worry.
Tuesday 3 November
Since I'd had a bout of physical discomfort yesterday, we decided to forgo the sunrise on the Wharf plan, and instead, slept in until folks at home were slaving away! Great comfort, that feeling! We wasted away, reading, drinking really nasty in-room coffee, and I ironed some of our "rolled so they wouldn't wrinkle" clothing. Beautiful warm sun was streaming into our room as we dressed and then repacked for our road trip to Napa.
Today we went next door to I Hop for breakfast. We were served by a gentleman from the Philippines named Bill. We chatted at length with him and one thing he said stuck with us. "The most valuable thing the Americans have given us is the idea of education." As we spoke with him, it made us think of our young friend Mike who has just moved to the area, and the fact that we hadn't discovered how to reach him. We would have liked to have at least said hello. Maybe next time. Walking back to the hotel we turned our faces to the warmth of the sun. We are looking forward to more of that!
The drive was made easy thanks to "Pete" and we soon found ourselves in Napa. As we were right in front, we decided to make an early stop at our B&B the Hennissey House and check on our reservations. We received such a warm welcome from "Jenny" who guided me to the nearest "facilities" and then proceeded to offer advice, maps, and all sorts of information. And then she said she could make our room available immediately which was a very welcome surprise. We moved in a few things and at Jenny's suggestion, made our dinner reservations at one of the nearly dozen recommended restaurants. We had chosen Pearl. Then we left for the Oxbow Open Market to have lunch. We ate at Taylor's. They feature all natural, "humanely grown" meats and other food items. Lar reported his burger to be "the best ever" and my awesome veggie burger on whole grain bun was delicious. Then we strolled through the market and I was desperately wishing I could actually shop! Stalls of wondrous olive oils and presses, tasting of the oils, antiques, meats, organic produce, organic ice cream......Wait!....ice cream? Of course we can't pass that particular stall. Lar had to try some. He chose a small, delicious, rich pumpkin flavor. It was truly yummy, but it took a long time to digest and he still tasted it hours later.
Although we were having an official tour tomorrow, we took a leisurely drive through the vineyards on our own and really relaxed. Gorgeous vines, some with leaves of deep burgundies and cherry reds, and vineyard names some of which we knew. It was so reminiscent of the movie Sideways - we've watched it numerous times.
Our drive back to the B&B was hysterical! "Pete" somehow decided he should take us into an apartment complex and then refused to give us directions out! Kept saying, "turn right into ..... apartment complex." We did it once, but he kept saying "turn right" "turn right" "turn right" and after we'd driven in a complete circle within their parking area, we decided we just might be on our own! “Recalculating.”
Our room was so comfortable, featuring a working fireplace, canopied bed, small sitting area with comfy chairs; we had no urgency to leave. We each took a chair, read and chatted until I was drowsy. I lay down for about 10 minutes, while Lar continued to read. In a little while we got ready and went down stairs to wine and cheese. We enjoyed the red (forgot to write it down) and nice cheeses, grapes and crackers. Our hostess insisted we also try a white which was, to us, very unforgettable. In fact, neither of us drank more than a sip.
Fellow travelers were two young couples, one an intern and his wife from Manhattan (originally from CA) and the other an EMT, formerly a police officer and his wife now living in Iowa, where they had relocated for the wife’s job. They were bright, positive professionals and the conversation was lively. Medicine, crime, education - all that and more was covered. They talked about their travel abroad and about the fact that they firmly believe that medicine in the U. S. is the best, overall, in the world. We truly enjoyed their company and the manner in which they all four were starting life (so young!) in such a positive manner. When it was time to leave for our dinner reservations, we said an almost reluctant goodbye.
Pearl! What a taste sensation awaited us. As we entered the tiny restaurant we were welcomed by an anteroom full of tables dedicated to Day of the Dead. We could tell immediately that this would be a family-full, intimate experience. My dinner consisted of Thai chicken soup with curry and cream....omg! It was so good. Then soft polenta, roasted tomatoes and glazed vegetables. I have no words for the perfection of this meal. Lar enjoyed halibut on a bed of chard and black beans. Wonderful! Our delightfully sweet server hugged me as we departed, and when I said "muchas gracious" I could not have meant it more.
We pulled out things we would need from the trunk of the car and went in to our room where port and chocolates were awaiting us, and quiet music filled the corners and slowly filtered down upon us. No TV might sound a bit frightening, but it can be so good for the soul.
Monday, December 14, 2009
An Irish Christmas Gift
I thought and thought about what I might get for my friends. Please click below and enjoy. You'll want to stop my regular page music to enjoy that of the Irish blessing.
http://www.e-water.net/viewflash.php?flash=irishblessing_en
http://www.e-water.net/viewflash.php?flash=irishblessing_en
Thursday, December 10, 2009
California Trip Part Two
By now, my throat is so sore I can barely speak (can you imagine!?) and we were both dragging.
We got to our room at the Airport Hyatt where I read and slept, ate some Cracker Jacks and drank some wine and was done for the night. (Health nut! fiber and antioxidants)
Lar watched some of the World Series, spoke with son and grandson Larry and then went down to the sports bar in the hotel for dinner – wearing his Phillies hat. He watched the rest of the game there, but I was asleep and unreachable by phone, by chat or in any other way!
Sunday 1 November 2009
What a beautiful day! We had coffee in bed; we both read some and then headed down for breakfast. The hotel has a gorgeous atrium, live jazz playing softly in the background and a terrific buffet. Seattle’s Best Coffee – it really is the best!
We departed from the hotel and drove with perfect instructions from “Pete” the GPS to The Wharf. I snapped some pictures entering the city – the old Stadium and the new AT and T. We got registered and moved into our terrific room at the Radisson. Lar unpacked some of his things, but I am a bit terrified to even open my suitcase. Get it opened it might explode. Take anything out and we might not get it back. We have misplaced the confirmation for our tour tomorrow, so Lar called and discovered we will need to have a 0630 wake up call. Since that will actually feel like something nearer to 9 or 9:30 am it might not be bad.
We checked with the concierge on directions for the Wharf, but as I was making sure of what I’d learned on line, he laughed and said, “you really know it all!” so I guess the internet did have me prepared.
Went to Boudins for lunch – Lar had clam chowder and I organic tomato soup both in sour dough bowls. They deserve their reputation – really good food. We both had a Red Tail beer – recommended by our cashier…a young girl who says if we liked that we should try Hawk’s Eye (I think)….we did like the Red Tail, but never did get to try the other.
We walked along enjoying the sun, the shops, and the atmosphere. The Wharf gets some bad press, people saying it is too touristy, etc., but we really enjoyed it… - but then….we were tourists! We took pictures of each other at the Fishermans Wharf sign which I believe might be a requirement to prove you are a dorky tourist.
Finally found the cable car station, after walking quite a way the wrong way, and got aboard. For the ride up, we were seated inside, it was difficult to see and almost impossible to take any pictures. Coming down, Lar held us back so we were first in line for the next car and we got to sit in front…..wow! What a crazy city…..you can’t even comprehend those hills, those streets, those buildings on such a slant! What fun! Sometimes I got distracted thinking about how one would go about building the jam-packed buildings that appear to be holding on with their finger nails. Amazing.
Walking back to the Wharf, we stopped for post cards and I was able to find a snow globe for oldest granddaughter. We stopped back at Boudins for a sourdough baguette, a chunk of Organic Spring Hill Jersey Jack Cheese (fabulous!) and a Pinot Noir by Buena Vista Carneros – very robust! As we were taking it back to our room to enjoy with the baseball game we met an Irish couple from Cork. Had a lovely chat with them and then up to our simple meal as we watched the game. I took a picture of Lar with the food and wine to send to Richard and Jois – reminded us of our similar meal with them in our room in New England.
I finished reading “Killed by Clutter” Leslie Caine.
Monday 2 November 2009
Slept in 20 minute increments, up at 5:30 AM. Begin to read “Critical” by Robin Cook. Wrote a few postcards.
Down to the lobby to print confirmation for our tour. We took our breakfast from a little food cart – coffee, muffin, banana, and an apple for later. We sat outside around a fire pit, cozy and the fire was needed to take the chill off. There was a couple taking pictures of each other, I offered to take some of them both. We got to talking and discovered they are from Bucks County PA, near the Buck Hotel and he was originally from Mayfair. Talked quite some time. He told us his parents have been on over 70 (!) cruises. Maybe one day we’ll make that a goal!
Then another couple sat with us a while – from Wisconsin. We chatted until time for our bus.
Our tour guide was Troy…and he was a terrific guide. We were off for Muir Woods. Troy had great patter, kept us entertained and informed. After seeing various city sites as well as the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate (painted a garish orange/red?) , we climbed the steep and winding road to Muir Woods. I would not want to drive a car up that road, let alone the small bus! Muir is an amazing place. As I understand it, the local Indian population believed it to be the home of evil spirits. It certainly does have an “other-worldly” feel, and it does seem very spiritual, but I never felt any evil or even slightly naughty-ness….just this truly holy aura, a feeling that makes everyone there whisper….you travel the walkway in awe, looking ever upward to see if these red wood giants ever do stop. They stand in all their glory, in a kind of strength that makes you feel nothing could ever happen to this planet with them holding on. And the air! Sweet and almost spicy scented…as Troy warned us, “you may smell an oddly different smell but do not be frightened. It is what is called ‘fresh air’ and will not harm you!” I kept taking deep, appreciating breaths and wishing I could film it, bottle it, somehow to share it at home. I am sure that many of the pictures I did take on our two mile walk will be keepers….
After leaving the Woods, we proceeded to Sausalito for lunch. We didn’t have the time to really see that town. By the time we had got our food, I had a hot dog with everything and water, Lar had fish and chips it was nearly time to get back to the bus. We did take the time to have a cone each, I had organic blueberry ice yogurt (live culture) and Lar had caramel macadamia nut ice cream.
Troy took us on a side trip for a photo op with the Golden Gate as a backdrop. He was kind enough to take our picture there. And then on to the Alcatraz tour.
We got to our room at the Airport Hyatt where I read and slept, ate some Cracker Jacks and drank some wine and was done for the night. (Health nut! fiber and antioxidants)
Lar watched some of the World Series, spoke with son and grandson Larry and then went down to the sports bar in the hotel for dinner – wearing his Phillies hat. He watched the rest of the game there, but I was asleep and unreachable by phone, by chat or in any other way!
Sunday 1 November 2009
What a beautiful day! We had coffee in bed; we both read some and then headed down for breakfast. The hotel has a gorgeous atrium, live jazz playing softly in the background and a terrific buffet. Seattle’s Best Coffee – it really is the best!
We departed from the hotel and drove with perfect instructions from “Pete” the GPS to The Wharf. I snapped some pictures entering the city – the old Stadium and the new AT and T. We got registered and moved into our terrific room at the Radisson. Lar unpacked some of his things, but I am a bit terrified to even open my suitcase. Get it opened it might explode. Take anything out and we might not get it back. We have misplaced the confirmation for our tour tomorrow, so Lar called and discovered we will need to have a 0630 wake up call. Since that will actually feel like something nearer to 9 or 9:30 am it might not be bad.
We checked with the concierge on directions for the Wharf, but as I was making sure of what I’d learned on line, he laughed and said, “you really know it all!” so I guess the internet did have me prepared.
Went to Boudins for lunch – Lar had clam chowder and I organic tomato soup both in sour dough bowls. They deserve their reputation – really good food. We both had a Red Tail beer – recommended by our cashier…a young girl who says if we liked that we should try Hawk’s Eye (I think)….we did like the Red Tail, but never did get to try the other.
We walked along enjoying the sun, the shops, and the atmosphere. The Wharf gets some bad press, people saying it is too touristy, etc., but we really enjoyed it… - but then….we were tourists! We took pictures of each other at the Fishermans Wharf sign which I believe might be a requirement to prove you are a dorky tourist.
Finally found the cable car station, after walking quite a way the wrong way, and got aboard. For the ride up, we were seated inside, it was difficult to see and almost impossible to take any pictures. Coming down, Lar held us back so we were first in line for the next car and we got to sit in front…..wow! What a crazy city…..you can’t even comprehend those hills, those streets, those buildings on such a slant! What fun! Sometimes I got distracted thinking about how one would go about building the jam-packed buildings that appear to be holding on with their finger nails. Amazing.
Walking back to the Wharf, we stopped for post cards and I was able to find a snow globe for oldest granddaughter. We stopped back at Boudins for a sourdough baguette, a chunk of Organic Spring Hill Jersey Jack Cheese (fabulous!) and a Pinot Noir by Buena Vista Carneros – very robust! As we were taking it back to our room to enjoy with the baseball game we met an Irish couple from Cork. Had a lovely chat with them and then up to our simple meal as we watched the game. I took a picture of Lar with the food and wine to send to Richard and Jois – reminded us of our similar meal with them in our room in New England.
I finished reading “Killed by Clutter” Leslie Caine.
Monday 2 November 2009
Slept in 20 minute increments, up at 5:30 AM. Begin to read “Critical” by Robin Cook. Wrote a few postcards.
Down to the lobby to print confirmation for our tour. We took our breakfast from a little food cart – coffee, muffin, banana, and an apple for later. We sat outside around a fire pit, cozy and the fire was needed to take the chill off. There was a couple taking pictures of each other, I offered to take some of them both. We got to talking and discovered they are from Bucks County PA, near the Buck Hotel and he was originally from Mayfair. Talked quite some time. He told us his parents have been on over 70 (!) cruises. Maybe one day we’ll make that a goal!
Then another couple sat with us a while – from Wisconsin. We chatted until time for our bus.
Our tour guide was Troy…and he was a terrific guide. We were off for Muir Woods. Troy had great patter, kept us entertained and informed. After seeing various city sites as well as the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate (painted a garish orange/red?) , we climbed the steep and winding road to Muir Woods. I would not want to drive a car up that road, let alone the small bus! Muir is an amazing place. As I understand it, the local Indian population believed it to be the home of evil spirits. It certainly does have an “other-worldly” feel, and it does seem very spiritual, but I never felt any evil or even slightly naughty-ness….just this truly holy aura, a feeling that makes everyone there whisper….you travel the walkway in awe, looking ever upward to see if these red wood giants ever do stop. They stand in all their glory, in a kind of strength that makes you feel nothing could ever happen to this planet with them holding on. And the air! Sweet and almost spicy scented…as Troy warned us, “you may smell an oddly different smell but do not be frightened. It is what is called ‘fresh air’ and will not harm you!” I kept taking deep, appreciating breaths and wishing I could film it, bottle it, somehow to share it at home. I am sure that many of the pictures I did take on our two mile walk will be keepers….
After leaving the Woods, we proceeded to Sausalito for lunch. We didn’t have the time to really see that town. By the time we had got our food, I had a hot dog with everything and water, Lar had fish and chips it was nearly time to get back to the bus. We did take the time to have a cone each, I had organic blueberry ice yogurt (live culture) and Lar had caramel macadamia nut ice cream.
Troy took us on a side trip for a photo op with the Golden Gate as a backdrop. He was kind enough to take our picture there. And then on to the Alcatraz tour.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Borrowing (with credit given) WHAT DO TEACHERS MAKE
Glancing through some blogs this morning, I came across one that started with one post that meant a lot to me....having come from a line of teachers, and knowing what teaching meant to them, especially Aunt Mar and Aunt Edna....I have borrowed in order to share.....
the original blog address is as follows: http://princesspearlz.blogspot.com/
This morning I am toasting (with my coffee) all the teachers and others who really make a difference.
the original blog address is as follows: http://princesspearlz.blogspot.com/
This morning I am toasting (with my coffee) all the teachers and others who really make a difference.
What Teachers Make (my Singapore Version)
The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life. One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with education. He argued, "What's a kid going to learn from someone who decided his best option in life was to become a teacher?" He reminded the other dinner guests what they say about teachers: "Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach. " To stress his point he said to another guest, "You're a teacher, Bonnie. Be honest. What do you make?"
Bonnie, who had a reputation for honesty & frankness replied, "You want to know what I make?"
She paused for a second, then began...
"Well, I make kids work harder than they ever thought they could. I make a C+ feel like the A+. I make kids sit through 30 minutes of class time when their parents can't make them sit for 5 without an I Pod, Game Cube or movie rental... You want to know what I make?"
She paused again & looked at each and every person at the table.
"I make kids wonder. I make them question. I make them criticize. I make them apologize & mean it. I make them have respect & take responsibility for their actions. I teach them to write & then I make them write. I make them read, read, read. I make them show all their work in math. I make my students learn everything they need to know in English while preserving their unique cultural identity. I make my classroom a place where all my students feel safe. I make my students stand to sing and say the Singapore National Anthem and Pledge to the Flag, because we live in Singapore. Finally, I make them understand that if they use the gifts they were given, work hard, & follow their hearts, they can succeed in life."
Bonnie paused one last time & then continued.
"Then, when people try to judge me by what I make, I can hold my head up high & pay no attention because they are ignorant... You want to know what I make?"
"I MAKE A DIFFERENCE. What do you make?" "
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Patrick's Birthday
Our "baby" is 33 tomorrow! Here is a small glimpse into our life with him so far. Every day has been a blessing.....Happy Birthday, Pat!
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| Make a Smilebox scrapbook |
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Vacation
"We need to travel. If we don't offer ourselves to the unknown, our senses dull. Our world becomes small and we lose our sense of wonder. Our eyes don't lift to the horizon; our ears don't hear the sounds around us. The edge is off our experience, and we pass our days in a routine that is both comfortable and limiting. We wake up one day and find we have lost our dreams in order to protect our days. Don't let yourself become one of these people. The fear of the unknown and the lure of the comfortable will conspire to keep you from taking the chances the traveler has to take. But if you take them, you will never regret your choice. To be sure, there will be moments of doubt when you stand alone on an empty road in an icy rain, or when you are ill with fever in a rented bed. But as the pains of the moment will come, so too will they fall away. In the end, you will be so much richer, so much stronger, so much clearer, so much happier, and so much better a person that all the risk and hardship will seem like nothing compared to the knowledge you have gained."~Letters to My Son: A Father's Wisdom on Manhood, Women, Life and Love
We have had our "dream vacation" and it was all it could have been, and more!
The first week was something Larry has been wanting to do for many years - share some of California with me....his having been and loving it. The second week was something we have both wanted to do, dreamed of doing since even before meeting each other. Hawaii.
We had a 4AM pick up time (ugh!) and we just gave ourselves up to the flow....after all, you can't fight it once you've committed, and we were both exhausted from work and ready for the left-side life style!
We flew United and were very happy with it over all.
The Ford Fusion was rented, we also added on a GPS - our first encounter, and will be going out to buy one this week! What a super invention.
From San Francisco Airport, we drove to Half Moon Bay, hoping to find some quaint little coastal/bay side pub or cafe in which to eat lunch and watch the water.
We ended up at the Green Leaf Market - a whole foods type of store, sitting outside on the sidewalk, watching the parking lot iin the amazing sun. I had the best turkey chili - very spicy - with two little French rolls, Lary had a hot homemade turkey meatloaf sandwich on a wheat bun. And then we set off for a coastal drive.
All along the way there are State (or Federal?) Park beaches, and for one fee you have access to all of them along the way. As it was very misty/foggy it was so reminiscent of Scotland, but by 3 the mist had burned off and the views were spectacular.
Planning at home we'd hoped to make it to Big Sur, but Lar was tiring after the flight and we made it only as far as Pescadero. We picked up some things like bottled water and snacks in a little general store there and headed back to check in to our hotel.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Over the Hill, and Apparently Sliding Down!
This morning there is not a spot on my body that isn't hurting! Apparently, yesterday I crested the old age hill and have begun the very slippery slide down the other side. Hitting every bump along the way.
Some time ago, 7 year old granddaughter Julia requested a visit to the zoo. It has taken a while, between calendar committments and the weather, but yesterday was custom made...absolutely perfect weather and it was a special day - "Boo at the Zoo."
Julia ate dinner with us, we watched "Harry and the Hendersons" - what a great movie! We loved it all over again, and Julia fell in love with Harry - just as was intended.
After a bit of a read, our little guest fell asleep and was fresh as a daisy in the morning. We weren't in bad shape either.....boy did we age in one day!
Julia got dressed as a "Punk Pirate" - cute as a button, and we donned our grandparent suits and we were off.
To a nearby diner first, for breakfast. As we entered the diner, the hostess and waitpersons went crazy over our little pirate. One actually asked her to pose for a photo op. Everyone eating commented as they led us to a far table....giving Julia a chance to show off her adorableness. It was cute.
STOP.
Over 2 hours sitting on the Schuykill....just sitting....we'd move one car length and sit more...it's the oldest zoo in the land.....it's an old city....wouldn't you think they could get it right one of these days? What should have been maybe a 15 minute drive took over 2 hours.
Julia was great....just sat back, never complained.....but she had to put up with her immature, infantile grandparents who were ready to choke somebody! She had to listen to her grandmother ask "are we there yet?" Oh, it was awful. :)
When we finally got to the zoo, we followed "over flow" parking signs until we were back in NJ. Well, no, not quite, but we had to hoof it over a mile back to the zoo. Which, considering the magnificence of the day was no biggie. After all, we'd rested for 2 hours. Right?
Enter the zoo.
Lar went to the rest room.
Ann went to stand in line. And stand in line. And stand in line. Women have been going to the rest room for as long as we've had rest rooms....not just for 200 years. Would you think SOMEONE would get that right some time? There were at least 30 people queing...there were about 6 booths. And there were squirming, whining little girls - hoping not to ruin their costumes before they got their first candy. And at least one old lady in the same condition!
But then began the magic of the country's first zoo. What a gorgeous park! There were new exhibits, much more relaxed appearing animals, candy stations throughout the park with little ones calling out "trick or treat" and "thank yous" and the ocassional grandparent thankfully accepting a candy too. What a good time we had.
Some time ago, 7 year old granddaughter Julia requested a visit to the zoo. It has taken a while, between calendar committments and the weather, but yesterday was custom made...absolutely perfect weather and it was a special day - "Boo at the Zoo."
Julia ate dinner with us, we watched "Harry and the Hendersons" - what a great movie! We loved it all over again, and Julia fell in love with Harry - just as was intended.
Julia got dressed as a "Punk Pirate" - cute as a button, and we donned our grandparent suits and we were off.
To a nearby diner first, for breakfast. As we entered the diner, the hostess and waitpersons went crazy over our little pirate. One actually asked her to pose for a photo op. Everyone eating commented as they led us to a far table....giving Julia a chance to show off her adorableness. It was cute.
After chocolate chip pancakes and a glass of milk, the Pirate was ready to strut her stuff at the as yet unknown location. We hadn't told her that she would be going to the zoo.
Into the car, - blue skies, gorgeous autumn leaves....sweet air.....STOP.
Over 2 hours sitting on the Schuykill....just sitting....we'd move one car length and sit more...it's the oldest zoo in the land.....it's an old city....wouldn't you think they could get it right one of these days? What should have been maybe a 15 minute drive took over 2 hours.
Julia was great....just sat back, never complained.....but she had to put up with her immature, infantile grandparents who were ready to choke somebody! She had to listen to her grandmother ask "are we there yet?" Oh, it was awful. :)
When we finally got to the zoo, we followed "over flow" parking signs until we were back in NJ. Well, no, not quite, but we had to hoof it over a mile back to the zoo. Which, considering the magnificence of the day was no biggie. After all, we'd rested for 2 hours. Right?
Enter the zoo.
Lar went to the rest room.
Ann went to stand in line. And stand in line. And stand in line. Women have been going to the rest room for as long as we've had rest rooms....not just for 200 years. Would you think SOMEONE would get that right some time? There were at least 30 people queing...there were about 6 booths. And there were squirming, whining little girls - hoping not to ruin their costumes before they got their first candy. And at least one old lady in the same condition!
But then began the magic of the country's first zoo. What a gorgeous park! There were new exhibits, much more relaxed appearing animals, candy stations throughout the park with little ones calling out "trick or treat" and "thank yous" and the ocassional grandparent thankfully accepting a candy too. What a good time we had.And then we started the quick slide into old, old, old age.....the over one mile hike back to the car. To be sure, we didn't know how bad it was until the sounds of crispy, dry, old age muscles began in the evening. We had a bite to eat and watched a show - and then tried to get up to go to bed.....
"Kids' Book" - Not so much!
It might be 2 years ago that Grandson Larry began to urge me to read "My Brother Sam Is Dead" and I intended, the entire time, to read it. But every time I would get to the library I'd have forgotten the title. Finally, a month or so ago, I got it from him again, and actually wrote it down. Our major library didn't have it, but apparently they bought a copy for me!
It's a Scholastic, Newbery Honor, ALA Notable, and National Book Award Nominee Book.
And I can see why!
This is not a kid's book like any other I've read. If you (at any age!) would like to delve, fairly briefly, but not too lightly into the life and times of a boy during the American Revolution, check this book out. It is moving, written with all the attention to detail of any "adult" offering, an easy read, with a great deal of information at the end - fun facts, interviews and timelines.
Thanks, Larry, for that recommendation! From now on, anything you recommend I'll read, but be sure to write it down!
It's a Scholastic, Newbery Honor, ALA Notable, and National Book Award Nominee Book.
And I can see why!
This is not a kid's book like any other I've read. If you (at any age!) would like to delve, fairly briefly, but not too lightly into the life and times of a boy during the American Revolution, check this book out. It is moving, written with all the attention to detail of any "adult" offering, an easy read, with a great deal of information at the end - fun facts, interviews and timelines.
Thanks, Larry, for that recommendation! From now on, anything you recommend I'll read, but be sure to write it down!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Gettin Old
Hmmm, now that I've signed in, I've forgotten what I wanted to write!
Click below to see where I'm going with this! Thanks Linda - everyone have a .......er, a.......oh, yeah, a great day!
Gettin Old
Click below to see where I'm going with this! Thanks Linda - everyone have a .......er, a.......oh, yeah, a great day!
Gettin Old
Sunday, October 18, 2009
A Sunday Present - me to you
http://coactivedreams.blogspot.com/2009/10/how-to-learn-to-love-your-anger.html
a well thought out theory on self and anger.....see what you think.
a well thought out theory on self and anger.....see what you think.
Grieving With Joy
Truth is, I am deeply grieving for my dear friend.
But this morning I realize that I am grieving with joy.Without the blessing of knowing this special, loving, charitable, Christian Lady, I would not have the sense of loss in my heart.
And so I thank God with all my being for the gift of her friendship.
And without the unwavering steadfastness of my husband’s friendship and love, I could not have dealt with the loss of my friend.
Without the compassion and love of my children, I would have found Monday, the funeral, overwhelming.
These past weeks have held the most profound lessons life can teach. It was all there.
The sadness I felt as my friend suffered from cancer and from the only ways the medical field has at present to fight it.
The happiness when she sent a card, when she e-mailed me. The helplessness when I could not go to see her.
The shock and the first silent scream in my heart and mind when I received the call she was gone.
The sorrow I felt for her husband of almost 60 years….the knowledge that half of him was left to deal with it all. The other half having gone on to a better place.
The strength I pulled from the love of my family, and from the ever present Fathering/Mothering Presence of God.
The gentle gestures by my children.
Could I be more blessed? I think not.
Thank God.
Long Weekends (Whose concept of long?)
I wrote this item in September, and I guess I planned to add pictures or something...never published....so here it is, and I still feel the same way! Time is just a concept. A screwy concept at best!
I fail to see the humor in the term "long weekend".
It would be fine if we got long weekends made up of the same length days as the rest of the week.
But long weekends are notoriously made up of very short days.
Have you ever noticed?
Having just come off a "long" weekend, I got less than 1/3 accomplished of the list of chores and playtime I had planned. And now it is back to 4 work days - 4 of the long time days.
But we have made advances.
Our concrete work is done. We have new front steps, two new sidewalks, a new drive and a new patio! Yay!
We painted the hall (covering some of my old stenciling - of which I was not fond anyway, and glad to see go). The bedroom is complete with the exception of hanging pictures and doing something about the floor.
There is progress....but I really need some of those 40 hour days here at home, instead of spending them all at work!
I fail to see the humor in the term "long weekend".
It would be fine if we got long weekends made up of the same length days as the rest of the week.
But long weekends are notoriously made up of very short days.
Have you ever noticed?
Having just come off a "long" weekend, I got less than 1/3 accomplished of the list of chores and playtime I had planned. And now it is back to 4 work days - 4 of the long time days.
But we have made advances.
Our concrete work is done. We have new front steps, two new sidewalks, a new drive and a new patio! Yay!
We painted the hall (covering some of my old stenciling - of which I was not fond anyway, and glad to see go). The bedroom is complete with the exception of hanging pictures and doing something about the floor.
There is progress....but I really need some of those 40 hour days here at home, instead of spending them all at work!
Friday, October 9, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
The Fine Fettness of Fun
The date was set. Our youngest grandbaby, Ian, almost 24 months was coming to spend the night with us last Saturday evening.
It’s been way too long since I’ve thought a lot about “baby-proofing” and it terrifies me what I might not know any more. I checked cords, curtains, hanging things, breakable things and other unforeseen calamities. I made up the rollaway cot at it lowest setting, and then, holding my breath, opened the door to Pat’s little family of three going on four and welcomed this precious little one to stay the night.
The last time he stayed over night there were few words. There were mostly the signing for “more” and the shaking of his head for yes and no. Now there are whole phrases, “no I do not like that” and “no, I will not” “no I do not” and very clearly enunciated “yes” and “yes, I do” and the response to “does Mom Mom and Pop Pop love you?” being “yes they do up to the sky”! Also, lights “on” and “off”. His climbing “up” and getting “down” and going “in” and coming “out”.
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We could not believe the joy this little person can bring. Not a tear shed when Mommy and Daddy crept away. Just “read a book, please” and “juice please” and “milk, please” and hugs and kisses and laughing. What a beautiful time we had with this charming little boy.
In the morning we decided we needed to give him a good outlet for all his energy, so we set out on a walk to the school playground a little over a block away.![]()
First, we found it necessary to be very sure the neighbor’s fence was secure and sturdy. Then we analyzed every sign for brokenness – ie., faded print, bent sign, etc.
We checked out the flowers, the plants, the squirells and every door we saw for openness or closedness.
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And finally he beheld the playground! He ran, arms raised, calling “fun” “park!” And that is, indeed, what evolved. Lots of fun. He found the climbing sets had engraved letters and numbers and stopped to name every one. His other word was “fett” which we decided meant “wet!” and everything was. And so were we in no time at all.
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We were “fett” and we had “fun” and we had such a wondrous time with this little man who brings us so much love.
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It’s been way too long since I’ve thought a lot about “baby-proofing” and it terrifies me what I might not know any more. I checked cords, curtains, hanging things, breakable things and other unforeseen calamities. I made up the rollaway cot at it lowest setting, and then, holding my breath, opened the door to Pat’s little family of three going on four and welcomed this precious little one to stay the night.
The last time he stayed over night there were few words. There were mostly the signing for “more” and the shaking of his head for yes and no. Now there are whole phrases, “no I do not like that” and “no, I will not” “no I do not” and very clearly enunciated “yes” and “yes, I do” and the response to “does Mom Mom and Pop Pop love you?” being “yes they do up to the sky”! Also, lights “on” and “off”. His climbing “up” and getting “down” and going “in” and coming “out”.
In the morning we decided we needed to give him a good outlet for all his energy, so we set out on a walk to the school playground a little over a block away.
First, we found it necessary to be very sure the neighbor’s fence was secure and sturdy. Then we analyzed every sign for brokenness – ie., faded print, bent sign, etc.
We checked out the flowers, the plants, the squirells and every door we saw for openness or closedness.
And finally he beheld the playground! He ran, arms raised, calling “fun” “park!” And that is, indeed, what evolved. Lots of fun. He found the climbing sets had engraved letters and numbers and stopped to name every one. His other word was “fett” which we decided meant “wet!” and everything was. And so were we in no time at all. 
We were “fett” and we had “fun” and we had such a wondrous time with this little man who brings us so much love. 
One Man's Mission to Promote Peace...One School at a Time
You may notice I've added another book to "most recently read" - having just finished "Three Cups of Tea" today.
Because it is such an important book, with a message that just might be vital to life on this planet, please humor me as I quote a passage and some information from the book.
1. Visit the www.threecupsoftea.com web site If you buy books online, go through this web site and 7% will go toward a girls’ education scholarship fund in Pakistan and Afghanistan .
http://www.threecupsoftea.com/ http://www.penniesforpeace.org/
2. Suggest Three Cups of Tea to a friend, colleague, book club, women’s group, church, civic group, synagogue, mosque, university or high school class.
3. Check if the book is in your local library. If not, donate a book or ask them to add it to their library collection. Ask friends to do the same.
4. Encourage your local bookstore to carry this book.
5. Write a Three Cups of Tea book review for Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Borders, or a blog.
6. Ask the book editor of your local newspaper or radio to consider reviewing the book.
7. Pennies for Peace, www.penniesforpeace.org, is designed for school children. Get your local school involved. Since 1994 (as of 2006) more than eight million pennies have been raised through Pennies for Peace.
8. If you want to support - efforts to promote education and literacy, especially for girls, you can make a tax-deductible contribution to the nonprofit organization, Central Asia Institute, PO Box 7209, Bozeman, MT 59771, www.ikat.org. It costs $1.00 per month for one child’s education in Pakistan or Afghanistan, a penny to buy a pencil, and a teacher’s salary averages $1 per day.
Because it is such an important book, with a message that just might be vital to life on this planet, please humor me as I quote a passage and some information from the book.
“Look here, look at these hills.” Khan indicated the boulder fields that marched up from the dirt streets of Baharak like irregularly spaced headstones, arrayed like a vast army of the dead as they climbed toward the deepening sunset."In 1993 a mountaineer named Greg Mortenson drifted into an impoverished Pakistan village after a failed attempt to climb K2. Moved by the inhabitants' kindness, he promised to return and build a school. Thre Cups of Tea is the story of that promise and its extraordinary outcome. Overe the next decade Mortenson built not just one but fifty-five school - especially for girls - the the forbidding terrain that gave birth to the Taliban. His story is at once a riveting adventure and a testament to the power of the humanitarian spirit."
“There has been far too much dying in these hills,” Sadhar Kahn said, somberly. “Every rock, every boulder that you see before you is one of my mujahadeen, shahids, martyrs, who sacrificed their lives fighting the Russians and the Taliban. Now we must make their sacrifice worthwhile,” Khan said, turning to face Mortenson. “We must turn these stones into schools.”
1. Visit the www.threecupsoftea.com web site If you buy books online, go through this web site and 7% will go toward a girls’ education scholarship fund in Pakistan and Afghanistan .
http://www.threecupsoftea.com/ http://www.penniesforpeace.org/
2. Suggest Three Cups of Tea to a friend, colleague, book club, women’s group, church, civic group, synagogue, mosque, university or high school class.
3. Check if the book is in your local library. If not, donate a book or ask them to add it to their library collection. Ask friends to do the same.
4. Encourage your local bookstore to carry this book.
5. Write a Three Cups of Tea book review for Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Borders, or a blog.
6. Ask the book editor of your local newspaper or radio to consider reviewing the book.
7. Pennies for Peace, www.penniesforpeace.org, is designed for school children. Get your local school involved. Since 1994 (as of 2006) more than eight million pennies have been raised through Pennies for Peace.
8. If you want to support - efforts to promote education and literacy, especially for girls, you can make a tax-deductible contribution to the nonprofit organization, Central Asia Institute, PO Box 7209, Bozeman, MT 59771, www.ikat.org. It costs $1.00 per month for one child’s education in Pakistan or Afghanistan, a penny to buy a pencil, and a teacher’s salary averages $1 per day.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
An Ode to My Crock Pot *
Thou still virtually unused, sitting in quiet
Thou foster-child of silence and slow time,
Keeper of meals, who can express what you are
A bowl of oregano, or perhaps thyme
Leaves of parsley, kale or grape
Did God create you, or men, or both
In Arizona or in California?
Creator of what men do long for, what women need
I in pursuit of time, and struggling to get away from evening cookery
We sing of your wondrous meals, we eat in ecstasy.
After something like 20 years of not getting it right, I think, by George, I've got it!
I've been buying all sorts of delicious sounding veggies, meats, all sorts of things each time we grocery shop, only to discover at week's end that a lot of it never got made into meals. Lots of waste. Lots of guilt.
For the last few weeks I've tried something new. And it is working! And it is cutting down on grocery purchases, as well as giving me more time after work.
Daughter in law Tina sent me a digital crock pot cook book almost a year ago. Put that together with the freshly dusted crock pot that was languishing on the shelf.....
and you have chili one night, chicken cordon bleu another, delicious beef tips in a to die for gravy - the list goes on.
I simply shop for only the ingredients in two selections from the cook book. Yes, maybe the cauliflower does look yummie...but it isn't in either of the recipies....won't buy it!
I put one meal together on Monday morning, (none have taken more than 15 or 20 minutes) which we eat that night.
On Tuesday morning I put together another. We eat that that night.
Wednesday can be something else, go out, or begin the left overs - which we love. (I admit, some don't).
That means that on at least Monday, Tuesday, and two other nights of the week, I come home to meals prepared. I just love it!
click here for a few recipies
*If you didn't get the reference....check out "An Ode to a Grecian Urn"
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
A Second Chance
Well, I gave Pomegranate Soup another chance....the first effort, as I've written before, just didn't take.
But I had only a few days until it was due back at library, so jumped in and am glad I did. This little book is both entertaining and very informative. And there are some wonderful sounding recipies!
During a period when we have become super sensitive to those of other cultures, it could not be a better time to read and learn about some of them - putting a face to them, tasting just a little of their life and ways.
So, once again, I've given a book a second chance, and it has given me a really good experience.
But I had only a few days until it was due back at library, so jumped in and am glad I did. This little book is both entertaining and very informative. And there are some wonderful sounding recipies!
During a period when we have become super sensitive to those of other cultures, it could not be a better time to read and learn about some of them - putting a face to them, tasting just a little of their life and ways.
So, once again, I've given a book a second chance, and it has given me a really good experience.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Weekend Trip - and the Timing Thereof
We had a blur of a weekend! We were both lucky enough to be able to leave work a little early on Friday to beat some of the traffic (big strong accent on "some" !) and set out for a half-way point on the way to see son Michael, Tina and Jessica our beautiful 13 year old granddaughter.
The first stop is always a Dunkin' D in DE. It has changed hands a couple of times in the many years we've stopped there...but always for the better. And the coffee is super.
I drove from there to our next routine stop - a Ledo Pizza, I'm not sure where (!). Ledo is another place we are always satisfied with the best garlic bread and whatever else we are in the mood for. And then, on the road again.
Waldorf MD is such a nice place to stay, and believe me, when you've just worked all day, driven about 5 hours, a clean king sized bed is more than welcoming.
Next day we were able to get to Mike's by noonish which is nice - gives us more time to visit. As Lar pulled into the drive he pulled way down almost up to Mike's truck. It actually caused me to think it odd, and I almost said something about boxing the truck in.
We visited a while and then decided to go out for lunch at a new deli Tina had heard about. Jessica, of course, was going to ride with us. Mike and Tina would take their car. Got in, and Lar said, "I can't turn the key!" I took it for granted he simply needed to wiggle the wheel a bit, sometimes that happens.
Uh - no.........the battery was completely dead! I mean it was dry as a bone...and there wasn't even the ability to put it into neurtral so Mike and I could push it back a bit for the truck!
We had just driven all those miles....with plenty of opportunities for the car to die anywhere in between. It chose to do so in Mike's drive! I couldn't believe the timing.
Mike was able to get the truck just barely backed around the car so he could attempt to jump the battery....no dice. When I say "dead" I mean long gone. No retrieval!
So we went to lunch, and then Mike and Tina went to buy us a battery, which Mike so kindly put in while we took our darling girl shopping for a coat and the traditional ice cream. We have such fun with her and it breaks our hearts we cannot be with her more.
We are more than proud of these kids....Mike has done so much really good work around the house, despite his disability (don't think he knows the word!) and Tina has earned her Master's while working full time and being an active mom and wife. She will graduate in December. Then they will be able to realize the benefits of all her hard work, and all her time occupied getting there.
We are home again, and looking forward to the family possibly being together (all together, hopefully) at Thanksgiving.
So much to be grateful for - including the timing of the dying battery!
The first stop is always a Dunkin' D in DE. It has changed hands a couple of times in the many years we've stopped there...but always for the better. And the coffee is super.
I drove from there to our next routine stop - a Ledo Pizza, I'm not sure where (!). Ledo is another place we are always satisfied with the best garlic bread and whatever else we are in the mood for. And then, on the road again.
Waldorf MD is such a nice place to stay, and believe me, when you've just worked all day, driven about 5 hours, a clean king sized bed is more than welcoming.
Next day we were able to get to Mike's by noonish which is nice - gives us more time to visit. As Lar pulled into the drive he pulled way down almost up to Mike's truck. It actually caused me to think it odd, and I almost said something about boxing the truck in.
We visited a while and then decided to go out for lunch at a new deli Tina had heard about. Jessica, of course, was going to ride with us. Mike and Tina would take their car. Got in, and Lar said, "I can't turn the key!" I took it for granted he simply needed to wiggle the wheel a bit, sometimes that happens.
Uh - no.........the battery was completely dead! I mean it was dry as a bone...and there wasn't even the ability to put it into neurtral so Mike and I could push it back a bit for the truck!
We had just driven all those miles....with plenty of opportunities for the car to die anywhere in between. It chose to do so in Mike's drive! I couldn't believe the timing.
Mike was able to get the truck just barely backed around the car so he could attempt to jump the battery....no dice. When I say "dead" I mean long gone. No retrieval!
So we went to lunch, and then Mike and Tina went to buy us a battery, which Mike so kindly put in while we took our darling girl shopping for a coat and the traditional ice cream. We have such fun with her and it breaks our hearts we cannot be with her more.
We are more than proud of these kids....Mike has done so much really good work around the house, despite his disability (don't think he knows the word!) and Tina has earned her Master's while working full time and being an active mom and wife. She will graduate in December. Then they will be able to realize the benefits of all her hard work, and all her time occupied getting there.
We are home again, and looking forward to the family possibly being together (all together, hopefully) at Thanksgiving.
So much to be grateful for - including the timing of the dying battery!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Books and People
Yesterday I'd promised to pick up a book for Larry at the public library. During my lunch hour I drove the FIVE minutes to our state-of-the-art white elephant of a library (read many tax dollars flushing noisily down the drain!) and was able to get one of his choices. Meantime, discovered another of my "hold" books was in...meaning I still have some heavy reading to do....and then met with a lady at the circulation desk to order from another library the book Larry really wanted.
We had a fairly lengthy discussion on books, during which I told her I had a tough time with the first couple of pages of Pomegranate Soup.
"I just don't bother anymore" she said. "If they don't grab me right away, I let them go. Too many books to read."
I used to do that. I used to do that with people, too. Either they were open and receptive immediately, or I'd back off. Didn't have the confidence to find out what the walls were about, what the cool reception was projecting.
And there certainly are lots of people out there.
But some people I've stuck with, kept at it, chipped away, have become some very dear people to me.
And some books that I've tried even 3 or 4 times, have turned out to be very worthwhile having read.
Who knows, maybe I'll get more possessive of my time and effort again in my older age, but right now, hey I'm not going anywhere....so I'll put some effort in....
I'll meet new people - despite themselves.....
and I might get Pomegranate Soup and other books read.
I think it might be worth it!
oh, and the point of being where it is convenient.....
I bought a lovely sandwich, bottle of water and bag of chips for $4.99 at the library cafe, ate it in the car with all the windows open....(will be in front of the library fireplace in the winter)...talked to Larry on the cell.
Swept up my crumbs.
Drove to the new Race Track shopping center to Barnes and Noble....picked up my new sheet music book, drove back to work....and got to my desk in 55 minutes of my lunch hour!
Sweet!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
This n That
1. Met with concrete guy tonight after work to get our first estimate. Really liked the guy, really liked his attitude, his take on things, his listening ability (that is just too hard to find in people!), I'm hoping his price is best because I feel I will be very comfortable working with him. We may have to break up the job into two parts for financial reasons...but I'll be so glad to get the driveway and front steps done! I can wait for the rest.
2. The bedroom may never be done. We have moved back in there among the mess simply because we couldn't sleep in the guest room any more!
We bought the blinds and were told how to hang them - completely wrong! So Lar had to go buy wood which I painted last night and which I hope we can put up tomorrow night so we can hang the blinds. I hate crawling on the floor! Well, I don't really crawl on the floor, but anyone who knows me knows I don't do well with no window coverings - especially at night!
We bought the drapes and poles and rings but the lady who assured me we had everything neglected to tell me I needed hooks so that required another shopping trip. But really can't hang them until we hang the blinds.
We need to something about the floor, but so far no one has called us back.
And the mattress still has not arrived!
Otherwise....looking good. (insert smiling winking face here.)
3. Over night my blog counter went from about 900 to 11, 900 that's eleven thousand people reading my blog overnight! I am thrilled. Or aggravated with the counter. Nah, I'll just be thrilled. That's a better feeling.
4. Had the library put me on the list for a couple of books, had one book ordered through library sharing system....now have 3 books all due in about 2 weeks....so I might need some of those 11,000 people who are reading my blog come help me read my books.
And the books are a surprising off shoot from another book. The other book mentioned, pretty much in passing, Oscar Wilde. I got curious. One book I have is a biography. Another is an autobiography by his son. But can I get them read in two weeks.....not if I don't close this.......................
2. The bedroom may never be done. We have moved back in there among the mess simply because we couldn't sleep in the guest room any more!
We bought the blinds and were told how to hang them - completely wrong! So Lar had to go buy wood which I painted last night and which I hope we can put up tomorrow night so we can hang the blinds. I hate crawling on the floor! Well, I don't really crawl on the floor, but anyone who knows me knows I don't do well with no window coverings - especially at night!
We bought the drapes and poles and rings but the lady who assured me we had everything neglected to tell me I needed hooks so that required another shopping trip. But really can't hang them until we hang the blinds.
We need to something about the floor, but so far no one has called us back.
And the mattress still has not arrived!
Otherwise....looking good. (insert smiling winking face here.)
3. Over night my blog counter went from about 900 to 11, 900 that's eleven thousand people reading my blog overnight! I am thrilled. Or aggravated with the counter. Nah, I'll just be thrilled. That's a better feeling.
4. Had the library put me on the list for a couple of books, had one book ordered through library sharing system....now have 3 books all due in about 2 weeks....so I might need some of those 11,000 people who are reading my blog come help me read my books.
And the books are a surprising off shoot from another book. The other book mentioned, pretty much in passing, Oscar Wilde. I got curious. One book I have is a biography. Another is an autobiography by his son. But can I get them read in two weeks.....not if I don't close this.......................
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Miracles
We participated - or should I say - "profited" from someone else's miracle yesterday.
I think it was so obvious it was hard not to recognize that it was directed. And the way the day went from there, even realist husband had to admit we were blessed throughout the day by very special people popping up here and there.
It began at J. C. Penneys. Maybe the initials had something to do with it. I just don't know.
We went there for window treatments. Although I found the draperies immediately, we spent quite a bit of time speaking with a really helpful salesperson. Timing is everything.
We checked out lamps and then, of course, Larry had to check out shirts. Larry is an official member of the "shirt club" - I think he is the President! He had a gift card that is several years old from Teresa and Brad and he just knew there was at least one shirt there with his name on it.
After looking for quite some time, he hadn't found anything in his size he liked...but I was hearing a young man barely containing his excitement at finding a sale display.
Long and short of it....the young man (whose name turned out to be Larry too) had prayed that he would be able to afford a new shirt or two for the new job he is starting next week. Not only did he find several for himself, which should have been over $35 each, but he extended himself to find some in Lar's size as well! All for $6.96 each! We could feel the young man's spiritual nature, he was thrilled to have something to testify at church on Sunday - God's love even extending to providing new shirts to make a good impression on a new job. We were so taken by him....kind of person you want to wrap up and take home!
And Lar did indeed wrap up and take home 4 shirts. We'll think of the younger Larry when Lar wears them. And of Brad and Teresa for their generous birthday gift! It took a while, but it made our day to spend it!
Just let God love you....and keep your eyes open to the people who help Him/Her do it! It is a joy.
Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles
seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. (Matthew
6:25-32) 5
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Autumn Leaves - Leaf Me Be!
SUNDAY AUG 30 2009
3:00 PM Having gone through the frustrating process of deciding on a new mattress, we decided to paint the bedroom before it arrives.
Not bad, we thought. It’ll take 6 – 8 weeks…gives us plenty of time to pick a color for sure, buy it and paint.
Next day (Friday) – make that less than 24 hours after ordering said mattress, Larry gets an e-mail. “Your mattress has shipped.” I have finally found a moment appropriate to use the word “egad!”
For over a year now I have known I wanted a pinky toned brown for the bedroom.
Then I felt I was getting mixed messages from Larry on that color and we began to discuss a gold. On the way to the store I said, “how about the gold/brown of autumn leaves?” He agreed that sounded very nice. Getting out of the car there were tiny leaves lying about on the parking lot just the color I meant. Larry suggested I bring one in…see if we could match it.
Immediately we found a chip the exact color.
I was so enthralled at matching the leaf so quickly I gave no more thought to whether or not I liked the color for the room.
That might have been a mistake!
So far I’ve sploshed some autumn leaf ( you might read baby poo ) on the walls to watch it dry as Larry has been painting the ceiling.
Umm, I’m not sure what I was thinking.
Was I thinking?
Well, as he says….”It’s only paint” it can be painted over.
3:00 PM Having gone through the frustrating process of deciding on a new mattress, we decided to paint the bedroom before it arrives.
Not bad, we thought. It’ll take 6 – 8 weeks…gives us plenty of time to pick a color for sure, buy it and paint.
Next day (Friday) – make that less than 24 hours after ordering said mattress, Larry gets an e-mail. “Your mattress has shipped.” I have finally found a moment appropriate to use the word “egad!”
For over a year now I have known I wanted a pinky toned brown for the bedroom.
Then I felt I was getting mixed messages from Larry on that color and we began to discuss a gold. On the way to the store I said, “how about the gold/brown of autumn leaves?” He agreed that sounded very nice. Getting out of the car there were tiny leaves lying about on the parking lot just the color I meant. Larry suggested I bring one in…see if we could match it.
Immediately we found a chip the exact color.
I was so enthralled at matching the leaf so quickly I gave no more thought to whether or not I liked the color for the room.
That might have been a mistake!
So far I’ve sploshed some autumn leaf ( you might read baby poo ) on the walls to watch it dry as Larry has been painting the ceiling.
Umm, I’m not sure what I was thinking.
Was I thinking?
Well, as he says….”It’s only paint” it can be painted over.
It's now 6:15 and we have just taken a dinner break. The color is beginning to grow on us....looking more brownish as it dries, definitely a warm color, but the Behr Paint with primer right in - not so much...lots of paint needed, and looks like we'll have to actually go back and order more. Tiny pink dots showing up all over.
9:00 PM Just finished the last of cutting in around the tops of the walls....it's going to require a second coat = another gallon!
But the color continues to encourage us....
9:00 PM Monday night. New gallon. Second coat is done! Yay!
And we are liking it more and more.
Creative juices flowing.....Have ideas for decorating....let the shopping begin!
Meantime, sleeping in the guest room again tonight....or should I say, tossing and turning...hopefully we'll be more used to it tonight and get some sleep. (fingers XX crossed!)
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