kateoverjoyed: 2008

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Happiest of New Years!

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

I'm really excited about this new year. I feel change in the air. It is tangible. Life sure is different from the way I'd imagined it would be. I'm not letting the tough stuff taint the good. I choose to count my blessings instead. God's not random. He controls the smallest of details, so I know his plans for me are under control. Just a small sample of what I'm am thankful for: God loves me each and every moment of my life...I'm in pretty good health, although I need to lose some weight (Um...duh! I'll probably be blogging a lot about that issue later!)...I have the bestest kid...he is happy and healthy too...Mom and Dad are still plugging away even in their eighties, and although I grumble about the lack of privacy sometimes, I really do enjoy being with them...I have a great and talented sister who loves me in spite of our differences...Chris and I have not only a roof over our heads, but a cozy and lovely one at that...I have the most wonderful friends...and I love school (who the heck knew that would happen?!)! God has big things in store for me I think! I'm excited to get on with this new chapter. Gonna make a lot of lemonade this year!

I wish all of you a fantastic year, and thanks for letting me be a small part of your lives! You rock!

Stupid Japanese games shows....they're the best!!

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Prayer please!

I need some prayer warriors! I think I've decided to try school full-time and put job hunting aside. I can't seem to find a good one, and at this rate of schooling I won't be an official nurse until I'm 60 (perhaps a slight exaggeration). I could only do this with financial aid. I'm so afraid of making a mistake here. This is big stuff, especially financially speaking. I have to be able to keep Chris at RVC. What if my car doesn't want to get with the program? What about health benefits, especially for Chris?? Do I try to get him on the county plan? What other questions can I write to express my angst??

I need some sound advice please! Do you think this is a mistake, or a good plan?

Thursday, December 25, 2008

MERRY CHRISTMAS

TO ALL

AND TO ALL

A GOOD NIGHT!

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Breathing room.........

I did it again. I get bored of the blog background. I thought this one was cute, and it was free. Kinda looks like fabric, which I like. The only thing I can't figure out is how to center the body. I used to have a sidebar too, but now it's at the bottom of the blog. What the heck? I also found this music wigget thingy. I'm not very technical. However, I am impressed with myself that I've figured out how to do as much as I have. I need to bug my sister. She's amazing at technical stuff! OOHHH JUDE????????

School wrapped up last Wednesday, I just received an email from my English teacher saying I got an A in her class. I'm so happy about that! I checked SRJC's website to see if Tom posted my Nutrition and Diet Therapy grade, but he hasn't yet. I'm hoping I got an A in that one too! It is nice to have some time off from school.

Thursday night Chris was feeling funny and complaining about back and neck pain. I felt his forehead, and sure enough....fever. 101.6 to be exact. The next day we went to the doctor. I feared he might have pneumonia, since the cough from his last illness seemed to be hanging on. The doctor though it might either be mono or strep throat, so he took a throat culture. It's strep. Poor kid! He's really responded well to the antibiotics. The doctor said he'd stop being contagious after 24 hours on the medicine. He also said if he had mono, Chris would probably break out in a rash in response to the antibiotics. They told me I may have it too. In my brain I'm picturing the can of diet Pepsi we shared a couple nights ago. Lovely! Sometimes I just don't listen to my inner germaphobe. I do feel tired, but not really sick tired. I think it's just from all the brain-strain the last few weeks of school have induced. I guess we will see. Mom was feeling crummy too, so I encouraged her to call her doctor. She really dug in her heals, but I told her that it's Friday and you don't want to be sick all weekend without medicine. She gets pneumonia every year. Turns out she was boarder-line, so she came home with antibiotics too. Too make matters worse, Friday was Dad's 84th birthday. We will make it up to him!

I found a really easy toffee recipe that used saltine crackers. You make a caramelly syrup and pour it over the saltines you've layed out in a jelly roll pan. You bake it and then take it out to cool for 5 minutes or so. Then you pour a bag of chocolate chips on top, let it melt, then spread the melty goodness across. Sounds good right? Not so good if you use jalapeno flavored saltines. That's right.....I was curious about the green flecks...but not curious enough to bother my sick mommy, or even taste one ahead of time. I think they would have been awesome.....minus the spiciness. Silly girl! I'll make some more when I get the right kind of cracker.

Here's the recipe if you'd like it.....I suggest plain saltines........

Terribly Terrific Toffee

1 cup unsalted butter (no margarine allowed), 1 cup brown sugar, 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 40-50 saltine crackers.

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Line jelly roll pan or cookie sheet with foil and spray with non-stick spray. Lay a flat layer of crackers out on the foil. Melt the sugar and butter until a boil is reached. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 5-6 minutes or until mixture is thickened and sugar is completely dissolved. Pour this mixture over the crackers and spread to coat evenly. Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the toffee becomes bubbly. After removing the pan from the oven, let it sit for 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle on the chocolate chips, let them soften and melt, and then spread them into an even layer. (You can add nuts, cracker crumbs, or whatever else floats your boat at this point.) Let cool and, if desired for expediting purposes, refrigerate until hardened. Break into pieces the size of your choice. I personally prefer a hand-sized chunk.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

One more class!

As I was cramming more facts into my brain this afternoon, I began to reflect on this last semester. I really did enjoy myself! My English class helped me discover that I can write pretty well. It was stressful at times, but I didn't have to be committed to a facility. I made it through. It was weird having an online class. I don't know whether it was just my teacher or what, but I was frustrated that she didn't communicate with me more. I think that would have made the class even better. Nevertheless, I really learned a lot.

I'm really going to miss FDNT 62 (that's diet and nutrition therapy for those of you that are not in the know!). I won't miss the smelly classroom, or the freezing bathroom with the window that never closed. I will however miss April. Her friendship was a nice surprise. The fact that she knew me as a kid, but hadn't known me as an adult never seemed to be a problem. She was my very first boss when I worked out at Mount Gilead in high school. She wants us to have a Bible study together, just the two of us. We've endured some similiar things over the years. She has such an amazing perspective on life, and God, and marriage. It's always nice to know a familiar face when you walk into a new class.

Then there's Tom. Croc-wearing, shirt untucked, belly hangin' over the pants that are about to fall down, hairy as Robin Williams Tom. You were the most mellow teacher I've ever encountered, which was nice, and also very, very frustrating. I wish you'd yelled at those stupid blond twits who talked through your lecture each and every week....but you didn't. You had to wait for one of us to finally explode about it. Is it because you need hearing aids Tom? Maybe it was your confession last week about your pot-smoking habits? I don't know...explains a lot though! You blinded me with science you weird, weird man. I'll miss you anyways.

Tomorrow night is my last class of the semester. The final exam. Arthritis...diabetes....polypeptides...liver cirrhosis........Wow, I've learned so much! Hope it all stays in the brain...at least until tomorrow night!

Anytime I want to make my child lose his mind, I torture him with this song. Man, this video is bad...love the song though. Takes me right back to high school!

Saturday, December 6, 2008

It's beginning to look a lot like.....spring??

It is officially the Christmas season, but it sure doesn't feel like it to me! It's like spring out there people! I want co

ld weather....soup weather....smell the fireplaces in the neighborhood weather....wear a scarf weather! I can't get with the program! I've tried to force it. I've watched A Christmas Story, my personal favorite, at least three times. Nope....nothing. Driven around looking at the lights. Nada! The fact tha

t I have zero...I repeat zero dollars to spend on presents does not help my festive mood...or lack thereof! Bummer! AND...still no job. Ya'all are gonna faint on the floor when I finally do get one, aren't ya?! Be prepared...cause it's gonna happen! It's gonna....

I have two more weeks of school before fall semester is over. I think I'm going to get A's in both classes....pretty sure at least. I'm still waiting on word from my teacher on my latest essay on bioengineering. She takes forever to give us our grades! I took exam #2 last Wednesday in Nutrition and Diet Therapy, and I'm confident I got an A. It was easy peasy lemon squeezy! I owe it all to acrostics. Acrostics really work! Trudy Nudy never needs Nancy O'Blancy eating gooseberry jam. Can Roger clean Fido's cruddy dog dish if Ida Irwin is in Raft River, Idaho? Nancy Jonas always eats fish, but Patty eats a hamburger hurriedly every Monday. I know!! Cleaver girl! What does it mean? Don't ask...I don't remember. I remember the acrostics, but not the things the acrostics represented. One of them is the clinical symptoms of liver cirrossis. I remembered long enough to take the test though, so....at least there's that! I've worked really hard on both classes. If I'd known I wouldn't be working by now, I would have taken more of them...but what ya gonna do? In spite of accidentally sleeping through my priority registration (WHOOPS

!), I was able to get the classes I wanted for the spring semester. My priority was from 7-9am. Think I woke up at 9:05. I don't usually sleep that late anymore either! When I tried at 9:10, they'd locked me out of registration until 7pm that night. I was sure I would never get the classes I wanted.....another opportunity for me to trust God. I get a lot of those! I'll be taking a history class, and a humanities class. What the heck is humanities? The study of humans? Humans and manatees? I really don't know. The humanities class is a two-fer, so it will count for two classes on my record. That's really cool!

I've been busy knitting, crocheting, and other crafting-type business. Not very satisfied with the knitting and crocheting though....guess I'm a bit of a yarn snob. No...I am

positively certain I'm a yarn snob. The stuff at Michael's and Joann's doesn't do it for me. I wind up pulling it all out cause it looks cheap. I'm getting some good practice though. I finally made the strawberry pincushion. Holy cow, it was cute!!! I gave it to Mom so she could take it as a gift to her small quilting group's Christmas pa

rty this week. She was so appreciative! Made me feel good to do something for her for a change. The pictures I took of it really doesn't do it justice. I need a new camera. It is a deeper, richer red, kinda like a cranberry. The stitching detail really doesn't show up well in the photos either. Now that I've made one, it will not be my last. Got to get my hands on some more velvet. I am also currently working on some adorable baby booties. I'd like to get good enough to have my own ETSY account and sell something I make. I've tried this pattern before, and wou

nd up with something that looks custom-made for a deformed baby's foot. Oh...sad....deformed baby feet. Anyway, I'm not going to let the pattern get the best of me! I'll keep you posted! Hey...that's funny! Get it? Posted.....on my blog?? Ok...that was random! Man, am I tired!

Thinking about all of you, especially this time of year, and just praising God that he's given me such wonderful friends and family!

Here's a bit of my favorite comic Brian Regan....

And it just wouldn't be Christmas without the soft glow of electric *bleep* glowing in the window....

Lastly....The Manualist plays "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree"..........

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Interviewin' and booklearnin' and such....

I guess the good side is I'm getting some interview practice. Nope...I didn't get this job either. I didn't want it anyway....so there! On the bright side, school is going really well! I'm especially enjoying my nutrition class, and am always learning interesting little tidbits, like why our poop is brown (dead red blood cells silly...I thought EVERYBODY knew that!). Yes...of course I have to share it with you! Don't you know me at all?? Registration for the Spring semester is almost here. I can't believe it! I'm pretty sure one of the classes I'm going to take is Anthropology. I know...it's all about evolution, but I have the self-control to keep my mouth shut right?.......RIGHT?? :P The other class is still undecided. I wanted to take a math class, but I'd have to have an assessment test first, and I think I've waited too long to get that done. The other one I wanted is Communication 5 or 7. It's like speech, though you don't have to get up in front of the class I'm told. Problem is they don't seem to offer this one in the evening.

My head is swimming with Christmas craft ideas. I find this time of year to be a mix of intense inspiration, and intense pressure. I usually get some of the stuff I want to do done, but often it leaves me asking "Why Kate? Why?" I've never been good at finding a happy medium. I've been knitting for months now, but I have very little to show for my efforts. Let's blame it all on Chris shall we?! He distracts me, I get my count off, then I have to pull it all out. It's happened a bagillion times now! Chris Brown!!! You stinka! I don't have a short attention span, what are you talking about? What was I saying?

I do think I'm officially suffering from some depression. I suppose I've earned the right at this point. Gray days like today don't help! I have wonderful friends though, and you guys keep me sane. By the way, did you know that a rhinoceros horn is made of compacted hair? Well...now you do!

More funny videos.......

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Happy Veteran's Day!

I salute you Sergeant James C. Ford, without whom I would not exist! You're an honorable man, and I'm proud you are my father.

It is hard to believe Thanksgiving is only 2 weeks away! I've decided I want to cook this year. Last year I wasn't having any of it. I'm going to mix it up and try some new things. I've been compiling new recipes, like a new sweet potato casserole, and a baked cauliflower gratin with Gruyere cheese. I'm thinking my Swedish apple pie, and a pumpkin cheesecake for dessert. Just what my thighs need right?! You trying anything new this year? I found a great website called Tastespotting, if you'd like to be inspired. Just don't go there if you're hungry. A major snack attack will ensue. Being full, however, ain't gonna cut it either. Things look yucky when you're full. Find a happy medium.

So Christmas is just around the corner. Ever year I think to myself, I'm going to make my friends and family this or that. I've started knitting a gajillion times, only to lose my count and have to pull it out! I'm so anal!! You'll be lucky if you get a Christmas card! I'm gonna keep trying though....maybe by summer? I really want to find ways to make this Christmas more meaningful. We're all hurting for money! Every store you go into is cramming Christmas down our throats. It shouldn't be about another pair of Isotoner gloves...it's about Jesus! Anyone have any ideas? Fellowship with you is what I want for Christmas! Game nights are fun, and cheap if anyone is up for it! I'll bring the dip!?

Anyway, I'll leave you with these random videos....um...what can I say about the second one? I live with a teenage boy? Stuff rubs off...enjoy!

Stindberg & Helium...

Real Men of Genius... (fyi..that's the lead singer of Survivor singing)

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Don't worry...be happy!

Normally on a day like today, I'd be loving the gray fall skies, and the crisp air. There's a but in here. The house finally sold. I signed the final papers yesterday, and Tim is moving out as I write this. I know, because he called to see if Chris could help him move his things into storage. So now I'm feeling sorry for myself. Lost my husband...lost my job....lost my house. I'll try to count my blessings in a minute, but indulge me a minute to feel lousy ok? This isn't how I'd pictured my life going. I think that's actually part of the problem. I didn't picture my life much at all. I was just blindly living it, innocent, stupid me. I fully trusted the people in my life (no names here) and look was happened. I don't want to turn into a hard, cynical person....but I sure can see how that happens to people. I think I need a good dose of light therapy right now....or lots of color....no, chocolate...where's the chocolate?

The county called me on Monday and informed me I didn't get the position. I had a feeling that was going to happen, after the person conducting the interview told me she was concerned I might be too nice for the job. Big red flag....The same day I got a call from a friend who told me her husband's company was looking for someone full time in an accounts receivable positon. The pay is bad, and the benefits don't sound great either. I sent in my resume, but I'm not sure I want the job. I REALLY wanted to work for the county. What to do...what to do...?

Ok.....enough self-pity! I thought I'd pee my pants the first time I saw this! Enjoy!

Monday, October 20, 2008

Swedish Apple Pie

Here I go with another recipe. Vicki over at Turkey Feathers (see the link at the right) was so kind to site my blog in hers. Mine pales in comparison! She is the creative person I have aspirations of being! I had sent her my recipe for Swedish apple pie. She made it, liked it, and mentioned it on her site. I almost feel famous! Tee-hee! She also took a gorgeous photo of it, if you want to see it. I figured I'd better post the recipe so folks could give it a try. It is easy and it is wonderful...especially served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! Let me know what you think!?

Swedish Apple Pie

4 cups sliced, peeled apples
2 Tabl. Brown sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
½ cup softened butter
¼ tsp. salt
1 cup sugar
1 cup flour
1 egg
1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions: Fill a 9” pie pan with apple slices. Sprinkle with the brown sugar and cinnamon and toss to mix. Mix the butter, sugar, and egg. Cream together with the flour, salt, and nuts. Spread on top of apples (I use my hands to cover evenly). Bake at 350 degrees for 55-60 minutes. I like to serve it warm with vanilla ice cream. I have also doubled the recipe and baked it in a 9 x 13” Pyrex pan. You have to increase the baking time a bit. Makes 6 servings.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

WHOO-HOO!!!!!

I got the interview with the county!! So now I can start worrying about that!!

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Ode to candy corn...

Either you love them or you hate them.

This sickening sweet confection has been been around for a long, long time. Over 100 yea

rs in fact. I used to like to eat them in layers....heck...I still do. They're a little too sweet for adult Kate though. I find myself mindlessly eat through half a bag....then the sugar hits your stomach like a brick and makes you feel like "uughh...what'd I do that for?" Not too mention, they kinda look like human canine teeth from someone with really bad oral habits. The British perhaps? The ingredients seem relatively basic, but I bet if you got them to the right temperature, you'd wind up with a fiberglass speedboat or a swimming noodle or something. They also are coated with carnuba wax. Isn't my car coated with carnuba wax?? Someone told me recently that they used to like them until they heard of someone's house burning down and the only remaining thing was a perfectly intact and untouched bowl of candy corn. Makes you think....

I don't know...the jury's still out on this one. I think I liked them better when I was a kid. I was in Target a week ago, and they have candy corn soda, from the good folks at Jones Soda Company. Chris and I tried it last year and it is a vile concoction! Don't do it! Just don't do it... But I digress....Here is some interesting, or perhaps not-so-interesting trivia on the legendary candy:

**Candy corn has been around for more than 100 years. George Renninger, an employee of the Wunderlee Candy Company, invented the popular confection in the 1880s and Wunderlee became the first to produce the candy. The Goelitz Candy Company (now Jelly Belly Candy Company) started producing the confection in 1900 and still produces candy corn today.

**Originally, candy corn was made of sugar, corn syrup (not HFCS), fondant and marshmallow, among other things, and the hot mixture was poured into cornstarch molds, where it set up. This original mixture is probably where the name of the candy corn-like Mellocreme Pumpkins comes from. The recipe changed slightly over time and there are probably a few variations in recipes between candy companies, but the use of a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, gelatin and vanilla (as well as honey, in some brands) is the standard.

**More than 35 million pounds of candy corn will be produced this year. That equates to nearly 9 billion pieces, which is enough to circle the moon nearly 21 times if laid end-to-end. That alotta corn....

**A serving of candy corn has about 22 pieces and contains 140 calories, no fat.

Just thought you'd like to know......

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Ready for a dramatic rant?

Don't you wish this was real? I'm sorry I've neglected you for so long! English and nutrition and diet therapy have taken my life over this week. Not only do I have a 1,500 wor

d essay to accomplish on

the realities of home in comparision with television families (I know....should be fun I think! LOOOSY....I'm home!!), but I've got my first big exam on Wednesday night. My head is swimming with info on fat-soluble vitamins and peptide bonds! The good news is my English professor liked my last essay and gave me an A! Whoo-hoo! I'm really enjoying essay writing,

and I think I'm good at it too! Should I dump nursing and be a writer? Do they make money? I don't want to be a Danielle Steele or something....her books make my flesh crawl with her descriptions of male anatomy in action....if you get my drift! Book editor sounds really interesting, but I have no idea what that would involve. Would you be an English major then?

Anywho, last week I wasn't feeling well. Conditions were just right for a "perfect storm" scenario. My body was saying---Kate, you stupid, stupid girl! I know how to take care of myself, but do I do it? Part laziness, part busyness, and part hopelessness. Obviously if I was more active, I wouldn't weigh what I currently do. If I wasn't so busy with class and job hunting, and juggling Chris's stuff, maybe I would take the time to cook nutritious meals. I think I'm looking for excuses though. In reality, I punish myself. On a subconscious level, and even more scary--a conscious one. As much as I try to push out the crap that's been stacking up in my life, it creeps in. I miss Tim, and I'm dreaming about him all the time. I worry that I'm never going to get another chance with him, or anyone else. I don't want to be alone for the rest of my life. Pain is always there...it never leaves me. I've got tears running down my face as I type this. Why should I take care of this worthless person? I tell myself--do it for Chris, Kate....but someday he's going to make his own way and I'm what will remain. Wow...am I hormonal or what!! Sorry to be such a Debbie Downer! Shake it off Kate...shake it off! As I was saying, I wasn't feeling well. I was very sick 10 years ago when I ruptured a hole in my colon. I'll spare you an image of diverticula (although for a brief moment I considered it...but I want you to come back to my blog!) I healed from my surgeries beautifully, and I really have not had many issues in the last decade. Last week, however, I felt the telltale pinch. I remember it well. Right before I lost my medical benefits due to my current unemployed state, I saw my dear, sweet doctor--Stacy Nuccion at Kaiser. Love her!! She is so awesome! She told me if I needed her for any reason to call, whether I had benefits or not. I got her office on the phone and explained that I knew the necessity of getting on antibiotics right away, so she called them into Walmart for me, and told me to go to bed for a couple of days. Now, normally the idea of being in bed like that sounds kinda appealing....read a good

book....some magazines.....television.....but when you're in pain? Not so much fun... And have you seen daytime television?? Do they really think we're idiots?! No thank you! Somewhere in here I should probably put in a paragraph. Another precursor to this flare-up was the fact that Tim's grandma got me al

l upset. We had a garage sale with his grandparents. They live in a mobile home park in Calistoga, so garage sales aren't very successful for them. When they heard we were going to have one, they asked if they could join in. No problem. Well....the topic, as grandma and I were sitting there, of Tim and I came up. At the time, I successfully changed the subject. But......she called me a couple days later and said "You know what Katy...have you ever though of just talking to Tim and seeing why he wants this divorce?" You have got to be KIDDING ME!!!? I told her I've begged...I've pleaded....I've groveled...I've humilated myself...I've cried a buttload ( I didn't say that to her....but you can picture me doing it can't you?!) of tears. Nothing. He won't go to a counselor...Christian or otherwise....he wouldn't see my pastor who was so willing to help us in any way he could (he even offered to pay for a weekend away for a Christian couples retreat!)....nothing. He's just done. Stubborn, stupid man!! Aarrgh!! Her answer was "oh....well....we'll just keep praying then." I know she loves me, and thinks of me as her granddaughter, but gosh that woman stirred me up! And of course.....what happens next? That's right....I get my period! Of course!! Nuf said. The perfect storm! And Dude!! Do antibiotics give you heartburn or what?? I gotta take better care of myself. Just have to....

I continue to hunt for a job...so far...unsuccessfully. It's very discouraging, and I worry that my family is thinking I'm sitting up here on the second floor with my feet up watching tv and eating chocolate bonbons. I'm not....at least not the tv part. I eat to feel numb...I've said that.....Chris's birthday is at the end of the month....Christmas is going to be here before we know it! I'm glad God's in control cause I don't seem to be! Wish he'd clue me in a little...

Goodness.....I've gone on...and on...and on....Thanks for reading my rant.....what's new with you?

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Yum!

Well....nothing very interesting going on around here, so how about a recipe to put you in a fall frame of mind?

Apple-Walnut Cake With Cider Sauce

Ingredients:

2 cups sugar

1 cup plus 2 Tbsp vegetable oil

1/4 cup apple cider

3 large eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp each cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

3 cups flour

2 large Granny Smith apples (3 1/2 cups), peeled, cored and chopped in small chunks

1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts

Cider Sauce ingredients:

2 cups apple cider

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 Tbsp cornstarch

1 Tbsp butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 10" tube pan with removable tube insert (Note: ok....who in the heck has this? I used a bundt pan and it worked perfectly. A 9 x 13 glass Pyrex would probably suffice as well) with nonstick spray.

Whisk sugar, oil, apple cider, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda and salt in a large bowl until blended.

Stir in flour until blended. Stir in apples and walnuts.

Scrape mixture into prepared pan. Bake 1 hour and 10 to 20 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick comes out clean.

Let cool in pan on wire rack for 1 hour. Remove from pan and let cool on rack.

Cider Sauce: I must confess....I made this cider sauce, and it never thickened up. It tasted great, but I didn't serve it...you may wish to just skip it, or experiment with more cornstarch...who knows!? Whisk cider, brown sugar and cornstarch in a medium saucepan until blended. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, whisking occasionally. Boil 1 minute or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla; stir until butter melts. Let cool to warm or refrigerate until serving.

It was really yummy! I refrigerated the cake after we'd had a piece, so it didn't start growing fur.....cause it's preservative free don't ya know.....

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

So cute!

My Heather Bailey strawberry pincushion kit finally came! I can't wait to make it! Isn't it adorable? It doesn't take much to excite me I guess!

Saturday, September 6, 2008

Graffiti and swimsuits.....

The bands are taking a trip to Santa Clara at the end of this school year. They are going to perform at Great America. Chris has to earn money in order to pay for his trip. Close to $300. I'd like to go, so double this number. Chris and I had the opportunity to earn some cash for his music account today by participating in graffiti removal. So we go to school early in the morning and meet up with the other kids and parents. We get the equipment, and off we drive to some various bridges in Santa Rosa. We climb down some rocky hills, careful to avoid the poison oak and blackberry vines along the way. Today I guess there wasn't as much graffiti and trash as usual. Saw a couple crack spoons and some napkins smeared with blood or poop. Eeewww! We just left those....I did enjoy catching up with my friend Cherry, who accompanied Chris and I. Poor Cherry though....after all his hard work, Chris took off his gloves to put in the garbage bag she was holding. Problem was he had sweat profusely in them, and proceeded in the act of removing them to flick sweat all over her! Bless her heart! She politely said with a smile "It's ok Chris." Climbing back up the rocky hill proved to be more difficult than getting down. A blackberry vine grabbed skin on my ankle while my son accidentally goosed me by pushing his mother's tushie as she struggled to gain footing. Thanks Chris! Such a good helper...... ;)

When I got home I made plans with my friend Alicia to find her a new swimsuit, since her's spontaneous combusted earlier in the week. Hehe....she knows what I mean! Anyway, we went to a bunch of stores and finally found some shorts to go with a swimtop she already had. It was on sale for like $1.50! Big score! Now watch it turn the water black or dissolve or something! Anybody know any good swimsuit sales?

I've been wasting way to much time and having so much fun on this Facebook thing! If you're not on, get with the program people! It is a hoot! I was on earlier this evening with one of the 7th grade girls from RVCS. She asked to chat with me cause she needed boy advice. Me?? Boy advice?? Um.....don't have a very good track record here. Real adorable of her to ask though! I think she was hoping I'd tell her to go ahead and confess her undying affection for him, but I did just the opposite. I told her junior high boys (sorry Chris!) are just kinda stupid at this age. Now watch her go to school and tell the boys what Mrs. Brown said! Me and my big mouth! I told her to hold back her confession. Better to wait until she's older.....like after she's grown....out of college maybe....has a career...am I wrong? Do I sound bitter? Me??

Anyway, that was my adventures for the day. You?

Monday, September 1, 2008

Pretty in....plaid?

Well....what do you think? I wanted a change from the brown, and we all know it's a woman's prerogative to change her mind right? I can always go back!

Well....another week went by without word from the county. Feeling discouraged. I applied at a few other places to, but no call backs yet.

So far school is going well...I think. English is a lot of work, and despite her claims to the contrary, am finding my teacher not to be on top of her correspondence. She always takes a week to get back to me and I do not like that! She had each of us in the class make a blog specifically to respond to the different assignments we're doing. She wants us to respond to each other's blogs as well. I've looked at all 30 of them, and the only time someone has left a comment it is from.....you guessed it....me! No one else has responded yet. Am I missing something, or am I the only diligent student? Frustrating. Have to write a summary of "The Monument and the Bungalow" today. That should be fun....not!

The nutrition class is interesting in spite of my teacher. He is really difficult to take notes from. Luckily I record him on my little Sony recorder. I'm not sure if that will help or not. The only homework we've had with him is reading. He assigns 2 chapters to read every week. This is about 60 pages. Luckily I like to read and I like the subject matter.

I wanted to share a recipe with y'all (not southern, but I'd make a good one I think...although I don't like heat!):

Corn and radish salad

4 ears of corn

6 radishes, halved and thinly sliced

1/4 red onion, sliced thinly

1/2 to 1 whole jalapeno, seeded and minced finely

2 Tabl. fresh lime juice

2 Tabl. extra virgin olive oil

sea salt & freshly ground pepper

Cook the corn on the cob in a large pot of salted water for 12 minutes. Drain and cool. When cool, slice the kernels off the cob and put into a medium bowl. Add radish, onion, and jalapeno to taste. In a small bowl, mix the lime juice and olive oil together and pour over the salad. Salt and pepper to taste.

I have added a touch of soy, and some sugar to this as well, so if you feel you'd like to, be free to experiment. It is a nice summer salad. Cool and refreshing. I like it cold....

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Nutrition and Diet Therapy....

My classes started this week. My online English class is going to be a challenge I think. I don't mind a challenge. In fact, bring it on in most cases. I hope I can be disciplined enough to do the work on the computer and not monkey around ( have found so many awesome crafting blogs lately!) The first passage the teacher has us reading is so dry. I've taken to reading it out loud to myself so I can absorb it better. Feel like a big dufus! I'm concerned!

Last night was the FDNT class, which stands for nutrition and diet therapy. How come it isn't NTDT then? Just wondering...Anyway, my teacher is a nutritionist at Sutter. Nice mellow fellow. He doesn't care if we eat....he doesn't care if we drink....we can sit in the back and text on our cellphones if we want...he doesn't care. Do I need to come to class at all then?? Oh, and another thing, Mr. Nutritionist is a big ol' fat guy. Kind of hurts his credibility when it comes to this subject doesn't it? Guess he REALLY enjoys nutrition. So far I think it's going to be easy peasy...

Here's a coincidence for you. My very first boss...I'm talking high school at Mount Gilead...she's taking the class too. It was really nice to see her. We kind of recognized each other at the same time. It will be nice to know someone in the class.

Anywho....not much happening on the job front. I was warned that I may not get called about an interview with the county until September because the Governator can't get a budget passed. I spent a very long time exploring the Kaiser job listings. Apparently the only thing I have a shot at there is in the cafeteria. I'm bummed about that! I also was contacted by a company that wants me to be an insurance salesman to the elderly. Uh....no thank you! The hunt continues!

I have been having really bizarre dreams lately. I told a couple of you, but I'll tell the rest... I dreamt that I was in the bathroom next to the school office of the small elementary school I went to as a kid. Mom was the school secretary. I spent many a summer being bored out of my skull there. I know that place like the back of my hand (which, by the way, is a really weird thing to say! Do people really spend a lot of time staring at the back of their hands??....getting off the subject....). Anyway, so I go into the bathroom and go into one of the stalls. Then I notice that all around me are loaves of bread....different kinds.....and huge sizes. Then Greg Seeger (one of the teachers at RVCS, the school I have worked at for the last 8 years) comes in and gets in the stall next to me. We proceed to have a conversation about the unusually large slices of bread that surround us. I'm not disturbed by a man being in the stall next to me. He is completely at ease as well. Weird! That's my dream....no...really...that's it.....anyone care to take a crack at translating it?

I'm unusual....I realize....

Have an awesome day!

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Inquiring minds want to know..

1. Why do they sterilize needles before lethal injections?

2. Whose cruel idea was it to have an s in the word lisp?

3. If Fed Ex and UPS combined...would they become Fed UP?

4. If someone owns a piece of land, do they own it all the way to the center of the Earth?

5. Why is it said that an alarm clock is going off when it is really going on?

6. Why did Sally sell seashells on the seashore when you can just pick them up anyway?

7. Why are both of Spongebob's parents round like sea sponges while he is square like a kitchen sponge?

8. Why do people constantly return to the refrigerator with hopes that something new to eat will have materialized?

9. Why is it that no matter what color bubble bath you use the bubbles are always white?

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

I passed!!

Whoo-Hoo!

Got an email from the county regarding my examination. I got a 90%, which places me 5th out of those 40 some-odd people. I'm pleased with myself, but I really have to give God the credit because I prayed throughout the entire examination. The email said they would send a separate email if they wanted to interview me. So more waiting I guess.....but I got a 90%!! Who woulda thunk it!

Had a good birthday. My sister, my boy and I headed to Stinson Beach for the day. Must be the wrong time of year to find shells... we saw a bunch of jellyfish though...which we poked with our flip-flops. Jiggly! Told Chris he'd have to pee on me if I got stung, which I will admit I learned from an episode of Friends. TV......our most important teacher! Not sure he took me seriously...

When we got home we had a lovely meal at Flavor with Mom and Dad. Mom must have mention to Charles (he's the chef) that it was my birthday, cause they really spoiled us! After that Judy, Chris, and I went to the movies and saw The Mummy. Entertaining I guess....but I can't say I'd recommend it. It was pretty out there....like the last two mummy movies were realistic right?!

Got to do some very badly needed clothes shopping with birthday money the next day! That was fun! My sweetie-pie son got me season 3 of The Office....a show we both love! All in all it was pretty fun! 39....and holding...............................................................

Can't believe school is about to start again. Poor Chris is going to be walking around like a zombie that first week! He's been sleeping in sooooo late this summer....teenage hormones I suppose.... I'll be back at the JC too. One online class in English and one on diet and nutrition......I think I'm going to enjoy both! I just hope I still get to have time for swimming!

Monday, August 11, 2008

Not aimed at anyone in particular....:)

stop worrying!

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

More stalling....and a fear of Staff infection....

Good evening!

I'm finding it difficult to blog these days, mostly because I feel like I'm boring! Yes...I still need to find myself a new job. No, I have not heard from the county about my test yet. I hope I did well, but the reality is that even if I did pass, there were 40+ other men and women who may have passed as well. I've been told those who do pass are ranked by how well they did, and then offered positions accordingly...as they come up.

I've emotionally worked myself up so much about getting another job, that I'm having a difficult time tackling it. My dear sister whom I love and I know loves me (Hi Jude!) comes over and shows me all of these places to apply and post my resume...etc. It so much easier when you're on the other side of it isn't it? I just want to hide under my covers! Why am I like this? No one is going to call me and say "Hi Kate, I have this position that I think would be perfect for you! Would you please do me a favor and come work for me??" Not reality! Just tv.......

I will say that I did sign up with Monster.com and they've been sending me positions. One looked really good until I realized it was in Sausalito. Not gonna happen!

I tried to give myself a birthday present tonight by getting my 2nd hole in my left ear repierced. I let it heal years ago. Chris and I were in the Santa Rosa Plaza (I HATE that mall! Why does my son love it so much??) and I saw a jewelry store. Something triggered the desire to have this done, but none of the jewelry stores will do it. They kept telling me to go to some kiosk in the mall called the "Piercing Pagoda". How scary does that sound? I really don't want to contract an infection for my birthday! So, anyway, we tracked it down and I inquired about having it repierced, but the teenager manning the kiosk was not comfortable repiercing. Needless to say, I wasn't comfortable either. Anybody know where I can have it done safely? Do I really have to go to someplace like Claire's??

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Whoops!

Guess I hit "off" instead of "snooze" this morning. I woke up about 10 minutes after church started. I always feel so guilty when I miss it! Anyway, guilt isn't what I want to feel today.....I'll try to redeem the day for myself!

I spent much of yesterday studying a book about civil service exams. Took a few of the practice tests. I understand now why they want you to take the official exam first thing in the morning. The first one was easy-peasy.....but as the day progressed, fatigue influenced my scores. I will take the math one today. This is the one I worry about most. Hey, at least I know I can do math through a sixth grade level. That sounds kinda pathetic doesn't it?

Today is Tim's grandparents 65th wedding anniversary party. 65th!! Amazing! I'm so sad I'm not allowed to be there. My son is there...I'm not. It's times like these that remind me of what a tremendous loss I'm suffering. So sad. I did manage to send them a card, which they received because I called grandma to ask her for her fried green tomato recipe. They're southern, and she makes the best ones ever! At least they don't treat me like I'm the enemy. It also reminds me that I never will have an anniversary like this one. Our 18th anniversary just passed. Wish I could have celebrated it with him instead of trying to distract myself all day.

Lost a few pounds this week. When I saw my doctor the last time, she suggested that I have an entire glass of water each time before I eat to trick my mind into feeling a sense of fullness. I think it's helping. I didn't go to the pool at all last week. I've really been feeling tired. I think mostly because I opened daycamp for Russ twice last week, so that meant waking up at 5am. I guess I'm just not used to it. May have to get used to it when I get my new job......

What's up with you?

Monday, July 21, 2008

Hello all..........

How are we today? I am good. Not great, but certainly not bad....just good. That's ok. Some of you know that I applied for a office job with the county. Well, they email me back with a "Based on your application, you have qualified for testing.....yada...yada.." So next Wednesday, I have to go to Petaluma for said testing. 8:30am. I was feeling really excited about it until a friend of my son's, who's parents both work for the county told me that it took 5 months from testing for his mom to secure her job there. I truly hope that is not the case for me! I can't wait 5 months! I have a kid in private school! Pray for me please!!!

I realize I need to not put all of my eggs in one basket, however, so I will be venturing out more to do so. It's been hard with day camp and all. I'm starting with Kaiser. I visited my doctor last week to have her check under the hood before I lose my benefits. I told her my current circumstances....my current pain in my left shoulder blade....my hair loss....etc. She said "You're stressed out!" Thank you Captain Obvious! No...I didn't actually say that....cause I like the woman! She is so awesome! I thought about it though! Anyway, she told me where to go to get to the Kaiser business office, and was very encouraging about it. So...I will try. I realize I should be moving faster, but I can only cope with small steps I'm afraid. It will be ok......

On another note, did you know that there are 18 different animal shapes in the Animal Crackers cookie box? Just thought you'd want to know.....

Thirdly, (I know....brilliant segway Kate) my garden is doing well, in spite of our odd weather this summer. Is it going to be hot? Is it going to be cold? Who the heck knows!? Yes, I realize it is slightly sad that my photography these days revolve around vegetables, but they are so neato! And I grew them myself! I made the most awesome tomato basil soup with my basil and zucchini. I know! Rachel Ray watch out! Let me know if you'd like the recipe....

Have a wonderful evening! I'm on vacation for two days! Whoo-Hoo!

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Happy Tuesday everybody! My sister sent me these wise, wise words.......

None of that Sissy Crap

Are you tired of those sissy 'friendship' poems that always sound good,

but never actually come close to reality?

Well, here is a series of promises that actually speak of true friendship.

You will see no cutesy little

Smiley faces on this card-

Just the stone cold truth of our great friendship.

1. When you are sad --I will jump on the person who made you sad like a spider monkey jacked up on Mountain Dew!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2. When you are blue -- I will try to dislodge whatever is choking you.

3. When you smile -- I will know you are plotting something that I must be involved in.

4. When you're scared -- we will high tail it out of here.

5. When you are worried -- I will tell you horrible stories about how much worse it could be until you quit whining, ya big baby!!!!

6. When you are confused -- I will use little words.

7. When you are sick --Stay away from me until you are well again. I don't want whatever you have.

8. When you fall -- I'll pick you up and dust you off.

9. This is my oath...I pledge it to the end. 'Why?' you may ask -- because you are my FRIEND!

Friendship is like

peeing your pants,

everyone can see it,

but only you can feel the true warmth.

Friday, July 4, 2008

Happy Fourth of July!

We have no plans to see fireworks tonight, as we went to the field at Montgomery High School last night to watch them go off at the fairgrounds. It is a perfect place to do so, and you don't have to fight any crowds...especially in the parking lot. Chris and I took Mom with us. She froze! Note for next year...blankets! blankets! blankets! It was really nice though...we all had a great time! Tonight we're playing Lord of the Rings Monopoly! I am sooo going to win! Chris thinks he's winning....yeah right!

I actually cooked today! I know....what's up with that!? I made homemade tomato basil soup, with basil from my own garden no less. It was amazing! Not a Weight Watcher recipe....it had heavy cream in it. I also had a head of cabbage, so I made coleslaw from the KFC recipe I found online. It was exactly like theirs. To finish the meal, I made Swedish apple pie. Haven't had it yet, because we're all full of soup and foccacia bread, but I think it's a winner too! I'm so impressed with myself!

Hope your holiday is going swimmingly! That's my word for the day......

Saturday, June 28, 2008

He's home!

Yeah! Chris is home! I picked him up this morning. He was tired, and a tad ripe, but he seemed to have had a jam-packed week of fun....boy flatulence...girl's passing notes...mud pit wrestling....4 in the morning pranks....etc. All in all, sounded like your typical week of camp!

Yesterday I decided to split the kids into two teams for craft time. I gave each team a roll of aluminum foil, told them to pick one team member, and fashion that person into the Statue of Liberty. The winning team got some cool prizes! I even brought candy for the losing team. Now...is it me, or does it seem like people are not teaching their children how to have good manners anymore? Not one of them thanked me afterwards, and the second place team even complained that they didn't like the candy they received. How frustrating is that? I didn't have to get them anything! Unfortunately, I've been doing this long enough to know that this is the typical response. It's really sad.....What's even worse is when I've spent literally hours preparing a project, and they immediately come in complaining that they aren't going to like it. Seems like the younger ones are better than the older kids. Am I really asking for too much? Just common manners and respect!? Perhaps it's this privileged area we live in?

On a lighter subject, a group of my friends and I went to Coldwater Creek Spa for pedicures yesterday afternoon. What an amazing experience! My nails are pretty...no?

What's up with you?

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Cab withdrawal, Uncle Sam, and baby veggies....

What do these things have in common? This has been the stuff my week has been made of. Half the week is over, and I'm missing Chris terribly. I know he's having fun though, and I saw a picture with him in the background on the Mount Gilead website, so that made me feel better. Looked like he was going swimmin'! I sent him a care package with a really stupid note attached....of course in hopes that they'd make him open it and read it in front of everyone. I've heard they've been known to do this! Am I a mean mommy or what?!

The Uncle Sam pictured to the right is one of the crafts I'm going to have the kids do tomorrow. I think he's pretty cute. I didn't pick identical googly eyes however, so it looks like Uncle Sam on crack. Uncle Sam after a visit to the eye doctor to get his eyes dilated? You be the judge. The younger kids are going to have a choice of three crafts. He's one of the choices. The other two are a patriotic dog tag (thank goodness for Oriental Trading!), or an American flag safety pin. I decided I'd let the older kids do something different. I'm going to have them separate into two teams, and pick one person per team to envelop in aluminum foil. Their goal is to make that person into the Statue of Liberty. I even have a cardboard cone they can fashion into the torch. Hopefully no blood will be shed! The winning team will get disciple dollars, candy, and a glow wand. Not too shabby! I think it's going to be hysterical. I'm bringing the camera, so I'll post some pictures.

I've felt really funky this week! I think part of it is this horrible smoke in our California air! Hope the fires get contained soon! I can't believe how bad it is, and we aren't even very close to them! The poor people who are! That last night of our recent camping trip, we were awakened by thunder, and downpours of rain. Didn't see any lightning, but I guess there must have been a lot....now our state's on fire! I'm hoping that since Chris is closer to the coast, perhaps it's better where he is!

Ok, so on another note, my veggies are starting to pop out. I'm so skilled at switching topics! I've got a bunch of zucchini, a couple of peppers, and a smattering...yes, you heard me....a smattering of tomatoes. Fun! There so cute and little that I want to name them. Bob the tomato? No Larry the cucumber yet. I do have Raul and Ramon the bell peppers. They had to have a rather Latin, spicy name... What's a good name for a zucchini? Must be pretty darn tired to be naming my vegetables. How about Zelda? Zelda zucchini? Zachary? Can't think of any other Z names right now.....Perhaps we will visit this on another day....

Oh...yes....looks like we have a buyer for the Spring Creek house. The realtor jokingly said that it was so quick because he's such a great agent. I know the truth! It's God. I've been praying for a buyer...He provided one. Hope it goes through! Still a short sale, and I don't completely know all the legal, or tax ramifications, but I'm just gonna pray about that too.....

Now I need a job....

How was your week?

Sunday, June 22, 2008

My baby's at camp....boo hoo!

I miss him already! I know it's only a week....and he's gonna have an awesome time....but....but...ok... I guess I'll be fine....sniffle.....

Chris's cabin is full of his friends from church. This week's theme for junior high camp is "Uncle Gil's Barnyard Fiasco". It will be interesting to hear how this entertained kids of this somewhat, shall we dare say jaded?, age. When we drove into Mount Gilead's long frontage road there was a group of young adults in barnyard costumes waving at the parents and their campers. Pigs, sheep, cows. Dude! It was pretty cute! Hope it's an awesome, life-changing week! I warned Chris's youth pastor about his sleepwalking...just in case.

Chris and I just got back from a camping trip to Manchester Beach. We had a great time, in spite of Chris having a juicy cold. We got thunder and lightning, as well as a touch of rain on the last night. Glad we opted for the cabin instead of a tent!

We saw a movie at the Arena Theater in Point Arena. What a great theater! It's been remodeled to be art deco inside and out. We were greeted by an older woman in the tiny ticket booth....escorted into the building by an equally elderly woman.....and purchased our consession snacks from what had to be a married couple. At least they bickered like one! Too funny! Wish we'd known about this place before! It was so neat! Oh...by the way...we saw "Get Smart" with Steve Carrell. Pretty good! We love Steve Carrell!

It was a fun trip! I had to quickly wash Chris's clothes and repack him for camp today, then make the drive out to Mount Gilead. I'm pooped! I need a vacation from my vacation!

I know I haven't been very good about writing lately. I didn't want this blog to just sound negative all the time. I will be honest. Life has really been tough lately. I'm trying to walk the line of what is healthy for me to get out of my system, and what you, as my reading audience, would enjoy reading. The only person who seems to write back to me is my sister though....so maybe I don't have an audience after all.

I still don't have a resume put together. I will admit to stalling. Partly because my crappy self esteem says I don't have any skills that would land me a GOOD job, partly because I can't face leaving my old job and moving on, partly something else that I haven't figured out yet. What am I to do with myself?

On another note....I have absolutely no idea what I'm going to have the kids do for craft at daycamp tomorrow! Yikes! Ideas? Anyone? Jude?

Sunday, June 1, 2008

School's out...now what?!

Such duality to my feelings right now! I've been looking forward to school being out, but I'm also filled with a sense of dread. I spent much of my last week in tears. Everyone kept coming up to me asking how I was, and what my plans were. I know they meant well, but my emotions where constantly being stirred up! I've run out of excuses. Now I have to put the resume together, and actually find that job! I'm working at day camp for the next two months, then I'm out of money and benefits. Really scary! To add to the heap, I had to get a root canal last Friday. $1,475!! I also have to get a post and crown this week. More $$. How's the saying go? When it rains it pours....I'm feeling a bit persecuted to say the least. I think God's preparing me for something.....just wish He'd clue me in!

Monday, May 26, 2008

My baby...

I forgot to mention the Spring Concert at school. Chris did such a great job! I was so proud of him! He was actually the only boy you could hear clearly in the 7th grade boys choir. Who knew he could sing?! He received two music awards during chapel (nobody thought to go get me so I could actually watch!). And will you stop telling me what a lady killer he's going to be? Much too scary for me to think about! He does clean up well though...I will admit!

Seeds of change....

After much wallowing in self-pity soup, I decided I needed to do something fun and constructive at the same time. Today I planted a vegetable garden! I'm so tired, but it felt really good to have this distraction! Hope you like tomatoes...chances are you'll be getting some this summer. I planted 5 varieties of heirlooms...the weirder the better! I also planted eggplant, zucchini, summer squash, 2 heirloom cucumbers, something called a chocolate bell pepper, basil (gonna make pesto!), lemon thyme (mostly for rubbing between my fingers and smelling!), and rosemary to attract the bees! A blue scrub jay was very interested in the goings on! He got so close to me. Probably planning where he was going to store his seeds! We will see about that!

Now how do I keep the neighborhood kitties from using the beds as their own personal potty? As much as I hate to admit it, my Dad's habit of using chicken wire may have to be the answer, unattractive as it may be. Anyone have ideas? Tried cayenne pepper and orange peel...didn't work for me in the past. Don't even suggest deer pee! Not gonna buy a dog either!

Saturday, my sis Jude and I hopped in her car and drove West. It was gloomy, but we didn't care. Breakfast was first on the agenda. We went to this little hole in the wall on the way out to the coast. I think it was still considered to be Sebastopol. I've driven by the structure many times, but never stopped. It recently changed hands, and is now called "St. Rose". If they had posted the menu on the outside, we probably would have moved on...but they didn't, so we went in. A neat, eccentric little place. Pricey, but with a neat sense of whimsy! The table was set so nicely, with cloth napkins, silver place settings, and these pretty glasses filled with cucumber and mint water. It was really refreshing! Gonna try it at home! The menu was quirky....with things like "Satan's breakfast", which consisted of Lucky Charms and half and half. This was $6 by itself, so don't go if you're thrifty. I had polenta, with country ham and roasted asparagus. Jude had potato chip omelet with avocado crema and pimenton (turns out this is a fancy way of saying paprika...but that would have been boring!). Both were really good! I must say, I really enjoyed their bathroom as well! Sophisticated and cute at the same time! It doesn't take much to excite me does it?! They had a lot of fresh flowers throughout. Neat place! I'd go back again. Because of the location, it probably won't last though. Too bad! Hmm....career as a food critic?? Probably not good for the waistline!

After breakfast, we drove a short bit down the road to Rose & Thorn nursery and gift shop. This too was a bit pricey, but they had beautiful plants! I bought several. They also have Pygmy goats! Judy arranged for them to consign her cards. Her website is : http://kaleidoskapesbyjude.com/.
She uses photos that she's taken, and turns them into these really cool kaleidoscope pictures. Mostly from picture from Hawaii, and Sonoma. They're really cool! Check her out!

We then headed down the road a bit further to a farm stand. I think it belonged to someone named Bob. Nice variety of organic fruit and veggies. I bought vegetarian jerky. I know...I know....what was I thinking? One word....yuck! Next time I'll pass!

When we got back home, Mom needed to head out to Kaiser to pick up some medication. I talked her into going to Home Depot afterwards. It was raining, so we used my huge IKEA umbrella. Not a good idea to have someone under 5' hold the umbrella. I got it in the eye a few times.....stupid me! I did load up on the veggies for my little garden though. Fun!

Chris and I went to see the new Indiana Jones movie on Sunday. He liked it a lot! I didn't, but I will reserve my opinion as to not ruin it for you!

All in all, a pretty full weekend! I'm getting good at forcing out the stuff I don't want to think about. Job hunting! Double yuck!

So how are you?

Saturday, May 10, 2008

Again....it is what it is....

I had a feeling...deep down in my gut. I didn't want to face it. I kept telling myself not to go there. As of the end of the month, I guess I am no longer an RVCS employee. Even with my suspicions, I am devastated. I love my job....I'm good at my job. The economy is taking a tremendous toll on our precious little school.

So now what? I need to force myself out of my fear and figure this out. Another job? Where? A part-time job, and part-time school scenario? What about benefits? My son is 13. He needs benefits! School full-time so I can finish quicker? How do I pay for it? Again...what about benefits? What to do...what to do? My job was one of a very few stabilizing factors in my life right now. Not what I needed, that's for certain.

I didn't handle the news well in regards to Weight Watchers either. I pretty much blew it for the last two days. I don't understand why change sends me off the edge. Then I start the cycle of self-abuse all over again. Frustrating!

In other news....who new face-painting was soooo exhausting?! I was wiped out!

So how was your week?

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Busy...busy...busy...

This time of year things always start to heat up. Some good...some bad. What an overwhelming week it has been. I have two more weeks of biology class. I have to write two more papers, and start studying for the final exam. Looks like a tough one! I had to pass on swimming Tuesday night because it was Chris's spring concert at RVCS. What a wonderful concert it was though! I'm so proud of my son! He is awesome! I'm also passing on swimming tonight in order to hopefully accomplish at least half of one of my papers, which I'm bummed about because I love it so much! I also need to track down some face paint. Tomorrow is the math fair at school, and I guess I'm the face painter. Our supplies don't look sufficient however, so I need to find some more. Any idea where I can find this? Too bad it's not Halloween....

There are only two and a half more weeks of RVCS as well. Chris has projects and finals looming too. Looks like we're going to flip a coin to see who gets the computer this weekend...

Good news! I did get my online class I was hoping to get for the summer. Reading and composition. Hope I like it!

The economy is taking it's toll on our wonderful school. Today I find out if I have a job next year. I'm just going to trust whatever God has planned for me. At least....I'm really going to try to!

What to get Mom for Mother's Day? That's a tough one too! Ideas anyone?

Ok! Most of you know that I have the kindergarteners at lunch time every day. It's my Lunchbunch! As is often the case, they say amazing things! I've changed the names to protect the innocent (tee-hee!)--

Johnny: Mrs. Brown?
Kate: Yes Johnny?
Johnny: I think there's a mother flea on my lunchbag.
Kate: Oh really? How do you know it's a mother flea?
Johnny: Well....because it has 6 legs.
Kate: Do father fleas have more or less?
Johnny: Oh! Many more!

Separate conversation overheard--
Joey: You love your brother don't you Janie?
Janie: If you're in love with your brother, that's called "incest"!
Kate: (quickly trying to dodge a bullet...) So...who likes cookies?

After lunch I'm in with the third grade class.
Here's a conversation in there--
Arthur: Mrs. Brown?
Kate: Yes Arthur?
Arthur: My back hurts...right here....(he points)
Kate: Well Arthur...I did see you pick up Wendell during recess. Maybe you pulled something when you did that? You shouldn't pick him up...he's the same size you are. You have to protect your back.
Arthur: My dad picks up weights all the time.
Kate: Does your dad wear a weight belt when he does that?
Arthur: Yes...
(He pauses.....thinking loudly to himself)
Arthur: Tomorrow I'll bring a weight belt.

Have a wonderful day!