Soup Weather

White Bean and Ham Soup


2 -3 lbs ham bone-in (we had ham earlier this week and saved the bone and cut up the meat)
1 bag Great Northern White Beans
1-2 15 oz cans White beans (depending on how thick and bean-y you like your soup) (optional)
1 carrot diced small
1 celery rib sliced thin (optional)


Follow directions for cleaning and soaking dry beans. I usually do this in the crockpot so I don't have to clean two things.

To start the soup put about 6 cups of water in the crockpot with the soaked beans. NOTE: You may have to add water to the beans during cooking depending on how quickly they soak up the water - keep it at about the 6 cup level. Put the ham bone in and put the lid on, stir occassionally. Cook on low for 4 -5 hours until the beans are soft and ham is very tender. Add carrot and celery about 1 hour before it is done. (Take out one bean and if it is al dente then it is time to add the carrot and celery.) Salt and pepper to taste. If you want a thicker soup continue to cook for 1 hour more adding the canned beans add the start of that hour.

Serve with a nice salad and crusty French or sourdough bread.

Tis the Season

As my family well knows, I have a serious sweet tooth. My friend Stefani's mother-in-law is a master candy maker and shares her recipes, which always surprises me. She sends samples too which make it hard to resist an invitation. Today I went over and we made Caramel Marshmallows and Peanut Brittle, more than a little good! I had a sample of her licorice and can I tell you fresh made black licorice is NOTHING like the Red Vine stuff: it was soooo good!! We've made candy for the past 5 years and the recipes just keep getting better. We discovered one easy shake with sea salt makes the caramels so good you can't stop eating them - I mean it: I'm still eating them as I type. My keyboard is a mess! The recipe for the caramels is involved and it takes about an hour from start to finish with two people. If you want me to post it let me know.

Crockpot Ham

Sunday we had my nephew, David, and his girlfriend, Xuehui (shoe-hoy), over for a pre-Christmas dinner. Since we had church and about 5 other things to do I opted for a ham. I thought throw it in the oven, glaze it and done. Then I was talking to Debbie and she gave me this great recipe (thanks much sis!). I don't know where it originated but it's easy and really good.

Crockpot Ham

1 6 to 9 lb ham
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup maple syrup
2 cups pineapple juice

Put the ham in the crockpot on low for 4 to 5 hours (mine was in for about 7 and it was great!). Add the other ingredients in order and forget it. You can baste it after 2 hours if you want. We did and it had a nice tang all over. Serve hot.

We served it with basmati rice, fresh cut pineapple and Hawaiin rolls (of course!). Ham and pineapple just go together!

Later this week we'll have ham and white bean soup!!! I love ham!!

I got the Whole World in My Hands -- Come on Sing with ME!

I told everyone I would post a couple of pics from our Winter Book Fair. Well, the top one is of the 4 1/2 ft tall world I made from a paper mache' balloon. Many frustrations were had and much time was given to making the world what it isn't any way - round. The pic below is of my rendering of Victoria Falls and a Banyan Tree. The tree was actually a lot of fun to do because it was the last thing and I was just shoving it out and it turned out very cute. The next fair will be much easier as we are doing super heroes. I can sew capes with the best of them!!

It's only the First Day...., "Help!", she says to the Universe.

Today was the first official day of Christmas break. Already I want to choke two of my kids. Listening skills have been thrown out the door and are in a wet soggy heap in the middle of my street being run over repeatedly by passing cars. I have had to ask for things to be done innumerable - and I mean that literally not that figurative, "I've had to ask them 3 or 4 times.". I am so close to the edge that I'm in fear of sneezing and going over the edge. I'm not a newbie parent, really, I'm not. I understand Christmas excitement. I understand the lint on your shirt is more interesting than I am and my voice isn't what it used to be. As one child stated to me, "In the infinite expanse of the universe really can anyone be heard?". I love they are so smart but wish they weren't quite so fresh.

I am SO bragging!

I wrapped gifts like an elf today. I mailed 3 packages at a sub-station that took 15 minutes. Dropped a big bag of presents at UPS where the very nice young man (21?) said, "Oh, I'll pack it for you, no extra charge.". That took 7 minutes. I am waiting on 2 small packages to be delivered here which I will GLADLY pack in my suitcase. I AM DONE WITH PRESENTS! I do need to get Jim a few stocking stuffers but really if I don't it is no big tragedy. I am feeling a little smug and very satisfied with my accomplishments today. NOW? I sit and watch Christmas specials all week!!

Sort of like Speed Dating

So, Jim got back from Manchester, NH, not NE, on Friday at 3:30 pm. Saturday, I went one way in the morning and he another. We met at the mall at 1:30 and did some speed Christmas shopping. I am not a great shopper and Jim is so he finds and put the budget on it. Jim had a ton of e-mail, texts and phone calls about work and decided to head back to Manchester Sunday night instead of Monday morning. I know that I/we would be asleep for 8 hours of that but, still, it's one less night. I feel like I'm on a speed marriage thing - we have to get in all the parenting/schooling/discipline/Christmas & birthday shopping/family finances/budgeting/romance in less than 48 hours. I'm not complaining mind you but it really made me think about what I want to fit in and what wasn't so important. DING! Time to move on. ;-)

Fast is my middle name

For the past two weeks I have been rushing about with the Winter Book Fair at school. My poor kids have had to endure fast meals, most not so great. I did salmon tonight which was very good. We had a version of this from Costco and I have changed it a bit and made it my own.

Salmon with herb butter

2 large salmon fillets

1/2 lemon

Garlic Salt

Herb butter

6 Tbsp butter

1 tsp fresh lemon peel grated

1 tsp fresh Italian parsley chopped medium fine

1 tsp fresh garlic chopped fine (smash it with the side of your knife first then chop)

Run all ingredients through food processor until blended coarsely. Scoop out with melon baller or just make two portions.

Heat oven to 375'. Place fillets in glass pan that you have sprayed with Pam. Squeeze lemon juice over fillets. Cut lemon half into quarters and place in pan. Sprinkle fillets with garlic salt. Place herb butter balls on top of fillets. Place in oven for 20 - 30 minutes. I like my fish a little less done so I tend towards the 20 minute mark. Jim wants his dead. D.E.A.D. so he likes the extra 10 minutes. Serve with basmati rice and lemon wedges. Steamed green beans go nicely with this too.

EEK! A Mouse!

I was taking out the recycling just now thinking about what I needed to do tomorrow and I almost stepped on a mouse. A dead mouse. In my driveway. Over the past two weeks I have found a dead finch on my front walk and a few more feathers in one spot than would be typical. I think one, or both, of my cats have escalated their pouncing skills to actual hunting and catching.

Growing up we had a cat, named Cat, that loved to bring 'presents' to my mom. Live presents. I remember a particular snake incident that Mom looked startled as the snake slithered over her feet during dinner and then shrieked. She sat with her feet on the chair the rest of the meal while Dad swept it outside animal advocate that he is. Very funny.

Now I'm starting to check the cats before I let them in. I do not like nature entering my house. My rule is: you stay out and I won't bother you. You come in and we will have issues.

Countdown of 48

Thought I would recap 48 ...

1-24: I have all of my fingers and toes. This almost means I have all four limbs.

25: Most of my hair is not gray. That that is, isn't. 'nough said.

26, 27: In comparison to many of my '80's rocker friends my hearing is good.

28, 29: I have terrible teeth but I have insurance so I still have teeth unlike my grandmother who had dentures at 30. I am grateful not to have upper and lower dentures.

30, 31: I got glasses in my early 20's. When I got pregnant with Connor my eyes changed for the better - no glasses for 11 years! My eyes are going downhill slowly but I still got 'em!

32: I used to be a soprano. Now I tend to sing alto, not really well, but I try. I'm gratetful I can still sing.

33, 34: I need my endorphines. My hips still move well and carry me where I want to go.

35, 36: On the same vein as above my feet are in great shape for the abuse I give them.

37: I can still remember where I park at the mall ... most of the time.

38: I love a good, or bad (but clean), joke. I'm thankful I still get them.

39: My family says I look more like 39 than 48. I love that my family lies well.

40: I have had one friend for 40 years. 40 YEARS! Talk about longevity. I'm thankful for friends, even those who I haven't known for 40 years.

41-43: Breathing. I had my nasal flaps fixed about a year ago and I have loved breathing in and out and in and out. My mile time has improved and I wish I had done it earlier.

44, 45: Smells are a wonderous thing for me. A smell can send me back to being six or sixteen or twenty six. I can close my eyes and imagine everything about the association I have to it.

46: My genes. I appreciate my gene pool, shallow though it may be at times. I enjoy good health and good spirits.

47: "To lose one parent my be regarded as a misfortune. To lose both looks like carelessness." ~Oscar Wilde. I am glad not to be looked upon as careless. I appreciate my parents.

48: Life. I'm glad I'm here and hope to be so for another 48.

Rigatoni with Artichoke Hearts & Pancetta

I love pancetta. It is Italian bacon that is very thin and really yummy. It's not really good on it's own because it is wayyyy too salty but in pasta dishes it shines. I found this recipe in an addition of America's Test Kitchen and have played with it enough to figure out what works. Please note the pasta dish is great without the pancetta.

Rigatoni with Artichoke Hearts & Pancetta - Serves 6

20 thin slices of pancetta (usually one package of Primo Taglio from Safeway is plenty)
1 Tbsp butter
2 shallots, minced NOTE: I use 6 green onions, white part only, if no shallots are available.
2 garlic cloves, smashed with the flat of knife and chopped fine
1 9 oz box frozen artichoke hearts thawed & sliced thin NOTE: Defrost in fridge if possible - it is less soggy - but you can nuke it.
1/2 cup white grape juice NOTE: Recipe calls for white wine so use it if you got it.
1 cup low sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tsp grated lemon zest
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 lb rigatoni

Note: Start pasta water so the pasta is done close to the same time as the sauce. The sauce takes about 15 minutes total if you have all of your ingredients ready to go at the start.

Cook pancetta in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 5 -6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate. Wipe pan quickly with another paper towel but don't wash.

Add butter and shallots to now empty skillet and cook until soft about 3 -4 minutes. Add garlic and artichoke hearts and cook about 2 minutes until garlic is fragrant. Add grape juice (wine) and cook until it is reduced by half, about 3 - 4 minutes. add broth, cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice and cook until thickened about 4 - 6 minutes.

Meanwhile, add 1 Tbsp salt and rigatoni to boiling water and cook until al dente. (NOTE: The recipes says to reserve 1/2 cup cooking water and add it to the sauce. I have done it both ways and like it better without but some people like thinner sauce.) Drain the pasta. Place pasta in large serving bowl. (Here is where you would add the water to the sauce if you so desire.) Pour sauce over pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Crumble pancetta and sprinkle over rigatoni. Serve with aged Parmesan and a crusty hot loaf of bread.

Persistence Pays Off

14 months ago I received a tax bill for a property we own in Santa Cruz County. The bill had gone up by $300 per year! In my annoyance I called the called the county assessors office and was told that I could submit a request for re-examination of value. I sent the 11 page form with a copy of a recent appraisal, a letter from another appraiser reiterating the lower value of our property, and a myriad of comparable that I pulled from a real estate web site. I spent about two days drafting a letter that explained how the value could not have gone up but should be adjusted down. Four months later I received a letter stating I had to appear before the assessors board with 5 copies of anything I wanted to submit for review, a copy of my original application, and the appointment was in late October. Really? October? So, I gathered my facts, made my copies and put it on my calendar.

On October 1st I received a phone call from the assessors office and they had a few questions for me. I answered them and sent the woman a scan of some documentation she requested. Mid October I received another call, same woman. She said she agreed with my assessment and that they were going to lower our property taxes and she cancelled my appointment with the board, bonus! I was so excited! Two weeks later I received a preliminary letter. Two weeks after that I received the actual reassessment notification. The bill went down by 1/3! Amazing! I was so thrilled at having 'won' my case with them.

At this point I thought I was done. I was happy with the outcome, happy with the process and happy not to have to go before the board. But today my neighbor comes by with a piece of mail. Connor took it because I was cooking dinner. I had him open it. "What is it Connor?", "A check.", "A check?", "Um, yeah.", "What for?", "Property tax refund.", "How much?", "$$$.", "WHAT?". This was a very nice surprise. The thought hadn't even crossed my mind that we would get a refund.

It just goes to show you patience and persistence can pay-off nicely. I'm thankful for parents who taught me the need to be both.

Pear Crisp Pie

Connor has a cooking class at school this trimester. He made up this recipe by himself:

Pear Crisp Pie

Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup sugar

6 Tbls butter, melted

In a small bowl combine all ingredients. Set aside.

Topping:

1 cup brown sugar

1 cube butter, melted

2 cups quick cooking oatmeal

1/2 cup flour

Combine brown sugar and butter, add oatmeal and combine well, then, flour and combine well.

Filling:

2 cans pear halves, drained

Pour fruit gently into crust and arrange so fruit is evenly spaced. Spoon topping onto fruit.

Place pie in 350' oven for 20 - 25 minutes until top is golden brown. Best served warm. With a cold glass of milk or vanilla ice cream!

Wishing on a Shooting Star

Yesterday I was running at 4:30 (a.m.) and I saw 6 shooting stars! I totally wished on all of them and was being amazed at the beauty and grace of our star system. Later, I was reading the paper that it was part of the Leonid Meteor Shower. I was so looking forward to it this morning that I got up at 4:15 to catch a longer look at what our Maker has made for us to be awe inspired by. I stepped outside and it was just a little overcast but I had hope. As I ran longer, 12 miles today, I realized it wasn't going to happen today. I was so disappointed. There is a slight chance for tomorrow but I think we are supposed to get rain. This is one of those times that Mother Nature has conspired to thwart my plans on being so inspired that I would sit down and write a poem so moving I would be called as San Jose's Poem Laureate (yes, we do have one). Guess today is not that day....

Transition Shoes

I like fall. I like raking leaves - twice this week already. I like fall cooking; soups - white bean and ham, pumpkin, chicken noodle/dumpling, and split pea. I like that I need a sweater in the morning and usually by 11 I can take it off if I want.

What I don't like about fall is the need for transition shoes. I am no shoe fashionista. I like sandals - okay flip-flops - in the late spring and summer. I love boots in the winter. I can't seem to get the shoe thing right for fall. I try but I feel that Stacy and Clinton would give me a dressing down in the 360.

My fall shoes feel clunky and old. They don't speak to me at all. They sit there and are, well, at best, foot coverings. I have cute summer and winter shoes. Even spring on non-rainy days I can get by. Not so for fall. I don't know if I'm too picky - I do like a comfortable shoe - or so cheap I won't spend hundreds on the 'right' shoes.

Whatever the problem is right now I'm stuck with chunky ugly shoes.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Nothing says Thanksgiving like a vegetable that could pass for a pie! I have amended this recipe a few times and just made it again over the weekend amending it again. Here is my latest pass:

Sweet Potato Casserole

2 can sweet potatoes, drained & mashed (don't use food processor if possible, slightly chunky is good)

4 Tbsp butter, softened (don't melt it and if you do let it cool until it is semi-solid again)

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla

1 egg

1/3 cup evaporated milk

Topping:

6 Tbsp butter, melted

3/4 cup brown sugar

1 1/4 cup crushed cornflakes

1/2 to 3/4 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts or mixed nuts) Note: I like salted nuts but you can

use unsalted

In a large bowl cream butter and sugars together; add potatoes, mix thoroughly. Add remaining ingredients* and mix until well incorporated. Pour in casserole dish; bake for 30 to 40 minutes at 375'. (Note: Due to the moisture content of the potatoes the baking time can vary a lot. You want the potatoes to be slightly firm before adding the topping mixture.)

Mix all topping ingredients in medium bowl. Spread on top of casserole after first bake. Return to oven for 7 to 10 minutes until browned. Serves 8.

*You can adjust the sugar, butter, and milk to taste. You don't want the mixture watery but the consistency of a thick pie filling. If it is watery cover the top with foil and bake longer until it is almost like a pumpkin pie then add the topping.

School, a thought

We are the Millers the mighty, mighty Millers! (Who wouldn't be afraid of someone with an ax?)

Matriculating from the public school system I really never gave high school much thought - I would go. My dad taught at the HS I went to, my sisters and brothers attended the same, I knew most of the teachers from the district picnics, this was a simple question of signing up for classes and showing up in a fabulous '70's outfit the first day. High school was no great challenge for me, I was motivated by the $10 we got for getting all A's, and I wasn't popular so I didn't have the distraction of being well liked by hordes or having boys showing off for me. But now I shutter at the public school system.

I called the school district again this week - I was told I could make an appointment to pre-register Connor in November - and asked again about the possibility of getting on a waiting list for another (better) HS. The woman I spoke to was the director of this department, she told me, "Due to your socio-economic situation you will not be released from the school boundaries you are in.". To be told because I was a homeowner that my kid couldn't go to another school seemed ridiculous! So, I did some intense research and sure enough the district has a policy that says basically that only those in low socio-economic situations will be given consideration upon appeal of assigned HS. WHAT? I am outraged that because I am in a good economic position my child won't be considered for a transfer. I don't want precedence I just want equal rights.

California's school system is screwed up with politicos that believe by giving a good show that will be lauded by their peers. One of the political messages here in CA this election season was for the person elected to REALLY represent their constituents. What a world it would be if we had people who really believed that and did it to the best of their abilities.

Lemon Chicken with Rice

I like tangy things, sour dough bread, key lime pie, lemon chicken, etc.. I made up this recipe years ago and have found that it is very forgiving and allows changes if you don't have something listed.

Lemon Chicken with Rice

1 whole chicken cut-up (or all thighs or breasts or legs - wings tend to fall apart too quickly.)

2 lemons, cut in 1/8ths

1/2 cup apple juice or white grape juice - white wine was in the original recipe

2 green onions, chopped (I've used green peppers, chives, and scallions too.)

1/2 cup lemon juice - fresh is best

Garlic salt

Preheat oven to 415'. Wash chicken pat dry. Using a 13 x 9 baking dish, spray with non-stick oil. Place chicken in dish, pour apple juice and lemon juice over chicken. Squeeze lemon slices through cheese cloth (to avoid picking out seeds later) so they are about half out of juice. Place squeezed lemons among chicken pieces. Sprinkle garlic salt over chicken to taste. Sprinkle onions over chicken. Bake for 45-55 minutes until done. Serve over rice drizzling drippings over chicken and rice for a nice lemony rice as well.

Hash Brown Eggs Benedict

I saw a complex recipe for this in a William Sonoma magazine and thought I would amend it to a quicker recipe.

Hash Brown Eggs Benedict

3 cups frozen hash browns - thaw about half way
2 tsp cornstarch
Salt and Pepper to taste
2 Tbs oil per batch
2 egg yolks
1 Tbs lemon juice (fresh is best)
Pinch of cayenne pepper
2 sticks butter, melted
3 Tbs minced chives or green onions
12 slices of Canadian bacon, cooked until lightly browned and kept warm
(NOTE: Cook only the amount of bacon that you want to serve. It is easy to adjust this
recipe for fewer servings.)
12 eggs cooked to order (My kids like scrambled and I like up, works well with either.)

Mix the hash browns with the cornstarch, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Working in a 10" frying pan heated to medium with the oil, form 1/4 cup patties with the hash brown mixture. Cook, turning once, until golden brown - about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel lined baking sheet, keep warm in 250' oven.

In bowl, whisk egg yolks, lemon juice and 2 tsp water. Transfer to a double boiler set over medium-low heat, until water is just simmering inside double boiler: whisk constantly until it begins to thicken. Remove from heat: whisk 1 minute more. Season with salt, pepper and cayenne. Whisking constantly, slowly pour in melted butter until smooth. Whisk in chives. Keep warm. (Note: Lawrys has a perfectly fine hollandaise sauce packet!!)

Place 2 hash brown patties on each plate. Top with Canadian bacon, 1 egg and sauce. Serve immediately.

The sauce isn't as hard as it sounds. If you don't have a double boiler you can do this with an oven proof bowl or a thin sided sauce pan over a larger pot with water. It's obviously harder to whisk and hold the pot but I've done it.

Pumpkin Cupcakes

With Fall in full swing I thought I would post my amended Martha Stewart pumpkin cupcake recipe with cream cheese frosting. I love these just a little warm with a nice cold glass of milk. I will heat the plain cupcake up for 10 seconds in the microwave THEN frost it so I can have it my way ... life is sooo delicious!!

Pumpkin Cupcakes - amended from Martha Stewart recipe

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake tin with paper liners and set aside.

In medium bowl whisk together, then set aside:

2 cups flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp coarse salt

2 tsps pumpkin pie spice

1/4 tsp ground allspice

In large bowl whisk together:

4 eggs, beat lightly before adding items below

1 cup packed brown sugar

1 cup sugar

1 cup butter, melted and cooled (don't skip this part)

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

Add dry ingredients to wet slowly whisking until smooth.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top springs back or a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting

4 oz cream cheese room temp.

4 tbls butter room temp.

1 tsp vanilla (Note: I had some left over vanilla beans from another recipe and added the inside

scrapings from one here. Delicious but cut vanilla to 1/2 tsp.)

2 cups confectioners sugar (I add about another 1/4 cup because I like my frosting stiffer.)

Blend together with a mixer until smooth. Frosts about 18 cupcakes.

It's okay! I make you lamb.

I have to say that I am stuck on the fact that neither Debbie or Keira will cook with lamb. I cook with it constantly and my family LOVES it. You can get good inexpensive cuts at Costco and since it is a richer meat it goes farther. Jim begged me for Lamb Stew today so here is my very easy but yummy recipe:

3 lbs lamb shoulder cubed


Garlic salt


White pepper


4 garlic cloves - whole


1 long sprig of fresh Rosemary (1 tsp of dried)


12 small New Red or white Potatoes - halved or quartered (depends on how big you like them)


2 Carrots scrubbed and cut in 1/4" pieces


1 Celery rib cut in 1/8" pieces





Brown lamb in a skillet with a small amount of oil about 7 minutes. Season with garlic salt and white pepper to taste. Transfer lamb to stew pot or crock pot. Pour 2 1/2 quarts of water over meat. (NOTE: You may have to add water through the cooking process if you do this on the stove.) Add cloves of garlic and rosemary. Cover and cook for about 3 hours - 6 to 8 hours in the crock pot on low. Meat should be fall apart tender. 30 to 45 minutes prior to serving add vegetables depending on how tender you like them - with a crock pot add vegetables 1 hour before serving and turn the crock pot to high. Take out rosemary sprig. (NOTE: If I find the garlic I take it out and smash it up then stir it back in. If I don't find it then someone gets the whole one... :-) Season to taste with salt and white pepper before serving. Serve with a nice crusty loaf of sour dough or french bread.

Nothing like a nice lamb stew that requires minimal work and maximum taste.

People Overload

I am an introvert. There. It's out. Whew. I'm sure no one has guessed that one. I had a people overload today. I had too much contact with too many people in too many situations. People suck the energy out of me. Not that I don't like people but I need small doses. Church each week is a challenge if I have to deal with adults, thus the reason I am still "volunteering" in Primary. Kids just want love, hugs and your undivided attention which I can do.

I had to deal with people at work - not the usual people - that were cranky and needed soothing. Not my forte but, hey, I got through it. Then I had to go to school to deal with forty-four 10 ten olds - easy peasy: it was the adults that were adding to my stress level. Then I taught a cooking class Connor is in, seventeen 11 - 14 yr olds, for an hour plus the myriad of adults that were asking what we were doing, can they get the recipes, can they make one, is it that easy? blah, blah, blah. We got home and I had to clean up, make dinner, make soup of an RS activity and go set up at church. Here's where the real overload started. If I go to an RS function I sneak in very near the start, not late but just on time, sit out of the way and have minimal contact with others. I couldn't do any of that. I tried to sneak off but got wrangled back in. Now my nerves are jangled and I'm an edge.

I got home at 9, we did scripture study and I'm already calmer but need a good masseuse for my knotted shoulders, oh, wait, that's another person, never mind. The funniest part was that the RS activity was about, get this, dealing with stress. I love a good ironic situation.

Anew

I am starting a new - not "anew" - bit of posting. I love to cook. I like to experiment with recipes that I like and see if I can improve them, just a bit or sometimes remake the whole thing. I can't say as my family love all of my efforts: if I get 3 of 5 to eat it I consider it a decent showing, 4 of 5 a good showing and adding it to our list of meals to make again, 5 of 5 and I'll pull it out anytime I want to have opinions swayed my way. ;-) I say use whatcha' got!

Greek Skillet Lasagna (modified from an America's Test Kitchen recipe) - serves 4

1 lb ground lamb (or 85% lean ground beef but lamb is better)

1/2 white onion chopped fine

garlic salt and white pepper

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1/4 tsp cinnamon

10 curly-edged lasagna noodles broken into 2" lengths (or equivalent of wide egg noodles)

1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes

1/4 cup heavy cream (Note: If you don't have this you can leave it out but add 1/8 c water)

3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Cook lamb in large skillet until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain lamb, reserve 1 Tbsp fat, put lamb on paper towel lined plate. Add reserved fat, onion and 1/2 tsp garlic salt to skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, oregano and cinnamon and cook about 30 seconds. Return meat to skillet with 2 cups of water (plus 1/8th if you aren't using cream) and bring to simmer, scraping up browned bits.

Scatter pasta over meat but don't stir. Pour tomatoes over pasta, cover and bring to simmer. Reduce heat to medium and cooking stirring occasionally (after it simmers) until pasta is tender, about 15 minutes.

Stir in cream and simmer until slightly thickened (if you don't use the cream let it thicken by cooking slightly longer 3 to 5 minutes). Season with garlic salt and white pepper. Sprinkle with feta cheese. Serve with garlic bread and a nice salad w/balsamic vinaigrette.

New Title for My First Book

"Is It Okay That I Don't Like My Kids?". Yup. That's the big title. I'm livin' large and starting my novella now. On my blog. Okay, I'm just bringing this up because two of my three kids is in hot water with me. (As I type it is now all 3 of them!)

This morning Lauren got obsessed with finding a watch to wear so she wouldn't have to turn around in class to see how much longer she had in a certain subject. She couldn't put on her shoes, brush her hair, find her sweatshirt or take her backpack. I told her I didn't like her very much this morning. I've felt terrible all day about it but I keep thinking about it and it's still a true statement.

Midday I get an e-mail from one of Connor's teachers. He currently has 17 out of 100 points in class. Really? They've been in school just two weeks. How can this be? Connor didn't do the history summer reading - they handed this out when he was out. So, I check the teacher assignment website. Connor is already missing 4 assignments and has an F in a class. And his teacher says he has a "who cares" attitude. I care too much and am annoyed with him now.

And Tylor? He didn't want to go to the orthodontist. He didn't want to do homework. He wants to go to soccer practice but he has a bruise on his heel. He is whining ... big time!!

This is why I don't like my kids right now. Maybe tomorrow will be better?

Hostessing Debate: Me: 1 School: 0

So, remember that whole thing I was protesting on Monday? That I was so angry about? Well, I shot off an e-mail to the PSA President (which I was asked to be but declined due to lack of children involvement and that I would have had to deal with people like me). She called to chat about it, I've known her for several years and like each other. I was clear in my debate with the administration stance and countered her points solidly. She called me back several hours later with the situation determined that if I have an issue with it then I probably wasn't alone. I wasn't: there were several other calls and e-mails - none as persausive as mine of course - and they decided we shouldn't do it this way. Me: 1 School: 0

I PROTEST!!

I need to vent a little before a Friday morning meeting where I could vent but it could get ugly. So, if I vent now maybe it will go better and you, my loyal friends and family, can direct my rant in a more positive, if not constructive, direction.

I received a call from the Head Room Parent about a new part of the Room Mom job. She said each grade would be in charge of hosting a "Hospitality Lunch" for the teachers once during the year. This may not seem like much but here's the crux of it for me ... no one asked me if I want to do this. I am fairly certain I live in a democracy where volunteers cannot be pressed into involuntary service. The room moms at our school are there to facilitate teacher needs and coordinate other parents as needed. A luncheon for 60 people is not a teacher need - maybe a want but definitely not a need.

Here is the Friday morning room parent meeting in my head (dream sequence here).... Welcome, blah, blah. Thank you, blah, blah. Packets with teacher requests, budget, etc. blah, blah. There is a new job we want you to do which is to host a hospitality luncheon for all the teachers one month as a service (my hand flies up here) to your (head room parents eyes light on me and she visibly sags) teacher. Yes, Mrs. Voydat? (I stand looking questioningly at the head room parent.) Me: Excuse my interruption but I don't remember this being on the list of things to do for the teacher's last year or any of the other 8 years I have been a room parent or on the website this year. Can you tell me who made the decision to add to our responisibilities without talking to us first? HRP: The proposal was brought to the administration who decided it was a good idea and then implemented it. Me: Implemented it without asking us if this would overly burden our already busy schedules? Or add it to the duty description so we could weigh whether or not we had time to do this job along with our duty of meeting our teacher's needs, correct? HRP: That's not how we see it. (end dream sequence) There were other more snippy remarks made in my head and other scenarios. But, it goes along this same vein.

I'm not opposed to the hospitality luncheon but I want no part of it. I did it for 6 years and am done. If we don't have enough parents volunteering doesn't that mean that it doesn't mean anything to the parents and maybe we should just do away with it?

I'm here to wave my banner of protest and say, "I will not be made a hostess!!".

Monday, Monday can't Trust that day!

I had a signed off with a client this morning. It was a loooong road to get here and extremely rocky near the end. I have been stressed and over-stressed. I have broken out and broken down. I would say that it's almost over but it's Monday, September 13th. Most people think that Friday the 13th is unlucky. With the way this transaction has gone I'm hoping that Monday's won't become the Friday the 13th for me. AWWWWWWWWWW!

I've Seen it All Now.

Californians cracks me up. It's the reason I live here. Not the great weather, beautiful mountains or the scenic beaches. Nope. It's the people.

I was reading the Entertainment Guide "The Eye" for our paper today when I can upon a wedding invitation. The ad looks like any ad for an entertainer; half page color with photos of the singer. I was glancing over it - I like Jazz and Santa Cruz is always entertaining - when I saw the schedule, "1 pm doors open ... 3:30 Wedding Ceremony ...". WHAT? I then had to read the whole thing. Yup. A wedding invitation put out by two Santa Cruz local entertainers at The Coconut Grove Grand Ballroom.

I even checked it out to make sure it was for real, www.kayebohler.com/Wedding.html . The website doesn't do the ad justice and the photo I took was too small to read.

This is why I love California. Just when you think you are going insane you can find someone crazier than you in putting an ad in the news paper for you to pay to come to their wedding. You can't tell me that this isn't a good reason to stay put in the great state of California.

You can Tell you're getting older when ...

... for the second time in three weeks you put your jeans in your kids pile to put away (and not the same kid).

... your kids know how easily you are distracted by bread and/or sweets.

... you forget about dinner for the 2nd time this week for the 3rd week in a row.

... you are singing, "We all live in a yellow submarine, yellow submarine...", and your daughter says, "Um, Mom? You know the house is green, right?".

... your daughter asks to borrower your kitten heels and they fit her.

... your kids tell you you need a new swimsuit ... in a bad way.

... you forget to shave one of your legs more than once in the past couple of months.

... you find a hair where no hair should be. (Really!?)

And finally. The number one way you can tell you are getting older ...

... the cart boy at Safeway says to you, "It's okay. Lots of older people can't get these carts apart."

Youth is wasted on the young.

11 Reasons

1. 11 yr old boys don't run away (helpful people pointed my way but didn't stop him)

2. 11 yr old boys answer questions when asked

3. 11 yr old boys don't throw temper tantrums

4. 11 yr old boys can follow directions

5. 11 yr old boys are generally courteous and mindful of others

6. 11 yr old boys open to suggestions

7. 11 yr old boys can make reasonable decisions on their own (age appropriate)

8. 11 yr old boys don't scream at adults (parents excluded)

9. 11 yr old boys don't kick tables incessantly (giving doctor/parent headache)

10. 11 yr old boys hate shots (just 2)

11. 11 yr old boy realizes error of his ways earlier and apologizes all on his own

In spite of his terrible, horrible, no good, very bad morning we ended the day on a positive note. Before apologizing Tylor had cleaned his room, made his bed, fed his fish and hamster, and had done his reading. Maybe I'll keep him. Maybe

Tomatoes

We decided to plant only two tomato plants this year. We had three last year and were a little overwhelmed with tomato based recipes for weeks. My neighbors, while grateful at first, started to avoid my offers and stopped answering their doors when they saw my shadow darkening it.

We have had a nice steady supply for about 4 weeks of two or three ripe tomatoes per week. Not too many to eat and feel like I was making up recipes (tomato ice cream?) to get rid of them. This week I swear I watered on Sunday night took a peek and didn't see any ripe yet but Monday afternoon there were 8, Tuesday 4, Wednesday 4, and Thursday 5. Really?

I have presented our harvest to our neighbors and friends. No one has stopped talking to me ... yet.

My Little Seamstress or Introducing Designs by Lauren

Little Miss Lauren has been sewing her heart out this summer. She has made; 2 pillowcases (see above), 3 skirts (see one below), 2 beach sized tote bags (one below but hard to see), a pillow (she made her own pattern!?), a headband and several fabric flowers. She loves sewing!

She has the pattern for her Halloween costume already, a gypsy outfit. She already has the fabric picked out and is gathering notions. What cracks me up is that she knows what a french seam is. Can anyone tell ME what a french seam is?

I remember when Mom tried to teach me to sew. Dad said I had to learn before I could get my license. Marcy sewed, Debbie sewed, so, really, how hard could it be? I picked out an elastic topped material that we were going to do one seam up the side, hem and add spaghetti straps. I knew Mom was bent on torture. Against the Geneva Convention torture! I was willing to go with the Chinese water torture rather than submit to this. It was awful, took weeks to finish and then, AND THEN, I had to wear it to church. Ugh. I was mortified when Jennifer Condi (Suzie homemaker even at 15.) said in her sweetest voice, "Nice dress.". At the time I thought she was the devil himself and was in with my mother on the total teenage mortification plan. (Now I know she was just being sympathetic and nice - drat her.) I put it away and never wore it again. I think I passed it down to someone - no idea who wore it next but at least it wasn't me.

I am really happy Lauren loves to sew and I have, thanks to patient and understanding friends and family, come to enjoy it sometimes. Projects still scare me but I think with Lauren learning I may have the courage to try again.

Conspiracy Theory

This morning at 8:15 I got a call from the 1st counselor in the bishopric who told me my recommend expired yesterday and they could fit me in before church. I was ready the kids weren't, Jim said he would drop them off at 9 for me. I got my interview fast and easy. First Sunday of the month so a member of the stake was there for that interview. President Daley was a little late but he is always worth waiting for. Nice interview AND a priesthood blessing to boot. As I left church I thought that Heavenly Father has a conspiracy going with the leadership of the church. Yup, a conspiracy I tell you! I have a tendacy to get very frustrated if things aren't just so - I know this is a surprise to most of you. Well, I had planned on going to the temple with a friend of mine next week and hadn't even noticed it was close to the expiration for my recommend. I would have been very put out (insert "mad" here if you know me really well) if I had gotten there and hadn't been able to go in. So, the leadership listened to HF and called me, Jim was home and available, and it was the first Sunday so I didn't have to make another appointment and take time out of my week to go to another interview. Better stay inside the rest of the week... ;-)

Digging Out

We have had friends staying with us for the last 6 days. Six days. My friend Lisa has 4 children - all of whom have ADD. Six days. We had moody & sullen (17), tall & diabetic (16), bouncy & bored (9) and wild with tantrums (7). Six days. It was a long expensive week of finding things to get us all out of our small (not small for us but for guests) home. Nothing pleased everyone of course. Too many things pleased no one while we were doing them.

I enlisted my kids to clean for about 3 hours after our friends left. The house while not quite clean is quiet. I like quiet.

My kids ...

...C-man thinks I am cursed above all others. I scolded him on our way home from church for opening the car and then throwing the keys on the ground near the car THEN coming to get me from a friends house about 10 doors down. He was annoyed that I had told him, "We're not staying, really.". I didn't mean to lie but I did. He didn't see that he did anything wrong since neither my purse or the car were ACTUALLY stolen. So, when we got home he decided to do the martyr thing and didn't speak to me for all of 35 minutes. Silence is Golden.

...Bing was in trouble for taking my keys and then giving them to C-man and not remembering what C-man did with them until we got to the car. I know this seems petty on my part but I gave him the keys not C-man.

...The Princess isn't in trouble ... but then again it's still early.

I am currently on the "Bad Mom" list for taking away computer/phone privileges from everyone (it's a longer story than above but I won't go into it). But by tomorrow I shall be redeemed by making Eibleskeevers for breakfast!

Guess it's over, Call it a day ...

Testing is over. Done. Finished. Whew. It was quite an adventure though.

I was due at the testing center - a dark, low story building built in the late '50's with dingy sky blue lower window coverings. Ugh. It was depressing to walk in to the building. NOTE: I am a nervous test taker so I over prepare and over worry about passing so as I'm entering the building my heart is pounding. I feel like I am sprinting (see http://www.blogspot.amrunnerca.com/) as I walk into the testing center.

I had to read over and agree to a full legal page of rules, put all of my belongings (including my watch?) into a locker, I couldn't even bring in my own tissues (really?). Then I met with the proctor, had to turn my pockets inside out and put my hands into my back pockets to show there was nothing there. I was doing this all in front of a man who was giggling at the absurdity of it which made me giggle which made me feel a little better.

I was given 2 hours to complete the first test - done in 1 hour 10 minutes. The last hour was with headphones on because the guy next to me was belching, no kidding, belching. 96% score.

When I came out I asked if I could take the other test sooner than my scheduled 1 pm she said sure so I went to the restroom and started the next test - mind you I had to go through the same entrance routine again - really?

Second test was 3 hours long - I finished in 1 hour 15 minutes. No belching guy this time. 87% score. The reason I got so low is because of the Ethics portion. I know what you're thinking, "Uh, yeah. You have an ethics problem.". In real estate the definition of ethics is "..the minimum society requires to avoid penalty.". No kidding. I am a disclose all and do more type of worker (thanks Dad!) so I answered as I would if I were to do things and not what the minimum required to do would be. Oh, well. I guess I have to lower my standards next time. (As if my Sunbeams would let me! CTR power!)

I just need to do fingerprinting and file one more form to be done.

I have thought this process is like shutting the barn door after the horses have gotten out. The people that this was supposed to target have; a) gotten out of the business because they made their money, duh, or b) not going to worry about a stupid license to do business - as if they did before. It all smacks of Big Brother to me.

Thanks Mr. Obama for making this all possible. Really. Thanks.

Testing, 1, 2, 3...

Since I have been unemployed I have been studying for two big tests I have to take on the 20th. I have been studying and studying. My husband was lucky he was out of the country so he didn't feel ignored. My kids felt a little ignored and slightly neglected. We had the following for dinners this week: Monday (forgot to cook): soup, Tuesday: top ramen, Wednesday: chicken wings (not quite burned), Thursday: Safeway pizza, Friday (forgot to cook again, darn it!): left over pizza and panini (okay, it was just grilled cheese but I did it in my panini maker). Only two more days until the insanity of my study habits is over. My darling husband asked me if this is how I was in college: to which I reply, "Uh, yeah.": to which he replied, "Your poor roomies.". He was glad he was gone.

The End in 10 Words or Less

Today was my last day on my job. A little momentus since I didn't even make it 100 days. But it's done, the end. I felt a wave of relief both going to and leaving today. And even a little sadness. Sadness that what I had hoped for wasn't going to be.

The one odd thing was the very end. I walked in the office and Stanley said, "Sandy needs to review files with you.", to which I said, "Okay.". Then he walked away. Sandy came in we went over files, I packed up my few personal items (another clue I wasn't comfortable I didn't bring in pics of my family) and Stanley walked over, handed me my final check and said, "Here. Thank you." and walked out of the office. Ten words. That's all I was worth to him. Sandy was a bit stunned and said as much. I wasn't as stunned as he has been ignoring me for the last two weeks.

The one good thing to come out of this is that I have two people who I think are capable and very good at their jobs and think highly of as part of my work friendship circle. A shared experience brings people together and I appreciate that part of this.

Two is a Magic Number

2 hands, 2 feet, 2 cents, 2 eyes, 2 many ... you get the picture... 2 days.... It is a magic number and I happen to be enjoying 2 today. I will like 1 as well but 2: I have time for; 1) a brief reflection (check) and 2) for forethought (and double check). I will have a moment, or two, tomorrow to think about what to say to my 2 co-workers as we part ways, two very nice and capable people. Live for 2-day but plan for 2-morrow. 2.

Going? Going? ...

I have less than 4 days left of work. Yup. 4. I have to go in to the Devil's Lair on Tuesday for a time and then make my escape by 2 pm. Wednesday, oh, I don't think a visit to the Den of the Devil will be necessary. And, well, Thursday, I have to doctor's appointment and have to pick up Lauren - can't make it that day. So, Friday. I do have to make an appearance - later in the day I think to drop off my work laptop - 10 year old beast that it is - and pick up a check. Then, I'm, done. I can't tell you what a relief this is. I know I whined and made excuses etc but I think it was just the fact that the Lord wanted me to leap with faith. Well, I made the leap and I am happy to have done so. Not everything has been worked out financially but as Jim says, "A happy mommy makes a happy home!". Smart man.

I Did it now....

I put in my notice...2 weeks....freedom....

I QUIT!

Okay, so I haven't quite quit but I composed my e-mail to my boss. Jim is editing it for me. He says I need to be less emotional about it. Uh, I am emotional about it. Today I was told to come into Stanley's office - I didn't go because I was too mad about his lack of management skills or tact that I couldn't and be civil. I'm close. Maybe by tomorrow?? Wish me strength!

A Salute to My Dad

Here's to my dad's family famous sayings:

"It'll quit hurting when it feels better."

"Measure twice. Cut once."

"Do it now because you'll forget later."

"I have something that will make you feel better!" (Referring to his family famous peanutbutter ketchup and onion, yes onion, sandwich,)

My dad could make you wither with his, "I'm dissappointed in you." (Jewish mother's have nothing on the 'Idaho eye' when it comes to guilt.)

Then there were all those 'talks'; sex (don't!), work (do!), responsibility (heaped!), ethics (have some!), and don't get him started on religion (he would have been a televangilist in any other religion).

What I learned; 1) you don't have to get credit for something getting done as long as it gets done, 2) work hard and earn your money 'cause it isn't going to fall in your lap, 3) helping someone doesn't always mean giving them something: it could mean teaching them something, 4) be someone that your dad (and mom) would be proud of, 4) be grateful for what you have 'cause there is always, always someone worse off than you, and 5) love one another.

There are so many more things I learned from my dad that I can't possibly list them. But what I can say is thank you dad for life lessons that have served me well even when you didn't think I listened to them!

I got nothin'

You know the old saying, "If life gives you lemons, make lemonade!". This last few weeks I got a few lemons and can't quite see my way to make lemonade. I have turned into a work-whiner.

I ask my kids when the whining gets to be too much, "What do you get it you whine?", to which they reply, "Nothing.". That's right folks, I got nothin'. I have been busy whining but not acting. I know what I want to do but I don't know what I should do. I have been on my knees trying to figure it out but I haven't got that lovin', or hatin', feeling yet. I think I'm asking the wrong question or asking to be handed the answer (can't I just get a little louder voice that says, "Why yes, Sherri, go right ahead with that!") I understand I have to do my part but (oops, here I go whining again) I want to get that burning feeling so when we are broke I can absolutely say, "The spirit said to!", and feel very justified.

So, I will go back to my lemons and my knees and try not to get any papercuts. And if I start whining to you don't let me. I need to be done lemonade or not.

He's Leaving on a Jet Plane ... I know when he'll be back again ...

Please note that if you can work lyrics into anything blog related do so, especially 70's & 80's lyrics 'cause they were so awesome. (I'm giggling now.)

Connor is leaving tomorrow for two whole weeks. Yup, two weeks. The longest we've been apart is 9 days last summer and I missed him terribly then. He is going to visit two of his cousins that are close to his age - thank you Danny and Jacob - and a few others that aren't close but nonetheless need to be visited along with several aunts and uncles.

I love that Connor asked for this as his one summer activity. I could send him to summer camps but family is so much better!

I'll miss you! sniff....

The Consequences for Lying

Yes, I lied. Pretty poorly but to a 9 yr old it was good enough. But this morning I found out the dire consequences of my lying to Lauren last night.

The Lie

Lauren: Mom, I just remembered Daddy is going to be home tomorrow and I want to be here! I don't want to go to Emily's overnight now.

Me: Daddy won't get home until late and then he has to get up early to go to work. You probably won't get to see him much. (The lie was the home late part - he was due in at 1:45. I just wanted to spend time with him myself - very selfish I know. I'm repenting as I type.)

Lauren: Okay, I'll go but I'll call him later and if he is home early I'll come home.

The Consequences

200+ people are stranded in Puerto Rico due to my lie. It's true. The plane that Jim was supposed to leave on at 7:30 was grounded due to problems. Jim had to catch the next flight out at 12:30 going through Miami with a 4 hour lay-over there and then on the SF. The flight gets in at 10:45 pm. He has hired a car to take him from SF and bring him home and should be here by about 12:00 -ish. Jim said the other people we really upset and working rabidly to get on the flight he was taking to Miami because there are no other flights out of Puerto Rico today. Lovely.

So, the moral is don't lie because higher powers can make these things true and make lots of people suffer because you lied. Not that I'm really done lying but I'm going to tell better ones.... ;-).

Uh, Seriously?

There seems to be carnage where ever I have gone lately.

Have you ever had one of those days that one thing after another just keeps happening and the more you think, "Well, that's got to be the last of it!", the more that keeps happening? I had one of those weekends. Let me recap:

Friday afternoon 2:30 - Left work to pick up kids from school. Serious file disaster - I raised my voice to my boss (not quite yelling but it was close).

3 pm - Got kids and most of their stuff - forgot a carpool kid and had to turn around about 1/3 of the way home to go back and get her. In my defense I thought she was having a sleep over elsewhere.

4 pm - Got Lauren to her birthday party sleep over: picked up 2 more boys for a sleep over at our house. Forgot sleeping bag in car, dorky me.

5:30 pm - Went to 5th grade picnic - no cooking is a good thing right? - boys refused to eat chicken, salad, corn, and cake. Did eat garlic bread - seriously I paid $34 for this??

7 pm - Dropped Connor off at mall to see a movie with friends. Me: "Do you have your phone?". Connor: "Got it!" (kiss/kiss, bye-bye) Got back to picnic ... found Connor's phone in car. Really?

Saturday 5 am - Connor gets up with half of his face swollen. Off to the pediatrician at 11 am. Infection in his jaw.

12:15 pm - Go pick up prescription. Realize that I have been driving on a completely flat tire - ("Why is the car pulling to the right?", crossed my mind twice but, hey, why would it be a flat tire?)

1 pm - Have to run all over valley to get father-in-law: cheesecake, birthday presents, card and specialty dessert. And bread from a bakery in Campbell - they sold the loaves I asked for because it was after 2 pm by the time I got there and special orders can be sold if they are not prepaid if it is after 2 pm. It was 2:10 - seriously, 2:10.

Sunday - 7 am - Remind Lauren that church is at 9 but we have to be there at 8:45 so we can see the flag raising. Huge fit ensues. Lovely.

12:15 pm - Out of church (the church is a little more true at 9 am)

12:30 pm - Work like a mad dog all afternoon on the International Fair food - mini apple pies, wrapped hot dogs and chocolate chip cookies. Make signage for fair.

3:45 pm - Remember we have to actually wrap presents for Grandpa Voydat's birthday.

4:15 - leave for Grandpa V's dinner. Park at their house on a hill and set parking brake.

6:30 - Try to leave for home. No chance. The parking brake cable broke. Call my in-laws AAA and they will come fix! (Much longer story but I LOVE AAA right now!)

7:50 - AAA comes and takes 1 minute to fix problem and one more minute to show me how to fix it in the future! yeah! My Mother-in-law mentions my flat tire. The AAA guy will follow me home and fix it? What are you kidding?

8:25 pm - Home finally. AAA fixes tire. I may be enamored!

9 pm - Connor looks terrible still. I am giving him meds and Tylenol every 5 hours.

10 pm - Find that our cat has sat on one plate of my apple pies and ruined 10 of them. If I could find it I would kill it right now. Hide, kitty, hide!

Monday 7 am - Connor isn't going to school so only two lunches to throw together. "What you don't like pastrami, turkey and swiss?" ... too bad today dude!

7:20 am - leave for school

7:30 am - set up booth for international fair. Let everyone know I may be late but I will be there.

8:20 am - At work. Working furiously (and furious) on things that aren't coming together.

10:30 am - Leave for a friend's funeral.

Non-Sequitar - Why I love Mormon funerals:

1. Venue is free

2. Speakers are free

3. Sermon is uplifting (as it can be) and appropriate

4. No "open mike"

5. Correct music is used with the correct hymns

6. Good food made and served by RS and a lot of it

7. No one uses the words "Donation" or "Give what you can"

8. People generally know to wear Sunday clothes, biker wear,

while not discouraged, doesn't happen often

12 pm - Leave funeral for International Fair - Goes excellently and the USA is the biggest hit!

3:30 pm - Gather up all of Connor's outstanding homework and a test to deliver to him

4 pm - Find Connor in pretty much the same state as the last three days but grumpier (no

food will do that to you)

Can I be done yet?

Why does this happen every year?

Every year the end of the school year sneaks up on me. I swear it is April and then it skips to June! And how do I keep over booking myself for all this 'stuff' that happens in the last two weeks of school, such as:

8th grade graduation - The 7th grade parents put it on and I'm in charge of assignments, drinks, ice, serving and replenishing food and of course clean up.

7th grade field trip - Had to scramble and pull in quite a few favors for this one. Not one parent signed up (a case of "Oh, someone else (Sherri & Kim*) will take care of it!")

International Day - I get to represent the good ol US of A. I loved it last year and I'll make it great but still, one more thing!

*We, as a family, need to adopt Kim. She'd be a perfect fit. She totally gets our humor, knows all of the important family names and great in a pinch. All in favor say Aye!

So, basically, I'm a little stressed, Jim's gone (nothing new there), and I have "... a wedding to plan, my wife to kill and Gilder to blame for it: I'm swamped!"

I'll bet you were wondering...

...if I'm dead, or been in the hospital with a serious illness, or have had my hands bound (like the Chinese used to do to children's feet. Nope. None of the above. Not even remotely. Call it a case of if-I-have-one-more-thing-to-do-today-I'll-scream syndrome. Just plain busy with life, love, school, work and pursuing happiness (or a close facsimile). I may be close to having it all ... or losing my mind - it's a toss up right now.

Back in the U.S.S.R... or not....

Well, I made it to my Focus! I am now jobless and quite happy about it. I thought I would start catching up on a few things....like my blog, my life, my contacting aliens - oh, wait those are my kids.

Much love to all that supported me during my time off.

Focus

I have a focus now ... it's April 1st. You may not see this as much but it is my focus. If I focus on this I will be able to make through the next 7 weeks or 51 days or 1,224 hours or 73,440 minutes. Focus. I would add a picture but when you're focused on one thing you can't add a photo that would really do it justice. Focus on April 1st.

Quote of the Day

"All I ask is the chance to prove that money can’t make me happy.” Spike Milligan (He was an Irish comedian and writer)

I don't know Spike but I like him today. I am typically not too materialistic so having things isn't the issue: but after starting our taxes last night, paying our monthly bills, and budgeting for our upcoming real estate taxes I was a little, well, depressed. I needed a smile and I got one from this quote.

I like what I remember Mom saying more than once, "I just want $20 in my wallet.". I think my financial quote for the day will be, "I want to have enough to ..."

Let my Little Light Shine

What a great day in Primary! I miss being with the kids so much that it was great to get a call from Tylor's teacher asking me to sub today.

The lesson was on the priesthood and I have done this one, oh, about six times in the last 7 years. I wanted to try a few new things and it worked great. I found $1 lights at the Dollar Store and added Matthew 5:14-16 to a cute tag. All the kids were engaged and pretty much appropriate. Having 4 quotes and 5 scriptures to have them read really got them using their minds and stretching their understanding. They loved the lights out game - the room we were in was pitch black.

It was a lovely day. I'd do it again in a heart beat!

Idle Hands

I have been horribly busy for the last two weeks saving money and taking up all my time. I have made a goal to stick steadfastly to birthday budgets. With parties I tend to see things that go or would work and justify it in my mind. Well, no more.

We had Tylor's party last week and came in at $60 for 9 boys - $15 for food and juice and $45 for the soccer balls I sent home with them. Fabulous!

We held Lauren's party today, $89. We crafted Heart Strings ($6 for 15 and I could do another 20!) - as soon as I find my camera cord I will post a pic -, potato stamped scarves ($15 for fabric 12" x 45" and $18 for fabric paint (I did smaller potato blocks with more colors) and felt bags ($22 for bags and $23 for felt flowers), and $5 for homemade pizza and drinks (all stuff left over from Tylor's party). The girls were thrilled, the parents (moms) were impressed.

The down part was that I spent the better part of 5 days prepping all of these crafts. My hands are actually buzzing today. I have to look down at my hands once in a while because my fingers don't feel quite right.

One more thing to prep as I am teaching the 11 yr olds tomorrow - each are getting a $1 flashlight "so their light can shine forth". I love it when a plan comes together so well!