This whole physical therapy / OMLA thing has been driving me batty. OK - specifically, not the physical therapy (which has been helping - sort of), and actually not the OMLA, which has been assisting in *getting* me the the physical therapy. No, it's my BOSS that's driving me batty, in regards to it.
She had to sit down with me today and tell me that, because she can't keep up on her job, she wants me to now send her a personal email along *with* the request for time off, so she can keep a head's up on everything and make sure that OT is posted correctly. Yeah... Lady, if you can't do your job, and you admit as much, don't you think it's time you decided to do something ELSE?!
Her exact words were "Well, you know, it's no picnic setting up schedules for 33 people in a 24/7 call center, so it's been difficult making sure that I get everyone scheduled properly. I can't always have the time to go into [the folder showing what days everyone is requesting off], so I need you to send me a personal email to give me a head's up, so I can go in and specifically look for your requested days off."
I see. Never mind that, as the supervisor, that's your JOB! Never mind that you're supposed to do that at least twice a day (once when you get to work and once when you leave)... Never mind that it's yet one more way for you to admit that you're incompetent. OMG.
I smiled and nodded. It was clarified that I wasn't going to be able to give her 3 weeks notice - sometimes I would only be able to give her a few days notice, but I would try and keep that to a minimum - and that I would agree to send her said "special" email. I wonder if I should gift-wrap it and put a pink bow on it as well.
She also tried to jolly me along with anecdotes about her friends being pregnant - she's never been pregnant, but assumes that as she has friends who were, she knows everything there is to know about being pregnant. Whatever.
Of course, this whole discussion simply underlined what was already apparent - she can't do her job, and she's going to end up losing it within the next few months because of her repeated incompetence. And she won't see it coming because she can't see how idiotic she is:
Instead of asking for help on union-related issues regarding seniority, she simply makes an arbitrary decision - and ends up almost having a call center-wide riot on her hands.
Instead of paying attention and making sure that EVERYONE got a copy of updated schedules for Thanksgiving graveyard, she only sent out updated schedules to those who had theirs changed - and then didn't even bother to actually FILL the position for that night at all, causing the graveyard person on call to be dragged in - much to their annoyance and surprise.
Now there's this. First, she decides to ignore OMLA law and tell me that I *have* to give her 3 weeks notice for all my PT appointments. Now, she's still trying to set terms, all the while backpedalling and trying to save her ass from being raked over the coals by HR, since she put the original request in writing.
She is not long for this call center - and it looks like there will be a huge sigh of relief from a number of people when she leaves.
Needless to say, I've spent the last 3 days feeling nauseous and dizzy from the stress, and my back is killing me. I didn't go to the pool on Monday, as I was still recovering some from the cold that's been kicking my butt (and has now moved onto poor Fred). I *am* going tonight, dammit, even if all I do is sit on the steps and just let the water pull the weight off my back for a bit... I need it desperately.
Friday I have another PT appointment. I will also be meeting Tom, the guy from our brace shop, and will hopefully be getting a pregnancy belly band. Apparently he has *ONE* - and luckily, it fits my current measurements. So, I'll be calling him to have him meet me at the appointment, and we will fill out paperwork, etc.
~M
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Friday, December 14, 2007
Calling all cleaners!
Cleaning party!
Date: January 5th, 2008
Time: 10am to whenever we poop out
Why? Because I need some extra help before the baby gets here
Where: Our House – you can contact us for an exact address if you need it…
I know - you're all thrilled to be offered a part in this. BUT – I promise to feed you! Such a deal!!
Honestly, I am asking this as a final step to get ready for Elizabeth's arrival. I know we can't do it without help, and we only have a few weeks left before she makes her appearance, and the house is in desperate need of assistance…
So – if you can make it over to help us, please let me know by New Years so I know how much to have ready… There will be snack-food items all day, and I'll be baking a few Papa Murphy's pizzas as well.
Date: January 5th, 2008
Time: 10am to whenever we poop out
Why? Because I need some extra help before the baby gets here
Where: Our House – you can contact us for an exact address if you need it…
I know - you're all thrilled to be offered a part in this. BUT – I promise to feed you! Such a deal!!
Honestly, I am asking this as a final step to get ready for Elizabeth's arrival. I know we can't do it without help, and we only have a few weeks left before she makes her appearance, and the house is in desperate need of assistance…
So – if you can make it over to help us, please let me know by New Years so I know how much to have ready… There will be snack-food items all day, and I'll be baking a few Papa Murphy's pizzas as well.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
4-6 weeks...
That's how little time I have left with Elizabeth on the inside. How scary is that? VERY, that's how... It means I really need to buckle down and get the rest of the room ready, clean up our room, clean up the front room, and get started with filing like I had originally planned.
I finally got all but 1 of my plants trans-potted, though that was before I re-wrenched my back this weekend. Still haven't gotten the window coverings up. Seems like whenever I get to a point where I can, Fred can't. Whenever I can't, Fred can... I know that it technically only takes 1 person to do it, but it's easier and goes faster with two.
Speaking of a wrenched back, yes, indeedy, that's what I did this last weekend. I was coughing and sneezing so much that I was out for 3 days this week trying to get it to calm down and move without pain. This morning is the first time I've woken up after a pretty decent (though typically intermittant) night's sleep with NO MAJOR PAIN! I was very excited.
I'm sure that I'll get an attempt at a lecture from the bosses today or tomorrow. If they say anything, I am going to request that the union rep be there with me, and there will be no discussion prior to that - and I won't sign anything without him present and advising me, thank you very much.
Currently, I'm just trying to get everything together to get out the door to work. So, ta! and I will write more later.
~M
I finally got all but 1 of my plants trans-potted, though that was before I re-wrenched my back this weekend. Still haven't gotten the window coverings up. Seems like whenever I get to a point where I can, Fred can't. Whenever I can't, Fred can... I know that it technically only takes 1 person to do it, but it's easier and goes faster with two.
Speaking of a wrenched back, yes, indeedy, that's what I did this last weekend. I was coughing and sneezing so much that I was out for 3 days this week trying to get it to calm down and move without pain. This morning is the first time I've woken up after a pretty decent (though typically intermittant) night's sleep with NO MAJOR PAIN! I was very excited.
I'm sure that I'll get an attempt at a lecture from the bosses today or tomorrow. If they say anything, I am going to request that the union rep be there with me, and there will be no discussion prior to that - and I won't sign anything without him present and advising me, thank you very much.
Currently, I'm just trying to get everything together to get out the door to work. So, ta! and I will write more later.
~M
Sunday, December 09, 2007
What, again?!
Yes, indeed... I have, yet again, gotten the nasty sinus infection that I've had at least 3 times prior during this fall and winter season. I know it's the same, because it starts off exactly the same. It comes on so fast that I can't even get a bit of Zycam out before I'm toppled.
This time it hit me Thursday. I went to work feeling slightly tired, but otherwise ok. By 3pm, my throat had ended up having a wire brush taken to it by several nasty elves, all of whom were sadistic enough to not stop until 7am Friday morning. I went to work because I had to, since I didn't (at that point) have any real back pain.
I ended up on a Theraflu diet again, which, as before, didn't do much of anything other than make me sleepy and sort of cranky. Saturday I spent cleaning the kitchen and taking a 3 hour nap, then heading out to meet Lil for a two hour shopping trip to Fabric Depot (a.k.a. Mecca). Yes, I was sick - however, this was also the 40% off monthly sale they have, and I needed patterns that were running at $2.50 per packet - you can't skip that... You just can't.
I made it home in time to have steak, a baked potato and green beans that Fred had whipped up, and then sit and chat with friends while trying to ignore the fact that I was exhausted, sick, and had to be up by 5 this morning for the dreaded mandatory meeting at work.
This morning greeted me with patches of ice on the parking lot floor - so, I decided to take the cab all the way into work. Turns out, it was only $20, which was a small price to pay to make sure that I got there safely, and didn't freeze my butt off, either.
The meeting was useless, as always. The only interesting highlight was having the ornament exchange. I got a few pretty ones, and gave out 7 hand-crocheted snowflakes (Yes, I'm nuts...). Then, got a ride home from one of my co-workers.
Fred decided to head out to do some Christmas shopping, since yesterday our kicker checks came in from the State. Yay, us. Raistlin decided to kidnap me to watch "Into The Woods" at her place and do laundry (saved me quarters and running back and forth up and down stairs, etc).
I got all the laundry done for me, and enjoyed watching the Sondheim classic (which I'd seen prior, but only once or twice, about 15 years ago or so). Then we headed back to my place, picking up dinner for Fred and I on the way.
Currently, my throat, which had calmed down for a bit, is back to being on fire. My sinuses have completely betrayed me and are providing no end to the green goo which is apparently so chic in nasal cavity decoration these days, and I'm in a lot of back and hip pain. We'll see how we are in the morning, but if it's still this bad, I'm not going to be able to do anything tomorrow. If I can get up, I'll go to work. If not, I'll be bugging my physical therapist for the date of my next visit.
~M
This time it hit me Thursday. I went to work feeling slightly tired, but otherwise ok. By 3pm, my throat had ended up having a wire brush taken to it by several nasty elves, all of whom were sadistic enough to not stop until 7am Friday morning. I went to work because I had to, since I didn't (at that point) have any real back pain.
I ended up on a Theraflu diet again, which, as before, didn't do much of anything other than make me sleepy and sort of cranky. Saturday I spent cleaning the kitchen and taking a 3 hour nap, then heading out to meet Lil for a two hour shopping trip to Fabric Depot (a.k.a. Mecca). Yes, I was sick - however, this was also the 40% off monthly sale they have, and I needed patterns that were running at $2.50 per packet - you can't skip that... You just can't.
I made it home in time to have steak, a baked potato and green beans that Fred had whipped up, and then sit and chat with friends while trying to ignore the fact that I was exhausted, sick, and had to be up by 5 this morning for the dreaded mandatory meeting at work.
This morning greeted me with patches of ice on the parking lot floor - so, I decided to take the cab all the way into work. Turns out, it was only $20, which was a small price to pay to make sure that I got there safely, and didn't freeze my butt off, either.
The meeting was useless, as always. The only interesting highlight was having the ornament exchange. I got a few pretty ones, and gave out 7 hand-crocheted snowflakes (Yes, I'm nuts...). Then, got a ride home from one of my co-workers.
Fred decided to head out to do some Christmas shopping, since yesterday our kicker checks came in from the State. Yay, us. Raistlin decided to kidnap me to watch "Into The Woods" at her place and do laundry (saved me quarters and running back and forth up and down stairs, etc).
I got all the laundry done for me, and enjoyed watching the Sondheim classic (which I'd seen prior, but only once or twice, about 15 years ago or so). Then we headed back to my place, picking up dinner for Fred and I on the way.
Currently, my throat, which had calmed down for a bit, is back to being on fire. My sinuses have completely betrayed me and are providing no end to the green goo which is apparently so chic in nasal cavity decoration these days, and I'm in a lot of back and hip pain. We'll see how we are in the morning, but if it's still this bad, I'm not going to be able to do anything tomorrow. If I can get up, I'll go to work. If not, I'll be bugging my physical therapist for the date of my next visit.
~M
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Update...
Yeah, I know. It's been a while. I haven't had time - or energy - to write until this morning. So, what's happened...
Well, the ergonomic assessment for the main work-site was a no-go. Ended up having to call in because I couldn't get up from bed for a good 2-3 hours due to my back. Have to reschedule that, but in the meantime, I'm setting everything up as best as possible.
I got the OMLA approved as of Thursday afternoon, which was good since, as I mentioned, I had to call in the next day. Whilst this was going on, I still hadn't been approved for time off for PT for Monday and Wednesday - I'd submitted them 3 weeks earlier, and had ended up getting them denied with no explaination. So, after talking with my union steward and filing OMLA, and after the steward talked with the new supervisor, I still hadn't gotten them approved. So, I submitted the request under "2nd request", and finally got them approved within a few hours...
Unfortunately, the new supervisor decided to write me an email about the whole thing... It was titled simply "PT Appointments", and said (and I quote):
I want you to know that I have accepted your requests this week for PT appointments. They are noted in Call Center Time.
I realize that with the recent schedule change these appointment were hard to change, however I will not be able to do anymore last minute requests of this nature in the future. There is a big impact on the Call Center when we are not properly staffed, Mondays being a very busy day, we need every agent scheduled. The callers, our customers, are the ones that suffer when we are not properly staffed, which is why I need to be very cautious when making these types of exceptions.
I hope that you feel better, if you have any appointments in the future three weeks is necessary.
My response was not amused...
As these are now covered under OMLA, I am given to understand that I am able to present them to you as my physical therapist feels them to be necessary. In regards to the two appointments that were submitted, they had been originally submitted 3 weeks in advance, but were initially denied - no reason was given.
It was at that point that I discussed options with the union representative. I do have future PT appointments, and at this time, they are not going to be 3 weeks out - mostly due to the fact that, per my physical therapist, I need them as soon as possible. This is why I applied for OMLA.
I will be submitting for time off for them under OMLA as soon as I have new appointment dates scheduled.
If you have any questions, you may contact me, or my Physical Therapist - or you may speak with our union representative.
Thank you.
So far, I haven't heard anything back from her. It's been a week, and she's only just *now* said "Good night" to me when I've headed out the door. I think she suddenly realized that she made a MAJOR goof-up.
In any case, I have had my two PT appointments this week, and they have me on the wait-list for next week for appointments. I think I overdid it at the gym last night, though... I've been heading out 3 times a week and walking the pool there for about 15-20 mins. It's mostly been helping, though with excessive walking outside of the pool, which I sort of did, ends up hurting my hip and lower back/butt muscles by the next morning... So - will have to be careful of that.
In other news, baby has officially eaten the last of my brain. Last night, I was leaving the office and inventoried my bag, which I always do, then walked out... leaving my purse behind. I didn't realize it until I was completely across town and about a 5 minute walk away from the gym. Brilliant. I panicked, and called a co-worker, who apparently can't tell what a purse looks like - he said that it wasn't there... Which led me to work out for about an hour, rather than 20 minutes, trying to relax. Which didn't work.
I then called the lead on duty, who *did* find the purse there, and he put it in the back of my desk drawer for safe keeping. I swear to the heavens - if I am this forgetful once Elizabeth is here, they're going to arrest me for child neglect because I'm going to be leaving her everywhere... *sigh*
Meanwhile - on to more pleasant things... Saturday, Lil and I will be headed over to Fabric Depot and brave the 40% off sale. I need patterns, which they'll have for $2.50 a pop, and perhaps some baby fabric - though I'm not sure... Sunday, I'll probably pop over to Raistlin's house for the day to watch "Tinman", the latest of the SciFi channel's groupings of mini-series. I got to see all but the last 2 hours of it, and while they're running it again on Sunday night, I'm not staying up until 11pm to see it. I need my sleep, dammit.
The less pleasant thing is, I put on my pants this morning and found that the baby has grown again - I haven't gained any weight to speak of, but the baby has grown... I now officially have 2 pairs of pants that I fit into. Period. The ones with zippers just don't fit. So, it'll be off to goodwill or someplace and try and find sweats and stretch pants to fit me - otherwise I'll be in mu-mu's, which just doesn't work for winter here.
Other than that, nothing much is going on. Elizabeth is apparently practicing to be the world's next kickboxing and somersaulting champion... She's very active of late...
~M
Well, the ergonomic assessment for the main work-site was a no-go. Ended up having to call in because I couldn't get up from bed for a good 2-3 hours due to my back. Have to reschedule that, but in the meantime, I'm setting everything up as best as possible.
I got the OMLA approved as of Thursday afternoon, which was good since, as I mentioned, I had to call in the next day. Whilst this was going on, I still hadn't been approved for time off for PT for Monday and Wednesday - I'd submitted them 3 weeks earlier, and had ended up getting them denied with no explaination. So, after talking with my union steward and filing OMLA, and after the steward talked with the new supervisor, I still hadn't gotten them approved. So, I submitted the request under "2nd request", and finally got them approved within a few hours...
Unfortunately, the new supervisor decided to write me an email about the whole thing... It was titled simply "PT Appointments", and said (and I quote):
I want you to know that I have accepted your requests this week for PT appointments. They are noted in Call Center Time.
I realize that with the recent schedule change these appointment were hard to change, however I will not be able to do anymore last minute requests of this nature in the future. There is a big impact on the Call Center when we are not properly staffed, Mondays being a very busy day, we need every agent scheduled. The callers, our customers, are the ones that suffer when we are not properly staffed, which is why I need to be very cautious when making these types of exceptions.
I hope that you feel better, if you have any appointments in the future three weeks is necessary.
My response was not amused...
As these are now covered under OMLA, I am given to understand that I am able to present them to you as my physical therapist feels them to be necessary. In regards to the two appointments that were submitted, they had been originally submitted 3 weeks in advance, but were initially denied - no reason was given.
It was at that point that I discussed options with the union representative. I do have future PT appointments, and at this time, they are not going to be 3 weeks out - mostly due to the fact that, per my physical therapist, I need them as soon as possible. This is why I applied for OMLA.
I will be submitting for time off for them under OMLA as soon as I have new appointment dates scheduled.
If you have any questions, you may contact me, or my Physical Therapist - or you may speak with our union representative.
Thank you.
So far, I haven't heard anything back from her. It's been a week, and she's only just *now* said "Good night" to me when I've headed out the door. I think she suddenly realized that she made a MAJOR goof-up.
In any case, I have had my two PT appointments this week, and they have me on the wait-list for next week for appointments. I think I overdid it at the gym last night, though... I've been heading out 3 times a week and walking the pool there for about 15-20 mins. It's mostly been helping, though with excessive walking outside of the pool, which I sort of did, ends up hurting my hip and lower back/butt muscles by the next morning... So - will have to be careful of that.
In other news, baby has officially eaten the last of my brain. Last night, I was leaving the office and inventoried my bag, which I always do, then walked out... leaving my purse behind. I didn't realize it until I was completely across town and about a 5 minute walk away from the gym. Brilliant. I panicked, and called a co-worker, who apparently can't tell what a purse looks like - he said that it wasn't there... Which led me to work out for about an hour, rather than 20 minutes, trying to relax. Which didn't work.
I then called the lead on duty, who *did* find the purse there, and he put it in the back of my desk drawer for safe keeping. I swear to the heavens - if I am this forgetful once Elizabeth is here, they're going to arrest me for child neglect because I'm going to be leaving her everywhere... *sigh*
Meanwhile - on to more pleasant things... Saturday, Lil and I will be headed over to Fabric Depot and brave the 40% off sale. I need patterns, which they'll have for $2.50 a pop, and perhaps some baby fabric - though I'm not sure... Sunday, I'll probably pop over to Raistlin's house for the day to watch "Tinman", the latest of the SciFi channel's groupings of mini-series. I got to see all but the last 2 hours of it, and while they're running it again on Sunday night, I'm not staying up until 11pm to see it. I need my sleep, dammit.
The less pleasant thing is, I put on my pants this morning and found that the baby has grown again - I haven't gained any weight to speak of, but the baby has grown... I now officially have 2 pairs of pants that I fit into. Period. The ones with zippers just don't fit. So, it'll be off to goodwill or someplace and try and find sweats and stretch pants to fit me - otherwise I'll be in mu-mu's, which just doesn't work for winter here.
Other than that, nothing much is going on. Elizabeth is apparently practicing to be the world's next kickboxing and somersaulting champion... She's very active of late...
~M
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Assessing...
I had a back assessment on Tuesday up at the hot site, where the ergonomics assessor was trying very hard NOT to look unimpressed with the "standard" chair there. We agreed that a small lift for the laptop I will be using, and a wrist rest for the keyboard there.
Tomorrow I get another assessment at my desk down here at my "normal" work station, so they can look at the chair I'm in, see what I need in the way of assistance ergonomics-wise, and send in yet another report. Should be interesting.
Neither of my bosses are pleased with me at all, and I'm pretty sure they're looking at any way possible to make my life miserable until I end up getting out of here to another position outside the call center. I'd go sooner, but I'm wanting to wait until after Elizabeth is born to attempt to move around job-wise.
Meanwhile, I have been throwing myself in the pool every other day during the week. This seems to be helping, at least short-term, and allows me the ability to be back-pain free for at least a few hours. I think Elizabeth also likes it, because unlike when I walk normally, she doesn't kick at all when I'm walking in the pool. Afterwards, she's more active, but it's more of a bumping, moving, squirming active, not a violent kicking active. This makes *me* happy, at least. *chuckle*
I got curious and weighed myself last night after walking in the pool. I've lost a pound... So, the total weight loss/gain for this pregnancy is: -15 lbs so far. I have two more months to go, and I'm pretty much eating whatever I want. I'm *so* glad I haven't gained a crapload of weight like my sister did... It was one of my biggest fears. Apparently even 3 times a week for 20 minutes in the pool is enough for me to balance out what I need to for now. Helps that I think Elizabeth got daddy's metabolism.
Anyway, it's almost time for me to log into day 9 of 10. One more day after today, and I'll get to have 2 days off. Yippee me!
~M
Tomorrow I get another assessment at my desk down here at my "normal" work station, so they can look at the chair I'm in, see what I need in the way of assistance ergonomics-wise, and send in yet another report. Should be interesting.
Neither of my bosses are pleased with me at all, and I'm pretty sure they're looking at any way possible to make my life miserable until I end up getting out of here to another position outside the call center. I'd go sooner, but I'm wanting to wait until after Elizabeth is born to attempt to move around job-wise.
Meanwhile, I have been throwing myself in the pool every other day during the week. This seems to be helping, at least short-term, and allows me the ability to be back-pain free for at least a few hours. I think Elizabeth also likes it, because unlike when I walk normally, she doesn't kick at all when I'm walking in the pool. Afterwards, she's more active, but it's more of a bumping, moving, squirming active, not a violent kicking active. This makes *me* happy, at least. *chuckle*
I got curious and weighed myself last night after walking in the pool. I've lost a pound... So, the total weight loss/gain for this pregnancy is: -15 lbs so far. I have two more months to go, and I'm pretty much eating whatever I want. I'm *so* glad I haven't gained a crapload of weight like my sister did... It was one of my biggest fears. Apparently even 3 times a week for 20 minutes in the pool is enough for me to balance out what I need to for now. Helps that I think Elizabeth got daddy's metabolism.
Anyway, it's almost time for me to log into day 9 of 10. One more day after today, and I'll get to have 2 days off. Yippee me!
~M
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Oy...
My back is semi-ok... At least, for about 12 hours after I get out of the pool. Then it goes back to it's now-normal pain issues.
Had my ergonomic assessment today. My boss is *none* too pleased with me for insisting on a different chair and making a "big deal" out of the situation "just because the chairs are uncomfortable".
They denied my time off for physical therapy appointments that I put in 3 weeks in advance - just like they requested that I do. So, went to my union rep. Going to be filing for OMLA, and once that's approved, there will be no more issues with it whatsoever. Another thing my boss is *none* too pleased with. Waah, I say - wah!
~M
Had my ergonomic assessment today. My boss is *none* too pleased with me for insisting on a different chair and making a "big deal" out of the situation "just because the chairs are uncomfortable".
They denied my time off for physical therapy appointments that I put in 3 weeks in advance - just like they requested that I do. So, went to my union rep. Going to be filing for OMLA, and once that's approved, there will be no more issues with it whatsoever. Another thing my boss is *none* too pleased with. Waah, I say - wah!
~M
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Is it can be nap tiem naow? (warning, whining)
I have not been sleeping well over the past few days. Partly due to stress, partly due to pain in my hip, and partly due to baby.
I am about ready to fall asleep on my desk, regardless of the pain that smacking my head against the keyboard would entail. I pretty much just don't care...
Think I'm going to sleep in tomorrow, if at all possible.
Currently, I am feeling the muscles twitch in my legs - commonly referred to as Restless Leg Syndrome. It comes on when I need more sleep, and can get really annoying the longer I go without sleeping. Normally it culminates in me curling up into a ball in bed and simply attempting to breathe normally enough to calm everything down. If I don't end up getting there, I usually have the overwhelming urge to simply cry in frustration from the twitching, because I can't get it to stop any other way.
All I want to do right now is go home and sleep. I am not looking forward to the next 2 hours.
FYI - my christmas list has been updated yet again... Happy holidays.
~M
I am about ready to fall asleep on my desk, regardless of the pain that smacking my head against the keyboard would entail. I pretty much just don't care...
Think I'm going to sleep in tomorrow, if at all possible.
Currently, I am feeling the muscles twitch in my legs - commonly referred to as Restless Leg Syndrome. It comes on when I need more sleep, and can get really annoying the longer I go without sleeping. Normally it culminates in me curling up into a ball in bed and simply attempting to breathe normally enough to calm everything down. If I don't end up getting there, I usually have the overwhelming urge to simply cry in frustration from the twitching, because I can't get it to stop any other way.
All I want to do right now is go home and sleep. I am not looking forward to the next 2 hours.
FYI - my christmas list has been updated yet again... Happy holidays.
~M
Friday, November 23, 2007
The bestest turkey ever!
At least, that was the general consensus of everyone who came over last night and had dinner at our house.
The brine made the difference, I think. The breast meat was pretty much just as tender as the dark was, and just as juicy.
There was much ooh-ing and ahh-ing over the mashed potatoes and gravy, and apparently Angst and Fred both adored the cornbread stuffing. Everyone was pretty happy with it all, though we all agreed that, due to both the cranberries and the sweet sausage, next time I make it I will use the italian sausage, hold the cranberries, and add more sage to it. I think that will make a really nice, savory dressing, rather than a sweet one.
If you're wondering how to make a perfect turkey, let me share with you the secret to perfection...
BRINE (This is enough for a 14-16 lb turkey, or 2 avg ducks):
The software:
1 gal chicken stock
1 c kosher salt
1 c sugar
1 lg onion, quartered
2 oranges, quartered
1 Tbsp each: rosemary, thyme, sage, dried
12 cracked peppercorns
**1 gal ice water**
The Hardware:
2 gal stockpot
1 strainer
5 gal plastic bucket, CLEANED
Heat all ingredients (less the ice water) in stock pot until boiling and all granules dissolved. Remove from heat, place in fridge to cool completely. Once cooled, strain all solids out.
Take thawed turkey from fridge. Remove neck and giblets from the cavity, and rinse turkey in a clean sink. Pat dry, then place breast-down into plastic bucket. Pour brine over turkey, then ice water over turkey. If necessary, place heavy brick or 8 lb dumbbells into plastic ziplock bags and place on turkey to hold down.
Leave in a cold place for 8 hours.
ROASTING:
The Software:
1 orange, quartered
1 lg onion, quartered
1 bunch fresh herbs: Thyme, Sage, Tarragon
3 Tbsp canola oil
salt & pepper
The hardware:
1 roasting pan large enough to hold turkey without sides touching, lined with foil
1 flat rack to place turkey on
2 layers foil (to cover turkey breast)
1 thermometer (able to be left in turkey through roasting time)
Pre-heat oven to 500 degrees (yes, really). Remove turkey from brine and place onto roasting pan. Pat dry, and salt and pepper inside of cavity. Place orange, herbs and onion into cavity. Oil the outside of the bird, then salt and pepper it.
Place into heated oven on lowest rack for 30 minutes AND NO MORE. If you notice at 20 minutes that it looks very dark brown, remove turkey and go on with the rest of the instructions... Here:
Turn down oven to 375. Place thermometer into meatiest part of breast. Cover breast completely with foil. Place back into oven and close door. Remove once the internal temp hits 161-163 degrees. DO NOT OPEN OVEN CONSTANTLY OR BASTE IT! Leave it alone, let it roast.
At the point it hits 161 - 163 degrees, turn off heat, remove turkey, and place under loose covering. DO NOT REMOVE THERMOMETER YET. Let it rest for 15 minutes, and don't peek. It's still cooking, and will hit 166 degrees - trust me.
Serve with all the side dishes and trimmings that you want.
~M
The brine made the difference, I think. The breast meat was pretty much just as tender as the dark was, and just as juicy.
There was much ooh-ing and ahh-ing over the mashed potatoes and gravy, and apparently Angst and Fred both adored the cornbread stuffing. Everyone was pretty happy with it all, though we all agreed that, due to both the cranberries and the sweet sausage, next time I make it I will use the italian sausage, hold the cranberries, and add more sage to it. I think that will make a really nice, savory dressing, rather than a sweet one.
If you're wondering how to make a perfect turkey, let me share with you the secret to perfection...
BRINE (This is enough for a 14-16 lb turkey, or 2 avg ducks):
The software:
1 gal chicken stock
1 c kosher salt
1 c sugar
1 lg onion, quartered
2 oranges, quartered
1 Tbsp each: rosemary, thyme, sage, dried
12 cracked peppercorns
**1 gal ice water**
The Hardware:
2 gal stockpot
1 strainer
5 gal plastic bucket, CLEANED
Heat all ingredients (less the ice water) in stock pot until boiling and all granules dissolved. Remove from heat, place in fridge to cool completely. Once cooled, strain all solids out.
Take thawed turkey from fridge. Remove neck and giblets from the cavity, and rinse turkey in a clean sink. Pat dry, then place breast-down into plastic bucket. Pour brine over turkey, then ice water over turkey. If necessary, place heavy brick or 8 lb dumbbells into plastic ziplock bags and place on turkey to hold down.
Leave in a cold place for 8 hours.
ROASTING:
The Software:
1 orange, quartered
1 lg onion, quartered
1 bunch fresh herbs: Thyme, Sage, Tarragon
3 Tbsp canola oil
salt & pepper
The hardware:
1 roasting pan large enough to hold turkey without sides touching, lined with foil
1 flat rack to place turkey on
2 layers foil (to cover turkey breast)
1 thermometer (able to be left in turkey through roasting time)
Pre-heat oven to 500 degrees (yes, really). Remove turkey from brine and place onto roasting pan. Pat dry, and salt and pepper inside of cavity. Place orange, herbs and onion into cavity. Oil the outside of the bird, then salt and pepper it.
Place into heated oven on lowest rack for 30 minutes AND NO MORE. If you notice at 20 minutes that it looks very dark brown, remove turkey and go on with the rest of the instructions... Here:
Turn down oven to 375. Place thermometer into meatiest part of breast. Cover breast completely with foil. Place back into oven and close door. Remove once the internal temp hits 161-163 degrees. DO NOT OPEN OVEN CONSTANTLY OR BASTE IT! Leave it alone, let it roast.
At the point it hits 161 - 163 degrees, turn off heat, remove turkey, and place under loose covering. DO NOT REMOVE THERMOMETER YET. Let it rest for 15 minutes, and don't peek. It's still cooking, and will hit 166 degrees - trust me.
Serve with all the side dishes and trimmings that you want.
~M
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Excitement already?!
Well, sort of... It was an adventure, at least.
For those who don't know, let me give you a bit of background about our fabulous transit system. Most times, it really *is* fairly fabulous. It runs (sometimes off times, but it does run), and gets me, for the most part, to work and back home again on time. HOWEVER - there are occasions, such as holidays and Sundays, when the bus doesn't begin to run until after 7am.
This becomes a problem when one must make a trip downtown for work, but has no vehicle. The last few times, I've relied on the local cab company to take me to the nearest transit center, where I can catch the one thing that *is* running at 5:30am - the MAX: our lightrail system.
By and large, the cab company I use is great. It arrives in a reasonable amount of time, and the drivers are, normally both polite and friendly. If they don't know where they're going, or don't recognize the name/address, they will ask if I can direct them. This isn't a problem for me, either. I may not have a vehicle, but I know how to drive, and where I'm going.
This morning, being Thanksgiving, the busses were on the holiday/Sunday schedule, which meant that I was going to have to head over to the transit center. So, I called the cab company and waited for them to arrive.
It didn't take the driver long to get there. However, I had this hinky feeling that all was not right with the gods of travel. I gave him my destination name "Beaverton Transit Center", and he nodded, then pulled out onto the main drag. The next thing I knew, we were headed onto the local highway, going right past the exit he would have needed to GET to said transit center. He passed by two more exits, and I knew then that he had NO idea where we were going - or it was an imposter bent on kidnapping me for horrible purposes...
I asked him where we were headed, and why we were going this way. He pointed to the off-ramp which lead to another highway, this one heading perpendicular to the one we were on (and heading further away from the destination I had originally requested), and muttered something about Transit Center. I said no, that's not the way to the Beaverton Transit Center. That one is behind us, and we passed by all the exits to get there already. He pointed up toward where there was, indeed another transit center, nearby where we'd pulled off (further away from my house, but would still do the purpose).
I tell him, as he begins to pull out, to go ahead and go there, since I need to go to work. He takes the other ramp, and pulls out onto the highway rather than the off-ramp, and starts driving again. At this point, I'm thoroughly confused. It's obvious he speaks very little english and doesn't know his way around Beaverton, but he is unwilling to take direction from me, unwilling to ASK for directions, and is basically doing his own thing. And the meter tab is getting higher the further we go.
He pulls off on the next exit, about 3 miles from where we pulled onto this highway. He then starts driving back toward Beaverton, and calls someone on his cell phone, presumably to ask for directions. I know exactly where we are, since I used to work and drive down this road. It goes past the front entrance to Nike's campus, and then over to where I used to work, at Stream. He's not slowing down as we get to the road he should be taking to get to the transit center, either.
"Take a right," I tell him.
"Oh! *NOW* you know the way?" he glances into the mirror at me, an annoyed look on his face.
"I've known the way since we pulled out of my driveway. *YOU* didn't. You never asked me."
Sulking from front of cab ensues.
"And," I add, "I'm not paying $26 for a cab ride that should only have cost me $7-$8, thank you."
More sulking, then "Ok, ok. I fix, I fix... (pause) For the second time!" He then starts trying to figure out which road to turn onto from the main drag to get to the transit system.
"Next one, take a left" I tell him.
There's construction on that street, so it's split with cones - he tries to pull onto the wrong side... so I point out he has to go to the other side. Then he drives down the road attempting to pull into any and every driveway he can find, trying to look like he knows where he's going.
He finally finds the bus portion of the transit center and pulls in there. He turns off the meter, clears it, and writes $7 onto the charge slip. I decline to give him ANY tip at all, and get out of the cab, pissed.
I still cannot believe how insane this morning went. In comparison, walking the 12 blocks from the MAX tracks to work was a delightful and easy trip.
~M
For those who don't know, let me give you a bit of background about our fabulous transit system. Most times, it really *is* fairly fabulous. It runs (sometimes off times, but it does run), and gets me, for the most part, to work and back home again on time. HOWEVER - there are occasions, such as holidays and Sundays, when the bus doesn't begin to run until after 7am.
This becomes a problem when one must make a trip downtown for work, but has no vehicle. The last few times, I've relied on the local cab company to take me to the nearest transit center, where I can catch the one thing that *is* running at 5:30am - the MAX: our lightrail system.
By and large, the cab company I use is great. It arrives in a reasonable amount of time, and the drivers are, normally both polite and friendly. If they don't know where they're going, or don't recognize the name/address, they will ask if I can direct them. This isn't a problem for me, either. I may not have a vehicle, but I know how to drive, and where I'm going.
This morning, being Thanksgiving, the busses were on the holiday/Sunday schedule, which meant that I was going to have to head over to the transit center. So, I called the cab company and waited for them to arrive.
It didn't take the driver long to get there. However, I had this hinky feeling that all was not right with the gods of travel. I gave him my destination name "Beaverton Transit Center", and he nodded, then pulled out onto the main drag. The next thing I knew, we were headed onto the local highway, going right past the exit he would have needed to GET to said transit center. He passed by two more exits, and I knew then that he had NO idea where we were going - or it was an imposter bent on kidnapping me for horrible purposes...
I asked him where we were headed, and why we were going this way. He pointed to the off-ramp which lead to another highway, this one heading perpendicular to the one we were on (and heading further away from the destination I had originally requested), and muttered something about Transit Center. I said no, that's not the way to the Beaverton Transit Center. That one is behind us, and we passed by all the exits to get there already. He pointed up toward where there was, indeed another transit center, nearby where we'd pulled off (further away from my house, but would still do the purpose).
I tell him, as he begins to pull out, to go ahead and go there, since I need to go to work. He takes the other ramp, and pulls out onto the highway rather than the off-ramp, and starts driving again. At this point, I'm thoroughly confused. It's obvious he speaks very little english and doesn't know his way around Beaverton, but he is unwilling to take direction from me, unwilling to ASK for directions, and is basically doing his own thing. And the meter tab is getting higher the further we go.
He pulls off on the next exit, about 3 miles from where we pulled onto this highway. He then starts driving back toward Beaverton, and calls someone on his cell phone, presumably to ask for directions. I know exactly where we are, since I used to work and drive down this road. It goes past the front entrance to Nike's campus, and then over to where I used to work, at Stream. He's not slowing down as we get to the road he should be taking to get to the transit center, either.
"Take a right," I tell him.
"Oh! *NOW* you know the way?" he glances into the mirror at me, an annoyed look on his face.
"I've known the way since we pulled out of my driveway. *YOU* didn't. You never asked me."
Sulking from front of cab ensues.
"And," I add, "I'm not paying $26 for a cab ride that should only have cost me $7-$8, thank you."
More sulking, then "Ok, ok. I fix, I fix... (pause) For the second time!" He then starts trying to figure out which road to turn onto from the main drag to get to the transit system.
"Next one, take a left" I tell him.
There's construction on that street, so it's split with cones - he tries to pull onto the wrong side... so I point out he has to go to the other side. Then he drives down the road attempting to pull into any and every driveway he can find, trying to look like he knows where he's going.
He finally finds the bus portion of the transit center and pulls in there. He turns off the meter, clears it, and writes $7 onto the charge slip. I decline to give him ANY tip at all, and get out of the cab, pissed.
I still cannot believe how insane this morning went. In comparison, walking the 12 blocks from the MAX tracks to work was a delightful and easy trip.
~M
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Mmmmm, tasty!
Thanksgiving Menu 2007
Oven-Roasted Turkey
Brined for 8 hours, stuffed with aromatic herbs, onion and orange, then roasted to juicy perfection
Roasted Garlic Smashed Potatoes
Sweet-roasted garlic, combined with peeled, cooked potatoes and smashed with butter and milk. Seasoned delicately with salt and pepper
Sausage & Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread, maple syrup sausage and cranberries fill out this fabulous stuffing. Onions, carrots, celery and fresh sage round out this dish
Fresh Jellied CranberriesSweetened fresh-cooked cranberries in gelatin, with a hint of orange zest
Buttered Green Beans
Green beans seasoned with butter, salt and pepper - clean flavored and fresh
Desserts and drinks provided by guests
Oven-Roasted Turkey
Brined for 8 hours, stuffed with aromatic herbs, onion and orange, then roasted to juicy perfection
Roasted Garlic Smashed Potatoes
Sweet-roasted garlic, combined with peeled, cooked potatoes and smashed with butter and milk. Seasoned delicately with salt and pepper
Sausage & Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread, maple syrup sausage and cranberries fill out this fabulous stuffing. Onions, carrots, celery and fresh sage round out this dish
Fresh Jellied CranberriesSweetened fresh-cooked cranberries in gelatin, with a hint of orange zest
Buttered Green Beans
Green beans seasoned with butter, salt and pepper - clean flavored and fresh
Desserts and drinks provided by guests
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Thanksgiving...
So, yes, Fred and I are hosting our annual Family & Friends Thanksgiving. It'll be on Turkey day, so if you don't have plans and would like to come out to celebrate with us, feel free to do so.
It's BYOB, and will be the traditional gnosh of Turkey, roasted garlic smashed potatoes, gravy and green beans. Also, if you want a dessert, bring that as well, since I'm not going to stress myself about it.
Since I work that day, I won't be home until around 4:30-ish. This means that dinner will most likely be around 6:30 or 7-ish. If you'd like to come early and hang out, please feel free to watch me hustle around the kitchen getting the turkey in the oven and the potatoes ready to be boiled for smashing...
I will most likely stick in an old favorite movie and have that playing in the background for everyone's enjoyment. So far, we have Raistlin and Corey coming by. I heard that Angst would like to join in the festivities as well, and is more than welcome... Anyone else who would like to come along, please just drop a line and let me know. There should be plenty. I have a 16 lb turkey, and can do upwards of 10 lbs of potatoes without breaking a sweat.
~M
It's BYOB, and will be the traditional gnosh of Turkey, roasted garlic smashed potatoes, gravy and green beans. Also, if you want a dessert, bring that as well, since I'm not going to stress myself about it.
Since I work that day, I won't be home until around 4:30-ish. This means that dinner will most likely be around 6:30 or 7-ish. If you'd like to come early and hang out, please feel free to watch me hustle around the kitchen getting the turkey in the oven and the potatoes ready to be boiled for smashing...
I will most likely stick in an old favorite movie and have that playing in the background for everyone's enjoyment. So far, we have Raistlin and Corey coming by. I heard that Angst would like to join in the festivities as well, and is more than welcome... Anyone else who would like to come along, please just drop a line and let me know. There should be plenty. I have a 16 lb turkey, and can do upwards of 10 lbs of potatoes without breaking a sweat.
~M
Friday, November 16, 2007
Discworld quiz results
 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Which Discworld Character are you like (with pics) created with QuizFarm.com | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| You scored as Gytha (Nanny) Ogg You are Nanny Ogg! A talented witch, able to make yourself at home wherever you are, and insist that Greebo is just a big softie. You enjoy drinking, a lot, and singing about a hedgehog. You have a huge family, and get your daughters-in-law to do most of the housework. You are kind and gentle, and help put people at ease.
|
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Pobrecita!
Our dear feline baby is having allergy issues. I'm assuming that it really *was* an upper respiratory infection that she had when she got to us, but some of the symptoms simply haven't gone away - such as the sneezing, and the watery/mucus-y eyes. The poor dear is miserable, and allows me to wipe her face off once or twice a day with a warm, damp cloth... Which shows how truly miserable she is, since normally such things would *not* be tolerated by a cat.
So - today I went online and ordered some homeopathic anti-allergy meds. Since we have no idea whether she could be allergice to dipenhydromene or chlorphentermine (and chlorphentermine is *NOT* recommended for use in cats), I'm going to try the "safe" stuff first. There were 6 reviews from people who said that it worked wonders on their cat, and described the exact same symptoms that Jazzy has been having. So, I figure, while it's a little more expensive than the Rx stuff, I am more willing to try it, since it has very little in the way of side effects listed or mentioned by owners. And, no drowsiness, either, which is a good thing.
I also got another tub of catnip. I'm hoping that, if we can get her nose and eyes cleared up, she will feel LOTS better and be up to exploring a bit more. I'm also considering getting something called "Feline Calmer", which apparently is a pheremone scent for cats that gets them more comfy in their new home or with a new situation. If Jazzy is still skittish by December, I will pick some up and see how she does with it. I don't want her feeling like she has to live under the bed for the rest of her life - she loves people, she's just not sure of how they will treat her, poor baby.
~M
So - today I went online and ordered some homeopathic anti-allergy meds. Since we have no idea whether she could be allergice to dipenhydromene or chlorphentermine (and chlorphentermine is *NOT* recommended for use in cats), I'm going to try the "safe" stuff first. There were 6 reviews from people who said that it worked wonders on their cat, and described the exact same symptoms that Jazzy has been having. So, I figure, while it's a little more expensive than the Rx stuff, I am more willing to try it, since it has very little in the way of side effects listed or mentioned by owners. And, no drowsiness, either, which is a good thing.
I also got another tub of catnip. I'm hoping that, if we can get her nose and eyes cleared up, she will feel LOTS better and be up to exploring a bit more. I'm also considering getting something called "Feline Calmer", which apparently is a pheremone scent for cats that gets them more comfy in their new home or with a new situation. If Jazzy is still skittish by December, I will pick some up and see how she does with it. I don't want her feeling like she has to live under the bed for the rest of her life - she loves people, she's just not sure of how they will treat her, poor baby.
~M
Sunday, November 11, 2007
What, back again?!
Yes, indeed... But really, it's only because I have to write this down while it's still occurring to me to do so.
See, the lucious Lil and I work together. And since she was called in for graveyard, she decided to bring in the baby shower pressie for Fred and I that she hadn't been able to get to us prior (she had to work on the 3rd... stupid scheduling).
So, I come in yesterday and see this very large bag on my desk. Curious, I set everything down, get frozen dinner in freezer and set up my lunch, then open the bag to find...
A really lovely baby blanket she had crocheted in 3 different shades of purple, and white as a base color. It's a zig-zag pattern, that has a really nifty pattern in it - the purples sort of flutter down into the white, and back up again.
The other part was the snoopy diaper bag I'd been wanting - and when I saw Lil next, she told me the story that went along with it, which is super funny (ok, well, it's super funny to me.):
See, my brother (whom she has been "living in sin" (as she puts it) with for the past 8 years), is not so hot on babies - or on pregnant women, for that matter. It's not that he necessarily dislikes them, he'd just rather not be around a person who is so totally ruled by hormones and estrogen that it feels like a mini-hurricane of emotion just to step close to them. I accept and understand that. I can hardly stand myself lately at times for just that reason.
In any case, he decides to brave Babies R' Us in order to gain one diaper bag, and scratch it off my baby shower list. Not only that, but apparently he braved the larger of the two in the area - alone! Lil said he reported afterwards that it was an extremely surreal experience, and he never wanted to go through that ever again. *chuckle*. The worst part, apparently, was having the diaper bag mistaken for a baby (WTF? I cannot see this, but apparently I'm not so far gone as the clerk at the store was). In typical fashion for him, he grinned, picked it up, and shook it in front of the horrified clerk - apparently she realized pretty quickly it wasn't a baby.
I damned near died laughing when I heard that. It's just so... him.
Seriously, though, it took a buttload of guts and love for him to traipse that far out of his normal shopping area, and into a store designed purely to give him the willies just with their advertisements of happy small babies and baby toys (not to mention the interesting torture devices they sell to moms under the guise of helping them through the first years).
Hugs to you, little brother! I promise not to sic Elizabeth on you while she's ill. *wink*
~M
See, the lucious Lil and I work together. And since she was called in for graveyard, she decided to bring in the baby shower pressie for Fred and I that she hadn't been able to get to us prior (she had to work on the 3rd... stupid scheduling).
So, I come in yesterday and see this very large bag on my desk. Curious, I set everything down, get frozen dinner in freezer and set up my lunch, then open the bag to find...
A really lovely baby blanket she had crocheted in 3 different shades of purple, and white as a base color. It's a zig-zag pattern, that has a really nifty pattern in it - the purples sort of flutter down into the white, and back up again.
The other part was the snoopy diaper bag I'd been wanting - and when I saw Lil next, she told me the story that went along with it, which is super funny (ok, well, it's super funny to me.):
See, my brother (whom she has been "living in sin" (as she puts it) with for the past 8 years), is not so hot on babies - or on pregnant women, for that matter. It's not that he necessarily dislikes them, he'd just rather not be around a person who is so totally ruled by hormones and estrogen that it feels like a mini-hurricane of emotion just to step close to them. I accept and understand that. I can hardly stand myself lately at times for just that reason.
In any case, he decides to brave Babies R' Us in order to gain one diaper bag, and scratch it off my baby shower list. Not only that, but apparently he braved the larger of the two in the area - alone! Lil said he reported afterwards that it was an extremely surreal experience, and he never wanted to go through that ever again. *chuckle*. The worst part, apparently, was having the diaper bag mistaken for a baby (WTF? I cannot see this, but apparently I'm not so far gone as the clerk at the store was). In typical fashion for him, he grinned, picked it up, and shook it in front of the horrified clerk - apparently she realized pretty quickly it wasn't a baby.
I damned near died laughing when I heard that. It's just so... him.
Seriously, though, it took a buttload of guts and love for him to traipse that far out of his normal shopping area, and into a store designed purely to give him the willies just with their advertisements of happy small babies and baby toys (not to mention the interesting torture devices they sell to moms under the guise of helping them through the first years).
Hugs to you, little brother! I promise not to sic Elizabeth on you while she's ill. *wink*
~M
Attend the tale...
For those who may have lived under a rock, or not kept up with the times and popular movie releases, you may not be aware that Tim Burton’s latest creation, the adaptation of Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd, will be let loose as of December 21st – just in time for Christmas.
If you aren’t already aware of the background of the story, or if you simply don’t like musicals and have shied away from Sweeney Todd because it is in that genre, I assure you, you are missing out. After all, as Johnny Depp pointed out when signing onto the project “How many chances do you get at a musical about a serial killer?”
The character of Sweeney Todd, at least the one re-created by Stephen Sondheim, is the epitome of the anti-hero. Not only is he wronged by society repeatedly, he gives way to letting go his own humanity and the sheen of civility that keeps most all human beings in check, subsequently following through with base human instincts of revenge and personal justice.
The basic premise of the story is simple. A young successful barber, Benjamin Barker by name, is married to a lovely young woman named Lucy. They have a small child, barely a year old, and life is good. However, a judge covets Barker’s wife from afar and hatches a plan with his sergeant (known as the Beatle) to arrest Barker on trumped up charges and deporting him to Australia for life. As this leaves Lucy without a protector and with a one-year old child also to take care of, the judge hopes that this will cause Lucy to turn to him for assistance – which he will give, in the way of marriage. One thing leads to another and when we next see anything, it’s a much changed, harsher-looking, darker Barker, now sailing home under then name Sweeney Todd, attempting to find his lost wife and child and somehow get his life back in order… As well as contemplating getting even with the judge.
It is discovered that Lucy is nowhere to be found, and his child is being raised by the judge himself as his ward. It is then that Todd’s mind, fragile as it was when he arrived back in London, shatters. Not only was he taken from his life by corrupt forces, but when he comes back to attempt to reclaim it somehow, he finds it impossible – and the corrupt judge has taken his daughter from him as well, and raised her almost as his own.
Todd decides then and there that he will exact full revenge on the judge and the Beatle, and make sure that anyone getting in his way of doing so will suffer the same fate. Obviously, this is not a happily ever after musical, but instead one that will fulfill an audience’s lust for blood, vengeance and an insane justice.
There are interesting side quirks to Todd, throughout the play. He slides from almost pure madness, to cold calculation, to almost perfect sanity, depending on his mood and the situation. There are also times when dark humor bubbles up and takes over, causing the audience to groan with bad puns and laugh with his witty comebacks. While we can see that he no longer has the mental capacity to function in society properly, we cannot help but sympathize with the situation: how many of us have wanted to simply let go of our personal self-limiting based on right and wrong and simply go after someone for what they’ve done to us, real or imagined?
Sweeney Todd is, as I mentioned, not a happily-ever-after play. Not even close. Happily-ever-after would be that he was saved at the last minute prior to being shipped off in the first place, rejoined with his family, and the judge, found to be corrupt, was placed on the boat in Todd’s spot.
Another happily-ever-after scene would be him coming back after being shipped off, finding that his wife and daughter had somehow managed to make their way through the years waiting for him, and finding that the judge had been executed for repeated corruption.
No, instead, he knows instinctively that his decision to seek revenge upon both the judge and the Beatle will not end happily – it will have satisfaction, but no happiness. Todd carries with him an air of resigned acceptance that, once he has fulfilled his revenge, he will die, most likely horribly.
It is an interesting character, and one that I have repeatedly enjoyed watching bloom across the screen and stage each time. I cannot wait to see Johnny Depp and Tim Burton’s adaptation of it. The previews look insanely wonderful, and I will be there opening night come hell or high water…
“Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd…
He served a dark and a vengeful god…
What happened next, well that’s the play
And he wouldn’t want us to give it away!
Not Sweeney!
Not Sweeney Todd!
The Demon barber of Fleet… Street!”
If you aren’t already aware of the background of the story, or if you simply don’t like musicals and have shied away from Sweeney Todd because it is in that genre, I assure you, you are missing out. After all, as Johnny Depp pointed out when signing onto the project “How many chances do you get at a musical about a serial killer?”
The character of Sweeney Todd, at least the one re-created by Stephen Sondheim, is the epitome of the anti-hero. Not only is he wronged by society repeatedly, he gives way to letting go his own humanity and the sheen of civility that keeps most all human beings in check, subsequently following through with base human instincts of revenge and personal justice.
The basic premise of the story is simple. A young successful barber, Benjamin Barker by name, is married to a lovely young woman named Lucy. They have a small child, barely a year old, and life is good. However, a judge covets Barker’s wife from afar and hatches a plan with his sergeant (known as the Beatle) to arrest Barker on trumped up charges and deporting him to Australia for life. As this leaves Lucy without a protector and with a one-year old child also to take care of, the judge hopes that this will cause Lucy to turn to him for assistance – which he will give, in the way of marriage. One thing leads to another and when we next see anything, it’s a much changed, harsher-looking, darker Barker, now sailing home under then name Sweeney Todd, attempting to find his lost wife and child and somehow get his life back in order… As well as contemplating getting even with the judge.
It is discovered that Lucy is nowhere to be found, and his child is being raised by the judge himself as his ward. It is then that Todd’s mind, fragile as it was when he arrived back in London, shatters. Not only was he taken from his life by corrupt forces, but when he comes back to attempt to reclaim it somehow, he finds it impossible – and the corrupt judge has taken his daughter from him as well, and raised her almost as his own.
Todd decides then and there that he will exact full revenge on the judge and the Beatle, and make sure that anyone getting in his way of doing so will suffer the same fate. Obviously, this is not a happily ever after musical, but instead one that will fulfill an audience’s lust for blood, vengeance and an insane justice.
There are interesting side quirks to Todd, throughout the play. He slides from almost pure madness, to cold calculation, to almost perfect sanity, depending on his mood and the situation. There are also times when dark humor bubbles up and takes over, causing the audience to groan with bad puns and laugh with his witty comebacks. While we can see that he no longer has the mental capacity to function in society properly, we cannot help but sympathize with the situation: how many of us have wanted to simply let go of our personal self-limiting based on right and wrong and simply go after someone for what they’ve done to us, real or imagined?
Sweeney Todd is, as I mentioned, not a happily-ever-after play. Not even close. Happily-ever-after would be that he was saved at the last minute prior to being shipped off in the first place, rejoined with his family, and the judge, found to be corrupt, was placed on the boat in Todd’s spot.
Another happily-ever-after scene would be him coming back after being shipped off, finding that his wife and daughter had somehow managed to make their way through the years waiting for him, and finding that the judge had been executed for repeated corruption.
No, instead, he knows instinctively that his decision to seek revenge upon both the judge and the Beatle will not end happily – it will have satisfaction, but no happiness. Todd carries with him an air of resigned acceptance that, once he has fulfilled his revenge, he will die, most likely horribly.
It is an interesting character, and one that I have repeatedly enjoyed watching bloom across the screen and stage each time. I cannot wait to see Johnny Depp and Tim Burton’s adaptation of it. The previews look insanely wonderful, and I will be there opening night come hell or high water…
“Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd…
He served a dark and a vengeful god…
What happened next, well that’s the play
And he wouldn’t want us to give it away!
Not Sweeney!
Not Sweeney Todd!
The Demon barber of Fleet… Street!”
Christmas is coming...
So, there has been a request for a Christmas list from me… So, here it is, in no particular order:
• New sweaters that fit (my current ones are getting threadbare and really old)
• Silk button-down shirts
• Strawberry jug planter with culinary herb seeds or starters
• New doumbek (a LOT on the extravagant side, but there ya go)
• Soundtrack to the 1982 Sweeney Todd (Starring Angela Lansbury and George Hearn) AND
• Soundtrack / DVD to “Into The Woods”
• Quilting tools (mat, rotary cutter, square and T-bar, that type of thing)
• MP3 player, 3-4G format... Again, a lot on the extravagant side...
• Queen size 2-3" thick foam mattress pad for the bed. It wants comfort.
I can’t think of anything else that I really want at the moment that is something at least technically feasible…
~M
• New sweaters that fit (my current ones are getting threadbare and really old)
• Silk button-down shirts
• Strawberry jug planter with culinary herb seeds or starters
• New doumbek (a LOT on the extravagant side, but there ya go)
• Soundtrack to the 1982 Sweeney Todd (Starring Angela Lansbury and George Hearn) AND
• Soundtrack / DVD to “Into The Woods”
• Quilting tools (mat, rotary cutter, square and T-bar, that type of thing)
• MP3 player, 3-4G format... Again, a lot on the extravagant side...
• Queen size 2-3" thick foam mattress pad for the bed. It wants comfort.
I can’t think of anything else that I really want at the moment that is something at least technically feasible…
~M
Slow, but getting there...
I'm still in a blah stage, but I have some ideas now on how to make sure things get better - not to mention how to deal with stuff while I'm out of work.
First of all, an old friend of mine is on her way to Bend to visit some friends. While there, she's offered to come up and help me get some of the house together (caulking, planting, and doing the windows). So, there are three major things I don't have to worry about at this point.
Also, I woke up this morning with a better idea on how to make it through the weeks that I'll be out of work, and (hopefully) make sure that I can pay bills and such while sitting on my proverbial butt getting to know Elizabeth. One of the (a-hem) nice things about having a student loan is that occasionally you can place them on a hiatus. So, I will do so in December, and talk with them to have it go through March. I will then put aside that money ($310 per month) into the household checking account, and that should cover all the bills and rent necessary to be taken care of until I'm back at work.
Also, tax time will help out as well, since we file online normally, and can usually get everything within 3-4 weeks of filing - which means by mid-March, we'll have a fairly nice check coming through which will also help out with bills.
I've decided not to worry about the holidays. They will come whether I worry or not, and worry will only make it more stressful and upsetting. Rather, I will focus on doing nifty small projects for all of my friends as gifties, which will (hopefully) keep my hands filled on the bus to and from work, and even some at work, if they have no projects for me to do.
Speaking of work, as of the 26th, I will be on permanent days, from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. This means two things: Fred and I will *finally* be able to have days off together, and as of Elizabeth's birth, both of us will need to be fighting with the State of Oregon about the child support Fred is paying, so we can pay for adequate daycare for Elizabeth. I had considered going with Kinder Care, but they want over $600 per month to take care of her for two or three days a week, which we simply cannot afford right now or in the near future - and that's with my work discount.
SO - we are hopeful to do three things with the upcoming situation... Get a 3-bedroom on the first floor of our apartment complex (it's an extra $50 a month, but that covers water usage for a washer/dryer), and get someone reliable and trustworthy to move into the 3rd bedroom as a roommate to help defer costs so we have a bit more for daycare. We have an idea for someone, and she has stated she would be more than happy to move in with us once we have a place. The third thing is to talk with another friend of ours, who does daycare out of her home, and find out what we can work out with her for cost each month. As she's going to be breast-fed, and I will be supplying the milk, bottles, and diapers, I am hoping we can work out something there...
I'm still short-tempered about most things, especially the repeated stupidity of one of my co-workers (who, inexplicably, was pointed out by a lead as the "best" operator on the floor during evenings to one of the new gals) and by some of the people who are calling in, but I have a feeling that this too shall pass. I hope. Otherwise, I may just have to start a low-impact kick-boxing routine (once my physical therapist ok's it) in order to beat my frustrations out. It's either that or I'll be out of a job for beating my frustrations out on the co-worker; while satisfying, it would not bode well for me.
So, that's my plan so far. Rikki got us signed up under her new job at LA Fitness, for less money per month than the "employee discount" rate at the gym and spa my work has. It's easy to get to, has a salt-water pool and jaccuzi, all the cardio equipment you could possibly want, free weights, and classes that are included in the price of the monthly fee. There's also day-care on-site, too. After I get my physical therapy stuff taken care of, and am cleared for mild exersize, I'm so heading over there and plopping myself into the pool. Just a mild swim should do wonders for my back. Ah, weightlessness, how I love thee...
~M
First of all, an old friend of mine is on her way to Bend to visit some friends. While there, she's offered to come up and help me get some of the house together (caulking, planting, and doing the windows). So, there are three major things I don't have to worry about at this point.
Also, I woke up this morning with a better idea on how to make it through the weeks that I'll be out of work, and (hopefully) make sure that I can pay bills and such while sitting on my proverbial butt getting to know Elizabeth. One of the (a-hem) nice things about having a student loan is that occasionally you can place them on a hiatus. So, I will do so in December, and talk with them to have it go through March. I will then put aside that money ($310 per month) into the household checking account, and that should cover all the bills and rent necessary to be taken care of until I'm back at work.
Also, tax time will help out as well, since we file online normally, and can usually get everything within 3-4 weeks of filing - which means by mid-March, we'll have a fairly nice check coming through which will also help out with bills.
I've decided not to worry about the holidays. They will come whether I worry or not, and worry will only make it more stressful and upsetting. Rather, I will focus on doing nifty small projects for all of my friends as gifties, which will (hopefully) keep my hands filled on the bus to and from work, and even some at work, if they have no projects for me to do.
Speaking of work, as of the 26th, I will be on permanent days, from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. This means two things: Fred and I will *finally* be able to have days off together, and as of Elizabeth's birth, both of us will need to be fighting with the State of Oregon about the child support Fred is paying, so we can pay for adequate daycare for Elizabeth. I had considered going with Kinder Care, but they want over $600 per month to take care of her for two or three days a week, which we simply cannot afford right now or in the near future - and that's with my work discount.
SO - we are hopeful to do three things with the upcoming situation... Get a 3-bedroom on the first floor of our apartment complex (it's an extra $50 a month, but that covers water usage for a washer/dryer), and get someone reliable and trustworthy to move into the 3rd bedroom as a roommate to help defer costs so we have a bit more for daycare. We have an idea for someone, and she has stated she would be more than happy to move in with us once we have a place. The third thing is to talk with another friend of ours, who does daycare out of her home, and find out what we can work out with her for cost each month. As she's going to be breast-fed, and I will be supplying the milk, bottles, and diapers, I am hoping we can work out something there...
I'm still short-tempered about most things, especially the repeated stupidity of one of my co-workers (who, inexplicably, was pointed out by a lead as the "best" operator on the floor during evenings to one of the new gals) and by some of the people who are calling in, but I have a feeling that this too shall pass. I hope. Otherwise, I may just have to start a low-impact kick-boxing routine (once my physical therapist ok's it) in order to beat my frustrations out. It's either that or I'll be out of a job for beating my frustrations out on the co-worker; while satisfying, it would not bode well for me.
So, that's my plan so far. Rikki got us signed up under her new job at LA Fitness, for less money per month than the "employee discount" rate at the gym and spa my work has. It's easy to get to, has a salt-water pool and jaccuzi, all the cardio equipment you could possibly want, free weights, and classes that are included in the price of the monthly fee. There's also day-care on-site, too. After I get my physical therapy stuff taken care of, and am cleared for mild exersize, I'm so heading over there and plopping myself into the pool. Just a mild swim should do wonders for my back. Ah, weightlessness, how I love thee...
~M
Friday, November 09, 2007
Failing to launch...
I guess I’m going to just chalk it up to the baby blahs… It’s possible that the weather has something to do with it, too, but this whole “downer” feeling started before the bad weather hit here.
It seems to be all I can physically and mentally do just to get out of bed right now. All I honestly *want* to do is lay down and cry about absolutely nothing at all. I have no idea why, and can’t give a specific reason, but that’s what I want to do.
I don’t feel good about myself – not about how I look, or what I’m doing around the house (or lack thereof , what with my back being buggered up lately), or even how I’m feeling about everything – which just makes for an insanely vicious cycle to fall downward into. Logically, I know that this is just a phase and I’m sure to bounce out of it sooner or later. I just feel so empty, though. Like there’s wind whistling through my soul and I can’t seem to find a warm spot for it to be in.
I am filled with doubts about my own ability to take care of Elizabeth, myself, Fred, the house in general. I can’t stop thinking that somehow, when Elizabeth arrives, I’m going to be so hopelessly backed up in chores and bills that I won’t be able to ever catch up again, and we’ll be booted out of the apartment because we won’t be able to afford it.
I doubt my own attractiveness – and while most would say “well, of course, that’s to be expected”, it’s not something that *I* expected. I can’t say that I’m surprised too much about it, considering my changing shape (though not weight), and the lack of energy for anything… But it still is something I am now dealing with along with everything else.
I feel like a failure because I can’t do everything that is needed to be done at home – and I don’t feel comfortable asking for help because everyone I know works so hard – I don’t want to bother them. I am normally so self-sufficient, and the further along I get in the pregnancy, the harder it is for me to do everyday stuff – and the harder it is to admit that I can’t do them.
I have so much to do, and I just can’t find the energy to do any of it. I need to have the bathtub re-caulked, the baby room and dining room windows need cleaned and sealed off for the winter, all of my plants need re-potted, and I have a planter for the crocus memorial for Shady, but haven’t gotten around to doing that, either.
I’m dreading the holidays because I am already so stressed out and frazzled with everything I’m not doing (or not able to do), and everything that isn’t happening (or isn’t being made to happen) – I can’t imagine going through with everything. Work is a pseudo-haven for me, if only because it’s mostly brainless and I don’t have to think… It’s a double-edged sword, though, since because it’s mostly brainless, I find myself starting to stress all over again about what is and isn’t happening, what I can and can’t do anymore, and how much of a failure I feel like.
I hate failure – and I hate feeling this way… I just don’t know how to fix it.
~M
It seems to be all I can physically and mentally do just to get out of bed right now. All I honestly *want* to do is lay down and cry about absolutely nothing at all. I have no idea why, and can’t give a specific reason, but that’s what I want to do.
I don’t feel good about myself – not about how I look, or what I’m doing around the house (or lack thereof , what with my back being buggered up lately), or even how I’m feeling about everything – which just makes for an insanely vicious cycle to fall downward into. Logically, I know that this is just a phase and I’m sure to bounce out of it sooner or later. I just feel so empty, though. Like there’s wind whistling through my soul and I can’t seem to find a warm spot for it to be in.
I am filled with doubts about my own ability to take care of Elizabeth, myself, Fred, the house in general. I can’t stop thinking that somehow, when Elizabeth arrives, I’m going to be so hopelessly backed up in chores and bills that I won’t be able to ever catch up again, and we’ll be booted out of the apartment because we won’t be able to afford it.
I doubt my own attractiveness – and while most would say “well, of course, that’s to be expected”, it’s not something that *I* expected. I can’t say that I’m surprised too much about it, considering my changing shape (though not weight), and the lack of energy for anything… But it still is something I am now dealing with along with everything else.
I feel like a failure because I can’t do everything that is needed to be done at home – and I don’t feel comfortable asking for help because everyone I know works so hard – I don’t want to bother them. I am normally so self-sufficient, and the further along I get in the pregnancy, the harder it is for me to do everyday stuff – and the harder it is to admit that I can’t do them.
I have so much to do, and I just can’t find the energy to do any of it. I need to have the bathtub re-caulked, the baby room and dining room windows need cleaned and sealed off for the winter, all of my plants need re-potted, and I have a planter for the crocus memorial for Shady, but haven’t gotten around to doing that, either.
I’m dreading the holidays because I am already so stressed out and frazzled with everything I’m not doing (or not able to do), and everything that isn’t happening (or isn’t being made to happen) – I can’t imagine going through with everything. Work is a pseudo-haven for me, if only because it’s mostly brainless and I don’t have to think… It’s a double-edged sword, though, since because it’s mostly brainless, I find myself starting to stress all over again about what is and isn’t happening, what I can and can’t do anymore, and how much of a failure I feel like.
I hate failure – and I hate feeling this way… I just don’t know how to fix it.
~M
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Recouping...
So, in the aftermath of sorting everything out from the baby shower, I'm finding it easier to come up with the list of things that we don't have - it's shorter. LOL.
*Diaper pail
*bottles (preferably the ones with the pouches, or the ones that are bent)
*bottle sterilizer
*bottle warmer
*large diaper pins (fabu for keeping little booties together in the wash)
*diaper bag (or fabric to make such)
*boppy pillow (or fabric and stuffing to make such)
I'd still like to get a play-mat, but that can wait until after Elizabeth is born, so there's no major hurry on it.
In other news, while I got the chair I needed to work up at the hot site, I have been restricted to no more than 5 lbs lifting due to the back strains that I've gotten - and also no major stretching or bending. I've been referred to physical therapy, but will have to wait until next week for them to schedule an appointment for me (if the insurance covers it). Meanwhile, I'm taking lots of hot baths, sitting up straight, and attempting to gently stretch everything without straining it further. The up-shot, I don't have to carry a lot of pretty much anything. The down-shot, this means that Fred will be doing a lot more, poor thing.
Speaking of, Fred has been a total rock for me, and I am so lucky to have him. I let him know the restrictions and he was fine with them. He has apparently had visions of me doing something to cause premature labor and having the baby pop out then pop back in again... The visual is amusing, but I can understand his concern.
So, tonight I get a nice hot bath, and then possibly some lotion, and then snuggles from both Fred and Jazzy. Jazzy has decided that I'm just the most wonderful human in the world. This morning she got a lonesome attack and got up on the bed to snuggle with me at 3:30 in the morning (something she normally never does). She still shies away from Fred (probably something to do with men in general and her past), but is getting used to him. In about a month or so, she should be mostly adjusted to the house and sounds going around in and next door to it.
Other than that, nothing much going on - just work and home stuff, as usual.
~M
*Diaper pail
*bottles (preferably the ones with the pouches, or the ones that are bent)
*bottle sterilizer
*bottle warmer
*large diaper pins (fabu for keeping little booties together in the wash)
*diaper bag (or fabric to make such)
*boppy pillow (or fabric and stuffing to make such)
I'd still like to get a play-mat, but that can wait until after Elizabeth is born, so there's no major hurry on it.
In other news, while I got the chair I needed to work up at the hot site, I have been restricted to no more than 5 lbs lifting due to the back strains that I've gotten - and also no major stretching or bending. I've been referred to physical therapy, but will have to wait until next week for them to schedule an appointment for me (if the insurance covers it). Meanwhile, I'm taking lots of hot baths, sitting up straight, and attempting to gently stretch everything without straining it further. The up-shot, I don't have to carry a lot of pretty much anything. The down-shot, this means that Fred will be doing a lot more, poor thing.
Speaking of, Fred has been a total rock for me, and I am so lucky to have him. I let him know the restrictions and he was fine with them. He has apparently had visions of me doing something to cause premature labor and having the baby pop out then pop back in again... The visual is amusing, but I can understand his concern.
So, tonight I get a nice hot bath, and then possibly some lotion, and then snuggles from both Fred and Jazzy. Jazzy has decided that I'm just the most wonderful human in the world. This morning she got a lonesome attack and got up on the bed to snuggle with me at 3:30 in the morning (something she normally never does). She still shies away from Fred (probably something to do with men in general and her past), but is getting used to him. In about a month or so, she should be mostly adjusted to the house and sounds going around in and next door to it.
Other than that, nothing much going on - just work and home stuff, as usual.
~M
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Whoof!
Well, the baby shower and visit with Mom is over with. I ran around so much and did so much walking that my calves hurt now. *chuckle*
Mom arrived Thursday night, and we had a nice time cooking and eating in. Then we woke up fairly early Friday and dragged Fred around with us while we headed to the bank, then to the other bank, then over to Lowe's, then to Si Senor to have lunch, and then Winco - and THEN back home. Afterwards, we put away groceries and relaxed until dinner, which was 3 bean chili and quesadillas.
Saturday we woke up early again and headed over to Powell's while Fred did laundry. On the way over we dropped off the sewing machine at my work to my co-worker, Christina, who has been patiently waiting for it to arrive.
Powell's is evil, and I should *NEVER* be allowed in there with *ANY* sort of money at all - it will be gone! I got 3 new books for our Terry Pratchett series collection, and I picked up a little something for Fred for his stocking, and a little something for Lyse for *her* stocking. We then headed back home and got some lunch, and waited for everyone to get ready for the baby shower.
The baby shower was a great time. I got to see Ang' and Slasher, who brought their little one with them (the elder was with other family that day), and Courtney and Ace came with Courtney's parents, Gail & Steve. The Hippie Hamster of Doom dropped by, and of course, the gal who put it all together, Raistlin, was there, too. I got to briefly say hello to Dark Winged Fae, before she had to hie off to a book signing with a friend, and I also had a friend from work come by as well.
The snackies were good, the company fabu, and the kid made out like a bandit. I will have a full list probably tomorrow, along with thank you's to everyone - I need to have time to go through everything and label who gave what, so I can get out the thank you cards to them as quickly as I can (while I still have a brain that functions).
After the shower, Mom and I dropped Fred off home to do some things, then headed over to Babies R' Us for some further shopping excitement. We got a lifetime crib (goes from crib, to toddler bed, to full-size), a mattress for it, a car seat that, according to the box, should fit the baby until she's at least 4, and some sheets and a mattress pad for it. We also got a 5 year baby book, which is adorable. We looked at some rockers, and Mom is going to see whether she still has her old one to hand over to me for a bit.
We had dinner at the Mandarin Palace, then did a bit of karaoke and I wimped out early. Fred and Mom didn't actually get to bed until around 1 am or so, as they were chatting about music and things. This morning we headed back out to Babies R' Us to pick up the crib. I now know that Fred is not to be allowed in the baby toy aisle - though sometimes it is amusing... We went ga-ga over a few "girlie" outfits, and then hooked up the crib to the top of the Pathfinder and headed back to the apartment, where Raistlin met us and helped get the darned thing up the stairs.
It's been a weekend... I'm wondering when I get to have a nap. LOL. I am only hoping at this point I will be able to get through tonight, and tomorrow I will give myself a nice, long, indulgent hot bath after I do my chores.
~M
Mom arrived Thursday night, and we had a nice time cooking and eating in. Then we woke up fairly early Friday and dragged Fred around with us while we headed to the bank, then to the other bank, then over to Lowe's, then to Si Senor to have lunch, and then Winco - and THEN back home. Afterwards, we put away groceries and relaxed until dinner, which was 3 bean chili and quesadillas.
Saturday we woke up early again and headed over to Powell's while Fred did laundry. On the way over we dropped off the sewing machine at my work to my co-worker, Christina, who has been patiently waiting for it to arrive.
Powell's is evil, and I should *NEVER* be allowed in there with *ANY* sort of money at all - it will be gone! I got 3 new books for our Terry Pratchett series collection, and I picked up a little something for Fred for his stocking, and a little something for Lyse for *her* stocking. We then headed back home and got some lunch, and waited for everyone to get ready for the baby shower.
The baby shower was a great time. I got to see Ang' and Slasher, who brought their little one with them (the elder was with other family that day), and Courtney and Ace came with Courtney's parents, Gail & Steve. The Hippie Hamster of Doom dropped by, and of course, the gal who put it all together, Raistlin, was there, too. I got to briefly say hello to Dark Winged Fae, before she had to hie off to a book signing with a friend, and I also had a friend from work come by as well.
The snackies were good, the company fabu, and the kid made out like a bandit. I will have a full list probably tomorrow, along with thank you's to everyone - I need to have time to go through everything and label who gave what, so I can get out the thank you cards to them as quickly as I can (while I still have a brain that functions).
After the shower, Mom and I dropped Fred off home to do some things, then headed over to Babies R' Us for some further shopping excitement. We got a lifetime crib (goes from crib, to toddler bed, to full-size), a mattress for it, a car seat that, according to the box, should fit the baby until she's at least 4, and some sheets and a mattress pad for it. We also got a 5 year baby book, which is adorable. We looked at some rockers, and Mom is going to see whether she still has her old one to hand over to me for a bit.
We had dinner at the Mandarin Palace, then did a bit of karaoke and I wimped out early. Fred and Mom didn't actually get to bed until around 1 am or so, as they were chatting about music and things. This morning we headed back out to Babies R' Us to pick up the crib. I now know that Fred is not to be allowed in the baby toy aisle - though sometimes it is amusing... We went ga-ga over a few "girlie" outfits, and then hooked up the crib to the top of the Pathfinder and headed back to the apartment, where Raistlin met us and helped get the darned thing up the stairs.
It's been a weekend... I'm wondering when I get to have a nap. LOL. I am only hoping at this point I will be able to get through tonight, and tomorrow I will give myself a nice, long, indulgent hot bath after I do my chores.
~M
Friday, October 26, 2007
General Flotsom from work...
I have come to the conclusion that Hot Pockets are not food… In fact, they are less than not food, if only because at least the not food of Totino’s Pizza rolls or Totino’s $0.99 pizzas taste good. These do not taste so good – also, they look NOTHING like the pic on the box – false advertising, damn it.
Why am I eating them, then? It was the lesser of the two evils (though I’m still wondering on that one, too). It was either hot dogs from 7-11, or Hot Pockets… I chose something which was frozen, and made by someone other than 7-11. I should have simply brought a slice of leftover lasagna with me for dinner. I think I will do that tomorrow.
Today was my dental appointment. The dentist simply did a “welcome” visit with me, looking over my teeth and generally commenting on the state of things. Apparently, my teeth are in really good shape, considering I haven’t had a cleaning since I was 18. I have apparently one small visible cavity, which they’re mildly concerned about, and then I need a cleaning (duh). So, I have an appointment in December for a cleaning, and then in January for the cavity. And after that, we will wait for Elizabeth to be born and then set up for x-rays to find out if anything else is amiss.
I’d say I was underwhelmed with one of my co-workers, but that would be implying that at one point I was even whelmed. I guess I’m just getting old and tired of office drama B.S. I don’t feel like listening to how many times someone got drunk, or threw up, or did whatever, or flirted, or got busy… I just don’t care. I especially don’t want to hear about it while I’m trying to take calls, and can’t hear anyone on my line because of how loud the talking of inconsequential stuff is getting. I also don’t like being the only one taking calls because one of the said drama-llamas has decided that they’re going to sit in an aux code forever because they don’t want to take calls. However, I hear through the grape vine that, since I brought it up to the trainer, she’s going to be keeping a very close eye on this person – and as this person has been called on the carpet before for the same crap, it will eventually cause something to happen. We’ll see.
Elizabeth is being especially active lately. We’ve taken to playing games. She’s been kicking like crazy, and has gotten good (and strong) enough to actually move my hand when she kicks. So, when she does, I poke back just where she kicked. Normally this is followed by yet another kick, which is followed by me poking back again. And so forth. She apparently finds this to be a really fun game, because if I don’t follow through with the poking, she kicks several times in a row. I believe we’re going to have a very active child.
So far, we’ve received a lovely night light from an old friend of my in SF, and a baby bath and onesies from a friend of ours in New Jersey, a huge amount of clothing from our friend in SE PDX, and just today an infant to toddler feeding chair from my aunt in CA. We’re slowly getting everything together as we get a little closer to the event. I’m needing to seriously sit down and do sewing for the baby’s room, and get the windows sealed for the winter… So much to do, and I just get so tired lately. *sigh*
~M
Why am I eating them, then? It was the lesser of the two evils (though I’m still wondering on that one, too). It was either hot dogs from 7-11, or Hot Pockets… I chose something which was frozen, and made by someone other than 7-11. I should have simply brought a slice of leftover lasagna with me for dinner. I think I will do that tomorrow.
Today was my dental appointment. The dentist simply did a “welcome” visit with me, looking over my teeth and generally commenting on the state of things. Apparently, my teeth are in really good shape, considering I haven’t had a cleaning since I was 18. I have apparently one small visible cavity, which they’re mildly concerned about, and then I need a cleaning (duh). So, I have an appointment in December for a cleaning, and then in January for the cavity. And after that, we will wait for Elizabeth to be born and then set up for x-rays to find out if anything else is amiss.
I’d say I was underwhelmed with one of my co-workers, but that would be implying that at one point I was even whelmed. I guess I’m just getting old and tired of office drama B.S. I don’t feel like listening to how many times someone got drunk, or threw up, or did whatever, or flirted, or got busy… I just don’t care. I especially don’t want to hear about it while I’m trying to take calls, and can’t hear anyone on my line because of how loud the talking of inconsequential stuff is getting. I also don’t like being the only one taking calls because one of the said drama-llamas has decided that they’re going to sit in an aux code forever because they don’t want to take calls. However, I hear through the grape vine that, since I brought it up to the trainer, she’s going to be keeping a very close eye on this person – and as this person has been called on the carpet before for the same crap, it will eventually cause something to happen. We’ll see.
Elizabeth is being especially active lately. We’ve taken to playing games. She’s been kicking like crazy, and has gotten good (and strong) enough to actually move my hand when she kicks. So, when she does, I poke back just where she kicked. Normally this is followed by yet another kick, which is followed by me poking back again. And so forth. She apparently finds this to be a really fun game, because if I don’t follow through with the poking, she kicks several times in a row. I believe we’re going to have a very active child.
So far, we’ve received a lovely night light from an old friend of my in SF, and a baby bath and onesies from a friend of ours in New Jersey, a huge amount of clothing from our friend in SE PDX, and just today an infant to toddler feeding chair from my aunt in CA. We’re slowly getting everything together as we get a little closer to the event. I’m needing to seriously sit down and do sewing for the baby’s room, and get the windows sealed for the winter… So much to do, and I just get so tired lately. *sigh*
~M
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Zombie Apocalypse...
Considering the full moon this morning, I should have known that my day was going to be filled, *filled* I say, with the drooling morons of America - or at least those of the local PacNW.
So far today, I've had someone call in and get sarcastic with me when I asked if she wanted a clinic (I was clarifying, folks - it's what you do for good customer service - deal!), at least 15 people repeat themselves 3-4 times before getting it through their head that they still need to provide me with a patient's name prior to me transferring them up to the nurse's station, and I then was *a-hem* blessed with doing confirmation calls (honestly, those wouldn't be so bad, except that after about an hour, my voice tends to get monotone from repeating the same thing, and I'm desperate to keep awake).
I'm so looking forward to getting home and taking a nap with the cat.
~M
So far today, I've had someone call in and get sarcastic with me when I asked if she wanted a clinic (I was clarifying, folks - it's what you do for good customer service - deal!), at least 15 people repeat themselves 3-4 times before getting it through their head that they still need to provide me with a patient's name prior to me transferring them up to the nurse's station, and I then was *a-hem* blessed with doing confirmation calls (honestly, those wouldn't be so bad, except that after about an hour, my voice tends to get monotone from repeating the same thing, and I'm desperate to keep awake).
I'm so looking forward to getting home and taking a nap with the cat.
~M
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Feeling better...
I am definitely feeling better from last night. I can only say that it must have been total fatigue from walking so much and being up so early with very little sleep the night before. The heaviness and overall feeling of being pulled down and forward is no longer there, and I don't have the muscle spasms that I was having.
So - new lesson learned: Don't wake up early and then go "hiking" for a mile... BAD for me.
Jazzy, also, is feeling better. She got *lots* and *lots* of lap loves today, first from me, then from Fred, and then from our friend, the Hippie Hamster of Doom, who is visiting for a few days. Though she's still suffering from an upper respiratory infection, she is doing much better than before. She's not sneezing overly much, and her eyes are wide and bright with curiosity and interest, rather than with trepidation.
This is her snuggling up to the Hippie Hamster of Doom. At this point, she comfy enough to be off the lap completely, and is starting to simply be one with the couch.
Apparently, afterwards, she decided that she wanted to explore a bit, and found the pillow and blanket stash behind the couch. She happily ensconsed herself there, being comfortable enough to have everyone still see her, but feel protected with all the walls around her.
According to Fred, she's still so happy that she purrs when you talk to her, which is adorable. She's not eating much (if at all), and we both think it's due to the Clavamox, which is probably causing a bit of tummy discomfort - not to mention that her head-cold is probably stuffing up her nose enough to not be abe to smell the food at all, which would make it difficult to taste anything. Poor baby.
We have an appointment with the vet tomorrow to have Jazzy checked over. If she hasn't eaten anything or used the box by then, I'll bring it up to them and see what they say. I don't want her be overly stressed by being sick and not eating or drinking anything. It's not good for her at all, and I want to make sure that she's ok.
The only unfortunate part about tomorrow's vet visit is that we will have to brave 3 busses there, and 3 busses back, the poor baby. She's just gotten to a point of being comfy, and now I have to box her back up and head out again. *chuckle* Hopefully she will forgive me, though.
~M
So - new lesson learned: Don't wake up early and then go "hiking" for a mile... BAD for me.
Jazzy, also, is feeling better. She got *lots* and *lots* of lap loves today, first from me, then from Fred, and then from our friend, the Hippie Hamster of Doom, who is visiting for a few days. Though she's still suffering from an upper respiratory infection, she is doing much better than before. She's not sneezing overly much, and her eyes are wide and bright with curiosity and interest, rather than with trepidation.
This is her snuggling up to the Hippie Hamster of Doom. At this point, she comfy enough to be off the lap completely, and is starting to simply be one with the couch.
Apparently, afterwards, she decided that she wanted to explore a bit, and found the pillow and blanket stash behind the couch. She happily ensconsed herself there, being comfortable enough to have everyone still see her, but feel protected with all the walls around her.
According to Fred, she's still so happy that she purrs when you talk to her, which is adorable. She's not eating much (if at all), and we both think it's due to the Clavamox, which is probably causing a bit of tummy discomfort - not to mention that her head-cold is probably stuffing up her nose enough to not be abe to smell the food at all, which would make it difficult to taste anything. Poor baby.
We have an appointment with the vet tomorrow to have Jazzy checked over. If she hasn't eaten anything or used the box by then, I'll bring it up to them and see what they say. I don't want her be overly stressed by being sick and not eating or drinking anything. It's not good for her at all, and I want to make sure that she's ok.
The only unfortunate part about tomorrow's vet visit is that we will have to brave 3 busses there, and 3 busses back, the poor baby. She's just gotten to a point of being comfy, and now I have to box her back up and head out again. *chuckle* Hopefully she will forgive me, though.
~M
Saturday, October 20, 2007
No karaoke for me...
I have officially decided that there will be no karaoke for me tonight. I'm just not up to it.
Currently, I'm feeling odd - physically (the mental oddity continues, as usual). My main concern is that it feels as though someone has tied two ropes to my insides: one is pulling my lower abdomen forward, and the other is pulling my cervix down. My abdominal muscles have been twitchy and achy all day as well...
So - I'm going to go home and relax, and hope that it's just fatigue. I don't want to have to go in or be poked or prodded unless I really *need* to. If it's just fatigue (which honestly, after walking a good mile today, possibly a bit more), then it can be easily solved by laying down at home and sleeping well. If it's NOT, then the laying down can't *hurt*, and I can deal with a phone call to the doctor on call in the comfort of my own home.
In any case, I'm going to try and NOT fall asleep for the last 1.5 hrs of my shift... whoot...
~M
Currently, I'm feeling odd - physically (the mental oddity continues, as usual). My main concern is that it feels as though someone has tied two ropes to my insides: one is pulling my lower abdomen forward, and the other is pulling my cervix down. My abdominal muscles have been twitchy and achy all day as well...
So - I'm going to go home and relax, and hope that it's just fatigue. I don't want to have to go in or be poked or prodded unless I really *need* to. If it's just fatigue (which honestly, after walking a good mile today, possibly a bit more), then it can be easily solved by laying down at home and sleeping well. If it's NOT, then the laying down can't *hurt*, and I can deal with a phone call to the doctor on call in the comfort of my own home.
In any case, I'm going to try and NOT fall asleep for the last 1.5 hrs of my shift... whoot...
~M
New baby!
We have a new baby. Her name is Jazzy, and she's a sweet little fuzzy tortoiseshell cat. I will have a few pics of her up in a few days, once she's feeling better and more calm.
Apparently, her most recent owners abandoned her when they moved away from the neighborhood. She'd been an outside cat for some time, and their neighbor, a kindly lady, fed her and tried to acclaimate her to a house to make her a bit more adoptable. Unfortunately, she couldn't keep poor Jazzy, as she already had one cat who was not interested in sharing the home. So, she brought Jazzy to the Oregon Humane Society.
Jazzy was brought into the little room to meet us, and she immediately snuggled up next to my thigh. Neither Fred nor I moved, but we talked softly to her and gently petted her. The next thing we knew, she'd crawled over and into Fred's lap, deciding that he smelled good. He snuggled with her for a while, and then put her onto the bench. We decided that, as we had no idea how she would react, we would try a loud noise to see how she reacted. A loud clap sent her under the bench, but when Fred reached down to pet her again, she was open to it.
She came over to me, deciding that I was another interesting human who could be loving, and I got "elevator butt" almost immediately. She then moved over to my other foot and collapsed in a happy puddle as I got a hand onto her belly and rubbed it, purring up a storm. We knew right then that we'd been adopted, so we proceeded on with the adoption process.
A bag of cat food, some cans of same, and a small bag of tartar control treats, we headed back home, the proud owners of Jazzy. Fred dropped off downtown to head back home, since I would have gotten home just in time to turn right back around and head back to work.
Currently, Jazzy is ensconsed in our bathroom, a little shy but open to exploring. Apparently she loves the brush, and is getting used to being pampered by Fred. We aren't sure whether she's litter-box trained, but we figure we can fix that if it needs to be. She's on clavamox for a puncture wound on her hind left thigh (seems to be healing nicely), and she has a cold that has her sneezing with some discharge. However, she's Feline Leukemia and Feline HIV negative - both things which could have seriously set back her recovery. I'm quite certain she will quickly acclimate to her new home, and I *know* she's a welcome addition to our family.
~M
Apparently, her most recent owners abandoned her when they moved away from the neighborhood. She'd been an outside cat for some time, and their neighbor, a kindly lady, fed her and tried to acclaimate her to a house to make her a bit more adoptable. Unfortunately, she couldn't keep poor Jazzy, as she already had one cat who was not interested in sharing the home. So, she brought Jazzy to the Oregon Humane Society.
Jazzy was brought into the little room to meet us, and she immediately snuggled up next to my thigh. Neither Fred nor I moved, but we talked softly to her and gently petted her. The next thing we knew, she'd crawled over and into Fred's lap, deciding that he smelled good. He snuggled with her for a while, and then put her onto the bench. We decided that, as we had no idea how she would react, we would try a loud noise to see how she reacted. A loud clap sent her under the bench, but when Fred reached down to pet her again, she was open to it.
She came over to me, deciding that I was another interesting human who could be loving, and I got "elevator butt" almost immediately. She then moved over to my other foot and collapsed in a happy puddle as I got a hand onto her belly and rubbed it, purring up a storm. We knew right then that we'd been adopted, so we proceeded on with the adoption process.
A bag of cat food, some cans of same, and a small bag of tartar control treats, we headed back home, the proud owners of Jazzy. Fred dropped off downtown to head back home, since I would have gotten home just in time to turn right back around and head back to work.
Currently, Jazzy is ensconsed in our bathroom, a little shy but open to exploring. Apparently she loves the brush, and is getting used to being pampered by Fred. We aren't sure whether she's litter-box trained, but we figure we can fix that if it needs to be. She's on clavamox for a puncture wound on her hind left thigh (seems to be healing nicely), and she has a cold that has her sneezing with some discharge. However, she's Feline Leukemia and Feline HIV negative - both things which could have seriously set back her recovery. I'm quite certain she will quickly acclimate to her new home, and I *know* she's a welcome addition to our family.
~M
Friday, October 19, 2007
OMLA and FMLA woes...
So, I would be more upset about the whole thing if I didn't *know*, in the back of my head, that all of this information was posted somewhere publicly, for general consumption...
I'm talking, of course, about the Medical and Family Leave Act... Here in the Great NW, we have TWO to choose from, depending on whether you're 6 months into the job or 12 months into the job.
If you're only 6 months, you only qualify for the OMLA (that's the state one). If you're 12 months in the job, then you qualify for both the OMLA and the FMLA (that's the federal one). If you haven't yet reached your 6 months with the company, then you don't get diddly, regardless.
On the upshot, you get a set guaranteed amount of time off, based on need and situation - for instance, if you are having a baby, have reached your 6 months, and you've given sufficient notice to your company that you're going to be having a baby, you can have up to 12 weeks off under OMLA. You can also qualify for an additional 12 weeks off, if proven medically necessary by your doctor OR if a qualifying situation comes up within the next 9 months subsequent to the first 12 weeks. If you've hit the 12 month deal, then you are qualified for both OMLA and FMLA, which normally end up running concurrently (why, I don't know... I'd think it would be consecutive, but what do *I* know). Again, you can qualify for an additional 12 weeks for *either* of the programs, depending on the situation.
Now, here's the interesting part... You can have the time off, but you'll only get paid for it if you have the vacation and sick leave... During that period, you'll still have your normal coverage of health insurance, too. HOWEVER... Once you're out of sick and vacation leave, your health insurance stops as well, and you have to pay for COBRA during the rest of the time you're out, in order to have anything covered. You can apply for short-term disability, but you'll still have to pay for COBRA, as it's not "officially" earned money.
So - it looks as though I will not have the 12 weeks off that was originally planned. We just won't be able to afford it. I will try and get 3 weeks off, but then I'm going to have to go back to work, because there's no way I'll be able to get the money for everything AND for COBRA payments - and there's no way I'll have the vacation or sick time accrued to cover anything more than that. *sigh*
~M
I'm talking, of course, about the Medical and Family Leave Act... Here in the Great NW, we have TWO to choose from, depending on whether you're 6 months into the job or 12 months into the job.
If you're only 6 months, you only qualify for the OMLA (that's the state one). If you're 12 months in the job, then you qualify for both the OMLA and the FMLA (that's the federal one). If you haven't yet reached your 6 months with the company, then you don't get diddly, regardless.
On the upshot, you get a set guaranteed amount of time off, based on need and situation - for instance, if you are having a baby, have reached your 6 months, and you've given sufficient notice to your company that you're going to be having a baby, you can have up to 12 weeks off under OMLA. You can also qualify for an additional 12 weeks off, if proven medically necessary by your doctor OR if a qualifying situation comes up within the next 9 months subsequent to the first 12 weeks. If you've hit the 12 month deal, then you are qualified for both OMLA and FMLA, which normally end up running concurrently (why, I don't know... I'd think it would be consecutive, but what do *I* know). Again, you can qualify for an additional 12 weeks for *either* of the programs, depending on the situation.
Now, here's the interesting part... You can have the time off, but you'll only get paid for it if you have the vacation and sick leave... During that period, you'll still have your normal coverage of health insurance, too. HOWEVER... Once you're out of sick and vacation leave, your health insurance stops as well, and you have to pay for COBRA during the rest of the time you're out, in order to have anything covered. You can apply for short-term disability, but you'll still have to pay for COBRA, as it's not "officially" earned money.
So - it looks as though I will not have the 12 weeks off that was originally planned. We just won't be able to afford it. I will try and get 3 weeks off, but then I'm going to have to go back to work, because there's no way I'll be able to get the money for everything AND for COBRA payments - and there's no way I'll have the vacation or sick time accrued to cover anything more than that. *sigh*
~M
Is it Friday yet?
Well, technically, I suppose it is. But for me, it's only my Wednesday. Two more days at work after tonight, and then I'll get two days of pseudo-rest (we call it that, since I'll most likely be cleaning the house some more...).
I have found that setting aside one day a week for serious cleaning is actually doing something for the apartment. I'm feeling better about the overall look of the place, even though I know there's loads more to do. That's ok, because I know that I can do most of it.
Wrenched my back Monday, which meant that for the rest of this week, I've been off the heavier lifting. Fred helped me with laundry (I *adore him, have I mentioned that?), and I mostly sat around with a heat pack trying to stretch things out. It's mostly better, but I'm going to be more careful from this point forward, I think... I don't feel like being out of action for so long in between days off.
As I mentioned, the sewing machine came, and last night I sewed bunnies. Cute little stuffed baby bunnies. I love my sewing machine. I'm so glad that I hadn't splurged on it prior to getting a divorce from the ex, as I know he would have completely destroyed it in a matter of weeks. While it's fairly sturdy and has all metal gears (a major requirement for me), my old one had no electronics to it, and this one does. So, definitely something to be reading the manual about as I get down to some serious sewing.
Meanwhile, I'm looking for someone to take the old sewing machine off my hands. It needs a good cleaning and a tune-up, and some correct-sized bobbins, but other than that, it works great. I just really needed an upgrade to something that was going to be a little heftier. Which I got. So - if you'd like a free (yes, FREE) sewing machine, and you live in the area (you get to pick it up), let me know. I'll be glad to hand it over.
Got paid today, and even with the overdraft fees and the lack of 8 hours (the phone time-keeping system yet AGAIN let me down... Does this at least once a month - I almost think it's a conspiracy), I still have about $200 after paying all my bills. Granted, I paid half the rent to the household account (will be paying the other half on my next check, which should be a bit more uber), but still... Should be work-withable. Means that we should be able to get a new pet very soon... Need to see how Fred feels about heading to the Humane Society tomorrow morning EARLY.
~M
I have found that setting aside one day a week for serious cleaning is actually doing something for the apartment. I'm feeling better about the overall look of the place, even though I know there's loads more to do. That's ok, because I know that I can do most of it.
Wrenched my back Monday, which meant that for the rest of this week, I've been off the heavier lifting. Fred helped me with laundry (I *adore him, have I mentioned that?), and I mostly sat around with a heat pack trying to stretch things out. It's mostly better, but I'm going to be more careful from this point forward, I think... I don't feel like being out of action for so long in between days off.
As I mentioned, the sewing machine came, and last night I sewed bunnies. Cute little stuffed baby bunnies. I love my sewing machine. I'm so glad that I hadn't splurged on it prior to getting a divorce from the ex, as I know he would have completely destroyed it in a matter of weeks. While it's fairly sturdy and has all metal gears (a major requirement for me), my old one had no electronics to it, and this one does. So, definitely something to be reading the manual about as I get down to some serious sewing.
Meanwhile, I'm looking for someone to take the old sewing machine off my hands. It needs a good cleaning and a tune-up, and some correct-sized bobbins, but other than that, it works great. I just really needed an upgrade to something that was going to be a little heftier. Which I got. So - if you'd like a free (yes, FREE) sewing machine, and you live in the area (you get to pick it up), let me know. I'll be glad to hand it over.
Got paid today, and even with the overdraft fees and the lack of 8 hours (the phone time-keeping system yet AGAIN let me down... Does this at least once a month - I almost think it's a conspiracy), I still have about $200 after paying all my bills. Granted, I paid half the rent to the household account (will be paying the other half on my next check, which should be a bit more uber), but still... Should be work-withable. Means that we should be able to get a new pet very soon... Need to see how Fred feels about heading to the Humane Society tomorrow morning EARLY.
~M
Monday, October 15, 2007
It Hath Arrived!!
This morning started unhappily to the sound of my phone ringing. Apparently no one had told the poor scheduler at the perinatology clinic that I'd already been informed of my appointment tomorrow. *sigh*
I decided it was definitely time to wake up, as I'd gotten about 8 hours of sleep, and needed to get chores done for the day.
First order of business, getting the table padded and covered for my sewing. This was an interesting bit of fighting, as the press-board table was *just* tough enough to require me getting a hammer, and then refusing to accept the flat-topped push-pins that I was trying to get through both the fabric and it about 20% of the time.
Lots of grunting, swearing, general name-calling and squashing of the baby later, there was a knock at the door. I was afraid it was the downstairs neighbor, complaining about the noise.
Nope - it was the UPS guy, bringing me my new baby! Yay! My sewing machine has made it. So far, it has been really simple to set up, and easy to get set up. I may have to place a small flat cutting board just under it to make sure it sits flat on the padding of the table while it's still new, but it's here, and it's all mine. *rubs hands together* Now I am free to run rampant with the boxes of fabric that I have unearthed! Bwa ha ha ha ha!!!!! (insert Terry Pratchett quote here "Five exclaimation points? I mean, really - a sure sign of someone who wears his underpants on his head".)
Now I need to get the rest of the room set up and going. I really need to get the person over here that's going to be taking my elizabethan dresses out of my way, as well as a box of scrap fabric and the bag of boys garb. I also need to get the toys that Speedboy no longer plays with over to Goodwill asap, so I'm no longer tripping on it.
Also, now that I have hanging files and a filing cabinet, I need to go through the house and collect all the random paperwork that I have been filing a la Vimes (He had a clean desk - this was because he piled everything on the floor next to the walls) and get them into a semblance of order. I am predicting in a month or so, I shall be organized - be afraid, be VERY afraid...
Today will be a fairly laid back day - I have two things off my list of chores done, already (the table and putting away the rest of the sewing machines/iron). I need to do laundry (again), clean the front room, take out the garbage in the back room, and bring all the paperwork I can find into the office...
Tomorrow is going to start out EARLY! I have a 9am ultrasound appointment, then I will go home and make hanging files, sort some of the paperwork, and make stuffed baby bunnies (I will show pics of what on EARTH I'm talking about once the first one is done).
Yet another nice realization of having a padded table to sew on: It's wide enough to do pattern cutting on, without being on the floor anymore. NO MORE HURTING KNEES OR BACK!!! Lil - if you're suddenly in the mood to sew, let me know and bring over your stuff - I'll be glad to let you borrow this luscious decadence. Tee Hee!
Oh, and speaking of the luscious Lilith, after talking with her recently, I've figured out what to get Lyse for Christmas. I think she will really enjoy it.
~M
I decided it was definitely time to wake up, as I'd gotten about 8 hours of sleep, and needed to get chores done for the day.
First order of business, getting the table padded and covered for my sewing. This was an interesting bit of fighting, as the press-board table was *just* tough enough to require me getting a hammer, and then refusing to accept the flat-topped push-pins that I was trying to get through both the fabric and it about 20% of the time.
Lots of grunting, swearing, general name-calling and squashing of the baby later, there was a knock at the door. I was afraid it was the downstairs neighbor, complaining about the noise.
Nope - it was the UPS guy, bringing me my new baby! Yay! My sewing machine has made it. So far, it has been really simple to set up, and easy to get set up. I may have to place a small flat cutting board just under it to make sure it sits flat on the padding of the table while it's still new, but it's here, and it's all mine. *rubs hands together* Now I am free to run rampant with the boxes of fabric that I have unearthed! Bwa ha ha ha ha!!!!! (insert Terry Pratchett quote here "Five exclaimation points? I mean, really - a sure sign of someone who wears his underpants on his head".)
Now I need to get the rest of the room set up and going. I really need to get the person over here that's going to be taking my elizabethan dresses out of my way, as well as a box of scrap fabric and the bag of boys garb. I also need to get the toys that Speedboy no longer plays with over to Goodwill asap, so I'm no longer tripping on it.
Also, now that I have hanging files and a filing cabinet, I need to go through the house and collect all the random paperwork that I have been filing a la Vimes (He had a clean desk - this was because he piled everything on the floor next to the walls) and get them into a semblance of order. I am predicting in a month or so, I shall be organized - be afraid, be VERY afraid...
Today will be a fairly laid back day - I have two things off my list of chores done, already (the table and putting away the rest of the sewing machines/iron). I need to do laundry (again), clean the front room, take out the garbage in the back room, and bring all the paperwork I can find into the office...
Tomorrow is going to start out EARLY! I have a 9am ultrasound appointment, then I will go home and make hanging files, sort some of the paperwork, and make stuffed baby bunnies (I will show pics of what on EARTH I'm talking about once the first one is done).
Yet another nice realization of having a padded table to sew on: It's wide enough to do pattern cutting on, without being on the floor anymore. NO MORE HURTING KNEES OR BACK!!! Lil - if you're suddenly in the mood to sew, let me know and bring over your stuff - I'll be glad to let you borrow this luscious decadence. Tee Hee!
Oh, and speaking of the luscious Lilith, after talking with her recently, I've figured out what to get Lyse for Christmas. I think she will really enjoy it.
~M
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Hey buddy, can ya s'paradigm?
I couldn't resist that particular pun... It was a fairly popular one in the late 70's sci-fi fan circle...
True, however, I am looking to drum up a bit of donation money to help get us a new cat. We have found two possible babies at the local Oregon Humane Society. I am leaning more toward one than the other, but that's mostly because of the strange idea that some people don't like being dictated to about where to keep their pet. Tusker is a declawed baby who needs to be an indoor-only pet, and an only cat. This, for us, is not an issue. Any pet we have is going to be indoor-only, so there isn't a question of that - also, we can only have 1 cat, so again, not an issue. The fact that the poor baby had been declawed is just another reason to reign down tons of love onto her. Cookie is the other baby we are looking at. She would be more of a challange, from what I understand - if only because she would be quite skittish with loud noises and new people. I'm certain we could, eventually, train her and calm her out of that, but it will take lots of love and affection, as well as patience.
Either way, the adoption cost, which includes (per their website) "a certificate for a free health examination by a participating vet, first vaccines (cats and dogs), spay/neuter surgery, a 24PetWatch microchip, ID tag, collar, leash (for dogs), and an informational booklet. Adopters also receive one month of pet health care insurance. Cats, rabbits, and pocket pets (rodents) also include a carrier to safely transport your pet home.", is $55 for either of them.
If you would like to help us gain a new member of our family (before our newest member actually makes an appearance outside my belly), please let me know.
~M
True, however, I am looking to drum up a bit of donation money to help get us a new cat. We have found two possible babies at the local Oregon Humane Society. I am leaning more toward one than the other, but that's mostly because of the strange idea that some people don't like being dictated to about where to keep their pet. Tusker is a declawed baby who needs to be an indoor-only pet, and an only cat. This, for us, is not an issue. Any pet we have is going to be indoor-only, so there isn't a question of that - also, we can only have 1 cat, so again, not an issue. The fact that the poor baby had been declawed is just another reason to reign down tons of love onto her. Cookie is the other baby we are looking at. She would be more of a challange, from what I understand - if only because she would be quite skittish with loud noises and new people. I'm certain we could, eventually, train her and calm her out of that, but it will take lots of love and affection, as well as patience.
Either way, the adoption cost, which includes (per their website) "a certificate for a free health examination by a participating vet, first vaccines (cats and dogs), spay/neuter surgery, a 24PetWatch microchip, ID tag, collar, leash (for dogs), and an informational booklet. Adopters also receive one month of pet health care insurance. Cats, rabbits, and pocket pets (rodents) also include a carrier to safely transport your pet home.", is $55 for either of them.
If you would like to help us gain a new member of our family (before our newest member actually makes an appearance outside my belly), please let me know.
~M
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Another One Bites The Dust!
I finished the blanket for my co-worker's new grandbaby. It's a "Mama & Baby Snuggle" blankie, which means that both mom and baby can fit into it at the same time. Really nice during cold winter and early spring mornings (which we are known for having here), and can be used later as a toddler blanket, then lap blanket as baby grows older.
Most of the blanket - my phone just doesn't get that wide - tee hee... It's about 5' long by 3.5 or 4' wide, and really snuggly.
Here's a close-up of the stitch, as well as the border I did. I'm actually very proud of this, as this is the first time I've worked a border on a piece. I like it a lot, and will have to remember to do that in the future, as I like the look of it.
And this is what happens when my hobby gets the better of me. I'm thinking I will keep going with these, and possibly offer them to sell at work.
I'm going to be working on some other stuff in the meantime - a few little baby bunny stuffed animals. I will be taking pics of those as well. I need to get more gingham in order to make more of them - currently I only have two pieces of fabric, a plain soft blue, and a tan printed fabric with darker tan kitty footprints on it.
~M
Most of the blanket - my phone just doesn't get that wide - tee hee... It's about 5' long by 3.5 or 4' wide, and really snuggly.
Here's a close-up of the stitch, as well as the border I did. I'm actually very proud of this, as this is the first time I've worked a border on a piece. I like it a lot, and will have to remember to do that in the future, as I like the look of it.
And this is what happens when my hobby gets the better of me. I'm thinking I will keep going with these, and possibly offer them to sell at work.
I'm going to be working on some other stuff in the meantime - a few little baby bunny stuffed animals. I will be taking pics of those as well. I need to get more gingham in order to make more of them - currently I only have two pieces of fabric, a plain soft blue, and a tan printed fabric with darker tan kitty footprints on it.
~M
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Oh sigh...
So, I just barely get over one cold, and another one hits me... I really wish people at work would not think "Gee, I'm not throwing up, so I must not be sick anymore - never mind that I still have a high fever." Stupid people.
I took Sunday off so I could again be sick at home and hopefully recover faster. I seem to be, but it's still kind of iffy.
Tuesday was the ultrasound appointment - you know, the one that I had to make because Elizabeth wasn't cooperating and kept moving around... Yeah, that one...
Well, I got there and immediately got under the belly probe - and wouldn't you know it - the little turtle decided not to wake up... AT ALL! She had wedged herself into my pelvic bone, with little feet propped into my cervix, and her head into my hip joint on the right side. She wouldn't move at all, and the radiology tech (same one as last time) and I just looked at one another and laughed.
I ended up being turned almost completely upside down to try and roll her out, since jiggling my belly vigerously wouldn't work. She finally did roll out of the hip, but she kept her feet tucked into my cervix, the little impling.
We spent another hour and 20 minutes or so trying to get her to roll over and move into the best positions to get photos... All we got was her looking vaguely annoyed, and moving one hand, then rolling over and ignoring us.
At one point, in order to get a clear picture of the feet, they had to do a vag ultrasound. She has long toes, I'll say that much. And we got a good look of her folding herself in half, her little knees pressed up to her nose. Long legs, too, from the look of her - not going to take much after me, bone-wise.
We went back for another round of abdominal scans, but still couldn't wake her up at all. There are two more things they need to check for, so I'm to go back in next Tuesday morning for (hopefully) a final ultrasound.
Of course, as soon as I got home, she woke up and started kicking. *sigh*
~M
I took Sunday off so I could again be sick at home and hopefully recover faster. I seem to be, but it's still kind of iffy.
Tuesday was the ultrasound appointment - you know, the one that I had to make because Elizabeth wasn't cooperating and kept moving around... Yeah, that one...
Well, I got there and immediately got under the belly probe - and wouldn't you know it - the little turtle decided not to wake up... AT ALL! She had wedged herself into my pelvic bone, with little feet propped into my cervix, and her head into my hip joint on the right side. She wouldn't move at all, and the radiology tech (same one as last time) and I just looked at one another and laughed.
I ended up being turned almost completely upside down to try and roll her out, since jiggling my belly vigerously wouldn't work. She finally did roll out of the hip, but she kept her feet tucked into my cervix, the little impling.
We spent another hour and 20 minutes or so trying to get her to roll over and move into the best positions to get photos... All we got was her looking vaguely annoyed, and moving one hand, then rolling over and ignoring us.
At one point, in order to get a clear picture of the feet, they had to do a vag ultrasound. She has long toes, I'll say that much. And we got a good look of her folding herself in half, her little knees pressed up to her nose. Long legs, too, from the look of her - not going to take much after me, bone-wise.
We went back for another round of abdominal scans, but still couldn't wake her up at all. There are two more things they need to check for, so I'm to go back in next Tuesday morning for (hopefully) a final ultrasound.
Of course, as soon as I got home, she woke up and started kicking. *sigh*
~M
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Today's adventures!
We got up at 8am this morning to head out to the 56th Annual Greek Festival, over in NE PDX. I have tried to go every year, ever since I found out we had one. I love me some lamb and Gyros! Not to mention the delicious pastries and wonderful music that always ends up playing there.
Upon arriving at around 11am, we were lucky enough to find ourselves early - this meant no elbowing through the crowds like last year, and meant that we were able to really enjoy ourselves in both eating and browsing through their little shop area within the church rectory. We walked in, I pulled out money to get our "talents" (that's what the greek currancy is called), and then we were presented with this little gem of a sign:
The most amusing part is that the Greek Orthodox Church was thought of (at least, by me) to be fairly tea-totalling...
And then, the most luscious smells began to waft over to us, and Fred and I had to go investigate:
I loves me some lamb... Unfortunately, we missed out on the lamb as I had to be at work by 2:45pm and the dinner didn't even start until 1pm. *sigh* However, that is something to keep in mind for next year - I may simply have to take the day off so I can head over and have me some lamb dinner. Yum...
Afterwards, Fred and I headed back downtown, and he and I parted ways - me to go to work, and him to head over to Michaels to pick up yarn for me, and then home... Apparently to reek havoc on the front room and kitchen. His corner, for the first time in months, is clean. I was horribly startled by the picture. I'm going to do what's left on Monday, and work on the bedrooms as well.
Oh - and I ordered my sewing machine. I'm hoping it will be here in a few weeks. I'm so excited!
~M
Upon arriving at around 11am, we were lucky enough to find ourselves early - this meant no elbowing through the crowds like last year, and meant that we were able to really enjoy ourselves in both eating and browsing through their little shop area within the church rectory. We walked in, I pulled out money to get our "talents" (that's what the greek currancy is called), and then we were presented with this little gem of a sign:
The most amusing part is that the Greek Orthodox Church was thought of (at least, by me) to be fairly tea-totalling...
And then, the most luscious smells began to waft over to us, and Fred and I had to go investigate:
I loves me some lamb... Unfortunately, we missed out on the lamb as I had to be at work by 2:45pm and the dinner didn't even start until 1pm. *sigh* However, that is something to keep in mind for next year - I may simply have to take the day off so I can head over and have me some lamb dinner. Yum...
Afterwards, Fred and I headed back downtown, and he and I parted ways - me to go to work, and him to head over to Michaels to pick up yarn for me, and then home... Apparently to reek havoc on the front room and kitchen. His corner, for the first time in months, is clean. I was horribly startled by the picture. I'm going to do what's left on Monday, and work on the bedrooms as well.
Oh - and I ordered my sewing machine. I'm hoping it will be here in a few weeks. I'm so excited!
~M
Friday, October 05, 2007
Yell OPA! and do something fun this weekend!
56th Annual Greek Festival!
3131 NE Glisan (You can take the # 19 from downtown and save your parking sanity!)
October 5, 6, 7
10am to 10pm Friday and Saturday
Noon to 8pm on Sunday
Authentic Greek Dinners:
Adults: $12.00
Seniors 65-plus: $10.00
Children under 12: $6.00
Prices apply all hours, all days
Dinner tickets are available at the information booth or at the door. Talents are one dollar each.
Combination Plate on Friday and Saturday, 11am to 8pm:
Dolmathes, pastitsio, keflethes, green beans yiahni, salad, bread, beverage, and dessert
Vegetarian Plate (available every day):
Spanakopita, green beans yiahni, salata, bread, beverage and dessert
Kota Riganati on Sunday, noon to 8pm:
Half roasted chicken with with lemon, manestra, green beans yiahni, salata, bread, beverage, and dessert
Cooking Demonstrations:
Learn to make Greek dishes and desserts from Chrisoula and George Papas, authors of "The Art of Greek Cooking", Saturday and Sunday only, 1:00. Admission: three talents.
Agora/Monasteraki:
Imported crafts and gifts from Greece: Rugs, Décor, Textiles, Ethnic Jewelry, Hand Knit Sweaters, Fisherman Hats and T-shirts.
Fine Gold and Silver Jewelry:
Traditional, Byzantine, and more designs imported from Greece.
Deli:
Gourment Imports: fine cheeses, olives, olive oil, pastas, herbs and spices, preserves, nuts, and more.
Children's Corner:
10:00pm-8:00pm Friday
Noon to 8:00pm Saturday and Sunday.
Activities: face painting, gold "medals", ivy wreaths, coloring, games, puppet shows, and more! Admission: two talents.
Kafenion Prices
Assorted Pastries 2 talents or 2 for 3 talents
Loukoumades 2 talents (small), 3 talents (large)
American Coffee 1 talent
Greek Coffee 2 talents
Frappe (iced Greek coffee) 3 talents
Sodas and Bottled Water 1 talent
Taverna Prices
Feta Dip, Hummus, and Vegetables 5 talents
Cheese and Olive Sampler 4 talents
Greek Pasta Salad and Bread 5 talents
Village Salad and Bread 5 talents
Gyro 4 talents
Sausage 3 talents
Souvlaki 4 talents
Spanakopita 3 talents
Tropita 3 talents
Beer Micro Brew 5 talents
Domestic Beer 4 talents
Wine 4 talents
O'Douls non-alcoholic beer 2 talents
Soda and Water 1 talent
A La Carte (Served in Outside Tents)
Lamb
Lamb tickets are available at the talent booth 7 talents
Deli
Feta Dip and Vegetables 4 talents
Greek Village Salad and Bread 4 talents
Cheese and Olive Sampler 4 talents
Greek Pasta Salad and Bread 4 talents
Pre-packaged Pastries
Package of 6 $7.00
Package of 8 $9.00
Combination (variety of 7) $8.00
Bougasta (package of 2) $3.00
Diples (package of 2) $5.00
Karithopita $3.00
Koulourakia $5.00 per dozen
Paximadia $7.00 per dozen
Tsoureki (sweetened bread) $7.00
Raffle
$1.00 donation per ticket.
Grand Prize: Choice of 2 round trip tickets to Greece or Hawaii (some restrictions apply)
2nd Prize: 42-inch Plamsa Color TV
3rd Prize: 3 days/2 nights at The Inn at Spanish Head - Oregon Coast, Lincoln City, Oregon
4th Prize: Apple iPod, 60 GB color screen
Ethos Bookstore: Located in the church hall. Books, icons, music.
Greek Folk Dance Schedule
Friday 5:00pm, 5:45pm, 6:30pm, and 8:00pm
Saturday 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 4:45pm, 5:30pm, 7:00pm, and 8:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 4:30pm, and 5:30pm
Performances take place on the 31st Avenue dance stage. Performance times noted in bold take place in the dining room.
Tours and Presentations of the Church
12:00 noon Guided tour
1:00pm Video - "Beginnings"
2:00pm Guided Tour
3:00pm Video - "Byzantium"
4:00pm Guided Tour
5:00pm Video - "A Hidden Treasure"
6:00pm Daily Vespers
7:00pm Questions and Answers Session
Sunday Services
8:45am Orthros (Matins)
10:00am Divine Liturgy
6:00pm Vespers
Visitors, please observe and respect a strict code of conduct in the sanctuary, our place of worship. No food, drinks, chewing gum, or loud talking.
Thank you.
Guide to Greek Pastries:
Baklava
Delicately thin pastry leaves (filo) spread with butter and filled with a walnut/spice mixture and topped with syrup.
Bougatsa
A custard type filling in filo. Topped with honey, cinnamon and powdered sugar.
Diples
A delicate butter and egg pastry deep-fried and dipped in honey. Sprinkled with spices and nuts.
Kadaifi
Kadaifi dough with butter, chopped walnuts, cinnamon and cloves, topped with a honey syrup.
Karithopita
Spiced walnut honey cake.
Koulourakia
An all butter and egg braided cookie. Not overly sweet and good with coffee.
Spiced Orange Koulourakia
A braided cookie make with pure vegetable shortening and spices.
Kourabiethes
An all-butter and egg yolk shortbread-type cookie flavored with brandy and dusted heavily with powdered sugar.
Melomakarona
An orange-flavored cookie spiced with cinnamon. Dipped in honey and sprinkled with nuts.
Pasta Flora
An all-butter cookie with an apricot filling.
Paximadia
Choose one of the five flavors of this Greek biscuit: lemon, orange, amaretto, anise, or chocolate.
Rolla
Rolled filo with walnuts and spice mixture, topped with honey syrup and chocolate.
Tsoureki
Braided sweet bread, make with eggs, milk, sugar, and butter.
3131 NE Glisan (You can take the # 19 from downtown and save your parking sanity!)
October 5, 6, 7
10am to 10pm Friday and Saturday
Noon to 8pm on Sunday
Authentic Greek Dinners:
Adults: $12.00
Seniors 65-plus: $10.00
Children under 12: $6.00
Prices apply all hours, all days
Dinner tickets are available at the information booth or at the door. Talents are one dollar each.
Combination Plate on Friday and Saturday, 11am to 8pm:
Dolmathes, pastitsio, keflethes, green beans yiahni, salad, bread, beverage, and dessert
Vegetarian Plate (available every day):
Spanakopita, green beans yiahni, salata, bread, beverage and dessert
Kota Riganati on Sunday, noon to 8pm:
Half roasted chicken with with lemon, manestra, green beans yiahni, salata, bread, beverage, and dessert
Cooking Demonstrations:
Learn to make Greek dishes and desserts from Chrisoula and George Papas, authors of "The Art of Greek Cooking", Saturday and Sunday only, 1:00. Admission: three talents.
Agora/Monasteraki:
Imported crafts and gifts from Greece: Rugs, Décor, Textiles, Ethnic Jewelry, Hand Knit Sweaters, Fisherman Hats and T-shirts.
Fine Gold and Silver Jewelry:
Traditional, Byzantine, and more designs imported from Greece.
Deli:
Gourment Imports: fine cheeses, olives, olive oil, pastas, herbs and spices, preserves, nuts, and more.
Children's Corner:
10:00pm-8:00pm Friday
Noon to 8:00pm Saturday and Sunday.
Activities: face painting, gold "medals", ivy wreaths, coloring, games, puppet shows, and more! Admission: two talents.
Kafenion Prices
Assorted Pastries 2 talents or 2 for 3 talents
Loukoumades 2 talents (small), 3 talents (large)
American Coffee 1 talent
Greek Coffee 2 talents
Frappe (iced Greek coffee) 3 talents
Sodas and Bottled Water 1 talent
Taverna Prices
Feta Dip, Hummus, and Vegetables 5 talents
Cheese and Olive Sampler 4 talents
Greek Pasta Salad and Bread 5 talents
Village Salad and Bread 5 talents
Gyro 4 talents
Sausage 3 talents
Souvlaki 4 talents
Spanakopita 3 talents
Tropita 3 talents
Beer Micro Brew 5 talents
Domestic Beer 4 talents
Wine 4 talents
O'Douls non-alcoholic beer 2 talents
Soda and Water 1 talent
A La Carte (Served in Outside Tents)
Lamb
Lamb tickets are available at the talent booth 7 talents
Deli
Feta Dip and Vegetables 4 talents
Greek Village Salad and Bread 4 talents
Cheese and Olive Sampler 4 talents
Greek Pasta Salad and Bread 4 talents
Pre-packaged Pastries
Package of 6 $7.00
Package of 8 $9.00
Combination (variety of 7) $8.00
Bougasta (package of 2) $3.00
Diples (package of 2) $5.00
Karithopita $3.00
Koulourakia $5.00 per dozen
Paximadia $7.00 per dozen
Tsoureki (sweetened bread) $7.00
Raffle
$1.00 donation per ticket.
Grand Prize: Choice of 2 round trip tickets to Greece or Hawaii (some restrictions apply)
2nd Prize: 42-inch Plamsa Color TV
3rd Prize: 3 days/2 nights at The Inn at Spanish Head - Oregon Coast, Lincoln City, Oregon
4th Prize: Apple iPod, 60 GB color screen
Ethos Bookstore: Located in the church hall. Books, icons, music.
Greek Folk Dance Schedule
Friday 5:00pm, 5:45pm, 6:30pm, and 8:00pm
Saturday 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 4:45pm, 5:30pm, 7:00pm, and 8:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 4:30pm, and 5:30pm
Performances take place on the 31st Avenue dance stage. Performance times noted in bold take place in the dining room.
Tours and Presentations of the Church
12:00 noon Guided tour
1:00pm Video - "Beginnings"
2:00pm Guided Tour
3:00pm Video - "Byzantium"
4:00pm Guided Tour
5:00pm Video - "A Hidden Treasure"
6:00pm Daily Vespers
7:00pm Questions and Answers Session
Sunday Services
8:45am Orthros (Matins)
10:00am Divine Liturgy
6:00pm Vespers
Visitors, please observe and respect a strict code of conduct in the sanctuary, our place of worship. No food, drinks, chewing gum, or loud talking.
Thank you.
Guide to Greek Pastries:
Baklava
Delicately thin pastry leaves (filo) spread with butter and filled with a walnut/spice mixture and topped with syrup.
Bougatsa
A custard type filling in filo. Topped with honey, cinnamon and powdered sugar.
Diples
A delicate butter and egg pastry deep-fried and dipped in honey. Sprinkled with spices and nuts.
Kadaifi
Kadaifi dough with butter, chopped walnuts, cinnamon and cloves, topped with a honey syrup.
Karithopita
Spiced walnut honey cake.
Koulourakia
An all butter and egg braided cookie. Not overly sweet and good with coffee.
Spiced Orange Koulourakia
A braided cookie make with pure vegetable shortening and spices.
Kourabiethes
An all-butter and egg yolk shortbread-type cookie flavored with brandy and dusted heavily with powdered sugar.
Melomakarona
An orange-flavored cookie spiced with cinnamon. Dipped in honey and sprinkled with nuts.
Pasta Flora
An all-butter cookie with an apricot filling.
Paximadia
Choose one of the five flavors of this Greek biscuit: lemon, orange, amaretto, anise, or chocolate.
Rolla
Rolled filo with walnuts and spice mixture, topped with honey syrup and chocolate.
Tsoureki
Braided sweet bread, make with eggs, milk, sugar, and butter.
Back in the saddle... sort of...
Well, the dental visit wasn't as horrendous as it could have been. Luckily, I only had 3 or 4 panic attacks, and didn't once strike out at the dentist.
The molar I'd been having issues with for the last 15 years or so finally was removed. It had been determined to deteriorate to this point from just prior to graduating high school, regardless of what my dentist or I did to try and save it. So, there it is - or rather, was. It's out, at least, so I don't have to deal with it any longer.
I'm on Children's liquid Tylenol for most pain management, with Motrin 800's for more extreme pain issues, and Vicodin for those times I have been smacked in the face repeatedly and am in such pain that I can barely breathe...
The good news is, other than the pain meds, the visit didn't cost me anything - and I was put into an urgent appointment within 24 hrs of calling, and was in and out of the office within an hour and a half. Not bad. I still have my "welcome" visit on the 26th, which I will keep, since I do need to take better care of myself - and with dental coverage like this I have *no* excuse not to.
In other news, Elizabeth is kicking up a storm... She's horribly unimpressed with the current soft-foods diet I'm on, and doesn't like the lack of calories coming her way. *chuckle* And she lets me know it. She also wakes up at 3am, with Daddy, and doesn't let me go to sleep until around 4:30. *sigh* She kicked me in the lower pelvis twice this morning, HARD, and then the bladder - guaranteeing that I got up immediately.
Tomorrow morning Fred and I are going to the Greek festival. I'm expecting to be *much* improved by tomorrow, and should be off most of the soft foods - and even if I'm not, I'm going to go for some baklava and gyros anyway. I've been good for two days with taking care of my mouth, and I deserve to be, carefully, rewarded. It may take me an hour to eat one, but I'm going to go for it, darn it. I wanna have my gyros at the greek festival. It's probably a good thing I have pain meds.
~M
The molar I'd been having issues with for the last 15 years or so finally was removed. It had been determined to deteriorate to this point from just prior to graduating high school, regardless of what my dentist or I did to try and save it. So, there it is - or rather, was. It's out, at least, so I don't have to deal with it any longer.
I'm on Children's liquid Tylenol for most pain management, with Motrin 800's for more extreme pain issues, and Vicodin for those times I have been smacked in the face repeatedly and am in such pain that I can barely breathe...
The good news is, other than the pain meds, the visit didn't cost me anything - and I was put into an urgent appointment within 24 hrs of calling, and was in and out of the office within an hour and a half. Not bad. I still have my "welcome" visit on the 26th, which I will keep, since I do need to take better care of myself - and with dental coverage like this I have *no* excuse not to.
In other news, Elizabeth is kicking up a storm... She's horribly unimpressed with the current soft-foods diet I'm on, and doesn't like the lack of calories coming her way. *chuckle* And she lets me know it. She also wakes up at 3am, with Daddy, and doesn't let me go to sleep until around 4:30. *sigh* She kicked me in the lower pelvis twice this morning, HARD, and then the bladder - guaranteeing that I got up immediately.
Tomorrow morning Fred and I are going to the Greek festival. I'm expecting to be *much* improved by tomorrow, and should be off most of the soft foods - and even if I'm not, I'm going to go for some baklava and gyros anyway. I've been good for two days with taking care of my mouth, and I deserve to be, carefully, rewarded. It may take me an hour to eat one, but I'm going to go for it, darn it. I wanna have my gyros at the greek festival. It's probably a good thing I have pain meds.
~M
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
I'm in pain, pain pain....
Yes, two posts in a day... I had to, since this had nothing do with the prior post, and vice versa.
I'm in massive pain. In fact, in so much pain that I can barely move the left side of my face. Why? Because of the tooth (or possibly teeth) that have decided to mutiny and won't allow me to wait until the 26th for my "welcome" visit to my dentist's office.
Have I mentioned I have a loathing fear of dentists? I mean, a serious, deep abiding phobia of them... but I'm in so much pain, that I'm willing to brave them to get rid of the pain and quit being on pain meds that won't touch it unless I O.D. on them - which isn't good for the baby...
I ended up having to call in to work today because I would have ended up huddled under my desk crying from how much pain I'm in. I currently am not doing as bad, if only because I haven't actually been talking or moving my mouth in any way at all.
The good news, I've passed my 6 month anniversary as of yesterday. The bad news, I have to deal with this crap today... I don't wanna! BUT - I am tired of not sleeping until I'm so exhausted that I pass out...
Here's hoping that they fix it the first time.
~M
I'm in massive pain. In fact, in so much pain that I can barely move the left side of my face. Why? Because of the tooth (or possibly teeth) that have decided to mutiny and won't allow me to wait until the 26th for my "welcome" visit to my dentist's office.
Have I mentioned I have a loathing fear of dentists? I mean, a serious, deep abiding phobia of them... but I'm in so much pain, that I'm willing to brave them to get rid of the pain and quit being on pain meds that won't touch it unless I O.D. on them - which isn't good for the baby...
I ended up having to call in to work today because I would have ended up huddled under my desk crying from how much pain I'm in. I currently am not doing as bad, if only because I haven't actually been talking or moving my mouth in any way at all.
The good news, I've passed my 6 month anniversary as of yesterday. The bad news, I have to deal with this crap today... I don't wanna! BUT - I am tired of not sleeping until I'm so exhausted that I pass out...
Here's hoping that they fix it the first time.
~M
Re-defining when to go...
So, Lanius did a post yesterday about when to let go of a relationship... I thought it such a great topic that I decided to follow it with my own thoughts on the subject, since I've had such a plethora of relationship woes in my past... Mostly with one person (scary).
First of all, GOOD relationships, as a whole, should involve a lot of three things: Communication, communication, communication. Without it, there will be misunderstandings, angry words, fights about absolutely nothing, mistrust, and general mayhem and dischord, until the whole things melts into oblivion, leaving both sides to wonder what in Odin's name happened.
Strictly speaking from my own personal experience, getting into a relationship when you're young is probably not the best thing in the world - unless both people are looking to grow together... I know, there are exceptions to this. I've met them. I'm amazed by them, honestly. Then again, these people have known one another since grade school and have grown up together understanding what and where their foibles came from. Makes it a bit easier once romance is added to the mix, if only because they've seen their significant other at both their best and their worst - before they got rose-tinted glasses.
Still and yet, the majority of those who enter into a romantic or serious relationship at a young age end up (eventually) getting hurt because one person will grow toward maturity while the other one doesn't - or they grow at different rates and it just doesn't mesh well.
That's not to say that no one should date until you're 30. On the contrary, go ahead, date to your heart's content. Just don't have serious expectations of walking down the aisle, or staying with this person for more than a few months. Rare it is to have high school sweethearts stay together past graduation, and get married, and STAY married... (Yeah, the piece on the news yesterday about the couple having their 80th anniversary? There's a reason it was on the news - it's RARE, people).
There's also the issues of when to call it off. Is it something big that they're doing? Or is it something that honestly, really, while it bugs the hell out of you at times, is something that is live-withable? It's a matter of picking your battles and defining what is important to you, as an individual. Just because you're in a relationship doesn't negate the fact that you are still an individual, needing specific things that your significant other may or may not need.
In my world, there are a few simple rules that dictate whether to go after the situation with a vengeance or whether to simply let it go and not sweat it:
1. Hurting anyone, even ones-self, on purpose, whether physically, mentally or emotionally - yeah, that's gonna be a battle.
2. Constant belittling of someone, unconsciously - yeah, that's gonna be a battle, too.
3. Drinking or eating the last of something and not putting it on the list for shopping - nope, not going to be a big deal. I can look, too.
4. Using the last of the shampoo and not replacing it and/or not tossing the empty bottle - nope, not going to be a big deal. I am capable of throwing stuff away.
5. Being nasty to the family pet, for no apparent reason - yeah, that's gonna be a battle.
It's not always so black and white in the world, but you get the idea - if it's something that either of you were either capable of doing yourself but didn't, or either of you have been guilty of doing in the past (eating the last ho-ho and not putting it on the list being one of them), then chances are, it's probably not worth it to fight or bicker about it until you both throw up your hands and quit the relationship. I mean, honestly - it's a ho-ho, folks, metaphore or not. Let's get real, here.
On the other hand, if your significant other constantly puts you, your friends, your family, your pet or themselves into dangerous or even life-threatening situations, then yeah, it's time for a reckoning. No one has the right to do that to another living creature (We aren't talking getting meat from an animal for food - we'll save that arguement for another day). I don't care if it's drugs, alcohol, physical abuse, mental abuse, emotional abuse... Whatever. I don't care. No one has the right to do that and then expect that the next morning, everything will be ok and happy and shiny. Because it won't be.
I know - I was in an emotionally and mentally abusive relationship for 10 years. TEN!! And I'm a reasonably intelligent person - most times (I don't wanna hear it, Lil. Giggle)... I made excuses, blamed myself for his shortcomings, and generally did everything I could to make the situation better without actually addressing the issue. Why? Because I was afraid of being alone. He had brainwashed me so well into thinking I could never find anyone who would "love" me the way that he did, and no one else besides him wanted me - I was terrified of never finding anyone else.
Frankly, he was both right and wrong... Once I was free of him, I didn't find another person who "loved" me the way that he did. And thank the ever-loving Gods for it. I also found a number of people who did want me, regardless of what I'd been through, what kind of emotional or mental wreck I was, or how I looked. And I thank the ever-loving Gods for that, too.
How did I get free of him? Well, I had a lot of help from friends, and it was a two year process of me growing up and away from him while he mentally stagnated and either ignored me or continued to try and verbally tear me down... Once I did do something (I packed up his things and told him to get out), he was all of a sudden all over me, trying to "make up" for all the things he had done in the past, etc, etc... I refused to listen to him, and through all of it, I found something that had been lost in those 10 years... myself.
The bottom line is, you pick your own battles in your relationship, regardless of whether they be big ones or small. The trick is to figure out what's big and what isn't, and what's important and what's not. I won't lie - Fred and I have things that we don't always agree about. But we look at each of them in turn and decide whether it's big enough to confront or not. Is it something that could potentially destroy us or is it something that we can learn to live with?
Either way, while we may mention something in passing to friends as an occasional annoyance, it's not something that will make or break the relationship. It's just one of those things that we learn to live with because we're here for the long run - people aren't perfect, but we can learn to live with one anothers imperfections if they aren't going to harm us.
~M
First of all, GOOD relationships, as a whole, should involve a lot of three things: Communication, communication, communication. Without it, there will be misunderstandings, angry words, fights about absolutely nothing, mistrust, and general mayhem and dischord, until the whole things melts into oblivion, leaving both sides to wonder what in Odin's name happened.
Strictly speaking from my own personal experience, getting into a relationship when you're young is probably not the best thing in the world - unless both people are looking to grow together... I know, there are exceptions to this. I've met them. I'm amazed by them, honestly. Then again, these people have known one another since grade school and have grown up together understanding what and where their foibles came from. Makes it a bit easier once romance is added to the mix, if only because they've seen their significant other at both their best and their worst - before they got rose-tinted glasses.
Still and yet, the majority of those who enter into a romantic or serious relationship at a young age end up (eventually) getting hurt because one person will grow toward maturity while the other one doesn't - or they grow at different rates and it just doesn't mesh well.
That's not to say that no one should date until you're 30. On the contrary, go ahead, date to your heart's content. Just don't have serious expectations of walking down the aisle, or staying with this person for more than a few months. Rare it is to have high school sweethearts stay together past graduation, and get married, and STAY married... (Yeah, the piece on the news yesterday about the couple having their 80th anniversary? There's a reason it was on the news - it's RARE, people).
There's also the issues of when to call it off. Is it something big that they're doing? Or is it something that honestly, really, while it bugs the hell out of you at times, is something that is live-withable? It's a matter of picking your battles and defining what is important to you, as an individual. Just because you're in a relationship doesn't negate the fact that you are still an individual, needing specific things that your significant other may or may not need.
In my world, there are a few simple rules that dictate whether to go after the situation with a vengeance or whether to simply let it go and not sweat it:
1. Hurting anyone, even ones-self, on purpose, whether physically, mentally or emotionally - yeah, that's gonna be a battle.
2. Constant belittling of someone, unconsciously - yeah, that's gonna be a battle, too.
3. Drinking or eating the last of something and not putting it on the list for shopping - nope, not going to be a big deal. I can look, too.
4. Using the last of the shampoo and not replacing it and/or not tossing the empty bottle - nope, not going to be a big deal. I am capable of throwing stuff away.
5. Being nasty to the family pet, for no apparent reason - yeah, that's gonna be a battle.
It's not always so black and white in the world, but you get the idea - if it's something that either of you were either capable of doing yourself but didn't, or either of you have been guilty of doing in the past (eating the last ho-ho and not putting it on the list being one of them), then chances are, it's probably not worth it to fight or bicker about it until you both throw up your hands and quit the relationship. I mean, honestly - it's a ho-ho, folks, metaphore or not. Let's get real, here.
On the other hand, if your significant other constantly puts you, your friends, your family, your pet or themselves into dangerous or even life-threatening situations, then yeah, it's time for a reckoning. No one has the right to do that to another living creature (We aren't talking getting meat from an animal for food - we'll save that arguement for another day). I don't care if it's drugs, alcohol, physical abuse, mental abuse, emotional abuse... Whatever. I don't care. No one has the right to do that and then expect that the next morning, everything will be ok and happy and shiny. Because it won't be.
I know - I was in an emotionally and mentally abusive relationship for 10 years. TEN!! And I'm a reasonably intelligent person - most times (I don't wanna hear it, Lil. Giggle)... I made excuses, blamed myself for his shortcomings, and generally did everything I could to make the situation better without actually addressing the issue. Why? Because I was afraid of being alone. He had brainwashed me so well into thinking I could never find anyone who would "love" me the way that he did, and no one else besides him wanted me - I was terrified of never finding anyone else.
Frankly, he was both right and wrong... Once I was free of him, I didn't find another person who "loved" me the way that he did. And thank the ever-loving Gods for it. I also found a number of people who did want me, regardless of what I'd been through, what kind of emotional or mental wreck I was, or how I looked. And I thank the ever-loving Gods for that, too.
How did I get free of him? Well, I had a lot of help from friends, and it was a two year process of me growing up and away from him while he mentally stagnated and either ignored me or continued to try and verbally tear me down... Once I did do something (I packed up his things and told him to get out), he was all of a sudden all over me, trying to "make up" for all the things he had done in the past, etc, etc... I refused to listen to him, and through all of it, I found something that had been lost in those 10 years... myself.
The bottom line is, you pick your own battles in your relationship, regardless of whether they be big ones or small. The trick is to figure out what's big and what isn't, and what's important and what's not. I won't lie - Fred and I have things that we don't always agree about. But we look at each of them in turn and decide whether it's big enough to confront or not. Is it something that could potentially destroy us or is it something that we can learn to live with?
Either way, while we may mention something in passing to friends as an occasional annoyance, it's not something that will make or break the relationship. It's just one of those things that we learn to live with because we're here for the long run - people aren't perfect, but we can learn to live with one anothers imperfections if they aren't going to harm us.
~M
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