I have found that it is increasingly difficult to write. The more I sit and think about how I should be writing, the less I actually write. I have been trying to determine why it is so difficult. Why am I having such a hard time writing? Why, all of a sudden, am I doubting and second guessing every sentence I write?
For over a year I have been unable to organize my thoughts and when I do, I wonder if I will offend someone. It is difficult to write when you are censoring yourself at the same time. So, I have decided that I need to take a breath. I need to organize (and clean) my office, I need to get my laundry done... Maybe when that is done I will be able to write something down. Until then, I will stare blankly at this computer screen and wonder if what I want to write is even worth writing.
Wish me luck!
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Friday, February 17, 2012
Complacency
I am very opinionated. I was lucky enough to be raised by parents who allowed me to make my own decisions and develop my own opinions in life. My father is one of the best devil's advocates I have ever met. He is the only bleeding heart liberal who would say "and what makes you think women should have rights?" with a straight face. He would sit patiently and wait for me to think and respond only to ask another question. I love this about my parents. I love that they would always tell us all sides of an argument and allow us to make our own decisions. I love that they tried very, very hard to keep their opinions from being my opinions.
I try very hard to raise my children in the same way, but there are some issues that cause my foot to hit the ground. There are two issues that I will not even allow my children to consider the other side. Hate and Choice... these are non negotiable.
My children will never, ever have the choice to hate someone because they are different. No matter what! You will never hear me allow them to make THIS decision on their own. I will happily indoctrinate them into my "liberal" views of every person, regardless of race, religion, gender or sexual orientation is equal. I will preach to them with every last breath that people deserve respect and compassion at all times. I will teach them that the only time it is okay to stop someone from speaking is if they are hurting someone else, intentionally, with their words. I will ensure that they have the strength of mind to stand up for what they believe in and ,in doing so, are protecting the rights of everyone around them.
Today, my nine year old daughter shared a story with me that chilled me to the bone. She told me stories of racism and slut shaming on her bus, a bus that only transports children from kindergarten to fourth grade.
Today, I sat my children down and started my rant.
Today, I made it clear that they understand what is acceptable and what is not.
Today, I gave my children the power to stand up for what is right and to stand up for those who need help.
Today, I showed my children that sitting back and doing nothing is exactly the same as causing the problem.
Today, I encouraged my children to do what is right, not what is popular.
Tomorrow, I will do it all over again.
I hope parents realize that when they sit by and do nothing, they are teaching their children. If we, as adults, don't show our kids that action is more important than complacency, then how can this world ever become a better place? Please remember, the "it doesn't impact my kid" argument no longer exists. If your child is exposed to a situation, it affects them... period.
I try very hard to raise my children in the same way, but there are some issues that cause my foot to hit the ground. There are two issues that I will not even allow my children to consider the other side. Hate and Choice... these are non negotiable.
My children will never, ever have the choice to hate someone because they are different. No matter what! You will never hear me allow them to make THIS decision on their own. I will happily indoctrinate them into my "liberal" views of every person, regardless of race, religion, gender or sexual orientation is equal. I will preach to them with every last breath that people deserve respect and compassion at all times. I will teach them that the only time it is okay to stop someone from speaking is if they are hurting someone else, intentionally, with their words. I will ensure that they have the strength of mind to stand up for what they believe in and ,in doing so, are protecting the rights of everyone around them.
Today, my nine year old daughter shared a story with me that chilled me to the bone. She told me stories of racism and slut shaming on her bus, a bus that only transports children from kindergarten to fourth grade.
Today, I sat my children down and started my rant.
Today, I made it clear that they understand what is acceptable and what is not.
Today, I gave my children the power to stand up for what is right and to stand up for those who need help.
Today, I showed my children that sitting back and doing nothing is exactly the same as causing the problem.
Today, I encouraged my children to do what is right, not what is popular.
Tomorrow, I will do it all over again.
I hope parents realize that when they sit by and do nothing, they are teaching their children. If we, as adults, don't show our kids that action is more important than complacency, then how can this world ever become a better place? Please remember, the "it doesn't impact my kid" argument no longer exists. If your child is exposed to a situation, it affects them... period.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Clear thoughts are over-rated...
I have not written anything in ages... and I mean anything. I had this grand notion that once I was no longer working I would have all of this energy to write. Somehow, I would magically organize my life and my thoughts and be able to sit down from 9 - 12 and write 1,000 words. That has not happened. In fact, the opposite has happened. I am currently more unorganized than I have ever been in my entire life and I can't seem to pull myself together enough to correct the situation.
One would think that in the 6 hours a day two of the three kids are out of the house I would be able to get something done, but alas I cannot. I am constantly playing catch up which makes anything pre-emptive impossible. The sad thing is I don't have anything to show for it. It isn't as if I am sitting around watching TV or sleeping or even reading a book.
My time gets sucked into a giant black hole of staring at the piles of everything I have to do, but not actually doing it. I guess it is true, one can feel so overwhelmed that it is easier to do nothing. This will pass... right?
One would think that in the 6 hours a day two of the three kids are out of the house I would be able to get something done, but alas I cannot. I am constantly playing catch up which makes anything pre-emptive impossible. The sad thing is I don't have anything to show for it. It isn't as if I am sitting around watching TV or sleeping or even reading a book.
My time gets sucked into a giant black hole of staring at the piles of everything I have to do, but not actually doing it. I guess it is true, one can feel so overwhelmed that it is easier to do nothing. This will pass... right?
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Book Suggestions...
Do you ever have those moments where you look around and realize that you are not doing anything that had previously helped you relax and made you happy? That is how I feel right now. Please don't misunderstand, spending time with my kids makes me happy. I love it, I just feel like i am missing something...
Today I finally realized what it is that I am missing...a good book. Gosh, I am not even that picky, it doesn't even have to be good. It just has to help me escape into my mind for just a little bit. Something that I will get sucked into and not want to put down. For some reason, I just can't get enough energy to pick up a book.
So, I need someone to give me a suggestion... any suggestion will do...
Today I finally realized what it is that I am missing...a good book. Gosh, I am not even that picky, it doesn't even have to be good. It just has to help me escape into my mind for just a little bit. Something that I will get sucked into and not want to put down. For some reason, I just can't get enough energy to pick up a book.
So, I need someone to give me a suggestion... any suggestion will do...
Thursday, July 28, 2011
What will I do next?
I have spent the last 20 years trying to figure out a way to never grow up. I am the female Peter Pan. I don't want to go to work in an office. I don't want to clean the house. I don't want to do the laundry. What I would like to do is sit at my desk all day and just write, read and listen to music. Unfortunately, I also like to eat, drive my car and sleep in a bed with a roof over my head. Therefore, I fully understand that I will have to find a job and I will most likely have to go back into an office. I am just not willing to accept that reality yet. So, instead I have decided that I am going to organize my life.
As of Friday, July 29th, I will join the ranks of the unemployed. What that means is that I will no longer have a reason for my kitchen being a mess, my laundry not being done and my shelves being dusty. This means I will have to assume the position of responsible adult and start doing housework. If you have ever met me then you know, the idea of this is repulsive. There is very little in the world I hate more than cleaning. I am one of those odd people who tends to be very organized and a bit of a control freak, but the idea of doing dishes or picking trash up off the floor is exhausting.
Given my deficit in so many areas of home management, I have decided that I am going to try one of those fun little "This is how you get your house and life organized" books. Lucky for me, my darling husband happens to be employed by a publisher that supplies just those books. As I have absolutely no qualms about biasedly choosing a book from his collection, I have decided that I will attempt to follow along with the book "Organize Now!" by Jennifer Ford Berry.
Now, I haven't actually read the book yet, but rumor is that it sells a lot of copies. Which we all know, if it sells a lot of copies it must be great...right?!? Plus, this book is "a week-by-week guide to simplify your space AND your life". Which means I get to spend a week on each section. If that isn't a procrastinators dream...
The downside, however, is that I am one of those people who works completely on momentum. I am afraid that if I spend an entire week on something I will never move on to the next step.
If you pick up the book, or have the book, let me know. Together, we can visit Never-Never Land and Never-Never be cluttered or disorganized again. Perhaps, as I organize my home (and my mind) I will finally decide what I want to be when I grow up.
As of Friday, July 29th, I will join the ranks of the unemployed. What that means is that I will no longer have a reason for my kitchen being a mess, my laundry not being done and my shelves being dusty. This means I will have to assume the position of responsible adult and start doing housework. If you have ever met me then you know, the idea of this is repulsive. There is very little in the world I hate more than cleaning. I am one of those odd people who tends to be very organized and a bit of a control freak, but the idea of doing dishes or picking trash up off the floor is exhausting.
Given my deficit in so many areas of home management, I have decided that I am going to try one of those fun little "This is how you get your house and life organized" books. Lucky for me, my darling husband happens to be employed by a publisher that supplies just those books. As I have absolutely no qualms about biasedly choosing a book from his collection, I have decided that I will attempt to follow along with the book "Organize Now!" by Jennifer Ford Berry.
Now, I haven't actually read the book yet, but rumor is that it sells a lot of copies. Which we all know, if it sells a lot of copies it must be great...right?!? Plus, this book is "a week-by-week guide to simplify your space AND your life". Which means I get to spend a week on each section. If that isn't a procrastinators dream...
The downside, however, is that I am one of those people who works completely on momentum. I am afraid that if I spend an entire week on something I will never move on to the next step.
If you pick up the book, or have the book, let me know. Together, we can visit Never-Never Land and Never-Never be cluttered or disorganized again. Perhaps, as I organize my home (and my mind) I will finally decide what I want to be when I grow up.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Another week...
Tomorrow is Monday. The beginning of another week. It is strange how normal tonight feels. I am sitting in front of the computer, the kids are in bed and I am planning for the week. I am writing my weekly to do list. The items that need to get done before the weekend. The list has the normal items; bills need to be paid, laundry needs to get done, rooms need to be cleaned, amendments need to be abstracted. A normal list, like any other week.
Unfortunately, this is not like any other week. This is the last week I will need to add work items to my list. At the end of this week I will be packing up my work computer and mailing it back to Ann Arbor. At the end of this week I will begin to shred massive amounts of legal documents that I have amassed over my last 7 years of work. At the end of this week only 1 in 10 employees will remain at the Borders Corporate office... only 1 in 10.
While that in and of itself is heartbreaking, the idea that by the end of September every Borders store will be gone and over 10,000 knowledgeable booksellers will be out of work is devastating. While I can imagine my life without my job, the idea of life without Borders is tragic.
Another week, an atypical week that will soon become the norm. I guess I will have to find another way to fill my to do list.
Unfortunately, this is not like any other week. This is the last week I will need to add work items to my list. At the end of this week I will be packing up my work computer and mailing it back to Ann Arbor. At the end of this week I will begin to shred massive amounts of legal documents that I have amassed over my last 7 years of work. At the end of this week only 1 in 10 employees will remain at the Borders Corporate office... only 1 in 10.
While that in and of itself is heartbreaking, the idea that by the end of September every Borders store will be gone and over 10,000 knowledgeable booksellers will be out of work is devastating. While I can imagine my life without my job, the idea of life without Borders is tragic.
Another week, an atypical week that will soon become the norm. I guess I will have to find another way to fill my to do list.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
The day after...
I am a little numb today. Just thinking about the world without Borders is thoroughly depressing. I have so many memories of Borders over the span of my life, it is sad to see something that was truly fantastic, in it's prime, disappear.
My first memories of Borders started at 16. That was when we could finally drive without Mom or Dad in the car. That is when we were free to start exploring on our own. One of my earliest adventures out on my own was a trip to Kansas City to visit the Borders at 93rd and Metcalf. I would later identify this as store 23. This store was amazing and so cool. They had all the best books and you could get any CD in their music section. I mean, they had everything from the obscure indy pop that we all thought was so cool to the fantastic regional and local bands we wished we were old enough to see at the Bottleneck any given night. We shopped and browsed for hours then we would leave Borders and walk over the Maggie Moos across the parking lot and indulge in the yumminess that was raspberry ice cream mixed with M&M's. We did not do this once, we did not do this twice, we did this so many times that I would go through Maggie Moos withdrawal when we went too long without a fix.
In 1999 Jon and I were living in Kearney, NE and ready to come back home to Kansas. He was commuting two hours every day to the Hastings in Grand Island, NE where he was the General Manager. While he liked the store, he didn't like the commute. One day he found out that Borders was opening a new store in Olathe, KS and shortly after we were presented the opportunity to move back home. He worked in three different Borders stores throughout his 2 years in the field before finally settling into a position in the Marketing Department at the Corporate Office.
Then in 2003 I was presented an opportunity to join him on Phoenix Drive and pounced. I have never looked back.
Over the last 15 years I have visited a lot of Borders. I have bought countless gifts at Borders. I have received countless gifts from Borders. My absolute favorite birthday gift (next to Emmy's pink toes) was the year Jon bought me 10 books and let me sit all weekend and read. He purchased them, at Borders of course, after contacting friends he had made at Borders and asking for recommendations.
There are so many things I will miss about Borders. I hope that Borders will be remembered in a positive light. I hope that people will remember the first time they walked into a Borders. Remember the first time they had a conversation with a bookseller. Remember all of the authors and books that were on the New York Times Best-Seller lists because a bookseller in Rapid City, SD recommended it to not only a single customer but all of the other booksellers throughout the country who then recommended it to a single customer. Remember the regional bands that would have never had an album on a store shelf had it not been for the consignment opportunities that were offered at Borders. Remember all of the artists whose painting were displayed and sold off of the Borders cafe walls. Remember the books that were donated to low-income schools and educational programs all over the country through First Book via Borders. Remember the impact that Borders has had on their communities. Remember that Borders, in its prime, was a hub for readers and writers everywhere.
My numbness will fade over time and I will mourn the loss of what Borders was. I will mourn the people, I will mourn the atmosphere, but most of all I will mourn the books.
My first memories of Borders started at 16. That was when we could finally drive without Mom or Dad in the car. That is when we were free to start exploring on our own. One of my earliest adventures out on my own was a trip to Kansas City to visit the Borders at 93rd and Metcalf. I would later identify this as store 23. This store was amazing and so cool. They had all the best books and you could get any CD in their music section. I mean, they had everything from the obscure indy pop that we all thought was so cool to the fantastic regional and local bands we wished we were old enough to see at the Bottleneck any given night. We shopped and browsed for hours then we would leave Borders and walk over the Maggie Moos across the parking lot and indulge in the yumminess that was raspberry ice cream mixed with M&M's. We did not do this once, we did not do this twice, we did this so many times that I would go through Maggie Moos withdrawal when we went too long without a fix.
In 1999 Jon and I were living in Kearney, NE and ready to come back home to Kansas. He was commuting two hours every day to the Hastings in Grand Island, NE where he was the General Manager. While he liked the store, he didn't like the commute. One day he found out that Borders was opening a new store in Olathe, KS and shortly after we were presented the opportunity to move back home. He worked in three different Borders stores throughout his 2 years in the field before finally settling into a position in the Marketing Department at the Corporate Office.
Then in 2003 I was presented an opportunity to join him on Phoenix Drive and pounced. I have never looked back.
Over the last 15 years I have visited a lot of Borders. I have bought countless gifts at Borders. I have received countless gifts from Borders. My absolute favorite birthday gift (next to Emmy's pink toes) was the year Jon bought me 10 books and let me sit all weekend and read. He purchased them, at Borders of course, after contacting friends he had made at Borders and asking for recommendations.
There are so many things I will miss about Borders. I hope that Borders will be remembered in a positive light. I hope that people will remember the first time they walked into a Borders. Remember the first time they had a conversation with a bookseller. Remember all of the authors and books that were on the New York Times Best-Seller lists because a bookseller in Rapid City, SD recommended it to not only a single customer but all of the other booksellers throughout the country who then recommended it to a single customer. Remember the regional bands that would have never had an album on a store shelf had it not been for the consignment opportunities that were offered at Borders. Remember all of the artists whose painting were displayed and sold off of the Borders cafe walls. Remember the books that were donated to low-income schools and educational programs all over the country through First Book via Borders. Remember the impact that Borders has had on their communities. Remember that Borders, in its prime, was a hub for readers and writers everywhere.
My numbness will fade over time and I will mourn the loss of what Borders was. I will mourn the people, I will mourn the atmosphere, but most of all I will mourn the books.
Monday, July 18, 2011
It is the end...
In the fall of 1994, as a college Freshman at Kansas State, I ventured down to the TV room in the basement of my dorm to watch the series premiere of a new medical drama. I was pre-med at the time and had every intention of spending my life in a white jacket. 15 years later, I sat on my couch watching the final episode of the same show. In those 15 years I never missed an episode. Even during the Retro Dance craze of my early twenties when Thursdays meant slinging $1.00 pitchers and $0.25 draws at the Granada. My VCR did my dirty work and I was able to escape into the perfect disasters that could only happen at County General. However, around year 11 I began to feel a disconnect from the staff. I would sit down at 9:00 Central (10:00 Eastern) Time and take a deep breath, pumping myself up to sit through another hour hoping I would feel the same draw to the characters and County General that I once had. Unfortunately, I never did. Still, every single Thursday night you would find me in the same place, waiting to take a glimpse into the ever changing world of my once favorite hospital. As I sat and watched that final episode I expected to be sad. I expected to feel a tremendous sense of loss. After all, I had spent every Thursday night for the past 15 years immersed in this imaginary world. I expected that I would mourn the loss of the characters and stories. However, as the dust settled I felt something very different than loss. I felt relief. It was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I was finally free from the world of Cook County.
Today, at 4:22, I (among every other person in my office) received an email telling us of the future of the organization for which I have worked the last 7 years. A company that I love and feel proud and lucky to have been associated. At first I was sad. Thousands of people all over the country will be unemployed. Access to a product I love will be diminished. Yet, once I had a chance to feel the pain and sadness, I felt relief. Relief that I will not be living with a constant block in the pit of my stomach. Relief that I will not have to wonder every morning if this will be the day that another round of massive layoffs will take place. For the first time in 4 years I will lay my head down on my pillow and not fear what will happen tomorrow.
Please don't misunderstand... I am worried about the sacrifices we will have to make going forward to survive as a single income family. I am sad and worried for myself and my co-workers in this challenging job market. I am sad that I will no longer have daily conversations with the people I have grown to respect over the last 7 years. I am sad. I am concerned. I am human. I am, however, ready to move forward. I am ready to see what the next chapter of my life holds. I am ready to see what else is on Thursday nights at 9:00 Central (10:00 Eastern) Time.
Today, at 4:22, I (among every other person in my office) received an email telling us of the future of the organization for which I have worked the last 7 years. A company that I love and feel proud and lucky to have been associated. At first I was sad. Thousands of people all over the country will be unemployed. Access to a product I love will be diminished. Yet, once I had a chance to feel the pain and sadness, I felt relief. Relief that I will not be living with a constant block in the pit of my stomach. Relief that I will not have to wonder every morning if this will be the day that another round of massive layoffs will take place. For the first time in 4 years I will lay my head down on my pillow and not fear what will happen tomorrow.
Please don't misunderstand... I am worried about the sacrifices we will have to make going forward to survive as a single income family. I am sad and worried for myself and my co-workers in this challenging job market. I am sad that I will no longer have daily conversations with the people I have grown to respect over the last 7 years. I am sad. I am concerned. I am human. I am, however, ready to move forward. I am ready to see what the next chapter of my life holds. I am ready to see what else is on Thursday nights at 9:00 Central (10:00 Eastern) Time.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Finally!
Today is June 2nd and I am so relieved that I survived another May. This one was more challenging than others,but alas, we prevailed. Three cheers to my wonderful family for pulling through such a trying and chaotic month.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Doctor Who
I love, love, love Doctor Who! Unfortunately, I am of a generation that didn't have access to the Doctor as children. I didn't even meet the Time Lord until his 9th incarnation, portrayed by Christopher Eccleston. I became smitten with the 9th doctor, but he didn't fully capture my heart until his 10th incarnation, portrayed by David Tennant. I honestly wasn't sure I would ever recover from the heartache of the three knocks which caused the catastrophic regeneration and tragic departure of David Tennant. In his next incarnation, Matt Smith had to work very hard to win me over as the 11th doctor, but alas he prevailed and I am more in love than ever.
For the first time in the history of the series the doctor and his companions filmed episodes on US soil. I am holding an imaginary grudge agains all people who were lucky enough to be in the Salt Lake City, UT area during the filming.
Below is a video released by the BBC to introduce the first two-part episode of the upcoming season which will air on BBC America April 23rd. Enjoy!
If you have not been privy to Doctor Who, please take some time to check it out. All five seasons of the new series, and a number of seasons from the original series, are currently available on Netflix live streaming. You can also catch re-runs on BBC America, check your local listings for times.
For the first time in the history of the series the doctor and his companions filmed episodes on US soil. I am holding an imaginary grudge agains all people who were lucky enough to be in the Salt Lake City, UT area during the filming.
Below is a video released by the BBC to introduce the first two-part episode of the upcoming season which will air on BBC America April 23rd. Enjoy!
If you have not been privy to Doctor Who, please take some time to check it out. All five seasons of the new series, and a number of seasons from the original series, are currently available on Netflix live streaming. You can also catch re-runs on BBC America, check your local listings for times.
Friday, March 4, 2011
March Forth...
Today is National Grammar Day. One of my biggest regrets in life is that I didn't pay more attention to grammar and spelling when I was younger. Writing is one of my favorite past times and I spend more time than necesary debating the correctness of my grammar. It should be second nature and it is not. It is important to me that my children excel at grammar and I love that there is a day to celebrate the importance of having a firm grasp on the rules of your language.
Happy National Grammar Day!
"March forth on March 4 to speak well, write well, and help others do the same."
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Reading Wednesday - Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss
It is almost impossible for me to tell you which Dr. Seuss book is my favorite. All day I have been reading quotes from his collection and each time I think "Ooh... I love that one!" or "Oh, I forgot about that one, wow!". I think that my favorite was ever revolving and changing.
Marvin K. Mooney Will You Please Go Now! was my favorite when I was a small child. I have vivid memories (some of my earliest) of my Dad and I laying in my bed reading this book. I was read this book so many times as a child that when it came time to read it to my kids, I didn't have to look at the pages. This was also the first book that Izzy "read" to me. She was 3 years old and she "read" every word without even one singe look at the book. It was amazing!
My other favorites only presented themselves after I had kids. Not that I didn't read and love Dr. Seuss as a child, I just see them differently as a mom. While I previously found the nonsensical words irritating, I have learned to love how important they are when teaching kids to read. The pictures in relation to the rhyming words make it easy for young readers to sound out the words and create connections that constantly expand their growing vocabulary.
Green Eggs and Ham was the first book Isobel actually read from beginning to end. She made so many new connections reading that book. It was simple enough that she had the necessary confidence to push herself, but with words she had never tried to read before. She made the connection that could, would and should all sound the same, she recognized that both know and no sound the same but are different words. As a parent, it is difficult to watch your child struggle through something as difficult as learning to read and I am not sure I would have made it though without Dr. Seuss to help me along.
The other thing I love about Dr. Seuss is that every book has a simple, kid friendly message. These messages revolve around respecting yourself, respecting others and respecting your environment. These three items are the most basic and important values a child can learn. Everything they do in life will stem from learning and understanding the importance of these three things.
Happy Birthday Dr Seuss!
Thank you for all you have done for me as both a child and a parent.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Kings Firecrackers
I am a lucky girl. I have a husband who is kind and loving, three beautiful children, a job I love (even if just for the time being) and I love where I live.
Today, Izzy participated in a jump rope clinic hosted by the Kings Firecrackers. Those of you who don't live in the area or spend a lot of time frequenting half time shows may not be aware of who the Firecrakers are... I would like to introduce you.
Today, Izzy participated in a jump rope clinic hosted by the Kings Firecrackers. Those of you who don't live in the area or spend a lot of time frequenting half time shows may not be aware of who the Firecrakers are... I would like to introduce you.
What a fantastic way to combine fun and exercise. I can honestly say that every child at the clinic had a red face by the end of the clinic. They had clearly been working hard and in the process getting just a bit healthier.
I hate Coconut...
I hate coconut... It isn't only the flavor, it is the texture. I just can't stand the feel of coconut in my mouth. The thought of it makes me throw up in my mouth a little. Yuck!
A few weeks ago, my dear friend, S, told me that she had tried Samoas for the first time this year and loved them. She had always been a beloved member of my "hate coconut" camp. However, in the fifteen years S. and I have been friends, she has never steered me wrong. So, I ordered my very first box of Samoas.
Today, Emmy and I opened that box and we tried our first Samoa. I have to say... I do not know what those Girl Scouts do with these cookies, but they are delicious. As a tried and true Coconut hater, I can honestly say these cookies break out of the coconut mold and melt in your mouth. If you are like me and refused to try Samoas because you don't like coconut... I urge you to step out of your comfort zone and take just one bite.
Girl Scouts are out at cookie booths pushing their tasty treats, check your local grocery store and buy a box of Samoas (or any of the other varieties). At only $3.50 a box, buying cookies is great way to help your local Girl Scouts (oh and did I mention the yummy cookies).
*FOLLOW UP GAME: How many times can one person use the word coconut in a single post?*
A few weeks ago, my dear friend, S, told me that she had tried Samoas for the first time this year and loved them. She had always been a beloved member of my "hate coconut" camp. However, in the fifteen years S. and I have been friends, she has never steered me wrong. So, I ordered my very first box of Samoas.
Today, Emmy and I opened that box and we tried our first Samoa. I have to say... I do not know what those Girl Scouts do with these cookies, but they are delicious. As a tried and true Coconut hater, I can honestly say these cookies break out of the coconut mold and melt in your mouth. If you are like me and refused to try Samoas because you don't like coconut... I urge you to step out of your comfort zone and take just one bite.
Girl Scouts are out at cookie booths pushing their tasty treats, check your local grocery store and buy a box of Samoas (or any of the other varieties). At only $3.50 a box, buying cookies is great way to help your local Girl Scouts (oh and did I mention the yummy cookies).
*FOLLOW UP GAME: How many times can one person use the word coconut in a single post?*
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Old 97's/Those Darlins - Southgate House, Newport, KY
I am assuming that everyone who reads this knows me, as I can't imagine that anyone would stumble across this rambling blog and actually read. So, you all know that I spent some time in my late teens and early twenties around live music. For a lot of years I saw 5 - 7 live shows a week... so, I can honestly say I have seen my fair share of live bands. Having made that perfectly clear, I also have to make clear that this was one of the best shows I have ever seen.
This was my first trip to Southgate House and I was impressed. It is an old historic house that was built around 1814 and has a crazy long history regarding its former owners and their impact on Kentucky. My favorite is that it was once the home of John Thompson, inventor of the Tommy Gun. I am totally anti-guns and all that violence jazz, but if you are going to lay claim to the invention of a gun, the Tommy Gun is the way to go. Okay, enough with the history lesson. This place sounded fantastic. The Ballroom has a great laid back feel and it is exactly the kind of place you want to see a band like the Old 97's (if you can't see them at the Bottleneck in Lawrence, KS).
Those Darlins from Murfreesboro, TN went on about 8:30 and they were exactly what an opening band should be. I have been having a hard time finding an appropriate description, they are reminiscent of old school chick pop punk with a bit of that country twang. I know I am not doing them justice, but they absolutely got the crowd going. They were so good that I am sure if they were being followed by a lesser band than the Old 97's, the crowd would have walked out. I am saying this with the utmost sincerity, if you ever have a chance to see this band, run, don't walk to the venue. They are that good.
When Old 97's took the stage I actually had a flash back. Although they have aged a bit (as we all have), you would never know it. They are just as energetic as always and I was blown away, as I always have been, by their mere presence. This band knows how to pump up a crowd like the best of them. They played a nice mix of old and new songs which made an old school fan like myself very happy. The only down side for me (which is nowhere near a real downside) is that they played a lot of songs off Fight Songs. This seemed to rile up the crowd and most of the folks were singing along (as if it is possible to not sing along to Murder (or a Heart Attack) or Jagged), but it is my least favorite of the albums... please note that being my least favorite Old 97's album is a lot like being my least favorite piece of chocolate, I still love it.
The last time I worked an Old 97's show at the Bottleneck (again, over 10 years ago), one of my friends told me that he had recently been to a show in St. Louis. He told me that the encore consisted of Rhett, a guitar, and Question. I spent the rest of that night hoping it would happen at the Bottleneck, needless to say it didn't... in fact, they didn't even play the song. Since that night I have always been a little jealous of that friend... wishing I would have been witness to Rhett, a guitar and... oh you get the picture. After the show at the Southgate House, my jealousy has faded a bit. Although I didn't get exactly what he described, they did play Question this time, so I finally got to see it live. Rhett somehow managed to break two strings during the song... if you know this song at all, you know how much talent it would take to accomplish such a feat. The point... he was rocking! They all were!
I have a slight confession to make, while I am not at all the front row kind of gal, somehow that is where I ended up for this show. So, I was lucky enough to be surrounded by some interesting fans. You know, the ones that drive around and see multiple shows in one tour. In fact, the couple next to me told me they had already seen them 4 times on this tour (I am hoping she included the January shows in the "this tour" definition). Anyway, as Rhett rocked through the night, he had a bit of an issue with his fingers, from an earlier tweet I knew it was one of those Rock Star guitar playing injuries. At some point during the show, the injury caused him to request some tape to cover his wounded digits. During the first song of the encore, which was Rhett, a guitar, but not Question, he ripped off the bandage and threw it on the ground. The second that bandage hit the ground the girl next to me (Miss. Four Shows This Tour) had her eye on the prize. A few songs later when the band exited the stage for the final time, there was a mad dash for this tape that had once covered Rhett's bleeding finger... please realize when I say a mad dash, I was not among the girls dashing. In fact, Jon and I were backing away with a mixture of disgust and awe upon our faces. Disgust because, well you know, it was a used bloody piece of tape. Awe because there are actually people who would dash for a used bloody piece of tape and finally agree to split said used bloody piece of tape (did I mention it was a used, bloody piece of tape?) and not be absolutely humiliated.
Regardless of the crazy fans fighting for bloody tape, and a number of broken strings, this show was fantastic. It was well worth the wait, but I am not going to wait another ten years to see them again.
If you want to add Those Darlins to your music catalogue you can do so at iTunes, http://www.borders.com/ or at Amazon (although I really wish you wouldn't get it at Amazon). And if you do not have the complete Old 97's catalogue (especially Hitchhike to Rhome), run right out and fill in the gaps at any of the above mentioned places (again, preferably not Amazon).
And finally, if you have the chance to see either of these bands live... do yourself a favor, get there early and stay until the last note is played. There is not a moment that should be missed from either of these bands.
Just a last little note... The Old 97's, Rhett Miller and Those Darlins are all on Twitter and Facebook... If you are one of those twitter followers (as I am) or Facebook people (again, me) you should Follow Them/Like them. You can follow me if you want, but I don't really tweet and I only recently realized that at least half of them have something to do with Old 97's, which is a humiliation all its own.
This was my first trip to Southgate House and I was impressed. It is an old historic house that was built around 1814 and has a crazy long history regarding its former owners and their impact on Kentucky. My favorite is that it was once the home of John Thompson, inventor of the Tommy Gun. I am totally anti-guns and all that violence jazz, but if you are going to lay claim to the invention of a gun, the Tommy Gun is the way to go. Okay, enough with the history lesson. This place sounded fantastic. The Ballroom has a great laid back feel and it is exactly the kind of place you want to see a band like the Old 97's (if you can't see them at the Bottleneck in Lawrence, KS).
Those Darlins from Murfreesboro, TN went on about 8:30 and they were exactly what an opening band should be. I have been having a hard time finding an appropriate description, they are reminiscent of old school chick pop punk with a bit of that country twang. I know I am not doing them justice, but they absolutely got the crowd going. They were so good that I am sure if they were being followed by a lesser band than the Old 97's, the crowd would have walked out. I am saying this with the utmost sincerity, if you ever have a chance to see this band, run, don't walk to the venue. They are that good.
When Old 97's took the stage I actually had a flash back. Although they have aged a bit (as we all have), you would never know it. They are just as energetic as always and I was blown away, as I always have been, by their mere presence. This band knows how to pump up a crowd like the best of them. They played a nice mix of old and new songs which made an old school fan like myself very happy. The only down side for me (which is nowhere near a real downside) is that they played a lot of songs off Fight Songs. This seemed to rile up the crowd and most of the folks were singing along (as if it is possible to not sing along to Murder (or a Heart Attack) or Jagged), but it is my least favorite of the albums... please note that being my least favorite Old 97's album is a lot like being my least favorite piece of chocolate, I still love it.
The last time I worked an Old 97's show at the Bottleneck (again, over 10 years ago), one of my friends told me that he had recently been to a show in St. Louis. He told me that the encore consisted of Rhett, a guitar, and Question. I spent the rest of that night hoping it would happen at the Bottleneck, needless to say it didn't... in fact, they didn't even play the song. Since that night I have always been a little jealous of that friend... wishing I would have been witness to Rhett, a guitar and... oh you get the picture. After the show at the Southgate House, my jealousy has faded a bit. Although I didn't get exactly what he described, they did play Question this time, so I finally got to see it live. Rhett somehow managed to break two strings during the song... if you know this song at all, you know how much talent it would take to accomplish such a feat. The point... he was rocking! They all were!
I have a slight confession to make, while I am not at all the front row kind of gal, somehow that is where I ended up for this show. So, I was lucky enough to be surrounded by some interesting fans. You know, the ones that drive around and see multiple shows in one tour. In fact, the couple next to me told me they had already seen them 4 times on this tour (I am hoping she included the January shows in the "this tour" definition). Anyway, as Rhett rocked through the night, he had a bit of an issue with his fingers, from an earlier tweet I knew it was one of those Rock Star guitar playing injuries. At some point during the show, the injury caused him to request some tape to cover his wounded digits. During the first song of the encore, which was Rhett, a guitar, but not Question, he ripped off the bandage and threw it on the ground. The second that bandage hit the ground the girl next to me (Miss. Four Shows This Tour) had her eye on the prize. A few songs later when the band exited the stage for the final time, there was a mad dash for this tape that had once covered Rhett's bleeding finger... please realize when I say a mad dash, I was not among the girls dashing. In fact, Jon and I were backing away with a mixture of disgust and awe upon our faces. Disgust because, well you know, it was a used bloody piece of tape. Awe because there are actually people who would dash for a used bloody piece of tape and finally agree to split said used bloody piece of tape (did I mention it was a used, bloody piece of tape?) and not be absolutely humiliated.
Regardless of the crazy fans fighting for bloody tape, and a number of broken strings, this show was fantastic. It was well worth the wait, but I am not going to wait another ten years to see them again.
If you want to add Those Darlins to your music catalogue you can do so at iTunes, http://www.borders.com/ or at Amazon (although I really wish you wouldn't get it at Amazon). And if you do not have the complete Old 97's catalogue (especially Hitchhike to Rhome), run right out and fill in the gaps at any of the above mentioned places (again, preferably not Amazon).
And finally, if you have the chance to see either of these bands live... do yourself a favor, get there early and stay until the last note is played. There is not a moment that should be missed from either of these bands.
Just a last little note... The Old 97's, Rhett Miller and Those Darlins are all on Twitter and Facebook... If you are one of those twitter followers (as I am) or Facebook people (again, me) you should Follow Them/Like them. You can follow me if you want, but I don't really tweet and I only recently realized that at least half of them have something to do with Old 97's, which is a humiliation all its own.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
No Reading Wednesday this week...
Tonight Jon and I are going to see the Old 97's at the Southgate House in Newport, KY. I have not seen them in 10 years and can't wait.
I found this on YouTube and it is one of my favorite Old 97's songs from my absolute favorite Old 97's album, Hitchhike to Rhome. As I have mentioned in previous posts, this album is one my three go to albums (and probably my favorite of those three). If I am having a bad day, I'm stressed, on a long drive or just want music in the background, this is it.
I can honestly say that there are few musicians I like to watch more than these Texas boys.
I found this on YouTube and it is one of my favorite Old 97's songs from my absolute favorite Old 97's album, Hitchhike to Rhome. As I have mentioned in previous posts, this album is one my three go to albums (and probably my favorite of those three). If I am having a bad day, I'm stressed, on a long drive or just want music in the background, this is it.
I can honestly say that there are few musicians I like to watch more than these Texas boys.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
I am sad, so very sad...
I am sad. I am very sad.
I am sad because last week Borders filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
I am sad because one of the exhibits of that document included a list of 200 Borders stores that will be closing.
I am sad because thousands of smart, intelligent, knowledgeable booksellers will be losing their jobs as soon as the liquidation of the stores is complete.
I am sad because these people will have a very hard time finding another job as a bookseller due to the reduction of brick-and-mortar bookstores.
I am sad because my children, everyone's children, will not have the access to books that they did last week.
I am sad for new authors trying to break into the business because the loss of 200 stores will impact the first print run and result in a lower advance.
I am sad for readers who will not have as many places to discover their next favorite book.
I am sad because during the first weekend of liquidation bookscan numbers for publishers as much as doubled. Sales at the closing stores are 20% off, 20%... People were lined up outside of closing stores before they opened for 20% off. They can get 40% off NYT Bestsellers and popular paperbacks everyday at every Borders. Even better, for a mere $20.00 a year, they can always get 40% off Hardcover Bestsellers, 20% off select Hardcovers and 10% off almost everything else in the store EVERYDAY. On top of that, had they shopped with the same ferocity before, they may have saved some local booksellers their jobs.
I am sad because last week Borders filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
I am sad because one of the exhibits of that document included a list of 200 Borders stores that will be closing.
I am sad because thousands of smart, intelligent, knowledgeable booksellers will be losing their jobs as soon as the liquidation of the stores is complete.
I am sad because these people will have a very hard time finding another job as a bookseller due to the reduction of brick-and-mortar bookstores.
I am sad because my children, everyone's children, will not have the access to books that they did last week.
I am sad for new authors trying to break into the business because the loss of 200 stores will impact the first print run and result in a lower advance.
I am sad for readers who will not have as many places to discover their next favorite book.
I am sad because during the first weekend of liquidation bookscan numbers for publishers as much as doubled. Sales at the closing stores are 20% off, 20%... People were lined up outside of closing stores before they opened for 20% off. They can get 40% off NYT Bestsellers and popular paperbacks everyday at every Borders. Even better, for a mere $20.00 a year, they can always get 40% off Hardcover Bestsellers, 20% off select Hardcovers and 10% off almost everything else in the store EVERYDAY. On top of that, had they shopped with the same ferocity before, they may have saved some local booksellers their jobs.
I am sad because Borders has been a significant part of my life since the day my husband became the Inventory Manager of the new Borders Superstore in Olathe, KS 12 years ago. I can't possibly count the number of Borders stores I have visited over the last 12 years. We would plan trips around visiting Borders stores, sometimes going out of our way. I love Borders and it is difficult to watch something you love struggle.
I am sad because something I love is at risk of disappearing right before my eyes. Not Borders, although as I have mentioned I do love Borders, but books. Is it possible that books will go the same way as music? Is it possible that someday people will think of books as unnecessary, even burdensome?
I am sad because my job security is questionable at best.
I am sad because it is possible that the few authors who are scraping by will have to cut back on the number of books they write. Speculation is that with 200 fewer Borders, profits for publishers and authors will decrease by 10%. We saw musicians struggle with the decline of album sales, but they had tours and merchandise that helped make up the difference. They still had a way to survive as musicians. Authors don't have that same luxury. They tour and sign books for people to buy at bookstores, without bookstores they won't even have that.
If you have any thoughts at all about books, brick-and-mortar, author's or Borders... please share. I would love to hear them, but please be gentle... after all I am sad.
What a weekend...
Have you ever had one of those weekends that just pile crap on top of crap? Well, for me this was that weekend.
It all started last week when Eli came down with a mystery fever. It wasn't strep, it wasn't the flu, but everyone, everywhere has it and it will just work itself out. Finally, on Friday, he went the whole day without a fever (since Monday night).
Saturday we headed out onto the town. We tried City BBQ for the first time, and it was the best bbq I have had since leaving Kansas. If there are any other Kansas transplants out there, you understand how impossible it is to find good bbq, but we finally stumbled across an acceptable substitute and it only took us 10 years. That was the only good thing that happened this weekend... the only good thing.
Later that day, I stopped by my local Borders, which is among the 200 closing. I stood at the door, in shock, watching the customers lined up across the store for a mere 20% discount. It was one of the saddest things I have seen in a very long time.
The next day, Izzy laid down on the couch and didn't move all morning, she then didn't eat her lunch because she "wasn't hungry." Izzy is always hungry, so we knew something was wrong. Sure enough her fever was up to 102.2. I hate this winter and I hate strep throat. It turns out that a round of penicillin wasn't enough to kill Izzy's strep and she was back at the doctor yesterday with another positive strep test. On we go to a stronger antibiotic, which will hopefully kill this blasted bacteria.
We then were visited by a local arborist who informed us that our big pine tree in front of our house was dead and needed removal. He also felt that we should trim some of those pesky branches that broke off during the ice storm. Apparently, it isn't advisable to keep the branches held up by a thin sheet of bark over your roof. Something absurd about spring storms and roof damage. So, we let them take those down as well.
Of course, while the neighborhood arborists are removing our tree and limbs, Jon is in the kids bathroom replacing the toilet. It seems that a 3, 5 and 8 year old can be a bit mean to them over time which can lead to death (of the toilet, not the kids).
Then on Monday (which in my world was part of the weekend because the kids didn't have school), Emmy hurt her arm. We have no idea how she hurt her arm, we just know that she was extremely uncomfortable. The blood curdling screams every time her arm moved was the biggest clue that something was a bit off. Rain falling outside, Jon and Izzy already at the doctor getting Izzy's strep test, I run a screaming Emmy and an extremely helpful Eli to the doctor... sending a text on the way for Jon and Izzy to wait for us. Turns out Emmy had dislocated her elbow and it had to be manipulated back into the joint. It wasn't a very pleasant experience and I wouldn't recommend you try it yourself, but the doctor did a great job and Emmy was moving her arm around instantly, good as new. However, we were told that once it happens, it can happen again easily. So, the rest of my life will be spent yelling at the older kids to not pull on Emmy's arm.
It is now Tuesday, which means the weekend is over. Clearly this means things will get better... I mean, they have to... right?!?
It all started last week when Eli came down with a mystery fever. It wasn't strep, it wasn't the flu, but everyone, everywhere has it and it will just work itself out. Finally, on Friday, he went the whole day without a fever (since Monday night).
Saturday we headed out onto the town. We tried City BBQ for the first time, and it was the best bbq I have had since leaving Kansas. If there are any other Kansas transplants out there, you understand how impossible it is to find good bbq, but we finally stumbled across an acceptable substitute and it only took us 10 years. That was the only good thing that happened this weekend... the only good thing.
Later that day, I stopped by my local Borders, which is among the 200 closing. I stood at the door, in shock, watching the customers lined up across the store for a mere 20% discount. It was one of the saddest things I have seen in a very long time.
The next day, Izzy laid down on the couch and didn't move all morning, she then didn't eat her lunch because she "wasn't hungry." Izzy is always hungry, so we knew something was wrong. Sure enough her fever was up to 102.2. I hate this winter and I hate strep throat. It turns out that a round of penicillin wasn't enough to kill Izzy's strep and she was back at the doctor yesterday with another positive strep test. On we go to a stronger antibiotic, which will hopefully kill this blasted bacteria.
We then were visited by a local arborist who informed us that our big pine tree in front of our house was dead and needed removal. He also felt that we should trim some of those pesky branches that broke off during the ice storm. Apparently, it isn't advisable to keep the branches held up by a thin sheet of bark over your roof. Something absurd about spring storms and roof damage. So, we let them take those down as well.
Of course, while the neighborhood arborists are removing our tree and limbs, Jon is in the kids bathroom replacing the toilet. It seems that a 3, 5 and 8 year old can be a bit mean to them over time which can lead to death (of the toilet, not the kids).
Then on Monday (which in my world was part of the weekend because the kids didn't have school), Emmy hurt her arm. We have no idea how she hurt her arm, we just know that she was extremely uncomfortable. The blood curdling screams every time her arm moved was the biggest clue that something was a bit off. Rain falling outside, Jon and Izzy already at the doctor getting Izzy's strep test, I run a screaming Emmy and an extremely helpful Eli to the doctor... sending a text on the way for Jon and Izzy to wait for us. Turns out Emmy had dislocated her elbow and it had to be manipulated back into the joint. It wasn't a very pleasant experience and I wouldn't recommend you try it yourself, but the doctor did a great job and Emmy was moving her arm around instantly, good as new. However, we were told that once it happens, it can happen again easily. So, the rest of my life will be spent yelling at the older kids to not pull on Emmy's arm.
It is now Tuesday, which means the weekend is over. Clearly this means things will get better... I mean, they have to... right?!?
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Reading Wednesday - Chaos Walking Trilogy
The Knife of Never Letting Go, the first book in the Chaos Walking Triology, had to fight hard to make me a fan. I read the first 5 pages of that book so many times it is pathetic. Each time I would shrug and set it back down, opting for one of my other awaiting novels. Then, one day, I had to clean my office. I will do anything to avoid cleaning my office, anything... even read a book that's opening passage is "The first thing you find out when yer dog learns to talk is that dogs don't got nothing much to say. About anything." That night, in the heat of procrastination, I read page 6 and I was hooked. Todd and Manchee, the communicative dog had won me over.
Patrick Ness has taken a classic coming of age story and given it new life. Todd, a young boy, on the cusp of becoming a man, is forced to leave everything he has ever known. In the process he meets, for the first time ever, a girl and vows to protect her. However, we learn very shortly after the introduction of Viola that she is more than capable of taking care of herself, and is as integral to Todd's survival as he is to hers. The reader will share in the struggles of these two children, as they discover the secrets of Todd's home. As the trilogy continues with The Ask and Answer and Monsters of Men, we watch as Todd and Viola struggle to do what is right verses w
hat is easy. By the end of the series Todd and Viola have been forced to grow up and through that process they learn that good and evil is not so black and white. The shades of gray are the circumstances a person is placed in and their reactions. Todd struggles with his inner demons and learns that even good people have the capacity to do evil, hateful things. However, the one thing that remains true through the entire book is that we will all do everything necessary to protect the ones we love, even at our own expense.
hat is easy. By the end of the series Todd and Viola have been forced to grow up and through that process they learn that good and evil is not so black and white. The shades of gray are the circumstances a person is placed in and their reactions. Todd struggles with his inner demons and learns that even good people have the capacity to do evil, hateful things. However, the one thing that remains true through the entire book is that we will all do everything necessary to protect the ones we love, even at our own expense.It is easy to see that the younger readers will fall in love with Todd. My Mommy's mind hopes that my son will find the strength of character to become a man as good as Todd.
While it may be difficult to get past the first 5 pages (and a talking dog), I implore you to try. These books have everything a reader could hope for in a solid YA Science Fiction trilogy.
Visit your local Borders or Borders.com to get your copy today. For you e-book enthusiasts, you can download both The Knife of Never Letting Go and The Ask and The Answer for only $7.79 and Monsters of Men for only $11.09 at the Borders E-Book store.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Please see me after class...
Today, after Emmy's class at Preschool, I was asked to stay behind. The teachers led me into the room and closed the door behind us.
"Emmy, can you tell your mommy what happened today?"
Emmy shakes her head.
"Would you like me to tell your mommy what happened today?"
Emmy shakes her head again.
"Well, one of us has to tell your mommy what happened today."
Emmy shakes her head again.
After a few minutes I learned that my darling little girl was told to go to time out for talking in circle time and decided that she didn't want to do that, so her response to her teacher was a very simple, "No".
I am very sure this will not be my last time to have a sit down talk with teachers about my darling Emmy's defiant behavior. I have so much to look forward to over the next 15 years.
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