A Cup of Ti

Reluctant Wakings

2012-03-10T06:45:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I prefer to stay warm and cozy under the covers instead of willingly greeting the day, especially on days when I have to get up for blah purposes... such as having to work retail on a Saturday. When I anticipate days like this, I plan delightful breakfasts so I have something pleasing upon waking. Today, I happily removed myself from my comforter nest upon remembering the breakfast plan: supreme pancakes* topped with cream cheese and berry syrup**. Nom nom nom. [I would never put in the effort of making such breakfasts if it were just me; thank goodness for a hungry husband!]

* A little baking powder and vanilla mixed into the pancake batter apparently makes it "supreme." 'Twas rather tasty.

** You know you can make your own by boiling your berries of choice with a little water and some sugar, right? Decadent. I tend to choose strawberries and blueberries.

Hostage Situation

2012-03-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time (this past Saturday) after racking up a larger-than-intended grocery bill, my key wouldn't come out after I unlocked the trunk to load up the purchased food items. With a little back-and-forth finagling, the key emerged and I shut the trunk, unaware that the key hole was perpendicular to its normal placement. Needless to say, once I arrived home neither the latch nor my key would release my groceries from the trunk. Images of melted ice cream, rotten broccoli and lack of breakfast for the morning danced through my head. Images of crowbar damage to the car and dollar signs for repair floated though my husband's head. We both did some intense googling while giving the car trunk the look of death. "Why don't you just put down the rear seats?" you ask. Because the latch to do so is in the trunk. Figures. An hour or so later, my husband is contorting his arm into interesting positions to wedge himself between one of the rear seats and the trunk, while having enough control of his hand and fingers to feel around and find a magical metal release in a tiny hole (a suggestion located on the world wide web). He succeeded and rescued the groceries from melted and rotten peril. My hero! Swoon. The next day we find out that to fix our poor trunk lock it would be upwards of $130. Pout. Two days later, for shits and giggles, and I put my offending key in the trunk lock and POOF it turns without problem, resetting the key to the upwards position and allowing the latch to once again do its job. I solemnly swore never to use my key in the trunk lock again and to rely solely on the latch release in the future. We did not have to spend money to make the trunk do our will. And we lived happily ever after.

Utopia

2012-03-06T05:22:00.001-08:00

A Saturday excursion brought the husband and I to the ninety-three thousand square-feet of The Oneida Community Mansion House in Oneida, New York. The mansion house was built by and home to a utopian community of three hundred members led by John Humphrey Noyes in the mid-nineteenth century, the longest-lasting community of it's sort. With Christian principles at the core, they strived to live in perfection. All material belongings belonged to the community as a whole; this also included non-material belongings such as love and children. How is free love Christian? Oh, yes, this exact outside criticism of their non mainstream relationship practices packed on the pressure and was part of the reason they voted themselves into disbandment. And what did quite a few of the members do upon this vote? Why, marry! Go figure. But, I digress. Back to their lives while their community was successful: All rooms were off public spaces so anyone could witness who was in whose room and for how long. Actual sleeping was done alone. You could not choose favorites, and if anyone suspected that you were indeed bestowing extra attention and affection upon one person in particular, you would be called out on it. Ah, yes, the reason we went: the husband was collecting research on the community to aid his research on their written mutual criticisms. While the society's goals as a whole were "Christian" and utopian, the criticisms more often included reference to bad table manners, favoritism, and less-than-stimulating conversational skills.

To live in a society where you share and share alike, (in terms of material goods and workload), would be nice. But it most certainly would not be doable at the expense of privacy and marriage. To live in an environment where every action was noted and criticized? To have your shortcomings regularly presented to you? To be under constant scrutiny? To push aside any feelings that develop towards one person? To not be allowed to bestow any extra affections on your birth child than on any other child in the community (and if you did, contact would be severed)?

Not for me, thanks. Could you live in such a society? Would you want to live in such a society?

Side note: The grounds, both buildings and surrounding land, are beyond gorgeous. The vibe is serene. The library collection is to die for, not to mention a room I didn't want to leave.

Monday Giggle

2012-03-05T07:30:00.000-08:00

{{ "Mask" by Rick Kirby
{{ Located outside Marlow Theatre
{{ Canterbury, England
{{ Summer 2006

I don't know what it is about sculpture, but it doesn't overly interest me unless it is very large and of an object that isn't normally that size.

Do you pick your nose? Would you ever pick someone else's nose? I mean, we all need a little help sometimes (though, perhaps it is best if nose-picking isn't one of those things.)

Looking Down

2012-03-04T10:26:00.003-08:00

I distinctly remember sitting atop Galeries Lafayette and looking down on the Parisian pace. What you see in this picture is a roundabout on one side of the Palais Garnier (a.k.a. Paris Opera, upper left-hand corner). It was fascinating seeing more pedestrians than automobiles (this is not the case in Southern California where it is all about getting from point A to point B as quickly as possible, and walking does not meet that end) and the ease with which the drivers pulled in and out of the traffic circle. The traffic circles in Paris amuse me so very much because lanes are not marked, there are so many entrances and exits, and at certain points there are cars going perpendicular to the rest of the traffic. The craziness of Parisian roundabouts is much more pronounced around the Arc de Triomphe than in this little traffic circle, but even in this smaller example the organized chaos was present. Pedestrians uncaring of oncoming traffic, drivers uncaring of those on foot... and yet all moving around each other with ease and lack of collision. This traffic circle was a constant flow of movement and yet there I sat above it all, still as a stone in the building I was atop. I always enjoy being removed from the hectic pace and pausing to watch it all happen, like a bird perched on a sturdy branch while all the other feathered friends are soaring where the wind commands. Being able to stop and observe the current carry the little fish along helps make being caught in the current less imprisoning. So if you have the opportunity to get on a rooftop or next to an airplane window, look down and watch the others on the go as you take a moment to just breathe. It's freeing.

Leap Day Twenty-Twelve

2012-02-29T20:02:00.001-08:00

What a great way to end the month: with an elusive twenty-ninth day of February that only shows her face once every four years. At the retail job, a customer came in celebrating her birthday. I cannot even imagine only celebrating my birthday on the actual date of my birth once every four years; I don't even celebrate my birthday on my actual birthdate most of the time as it is. I take the opportunity to do so for granted. I may give my day of birth the royal treatment this year, just so the thirteenth of June knows how much I appreciate her.

To honor this extra day in the leap year, or the mere farewell of one month as it gives way to the fresh start of another, I want to document a few highlights of February.

(One) Starting Tuesday morning by cuddling next to my husband for the fifteen glorious minutes of The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore. If you have not watched it, please do. Anytime I am daydreaming these days, I find myself hanging out in the world of this short animated film. LOVE.

(Two) Weekly dinners with great people. Our invitation and inclusion started this month and it. is. nice. Very nice. I have no words to properly describe my emotions towards this event.

(Two Point Five) Bringing dessert to one of the above-mentioned meals: home-made cream puffs. First off, the experience was unlike any other baking experience I have had. Secondly, I succeeded. My taste buds danced. I am proud.

(Three) Taking steps to bring me closer to non-hesitatingly embracing both unexpected and anticipated me-time. Baths. Coffee and people-watching. Downtown walks. *pats self on back*

Thanks for the memories, February. May March bring love, laughter and good vibrations to us all.

From My Closet

2012-02-28T07:04:00.002-08:00

This is one of my favorite dresses, but like most of my favorite pieces in the closet I have no reason to wear it. It is against dress code at the retail job, too business-y for church, too formal and inappropriate for nannying, babysitting, working out and hanging out at home. Clearly I need to make changes in my life for the sole purpose of being able to wear the things I most enjoy, or make changes in my wardrobe so I can wear things I adore in the life I currently live. Hmmm...

sweater // H&M

dress // H&M

shoes // Reaction by Kenneth Cole

watch // Fossil

location // a Los Angeles street

Oscar Party

2012-02-26T13:35:00.001-08:00

I present to you the party I wish I was hosting tonight for the Oscars, along with my uninformed opinion of the nominees.

Many of the same ideas I had for the Grammys would be incorporated into a party for the Oscars. Upon arriving at my abode, you would walk up the stairwell filled with red balloons and a photo-op stop on the first landing. Arriving at my door you'd be photographed by the paparazzi (me), applauded and handed a goody bag and champagne cocktail. Since you walked under my red balloons a half hour before the stars will start walking on the red carpet, music is playing from the nominated movies' soundtracks (or the nominated movies' trailers playing on the television). During this time there is greeting, mingling, and guessing who will take home the Oscars on provided ballots. No changing your answers once the show starts! You giggle over my decorations: confetti, balloons, many movie posters, stars with my guests' names on them and a cardboard cutout of Ryan Gosling. The celebrities start arriving on the red carpet, so we settle around the television with the first round of appetizers (for us the award show and after-party are all wrapped up in one.) While you grab a bite-size grilled cheese sandwich on a shotglass of tomato soup and I snatch a prosciutto-wrapped scallop, the cattiness and coveting begin as every celebrity's outfit is either mercilessly critiqued or adoringly applauded. Just as you are dipping a pita chip into the spinach and artichoke hummus, a passionate debate breaks out as to whether or not so-and-so's neckline was right for the dress. In between loving and hating on the outfits, the hair styles and the celebrities themselves, we compare notes on our winner predictions, again a few passionate debates break out as we defend our choices. Just as the red carpet wraps up and the show begins out comes the next round of food: veggies with dill dip, melted brie fondue with apples and bread for dipping and fancy meatballs. We cheer and boo as winners are announced and we discover our predictions to either be right on or way off, all while continuing to judge the dresses and accessories. Every commercial break I present my own awards, all old items spray-painted gold. The golden high-heel goes to the wearer of the best shoes of the evening; the golden troll goes to the best hair-do of the evening; etc. Of course, the golden barbie-doll goes to the person with the most correctly predicted winners. Long before that award at the end of the evening the desserts came out: cream puffs, chocolate-covered strawberries and a variety of cookies. Ah, an evening well enjoyed. Thanks for coming!

My predictions (based mostly on trailers-only):

Writing (Original Screenplay): Midnight in Paris

Writing (Adapted Screenplay): The Ides of March

Visual Effects: Hugo

Sound Mixing: Hugo

Sound Editing: Drive

Short Film (Live Action): no guess

Short Film (Animated): The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore

Music (Original Song): "Man or Muppet" from The Muppets (50% chance on this one! How sad if I am wrong.)

Music (Original Score): The Artist

Makeup: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Foreign Language Film: no guess

Film Editing: The Artist

Documentary Short: no guess

Documentary Feature: no guess

Directing: The Tree of Life

Costume Design: Jane Eyre

Art Direction: The Artist

Cinematography: The Tree of Life

Animated Feature Film: Rango

Actress in a Supporting Role: Octavia Spencer, The Help

Actor in a Supporting Role: Christopher Plummer, Beginners

Actress in a Leading Role: Glenn Close, Albert Nobbs

Actor in a Leading Role: George Clooney, The Descendants

Best Picture: The Tree of Life (choice influenced by the husband, I admit)

"No guess" implies that my already uninformed self is so completely uninformed about all the nominees in the category that I will not even attempt to predict. At my party though, I'd mark something for a chance to be right!

Theater Adventure

2012-02-25T14:24:00.002-08:00

The husband and I went to see a modern retelling of Othello last night, but we had to find it first. The company's website didn't give an address, just a general destination of fairgrounds. The phone number provided was merely a recording, again providing the vague location of the fairgrounds. So we went to the fairgrounds and after evaluating the five gates chose the only one that was lit up as our best bet. Once through the gate we saw the Othello sign with an arrow pointing in a general direction. We had followed another car through the gate and decided continuing to follow them would be a safe bet, since the arrow didn't really narrow down the options. This car was going ridiculously slow, obviously as uncertain about where their destination lay as were we. They did indeed lead us to an area with lots of cars, and we did spot a sign naming the theater destination. After parking the car we followed the direction of the arrow on the most recent sign, passing many lit up buildings and an auction in search of the next clue before realizing it would not any be further ahead. So we back-tracked and ran into a large group of people all questioning where they need to go for the show. I was relieved to know that we were not the only lost folks. Someone decided to check the closest door, which did indeed have a tiny Othello sign. We made it to the show! I've been to murder mystery dinner shows, but never a show that provided an adventure as a prelude. :P Can you imagine if we didn't get lucky and keep making the correct guesses? Oi! I hope their next show is easier to find, or at least better marked!

Downtown Walk

2012-02-23T13:08:00.001-08:00

I unexpectedly found myself with a few hours all to myself the other day, a concept I am still trying to accept with grace when it shows itself. I decided to go downtown, only eight minutes away it is ridiculous that my only ventures to the area in the past seven months included a haircut and happy hour. I started at the Erie Canal Museum / Visitor's Center, which I will absorb with more focus upon returning with the husband at a later date, and then walked around enjoying the architecture and inconspicuously watching downtown-ers. I felt much as I have in Europe, free to roam where I please without a time constraint nor need of car. Must do this again (as I apparently missed a lot.)

Hair

2012-02-22T13:20:00.001-08:00

My hair history is a roller coaster. I was a ballet dancer from the age of three to the age of fourteen and this meant tight buns, and buns meant length, and length went against my mom's love of my hair being short. So all school year my hair would grow and be long enough to pull into a bun for the recital in June, and the weekend after the recital my mom would take me to get my hair chopped off above the ears. Every school year picture, I look like a mushroom. No, really. A mushroom. I'll have to post a picture one day, but I digress.

Since I acquired the ability to care about my hair and make my own decisions about its appearance... it has still gone in between longish and shortish... as whenever I chop it off, I want it long and when it is long, I want to chop it off. The grass is always greener...

Well, my hair has never been as short as this here picture (source: my pinterest, emailed to me from my sister, her acquisition unknown.) But with the recent trend of pixies and my husband's love of super short hair, I've been considering it. Sister sent me this picture and her and her coworker think I could rock it... but really? I know it would look great straight from the salon when I am dolled up with makeup, but then it would never look good again.

I mean, it could, but it won't. I know this, because I know me. I wash my hair at night and let it air dry. I have never gotten into blow-drying my hair nor do I find the time doing so to be well spent. And can you imagine what this hair cut would look like the next morning? No product would do the job of making it look good; it is too short for my straightener. And, quite frankly, most days I do not wear makeup, so I would look like a twelve year old boy. (FRIENDS reference: "But I like twelve-year-old boys! No, wait, I don't mean that I like twelve-year-old boys, I mean...")

Besides. This hair style screams independent, individual, confident. I am a go-with-the-flow kinda gal. I don't like standing out. I like having the option to hide underneath my hair. And I need a style that I can air dry the night before and make pretty the next day.

It's not me, and that is something of which I am trying to be more aware. What is ME? This style does not answer that question. Thanks for the boost of confidence, sister. Sorry, dear husband. This style is not, nor will it ever, be on my head. Period.

St. Thérèse of Lisieux

2012-02-21T08:09:00.000-08:00

Twelve years ago (when I was confirmed in the American Catholic church), I was very interested in the lives of the saints. However, the internet was not my dear friend at the time and my go to resource was a ginormous tome at my grandma's house which includes the stories of each and every saint. It's an overwhelming book and while I longed to dive in, I wanted only to find the saints that had something to offer me. Instead of finding the saints that spoke to me, I kept flipping to the pages where grandiose acts were told. Fascinating as they were, they didn't speak to my teenage self.

Fast forward a dozen years and I read The Happiness Project, in which Gretchen Rubin identifies her spiritual guide as being St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Intrigued by Rubin's interest in this particular saint, I did some research and discovered that St. Thérèse of Lisieux is the most recent addition to the Doctors of the Church - an elite group of saints so named for their lives being timeless role models of applied Catholic doctrines. If only I knew about this saintly sub-category twelve years ago! So, of course, my interest in pursuing knowledge of the saints was renewed and I started with St. Thérèse of Lisieux's autobiography, The Story of a Soul (free for kindle users).

I won't lie, even after reading the foreword I was at first disappointed. I was hoping to find a real-life role model in whose footsteps I could follow to best put God's commandments into practice. Instead, I got a testimony of a young lady whose heart was turned to God from a young age and was set on joining a convent at the age of four. Her unquestioned and unadulterated love for God is enviable, but mystical and by no means relatable. To be fair, her perception of tough life events and memories of travels were interesting, and it kept me reading; thank goodness! Over a hundred pages in and I came to chapter nine, the chapter that met all my expectations. Here in chapter nine is the practical application of God's commandment to love your neighbors as does He. Here are a real person's struggles and moments of failure in the pursuit of perfection. I found the first saint story that spoke to me, that applied to me, that encouraged me to try harder, a saint in whose footprints I can follow. If that is what you also want, I encourage you to skip to chapter nine. Otherwise, keeping in mind that this is an account written on her deathbed, the rest is worth a read, as well.

“I am, I confess, far from practising what I know I should, yet the mere desire I have to do so gives me peace.”

—	St. Thérèse of Lisieux, The Story of a Soul

Forgiveness

2012-02-19T20:03:00.000-08:00

A couple Sundays ago I was teaching a lesson on forgiveness (based on Mark 2:1-12) with fifth, sixth and seventh graders. When I asked them to define forgiveness, they all raised their hands. Of course, we all know this word: forgiveness. Within a split second of the hands shooting into the air, they slowly came back down as they attempted to formulate their thoughts into words. Forgiveness. What exactly does it mean to forgive? Finally a brave soul re-raised her hand and hesitatingly stated the common saying, "To forgive is to forget." Ah, but is it?

I am of the thought that no, you do not need to forget to forgive. In fact I find choosing to forget to be unwise and a cop-out. Unwise because you need to learn from past experiences, if you do not learn then you will never grow. A cop-out because, quite frankly, it is easier to act forgiving if you do not remember the offense.

If you don't remember that she bailed on your scheduled hang-out, and then did so again, and again, and again... then you will continue being hurt by being stood up. If you don't remember that he doesn't know his own strength and you end up hurt every time the two of you rough-house, then you will be bruised (or worse) again and again and again. You need to learn not to put your faith in her to follow through on plans. You need to not get yourself into rough play if you know you will end up with injuries. However, to let it happen over and over is often easier than making changes based on learning from experience (for example the many people who refuse to leave an abusive significant other.)

Are you able to forgive if you do not forget? Yes. It is a truer forgiveness, yet much more difficult. To truly forgive someone, you don't ask for retribution, you don't throw their mistake in their face, you don't bring it up. Perhaps you stop offering your home as the location for get-togethers since something of yours ends up broken every time she comes over, but making a change is part of not forgetting. (If you forget the fact that she has broken your lamp, your door, your antique vase and your television, all on separate occasions, and keep inviting her over... *cough*) To forgive does not equate to allowing someone to hurt you, your feelings or your belongings like a broken record. To forgive means you don't ask nor expect them to pay for the items they have broken (though it is only fair and they should offer. If you forgive them, you won't accept.) To forgive means you never again bring up the time she ________. To forgive means you don't throw all their past transgressions in their face when they do something that upsets you. But it is okay to make changes in your life as a result of things that you have forgiven.

Yet, it is so hard not to bring up every time so-and-so has fallen short of your expectations in the heat of a current argument. In anger you are making a scoreboard and presenting it to them to further validate why the current transgression upsets you so much and make a point. But doing so just shows you haven't forgiven them for each of those things you just brought up. We hold on to hurt. Bad memories are often more vivid than happy ones, because negative emotions stick with us longer. This is why the happy marriage ratio is five to nine good interactions between the couple for every negative interaction. One negative experience takes that many positive experiences to bring you back to equilibrium. However, most of those positive incidents you won't remember in a week, but those arguments and criticisms you could very well remember in ten years. When someone hurts you, it stays. To forgive isn't to forget; you may never forget. You have to swallow your pride. You have to not feel the need to remind them how much they hurt you. To remember, and yet never bring it up... is so much more difficult than forgetting. To not throw their mistake back at them, that is forgiveness.

"You will know that forgiveness has begun when you recall those who hurt you and feel the power to wish them well." -Lewis B. Smedes

Me time

2012-02-16T07:27:00.000-08:00

Even if it means only being home for fifteen minutes, I often choose to come home in between jobs. One reason is that I am too lazy to pack myself a lunch in the morning and I don't want to squander money on an unhealthy appeasement. The real reason is that I am still trying to soak up every moment of possibly being in the husband's presence. After four years of having to plan to see him while we were dating, it is so nice to just... see him. Even if we are doing our own thing, merely sharing space is so. darn. nice. Of course this means that if he stuck around school after his class and isn't here when I pop home for lunch, I am disappointed. And if his class is canceled but he chooses to go work on things at school (with technology that exists there and not here) instead of wanting to be here with me, I am disappointed. And, of course, this disappointment is not okay and rather unnecessary.

Yesterday, instead of backtracking to be home for a mere fifteen minutes, I mustered enough energy to make myself a sandwich. In between jobs I ate my sandwich on my way to Starbucks, spent a glorious half-hour reading and people-watching while sipping my Mocha Frap, and then meandered my way to job numero dos.

It was relaxing. It was sans uncalled-for self-induced disappointment. It was also free because I have Starbucks gift cards. Plus, I spent less time in the car surrounded by jerky drivers. Win-win all around, yes?

THEN! I indulged in more "me time" later that evening. I used my new bath salts to take a long, hot bath while I contemplated a New York Times' crossword puzzle. When the water cooled off... I didn't get out. Oh, no. I added more warm water and stayed. And so it shall be.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

2012-02-16T06:37:00.000-08:00

The last night of our honeymoon road trip was our most honeymoon-esque evening. We stayed at the Inn at Herr Ridge, where the room was romantic and the balcony peaceful. I recommend staying here if you are in Gettysburg. The next day after a delicious breakfast, we had a grand time exploring the battlefield, grabbing lunch in town and then heading home. That word still makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. The most vivid memory of Gettysburg isn't so much the individual moments that made up our stay, but the overarching feeling of contentedness I felt sharing the experience with my now husband. We joked that our surviving seven days in a car together was a good sign we would survive marriage.

Valentine's Romance

2012-02-12T16:51:00.000-08:00

My husband is not the buy-flowers-just-because and put-lots-of-thought-into-planning-a-romantic-evening type of guy. He is romantic as heck in the day-to-day stuff though: helping with the dishes, complimenting cooked meals, inquiring as to my contentedness when I buy books with ominous titles, fetching something for me because I just got comfy with a blanket and am too lazy to get it myself, leaving the toilet seat down and dry. He appeases me by (almost) always remembering to give me a good morning peck before he leaves bed and a good night smooch before he drifts off. I prefer this little-bit-all-the-time affection over grand gestures of romance separated by vast spans of normalcy, but I am female and the occasional flower, just because, would not go amiss. He has gotten me flowers on Valentine's Days past, probably because he feels obligated to do so, and of course I swoon. Last year, however, he actually did something romantic that still warms my heart - and I don't even remember if flowers were involved.

This time last year I lived in the County of Orange and he lived in the Empire of Inland... not far by any stretch of a bird's flight, but very far in terms of the ever present southern California rush-hour traffic that made any week night ronde vous a planned event, not a mere casual get-together. For four years I was never able to call him up just because I needed a hug - time spent with each other needed to be longer than the time spent in the car for sanity - and unexpected, impromptu hangouts were non-existent. (If you are in an actual long distance relationship, good for you. I couldn't ever do it. But I digress.)

Valentine's Day was on a mundane Monday last year. The day before the hallmark holiday, we went on a delightful double-date hike and had plans to get together later in the week. I came home on Monday after a long day surrounded by elementary-aged children and I decided a shower was in order. I wrapped a towel around my wet hair just as my phone rang and I joyously answered, simply excited to hear my love's voice on this day dedicated to grandiose acts of love. He had just gotten home from work and I was gushing because he called (neither one of us are phone people; this was a romantic gesture in and of itself). Then all the sudden in the middle of his sentence he hung up. I was annoyed, but immediately distracted as someone answered the door in response to the doorbell. You probably just put two-and-two together, but I certainly didn't at the time. The guy calling from the other end of the fifty-seven freeway was actually at the front door, and there I was fresh out of the shower with a towel wrapped around my head. He has never surprised me as much as he did that evening, the only unplanned ronde vous of our dating days. I quickly pulled my hair into some semblance of order, brushed on some mascara and slipped into something cute and we went out in search of dessert without too long of a wait. I wasn't overly cute and we didn't have a reservation, but it was the sweetest surprise and one of my most precious memories of dating the man I married.

(This picture is on my phone, of a bouquet from my man. I keep it to remind me of his past romantic gestures. I still smile every time I see this picture.)

Grammy Party

2012-02-12T06:35:00.000-08:00

I do not have television channels and the majority of my friends are three thousand miles away, so I won't actually be hosting a Grammy event. (One day!) Here are some wonderful details to think about when I do host a Grammy party.

+ Line the walkway to your door with red. If you cannot do a red carpet, go for a plethora of red balloons or red streamers or red banners, etc.

+ When guests walk in the door, hand them a pretty cocktail and a goody-bag (like the duffel bags the stars get crammed with all kinds of awesome scheisse, only on a much smaller and less-expensive scale.)

+ Have a (Polaroid) camera out so anyone can be the paparazzi at the glitzy party at any given moment.

+ Decorations can include stars with the guests names, pictures of the nominees, and general glitz and glamour.

+ Provide ballots so everyone can choose who they believe will win; award for the most correct predictions!

+ If the dress code for your party was fancy, ala actually attending the Grammys, don't forget awards for the best dressed! (I like awards, can you tell?)

+ Dress Barbie dolls to go to the Grammys... using ridiculous materials like toilet paper and tin foil, not actual Barbie clothing. Make commentary about the various outfits; don't forget to blame the designers!

+ Background music, if any, should include music from the nominees (and, this year, Whitney Houston).

+ FOOD. Lots of fancy, bite-sized morsels of deliciousness.

[Side note: I just googled "Grammy" and in response was given links to grandma-related sites. I love you, Grandma, but this party isn't for you. You can come if you want, though.]

Crafty Casa: Wreath

2012-02-08T18:03:00.000-08:00

When we took down and stored our Christmas decorations, I went through withdrawal. Wanting the decorations back in place was simply the result of everything looking so BLAH sans the tree and garlands and stockings, oh my. So we took action. To replace to emptiness where the tree once stood, we bought a palm. To adorn our window, I made a non-holiday yarn-wrapped wreath. With much inspiration from yourwishcake and the ruffle accent idea from six sisters' stuff, I went for it.

The blanket in our wedding colors is a gift from my dear friend. Which is perfect since I decided our living room should be these colors; the blanket lives on our couch. The pillow cover (also in our wedding colors) is from bekorama. I decided that as much as I adore the grays and yellows and white, I wanted an additional accent color and so the wreath tied the red in with the existent white and grey. (There is more red in the room than just there... I know this possibility was giving you hives; calm down.)

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

2012-02-07T06:04:00.000-08:00

When I first purchased this book, my husband took a sudden interest in my contentedness, happiness and satisfaction. He kept asking me how I was doing and if I was okay… and then I finally realized he was asking because he saw the title of the book I was reading. I didn’t make the connection before the second chapter because, unlike my husband’s initial perception, it isn’t a self-help book for the depressed; The Happiness Project is a thought-provoking, self-realizing book written by a content, well-rounded and successful lady, Gretchen Rubin. She decided to embark on a year-long journey to improve her happiness, not because she was unhappy but because she found herself nagging a little too much and snapping a little too often and wanted self-improvement. When she started her happiness experiment, one of the critiques she received was that no one would relate, and oh-my-goodness I disagree and am pretty sure she is my kindred spirit and have been relating to her constantly as I devour her thoughts and realizations. A few quirks of hers I completely relate to: her need for “gold stars,” enjoyment of children’s literature, being a satisficer and under-buyer. If you are looking for a pick-me-up or perfectly doable changes for self-improvement in the nature of affecting those around you… pick up a copy, enjoy it the way you enjoy your favorite blog, and then visit the happiness project website to set up your own project.

My rating: Two thumbs, and two big toes, way up!

My copy: Constantly highlighting, underlining and marking things I want to come back to and further dwell upon. This book will be looking well-loved by the end of round one, but will become a book of reference once read; a keeper. And no, I won’t let you borrow this one, buy your own copy.

// picture from happiness-project.com, click for exact location //

Goodbye, Picnik

2012-02-06T06:14:00.000-08:00

Dear Picnik,

Please don't edit me out of your life. We share good times. Think of all the good things! I save every experience we share; I share your talent with the world. You make my world a more beautiful place and my memories more clear and vivid. I love that for any problem you offer an auto-fix solution, never wanting me to be dissatisfied. I adore that we can crop out our differences, and only focus on the good stuff. You adjust life's exposure and white-balance when I have a migraine. When things don't fit, you resize them so they will be just right. You are so good to me, anticipating my needs based upon my prior actions. And you know how to have fun! Oh, the fun: our evenings playing with night vision, magnifying the gritty details, cinema-scoping movie-perfect moments, pretending to exist in black and white, time-traveling to the 1960's. Remember that time you pencil sketched my portrait, then proceeded to pencil sketch everything for days on end because the result was lovely? Then you discovered that a mere doodle brought more giggles and started doodling on faces, buildings and pets. We had fun with the simple things, sticking stickers and making puzzles; this is surely a sign of contentment.

Sure, I used you; I needed you. Only you could give me the results I wanted. I know I pushed your buttons, but you wouldn't do anything for me unless I pushed and pressed. Can't we overlook my using you and pushing all your buttons? [And ALL your buttons I did press.] I know online-only relationships are difficult, but we felt so close and connected. Don't crop me out of your life now; I have come to depend upon you and truly have no idea what I will do without you.

I will always hold on to what we created together.

XoXo,

Washington, D.C.

2012-02-04T12:04:00.000-08:00

While staying with my lovely grandma in Virginia, we took the subway into D.C. with a relaxed attitude but definite goals. We walked the mall from the Capitol Building past the Washington Monument, through the WWII monument, around the reflecting pool to the Lincoln Monument, and back. Of course, I stopped to twirl on the mall's grass. We went to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History (I was excited that the hubby was excited about seeing the original Star-Spangled Banner in it's enormity) where I read every sign in the invention exhibit and he ogled over the maritime ships and laughed loudly at the propaganda posters. We read the old documents of our founding fathers in the National Archives Rotunda. The one request I made was that we stop in the Smithsonian Institution Building a.k.a. the Castle (more because I adore the building than anything inside, so I was thrilled to learn his school's campus has a similar building.) We did enjoy a taste of what each Smithsonian museum has to offer in my favorite room of the castle, which is good since we did not have time to go to all the museums on this visit. We cut through the sculpture garden, so I could show him one of the Oldenburg statues I have met in person, as well as a replica of a Parisian Metro entrance. We ate lunch at Union Station and I was a tad bummed he didn't want to shop while we were there (though I didn't actually expect it). I am excited to go back to Washington D.C. and once again share the history and vibe with my man, even though I have been there over a half dozen times in my life; D.C. is truly a place constant adventure.

Virginia

2012-02-03T05:59:00.000-08:00

On our honeymoon drive I was craving a random pit stop, much like our half-hour leg-stretching in Albuquerque on day two. Signs started bombarding us through the trees about a world wonder up ahead; signs meant to entice gullible drivers/passengers with enough suspense over the past hundred miles for them to pull over. Hi there, I'm Miss Gullible McGullison. Honestly, my expectations for something great weren't all that high, but I was craving a leg-stretching and so I somehow convinced the hubby to pull on over for The Natural Bridge. [I think the prospect of food was the true convincer.]

Hey, look, a dinosaur-riding cowboy. Schwa-eet! I mean, I don't really get it, but I am amused enough to take a picture.

Well... that was the extent of the Natural Bridge excitement. Coming from California where you can meander your way to really cool ~~shit~~ waterfalls and such on a mere whim, we weren't down for paying an arm and a leg to see the welcome sign's picture in its three dimensional form. So we looked at more pictures of the natural bridge on every item in the gift shop, gave a sigh of resignation and climbed back into the car.

At least Virginia is a much prettier sight out the car windows than were Oklahoma and Arkansas.

As we were within forty minutes of the day's destination, I noticed on the map we were going to drive through Manassas National Battlefield Park. Well now, THIS is more like an exciting and unexpected pit stop! We got out randomly, then decided to find the actual visitor's center and gather information about what exactly we were seeing. A delightful prelude for our upcoming planned battlefield tour in Gettysburg.

After we had our fill of history, we finished the drive to my grandmother's home. [I am so blessed to not only have four amazing, living grandparents, but am blessed that each has gotten quality time with the love of my life, and vice versa.] I am bummed that I didn't take more pictures with Grandma, but every moment with her is etched in my heart; she's a neat lady. Meals shared and company enjoyed, she was our home base for two nights while the hubby and I took excursions into Washington, D.C.

{179}

2012-02-01T05:24:00.000-08:00

Me: "I have a question for you. Choose your answer carefully."
[pause]
Me: "Do you want to know the location of my secret cookie stash?"
Hubby: {GASP} "HOW LONG HAS THIS BEEN GOING ON?!"

Marion, Virginia

2012-02-01T05:14:00.000-08:00

Virginia is beautiful. There are good vibrations in this state; I am always at peace looking out at the Virginia view. While I was hoping to make it (over the hill and through the woods) to grandma's house sooner, I wouldn't have traded in our stopover (where we ate bull's balls) in Amarillo, one second of the good company and times (and BBQ) in Nashville or where we stayed this night in Marion when the drive became too much for one day.

This is the Francis Marion Hotel, where a high school reunion was taking place. The retired attendees seemed to all have moved on from the charming one-street town to pursue bigger and better things, but all came back to reunite and share their stories. Some of the older men were quite the charmers, and the women were still quite the lookers. The hotel was most lovely and a little fancy. A much enjoyed stay.

Nashville, Tennessee

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned, once the husband and I crossed the state line into Tennessee the trip perked back up and, although we arrived later than polite to, my cousin and her husband welcomed us with smiles, whiskey and wine. We chatted and enjoyed the company, then slept like babies. The next morning we were given the couple-hour taste-of-Nashville tour by our most lovely hosts.

My cousins' house was one of the most delightful homes I have ever been welcomed into. Isn't the front welcoming and cozy?

In hindsight I am a little sad that we didn't stop here and get something.

Please tell me that building looks like Batman. I mean, REALLY.

Of course, we visited a honky tonk. That is a performer on a stage beyond those boots.

Best BBQ at Hog Heaven. Get the white sauce. YUM.

My cousins are so sweet and lovely. I was a little sad to say good-bye, but delighted that the hubby and I were another day closer to arriving at our very own home. We were light-hearted knowing that the expanse of the country was behind us and here on out we were taking a (comparatively) leisurely pace north towards Central New York.

Next stop: Marion, Virginia

Oklahoma & Arkansas

2012-01-30T05:16:00.000-08:00

Given our stopover in Amarillo instead of Oklahoma City, we arrived in Nashville much much later into the evening than anticipated. Luckily, my darling cousin and her husband still greeted us with open arms, whiskey and wine - which were much needed for the husband after the very rainy and very boring drive through Oklahoma and Arkansas. I am not saying those states aren't worth a visit in the future, but the drive down Interstate-40 in those states resulted in a view that bored us to tears. For twelve hours. In endless, pounding rain.

Although, before leaving Texas we did see what claimed to be the world's tallest cross. We do question the claim, though.

We also saw the most unappetizing restaurant.

And then only rain, nothingness and state-line signs.

Once we arrived in Tennessee with a welcoming view of Memphis, we rejoiced for there were now prettier things to gaze upon (and the rain no longer relentlessly pounded the roof of the car).

Next: Honky Tonks & BBQ in Nashville

Amarillo, Texas

2012-01-26T06:39:00.000-08:00

As we approached Amarillo, my hubby was quite over driving for the day... and apparently the sneaky man had secretly planned on visiting the Big Texan in Amarillo long before we left California. So, we approached Amarillo in the dying light, found us a room to crash that night, freshened up a wee bit and headed over to to Big Texan Steak Ranch.

This place was amazing, and we hadn't even entered yet. Located (as far as we could tell from the freeway) in the middle of nowhere in Texas's panhandle, I was shocked to find it was as crowded as a Las Vegas casino. We were kicking ourselves a bit for not trying to stay at the awesome hotel that was clearly part of the true Big Texan experience. Oh, well.

How did the hubby know this gem in the desert existed? What made him want to stop here for the past three states? Are you familiar with Mister Anthony Bourdain and his food challenge adventures? Yes, he stopped here. Yes, he took the food challenge: Eat a 72 ounce steak, shrimp, salad and potato in under one hour and you eat it for free; Fail the challenge and fork over the $72 for the meal. It was our lucky night; we were seated right next to the stage where such challengers are put on display. A challenger did in fact make himself known and we had entertainment during our meal. Chew, Ben, chew! Not only did we have prime seats and a challenger to watch... Ben ate every ounce and side with twenty-four minutes to spare! Success!

And while we ourselves did not attempt to eat too much steak, we were still served meal sizes big enough to feed each of us three times over. Not knowing this, we ordered an appetizer. Here is the husband holding up a Rocky Mountain oyster. (That's a bull's ball, ya'll.)

Next stop: Nashville, Tennessee (only after a long, boring drive)

Albuquerque, New Mexico

2012-01-25T06:17:00.000-08:00

We woke up before the Arizona sun with high hopes of making it to Oklahoma City before the day's end. A lofty goal, I admit. All were still asleep except my uncle who gave us a kind send off. Our day started off fascinating, with a side of Arizona I never fathomed existed.

After we made it through the enchanted side of Arizona and back to the expected desert, we found ourselves entering New Mexico. Upon noticing that we were approaching Albuquerque, I begged the hubby for a stretching of the legs and he agreed.

After exploring the adorable Albuquerque charm and getting cool beverages, we climbed back into the car and continued our venture to Oklahoma City, not yet knowing that we would instead stop in Amarillo, Texas for the night.

Phoenix, Arizona

2012-01-24T05:13:00.000-08:00

We left California after many farewells and many more hugs. Packing the car the night before was rather stressful, less due to not as much fitting in the car as we assumed would and more due to the reality of not having family close by at our destination. The stress of the latter realization was disguised by bickering over the former. So, after a last round of hugs, farewells and the sister-in-law jumping on the windshield in an attempt to keep us from leaving, we set out.

[Good-bye, California]

Upon seeing the Arizona sign at the state line, I choked back a tear. We were really leaving. I would no longer be able to see my friends and family at a moment's notice. I would only be able to hear their voices over the phone; no longer able to feel their hugs. Then I looked over at my husband - MY HUSBAND - and got giddy thinking about the adventures to come.

[Arizona]

[The husband drove all but two hours across the country.]

We made it to Phoenix, a stop chosen to visit my grandfather who was unable to attend our wedding in California. Seeing him was wonderful and knowing my grandpa had the opportunity to spend quality time with the man I love was delightful. We ate a delicious dinner in the restaurant located where Grandpa lives, and two uncles and an aunt joined us. After dinner we hung out and chatted and then we said our farewells and headed over to my uncle's house while my grandpa and my uncles played poker with others in the community. We spent a little time with my aunt and my cousin's beh-beh until they hit the hay, then my cousin, his wife, the hubby & I sat in the hot Arizona night visiting until late. I am always in awe of the heat embracing me like an unwanted hug at ten o'clock at night in Arizona.

Next: a pit-stop in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Honeymoon: Road Trip

2012-01-23T09:30:00.000-08:00

The summer of Twenty-Eleven was a bit of a (wonderful) whirlwind. On August Sixth, the fiancé and I became hubby and wifey. On August Ninth, we hopped into a loaded-down car and embarked on the drive across the country that served as both our cross-country move and honeymoon. For the next week I will be posting about our road trip, and hoping that by the end of this story I can say we are finally legally married. *fingers crossed* Granted the husband may be a little heart-broken that he can no longer inform people we "are living in sin" for shock value. Sorry for taking away your fun, Hubs, BUT I WANT TO CHANGE MY LAST NAME ALREADY. I digress. Get ready to travel across the country with us this week. :-)

Hubby saying "Good-Bye" to Frodo.

Snow Perk

2012-01-21T14:39:00.000-08:00

Snow Perk #1:
Knowing the mailman came without having to step into the coldness.

Hug N' Run

2012-01-17T18:43:00.000-08:00

With limited time, and so many people to hug, my trip to California was very scheduled:

Wednesday: Quality in-law time. (They did fly us out after all. Oh, and they are lovely.)
Picture: kitteh-in-law + me.

Thursday: Quality Mama time. Best friends time. (The whole time of course I was thinking how I want to drink tea with so-and-so, make crafts with so-and-so, go to the beach with so-and-so, etc. But, a group shindig would have to do on this trip.) Quality sister & wine time. BEST. Picture: Sister's SatC closet. *jealous*

Friday: Quality Dad & Grandparents time. Quality froyo and friend time. More quality time with Dad, Grandparents, Sister, Sister's man + the husband.

Saturday: The wedding we went to California to attend! CONGRATS SISTER #2! Picture: at the wedding.

Sunday: Goodbye, California.

Monday: Worked allll daaaay with a jet-lagged brain.

Tuesday: Cannot wait to pick up my hubby from the airport tonight! I MISS HIM!

Post-Holiday

2012-01-10T09:59:00.000-08:00

It has arrived: the calm after the storm of celebrations. Since November you were bombarded with holiday marketing. Perhaps like me, you felt the giddiness of the season flowing through your veins, but didn't acknowledge it until Thanksgiving had its fair turn. As soon as the Thanksgiving festivities ended, then and only then you allowed yourself to pounce on the Christmas season conveyor belt, being pulled along through red and green and silver and gold moments of happiness and anticipation. For at least a month you were purchasing, wrapping, decorating, baking, sending, giving and receiving. After the various events elsewhere and cozy moments in your own space, you basked. You basked in the afterglow of anticipation turned memory. You started daydreaming about what the year to come has in store. You reflected on the past year and made promises, resolutions and commitments for the upcoming year. The new year arrived and you breathed in the freshness. Nature's natural air (and mind) freshener: The New Year. You settled slowly back into reality, went back to work and took down decorations (if you hadn't already). Christmas music on the radio has now returned to current hits, television specials have returned to regular programming. You were still coasting on the wave of heightened emotions and warm, fuzzy feelings... but with each day that holiday giddiness receded. Now you are back to the daily grind, the normalcy life has to offer. The thoughts of the fresh start and the promise of change you made to yourself are still present, but the emotional connection to those feelings are less and less with each moment. You are suffering from holiday withdrawal.

Or maybe it is just me.

Trademark

2012-01-08T19:57:00.000-08:00

Ah, yes. Those late nights when you should be in bed but instead are wide awake stalking your friends on the Book of Face, coveting items on (an artist friend's) Etsy and getting inspired on (my own) Pinterest - all while your mind wanders. Right now, it is one of those nights. Oh? It is only 9:45, you say. I am an old lady, I admit. Sleep is my friend; if you get between me and my friend things will get ugly. Just ask the husband who woke me up with a flashlight when he finally came to bed the other night and received from me the most truly angry face he has ever seen me give. But, I digress. Here I am (instead of tucked into bed all comfy cozy) sharing with you what is running through my mind... *drumroll*

[Note Bene! In case the above paragraph wasn't a clear preface to this post: Reading this post is a (mildly amusing) waste of your time. Proceed at your own leisure if only you have nothing better to do.]

One of my jobs involves spending much time with three elementary-aged schoolboys. I gave them little gifts for Christmas (because they are pretty awesome) including the The Ultimate Top Secret Guide to Taking Over the World. (I am sure the parents were thrilled to hear their boys singing lyrics about world domination to the tune of common children's diddies.) There are precious few moments amongst piano practice, cello practice, sport practice, daily homework and general free time when my attention is not commanded. During such moments I am attempting to fill in the New York Times crossword puzzle... or perusing the various reading materials of adolescent males, such as the above-mentioned book from yours truly. Kenn Nesbitt is actually pretty funny and I want to give him a high-five. *cue me high-fiving a picture of him on the internet* One chapter in this world domination how-to is about choosing a trademark. Some examples he gives: Darth Vader's helmet, Hitler's mustache, Cruella de Vil's hair, Dora the Explorer's backpack. (Time out. You knew Dora was evil, right? Moving on.)

I, of course, have no intent to be evil (nor to take over the world for that matter), but thought it would be a little fun to come up with my own (less evil, more quirky) trademark. It can be a physical item (like the above-mentioned examples) or a catch-phrase (like Lauren's "awesomespice") or... something else. I think there were other options. (My late-night musings aren't always complete thoughts, yo.) Of course, I have yet to come up with anything truly me. The way I did my make-up yesterday would totally be a contender for my trademark if I wasn't too frugal to regularly purchase the items needed to make my face that pretty on a daily basis. So, back to square one. Ideas for a(n inexpensive) trademark: I got nothing. So my musings turn towards the cast of FRIENDS; let's see what they have going on for them:

Monica: neat freak, exceptionally competitive.
Chandler: jokes, sweater vests.
Joey: "How you doin'?" (You know you read that just the way he says it!), meatball sandwiches.
Ross: his general demeanor (which I cannot put into an accurate description), his way of giving folks the finger without actually giving them the finger.
Phoebe: guitar, general quirkiness.
Rachel: being hot?
Gunther: loving Rachel.

And then my train of thought ends and I have no trademark of my own to show for it. (Don't say I didn't warn you of the complete inanity of this post.) Ooh, maybe inanity could be my trademark? No, wait, a trademark should not be a repellent.

Do YOU have a trademark? Or a trademark you wish you had? SHARE!

{click picture for source. or click here.}

Zoo Moments

2012-01-05T11:39:00.000-08:00

I mentioned that the hubby got me/us zoo memberships for twenty-twelve. *happy dance* Here are some moments from our first two visits with our membership... the last visit of twenty-eleven and first visit of twenty-twelve. Don't you love animals? P.S. My favorite moment? The wolf (not pictured) paused and the husband punched his fist in the air, ala Fantastic Mr. Fox. *giggle*

Predictions

2012-01-02T19:17:00.000-08:00

A good friend once told me that what you eat on New Year's Day will determine the year to come. At the time, I had just discovered the joys of sushi and considered eating sushi to be adventurous and made sure to eat some that new year's day. (Now sushi is a staple in my life. But, I digress.) Here is what I ate New Year's Day Twenty-Twelve, and what I think it means for the year ahead:

Breakfast (at home):
Mini bagel with cream cheese and lox: Twenty-twelve will be fancy and delicious.
Champagne: Twenty-twelve will be effervescent.

Lunch (at Applebee's):
[My] Oriental Chicken Salad: Twenty-twelve will be tangy.
[Hubby's] Sante Fe Chicken Salad: Twenty-twelve will be fresh and spicy.
Actually, the Santa Fe Chicken Salad has been removed from their menu (much to the husband's chagrin), but after a quick (unbeknownst to us) check-in with the chef the darling waitress informed my husband that they could still make it for him (much to his pure unadulterated joy). So, twenty-twelve will be accommodating and unexpectedly contenting, as well.
[My] iced tea: Twenty-twelve will be refreshing.
[Hubby's] Winter Lager: Twenty-twelve will be extra wintry.

Dinner (at home):
Chicken, baked in lemon juice with thyme, rosemary and garlic: Twenty-twelve will be tender.
Brussel Sprouts: Twenty-twelve will be healthy.
Stuffing: Twenty-twelve will be comforting.

Other:
Endless cookies: Twenty-twelve will be ~~fat~~ self-indulgent.
White Cheddar Popcorn: Twenty-twelve will be ~~fat~~ delectable.
Water: Twenty-twelve will be hydrating.

So, based upon my eating habits for the first day of the year and my perception of those noms, I can expect that the year to follow will be fancy, delicious, effervescent, tangy, fresh, spicy, accommodating, contenting, unexpected, refreshing, wintry, tender, healthy, comforting, self-indulgent, delectable and hydrating. I am not sure how twenty-twelve can pull off being tender... but I had nothing better to go with for the chicken. Any suggested edits?

What did YOU eat on New Year's Day, and what do you think it means for your year to come?

Hello, 2o12

2012-01-01T00:33:00.000-08:00

Dear Twenty-Twelve,

Welcome into existence. I have some expectations of you that I would like to state for the record.

Please bring joy, peace, love & laughter to my friends and family. They are amazing people and deserve nothing but the best. I don't want to find out that you brought with you heartache and Alzheimer's. I don't want to hear you brought with you death and destruction. Your predecessor, Twenty-Eleven, brought great changes and blessings and I would like for you to follow is his footsteps. As you age, I expect to tally up the goodness of your existence, and keep the tally of sadness to a minimum. Think before you bring each new moment, and don't act unless out of love.

Thanks,
Ti

+ + +

Dear Ti,

You have some things to work on in this new year. Fresh starts are glorious things, if only you embrace them and make the most of them.

First and foremost: examine your thoughts, take notice of your expectations, evaluate what is truly important, and only focus on the things that truly matter. Your biggest flaw in the past year is not handling disappointment of unmet, subconscious expectations with any sort of grace. If you didn't realize you had the expectation, how could anyone else know? If you are disappointed because such an unknown expectation wasn't met... was it actually the fault of any other, or merely your own thoughts getting in the way of life? Slow down. Acknowledge your feelings. Evaluate your feelings. Throw away any pollution in your heart that is merely making things ugly. Go with the flow; take it as it comes. And breathe.

Of lesser importance, but still worth the effort: acknowledge more birthdays, give more thanks, write more letters, take more walks, dance more often, listen to more music, study more German, take more risks, hug more, laugh more, smile more, craft more, learn something new, get organized, drink more water, talk less, judge less, idle less, listen more.

Don't rush. Take it one day at a time, one moment at a time.

Breathe.

Goodbye, 2o11

2011-12-31T06:20:00.001-08:00

Dear Twenty-Eleven,

I will always have fond memories of you. We went through major events together. My now husband proposed. I turned the magical age of twenty-five, which means I can now proudly proclaim that I've been around a quarter-century. The husband and I said, "I will," while my feet were content in their Badgley Mischka heels. Our honeymoon was a cross-country road trip, with stops in Phoenix, Albuquerque, Amarillo, Nashville, Marion, Alexandria, Washington D.C. & Gettysburg. We settled into our first home in a new state. We found a church home. The husband started, and completed, his first semester in his PhD journey. I stage-directed the children's Christmas pageant at our new church. I started yet another blog. And, of course, there are countless moments and memories that cannot be pinpointed on a timeline, like my relationship with my sister ever growing stronger. In between the big moments, you kept yourself filled with blessings: laughter with friends, impromptu dances with the husband, dropped-jaws at deer crossing our path, successful hikes... So many blessings and joys I hope may stay in my heart always.

You were lovely while you lasted, Twenty-Eleven.

Farewell,
Ti

Gifts

2011-12-30T10:47:00.000-08:00

The reason for the season is not a filled stocking nor a gift under the tree... but the presents are fun nonetheless! This year seemed to be all about comfy & cozy... (amongst many other delightful gifts from many other lovely folks) a jacket and pajama bottoms from Mom, a crocheted blanket from Oma, the most comfy slippers, pillow & Williams Sonoma Aztec hot cocoa from the hubby.

Christmas Eve

Hot Cocoa & Snow.

Comfiest slippers for my feetsies.

Crocheted throw from Oma.

Ah, my insides are warm and fuzzy just thinking about it. My family and friends took the time to mail me some sweet joy, which were opened Christmas Eve. Christmas Day the hubby and I shared our gifts. We already made use of our new zoo memberships! Lovely. Everything (even those things not mentioned) were simply lovely. Did the holidays make you warm and cozy inside?

{11}

2011-12-28T11:34:00.000-08:00

Our first night in our brand new bed in our brand new home in a brand new state... we were fast asleep. We were fast asleep, that is until we simultaneously jumped awake having felt something run across our feet. After many half-asleep, frantic questions about whether the other person felt it... we deduced that what went under his foot and over my foot... was not a rat... but merely the other person's foot.

Holiday Highlights (Christmas 2o11)

2011-12-26T14:01:00.000-08:00

"I wish we could put some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month."

Harlan Miller

Christmas Eve:
- Basking in the lights of the Christmas tree while writing letters.
- Opening the gifts Santa (mailman) dropped into my stocking (mailbox) from friends.
- Getting freed from the retail job a wee bit earlier than expected.
- Watching Love Actually with the hubby.
- Enjoying delightful company amongst a fireplace and fancy hors d'oeuvres.
- Discovering the delightful gifts from a family Secret Santa exchange.
- Cuddling in a handmade crocheted throw from my grandmother.
- Loving talking to mi familia on the phone during the gathering I couldn't attend.
- Seeing a snapshot of my sister wearing her gift.
- Indulging with cookies.

Christmas Day:
- Savoring lox, cream cheese & bagels with champagne for breakfast.
- Exchanging gifts with the handsome husband.
- Luxuriating in my new pretty slippers.
- Christ-Mass service.
- Laughing at A Charlie Brown Christmas & It's Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown.
- Hearing the voices of my loved ones.
- Soaking up cozy Christmas goodness amongst the loveliest of folks, times two.
- Indulging with cookies.

Ti's Timeline

2011-12-21T05:19:00.000-08:00

A brief synopsis of Ti, before this blog.

1986: Born on a Friday the 13th at 9:03 a.m. in June, the same day as Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen. The number 13 will always be my lucky number... even though everyone these days associates it with Taylor Swift. I am older than you, Tay Tay! My number!

1989: Start taking ballet and tap dance classes. Aw, look at itty bitty me in ballet slippers and tights. So cute.

1996: Parents divorce summer between fourth and fifth grade. Emotions confused, but not devastated. Continue to succeed in school.

1997: Almost make district-wide spelling bee. Will never spell 'vacuum' incorrectly again.

1998: Two weeks of Pointe is my ultimate failure. If you aren't going to go up on your toes... and you don't look good in the flats... time to let it go. Adieu, ballet. Adieu.

1999: No longer a straight "A" student. First "B" received in art. Ciao, future artist endeavors. Ciao. Instead of a beautiful plaque for all A's in middle school, given a pin less than a square inch that reads "excellence" (or so they say.) Farewell, middle school. Thanks for the pin. (I guess.) Hello, high school.

2001: Deutschlehrerin skips me ahead... because German 3 conflicted with the drama class I refused to give up. This is why I continued to take German for the following six years. This is also why my Grammatik ist sehr schlecht, as the year skipped was when I would have learned the grammar...

2003: Germany tour. Mom believes it'll be my only chance to see Europe. (Ha!)

2004: Graduates high school. Did well. No honors. No special recognition. Just one of the crowd. Acquires fantastic truck from Opa. Starts college.

2005: Switches majors from theater to liberal studies, believing this will lead to a successful career in the future and not a lifetime of waitressing tables to barely make ends meet at thirty years of age. Studies abroad in Munich, Germany for a month (in the name of college credit, of course.)

2006: European tour with just graduated high schoolers to reek havoc on the English tour guide in England, Italy, France, Germany, Austria & Switzerland. Because... I could?

2007: Studies abroad in Paris, France for ten days in January... (in the name of history credits, of course.) Uses a pick-up line on the man that I will marry. Studies abroad in Munich, Germany in June. Placed into same class level as two years ago. Language acquisition apparently plateaued... but still receives needed units to major in German. Extends trip to include a long weekend in Romania and a week or so in Scotland.

2008: Graduates with a B.A. in Liberal Studies & German from a small, private liberal university in Orange, California. Still believe that I will be a successful government employee in a year. Laughing that German made it onto my degree, even though I never managed to acquire the Grammatik I skipped in high school.

2009: Graduates with my California Teaching Credential. Discovers getting a job in education in the current economy is as difficult as breaking into show business would have been. Annoyed with my accumulated student loans and lack of steady income to support paying them off... along with most recent graduates across the nation. Boyfriend & I are Bonnie & Clyde for Halloween.

2010: Substitute teaching makes me a stress-basket. Boyfriend & I are Gilligan & Mary Ann for Halloween.

2011: The boyfriend to proposes. Turns 25. Says "I will," not "I do"... for the Lutherans linguistically bind their members in marriage forever without loopholes. Sells truck. Moves to Central New York. Moves into first home not with parents/grandparents. Husband & I are Atreyu and the Childlike Empress for Halloween.

Amusing Analytics

2011-12-19T08:07:00.000-08:00

The lovely Google Analytics lets me know what search engine inquiries lead folks to my blog. Here are some of those searches that led to little ole me:

tiny and ti 2011- I am tiny. I am Ti. It is 2011. Well, I guess this is apt!

wouldn't it be lovely- Ah, you probably ended up here because of this post. Well, hi! What would make your life lovely? Or were you intending to search for "Wouldn't it be loverly?" I adore that song from My Fair Lady.

yarn giveaway- Yes, I participated in a yarn giveaway. And I won. Which means you didn't. Which probably means you are jealous. Well, you should be! My headband is AMAZING!

zoo- I adore zoos. Do you adore zoos? Let's be friends.

puppy and (food or kibble or nutrition) and (me or my or our) -dog- Um?

lovely lesbian- I like to think myself lovely. I am not a lesbian, though. Sorry, for the confusion.

pumpkin texture- Perhaps you were referring to these cookies?

drive in movie theaters in ohio- Never been there. I am not much help, am I? Oops.

fake honey- It's true. Timalo Honey is, in fact, not a real type of honey. But it kinda sounds like Tupelo Honey, which is a real honey variety!

bardak resimleri- Ich habe keine Ahnung was du gesagt hat.

[N.B. - I must credit your wishcake with the idea of sharing what Google Analytics has observed.]

Who AM I?

2011-12-08T05:21:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, I felt like I swapped places with the me still in my freshmen year of high school. No families signed up to light this week's Advent candles during church service, so the pastor volunteered the hubby and me to light the two candles. The night before, he sent us the plan. He'll call us up. I will read a bible passage. The husband will light the candles and lead a prayer. Simple. Whatever. As we walk up to the altar on Sunday morning, I start shaking. I can feel my vocal cords get shaky. My knees get shaky. My nerves are all reverberating. Really? Stage fright? To read three sentences? I haven't felt such a feeling since high school. Even then, I was a theater enthusiast, and was constantly being ridiculous for an audience. Nerves would only kick in when I had to read something to a class that I had written. Sharing anything created by me would leave me a mess. However, reading other people's writing (or acting like a deranged super hero called Wabbit Woman) didn't phase me in the least. So why did reading three sentences from the Bible send my insides all aflutter?

All day I was perplexed by this development. I mean, I was able to pull it off without sounding like I did freshmen year of high school reading poems I wrote. I was even complimented. It is a relief that I can control the sudden charge of stage fright, but the mere fact I felt it still left me replaying the scenario on a loop in my mind. I finally figured out this stage fright business irked me so much because I wasn't expecting it to happen. I wondered if I don't know myself. Am I a stranger to myself? THAT is a scary thought.

{123}

2011-12-07T19:03:00.000-08:00

Me: *wrapped in a blanket*
Hubby: "Are you cold?"
Me: "Yes. Well, no. Physically, no. Mentally, yes."
Hubby: "I know what you mean. It's the dreary day."

I'm a Winner!

2011-12-06T19:23:00.000-08:00

Woah. Does that title sound like I am tooting my own horn, or what? *toot toot* No. I am not being all into myself, but I literally am a winner! I am a winner of bloggy giveaways! Yes, you read that right. Giveaways. With an S on the end. As in more than one giveaway. WHEN DID I GET SO LUCKY?!

Okay. On November 9th, I entered this giveaway. On November 18th, I entered this giveaway. Now, let me briefly gush about the giveaway hostesses and givers. Pia is a sweet lady in Germany, whom I very much hope to one day meet. Her blog makes me all sorts of happy. Kerri currently dwells in California, and I have been rather privelegded to meet her for realsies. Her blog bestows upon me all sorts of inspiration, for both craftiness & general all-around life goodness. Alanah has an amazing Etsy shoppe here. She is a yarn wizard, says I! Vanessa sells her goodness here. She is an accessory goddess, says I! And now, I present me modeling with the beautiful wins! (By modeling, I mean "awkwardly posing.")

Left: Bow Tie Headband, $9.99

Right: Flower Bib Necklace, $17.95

I am so excited with both items. First reason simply being that I need more color in my closet. These colors are perfect for me! Lovin' cool colors (greens, blues & purples) for accessories. Also, the style (of both items) is artsy enough to be a conversation starter without being overwhelming and distracting. They don't steal the show, but compliment and make any out fit a winner. Love!

Thank you Vanessa and Alanah for crafting and adding beauty to the world (and my closet!) Thank you Pia and Kerri for hosting these lovely giveaways on your blogs. Thank you random.org for making me a winner. Twice!

Holiday Happiness

2011-12-02T10:03:00.000-08:00

The halls are decked! This being our first holiday season as a married couple, I convinced the hubby we needed a tradition. And, in my own selfishness of adoring Christmas decorations, this is the tradition I convinced him we needed: to decorate for Christmas on Thanksgiving evening once the turkey has been devoured and thanks has been given. He willingly helped me decorate! Cue the warm and fuzzy feelings.

Hancock, NH

2011-11-30T18:54:00.000-08:00

Here are the highlights of Hancock, New Hampshire (where we stayed at the Hancock Inn.) As you can imagine, we made some excursions while we were in the area. The inn was more exciting than the town, but it was all charming and endearing. We'd stay there again!

Ti on Tuesday

2011-11-29T11:56:00.000-08:00

The lovely Ashley participates in Chelsea's Ten on Tuesday, and I decided Ashley is delightful and I want to be a little bit more like her. Or, maybe I am feeling a little into myself right now & think you should know more about me. Because I am fantastic. (I mean, the district manager at my part-time job said good-bye to me a second time just so he could thank me for my energy. If that doesn't make me fantastic, then I just don't know what would.) Alright, here goes:

1. Do you wear glasses, contacts, or are you one of those perfect-eyed people?
I do wear glasses, but only when I drive. (And on the rare occasion when I go to the movies. I am thrilled I am now married, because that means no more movie first dates where I attempt to stick contacts on my eyeballs.) I am under the illusion that if I don't wear my glasses any more than I currently do, that my eyes won't get worse. So far I am four years without my eyes needing a new prescription, so perhaps I am onto something? And if you are about to comment to tell me just how disillusioned I am, please stop yourself. I am choosing disillusionment. Thanks.

2. What is the next item you are going to purchase?
Somebody's Christmas gift. No, I shall not divulge the who nor the what.

3. Have you ever watched Judge Judy or any other real court show?
Have I ever? Sure. Otherwise I wouldn't be able to tell you that I shall never intentionally do so again.

4. How do you feel about fake nails?
You know the character Janice from FRIENDS? Fake nails make me think of her. You know how Chandler's friends feel about Janice? That is how I feel about overly long fake nails! Moderate length ones do not bother me in the least, and if you want to wear them, go for it! I don't need to wear them myself because my nails are gorgeous. Neener neener neener.

5. What is your favorite sport to watch?
My husband is trying so hard to draw me into college football. Poor guy. I do like baseball, but only if my Anaheim Angels are playing. It is my goal to see the Angels play the Yankees at the stadium. Some day...

6. If you could create your own Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavor, what would it be and what would it be named?
Ever since they actually created Schweddy Balls ice cream, I no longer play this game.

7. Do you have any scars?
Yes. A camera fell on my face when I was a baby. A dog head-butted me with his teeth. You know, the usual.

8. Does your pet’s name fit them? Is there a more appropriate name?
I do not have a pet, and my hubby's pet was recently put down. (R.I.P. Frodo) But, I will talk about Frodo. Oh, poor Frodo. My husband picked the name before he picked the dog... a FEMALE German shepherd.

9. What is your favorite television show theme song?
Gilligan's Island? I Dream of Jeannie? Bewitched? The Adams Family? All TV show theme songs from the fifties & sixties?

10. What was your favorite activity on the playground?
This question shall not be answered, but instead I shall share a fragmented memory. Preschool. Nap time. Allowed to go out to play early because I was tossin' & turnin'. Bee-lined it for the play house on the playground. Stepped one foot through the threshold and out come all my school mates. So much for having the house to myself.

Zoo Moments

2011-11-26T07:53:00.000-08:00

My husband was pseudo-mad at me for not including animals on my thankful turkey. So, I present to you my favorite moments from our Monday morning at the zoo.

Giving thanks for...

2011-11-24T07:01:00.000-08:00

Elfen Visit

2011-11-18T07:57:00.000-08:00

Ghost stories always take place in the dark. This is why I am not sure the following is a ghost story. Okay, okay, to be fair, I KNOW this is not a ghost story… but it sure felt like a ghost was present! Or, better yet, a Heinzelmännchen. Yes, in fact, that makes much more sense. Silly, silly Heinzelmännchen.

Did you ever believe there were little elflike men inside the television to make it work? Or maybe I was completely alone in this childhood fantasy. Don’t judge me; just go with it. I truly believed in my childhood thoughts that little men were inside all electronics to make them work. Yes, the television, the microwave, the oven, the telephone, the car, the lawnmower… all were powered by tiny men. Think leprechauns, minus the Irishness & mischievousness. When something didn’t work, I thought the men were taking a nap… or being lazy. [Of course I also thought there really was another world on the other side of my mirror, but I digress.]

Last night, the little men in the electronics came back to me.

I was well on my way to la-la-land and, as with every good story, it was well into the night. I turned off the light in my half-asleep stumble to bed. I crawled in and just got comfy in my little comforter nest when the light flickered back on! It was dim. Then it was bright. Hubs & I looked at each other, then at the light. We watched as it suddenly had a will of its own. Perhaps this was the light’s way of doing a happy dance? Either way, the timing was rather inconvenient, as we would have much preferred some darkness at the moment. I got up to flip the switch into the on position… which stopped the flickering. I flicked the switch back to the off position… crawled back into bed… and the light started flickering between dim & bright again. Yes, the switch was still in the off position. This time, however, we noticed sound coming from behind the switch plate. This is when my little friends in the electronics came back… I was convinced a little man was behind the switch rubbing wires together to play tricks on us. With the next flicker, the switch plate actually lit up. Silly, silly Heinzelmännchen.

Needless to say, the off position made noises and made the light flicker and dance. So we found it was less annoying to leave the light on. This morning, we turned the light off and it stayed off. I guess Heinzelmännchen really do only come at night. But, he forgot to do the dishes!

Picture source: click here.

{102}

2011-11-16T05:55:00.000-08:00

Me: "I want an 'atta wife.'"
Hubby: "Hi!"
Me: "No, no, not a hello, an atta wife... like an atta boy..."
Hubby: *laughs*
Me: "There are clean sheet & pillowcases on the bed! I want an atta wife!"
Hubby: "Atta wife."
Me: *nods*

Hancock Inn

2011-11-14T05:24:00.000-08:00

My hubby & I enjoyed a weekend excursion to Hancock, New Hampshire. (This was the same weekend when we passed through the creepiest town we ever did see.) We stayed at the charming Hancock Inn with the most delightful host & hostess and sweetest pup you'll ever meet. The inn's lovely hostess was the most accommodating & sweet lady, whom I wish I had showered with more thanks. She went out of her way to please us, from an unexpected early check-in on Saturday to making sure we were fed breakfast before our early departure on Monday morning, with toll-road money in hand. Speaking of breakfast... it still makes my mouth water just thinking about it: fluffy perfect blueberry pancakes, crispy bacon and perfect eggs. Most restaurants' breakfasts fall short of the host's magic in the kitchen. They have a chef come in for weekend dinners (open to the public), but cook up breakfast (for guests) themselves every day. And now, for your picture tour:

Clockwise from top left: * Hancock Inn as it appears when strolling along the sidewalk. * The Hancock Inn sign & me. * Our bed in the "Miss Mary" room. * Potter, the inn puppy and most docile three-year old you'll ever meet.

My favorite nooks, crannies & details of the inn.

(Creepy) Jaffrey, New Hampshire

2011-11-10T05:50:00.000-08:00

The week before Halloween, and all through the town...

Dr. Seuss

2011-11-09T19:17:00.000-08:00

“We are all a little weird and life’s a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.”

—

Dr. Seuss

Just breathe (and giggle.)

2011-11-09T07:03:00.000-08:00

Monday evening took a sour turn, which carried over into Tuesday. By late afternoon on Tuesday, my day had improved. Not because the circumstances that had upset me had improved... but because I breathed in fresh air and beauty at a new found rustic park and ran around with the children with whom I work. Beauty & laughter does wonders for the soul and perspective. Sometimes, you just need to breathe (and giggle.)

Oh, Great Pumpkin, where are you?

2011-11-06T09:52:00.000-08:00

I. LOVE. PUMPKIN-FLAVORED EVERYTHING.

Nom nom nom...

Therefore, I shall share with you some treats that have made my autumn delightful & delicious.

1. Dunkin' Donuts' Pumpkin Donut

2. Pumpkin Spice Hot Tea

3. Pumpkin Caramel Latte

4. Pumpkin Spice Cake

5. Pumpkin Fudge (not pictured.)

And, now, #6... my FAVORITE-to-bake autumn treat:

CHOCOLATE-CHIP PUMPKIN COOKIES!

(Thank you, Wishcake, for introducing me to this treat in this post.)

What is your favorite holiday flavor?

Apples, Apples, Apples

2011-11-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, the hubby and I participated in a local autumn activity: apple picking. We had a blast and did things we later learned we should not have done: threw apples, dropped them into our bag, etc. Surprisingly, none of our apples were bruised. Unfortunately, we collected far too many apples: eight pounds worth.

I don't like to waste food, so I got creative. (After all, neither the hubby nor myself are apple eaters.)

1. Apple coffee cake.

2. Sliced apples & caramel sauce.

3. Apple cobbler. (Winner!)

4. Panfrittercakes.
(My attempt to make apple fritters with pancake mix. Mmmm.)

5. Apple wine. (Okay, I didn't make this. But, YUM.)

6. Stuffing with an apple!

By far, the cobbler was the winner. Sooo yummy. The coffee cake was delicious, but we were sick of eating it about halfway through. Apples in stuffing is definitely something I recommend you do at Thanksgiving this year; it was amazing with our October turkey. :)

Ti Time

2011-11-02T07:52:00.000-07:00

Age: 25 years young. Quarter century. Two and a half decades. One score and five years.
Height: 5 feet, 3 and a quarter inches (Do not short-change me that quarter!)
Weight: According to the BMI, I am simultaneously underweight & have too much fat. *blinks*

Wearing pajamas at 10:15 a.m. (Don't judge me. Well, I mean, go ahead and judge, but I will just laugh at you in your cubicle.)

Working on painting my toes purple. (Finally said goodbye to my wedding polish.)

Editing pictures from our excursion to New Hampshire two weeks ago. (Get ready for an onslaught of travel-related posts.)

Eating the rest of the apple cobbler. I want the pan empty so I can use it to make a pumpkin cake.

Excited by the fact that there are only three apples left from our apple picking excursion. (Expect a post on that shenanigan.)

Angry with bicyclists. They need to follow traffic laws and ride on the correct side of the street and STOP GIVING ME HEART ATTACKS.

Reading nothing. Just finished Barbara Kingsolver's The Poisonwood Bible - by far the best piece of published literature I have read by someone still living. Any suggestions on what I should pick up next?

Hating being on a budget, bicyclists, fruit flies & cold toes.

Loving my hubby, employee discounts, leftover Halloween candy, snail-mail, FRIENDS episodes & wedding presents just in time for our three-month anniversary.

* * *

"Ti Time" is when I dedicate a post to random "facts" about moi, Ti. I put the word facts in quotation marks because these "facts" are specific to the time when the post was written. If I say I am wearing a clown nose, you can imagine it isn't there 24/7... and probably was no longer there within an hour of my writing a Ti Time post. You see?

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T08:27:00.000-07:00

I love my husband. I love that my husband loves Halloween. I love that I MADE MY HEADPIECE (and, to some extent, the dress.) Apparently Halloween brings out the love. (If you don't understand our costumes, check out IMDB.)

*cue really fast excited talking* We went to a party this past Friday, and chose our costumes the mere Monday beforehand. I searched the mall for a white dress (after Labor Day in a town with actual seasons) much to the amusement of sales associates who tried very hard not to laugh in my face. I settled for the best of only three options, on clearance at Macy's. See the dress I am wearing? That was the STRAPLESS dress I purchased. I attacked the sides with scissors, sewed up the top corners and *POOF* I have me a boat neck dress much closer to the dress in the movie. (The *poof* was imagined. There were hours of staying up late with fabric tape and thread. I do not possess a sewing machine nor sewing skills.) The next night I grabbed some fabric glue and started pasting on sequins. Halfway through I wanted to fall asleep on my gluey sequins and wished I hadn't started that painstaking endeavor of gluing on sequins one-by-one. I did manage to sleepily persevere and finished. (I may give the evil eye to every sequin I encounter for the next month.)

Then I taped & secured the sleeves into place and proceeded onto MY HEADPIECE. (I am so excited by this HEADPIECE I must scream the word every time. Oh, that's weird? Too bad.) My pendant was meant to go on a necklace and had magnetic, changeable gems for the center. I glued a pearl in the gem's place and turned it upside down and used wire to affix a pearl to the clasp where a necklace should have been strung. I strung pearls onto wire which I slid into openings of the pendant and twisted. This means if I give the HEADPIECE to a three-year-old, they would easily pull it apart, send pearls flying everywhere & then proceed to choke on one of the pearls. Now, I would never wish this on a child & so shall refrain from selling my handiwork on Etsy. It sure LOOKS good, though... doesn't it? *contented sigh* (Oh, and our costumes received much praise! Woohoo!)

Now, I shall put on It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and drink pumpkin spice tea and be happy. Amen.

What were you for Halloween? How much effort did you put into your costume? :)

It's a White... October

2011-10-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

For some reason my California brain did not expect that snow could possibly fall while trees were still dressed in their autumn colors. Seasons are not meant to overlap. The trees lose all their leaves before the snow shows up, right? Autumn is for colorful leaves & winter is for snow, right? RIGHT?! Wrong and wrong. This I learned as I joyfully caught my first "I-live-here-and-it-is-snowing" snowflakes on my tongue at 3:45 p.m. on October 27... while staring at orange and yellow leaves (not pictured, but very much present).

{78}

2011-10-23T06:28:00.000-07:00

Hubby: "It smells like burning rubber..."

Ti: "I burnt my first pot of water."

Hubby: "I didn't think that was possible."

Ti: "It's not. The water evaporated and I burnt the tea kettle."

Hubby: *blank stare*

Ti: *pout*

N.B. No tea kettles were permanently harmed due to Ti's clumsiness. After about an hour in ICU, the kettle was free to go about its daily routine.

TiHouse - Crafty Casa

2011-10-20T10:47:00.000-07:00

Our home felt like home... the minute our landlord fixed up the things he didn't have time to fix before we got there. (Read: the giant hole in the bathroom door.) The first thing I noticed about marriage was that living with the hubby felt as though this was how our relationship was meant to feel all along. It felt natural. It felt RIGHT. Now that we are settled and home, I want our space to look like it is ours. With that sentiment, I present my (very baby steps) towards adding crafty touches to make this rented space represent us.

Welcome to our kitchen table. (I mentioned these are baby steps, so don't judge me too harshly. Thanks.) The jar is a trashcan save after we ate the delicious spaghetti sauce from Williams Sonoma. I adore the label. The flowers are from wrapping on received presents... and they compliment the label well, methinks! The scarecrow also fits a little too well with the jar and flowers; I will be sad to see him go after Thanksgiving. He needs a name...

Our first inclusion of color in our living room is yellow! Our wedding colors were yellow & grey, thus I couldn't help but squeeze some yellow into our home. Number one was a joint effort. The hubby found the stick thingamabob at Marshall's and I chose the flowers from Pier 1 Imports... and we stuck the latter into the former and the combo was perfection. Number two is not my own craftiness, but an Etsy purchase from Beckorama. SWOON. I adore them and hug them often. Number three is merely a fake flower bundle in a saved wine bottle. Again, I liked the label.

On our fridge we were using plain little circular magnets... because for some reason I had them amongst my stuff when we were unpacking. Useful, yes, but not particularly pretty. I already had a random collection of buttons... so with a mere Krazy Glue purchase, I attached the latter to the former and now our magnets are adorable. I would credit someone with this craft idea, but I have seen far too many folks sharing this craft for me to give credit to one person in particular. [p.s. Krazy Glue is evil... when it attacks each and every one of your (okay, MY) fingers. Krazy Glue is heavenly... when it fixes a falling towel rod.]

Thanksgiving in October (or... Why I ENJOY Grocery Shopping)

2011-10-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

There is a rhetorical study about internet [and Facebook] games. (I promise this is relevant to the post's title.) One theory is that people play, and play often, for the rewards embedded in the game. In which case, the [hyperbole of the] ultimate "game" would be simply clicking a button that automatically gives you thousands of points per click. You do it for the reward, even though there is no other value to the action.

I like grocery shopping. For the rewards. I feel like I am being duped by the same enticement that leads folks to waste precious minutes of life playing FarmVille. I do not play FB games; I grocery shop.

Last week, I bought $20 worth of ground beef. Because I bought $20 worth of ground beef, I also received sloppy joe sauce, hamburger helper, cola, hamburger buns, taco seasoning, tortillas & cookies for FREE. (That was four meals, yo. Not counting the meal's worth of unused meat left... that went bad on me. I learned my lesson to freeze meat when too much is purchased, let me tell you. But, I digress.) I bought four cereals for about $11, and received pancake mix, pancake syrup & eggs for FREE.

Grocery shopping is not a chore in my life. Oh, no. It is a game. A game where I navigate my cart through the various aisles, avoiding the obstacles of rampant children and grocery store employees, to locate the exact brands I need in order to earn points. Points in the form of FREE food and credit towards a free Cuisinart coffee maker.

This brings me to last night's Thanksgiving feast. I purchased a $12 Jennie-O, oven-ready, 2.5 pound turkey. I received Country Crock mashed potatoes, frozen succotash, stuffing, Dr. Pepper & cake mix for FREE. So, we had Thanksgiving last night.

We have enough sides left for the hubby to enjoy with turkey burgers / hot dogs for lunches. We have enough Turkey left to make my favorite turkey & cranberry sauce sandwiches for another dinner. And I feel like my grocery store trip was well worth the while. Not because there is food to feed my hungry hubby, but because I received FREE stuff & 7 points towards my coffee brewer. I like this game. I think I will play again next week.

(The Math of) California vs. New York

2011-10-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

Quick Math Review:

< reads ‘is less than’, the second thing listed when reading from left to right is worth more

> reads ‘is greater than’, the first thing listed when reading from left to right is worth more

= reads ‘is equal to’, both things listed come out with the same worth

Here we go…

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts < Dunkin' Donuts

Krispy Kreme donuts were exciting when they first started popping up. After all, they were the first local donut shop with a marketable personality. Their quaintness, however, cannot mask their donuts for long… and a sweet treat made TOO sweet is a good way to ruin a donut. Dunkin' Donuts provides classic, enjoyable, non-comatose-inducing deliciousness… with iced coffee to boot. Winner. New York takes a point for their donuts & coffee.

In-N-Out > Five Guys

Five Guys is delicious. Five Guys has the exact same vibe as In-N-Out… red & white tile, slightly retro, clean & crisp… minus In-N-Out’s palm trees. Five Guys has better fries, hands down. (I adore that they post where each day’s potatoes were grown.) However, In-N-Out must slip a little something-something extra in their burgers, because I just don’t crave Five Guys the way I do In-N-Out… I could easily forget Five Guys… but In-N-Out has embedded itself in my very being. In-N-Out, you win a point for California, because I just cannot shake you.

Bagel Me > Bruegger’s Bagels

Price-wise, option-wise, taste-wise… Bagel Me wins. Not to mention that I may occasionally dream of their smoothies. Bruegger’s… your hard-to-chew bagel took away from my enjoyment of the smoked salmon and cream cheese. In fact, I haven’t even bothered to print out my coupon for a FREE bagel. That’s saying something. Cali has two points to New York’s one point as we wrap up the food portion of the contest.

O.C. Fair = N.Y.S. Fair

Both fairs offer the same goodness. The difference lay in the clientele. The Orange County fair attracted a far greater crowd that defines “O.C.” by all the stereotypes. The New York State Fair attracted a far greater crowd that appeared to have never stepped foot in a city with a public transportation. Both provide delightful people-watching and good, clean fun.

Crickets < Cicadas

Crickets, those little brats that keep you annoyed as you desperately try to locate the source of their inconsistent chirps. Cicadas, those guys aren’t so bad. Yes, they sound like scary telephone-wire-electricity… but it is a constant buzzing, and therefore easy to let the buzz drop away from the focus of your attention to the background while you go on with your life. Good bug choice, New York. (3-3)

Angels Baseball = Yankees Baseball

Oh, gosh. If my husband saw that equal sign I would be in big trouble. My heart will always be a true Angels’ fan. I have always loved to hate the Yankees… and it is a dream to go to a Yankee/Angels game. Therefore, my love for the Angels is equal to my hate & respect for the Yankees. (4-4)

SoCal scenery < N.Y. scenery

Don’t let that < fool you. SoCal has amazing views, and many options. One hour west, you’ve got the ocean. Two hours east, you’ve got the mountains. Three hours southeast, you have the dessert. Breath-taking, all of them. However, I give the point to New York because it is pretty EVERYWHERE. One side effect of the next category is that things GROW. And another effect of the following category is that many of the things that grow have to adapt. And THAT MEANS REDS AND ORANGES AND YELLOWS IN THE TREES AND IT IS PRETTY AND I AM HAPPY AND I ADORE AUTUMN. *happy dance* (5-4, NY)

O.C. weather > N.Y. weather

I like weather. In fact, I adore weather. I like that Autumn here LOOKS and FEELS like Autumn, whereas Autumn in Orange County is merely a state of mind. However, there is a reason why Southern California as a much higher number of inhabitants, and it isn’t the smog. (5-5)

O.C. layout < N.Y. layout

In Orange County, the cities are all blobs of ink that started spreading and smearing and now all run into each other and are no longer distinguishable. You drive and you drive and you drive, and you go through city after city after city. In Central New York it is VERY easy to escape the city and see nothing but autumn-colored leaves every which way. I like that. In the city, it is city. Outside the city, it is not city. (6-5, NY)

Snail-Mail

My favorite thing about New York, though... is that my friends & I are trying to keep the USPS afloat with our business. I adore receiving snail-mail... and that is one perk to moving across the country. :)

ephemeral sight

2011-10-11T18:39:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it be lovely to be acknowledged as my husband's wife?

2011-10-10T12:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Ti,

We would like to inform you, that contrary to your assumptions, you are, in fact, not (yet) married.

Best Wishes,

County Clerk

* * *

EXCUSE YOU?! I am pretty darn sure that two months ago I wore a white wedding dress, walked down the aisle and made vows in front of 100+ people to my love. In fact, I KNOW this happened because I have pictures and witnesses. (Not to mention that I am a sane human being and my memories are not mere figments of my imagination.) The wedding license was signed by all required to do so, and I was informed that the envelope with this valuable proof was sent off within four days of the marriage.

Now, do I know without a doubt that the person who sent it off applied postage and a return address? No. (Do I know without a doubt that a rogue cabal did not drill the concrete around the very mailbox into which the sender dropped the envelope and load said mailbox into a semi and drive it across the border where it was traded to a mafia in exchange for drugs? No. Do I know without a doubt that a mailman did not get nosy and peek to see who married and then destroyed the evidence of his illegally opening up mail that did not contain his name? No.) However, I would say it is unlikely.

A wedding license is good for ninety days – my initial freak out included thinking: This letter informing me that our license was not received (NOT RECEIVED?! WHERE IS IT?!) took three weeks to get to us. Which leaves ONE WEEK before it is expired. What if it expires and they did not receive and process our marriage by the expiration… and we have to pay all of the fees all over again to get a new license and remarry at a courthouse and the government thinks we’ve been married two-and-a-half months less than we really have been AND THAT IS JUST NOT OKAY BECAUSE I SAY SO.

Luckily, the expiration date is not a process-by date. It is a marry-by date. And marry by the expiration, we indeed did do. So while we will not have to start from scratch, there is of course a “convenience fee” for receiving a second copy and having our pastor sign his name once again. Fiddle-dee-dee! I am giving them a fortnight to find our license before I fork over more money – because doing so is not convenient, despite what they call the fee.

I just want to change my name already.

ephemeral sight

2011-10-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it be lovely if I wasn't socially awkward?

2011-10-02T17:11:00.000-07:00

“Here’s my number if you want a break from studying to go get coffee or something…”

Oh, sweet mercy. She thinks I am hitting on her right now. She knows I am married; she met my husband… but I am pretty sure my attempt to make a friend just made me look like a lesbian. ARG.

* * *

I, Ti, have been blissfully married four days shy of two months; three days after our wedding we moved from the west coast to the east coast so the hubby, Se, can pursue his PhD. (Smarty pants.)

A cross-country move is a big deal. A cross-country move is a bigger deal when you are leaving Southern California (where the word ‘weather’ means a slight gradation of change from eighty degrees and sunny in summer to sixty degrees and partly-cloudy in winter) to Central New York (where ‘weather’ is an actual concept.) Snow?! What is this word ‘snow’ of which you speak? Fifty degrees is the HIGH today?; it was just seventy degrees YESTERDAY! Oh, snap… the flip-flops I have lived in year-round for the past five years are NOT going to cut it anymore. (Actually, I only own one pair of shoes that does not result in soaking wet feet by the end of a rainy day and they do NOT keep my feet warm. But, I digress.)

This adventure will be wonderful, but it has its challenges. My main challenge and goal at the moment: MAKE FRIENDS. For Se this is not an issue, as he is a social chameleon and gets along with EVERY SINGLE HUMAN BEING HE HAS EVER MET. *cue the jealousy* He also has the whole attending-a-university-aspect on his side, where being surrounded by folks within a decade of your age is a given. My regular social situations include…

-my current means of income: nanny to three elementary-aged school children.

-church: members of our denomination, bless their hearts, are not oft under the age of forty or over the age of ten.

Randomly, there is one gal at church that falls within five years of my age. And now she probably thinks I want to date her behind my husband’s back. Good job, Ti. *facepalm*

- - -

21.10.2011 UPDATE: She didn't think I was trying to get a date. *phew* And we have hung out a couple times. And, dare I say it, I HAVE A LOCAL FRIEND. *happy dance*