The guys from BGEHome came yesterday and installed my new HVAC system. It's a little bigger than the old system, I hope the HOA doesn't complain (I have a fenced in back yard so what do they care anyway, right?). They also installed a programmable thermostat. I'm sure that will be much more useful in the wintertime, but it's fun to play with now. I think I'm so used to it being hot in my house I got cold when it was still 78 degrees! Needless to say, I slept very well last night. Kitty did too. Although I had to kick her out this morning since she was scratching my bed. I guess I'll have to get some stuff for that. I don't mind her on the bed, I just mind when she uses it for a scratching post--and completely ignores the other three scratchers I have in the bedroom! Time to pull out some catnip for them I guess. That sort of helps.
Not much going on this week. Tomorrow I'm going to work in the yard until I'm tired or it's too hot, and then I'm going to go into my cool house and clean up the basement. Yeah, one of those goals I blogged about but haven't done much with. It's been too hot in my house. Yeah, that's it. Too hot.
The other good news is that tonight I have a handyman coming over to fix my garbage disposal. We're just going to replace it, it's really not worth it to me to try to fix it at this point. I came home from vacation and it wouldn't turn on. So I've been living with it for three weeks because I just couldn't get myself motivated enough to take care of it. So I'll be able to cook again--don't ask me why I couldn't cook just because my garbage disposal wasn't working--it has something to do with not being able to put the vegetable scraps down the sink. Someday I'm going to have to figure out how to put a compost heap together. Yes, I've read the instructions online, but it just seems like a bother to get it started. And then take care of it. I don't have a garden at the moment anyway.
I also managed to make myself call the doctor. I have an appt next Friday morning. I've been getting all sorts of things taken care of this week. Yay for me!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
A Day of Remembrance
July 23, 1982
A day I don't even remember. I was in transition between Jr High and High School (we had 3-year schools, elementary included 6th grade), going from being the top of the class to being nothing at all. I worked at the movie theater that summer, the same one my Dad and two of my brothers worked at. Lots of popcorn to be had. And there was a cute boy too, but I no longer remember his name.
This is the day that Vic Morrow lost his life. He was the star of the first segment of The Twilight Zone movie. The director decided to do this really stupid stunt with the real actors instead of stunt people. Vic and the two children he was carrying were killed by a helicopter in a tragic accident.
Why is this important to me now? Well, Vic Morrow was one of the two stars of Combat! which is my current focus. In trying to find out everything I could about the show, I found out a lot about its two stars, Vic and Rick Jason (I had an earlier post about Rick). I somehow managed to fall for this guy who was always the underdog, always cast as the villain. Except for in Combat! where he got to be the guy everyone turned to whenever they needed something.
His fellow actors always described him as a very generous, giving actor. They all loved to work with him. The producers of the show not so much, since Vic had a tendency to do what needed to be done on the episodes he directed, no matter how long it took. He was apparently quite difficult for the management to handle. But he watched out for his fellow actors and used his power for good. (I got most of this from the combatfan.com website, but there are articles and commentaries on the DVD's and other things out there too.)
It's probably a very idealistic fantasy that I've produced about him, romanticising someone who can't defend himself anymore.
It just makes me sad that I missed out on many of the Combat! actors--at least three of them are gone now--just because it took me so long to find them. Not that I even knew what I was missing.
And the movie Vic died for wasn't even that good.
But 5 seasons of Combat! surely were. Love you, Vic, wherever you might be.
A day I don't even remember. I was in transition between Jr High and High School (we had 3-year schools, elementary included 6th grade), going from being the top of the class to being nothing at all. I worked at the movie theater that summer, the same one my Dad and two of my brothers worked at. Lots of popcorn to be had. And there was a cute boy too, but I no longer remember his name.
This is the day that Vic Morrow lost his life. He was the star of the first segment of The Twilight Zone movie. The director decided to do this really stupid stunt with the real actors instead of stunt people. Vic and the two children he was carrying were killed by a helicopter in a tragic accident.
Why is this important to me now? Well, Vic Morrow was one of the two stars of Combat! which is my current focus. In trying to find out everything I could about the show, I found out a lot about its two stars, Vic and Rick Jason (I had an earlier post about Rick). I somehow managed to fall for this guy who was always the underdog, always cast as the villain. Except for in Combat! where he got to be the guy everyone turned to whenever they needed something.His fellow actors always described him as a very generous, giving actor. They all loved to work with him. The producers of the show not so much, since Vic had a tendency to do what needed to be done on the episodes he directed, no matter how long it took. He was apparently quite difficult for the management to handle. But he watched out for his fellow actors and used his power for good. (I got most of this from the combatfan.com website, but there are articles and commentaries on the DVD's and other things out there too.)
It's probably a very idealistic fantasy that I've produced about him, romanticising someone who can't defend himself anymore.
It just makes me sad that I missed out on many of the Combat! actors--at least three of them are gone now--just because it took me so long to find them. Not that I even knew what I was missing.
And the movie Vic died for wasn't even that good.
But 5 seasons of Combat! surely were. Love you, Vic, wherever you might be.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Incidents
My life seems to be a series of incidents lately. Let me fill you in...
The Kitty Incident
Yesterday morning I let Kitty out as I am wont to do when the weather is nice. Because it was nice I had the windows open. About ten minutes after letting her out, I heard the distinct noise of two cats tangling, then the mournful sound of a cat crying. I hurried outside, then around my house and down the street. Kitty has tangled with one of the neighborhood cats before, so I wasn't surprised to see the grey cat slinking away. Kitty came out from underneath one of the cars, and allowed me to pick her up, although she was hissing and claws were extended. She really hates that other cat. Both were fine, though, no visible damage. I made Kitty stay inside the rest of the day, though.
The Harry Incident
My friend Shannon and I went to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince on Saturday morning. We went to a 10:45 show, then to lunch afterwards. I really enjoyed the movie, I felt it was faithful to the book even though there's no way all the stuff from the book could be put in the movie. It occured to me that Harry and his friends followed the same basic principle that is encouraged in my church--no dating until 16. Ok, so maybe there was some dating before that in the books (Harry and Cho and Valentines Day anyone?), but there's definitely some hormones raging in the 6th year. It was very cute, I thought, and very well done. I also liked that it got the PG rating again. Not a lot of violence, though there is a lot of sadness at the end (and I won't spoil it if you haven't read the books). I prepared for the movie by watching all the previous movies, and now I've decided to re-read books 5, 6, and 7. Just because. I find if I read a book right before the movie, I don't enjoy the movie as much. I spend the whole time going "they missed that, they didn't put that in." So now it's time to re-read the book for my comparison:D
The Air Conditioning Incident
My air conditioning is broken. It broke before I went on vacation, actually, but I really didn't have time to deal with it then. So I waited until I got back home. I called BGEHome, mostly on the recommendations of several friends, and they were very good. The repairman came out, looked everything over, and told me I could replace the coil (the part that is broken), or I could just replace the whole system. Given that after January 2010 I will no longer be able to get parts for the 10-year-old system, and that it's about $1700 to just replace the coil, I decided to bite the bullet and get a new system. The salesman came over, measured everything, and on Thursday this week I get a new HP/AC system. Should be a lot cheaper for my electricity, I get a tax rebate, and a new programable thermostat. Never did get around to installing the one I bought at Home Depot last December. Oh well, don't have to worry about it now. In the meantime, they loaned me a window AC unit that keeps me nice and cool during the night. Kitty's not sure what to make of it, though.
The "Savior of the World" Incident
My friend and his daughter were in a production of "The Savior of the World" in Silver Spring Stake. It was really good. They both did fabulous, and I even got to sit by his wife and 4-year-old son for the performance. I love being able to go to things like this.
Well, that's all I can think of for now. Hope things are going well for you!
The Kitty Incident
Yesterday morning I let Kitty out as I am wont to do when the weather is nice. Because it was nice I had the windows open. About ten minutes after letting her out, I heard the distinct noise of two cats tangling, then the mournful sound of a cat crying. I hurried outside, then around my house and down the street. Kitty has tangled with one of the neighborhood cats before, so I wasn't surprised to see the grey cat slinking away. Kitty came out from underneath one of the cars, and allowed me to pick her up, although she was hissing and claws were extended. She really hates that other cat. Both were fine, though, no visible damage. I made Kitty stay inside the rest of the day, though.
The Harry Incident
My friend Shannon and I went to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince on Saturday morning. We went to a 10:45 show, then to lunch afterwards. I really enjoyed the movie, I felt it was faithful to the book even though there's no way all the stuff from the book could be put in the movie. It occured to me that Harry and his friends followed the same basic principle that is encouraged in my church--no dating until 16. Ok, so maybe there was some dating before that in the books (Harry and Cho and Valentines Day anyone?), but there's definitely some hormones raging in the 6th year. It was very cute, I thought, and very well done. I also liked that it got the PG rating again. Not a lot of violence, though there is a lot of sadness at the end (and I won't spoil it if you haven't read the books). I prepared for the movie by watching all the previous movies, and now I've decided to re-read books 5, 6, and 7. Just because. I find if I read a book right before the movie, I don't enjoy the movie as much. I spend the whole time going "they missed that, they didn't put that in." So now it's time to re-read the book for my comparison:D
The Air Conditioning Incident
My air conditioning is broken. It broke before I went on vacation, actually, but I really didn't have time to deal with it then. So I waited until I got back home. I called BGEHome, mostly on the recommendations of several friends, and they were very good. The repairman came out, looked everything over, and told me I could replace the coil (the part that is broken), or I could just replace the whole system. Given that after January 2010 I will no longer be able to get parts for the 10-year-old system, and that it's about $1700 to just replace the coil, I decided to bite the bullet and get a new system. The salesman came over, measured everything, and on Thursday this week I get a new HP/AC system. Should be a lot cheaper for my electricity, I get a tax rebate, and a new programable thermostat. Never did get around to installing the one I bought at Home Depot last December. Oh well, don't have to worry about it now. In the meantime, they loaned me a window AC unit that keeps me nice and cool during the night. Kitty's not sure what to make of it, though.
The "Savior of the World" Incident
My friend and his daughter were in a production of "The Savior of the World" in Silver Spring Stake. It was really good. They both did fabulous, and I even got to sit by his wife and 4-year-old son for the performance. I love being able to go to things like this.
Well, that's all I can think of for now. Hope things are going well for you!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Goals
Kristen inspired me with blogging about her goals, so here are mine.
I've created a few over the last several weeks to replace the ones I haven't been working on from New Years (and prior to New Years). A lot of this has come with the realization that I'm where I want to be, doing what I want to do--so now what? I no longer have major responsibilities at church (for me, showing up every Sunday and playing with small children is not major, its fun), work is going well (except for that I'm really, really tired of writing documents, reading documents, and going to endless meetings discussing said documents), and even my tv schedule has calmed down. Like I said, now what?
The big, over-arching goal is to put my house in order. I've been letting a lot of things slip for far too long for me to want to admit. So now it's time to put the house, the yard, and me in order.
For the house, I intend to go through every room, spend at least a half hour at a time until it's straight. I may have to have a yard sale or several trips to Goodwill/Salvation Army when I'm done.
For the yard, I really need to get the weeds out of the back yard. My wonderful patio from last year is kind of lost with all the greenery. So evenings and Saturday mornings I need to spend some time out there.
For me, I'm going with lifestyle changes. I'm taking a break from Weight Watchers right now--I had to admit to myself that I haven't been following the program for probably a year, and if I'm not going to follow it, I need to not pay for it. So I'm going with morning walks for exercise and watching my portion sizes--but I'm also not restricting what foods I'm allowed to eat. I'm going for healthier foods, but eating a 4-oz bag of my favorite potato chips is not 'forbidden' anymore. I think this will help me not have to eat the 10-oz bag just to satisfy the craving. We'll see.
Along with all of this is getting my financials under control. I still struggle with buying whatever I want when I want it, instead of budgeting properly and getting what I want when I can afford it--and by that time maybe it's not something I really want after all. Today, of course, I found out that I need to get my air conditioner/heat pump replaced. That should be fun.
Wish me luck!
I've created a few over the last several weeks to replace the ones I haven't been working on from New Years (and prior to New Years). A lot of this has come with the realization that I'm where I want to be, doing what I want to do--so now what? I no longer have major responsibilities at church (for me, showing up every Sunday and playing with small children is not major, its fun), work is going well (except for that I'm really, really tired of writing documents, reading documents, and going to endless meetings discussing said documents), and even my tv schedule has calmed down. Like I said, now what?
The big, over-arching goal is to put my house in order. I've been letting a lot of things slip for far too long for me to want to admit. So now it's time to put the house, the yard, and me in order.
For the house, I intend to go through every room, spend at least a half hour at a time until it's straight. I may have to have a yard sale or several trips to Goodwill/Salvation Army when I'm done.
For the yard, I really need to get the weeds out of the back yard. My wonderful patio from last year is kind of lost with all the greenery. So evenings and Saturday mornings I need to spend some time out there.
For me, I'm going with lifestyle changes. I'm taking a break from Weight Watchers right now--I had to admit to myself that I haven't been following the program for probably a year, and if I'm not going to follow it, I need to not pay for it. So I'm going with morning walks for exercise and watching my portion sizes--but I'm also not restricting what foods I'm allowed to eat. I'm going for healthier foods, but eating a 4-oz bag of my favorite potato chips is not 'forbidden' anymore. I think this will help me not have to eat the 10-oz bag just to satisfy the craving. We'll see.
Along with all of this is getting my financials under control. I still struggle with buying whatever I want when I want it, instead of budgeting properly and getting what I want when I can afford it--and by that time maybe it's not something I really want after all. Today, of course, I found out that I need to get my air conditioner/heat pump replaced. That should be fun.
Wish me luck!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
July... what happened to June?
Greetings,
So I'm finally comnig back to the blog after a bit of an absence. I went on vacation for two weeks, and of course couldn't be bothered to blog, although I facebooked quite a bit. And went through my email. After all that I was kind of tired so I would go to bed.
I spent the first part of my vacation actually working. We had a meeting for my satellite mission in Redondo Beach, California. We stayed at the Portofino Hotel and Yacht Club. I would just like to say that if I am ever in a position to have a honeymoon, this place is on that List. It was fabulous. My room faced the harbor, and the seals would come in at all hours and bark for us. I loved it. Many people did not like to hear the seals, but I did. I even caved and bought the seal they left on my bed each night (a stuffed one). My excuse is that part of the proceeds goes to help the seals. It was wonderfully relaxing--I think I spent most of my time there (when I wasn't at my meeting) sleeping!
My sister Dus picked me up on the last day of the meeting, and we went to her house. Apartment. Whatever. It's cute and small and absolutely stuffed with books and movies. My kind of place. We watched a lot of movies, mostly on DVD. She had quite a few I hadn't seen. We also went to the movies. We saw The Proposal at the Arc Light in Hollywood. I absolutley adore that movie theater. Apparently there's opportunity to see tv and movie stars there, although there weren't any that day. Afterwards we went to The Grove--kind of an outdoor shopping mall. I got the cutest skirts! I wore one on Sunday, I may wear the other this coming weekend. We also went to see UP. I really liked this one too (see reviews to the side). This was in a normal, AMC theater, though. I had some passes, so it was free for us :)
After about 5 days of movie overload, we got back in Dus's Honda CRV (it wants to be silver but it's only aluminum) and drove to Southern Utah. We met up with our sis Beckie on the way, in Barstow, and took Malena with us for a while. We switched kids at a rest stop and had Bonnie the rest of the way. We even ran into a thunderstorm. In Las Vegas. 400 miles of empty desert and where does it rain? Where there's the most traffic, of course!
The purpose of this trip was to go to our family's very first Andersen Family reunion. My dad and his kids. All 9 of us. Well, 8. Mike didn't come. We found out when we got there that he had a job interview on that day, and since he's been out of work for over a year (just temp stuff, really), it was a good thing. Two brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law weren't able to make it, and I do have a couple nieces on missions, but for the most part everyone was there, at least for part of the time. Even the great-grand-kids were there! Ok, so there's only two of them (so far!), so it wasn't too hard, but it was so great to see everyone! yes, I have pictures, but not with me! I took a lot of casual shots.
The first full day there (Thursday) we went up to Zion's Canyon. They've closed the canyon to traffic and will now make you take a tram all the way up and back. It was so cool that my whole family took up an entire bus all by itself! Ok, there were like 4 people there that we weren't related to, but it was great. Collin made me sit by him (he's Beckie's 4-year-old), which of course I was happy to do. As we rode up, I got that special feeling in my heart that I only get when I'm surrounded by my family. I love them so much.
We were supposed to go to the temple that evening, but only three of my sisters made it. I think one of the things that really worked was that everything was optional. One major activity was planned per day, meals were assigned to family members, and everything was kept low key.
The next day (Saturday) we went to Overton, NV, where my Mom is buried. We went to the cemetary, then drove around to various places. It was sooo hot!! Dry heat my foot--after 110 degrees it doesn't matter if there's humidity there or not. My head got sunburned! I felt kind of bad for Nancy tho, my dad's second wife. She came, and she was a sport, but she really isn't a part of our family. Having us ask Dad about Mom and how they met and stuff, that had to be hard for her.
That night we had our 'family meeting' where some things were decided, but Kathy suggested we all go around the circle and tell what's going on in our lives. It was fun. Afterwards I stayed to watch Bolt in my brother Glen's back yard. I hadn't seen it before, and I really liked it.
Sunday some families had to return to their homes, but some of us stayed for church and a final dinner. I was about burned out, so when Dus was ready to leave I went with her (we were staying at a time-share in St George--Glen lives in Ivins, over the hill from St George to the West).
Monday Dus and I went with Kathy and her kids to go Letterboxing. Thats' this thing, kind of like GPS cacheing, only older. Someone will leave a box with a book and a stamp (usually home made) somewhere near where they live, then post directions on how to find it on letterboxing.com. Then other people go find the boxes and put their stamps in the book and put the letter box's stamp in their books. Kathy let me use one of her stamps (she has a big one and a small one) and a blank piece of paper. We found two stamps around St George. It's a good way for someone to give a little background on their territory to someone else. It was alot of fun. I'm thinking maybe I know what to give Kathy for her birthday (now that it's past--oops!)
Dus and I finally returned to her apt in CA, and the next day she dropped me off at LAX. It was a good trip, but I was ready to come home. Kitty was happy to see me, too. I think. She hasn't scratched me yet, so that's a good sign.
I'll try to get some pictures up soon, I promise!
So I'm finally comnig back to the blog after a bit of an absence. I went on vacation for two weeks, and of course couldn't be bothered to blog, although I facebooked quite a bit. And went through my email. After all that I was kind of tired so I would go to bed.
I spent the first part of my vacation actually working. We had a meeting for my satellite mission in Redondo Beach, California. We stayed at the Portofino Hotel and Yacht Club. I would just like to say that if I am ever in a position to have a honeymoon, this place is on that List. It was fabulous. My room faced the harbor, and the seals would come in at all hours and bark for us. I loved it. Many people did not like to hear the seals, but I did. I even caved and bought the seal they left on my bed each night (a stuffed one). My excuse is that part of the proceeds goes to help the seals. It was wonderfully relaxing--I think I spent most of my time there (when I wasn't at my meeting) sleeping!
My sister Dus picked me up on the last day of the meeting, and we went to her house. Apartment. Whatever. It's cute and small and absolutely stuffed with books and movies. My kind of place. We watched a lot of movies, mostly on DVD. She had quite a few I hadn't seen. We also went to the movies. We saw The Proposal at the Arc Light in Hollywood. I absolutley adore that movie theater. Apparently there's opportunity to see tv and movie stars there, although there weren't any that day. Afterwards we went to The Grove--kind of an outdoor shopping mall. I got the cutest skirts! I wore one on Sunday, I may wear the other this coming weekend. We also went to see UP. I really liked this one too (see reviews to the side). This was in a normal, AMC theater, though. I had some passes, so it was free for us :)
After about 5 days of movie overload, we got back in Dus's Honda CRV (it wants to be silver but it's only aluminum) and drove to Southern Utah. We met up with our sis Beckie on the way, in Barstow, and took Malena with us for a while. We switched kids at a rest stop and had Bonnie the rest of the way. We even ran into a thunderstorm. In Las Vegas. 400 miles of empty desert and where does it rain? Where there's the most traffic, of course!
The purpose of this trip was to go to our family's very first Andersen Family reunion. My dad and his kids. All 9 of us. Well, 8. Mike didn't come. We found out when we got there that he had a job interview on that day, and since he's been out of work for over a year (just temp stuff, really), it was a good thing. Two brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law weren't able to make it, and I do have a couple nieces on missions, but for the most part everyone was there, at least for part of the time. Even the great-grand-kids were there! Ok, so there's only two of them (so far!), so it wasn't too hard, but it was so great to see everyone! yes, I have pictures, but not with me! I took a lot of casual shots.
The first full day there (Thursday) we went up to Zion's Canyon. They've closed the canyon to traffic and will now make you take a tram all the way up and back. It was so cool that my whole family took up an entire bus all by itself! Ok, there were like 4 people there that we weren't related to, but it was great. Collin made me sit by him (he's Beckie's 4-year-old), which of course I was happy to do. As we rode up, I got that special feeling in my heart that I only get when I'm surrounded by my family. I love them so much.
We were supposed to go to the temple that evening, but only three of my sisters made it. I think one of the things that really worked was that everything was optional. One major activity was planned per day, meals were assigned to family members, and everything was kept low key.
The next day (Saturday) we went to Overton, NV, where my Mom is buried. We went to the cemetary, then drove around to various places. It was sooo hot!! Dry heat my foot--after 110 degrees it doesn't matter if there's humidity there or not. My head got sunburned! I felt kind of bad for Nancy tho, my dad's second wife. She came, and she was a sport, but she really isn't a part of our family. Having us ask Dad about Mom and how they met and stuff, that had to be hard for her.
That night we had our 'family meeting' where some things were decided, but Kathy suggested we all go around the circle and tell what's going on in our lives. It was fun. Afterwards I stayed to watch Bolt in my brother Glen's back yard. I hadn't seen it before, and I really liked it.
Sunday some families had to return to their homes, but some of us stayed for church and a final dinner. I was about burned out, so when Dus was ready to leave I went with her (we were staying at a time-share in St George--Glen lives in Ivins, over the hill from St George to the West).
Monday Dus and I went with Kathy and her kids to go Letterboxing. Thats' this thing, kind of like GPS cacheing, only older. Someone will leave a box with a book and a stamp (usually home made) somewhere near where they live, then post directions on how to find it on letterboxing.com. Then other people go find the boxes and put their stamps in the book and put the letter box's stamp in their books. Kathy let me use one of her stamps (she has a big one and a small one) and a blank piece of paper. We found two stamps around St George. It's a good way for someone to give a little background on their territory to someone else. It was alot of fun. I'm thinking maybe I know what to give Kathy for her birthday (now that it's past--oops!)
Dus and I finally returned to her apt in CA, and the next day she dropped me off at LAX. It was a good trip, but I was ready to come home. Kitty was happy to see me, too. I think. She hasn't scratched me yet, so that's a good sign.
I'll try to get some pictures up soon, I promise!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
So cool
Some days I am reminded of just how cool a job I have, and how nice it is to be surrounded by people who love the same things I do. I'm sitting in a Science Working Group meeting for work, and we just took about 8 minutes to watch the launch of LRO--the Lunar Reconnassance Mission. It was so cool. Launched really nicely on an Atlas V rocket. Got to watch it all the way to second stage separation--there was a camera on the rocket. Even got to watch the fairing blow leaving the spacecraft open to space. Everyone in the room just sat and watched in silence. Then the smart comments began. I even made one about it being a hoax, and everyone just laughed.
It's good to be reminded of why we're here in the first place.
I have friends on the Mission Operations Team for LRO. I'm going to have to send them an email. In another month or so they might be less busy enough to meet up for lunch...
It's good to be reminded of why we're here in the first place.
I have friends on the Mission Operations Team for LRO. I'm going to have to send them an email. In another month or so they might be less busy enough to meet up for lunch...
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
...and now it's June...
so I think I actually posted more recently than I thought I had. After Memorial Day weekend and all the movies then, there hasn't been a whole lot going on. I did go to a Tuppeware party on the 30th, though. That was alot of fun. I love to buy stuff for my kitchen.
This past weekend was a very rare one--I didn't have anything planned!! I came home from my Pilates class on Saturday and CRASHED. I decided to rewatch Gilmore Girls from the beginning, and actually went through two of the DVD's. I watched some Combat too (of course). For some reason I didn't watch any movies. I was supposed to work in my yard, but didn't. It's still in horrible shape (the back yard, which fortunately has a fence so the Homeowners Association can't get too crazy). And today it's raining, so probably not going to work on it tonight either.
I'm also getting ready for my trip. I know I've alluded to this before. My work is sending me out to Redondo Beach, California, for a meeting next week. Since I'll already be there, I'm going to just stay and hang out with my sister for a while, then we'll make our way up to St George for our first Andersen Family Reunion. I've talked the family into doing soldier quilts for a service project--hopefully it won't get in the way of any of the activities my brother has planned. It should be really fun.
After going back and forth a few times, I'm thinking I may pass on the SA conference July 4th weekend. It sounds really fun, but I'll only have two days from the time I return from CA to the time I'd have to leave for the conference. Ok, so it's only in Alexandria so I could commute from my house, but seriously, I don't think my cat will have forgiven me yet for the first trip.
All this trip stuff has me remembering the trip I took last year, to Europe. That was such a great experience. I so have to do that again. Oh wait, Lori and me have a pact for next year, to England! :D I guess I should start saving money for that now, huh?
Happy dreams of your favorite person, and I'll ttyl!
This past weekend was a very rare one--I didn't have anything planned!! I came home from my Pilates class on Saturday and CRASHED. I decided to rewatch Gilmore Girls from the beginning, and actually went through two of the DVD's. I watched some Combat too (of course). For some reason I didn't watch any movies. I was supposed to work in my yard, but didn't. It's still in horrible shape (the back yard, which fortunately has a fence so the Homeowners Association can't get too crazy). And today it's raining, so probably not going to work on it tonight either.
I'm also getting ready for my trip. I know I've alluded to this before. My work is sending me out to Redondo Beach, California, for a meeting next week. Since I'll already be there, I'm going to just stay and hang out with my sister for a while, then we'll make our way up to St George for our first Andersen Family Reunion. I've talked the family into doing soldier quilts for a service project--hopefully it won't get in the way of any of the activities my brother has planned. It should be really fun.
After going back and forth a few times, I'm thinking I may pass on the SA conference July 4th weekend. It sounds really fun, but I'll only have two days from the time I return from CA to the time I'd have to leave for the conference. Ok, so it's only in Alexandria so I could commute from my house, but seriously, I don't think my cat will have forgiven me yet for the first trip.
All this trip stuff has me remembering the trip I took last year, to Europe. That was such a great experience. I so have to do that again. Oh wait, Lori and me have a pact for next year, to England! :D I guess I should start saving money for that now, huh?
Happy dreams of your favorite person, and I'll ttyl!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
movies and more movies
Ok, so my friend Shannon loves to go to the movies as much as I do. The biggest problem is that she lives in Northern VA and I live in MD. But when the movie is big enough, or desired enough by both of us, one of us makes the trek to the other's state and we go to the movies. On the 16th I met up with her at Tyson's Corner and we saw Angels and Demons. It was good. I liked it a lot, although I'd read the book so I already knew how it was going to end. I was a little surprised by some of the things they left out, but it is only a 2 hour movie. I loved the location stuff at the Vatican, and I really didn't think it painted the Roman Catholic church in a bad light.
Then last Saturday, May 23, we did a double feature in my neck of the woods. We went to Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian first. It was really funny. I laughed almost through the whole thing. There were a few things that were unreallistic--like he only had an hour to do a certain task, and went from Lincoln's Memorial up to the Air and Space Museum including a couple of fights and interactions and made it back in time (honestly, it's about a mile from the memorial to the A&S museum). It was fun to see Abraham Lincoln's statue get up and stretch--he's been sitting there for such a long time!
The second movie was Terminator: Salvation. Also very good. There were a lot of tributes to the first two Terminator movies--I've only seen the first one and commercials for the second, so I'm afraid I missed anything from the second movie, but I did get the first movie references. They did a really good job with it. I'm hoping for a sequel, actually. Should be quite good if the same people are involved.
What else have I been doing? Catching up on LOST. Well, sort of. I decided I wanted to rewatch the entire series from the beginning before the next season starts. I have 8 months, it can be done! My friend has never seen it, having been told rather strongly that she needs to start it from the beginning. So we're watching it together. We're already up to episode 7. I have forgotten quite a bit in the last 5 years. I'm enjoying the refresher course.
I also broke down and ordered season 3 of Combat! from Amazon. The Powers That Be on American Life TV Network have determined to stop playing Combat! altogether, and there is one episode in Season 3 that I HAVEN'T SEEN!!! It was going to show on June 2, but they're taking it off the air on June 1st!! Well, my first set came yesterday, so that's the episode I sat down and watched. Sigh. I just love when Sarge gets all cagey and saves someone's life (in this case Hanley, as he was captured by the Germans). I love Lt Hanley, too. He is so beautiful. And Kirby is so dang cute and funny. Ok, I'm pretty sure you've stopped reading this paragraph now.
What next? I've been reading books (I had to do something after all my tv shows ended for the season!). I'm currently reading "The Company of Good Women", a trilogy by a trio of LDS writers, about three women who meet up by chance at BYU Education Week and stay friends. Over the years they have a lot of different things happen in their lives, and they help each other get through it. I'm quite enjoying it--the portrayal of how life can be for LDS women in various life stages matches what I've experienced and what I've seen through my 20 years of being an adult in the church. There do seem to be quite the number of problems in their lives, major problems that most of us don't have to deal with, but they get through them the same way we get through any of our problems--prayer and friendship.
I'm still getting attacked by my cat (still not sure why she does that). Last night she was cute, though. I have a little Moses basket for my baby doll (the one that breathes), and the baby has been moved to the rocking chair to be with some other dolls. So last night Padme Kitty climbed into the basket and curled up. I covered her with a baby blanket I made for me (just in case I ever had one), and she actually stayed there until 4:00 in the morning. When she woke up, jumped up on the bed, and started attacking my feet. I guess she thought it was time to play. So I did the expected thing and threw her out (well, not physically, just verbally). But her being in the basket was very cute.
Oh, and I'M RELEASED. I am no longer the Single Adult anything in my ward or stake! I feel a little taller, now that that weight is off my shoulders. I suppose I still have to participate, but at least I don't have to find people to take over when I'm gone next month. Yay! And no more conflicts with the choir! Well, after this season, anyway. I'll go back in the fall to see if I like it any better. Christmas and Easter music is always so wonderful.
Well, I should get back to work now. I'd write more during my lunchtime, but someone's been scheduling meetings during lunch!!!
Oh, and Kellie and I did make it back to Earth Treks last week, and we're going again this week. We're not going to let 6 weeks pass by before going again, right??? ;)
Then last Saturday, May 23, we did a double feature in my neck of the woods. We went to Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian first. It was really funny. I laughed almost through the whole thing. There were a few things that were unreallistic--like he only had an hour to do a certain task, and went from Lincoln's Memorial up to the Air and Space Museum including a couple of fights and interactions and made it back in time (honestly, it's about a mile from the memorial to the A&S museum). It was fun to see Abraham Lincoln's statue get up and stretch--he's been sitting there for such a long time!
The second movie was Terminator: Salvation. Also very good. There were a lot of tributes to the first two Terminator movies--I've only seen the first one and commercials for the second, so I'm afraid I missed anything from the second movie, but I did get the first movie references. They did a really good job with it. I'm hoping for a sequel, actually. Should be quite good if the same people are involved.
What else have I been doing? Catching up on LOST. Well, sort of. I decided I wanted to rewatch the entire series from the beginning before the next season starts. I have 8 months, it can be done! My friend has never seen it, having been told rather strongly that she needs to start it from the beginning. So we're watching it together. We're already up to episode 7. I have forgotten quite a bit in the last 5 years. I'm enjoying the refresher course.
I also broke down and ordered season 3 of Combat! from Amazon. The Powers That Be on American Life TV Network have determined to stop playing Combat! altogether, and there is one episode in Season 3 that I HAVEN'T SEEN!!! It was going to show on June 2, but they're taking it off the air on June 1st!! Well, my first set came yesterday, so that's the episode I sat down and watched. Sigh. I just love when Sarge gets all cagey and saves someone's life (in this case Hanley, as he was captured by the Germans). I love Lt Hanley, too. He is so beautiful. And Kirby is so dang cute and funny. Ok, I'm pretty sure you've stopped reading this paragraph now.
What next? I've been reading books (I had to do something after all my tv shows ended for the season!). I'm currently reading "The Company of Good Women", a trilogy by a trio of LDS writers, about three women who meet up by chance at BYU Education Week and stay friends. Over the years they have a lot of different things happen in their lives, and they help each other get through it. I'm quite enjoying it--the portrayal of how life can be for LDS women in various life stages matches what I've experienced and what I've seen through my 20 years of being an adult in the church. There do seem to be quite the number of problems in their lives, major problems that most of us don't have to deal with, but they get through them the same way we get through any of our problems--prayer and friendship.
I'm still getting attacked by my cat (still not sure why she does that). Last night she was cute, though. I have a little Moses basket for my baby doll (the one that breathes), and the baby has been moved to the rocking chair to be with some other dolls. So last night Padme Kitty climbed into the basket and curled up. I covered her with a baby blanket I made for me (just in case I ever had one), and she actually stayed there until 4:00 in the morning. When she woke up, jumped up on the bed, and started attacking my feet. I guess she thought it was time to play. So I did the expected thing and threw her out (well, not physically, just verbally). But her being in the basket was very cute.
Oh, and I'M RELEASED. I am no longer the Single Adult anything in my ward or stake! I feel a little taller, now that that weight is off my shoulders. I suppose I still have to participate, but at least I don't have to find people to take over when I'm gone next month. Yay! And no more conflicts with the choir! Well, after this season, anyway. I'll go back in the fall to see if I like it any better. Christmas and Easter music is always so wonderful.
Well, I should get back to work now. I'd write more during my lunchtime, but someone's been scheduling meetings during lunch!!!
Oh, and Kellie and I did make it back to Earth Treks last week, and we're going again this week. We're not going to let 6 weeks pass by before going again, right??? ;)
Thursday, May 14, 2009
bloging bloging
Ok, so I know I took a bit of a hiatus from blogging, but I've found like 5 people to add to my friend list this week! How on earth did I miss them?
Well, my sister Dustie just started her blog, my niece Danja is on a mission and my niece-in-law/Danja's sister-in-law updates her blog for her, and I just found Nicole's blog since they moved a while ago. Ok, so maybe only three. I was sure there was more though... I have it sorted by how frequently people have posted so I don't have to scroll through blogs that haven't been updated for months.
Plus catching up on what my friends have been doing has been great fun. I missed a lot. No worries, though, RL has calmed down and I'm starting to run out of Combat! fanfic to read. I even contributed one of my own (Squirrel's Story) Yeah, I have a call sign. I'm Squirrel. Because Claude Akins calls Kirby Squirrel in Season 5. Like you care, I know. But I have a thing for short scrappy guys who constantly get into trouble (hence my fascination with Pippen from Lord of the Rings). Although this story may not make sense if you haven't seen the show, but it might.
I'm currently in a meeting at work--a telecon, that I didn't have to fly out to Boulder CO to attend, so I get to sit in a confererence room with some other guys from my project and make smart comments while the mute button is on. Best part about remote meetings. And no one cares if I actually get some work done during the meeting, either. Or blog, as the case may be.
Next month will be different since I'm going out to Redondo Beach, California for a meeting. And extending my stay so's I can go to my family's first reunion the following weekend. Oh, tres terrible!
Ok, gotta go now.
Well, my sister Dustie just started her blog, my niece Danja is on a mission and my niece-in-law/Danja's sister-in-law updates her blog for her, and I just found Nicole's blog since they moved a while ago. Ok, so maybe only three. I was sure there was more though... I have it sorted by how frequently people have posted so I don't have to scroll through blogs that haven't been updated for months.
Plus catching up on what my friends have been doing has been great fun. I missed a lot. No worries, though, RL has calmed down and I'm starting to run out of Combat! fanfic to read. I even contributed one of my own (Squirrel's Story) Yeah, I have a call sign. I'm Squirrel. Because Claude Akins calls Kirby Squirrel in Season 5. Like you care, I know. But I have a thing for short scrappy guys who constantly get into trouble (hence my fascination with Pippen from Lord of the Rings). Although this story may not make sense if you haven't seen the show, but it might.
I'm currently in a meeting at work--a telecon, that I didn't have to fly out to Boulder CO to attend, so I get to sit in a confererence room with some other guys from my project and make smart comments while the mute button is on. Best part about remote meetings. And no one cares if I actually get some work done during the meeting, either. Or blog, as the case may be.
Next month will be different since I'm going out to Redondo Beach, California for a meeting. And extending my stay so's I can go to my family's first reunion the following weekend. Oh, tres terrible!
Ok, gotta go now.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
And the Biggest Loser is...
Helen!!!
I was so shocked! She was never presented as a threat, but she just kept plugging along the whole time. She worked with both trainers, so it's a victory for both of them. And the best part is, she's 48 years old!!! But the real shock of the night was Jerry. 64 years old, lost 177 lbs, took home the at-home prize. I couldn't believe it. No one could. Since I've started watching, it's usually been the person who had the most time on the ranch before getting sent home. Jerry was there for two weeks. He passed out during his first workout.
So if you think you can't lose weight or make changes because of age, you are just wrong. Find another excuse. As for me, my Weight Watchers is doing well. I've been plateau'ed for a while, mostly because I just love to eat potato chips, but I am determined to lose 10 lbs before June 16--and NO more chips until the Family Reunion!!!
The funniest thing happened last night. I'm going to have to take back what I said about learning to say 'no' in the last post. A woman came to my door, doing deliveries in my area for a meat-supply thing. I didn't even get the name of the company. They were looking to unload frozen steak and pork. Said she'd give me about $700 of steak for free if I bought the pork for $250. I'm not supposed to tell my neighbors about this, though. I told them if they could fit it in my freezer, I'd take it. Darn if the guy didn't stuff all that meat in my little freezer atop my fridge. So I'm thinking I should probably have some people over to dinner now. Good thing my nephew is coming in August, he can help, I'm sure. And when it gets down a ways, I may give her another call--they also sell chicken and seafood, although I'm positive I won't get that good of a deal again. What were we saying, Tracy? When a good deal comes along, you can't just pass it by! And hey, now I won't have to buy any meat for about a year...
This morning I also had a major blessing. I had made an appointment to take my car in for its next service, which turned out to be an oil change. I typically drop the car off, have their shuttle take me to work, and then they pick me up later. Well, the shuttle driver didn't come in. So the Service Manager told me if I could wait, it would only take them about 20 minutes and my car would be done. I knew my first meeting was at 10:00, so I figured I had the time to wait. So I did. And when it was done, they didn't even charge me! Ok, so it would have just been like $30, but still! Did I mention I love my car? It's a Saturn, and one of the main reasons I bought a Saturn was because of their service reputation. They're really good. They've always been good to me.
Ok, I need to go get my lunch now--I ran out without it this morning, running late, of course.
I was so shocked! She was never presented as a threat, but she just kept plugging along the whole time. She worked with both trainers, so it's a victory for both of them. And the best part is, she's 48 years old!!! But the real shock of the night was Jerry. 64 years old, lost 177 lbs, took home the at-home prize. I couldn't believe it. No one could. Since I've started watching, it's usually been the person who had the most time on the ranch before getting sent home. Jerry was there for two weeks. He passed out during his first workout.
So if you think you can't lose weight or make changes because of age, you are just wrong. Find another excuse. As for me, my Weight Watchers is doing well. I've been plateau'ed for a while, mostly because I just love to eat potato chips, but I am determined to lose 10 lbs before June 16--and NO more chips until the Family Reunion!!!
The funniest thing happened last night. I'm going to have to take back what I said about learning to say 'no' in the last post. A woman came to my door, doing deliveries in my area for a meat-supply thing. I didn't even get the name of the company. They were looking to unload frozen steak and pork. Said she'd give me about $700 of steak for free if I bought the pork for $250. I'm not supposed to tell my neighbors about this, though. I told them if they could fit it in my freezer, I'd take it. Darn if the guy didn't stuff all that meat in my little freezer atop my fridge. So I'm thinking I should probably have some people over to dinner now. Good thing my nephew is coming in August, he can help, I'm sure. And when it gets down a ways, I may give her another call--they also sell chicken and seafood, although I'm positive I won't get that good of a deal again. What were we saying, Tracy? When a good deal comes along, you can't just pass it by! And hey, now I won't have to buy any meat for about a year...
This morning I also had a major blessing. I had made an appointment to take my car in for its next service, which turned out to be an oil change. I typically drop the car off, have their shuttle take me to work, and then they pick me up later. Well, the shuttle driver didn't come in. So the Service Manager told me if I could wait, it would only take them about 20 minutes and my car would be done. I knew my first meeting was at 10:00, so I figured I had the time to wait. So I did. And when it was done, they didn't even charge me! Ok, so it would have just been like $30, but still! Did I mention I love my car? It's a Saturn, and one of the main reasons I bought a Saturn was because of their service reputation. They're really good. They've always been good to me.
Ok, I need to go get my lunch now--I ran out without it this morning, running late, of course.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Another weekend gone past
I've been seeing alot of movies lately. I went to see Wolverine with my friends the weekend it came out, and last weekend I went to see Star Trek. I enjoyed both movies. I can see that some Star Trek fans might be a little upset, but they did say it was an alternate reality... and with JJ Abrams at the helm, can you really expect anything less?
Saturday night I watched "Time after Time", a movie from 1979 with Malcolm McDowell as H.G. Wells. Rather slow paced, and I do remember watching it when it came out (helps that my dad worked at a movie theater so I got to see lots of movies for free when I was little). I wanted to see it again after seeing Malcolm at Shore Leave last year.
Sunday I watched movies all day long. I started with "Miss Potter", a movie about Beatrix Potter and her life (yes, the one of Peter Rabbit fame). I can highly recommend this movie, and it was certainly suitable for watching on a Sunday. I think I watched something else next, but I can't remmember. Rat Patrol episodes, I think. I also watched "What Happens in Vegas" (less appropriate for Sundays, but oh well). I saw this first at my brother's house in February, and just loved it. I've decided that one of my guilty pleasures is watching Cameron Diaz--she always dresses inappropriately, but she's also quite charming. As for this movie, if you've seen it, "You know why!" :D I also watched some Combat and a couple other recorded tv shows.
Why wasn't I at church on Sunday, you may ask. Was I sick? No, I was not sick. Some years I can "do" Mother's Day, and some years I can't. This year was a "can't" year. Now before you go trying to console me about my lack of children, remember that this day hurts for two reasons. One, ok, I'm not a mother, which was my life-long ambition from the time I was a small child. Two, my mom passed away 9 years ago. It's really difficult for me to watch other people get things from their kids, or give things to their moms, and I just can't participate. Getting a Mother's Day gift just because I'm female seems so pathetic some years. So I stayed home and watched movies and cried. ("Miss Potter" was really sad at one point).
Last night I had a guy from Long Fence & Home come over and try to sell me new, energy efficient windows. Sigh. I liked the windows, but the price tag was rather hefty. They do their own financing, but just the thought of spending that much money really just hurts. Although they would give me a discount if I could get them a referral (anyone out there thinking of redoing their windows?). It's about the amount of a small car. Maybe not quite that much. On the other hand, my monthly electric bill would go down. so much to think about. He really wanted me to sign right there and then, but I was really good and said I wasn't ready to make a commitment that night. I'm getting better at saying 'no'.
Tonight is the Biggest Loser finale, and I'm kind of anxious to see Carla again. I bet she looks fabulous. Although I'm also pretty sure we won't be seeing Joelle. I rather rexpect Tara to win, but I would like Mike to win--the prize money would pay for his college and then some (he's only 18 years old). He could go to any college in the country. Provided his grades were good enough, though.
Ok, time for me to get back to work. Have a great week!
Saturday night I watched "Time after Time", a movie from 1979 with Malcolm McDowell as H.G. Wells. Rather slow paced, and I do remember watching it when it came out (helps that my dad worked at a movie theater so I got to see lots of movies for free when I was little). I wanted to see it again after seeing Malcolm at Shore Leave last year.
Sunday I watched movies all day long. I started with "Miss Potter", a movie about Beatrix Potter and her life (yes, the one of Peter Rabbit fame). I can highly recommend this movie, and it was certainly suitable for watching on a Sunday. I think I watched something else next, but I can't remmember. Rat Patrol episodes, I think. I also watched "What Happens in Vegas" (less appropriate for Sundays, but oh well). I saw this first at my brother's house in February, and just loved it. I've decided that one of my guilty pleasures is watching Cameron Diaz--she always dresses inappropriately, but she's also quite charming. As for this movie, if you've seen it, "You know why!" :D I also watched some Combat and a couple other recorded tv shows.
Why wasn't I at church on Sunday, you may ask. Was I sick? No, I was not sick. Some years I can "do" Mother's Day, and some years I can't. This year was a "can't" year. Now before you go trying to console me about my lack of children, remember that this day hurts for two reasons. One, ok, I'm not a mother, which was my life-long ambition from the time I was a small child. Two, my mom passed away 9 years ago. It's really difficult for me to watch other people get things from their kids, or give things to their moms, and I just can't participate. Getting a Mother's Day gift just because I'm female seems so pathetic some years. So I stayed home and watched movies and cried. ("Miss Potter" was really sad at one point).
Last night I had a guy from Long Fence & Home come over and try to sell me new, energy efficient windows. Sigh. I liked the windows, but the price tag was rather hefty. They do their own financing, but just the thought of spending that much money really just hurts. Although they would give me a discount if I could get them a referral (anyone out there thinking of redoing their windows?). It's about the amount of a small car. Maybe not quite that much. On the other hand, my monthly electric bill would go down. so much to think about. He really wanted me to sign right there and then, but I was really good and said I wasn't ready to make a commitment that night. I'm getting better at saying 'no'.
Tonight is the Biggest Loser finale, and I'm kind of anxious to see Carla again. I bet she looks fabulous. Although I'm also pretty sure we won't be seeing Joelle. I rather rexpect Tara to win, but I would like Mike to win--the prize money would pay for his college and then some (he's only 18 years old). He could go to any college in the country. Provided his grades were good enough, though.
Ok, time for me to get back to work. Have a great week!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Alright already!!!
This is for Kristen who reminded me of my obligations :D
I started blogging for my family who lives, hello, Three Thousand Miles away.
Silly of me to forget that.
So, since March, I have managed to fly to California for my niece's farewell--she's going on a mission!! She's actually now been in the MTC 2 months and will be making her way to Arizona, Tucson, this week (spanish speaking). She's very excited.
I also went to my sister Beckie's in South Carolina for Easter. Her husband is a GREAT cook. We had a Greek Fest for Easter dinner, complete with lamb, greek salad, and stuffed grape leaves. Very yummy. We also went to the beach on Friday, the day after I arrived, which was fabulous. Collin (the 4-year-old) couldn't go--he'd been Very Bad. The night I arrived he went out and was jumping on the car. He went bum-first into the windsheild and shattered it. He was fine, the windsheild was not. He was grounded. fortunately their insurance covered it.
Playing with Bonnie, Malena, and JackJack at the beach was really fun. At one point JackJack (14 months old) got away from his mother during a diaper change, and began exfoliating his bum iin the sand. Fortunately we had a lot of understanding moms and grandmas around us--no one got offended by the little bare-bottomed fiend. It was a nice day at the beach--not too cold, not too warm, a nice breeze.
Saturday we did Easter Eggs and their ward Easter Egg hunt. I was quite impressed with their ward--they're doing a Major Service Project, gathering food for a local church that makes lunches for people in need. They're really struggling since now people can't afford to give, and people who used to be able to give are now in need of their services. So Beckie's ward made it a community service project to gather food items. Their Activity Chairperson is a real go-getter, with flyers and getting the word out, and working with other churches in their community. Quite impressive.
I got home and promptly got sick. The following weekend I slept for about 40 hours (with intermittent wake-ups to care for the cat). Kitty was not happy with me. First I leave, then I sleep. So last weekend as I was getting ready for pilates she clawed my leg. Yup, I have a number of really ugly scratches on my leg. I threw her out of my room and didn't have anything to do with her the rest of the day. Until the end of the day when she sat on my lap and I captured one of her paws and clipped her claws. I got the other one the following day. She's been a little better since then.
I also went to Great Falls, VA, with a couple friends the last weekend in April. We hiked all around--the trails made it feel like we were hiking, and I even got in some rock-climbing and bouldering.
I forgot to mention that me and my good friend Kellie have taken up rock-climbing. It's a big challenge for me, with a fear of heights that I'd forgotten about. Plus I'm really sort of physically challenged as well, but I'm working on that. I'm doing pretty good with that, but Kellie is amazing. She is my new hero. :D
Looking forward to a quieter month with lots of movies (saw Wolverine last weekend, will see Star Trek this weekend, both with my VA friends), and in June I'm going to California. Starting out as a work trip, ending up with my family's very first Family Reunion. My brother's doing an excellent job organizing it. Should be a lot of fun.
I will work harder on posting from now on, Kristen, I promise! Don't send Vance over to 'deal' with me! ;)
I started blogging for my family who lives, hello, Three Thousand Miles away.
Silly of me to forget that.
So, since March, I have managed to fly to California for my niece's farewell--she's going on a mission!! She's actually now been in the MTC 2 months and will be making her way to Arizona, Tucson, this week (spanish speaking). She's very excited.
I also went to my sister Beckie's in South Carolina for Easter. Her husband is a GREAT cook. We had a Greek Fest for Easter dinner, complete with lamb, greek salad, and stuffed grape leaves. Very yummy. We also went to the beach on Friday, the day after I arrived, which was fabulous. Collin (the 4-year-old) couldn't go--he'd been Very Bad. The night I arrived he went out and was jumping on the car. He went bum-first into the windsheild and shattered it. He was fine, the windsheild was not. He was grounded. fortunately their insurance covered it.
Playing with Bonnie, Malena, and JackJack at the beach was really fun. At one point JackJack (14 months old) got away from his mother during a diaper change, and began exfoliating his bum iin the sand. Fortunately we had a lot of understanding moms and grandmas around us--no one got offended by the little bare-bottomed fiend. It was a nice day at the beach--not too cold, not too warm, a nice breeze.
Saturday we did Easter Eggs and their ward Easter Egg hunt. I was quite impressed with their ward--they're doing a Major Service Project, gathering food for a local church that makes lunches for people in need. They're really struggling since now people can't afford to give, and people who used to be able to give are now in need of their services. So Beckie's ward made it a community service project to gather food items. Their Activity Chairperson is a real go-getter, with flyers and getting the word out, and working with other churches in their community. Quite impressive.
I got home and promptly got sick. The following weekend I slept for about 40 hours (with intermittent wake-ups to care for the cat). Kitty was not happy with me. First I leave, then I sleep. So last weekend as I was getting ready for pilates she clawed my leg. Yup, I have a number of really ugly scratches on my leg. I threw her out of my room and didn't have anything to do with her the rest of the day. Until the end of the day when she sat on my lap and I captured one of her paws and clipped her claws. I got the other one the following day. She's been a little better since then.
I also went to Great Falls, VA, with a couple friends the last weekend in April. We hiked all around--the trails made it feel like we were hiking, and I even got in some rock-climbing and bouldering.
I forgot to mention that me and my good friend Kellie have taken up rock-climbing. It's a big challenge for me, with a fear of heights that I'd forgotten about. Plus I'm really sort of physically challenged as well, but I'm working on that. I'm doing pretty good with that, but Kellie is amazing. She is my new hero. :D
Looking forward to a quieter month with lots of movies (saw Wolverine last weekend, will see Star Trek this weekend, both with my VA friends), and in June I'm going to California. Starting out as a work trip, ending up with my family's very first Family Reunion. My brother's doing an excellent job organizing it. Should be a lot of fun.
I will work harder on posting from now on, Kristen, I promise! Don't send Vance over to 'deal' with me! ;)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Dogpile on Sunday...
So I'm in the Nursery at church. We have so many kids in Nursery that we have two Nursery's, and in mine we have all the kids turning 3 this year (they'll all be Sunbeams next year). They're really cute.
Last Sunday I was doing the "Birdie" song with them--it goes something like this:
"Way up in the sky the little birds fly" (flap your arms like you're flying)
"Way down in the nest, the little birds rest" (put your hands on your head and lay down (or just pretend if you're a big adult)
"With a wing on the left" (Wave your left elbow)
"And a wing on the right" (Wave your right elbow)
"The little birdies sleep all through the night..." (here we pause and let the kids pretend they're asleep. Sometimes we can get them to stay that way for almost a minute. Lately I've been having them pretend to snore--it's really funny. When ready to continue (or the kids are becoming restless...)
"The bright sun comes up!" (Get up like you're waking up)
"the dew falls around!" (wave your hands like the dew is falling all around)
"Good morning! Good morning! the little birds shout"
Now is the fun part. And you thought that part was fun. The kids have started giving out hugs after they "wake up". Last week, they all (there's 10 of them) tried to give me hugs at the same time. They knocked me over (course, I was sitting on the floor to begin with). So much fun.
Dog-piled by 10 3-year-olds. Definitely made my hug-quota for that day :D
Last Sunday I was doing the "Birdie" song with them--it goes something like this:
"Way up in the sky the little birds fly" (flap your arms like you're flying)
"Way down in the nest, the little birds rest" (put your hands on your head and lay down (or just pretend if you're a big adult)
"With a wing on the left" (Wave your left elbow)
"And a wing on the right" (Wave your right elbow)
"The little birdies sleep all through the night..." (here we pause and let the kids pretend they're asleep. Sometimes we can get them to stay that way for almost a minute. Lately I've been having them pretend to snore--it's really funny. When ready to continue (or the kids are becoming restless...)
"The bright sun comes up!" (Get up like you're waking up)
"the dew falls around!" (wave your hands like the dew is falling all around)
"Good morning! Good morning! the little birds shout"
Now is the fun part. And you thought that part was fun. The kids have started giving out hugs after they "wake up". Last week, they all (there's 10 of them) tried to give me hugs at the same time. They knocked me over (course, I was sitting on the floor to begin with). So much fun.
Dog-piled by 10 3-year-olds. Definitely made my hug-quota for that day :D
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Let me call you sweetheart...
So Saturday I was having a marathon laundry day (just got my new washer after doing without and borrowing my visiting teachers' washer for about 3 weeks), so was watching (what else?) Combat! One of the Special Features was a radio interview Rick Jason had done back in the early 2000's. Who is Rick Jason, you ask? Yeah, that's him. Lt. Hanley. He has green eyes and dark hair and is, as one of the fanfic writers I've been reading states, absolutely yummy.
So, back to the interview. During the show several people called in, most of them women. He called all the women, 'Sweetheart,' and melted my heart each time he did it. There's just something about how he said it, with love and respect--and it was just so gentlemanly and sweet. At one point he was saying something to his wife, and he called her 'Sweetheart' too. See, Rick was an actor in the Golden Age of Hollywood. For movies he did mostly stinkers (his word, not mine), but he did have a good, 5-year run on Combat! Before that he was in a little known tv show playing a detective, and was the first detective to use martial arts on TV. He was referred to by the interviewer of the radio program as a Renaissance Man, being educated, well-spoken, with many interests. He just melted my heart, to hear him speak. And to hear him call the women, 'Sweetheart.'In thinking about this the last couple days, I realized that my Dad does that--calls me Sweetheart. He called my mom that, too. Maybe it's a generational thing, since Dad and Rick Jason are of similar age (Rick is a bit older). I absolutely love it. So now I have something to add to my list of things I want to be called should I ever find someone to spend eternity with. I want him to call me Sweetheart. Although truthfully, the thing my dad called my mom that I liked the most was, "Light of my Life."
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Smacked by a Cat
Ok, so I know I've been watching a lot of TV lately. And by a lot, I mean, on the days I don't have to go anywhere after work I sit down to my dinner in front of the tv and get up about 4-5 hours later. Usually I watch stuff I've recorded over the past week, stuff that I missed because I was gone or it was on too late, but lately it's been Combat! I bought the first two seasons on DVD, and for some reason that's all I want to watch right now. I thought my cat was ok with this--she tends to snuggle with me when I watch tv, and looks like she's actually watching the explosions and the little men running around like they're nuts. The other night, though, maybe it just got to be too much.
So, any ideas on what she was trying to tell me? That I really needed to go to bed? That she wanted to watch one of her tv shows? Don't ask me what that would be, I don't think I watch anything with mice or birds. Maybe I was taking up her position on the couch? Maybe she doesn't like Lt Hanley?
Anyway, my cat smacked me. Add that to the life experiences, please.
I lay down to watch my fourth (yes, fourth) episode of Combat! that night. I knew it was time for bed, but I really wanted to see a 'Hanley' episode (i.e. Lt Hanley takes the lead instead of Sgt Saunders--both have their merits, trust me. Physcially and dramatically). I lay down on the couch to begin watching, and Padme Kitty sat on the floor in front of the couch, watching me. Then she leapt up and smacked me in the face!!!
So, any ideas on what she was trying to tell me? That I really needed to go to bed? That she wanted to watch one of her tv shows? Don't ask me what that would be, I don't think I watch anything with mice or birds. Maybe I was taking up her position on the couch? Maybe she doesn't like Lt Hanley?
Anyway, my cat smacked me. Add that to the life experiences, please.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Valentine's Day?
Or Single's Awareness Day?
Hmm, that's pretty SAD.
Pun intended.
Yeah, not a fan of Valentine's Day. Stayed home, ate potato chips, ice cream, and watched Combat! until I couldn't see straight anymore. Although watching handsome men run around playing soldier is quite fun for me. This was filmed in the 60's so they don't use any profanity (although the Sergeant will tell the others to "Shut Up!"). They get hurt, they get dirty, they need comforting, right? Oh to be a nurse in the fantastical world of television WWII. The actual WWII not such a nice place. I've been reading 1942, all about the turning points in the war, most of which happened during that year. The book really starts with Pearl Harbor, not sure where it really finishes since I'm not finished with it yet, but it was a pretty horrible thing. I can't even hardly credit the horrible, horrible things that men will do to each other on such a large scale. As bad as we were for putting Japanese-Americans in internment camps, as bad as Hitler was with his concentration camps, I'm beginning to think the Japanese were worse.
Work, Church, way too much tv, that's my life at present. I will be going to California in March for my neice who's going on a mission (the second one in 6 months!!), so maybe after that something interesting will come along for me to post about.
have a great day!
Hmm, that's pretty SAD.
Pun intended.
Yeah, not a fan of Valentine's Day. Stayed home, ate potato chips, ice cream, and watched Combat! until I couldn't see straight anymore. Although watching handsome men run around playing soldier is quite fun for me. This was filmed in the 60's so they don't use any profanity (although the Sergeant will tell the others to "Shut Up!"). They get hurt, they get dirty, they need comforting, right? Oh to be a nurse in the fantastical world of television WWII. The actual WWII not such a nice place. I've been reading 1942, all about the turning points in the war, most of which happened during that year. The book really starts with Pearl Harbor, not sure where it really finishes since I'm not finished with it yet, but it was a pretty horrible thing. I can't even hardly credit the horrible, horrible things that men will do to each other on such a large scale. As bad as we were for putting Japanese-Americans in internment camps, as bad as Hitler was with his concentration camps, I'm beginning to think the Japanese were worse.
Work, Church, way too much tv, that's my life at present. I will be going to California in March for my neice who's going on a mission (the second one in 6 months!!), so maybe after that something interesting will come along for me to post about.
have a great day!
Monday, January 12, 2009
What do I have to say?
Hmmm, realized it's been a while since I blogged. Again. I seem to have fallen off the blogging bandwagon. So I guess if you really want to know what's up with me, you'll just have to call or email me and ask.
But before I go...
I did this silly thing. The magic Acai berry--have you heard of this? It's supposed to help with weight loss. I succumbed and signed up for a free trial. Within 3 days I was walking around with a stupid smile on my face. Two days later, I realized something significant. I wasn't depressed. I have been depressed for so long I can't remember what it's like to not be depressed. Except that I certainly recognized it when I felt it. The weight of depression was just gone. I guess there's some magic to that berry after all, at least, for me. In a way it does help with weight loss--I no longer feel the need to sit around and eat and eat and eat. I actually want to get up and do things. It's kind of amazing. I was at a dinner a few weeks ago as part of a choir thing I was doing, and I actually talked to everyone at the table, got them to introduce themselves and everything. Something I used to be able to do and haven't done for years. years.
Most people who've met me in the last 9 years have no idea what I used to be like, before Mom died, before the depression hit, before my biological clock went haywire, all that stuff I had to deal with in the last decade. Lots of garbage. It may not be over, but it will be a lot easier to deal with if I'm not depressed all the time.
Let's hear it for magic berries!
But before I go...
I did this silly thing. The magic Acai berry--have you heard of this? It's supposed to help with weight loss. I succumbed and signed up for a free trial. Within 3 days I was walking around with a stupid smile on my face. Two days later, I realized something significant. I wasn't depressed. I have been depressed for so long I can't remember what it's like to not be depressed. Except that I certainly recognized it when I felt it. The weight of depression was just gone. I guess there's some magic to that berry after all, at least, for me. In a way it does help with weight loss--I no longer feel the need to sit around and eat and eat and eat. I actually want to get up and do things. It's kind of amazing. I was at a dinner a few weeks ago as part of a choir thing I was doing, and I actually talked to everyone at the table, got them to introduce themselves and everything. Something I used to be able to do and haven't done for years. years.
Most people who've met me in the last 9 years have no idea what I used to be like, before Mom died, before the depression hit, before my biological clock went haywire, all that stuff I had to deal with in the last decade. Lots of garbage. It may not be over, but it will be a lot easier to deal with if I'm not depressed all the time.
Let's hear it for magic berries!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Another Christmas over...
Ok, so I realize it's been over 3 weeks since I last wrote. In that time I...
- Went to three choir rehearsals
- Performed 6 times with 2 different choirs
- Wrapped a zillion presents
- Packaged and mailed 7 packages
- printed out, folded, and mailed over 70 Christmas letters
- Checked my mail to find cards and pressents among the usual garbage and bills
- managed to pay my bills, mostly on time
- Shopped (but only in Columbia, and NOT at the Mall!!!)
- Went to the Temple Visitor's Center with friends
- Sang Christmas Carols
- Ate too many Christmas cookies and treats
- Went to 3 different Christmas parties (mostly work-related)
- Played with Kitty so she wouldn't feel neglected as I wrapped and folded and mailed and left her home alone.
- Helped a friend or two in need
- Drove 400 miles to be with my family at Christmastime
'nuff said? I've been entirely too busy this December. Not a lot of time to feel Christmas spirit, running around from place to place, my house a mess because I have no time to clean. sigh.
But the house is now clean, Kitty is being taken care of, the presents have all been opened and aknowledged. Time to think about New Years, and what changes I want to make for 2009. Things like...
- Following my Weight Watchers Plan
- Being a nicer person/better friend
- Be cheerful
- Figure out how to incorporate more exercise into my day
so forward, 2009. Happy New Year to one and all!
Friday, December 5, 2008
In case you missed it...
From http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ today. In case you missed the beautiful conjunction on Monday. This view is from New South Wales, in Australia, and the moon, Venus, and Jupiter are actually making a smiley face!so the week is about over--well, ok, so I still have two concerts and a lllooooonnnngggg rehearsal tomorrow morning, so maybe the week isn't as over as I'd like it to be, but I'm managing. Somehow. I am looking forward to going shopping on Monday night, though. Prince Caspian is FINALLY on DVD!!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
A weekend of movies...
I didn't get any invitations to Thanksgiving dinner this year--it happens that way sometimes, and I wasn't up to trying to pull a dinner together after I pulled the SA Dinner together--so I went to the movies instead. I saw Australia and Four Christmases. I really enjoyed both of them, for different reasons, since they're different movies.
Australia was very good. It's almost like two movies in one, so when you think it's over, it's really not. My nephews were a little confused by that, but since I knew it was about 2 1/2 hours long and it hadn't been long enough, I was good. Plus, I really couldn't pass up the chance to watch Hugh Jackman for 2 1/2 hours. He is just so yummy. And speaking with his normal, Aussie accent. Thought I died and went to Aussie heaven...
Four Christmases was really funny. I quite enjoyed it. It also has a nice, underlying theme of family which touched my heart. Definitely recommend this one.
After the movies were over I went home and called my brother's house. I'd been texted that morning by my niece Daely and she told me that everyone was going over Blaine's for dinner. so I called, and I got to talk to four nephews, four nieces, three brothers, and two sisters(in-law). so much fun. I was on the phone for an hour and 40 minutes (my phone keeps track of that sort of thing). It was amazing. But I am highly reassured that they are all doing well. I invited some of the older ones to come stay with me; we'll see if that happens. I warned the oldest nephew to try not to be a part of the Single Adult program (he has 3 more years as a YSA), and that I was one of the reasons that it was so scary. My niece Danja is *so* close to putting in her papers for her mission it is really great. I'm so excited for her!
Friday I basically sat on my couch all day long, only getting up to let the cat in and out. I caught up on all the tv shows I had recorded the previous week, and watched "I could never be your Woman" from my blockbusteronline. It was an ok movie. Not sure how it ended up on my list, but the guy was cute, and Tracy Ulman wasn't too bad as Mother Nature. Michelle Pfieffer is still as gorgeous as ever.
Saturday I worked in my yard for about 2 hours (hey, I earned 5 activity points). I also went to see Twilight (finally, I know!) My friend Tracy invited me to join her and Vanessa's families, and I invited my friend Tess who I knew wanted to see it as well. We took up a whole row in the theater, and easily outnumbered everyone else there put together (ok, well, it was the dinner show, but I can't say I'm surprised it's not doing as well as last weekend). It was better than I'd expected, after reading through many mixed reviews. I was a bit shocked by Carlisle's face when he first showed up (he looked more like a ghost than a vampire with all that white make-up on his face), and the glitter part with Edward in the sun didn't look amazing to me, just kind of weird. The girl playing Bella indeed only had two expressions (sullen, and I think she smiled once), but she managed to carry the part ok. Thought Edward and Jasper's hair was weird-looking, but I really liked Jacob. Ok, so you may already know I'm a Jacob girl, so was predisposed to like him, but still. The boy was pretty cute. And I love long hair on men, and he took care of that fetish too... (and people wonder why I'm still single)
Sunday was the first Sunday in many weeks that I did not have rehearsal in VA for the SA choir I'm in. Well, I missed the previous two Sundays due to illness and the SA dinner, but that doesn't mean there wasn't rehearsal. Can I tell you how nice it was to just stay home? I read my book for my Wednesady book club, and worked on the Soldier Quilts (the never-ending project). My Home Teachers came over and helped me take a tick off of Kitty (I'm such a city girl I'd never even seen a tick before, so had no idea what it was or what to do about it). Kitty's ok, but she was mad at me for quite a while. I might rename her to Chili. That's what one of my home teachers, Chuck Barron, calls her. course, he calls her that because he wants to *make* chili out of her... but she does have a spicy temperament. Chili may suit her better than Padme.
Monday night was SA FHE at the Johnsons this month. I really enjoy going to families' homes for FHE. I'm a little sad because I kind of doubt the new Ward SA Rep will keep it going (she doesn't seem to like it, and the other rep is kind of hit-or-miss). I'm the only one that attends regularly, and I will miss it if they don't do it next year, but maybe I can still bug the Edwards' from time to time. And maybe the Whipple's, too.
Alas, this week is entirely too busy with rehearsals and performances (the Mormon Choir of Washington, DC, is singing at the temple's Lighting Ceremony on Thurs and Fri, and at the Oakton Stake on Sat, so we're rehearsing tonight). Next week will be much better, though. Which is really good since I may fill up my DVR this week with no time to watch anything...
Australia was very good. It's almost like two movies in one, so when you think it's over, it's really not. My nephews were a little confused by that, but since I knew it was about 2 1/2 hours long and it hadn't been long enough, I was good. Plus, I really couldn't pass up the chance to watch Hugh Jackman for 2 1/2 hours. He is just so yummy. And speaking with his normal, Aussie accent. Thought I died and went to Aussie heaven...
Four Christmases was really funny. I quite enjoyed it. It also has a nice, underlying theme of family which touched my heart. Definitely recommend this one.
After the movies were over I went home and called my brother's house. I'd been texted that morning by my niece Daely and she told me that everyone was going over Blaine's for dinner. so I called, and I got to talk to four nephews, four nieces, three brothers, and two sisters(in-law). so much fun. I was on the phone for an hour and 40 minutes (my phone keeps track of that sort of thing). It was amazing. But I am highly reassured that they are all doing well. I invited some of the older ones to come stay with me; we'll see if that happens. I warned the oldest nephew to try not to be a part of the Single Adult program (he has 3 more years as a YSA), and that I was one of the reasons that it was so scary. My niece Danja is *so* close to putting in her papers for her mission it is really great. I'm so excited for her!
Friday I basically sat on my couch all day long, only getting up to let the cat in and out. I caught up on all the tv shows I had recorded the previous week, and watched "I could never be your Woman" from my blockbusteronline. It was an ok movie. Not sure how it ended up on my list, but the guy was cute, and Tracy Ulman wasn't too bad as Mother Nature. Michelle Pfieffer is still as gorgeous as ever.
Saturday I worked in my yard for about 2 hours (hey, I earned 5 activity points). I also went to see Twilight (finally, I know!) My friend Tracy invited me to join her and Vanessa's families, and I invited my friend Tess who I knew wanted to see it as well. We took up a whole row in the theater, and easily outnumbered everyone else there put together (ok, well, it was the dinner show, but I can't say I'm surprised it's not doing as well as last weekend). It was better than I'd expected, after reading through many mixed reviews. I was a bit shocked by Carlisle's face when he first showed up (he looked more like a ghost than a vampire with all that white make-up on his face), and the glitter part with Edward in the sun didn't look amazing to me, just kind of weird. The girl playing Bella indeed only had two expressions (sullen, and I think she smiled once), but she managed to carry the part ok. Thought Edward and Jasper's hair was weird-looking, but I really liked Jacob. Ok, so you may already know I'm a Jacob girl, so was predisposed to like him, but still. The boy was pretty cute. And I love long hair on men, and he took care of that fetish too... (and people wonder why I'm still single)
Sunday was the first Sunday in many weeks that I did not have rehearsal in VA for the SA choir I'm in. Well, I missed the previous two Sundays due to illness and the SA dinner, but that doesn't mean there wasn't rehearsal. Can I tell you how nice it was to just stay home? I read my book for my Wednesady book club, and worked on the Soldier Quilts (the never-ending project). My Home Teachers came over and helped me take a tick off of Kitty (I'm such a city girl I'd never even seen a tick before, so had no idea what it was or what to do about it). Kitty's ok, but she was mad at me for quite a while. I might rename her to Chili. That's what one of my home teachers, Chuck Barron, calls her. course, he calls her that because he wants to *make* chili out of her... but she does have a spicy temperament. Chili may suit her better than Padme.
Monday night was SA FHE at the Johnsons this month. I really enjoy going to families' homes for FHE. I'm a little sad because I kind of doubt the new Ward SA Rep will keep it going (she doesn't seem to like it, and the other rep is kind of hit-or-miss). I'm the only one that attends regularly, and I will miss it if they don't do it next year, but maybe I can still bug the Edwards' from time to time. And maybe the Whipple's, too.
Alas, this week is entirely too busy with rehearsals and performances (the Mormon Choir of Washington, DC, is singing at the temple's Lighting Ceremony on Thurs and Fri, and at the Oakton Stake on Sat, so we're rehearsing tonight). Next week will be much better, though. Which is really good since I may fill up my DVR this week with no time to watch anything...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)