The Pioneer Woman Rocks SF!

Well! Heather and I made the trek to my city by the bay!

We went,we ate, we poligriped a bridge back in, we saw, we signed, we snapped pics.. we conquered!

 THAT dear blog readers was more fun than a barrel of monkeys!!!

Ms Ree did not disappoint! Despite the crowds and heat from them, we got to visit with her, ask stupid questions, and meet her punks too!I have enjoyed many a cuppa or two reading Pdub's blog with many a tickle to go with it!

Her cookbook was cute and I'll bet this new book "From Black Heels to Tractor Wheels" will be a hoot!

I cant wait to read it, altho I must admit I would prefer it on Audio, but how would I have gotten THAT signed? Thank you H for the book and the company. Where we going next month?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qmV9PckK3k

Bullet Proof Vest Or????? Happy Birthday Daniel!

Walking weights?

Answer is....................Walking weights! I gotta get me one of these! Not that I dont have ENOUGH weight to carry around eh? My Sis has a goal. Lose all body fat before she vacations in the Bahamas this summer. Alrighty then... I would just like to lose some poundage to quilt easier! I have never seen one of these have you? It weighs a ton too!!! LOL I have to tell you that when she came out wearing this yesterday I nearly peed my pants laughing. Thoughts drifted to the day before in my OWN FRONT YARD 4 of Stocktons finest Police cars doing something near the condo next to me! I thought wow.. maybe I should get a bullet proof vest!

I SO WANT TO GO HOME!!! I hate this place. No matter how I try to bloom where I'm planted... THIS is beyond me.

Why cant I just win a little lottery ticket and take my friends ad family to the coast, buy a Smurf compound and live happily ever after? I'm just sayin!!!!

I'll take them with me K? Please??? Hear me sweet Universe of mine? Ask, believe, receive? I'm ON IT!!!

Happy Birthday Daniel!!!

Time keeps marching on and these grands of mine make me older Wiser!!!

Have a great Pizza Night Daniel!

M & M's

Is it still Monday? I know I'm late. Just home and I have a cold. I got THICK! I thought it was just vallergies, but its really a full blown head cold. GRUNT. I gots green tea ,warm pup across my feet, and a laptop. I'll be okay right? We had a good time ending with a picnic with Ma. Onward............
Other news My temporary bridge didnt go the distance. 4 days short of my mold for the permenant one! Yep yep yep... I feel look like Sloth! I'll be taking my Sloth self to the coast and get if fixed in a few days.
HEY!!! I took Heather to her very first crab feed and guess what? WE WON STUFF! I won a smoking hot red handbag with a zebra flower and some wine.. Heather won candles.. and a nice chicky won my dancer quilt. A great night. I enjoyed visiting Livermore. A quaint lil city, reminded me of Danville. I looked for Alex Anderson, but.. nope.. she didnt come to the crab feed?
I need to rest up. I have aq busy day as Heather and I will embark on yet another journey tomorrow! Did I tell you about The Pioneer Womans book signing in SF? Well, she and I (H) are going! Roadtrip!

M & M's include

Crab feeds!!
Good friends & family

The Year Without Ma

"Happiness is a butterfly, which, when pursued, is always just beyond your grasp, but which, if you sit down quietly, may alight upon you."
 Nathaniel Hawthorne

I made a plan. I'm gonna go spend time with my Sissy and family, do a matinee and a nice meal out. We will laugh, we will remember, and we will dish some dirt. Then take some popcorn and flowers over to Mom's resting site and tell her all about the day. I think she will like that. She will especially like that we are doing what we all love to do, and doing it on Super Bowl Sunday to boot!! I will tell her of all the smiles for the year, and breeze by all of the tears. I know that she is more than likely aware of all of it ( she always knew) But I'm gonna tell her anyway. I'm almost certain that she knew each and everytime I reached for the phone to call her for advise, a recipe, a landing, a craving for a banan split, or just a good cry. I will thank her for keeping her promise of always being with me,and especially for showing where her walnut herb dressing recipe went, but I will scold her for no tamales this year. This will definetley start an arguement over why I didnt do it my damn self. I will ask her repeatedly if she is with my boy and if all is well. I will beg for an answer by any means. She will probobly skirt that subject and begin tongue wagging me about not taking care of myself this year. I can even hear my middle name and see an eyebrow in full raise.It will be a good day. It will be a rough day.I will make tons of promises, and she will hold me to them. I will forever miss you Ma, stay with me K?
If ONLY I could plan February 12th so easily right? Clic

What You Doing Today?



The best exercise for the heart is to reach down and lift someone else up.

"Tim Russert".

It just occurred to me that I dont usually blog on Saturdays... hmmmm I wonder why not? I do the same coffee routine right? I'll ponder that.This morning I'm treating myself to some Kona beans fresh ground. Ummmm reminds me of Maui... oh.. reminds me of Maui... CLIC
So what are you doing? Making yummy super bowl menu items? Planning the perfect Valentines Day gifts? Housekeeping? I am making a plan now... Top of my list is to find a date for tonights crab feed in Livermore...lol  Who wants to go? I am going to attempt grooming Ginger via YouTube. ( ssshhh dont tell her K), Laundry, cleaning and oiling Greta Gammil, and a little lap top quilting.. oh yes! QVC is going to be with me all day too..lol Company!:::thats disgustingly sad). I woke up with the sneezy sniffles.. I hope its allergies. Hope Hope.I have absolutley no patience for becomming sick.
Now... I would really rather be doing other things, like shopping! Yep yep yep... I want to do Costco and spend a perverse amout of money..lol Oh! Oh! I know! I wish to be in Arroyo Grande doing the same thing at Marshalls! I would buy a cartful of Valentines dresses! No wait! I would go right down the street here to my jeweler and pick up Pandora charms for all of my Valentines!!! GRUNT. ::sigh:: I think that would be so much fun dont you? Just choosing those charms for all that I LUB. Beats the hell out of a pajama gram wouldnt you agree? Speaking of.... WHAT women really want one of those pajama grams anyway??? Geez... might as well be a Snuggie. I get a tickle from these commercials though. I imagine all kinds of things! One of my favorites is "HE WENT TO JARED"S!!" Geez... Men, call me! I will take you to the nearest Pandora dealor K? Step away from the pajama gram!
 I have decided to become a frugal freak instead. I joined a site too.. really! I guess I dont want to talk about that since I am in need of retail therapy. Its probably because I missed Mr Wizard this week huh? Yep.. lets call it that. Did you people miss Tell All Tuesday? I knew that you would:) I kinda missed it too. My mistake in scheduling, I'm on it though!
I guess I better GET on it and GET busy. Happy weekend dear blog readers, LYG!

Crab Feed Donation Quilt

OMGoodness someone take the damn camera away from me! I dont think I could take a decent photo if I had a pro over my shoulder!! My Phone camera stinks. My Oly is Broky, and Walt sent home my old favorite, and its THIS picture, so I guess you KNOW what that means? Yeh! Me too! I stink!

This queen is the first of 2 crab feed quilts for thier silent auction. My cousin Glenda ( better known as super Mom me thinks) is heading up the Feed for her Daughter Rileys dance Troupe. ( do ya spell it that way? ) Those STARS look like dancers on there right??? Anyway... Its in Livermore and I'm afraid that I wont make this one. Hopefully the next!
I am also in hopes of it fetching good monies for the charity. I know that the Epilepsy Foundation quilt always knocks my socks off with the proceeds. If ya ask me, the way to go on these is photo memory quilts. Pics of all the "players" of said group. THEY are always a 6 Hankie Win! Really, the sales are through the roof trying to win a pic of their childs mug on a quilt! Its a wonderful fundraiser peoples!
Okay, I'm burning the midnight oil with the next one:)
Love yer guts!

Craigs List Quilter

"Happiness is neither virtue nor pleasure nor this thing nor that

 but simply growth.

We are happy when we are growing."
– William Butler Yeats

Mornin`.. Wanna hear a story of what NOT to do on Craigs list? Ok.. grab a cuppa...
In an effort to promote even more local business, I posted an ad on Craigs List for my services. Yes I did. Wierd, but true. I've been doing a bunch of strange things this year, beleive me! So I'm driving my happy ass home from the coast (I say happy because I got some sun!) and my phone rings. Now calm down I am in the middle of nowhere without a car in sight. I answer it.
Caller, Hi, this is Tiffany and I have a lap top to be quilted, can you fit me in?
M: <smirking at "fit in"> Sure, how about tomorrow , would you lke 3 or 4 pm? ( I believe in choices ya know)
Caller: I'll take 3 pm, whats your address?
Me: I GAVE IT TO HER
Caller, ok, see u then
Me: Tiffany? Which quilt shop referred you to me?
Caller: Oh, no shop.. Craigs list
Me: <pulling car over> OIC, okkkkkk see you then.

Now I am in a slight panic. Did I REALLY just give my address to a perfect stranger on craigs list? I THINK I DID!
OK, now I 've done it. Just when I think that the LUCY moves cant get any screwier ( don't use that in scrabble K?) They get screwier!!
I took out my trusty text finger and notified the world around me. An all call to be on alert for 3 pm tomorrow. Do you know where your mother, wife, sister, friend is??? Now its not enough that I haven't slept well in 3 damn years, lets ADD this to the mix! REALLY? I did what? grunt.
Fast forward to film at 11:00 ..............
I was once again lucky in life and I wasnt raped, robbed or murdered. I DID in fact meet a very nice novice piecer on a mission. THANK YOU LORD!
All the text recipients can relax, I'm safe. Will you all please watch me a TAD bit closer? I am a dork!
Now here where I am, reports are on the news nearly nightly of what NOT to do on Craigs list. I am a watcher of said news! Everyday I say.............. whats wrong with me???!!!????

Thoughts

"He who cannot change the very fabric of his thought

 will never be able to change reality."

– Anwar al-Sadat

Second cuppa interesting thought don't you agree? Hmmmm I'm all over it! (as usual)

I woke up this morning with this mad craving for Rissoto with asparagus. Maybe some cream of asparagus soup? How about asparagus with Isralie couscous!!! I wonder if your body calls out for veggies like it does RED MEAT? Its true! I always know when I need a iron boost. Don't you? Hey! speaking of irons.......... I always get a tickle to read in a quilter blog the perils of finding the right iron. Boring yet important information to we quilters eh? Well, I get to talk about it now!!! I promise not to bore you though. I just think THIS warrants chat. Heres the back story: Ten years ago I bought a Rowenta pro. Last year it died. I replaced with inexpensive Sunbeam. Its just OKAY. I couldnt afford to replace my Rowenta yet.

Heres the front story: Walt had fun on QVC, was feeling romantic generous, and bought for me this AMAZING ( read Sarah word) New Rowenta PINK POINTY PRO! I think its officially called a steaminator or something? Boasting 1800 watts of mind blowing steam...lol ( hand blowing!!) I'm seriously loving this iron! Mind you only binding has happened so far, so I would like to reserve my further reviews for when I attack a back or something K? Gettinginto miters, all collars and corners and inbetween buttons is going veryyyy nicelyyyyyyy!
Meanwhile, I better hush now as not to bore you as promised:) I am in hopes that THIS Rowenta will go 10 years too!

Ok, I'm up.. I'm going... I'm gone!

Exsisting vs Living M & M's

There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama, and those who create it. You surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good. So, love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't. Life is too short to be anything but happy. Falling down is part of LIFE...Getting back up & moving forward is LIVING
Anddddd you missed me right? Its been a very long week end and I have been digging myself out of a hole and doing all of my homework too. I visited the coast and absolutley drowned myself in as much sun as my lil body could hold. Did I mention that I miss home? Yeh, I do. Right now I am looking out my foggy window and I think I lost my dog in it. Wow... Speaking of holes... THIS may be the very HOLE I feel! CLIC

Its February 1st. January is done. Thank God. The journal pages changed, the month locked and gone. Again, moving forward.
Did you hear about the Pioneer Woman's book signing in San Francisco next week? Wanna go? I do! Her blog style cracks me up at least once a week!  Go Ree!!!

Tuesday, February 08, 2011
07:00 PM
BOOKS INC
Books Inc. at Opera Plaza 601 Van Ness San Francisco, CA 94102

I am hot on a quilt this morning! I think I have some mojo! Gotta run!
M & M's:

3 days of real sleep,snuggling and sunshine
A Pink Pointy new Iron:)

It's Thursday, WTH Am I Doing?

Make a list.

Check it often.

Dont forget personal stickies all over the house!

Have 4 calendars going between Dayplanner, Smart phone, desk top and laptop!

switch rings on fingers .....

But above all else.............

Thats my story and I'm sticking to it!

Guess Who's Happy Birthday It Is?

Only one of the greatest women of the world!

Or is that quilter? Oh no, I think its friend... no... maybe its Mom, grandmom, sista or Aunti?

How about just great!

Happy Birthday Dear Ronda!

 I love ya!

Identity Fit & Mr Wizard /TaT

Upon further contimplation (cause thats what I do) ( while boiling eggs) I have decided that I have my foot firmly planted in an identity threat. Now WHO needed a team of shrinks for that? I knew the answer would come!Yes, it is entirely possible that I've lost whats left of my mind. But.........
Now one could call it meaningful collaboration with Mr Wizard, but frankly, THIS never came up.
What if.......... You were shook to your very core with loss,(es) death,(s) change,(es) fear, and add in a threat to your forever happy place?
So I'm quilting away over there, having a little hissy fit with a variegated silky thread. It wouldn't give me perfect tension and I was talking to it as though it were my first born. I had to stop and snicker because I remembered in the beginning how when this happened to me I would find a wall, slink down onto the floor, and bawl for awhile. How far I had come from those days. I actually evolved and BECAME a quilter. I wasn't born that way ya know. I was always somebody else until my quilting journey began. So and So's Mom. So and So's wife. Manager of... Food & Beverage director Of...Innkeeper For.... Even Owner Of....I had IDENTITIES. One day, it turned into that long arm quilter over there... Oh you know Dear Gina.. the quilter from yada yada yada....I found contentment in my identity. I found peace within my realm of colleagues. Then all hell seemed to have broken loose upon the tragic, untimely loss of my son. From that moment in time nothing right can be found. Nothing normal. Not even new normals, unless you would like to call CHANGE a new normal. However, I digress. Who was I now? The Mother of that poor boy? :::God I miss him so much I ache all the time::: WHO could keep track? With all of the moves and changes I think my identity has been IS BEING threatened and I am having an internal fit to defend and protect. WHO wouldn't protect their own identity? I had a good friend say nothing less than earth shattering words to me. "G, I don't think you want to quilt anymore". Another one said, "Hey sell your shit, get bitchy, and go make the big bucks again". And of course, the ALL TIME hair raiser, " Why don't you just go get a real J.O.B.". I was scared! I was am pissed! JUST because I have artistic discord does not equate to identity in trash can. Now, how exactly to locate that artistic harmony is anybodies guess eh? Where's my damn globe? I need it. I need to paste some spots on it. I figured something out. YAY me!
I'm sorry, but THIS identity I shall fight for to the death, and that's all I have to say about that.
 LAQ
Todays session with Mr Wizard was part two in a series of debate. I think that I failed that, AGAIN!

Crab Feed Number One /M & M's

G'morning:) I'm on my second pot, looking for the buzz.. I think I need to switch to expresso! I am fumbling in the shop trying to load a quilt but keep getting sidetracked organizing thread. Thread makes me happy, so its all good..lol I am in search of a perfect thread choice for my Crab Feed Donation quilt. A silent Auction for my cousin Glendas charity event.I took an underwear day yesterday, so I'm trying to find"doubletime" today. I needed it. Or I just didnt give a flying fart one... I dunno.
Jake was in town on Saturday and we went to a crab feed with Karen and Becca too.  I had such a good time that I guess I lost my crab tool box full of pics, crackers and tongs... dang it! Anyway...We had a great time and then went to see Kim ( heathers Kim) play his guitar at a local pub. I personally love his mellow acoustic more, but this was fun too. I tried very hard to have a totally different week end than last week... Maybe if I hit a crab feed every week end I will fake it til I make it? lol It could happen?Hey! I have so many UFO's going on I could donate to every one of them! I think my favorite will always be the SLO feed. I Miss home....CLIC
I will leave you with a picture and get my butt moving... or try!

M & M's:
A visit with Jake
Crab Feed number 1
Flowers for me on a Monday:)
The bird quilt done!
wow... hard and it shouldnt be...............
**EDIT** My poor BFF who has to deal with my self absorbed self on a weekly basis called my attention to yet another M & M. I am ashamed of myself:(
I had a wonderful time watching her Kim happily play his guitar after the crab feed and I saw a familiar look on his face. It was a look of sheer pleasure of enjoying his art. I dont know if I wanted to join him on stage, or just line up more events to see! Either way, it was truly part of my gratitudes for the week. Kim ya wanna team up?

ok, one more... THIS little pistal!

Human Bird Quilt

G`morning:) I tried to get a decent shot of this for ya but I guess I am camera phone impaired? I have used flash on/off...scenes.. nights... close.. far... NO CAN DO? I think that Avianas swear jar might very well turn into a Nonni camera jar! ( oh wait, I already robbed it.. chit.)
Its a 60 inch square wall hanging of needle turned applique human birds. I NEED it to be over today. I must get back to my Blue Beauty. Dont ya love zippered leaders??? Its really tough here since space is compromised but I still manage to drag my leaders around..lol The other night I had such a mess in the shop that I couldnt even hop around dancing to that new song Heather introduced me to.. Hey mama! Hey mama! I tell ya, that song and 2 cups of coffee theres no end to the JUMPING possibilities!
I made a dr. appt. Now I`m making a list!  It could be sinus related? Maybe it could all resolve with sun. I have no idea. They tell me that we should get some late today. I sure hope so. I`m on the rdge, I swear.
Okay, I am going to drag myself to it... TGIF Peeps! CLICK THIS!!!( I double dog dare you not to bounce something!)

Send a Happy Thought?

"We cannot do everything at once but we can do something at once."
Calvin Coolidge

Morning.... my coffee isnt hot. Crap. Why does this happen? I'm so grumpy! I have been having quite a few rough nights. My daughter has me diagnosed with some heart failure stuff..A friend has me walking around with my Moms Diabetes... UG.. I think its par for the course. ( no, I dont play golf so why the hell would I say that?) I know I havent been taking good care of myself. I'm so sick of pain, All of it. in and out. Hmm.. maybe I AM sick of it. Maybe stress really CAN make one sick. I was THIS close to going into the ER last night. I think the only reason I didnt call for help was because I know my iron door is locked! How is anyone to get in? But that was the plan? I need a new game plan. Before I have to go in! My DQL sucks big green wienies! CLIC
I have so much to do today so I better get the self talk talking. Such a cool lie..................But ya lub me right?
Peace out:)

*And THEN I forgot that today is stove demolition day!!! WOW! :::film at 11:00::::

The Debate Team & TaT

"Hope is not a dream, but a way of making dreams become reality."
 Cardinal Leon Joseph Suenens

TaT= tell all Tuesdays, write it down:)

I wanted to discuss this week ends horrid happenings, (not to be confused with my stitch pal, mind u)  however Mr Wizard had a different adgenda.In an effort to calm the voices in Sybils head, he played with the dry erase board for visual aid today. I'm not certain that I would be good on a debate team arguing my point. Or anyone elses. I can site my good ole stand by. My head KNOWS the truths, my HEART refuses to listen. To help to turn down the volume, since we cant seem to shut my head the hell up....we did this.

Defend this statement:

I can effectively and successfully operate a winery.

 you have no education in this field

G: I have 35 years plus in the hospitality industry, it can be adapted into a winery

you have no capital

G: I can enlist investors to increase working capital

but you love to quilt not make wine

G: I will diversify to include my art

you're getting older

G: the older the vine, the sweeter the grape?

This of course is all very hypothetical, I am illustrating the technique. Will it work? I have no idea, but its homework. At any rate, as usual, Mr Wizard has planted a seed, given a tool to ponder. Done. I'm on it. 

Next week, it will be reversed.

I cannot successfully run a winery..... I shall be defending THAT statement. (not really, but its far too personal for TaT)

Maybe when I grow up... I will be a Wizardess!



Gifts Picture!



Hey Gayle, I finally figured out the camera phone, but I gotta tell ya, I MISS MY OLYMPUS!!!
For being such a faithful morning cuppa dear blog reader, I'm sending to you this lucious extra wide yard of double sided coffee suede for maybe one of your amazing art projects:) I fondled it before it was packed up. Right after before I ate this cookie. ( how the hell did THAT get in the pic?) I think you can click on it for enlargement.. not sure? Its on its way to you, and thanks a bunch, LYG!
Gina

Marvelous Monday Gratitudes Are YOU!

"Hem your blessings in thankfullness so they do not unravel."

A.Unknown

Where do I live  now? (HA!) Funny eh? I spent my most of my life firmly placed and now have moved 5 times in as many years! I am now BACK in the central valley near my daughter and family, pining away for the sunshine of the coast!
What was my first blog post about? If Home is where the heart is, I must have 2 of each. Kinda matches above only reversed now. Grunt.

What do I collect? I took a peak.. largest collection of many, FABRIC AND THREAD!!!
newest? Pandora charms!!
What was my first career passion in life, and what is it now?
I dreamt of being Entertainer of the year, and now I dream of being quilter of the year!
What do I do absent mindedly while pondering?
Hard boil eggs and draw happy faces on them!
Descibe your blog buddy (moi) in one word and it cant be trainwreck!
 Many moons ago, Dana ( a foodie friend) called me Effervescent and I am still tickled with this to this day! I find myself striving to honor her TAG. ( how cool is Gretchen eh?)
Whats my favorite day of the week?
Underwear days!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks everyone for playing! That was fun. I used the lil gizmo random Integer thing. Every one was entered twice, and the WIENER is  # 4 Gayle, her second entry! Congrats Gayle, email me your snail mail address for your gift! Yes, I AM TRYING to post a pic but if u remember my lil camera broke :(

 

Golden Globes

Are you watching??? My Fall over song in Burlesque? "You havent seen the last of me" Just won for best orginal song! Woohoo! Go CHER!!! I hope theres a win for Christina in here tonight!!

http://gina-deargina.blogspot.com/2010/11/burlesque-review.html


Now I must go FROG awhile, when I heard the news I screwed up a lil bit... grunt.

I Need A New Lil Camera!!

My lil Oly bit the big one finally:( It was a favorite, it did its job. Now its a big white blur. Dang it. I tried to shoot the new lil human bird quilt with my phone camer.. it stunk. I will keep trying, but On my list besides a new external hard drive is a camera!!!
We had a productive couple days quilting and piecing like crazy! ( me & Linda) I cant wait to get my hands on the black and tan that she is doing! For me.. well... this human bird at only 60 x 60 took forever and a days! Today I am finishing up a Bargello wall hanging, then I must quickly get to work on the Crab Feed donations!!!  I am in hopes of those being well recieved. I have to scoot, I will try to come back later with pics... Happy Sunday, and dont forget the contest entry down there! Do it!
LYG!!
G

:::Contest Alert:::: This Just In!

Hey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just looked at my site metor and guess what? I`m  a few hours away from hitting 100 thousand!!!! I feel generous!! What shall I do??? You guys are so devoted.. Did I mention I love yer guts? I'm so happy to have all of your encouraging words, prayers, emails... messages, phone calls.. WTF would I do without ALL OF YOU!!!
Now listen.. I have a CUPPA ideas of what I want to send to my 100K wiener yet, but theres the clue. So lets see....  how about 2 chances in the hat to win...

How well have you come to know me via a cuppa in the morning?? Answer these 7 lovely questions in honor of 7 Marvelous Monday entries.....quick like a bunny!!

#1
Where do I live  now? (HA!)
What was my first blog post about?
What do I collect?
What was my first career passion in life, and what is it now?
What do I do absent mindedly while pondering?
Descibe your blog buddy (moi) in one word and it cant be trainwreck!
Whats my favorite day of the week?

 #2 clic the follow me button!! Let me know in a separate comment. ( if u are already there, say so!) I 'll put you in twice, and we shall see what I'm sending to ya!!! Hey!!! work done for me!!

I will give the correct answers and the WIENER on Marvelous Monday! Lets have some fun! Cause I NEED IT!!!!

Happy Thursday Morning.. Keyword: HAPPY

"Become so wrapped up in something that you forget to be afraid."
– Lady Bird Johnson

Sometimes ya just wish the qoute of the day would take hold!

I pushed go too soon! lol Wake up Woman, right? I feel ditzy this morning.. I made this long list then started sweating it... so I decided to get dressed instead. I put on this top and cords, looked in the mirror and saw a frog. Yep.. a frog. My Ma in the mirror me thinks. She would always see this whilst wearing green. I quickly changed while laughing. I instead went for the GREY look.. look of the year over here... Jamie's grey sweats always make me feel "homey".. now where's he at..sigh... I suppose he lives with Christmas... in the ole` heart...CLIC

I am expecting a friend this evening! We will sew and yak and hot tub and eat. Its a plan. Notice I DID NOT SAY DRINK NUFFIN. I have a pot of Hamhocks N Beans on. I have no flippin idea if she even likes this? LOL No worries.. I have a Nummy Pasta sauce, and my tortellini zoupa too! ( indecision is my middle name these days eh?) I seriously need a FAT Costco run. Wouldnt it fun just one time to have like a Costco Visa with no limit? Wow, I just had a rush....
I decided one thing for sure. Friends are a wonderful shot in the arm ( heart). I think my next Pandora charm may be a heart.. Just a reminder:)
Time to go blast some P!NK and quilt some birds!
Love yer guts!



Compass

"Morality, like art, means drawing a line someplace."
Oscar Wilde

Not to be confused with a Mariners compass, Mr. Wizard introduced a Moral compass. A way to answer many questions and slow down the racing thoughts. Now I have tried it out on simple things and it worked. The tougher things, not so well yet. But then again, It may be because I am stubborn.

Hypothetical Question: ( has absolutely no bearing on my case...lol)

Your Mother in law wishes to host Christmas this year, taking the torch from you. What is your reply?

Compass:

APPLY Reason/logic

She is getting old, needs to feel needed. She hasn't many more years to do this with her children/grandchildren. but it makes no sense at all when you and your family have established your own traditions and are comfortable with them.

APPLY Intuition/Instinct:

Red Flag! The kids will be confused and out of sync. Bad idea.She may be trying to get back what it took awhile to establish for your own family.

APPLY Emotion/Feeling:

 I understand her need however I too have the need to be Ms Santa in our own home. I would be amiss without the exhilaration routine of the holiday. (Like she did with her young family)

The Answer should now come easily? PHISHAW!!! In my mind, this only brings on MORE questions!

What would husband think of me if I said NO? What if we lost her and I couldn't live with guilt? What if the kids think I'm a Scrooge? Mr Wizards answer to this is of course to make a WHAT IF question and answer page. Well.. Like I dont do that night and day right?

What If?

Pro Con

do, not do

I mean I am an experienced brain stormer! Analyzer! Feed back seeker!

This is so not easy. Grunt. Especially when I am a sun depraved, displaced emotional train wreck remember??? An interesting concept... Imma go pick up my ball, find a few spoons, do 5 minutes of mindfullness,  and do my homework. (Then make some Zoupa while Quilting) GRUNT.

Happy Birthday Sissy! A Marvelous Monday Indeed:)

Happy Birthday Dear Sissy! This may not be the "best" picture I have, but its so "telling" I had to use it! This is her favorite the 3 cats favorite place to sit in the family room. Not pictured is Tori, the Torti, who is the alpha cat and the PITA cat in my book! Not really sure why she loves these guys so much but she sure does! She also has two Border Collies running the land over there... hey, do ya think she likes black and white? All the animals say yes! Oh I think they need a new family photo with the 5 animals and the family dressed in B&W! LOL Happy Birthday Kel! Have a great day!



"Action is the antidote to despair."
 Joan Baez

Who says? Where did she come up with that one anyway? Words to a folk song gone awry? Hmmmmm

Good Monday morning :) I has a rough week end, could ya tell? I did enjoy visiting sis but yesterday was a funky funk beyond all funks! I thought I lost Sis bracelet, I slept too late, I couldnt find motivation on ANY list I had made. I was cranky and weepy all thrown into one frozen G. The first thing this morning that I see is above qoute. I snickered. ( or was that a sneer?)I'm working on a custom and my artwork was becomming a reflection of my mood, so I stopped. Thank God.. I came out this morning, took one look and scratched things! I have decided that its just GOT TO BE lack of sunshine. I'm already geting shots for vitamin D difiencies. I should go find sun lamps.. you know, so I can have an even HIGHER PGE bill! :::Sigh::: some things ya just get used to on the coast eh?I better move my touche and get back to my human bird quilt!

M & M's:

Heated seats in my car

Stitch N Bitch Night

The motion detector light working!

Movie Dates!

My Do it all cell phone:)

Hope

Country Strong Review NO Stars Here

What do you get when you mix EVERY wierd sterotypical thing about country western genre that you have ever heard of and mix it with a super good cast of characters?

COUNTRY STRONG!!

Oh Dear blog readers, believe me, if you are a CW "disliker", and joke about these sterotypes, you are about to be justified!!! All of them are present here except Mama, and YER DAWG! Yep yep yep.. even the train!

Now I gotta tell you that I am a long time "liker"of SOME CW music. I was country WAY back when, and then I decided that the whining slobbering sob stories needed to stop! I still enjoy some, but for the most part, I can leave it. Afterall, I have enough of a dang soap opera right here, I dont need to get a crying towel out to wallow in it with a brewski..

I'm so disappointed for Gwenyth Paltrow because she REALLY can sing! Tim McGraw, please keep singing instead of this K? The new cute kids... I wish you well and hope this didnt ruin your careers.Hey can you tell that I didnt enjoy this film at all? My poor Sis and I just cringed for 2 hours while stuffing popcorn in our pie holes rapidly as not to trash the movie aloud in public! Heres the bad news.. We were supposed to see True Grit!!!

To be fair, Jackie, 17 year old neice.. enjoyed the film. Her go to Genre is the likes of USHER... sooooooooo

Lottery Daydreams & A New Redhead?

 Congratulations to the winners of MY MEGA MILLION JACKPOT! Ahuh... Washington and Idaho's turn. BUT.. A lucky man here in my City won 200K! (yes I wrote down the stores address!)

For me? Well, I LOVE to go into the store to check my ticket in the little machine to see the magic words pop up that say, "YOU"RE A WINNER! The trouble is, its usually a short lived HIGH. This time I saw it, I felt it, and I won 2 big bucks. So I rolled it over to Fridays draw for 12 million! I can live with that too! I'm SO not greedy you know. I'm certain the Smurf house is under 12 Million right? Of course right. In the meantime, I still have a few bucks on Super Lotto too so it can sneak up on me for a surprise:) Ah California Lottery:::sigh::: What a fun distraction you are.
Did you like the Pozole? Did you MAKE some? I think today I will be quilting while making a huge pot of Marinara sauce to put up. I get this great sausage on the coast ( sweet italian) and blend it with hamburger for a mighty good start to pasta sauce! I think I need to go pick up more containers, they seem to disappear at an alarming rate. I called the Karebear and told her to come get some and bring her own bowl, and bring mine back too! Did she do it? No.......grunt. I have a huge list to get to so I will bid you all a great day!
LYG!
G
---------------------------------THIS JUST IN------------------------------------------------
My BLONDE Dear Daughter is now a redhead??? I love it! Hey, she really resembles her Mama now with dark hair! LOL
 Nice Do Karen:)

Chicken Pozole

OK, Its no secret I miss Ma right? I wasnt satisfied with a warm tortilla with butter this morning, so I went to work. While Mom's favorite is Albondigas, or Cocido.. she always made a mean pot of Pozole for the winter blues. I remember that she did this with Pork sometimes, but had to wait a day or so to skim the fat off. She hated pork fat..lol. The way to fix this is....... CHICKEN! I know Ma would be proud when she reads this.. in fact.. she was while it was simmering:) Manja Dear Blog readers...
This comes out spicy, NOT hot. If you prefer, you can omit the Jalepeno for the kiddies.

4  skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch cubes (may use thigh meat instead)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 large onions, chopped ( I prefer Maui sweets)
1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1 small jalapeño pepper,roasted, seeded and chopped
2 tablespoons ground cumin
3 tablespoons New Mexico chili powder ( Lord I love red chili)
2 tablespoons chopped fine- garlic
1 15 ounce can roasted diced green chili's (Ortega is my "go to") ( Dont tell MA cause she roasted her own Aneheim chilis)
1 cup crushed tomatoes ( she roasted these too, but I used a can! ssshhh)
8 cups chicken broth
1 30 ounce can golden or white hominy (I like white)
Sea Salt and course grind pepper to taste
------------------------------------------------------------
1/4 cup roughly chopped cilantro leaves
1/2 cup chopped green onions, with tops
Dollop of Sour cream
 Some say shredded cabbage atop this lovely bowl is delish, I havent tried, but I love cabbage!!

Pour the oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot and heat over medium heat.
Season the chicken pieces with your favorite "go to" seasoning. Add to the pot and sauté until well-browned. Transfer the meat to a bowl and set aside.
Add the onions, minced garlic, red pepper and jalapeño to the pot and brown until golden. (about 8-10 min)
When the onion begins to caramelize, and the kitchen is lit up in fragrance, pour yourself another glass of wine and delight in your accomplishments.. then return the meat to the pot, sprinkle with the cumin and chili powder, stir in green chilies and tomatoes. Marvel at the aroma now huh!!!
Add the chicken broth plus 2 cups of water, bring it to a boil over high heat. Lower heat and let the chili simmer, partially covered, for one hour.
Add the hominy. Continue to cook approximately 15 minutes.
Taste and adjust the seasoning ( S & P) and top with minced cilantro, minced green onions and a dollop of sour cream in each bowl. Dont forget the tortillas! I like a handmade white corn tortilla myself:) WITH BUTTER.. jis sayin?

I'm Sorry Means

Expressing or inclined to express an apology
Feeling or expressing regret for one's sins or misdeed.

Whats it mean to you? For me, it means, "I didnt mean to do that, and I damn sure that I won't do it again.

It shouldnt happen again, should it? Sometimes it does.

Today I leaned about the F2F Study. (fight 2 fun:::wink:::) Its research on the good times outweighing the bad and vice versa. What ratio it takes to repair erosion's. How the ratio can fluctuate due to I'm sorrys gone bad. Seriously interesting stuff. I have homework, of course. I shall call it, working on wording...lol Power, pleasure, pain..... Heather would just love it.

I feel like making some soup.. maybe Pozole. You peoples like Pozole? I will type it out if I make it ok? Also.. I think a big batch of sauce to freeze for pastas.. I have no idea why I keep cooking.. maybe its like my boiling eggs.. Just gotta bang some cupboards and create. Speaking of creating, I think my stitch n bitchers need to kick my butt into creating in the correct room! I have come to a point where there is so much that needs my attention that its much like racing thoughts... racing things!

M & M's For The New Year

I think I'm a day late because of my new Droid phone? Will you all buy THAT excuse? Well... its true Imma trying to learn it! Popcorn prayer, "please let me always keep learning new stuff as I grow older". Just when I figured out the Blackberry, I got twinkly eyed over the Droid. So here we go! I am amazed at how it syncs with my calender and emails, etc... I have been reminding myself daily to go and pick up a new day planner and last night it dawned on me... WHY? ( no longer nessesary). Now, if only I could get that Words with Friends game downloaded eh? Grunt. Thank you Dear Walt, for the super sized planner:) Happy New Year to me.
(PS: you wouldnt believe the sound coming from this lil Droid!!)
OK, Holidays over.. geez, thank goodness. Onto the next. I think right now its Mega Million Alert!! 330 million! Smurf house here I come! I have 9 bucks on it now... its all mine:) I think I will buy a FLEET of longarms in different colors...LOL Hows that for a dream? You know that Smurf house is a perfect quilt retreat too... sigh....
Much to do today as I am behind on quilting and its Mr Wizard day too. I want to make a soup tonight, so we shall see. I have a craving for Chicken Pozole, yummmmmm.
Have a great day, I will return with tell all Tuesday!
M & M's Include

NOT the rain
NOT the fog either
NOT S.A.D.

A mega million imagination
My new pocket Pal
Safe travels
Good Ginger Sitters
Lots of thread choices for today!

Dear 2010, You Havent Seen The Last Of Me

"Man can only become what he can consciously imagine."

Dan Rudhyer

Dear 2010, I have so loathed you. Nearly as much as 2008 and more than 2009. I am so happy to say Adios`.

I KNOW that 2011 will bring its own adventures, and the journey will continue for me God willing, so I am ready. Bring it!
As many of you know, I save blogabouts for THEE BOOK.. you know.. when I’m old and wearing purple. So here is a recap of this bloody year.:

• Had my brother and sis in law in from Alaska
• Ended the visit abruptly when Mom fell ill
• Stayed with my Sis & family to care for Mom for the last month of her life
• Laid our Mother to rest.
• Came back to Pismo to begin piecing my world back together (again)

• Got a new cool car.. my beloved tank
  
• Quilted 3, count em 3 show quilts
  
• Made arrangements for kids to come and stay in our home.
• Watched the entire season of LOST on DVD and was mesmerized
• I swatted my baby grand girl, and it still hurts. ( me)
  
• Won a ribbon for a quilt Mid State Fair
• Took a HOT trip to Palm Springs to watch my Grand Girl compete in a beauty contest
• Got hooked on Bejewelled on Facebook
• Got hooked on The Sopranos, via net flicks
  
• Rented out rooms to tenants and became a half ass B & B ( again)
  
• Separated from my Walt to help heal each other (?)
  
• Was given a human angel, I think from Mom
  
• Left one home on the central coast, to come back to another on central valley
  
• Began treatment with 4th Shrink, finally one thats working!! ( without meds!!!)
  
• Became friends with a customer and will win more ribbons!
  
• Won ANOTHER ribbon at Pacific International Quilt Festival
• Had a health scare of a breast cancerous tumor (benign)
  
• Quilted 2 more show quilts (cross fingers)
  
• Kept up with blogabouts, no matter the trauma I go through
  
• Went to visit my soul sista Ronda in Oregon, and I didn’t discover QVC. Noooo I didnt!
  
• Had the ::hands down::: weirdest holidays EVER in my life.
• Got sick, but not TOO sick like 2008/9 thanks to Zicam and Airbourne.. ( or straight up pissiness)
  
• Experienced Christmas through the community outreach of others for distant kids.
• (space saved for NYE Edit...lol)

In summary,the winds of change blew strong... waves broke the shore with a fury as the footprints in the sand washed away. :::WAV:::
Years End Theme Song is.................. drum roll please..................









2011 Goals

• Get off the "ON HOLD" place
• work on the book
• Fight not freeze
• Pay closer attention to my health. IMPROVE IT
• Enter MY OWN quilt in a show
• Buy ONLY what I love.
• Throw out, what I do not love
• Teach, :::read:grow::: more quilters!!
• Attend a professional quilt show, attend classes there
• Upgrade my longarm
• Improve my studio
• reunite past things loved
• Have a celebration for each loved ones birthday
• Go to Harlows, and Mortens for dinner
• Read more audio books
• Buy something from QVC, hopefully a jacket I cannot forget! (ok, and some make up)
• Re visit Hawaii
• Get prices on body work, make a list.

I have a bazillion more than this... but it will have to wait for the NEXT list!

Happy New Year to you all, may it be a blessed one for you and yours:) :::& Mine:::

Some Homework Could Include Retail Therapy!!

Goodie for me! Finally Mr Wizard gives me some homework that I'm good at!!!
This globe is representative of my world. Notice the shatter.
Now, I have had this ball (my world) FALL many a times, causing shatter. As I pick up my ball, try to walk, while paper mache`-ing the pieces back together, the damn thing just falls again,and again, and I cannot keep the pasties going on fast enough.Result? Train wreck. (that would be me). No matter how fast I try put the pieces back on, it just aint happening. Now.. also note that the shatters.. cracks.... are forever there, yet it is still quite beautiful isnt it?
While Mr. Wizard doesnt get the credit for introducing this concept, ( Heather does) he does in fact get credit for the elaboration of the idea. The "HOW TO's, after the fact. Its very interesting.
Anyway... I now have a tanngible visualization of the entire way it works. The chic under the globe, well, thats me.. and the wise ole owl next to her? Its me too. What a freaking journey eh? Serious book I tell you. I have a few other projects for the week too but I dont get to shop. (rats). I find it odd that I get stuck on some of Mr Wizards words such as tangled... untangled... in a holding pattern.. Hub of the family, and todays word of the day... TRAIN WRECK. Geez. I have NEVER in my life been refferred to as a train wreck. Grunt. Really?
Today, we have a hellofa storm going on. Lights off and on, wind howling, and the rain is challenging the wind for noise levels. All  I have to say about that is..... IT BETTER NOT BLOW OVER MY DAMN BALL!

Did We Make It Through? M & M's

I did! Alert the media! Call Live Copter 3 for Petes sake! Wow, what a ride eh? I may say that the journey is everything, but with me its just get in, sit down, shut up, and hold on!
I had a nice time with kids on Christmas eve, and spent some good work time with Walt. Mr. Wizard will be proud of the accomplishments when we chat tomorrow. (film at 11:00) We enjoyed a fabulous meal that I DIDNT cook at Papapovlos yesterday.. Best rack of lamb with a port reduction sauce I have had in a very long time! ( gotta love greek food eh)
Now it is back to my Quilting, planning, and self work. I am contemplating reviving an old New Years tradition of my own version of "the year in pictures". We always drag out every picture in the year, re live them, sort them, archive them or frame them and its quite therapeutic. I'm giving this more thought as we also lost Mom this year, so that isnt going to be an easy task at all. We'll see. I am concentrating (trying to) on the future, and packing away the past. Or as it has been said... Opening the door, walking through it,.. so that I may get to somewhere else. ( in one piece)
Was Santa good to you peoples? He is always to me too:) I got some yummy fabrics for a new project, a new beachable jacket,my cracked up blackberry replaced, and my secret wish list treat the Pandora Bracelet! I will have serious pleasure watching it grow! My grands had fun with their gifts, in fact, Aviana has YET to remove her new Lady Bug boots! lol Ginger is enjoying 2 things that we cannot decide which is her favorite. A squeaky toy FAR bigger than she is.... or the prime rib bone!!
Now.. having said all that.. I gotta tell ya, I DO NOT understand the news blurps about retailers reporting best sales in 3 years!!! WTH? This is the worst as far as I can remember! I'm not talking about emotionaly, I mean monetarily!! Am I wrong? Every single person I know is squeezing that buck like never before so I just dont get the news reports at all.
I am off to night quilt....cause thats how I roll.... I plan to have a Stitch N Bitch this week too!
Love year guts, let me know your exciting ( or not) NY plans so I can live vicariously through YOU!

M & M's include:

New tools. New skills. New ways to ponder the rebirth of wonder. ( I know, u gotta be me to get that)
Icecubes!
Lights!
The great boot find.
rack of lamb... omgoodness yum.
No snow here

side note, please oh please send me some sun my vitamin D levels are suffering!!! ( remember the shots I endured??? No moreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Where Are You Christmas?

My world keeps changing. Christmas must change too. I remember the laughter, the thrills..cooking, singing.... the shopping. Now, Christmas is still here everywhere, but where did MY Christmas go?

I looked in my cupboards and couldn't find Christmas there..I stuck a Charlie Brown fake tree up as directed by Mr Wizard, but I couldnt find Christmas there. So I went shopping. I wasn't finding Christmas anywhere! One stop was at Campbell's in the Village, and the band that was playing out front made me smile, and remember. I walked inside to be greeted by an elf with a Hershey's kiss. I just KNEW Christmas must be in here somewhere.

I hunted for 3 hours. NEVER before have I shopped in one place for 3 hours. I found comfort in memories there, I talked to people as if I had never met a stranger, however I didn't find Christmas.
Now sometimes, people just get so far down in their own crap, they forget about others. My mind KNOWS Christmas is forever changed, and the losses in the past few years are just too much to bare at times BUT... others suffer too. (my head knows this!) I silently spoke to those I have lost... they didnt tell me where Christmas went either.
I really wish to tell you where I found Christmas, cause you knew I would.

Was it in a little city in Idaho? You may remember that my X had a near death extended stay in the hospital which made the kids come a runnin` from all over. This caused a great financial burden on all fronts. My youngest soldier son Jake and his family in particular. Especially with a new long lining job. They travelled home (Middleton, ID) knowing Dad would be ok, and they had helped. Christmas however,was lost for them for 2010.

I had been admiring Heathers post on facebook about "doing" the impossible. She has been E mail marketing the "unthinkable" people in hopes to get responses for her Library. My impossible happens to be helping anyone monetarily or emotionally this year. I wake up trying to help myself... go G go...
So I wrote a letter to the Mayor and to the the Chamber of Commerce of this little city. I told them about the gut wrenching problem at hand. I didnt even share with them the loss (S) our family has endured. To my surprise, and the families surprise.. someone heard me! I had calls and e mails... That city is at this very moment out in force bringing Christmas to my family there. Four Santa's with full arms just appeared on the door to my grandchildren's delight. Although I do not have them with me, nor can I help, in some small way I did. I am there. Where is Christmas? It was in my heart all along. Not a moment too soon, have I found my Christmas.

The kids have a tree and a few gifts beneath it. They have food and the best part is.. they have their Mom's heart there too.

God, the heart of life really IS still good.

I am praying for many many blessings on that lil City.

I am praying that the changes in Christmas will be okay, however different they become.

The good news is... I'm praying.


Jamie & Shawn

No Getting Sick For Christmas!!!

$32.00 can't afford to spend dollars is gone on a serious panic attack at the local pharmacy!
I could get a really good Christmas toy with that! Two weeks ago my grand girl has a bad cold. One week ago, dear daughter has it, and turned into full blown Bronchitis. ( my winter Nemesis) Now.. I was a bit SKEERRED but I thought that since I was taking so many vitamins I would be passed over. UNTIL this morning when I awakened with a sore throat. No problem, I snore. Deal with it. Fast forward to 12:30 pm. My throat is now on FIRE and I am practically drinking Listerine! I have a headache... I downed 2 Excedrin, 2 Motrin... I am now so very afraid! ( and I'm freaking freezing).
Raining cats and dogs, wind blowing the leaves sideways 2 feet off the ground, I grab my coat and my dog and get in the car headed for the pharmacy. Oh I cannot get sick... I cannot get sick. I am already weak. WEAK I tell you.... Throw that damn Jackie O crap right out the window! For every 1 hour of strength, I have 23 of every bad emotion I can thwart off! I only say this because if illness is added into the mix, YOU ALL KNOW what a little whiner I am! NO CAN DO DA PAIN! See? I'm already whining! dang it!!! All I need now is a Michael Bolton tune to come on the radio and I'll be down for the count!


I have a huge list to attack.. and its going nowhere fast. :::case I'm on here u say?::: No! Cause I'm drinking my tea and self talking me into not being so.... oh well... Maybe being pissed off P!nk is better than whining with Michael Bolton... Lets go... ::::::do not get sick, do not get sick, do not get sick:::::::and get out of fantasy land!

Broccoli Slaw- It Does A body Good

I love this stuff... I just gotta tell ya. I use for SO MANY THINGS! Its good for ya, its satisfies the CRUNCH need, its cheap, its filling... I could go on and on! What do you peoples do with it? Or do ya?

Broccoli Slaw: 1 bag of slaw,6 slices of cooked and chopped bacon bits (crunchy), raisins, mandarin slices, slivered almonds. Mix all with a cup of plain yogurt, a spoon of mayo, and a couple packets of splenda. ( optional 1/2 cup onions diced)



Cole slaw: Mix up some mayonnaise, a splash of vinegar, and celery seed ( or salt) and 2 packets of splenda and VOILA! You have a coleslaw that's better!!



Salad greens: My grands have NO CLUE they are eating their broccoli when its mixed into salad greens! Woohoo Sneaky Nonni:)



Sandwich: Substitute the lettuce sometimes for a crunchy treat! Or build a veggie sammich with this, cucumber slices, a slice of cheese and avocado slices...



And my favorite way................... wait for it..................



Saute a small skillet full with a lil slice of butter (not too long, just half tender) Then add it to your open omelet, and sprinkle a bit of cheese. Close omelet, melt cheese and top it with a slice of Avocado:)

Dang it, now I'm hungry.... This was a favorite at our B & B too. I think I'll go make one now! Sorry??? LOL Good morning!


Sometimes I throw in mushrooms in the saute too. I want to know where this tasty bag has been all my life???

Let me know what you do with it ok? I'll try it too!

Rise & Shine

"All human wisdom is summed up in two words; wait and hope."

Mornin` I'm watching the rain again. I thought about waiting and hoping.. still am. I have risen, and Im not shining .... YET..... BUT I WILL! ( its on the list) Grunt.

Displaced or Valid Anger? BOTH!!

Since my appointment schedule is kinda kinked I am putting Thursdays visits onto Tell All Tuesdays.... isn't that special?? :::omg do u remember her? LOL:::::
Mr Wizard asked if I'd like a road map, or to use my own agenda. I nearly fell out of my comfy black swivel rocker to my knees and begged for a road map. He laughed and said lets do some of each. My list for the day was anger management. His, displaced anger. Hmmmmm Now theres a lesson in itself.After 45 minutes of examination of the subject Mr Wizard hit a nerve and caused a meltdown. Not to let myself go to far of course, I had a hankie nearby. The tears of a clown are not allowed to show.
Sometimes I feel like that little girl in Charlie and the Chocolate factory that everyone despises. The one who wants it all and wants it now. Just as quickly.... my Sybilness is such a little victim. Maybe I'm just mad at me. On that note I shall go and ponder today's lesson and begin my homework. ( actually Id like to smack the new dog that moved in next door because of its incessant whining and crying.) Oh wait! I need to smack its owner!!! Ergo, displaced anger.
"Anger is an emotional response triggered by an interpretation that a threat is or may be present. The physical effect it has is to activate the fight or flight response and prepare the body for action." In my unique case, Freeze is the operative word. Why is not yet known. ( at least to me)
When someone experiences a situation in which there are certain expectations of self and others that remain unmet, anger often occurs. Often anger is displaced to an object that is less threatening than the original source of the anger.
No question about it, Anger can sour relationships, no matter the source, whether or not its displaced, or valid. ( remembering that words wounds worst theory)
A recent rat study shows that when faced with 3 unpleasant choices, the animal would become so frustrated it would chew itself, heart attack, or just go insane with wild anger. We are not anmals eh? We as humans ponder the least of the painful routes, decide to take it, suffer the path while hoping for better opportunities.
Ok... it doesnt SOUND like crap, but it sure as hell feels like it. Mr. Wizard is indeed a thinker, or a giver of thoughts.
I am reading a delicious book which also has my head spinning round. Pick it up... Very good ponder food.

Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are

My homework is another list, onto the original list.. quite the site too. It begins with put up a Christmas tree!

Lots To Do Today

"Your life becomes the thing you have decided it shall be."

Raymond Charles Barker

We all know what "decision" means right?
Good morning:) I am home, unpacking, and list making like a mad woman! Yep... list pads a flyin! I has a great time with Ronda and now its time to get freaking serious about my own DECISIONS. We traded bunches of new habits she and I. I am hooked on QVC and Ronda is sipping my green tea while.... WAIT FOR IT...... List making!!!!!!! No kidding... shes so cute and on fire with scratching the items off! (she is such a lil over achiever u know). I will be in search for a purse sized clipboard for her...lol I took mine out this morning, and overwhelmed myself in 10 minutes flat!
I brought home some delicious fabrics from her Mom's shop and I am developing a beautiful appliqued quilt pattern with it! Yep.. Ronda had me pinkie swear to gitterdone and show it. I will enlist the stitchers to push me here in person at Stitch n Bitch!
I thought Portland was interesting..... interestingly WET AND GREY! Oh yeh... When I landed in Sacramento I saw the sun and nearly fell to the ground in worship! It is quite beautiful and reminded me of Cambria in some parts BUT.... It also made me so homesick for my central coast... sigh... if home is where the heart is eh? CLIC
I have to run.. much to do and my morning devotional is making me a little guilty so its on and cracking! First stop... Mr Wizard! ( boy will he get an ear full!)
LYG!!
G

While Mom's Away.....& A Happy Birthday to Heather!

I want to wish Heather the HAPPIEST of Birthdays!! I love ya Woman! Lets do overs next week K?

Ya see... Karen had no idea the level of "spoiledness" my Ginger is when she agreed to pup sit for me...lol Aviana got a new racoon toy from Becca and of course Ginger stole it... slobbered on it, and then pouted when it was taken away from her. Sissy Karen HAD TO GO TO WALMART and buy Giner one of her own to bring her out of her depression! All is now well with both Lovie's .LOL Can u just see the brawl for the stuffed toy? I can! Good conflict management Karebear:)

And of course no car trip can be taken without Ginger on the center console looking at the driver so adoringly how could one resist???? I miss her, but then again, thats what I do. See ya soon kids!

Happy Saturday

Ronda is adorable:)

Rain is coming down... we be sewing.. so who cares! We are working on my applique skills, and as a bonus, I get a color segment! lol

Portland Bound!

Off to see my soul sista... hang out, talk life skills... quilt... find trouble. ( wheres the striker key?) I am in the airport..:::not in the bar::: waiting.. cause thats what it looks like everyone else does here. I didnt get frisked:( Yeh, I was kinda bummed.. I was READY FOR EM! I Did however set off the alarm having forgotten the cell phone in my bra. Thanks H.... grunt. To my horroe... the 20 dollar fee I paid for my bag was 50.5 pounds and you DO know what that means right? Ahuh... I CANNOT bring a single thing back with me! ( or it increases to 50 bucks! ) Seriously ridiculous.. I smell an entire blogabout there I tell ya. Its raining still and I hear tell it will be the same in Ore. I hope to sign on and send you peoples pics so stay tuned:)
LYG!
PS: side note: no plane since YOU know WHEN.. I'm already hyperventilating but self talk at rapid speed going on! I dont like feeling my heart pound through 3 layers of clothing. CLIC

The Absense Of Painful Conflict

Today Mr. Wizard and I came to one conclusion on the list of many. I am really not "tangled". I am simply "Untangling. What encouraging words eh? But if you are me.... it leads to about 500 other questions! When DID I become tangled? How did I decide I needed untangling?

I am certainly no scholar, not educated in psychology, not even to the degree of many. I am however ( I think) as real as it gets. In keeping it real I had to revise last weeks quote for myself. ( because I can) The absence of painful conflict. Revised to include what I think is the key I was looking for.

Conflict.

We all have conflict, managed or otherwise. But what leaves a slow and steady stream of emotional bleeding?

Painful conflict.

Now... what is painful to each of us may differ depending on the toughness of skin eh?
Words Wound Worst ( not to be confused with www.) kinda freaky huh?

It is my subjective opinion that some folk do not have the emotional intelligence to STFU (hold your tongue) while in an agitated state.(or sometimes otherwise) Now we are all guilty of this on occasion, but... OCCASION is the keyword. It could be youth. The older the wiser. Then again, some may never leave the youth area. Some grow up, however have little control over an emotion that allows there alligator jaws to overload their hummingbird ass. ( scuse me)

This is where painful conflict takes place. Collateral damage.
Can one truly forgive and forget? Or one or the other? Can people change?
I know those who have changed drastically. I also know those who have not, never will. Whats the criteria? What is needed?
Tony Robbins insists that a good relationship, ANY relationship, must contain common core beliefs to go the distance.
Mr. Pastor, says we must be equalling yoked.
Psychology says one must have the absence of painful conflict.
Ghandi, Maya Angelou and the like, simply says.............. In all ways, be kind to one another.
G says, take a heaping helping of each, and learn to be still until your emotional intelligence kicks in. Therefore avoiding holes in your heart.
Next time we will discuss Flight, Fight, Or Freeze!

G' Morning:)

"Never apologize for showing feeling. When you do so, you apologize for truth."

– Benjamin Disraeli

 

So I guess I can quit saying I'm sorry when i have a not so happy ass blogabout? OKAY! Instant Forgiveness:)

G' morning. Now you would think that this is tell all Tuesday but you would be mistaken. Due to after school care of my lil ones I had to move my Mr. Wizard appt. grunt. Stay tuned.

I am but 2 days out to pack ~n~ go again and anxiety has set in. In a good way:) I think all of this planning, and doing is keeping my mind ass busy enough to thwart off bad vibes. Its a good thing. It would seem that deadlines, lists, forwardness works best for me. Keep calm and carry on..... I am doing my level best to be a tree in the wind waiting for spring. Hurry cherry blossoms! I am in hopes that it will bring good things all over. For now... I need to get busy:) Have a great day:)

Just Sayin'.....

Long Fun Week end & M and M's.

I want to do it again:) Oh wait! I think I will! I have 3 days to work my lil tail off and then I go to my BFF Ronda's! ( I still cant believe it) I think we will party quilt like rock stars! I hope I have some time to pack properly THIS time. sheesh... I was such a basket case last trip. No matter, I had a fun time in Atascadero (adter the 101 meltdown, gosh I'm getting so good at those eh?) with Linda as we played with fabric, thread, and wine, dogs. I feel in love with her aierdale, Gracie! ( ok, and the hot tub) I have a CAR full of thread waiting to be unloaded when the darn rain quits. Thanks so much Linda, lets quilt!
 Then over to Morro to spend some quality time with Walt:) I made some soups and we took in a movie and talked a bunch. I managed to get home to Arroyo Grande and didnt want to leave. I'm wondering now if its not a good idea to be in AG, as anger emerges in me while at the same time...so very homesick. Remember the post about "If home is where the heart is, I must have 2 of each?" Well... FLIP IT!  CLIC
So they tell me its Christmastime..... I see it all over... 19 days to go, not feeling it peoples!! If I could find my passport I would be on a plane to Montreal! I am on a big search, believe me. I'm trying Blima!!!!!!!!
I gotta get busy, have a great Monday!

M & M's

Good friends, fun times

Hope for better times
Safe travel in storms
My red coffee cup
Ginger being well cared for in my absense
Rudy being loved in my absense too!

Random Middle Of The Night Thoughts

• Why am I wide eyed...STILL?


• maybe a cookie will help me sleep


• I like cookies


• I always buy the wrong sized light bulb for my curio. halfheimers. grunt.


• I look around, and as much as I have downsized, I have too much stuff!


• I like my stuff.


• I wonder if I will ever have an IQ with a second machine head?


• I cant wait to love up on my BFF Ronda next week!


• I wonder if I will get to Blima:::insert screaming inside::


• I am excited for a road trip tomorrow to see my new bff Linda!


• I have a wierd mad, crazy obsession with my cordless drill gun. its fun?


• I like company for coffee and sharing a meal rather than a weekender B & B.


• I am missing my very first studio where Thimblina was born and so was Stitch & Bitch Night, and a bunch of other things born too. Rudy... a marriage... trees.. bricks.... ::sigh:::


• I miss the range in my voice to belt out a song or 2.


• I am missing a hellova lot of things.....


• I think I will go to the city and dance on Coit tower like no ones watching me. Ok Fine.. I really will be on the wharf eatting crab legs all the way down the block.


• I love KKSF live stream smooth Jazz... turn it on!


• I spend way too much time pondering lottery winnings.


• The Smurf house in SLO is for rent, and I want to BUY IT. If I won the 8 Million tonight... Imma walk right up there and do JUST THAT. Yep... I'm gonna say Whats smurfin on?? As I have done daily for the past few years as I pass it on the 101.


• Watching THE NANNY every middle of the night is seriously boring.


• I need some warm clothes. and wool socks. More boots. THINK Boots. grunt.


• I have over (easily over) a dozen Pismo sandals and I'm not there.


• I have a HUGE Christmas list in the middle of my mind that I wish I could TELL someone about! LOL I remember the kids used to make me lists... Why cant we make lists and give them to the kids?


• I am in need of retail therapy as I am having withdrawls that would choke a pig.


• I should get up and remove the closet door and put it in the shed. It bugs me. These days, its really not a good idea to bug me.


• I hate ants. They really creep me out.


• I wonder if I will ever be slender again, or if this is it... ::;more internal screeching going on:::


• I need a movie buddy. I think I wish to see Burlesque again too!


• I now own the soundtrack and TRY to belt out that range. ( E for effort G..)


• Oh Geez did I mention ants creep me out? Where are they coming from? Rain? ACK!!!


• I seriously love my lil TANK car.. it even sounds as Gutsy as she looks:)


• I wonder if wine hampers the weight loss?


• Sheesh, look how slim the NANNY is... I wish


• Did you know printer ink is a robbery???? Ridiculous! I will visit my frugal blog tomorrow and see if she has any tips on the subject.

Am I sleepy yet? Sheesh.. I think I will go load a quilt. Sleep is over rated anyway. Where's the ant spray?