Year ONE.

1 year.

52 weeks.

365 days.

8766 hours.

525949 minutes.

How is a year supposed to go after you’ve lost your mom? I don’t know how it was “supposed” to go but it’s had it’s ups and downs. Good parts and low parts and very low, and lower than low. So much has changed, so much is the same. We are all the same people, and I can only speak for myself when I say that I am the same, with a huge chip on both of my shoulders. I have realized how much I depended on her, and how I would have if she was here.

I try to think what she would do in different situations, and what she would want me to do. They say it gets easier. I would say I cry less, but as of this day at this time in this minute, it isn’t. 365 days does not remove any of the pain, on happy days it may be dulled, but it is still there, and it still hurts, more than I can describe.

In these past 52 weeks I have discovered who my family is and who my friends are. Thank you to all of the people who have asked how we are doing, whether it was face-to-face, phone call, e-mail, text…. I have discovered that in your worst time(s) there are some people who are there for you, and some who are not. I get very sad when I think about all those who were supposed to be there, and were supposed to call- Mom would have called you. People have stood out and people have failed.

I have tried to “press on” as best I can but even still I can say some days I do not want to get out of bed, and some days I do not want to go to work, and some days I don’t want to run. I do it because she would want me too. I do it for my dad. I do it for my sister. They need me to do it, because if it weren’t for them there would be no reason to do it for myself.

I miss her. I miss her laugh. I miss her hugs. I miss her always being right. I miss her cooking. I miss her garden. I miss her love.

A day at the races (but I forgot my hat)

For Labor Day 2011 we decided to go ALLLL out! Well, not really, but before school starts and overtime, it would be nice to do something together on a rainy holiday. My husband has been wanting to go to Finger Lakes Gaming and Race Track for a while, so along with my dad and sister, we made the 30 minute drive. It was a lot of fun. We placed bets, not knowing anything about how to bet but placed them anyways. Didn’t walk away with any extra bucks, but seeing my sister placing bets was pretty funny.

Something really sad happened during one of the races. A 3 year old had a heart attack with 1/4 of the race left. It was heart breaking. It made me sad, I tried to get a closer look….

I got wondering all about their care, and why they get lasix…anyway, that is for another day. But if you would like info, click here.

~Cindy

Marcy, the Mountain.

We love the Adirondacks. I would live there if I could. We went up at the beginning of August, for vacation and to explore a mountain we have never hiked before. We both enjoy backpacking. It was not just the two of us who made the climb, but my dad, and my cousins Emily and Rob. Marcy is about 5200 feet. We got a late start, due to a flat tire, so we slept around 3000 feet and Michael, Emily and I made it to the summit the next morning. Rob and Dad apparently let age get the best of them! We made it to the top, for it to be in a cloud. We didn’t get to experience the view, but it was amazing.

The group.

My dad.

the trail.

Rob. Sunset.

Me. Shoes off.

the trail. In the morning.

beautiful emily

Michael almost there

Cloudness

em found the camera

then the sun came out.

the way down. awesome.

Well, we did it. It was great. Go try it!

MonthSiX.

That was mom. She was happy. I wish she was here. Happy. These days creep by slowly with out her. She isn’t there to listen to me when I tell her about work, or to come over and help me with my house, or vice versa. May 16. Marks 6 months without her.

I was struggling to write. I had no idea where to start. How do you put words around these emotions? Then she showed me. We went out to dinner with my dad and sister Friday evening, it was fun, and nice for us to get together. Bridge went home so we took dad to a local cupcake joint that was delish and took him home. Dad and Michael were talking about man-ish things, so I walked away and opened the front (coat) closet at my parents house.

And there they were. Her slippers. Sitting on the floor of the closet as if she had just taken them off and had every intention to put them back on later. It broke my heart. I looked at her sweaters, a white one, a blue one. A tan jacket and a lighter tan jacket. I walked up the stairs because I did not want dad to see me start to cry. I looked at my old bedroom- it has come along way since when I painted it an ‘ungodly’ version of blue. Walked into my sister’s old bedroom and saw some of my stuffed animals in there. I decided to clean the toilet. It didn’t change anything, except that dad has one less toilet to clean for a few days. Sigh.

I walked back down the stairs and noticed a few cards in the living room. One was from my aunt, to my dad- it was very nice, I am so glad that she sent that to him, its nice to know he is not forgotten in these times. The other was from one of mom and dad’s friends, she lost her husband- I think about 2 and a 1/2 years ago, and the words she wrote were honest and pure made me feel even worse. She wrote to dad how she could not call dad because she would ‘fall apart,’ she wrote that her time to cry is the car- when no one is around. She signed it, “from my heart to yours.” I guess we are never alone in our struggles, but sometimes it does not make it any easier.

I am working on a garden. I think I am probably doing it all wrong. I wish I had her to help, or her telling me what to do. I don’t know if I am doing anything even remotely close to how it is ‘supposed’ to be done. Learn by trial and error I guess. It is raining, that is a good thing when gardening, so I guess something is going right. Michael and I went to their house this weekend so I could get some plants for my own garden. It was not easy. Taking her precious perennials from the home that they have known for years felt so wrong. Then Mrs. D said, “You are putting a piece of her in your garden.”

Here is to my garden with inspiration from Mom. Love you.

a little(of)italia.

We went to Italy in October. Started in the North and traveled to the South. I have yet to tell stories, or show photos. Here are some of my favorites.

Venezia, Italia (Venice)

Grand Canal

On our way to the train station. Bad weather- we were there for 2 days.

Basilica of Santa Croce in Firenze (Florence)

Firenze’s famous gelato

Firenze’s delisious foooood.

Watering Mouths.

Leather Market in Firenze

View of the Firenze Countryside

Pisa, The Leaning Tower.

Strong Husband.

Stronger Wife =)

Roma, Italia

View from the top of the Spanish Steps.

My favorite.

Internal View.

Palantine. Amazing. To bad the Popes stole everything for the Vatican.

Patheon. Under-re-construction when we arrived.

Pantheon. Inside View.

Vatican City. Interesting. Greed. Yet. Incredible.

(View from down the Piazza.)

Courtyard- Vatican grounds.

My illegal photo of the Sistine Chapel

Swiss Guard. Apparently something not usually seen.

“Saint Peter”‘s Basilica

Napoli. (Naples)

Egg Castle.

At the Castle.

The Coast.

Maybe someday we will go back and do more exploring and spend more time in the countryside and visit Pompeii.

Mom would have loved it, More than we did.

King of the Jungle

A review of The Lion King Live, in the theatre.

AMAZING. I seriously could barely keep my skin on, it was so awesome (thank you, husband). My favorites were the actors that portrayed Rafiki, Scar and Pumba (but I always loved Pumba). I could not take any photos but I will never forget how colorful and cool it was. It very closely resembled the cartoon with minor changes to accommodate people being animals/

Awesome.

5months.

April 16. 5 months since mom died. 5 long months. 5 months of thinking about her everyday. 5 months of being miserable. 5 months of worrying about dad, everyday. 5 months worrying about my sister. 5 months thinking about my granma, and mom’s siblings and our cousins. 5 months wondering why? 5 months questioning everything. 5 months of just being. What happens next? Sometimes it feels like it has gone bye so quickly others just takes forever. 5 months.

Those were the days. We miss you.

Cindy

debacle

So I am debating on this wedding stuff. It is an internal battle that I face everyday. It becomes external when my mom asks a lot of questions and forces it outside of my brain. I want to celebrate us. Michael will be home (and hopefully for a long, long time) and that is reason enough. I do struggle because by tieing the knot before “tieing the knot” we did take away from some of the specialness that happens on a wedding day. I do struggle with that. But that fact that I have such an amazing and supportive family I know that most of them will attend and probably be dissapointed if we DON’T do anything. My family always loves a reason to get together. I love them so much, even I can’t comprehend how blessed I really am. So while writing this I am updating our wedding website (http://www.weddingwire.com/cindyandmichael), so I guess we will continue with the “wedding” plans. As far as a shower, I do not know how people would feel about that. If you have any ideas, please INFORM us!! Mom was thinkin a Jakc-n-Jill sort of thing, just eating and increase the “casualness” from a “real” shower. See, it is quiet the debacle.

Other than that. What else am I workin on? Other debacles. Like, how do I organize my life and get rid of things I don’t use or wear anymore when even though I do not use or wear them I can not part with them? How can I lose 30 pounds and still be able to eat ice cream? Will I ever be able to find that recipe for that cake? Am I working to live or living to work?

Well I hope that everyone is having a fabulous evening.

That’s all she wrote (and she’s stickin to it)

C

I dunno if I can do this, but I am willing to try

So, if you know me you know that I am mostly, pretty consistent with working out. I am not however, consistent with losing the weight, or ALWAYS eating SUPER healthy. So I guess, if I try to make this public, kinda like they do on the BiGgEsT loser I may actually have a chance. I have been pretty thin, a few years ago, and I still have all of those lovely size 5′s and 6′s and it is my lifes purpose (well, one of them) to get back into them. I would rather fit into my old, than buy new.

Basically, I know where I struggle, or I know my biggest problems. At work, it is hard for me to always eat, and even though 5-6 meals per day would be ideal, I don’t get that option at work, especially on a 12 hour day. And working a 12 hour day (which sometimes can easily turn into closer to 14 hours) working out is not always an option. I work 2 8 hour days and 2 12 hour days a week. Those days are long, and I am exhausted, so working out after is usually not going to happen. I don’t really struggle with working out (except for those 12 hour days, or days when I am so sore I can’t move). I try to get to my boxing gym and boing 3 to 4 days a week. But that is the only thing consistent, because a lot of things in my life at the moment aren’t (like my schedule).  On days I don’t work, and usually 8 hour days I lift weights, try to get in a little bit of running and box. I really need to find a way to get in more cardio, and yoga… Yeah, right.

In my time, and obviously I have a little cuz I am doing this, I really need to focus A LOT on my diet (and drinking more water- cuz I don’t get to drink at work either).

So maybe if I share my struggles, and stay a little more accountable to those size 5er’s and 6er’s I will do a little better, and also in 4 or 5 months I would love to be taking boxing a little more seriously, and be spending more time in the ring, like with an opponent.

I need to get moving, literaly.

Some websites that are great for weightloss/a-more-healthy-lifestyle include: thedailyplate.com, bodybuilding.com, mapmyrun.com (great for all us runners, who want a pretty accurate map), hardbodyfigure.com, sparkpeople.com (great for those starting out who like a community feel), fitday.com, and so on and so on. All these websites are free so that is good news.

So as often as I can I will try to report to the world, how I am doing.

The goal: to not lose a stupendous amount of weight, but just be comfortable in my own skin, drink closer to a gallon of water everyday (even work days) and look damn good in the little white dress I want to wear to our wedding celebration.

If you are like me and need to get into old clothes feel free to leave me some tips or websites or whatever, maybe you will help someone else too =)

Oh the holidays….

I do love them, do not get me wrong, but man, do we know how to eat! I am not going to write too much today, but I just wanted to point that out. Ugh, I think my gut hurts. And there are more holidays to come. But I will be working the rest through New Years. I hope that everyone had a great Thanksgiving and was blessed like I was to get to spend it with their families. My only regret is that I wish Michael was here to enjoy it with us. Have a great weekend everyone.

Can’t keep up.

So its been a while. I was on nights for a few weeks, and not like that is a good excuse but all I would do is sleep when I wasn’t at work. Other than that not too much new. I am no longer on nights, which I have realized I actually like better than working days and having to put up with a lot of ‘dufus’ doctors. My quest for ‘skinny-ness’ is also going terribly. It is hard to find the time some days. Christmas is only 10 days away now. I haven’t mailed one card and only have mailed Michael’s gift. Naughty, naughty. Coal for me. I will get that stuff done in the next few days. I better. Like today. And like 129078432 other things. Let’s catch up later. I promise. I’ll do my best to write somethin whitty and keep the masses happy. Ha ha. Like anyone actually reads this thing. By the way, its 55 degrees today, here in Rochester, NY so if it stops pouring I will be out there putting some miles in. YAY! I love running outside, treadmills are SOOOOOOoooooo boring!

Boxing….

You may think that you know boxing. You may have viewed it on television and have thought, or even said aloud, “those lugs, they only swing and hit….it is so gross….” Let me tell you, boxing is what has me sore, and oddly enough, wanting more. I have been learning to box since July, learning to learn, and doing it because it would be a little something new to add to my workouts. And something else to keep me busy while Michael is not here. It is tough. It takes knowing your body like somethin else. There is so much involved, believe me, it isn’t just those arms throwing a few punches. You have to block, move, punch, watch out, don’t lean! all at the same time. Your feet should never cross. Never look down, and never look away from your opponent. Last night was my first attempt at sparring. It was rough, and a lot of fun. And I can’t wait to do it again! I am boxing tonight, but probably with minimal contact, always gotta keep the basics in mind. Its fun. Try it. Your body will thank you…maybe 3 days later =). That is me to the right. Hand wraps on. Ready to go!

That’s all she wrote,

C

PS And Ladies it is “lady” friendly. I own pink gloves. Yay. They are adorable.

Movie Review. Issue 1.

From the title of this I am sure you will know the content of this lil blog post.

This is a “Cindy“-style review of The Tale of Despereaux. I took my little cousins, Zach and Jake to see it this afternoon. What else can be better on a pretty cold day? Not much. The movie is kid friendly. Zach, who is 7 had a few questions along they way, but they both really enjoyed it.

Characters: The main character- he is absolutley ADORABLE! His extra large ears, and cute lil body make you wanna squeeze him! Roscuro the conflicted character, is super cute too, and according to the movie is not the typical rat. He does not eat garbage, and he talked to “his” people. The other mice are super cute too, but unlike our main man, they are very timid, while Despereaux, who is tiny, for a mouse, is very brave, and a “gentleman.”

Thumbs up? Thumbs down? 1 Thumb up! Go see it!

That’s all she wrote

C

Cake Craving?

So this really works. I tried it. Check this out!

Quick-Kake (recipe)

I like to add a tablespoon or 2 of chocolate chips, because then you don’t even miss frosting.

Try it and let me know if it works.

That’s all she wrote

C

Wii Addict.

I have a Wii (well, we have a Wii). Wii=crazy-hard-drug-like-addiction. I love catching my parents bowling, or serving up a game of tennis. But what do I love? SUPER MARIO GALAXY! I highly recommend it! It is cute and sometimes very challenging. I am kind of “coming out of retirement” from video gaming. I have an original X-Box, but all I ever played on that was SSX Tricky (also very good, may I add- and great for multiple players), The Sims, and Tetris. I have to play it everyday. You have small objectives along the way, but your ultimate goal is to save Princess Peach from the Toad/Dinasour Man-Thing. LOVE IT! If I was a monkey I would give it 4 Thumbs Up!!

Mario Galaxy

Tales from the Bed Pan #1

I like my job. I don’t love it because sometimes providers are really annoying. I do love it because most of the time I love my patients. So let me share some funny stories (from the bed pan).

Demented Patient to Me, “How is it?

Me to Patient, “It’s Delicious!”

Patient to Me, “Oh, save me some.”

This was a random conversation between me and a lovely patient who has no idea who, what, where, or how about anything.

Patient in Room calling, “NURSE! NURSE!”

Cindy to Patient, “Yes, what can I do for you?”

Patient, “I didn’t call you.”

Crazy.

After helping a patient, suffering from some mental status issues:

“Oh, thank you Cindy, you are the best.”

“That is no problem, I don’t mind.”

“Will you marry me?”

“How much money do you have?”

“Ohhhh Cindy, Give me a hug.”

Needless to say, I ran the other way when told to give him a hug, and I am still married to Michael. (It’s supposed to be funny people!)

Read wit me.

I love reading. Most people who know me fairly well know this.

I recently finished Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (this is book 4 in the series). My wonderful husband purchased the last 3 of the series for me. It is gooooood! All 734 pages. I know I am behind the times in reading these, but hey, I’m catching up. I am still addicted to Mario Galaxy but I try to spend and equal amount of time reading and video gaming.

Anyway. You get sucked in. Always wanting to see what gonna happen next. I find the English entertaining.  Ron, Harry’s 1 of 2 best friends is a little on the cheesy side. Not too bright, but he does add the comedy. Hermoine, Harry’s other best friend is a woman to be reckoned with. Obviously I have favorites. I wonder how Rowling came up with these things, how much research it took…she has a brilliant mind.

I have started the 5th out of the series, I also have 2 of the Twilight series to finish, and another book I got for Christmas, of which, the title escapes me (its from Jon).

SO IF YOU HAVEN’T READ THE HARRY POTTERS!!!

Update? Kinda? Slacker, Yes.

Ha! This is how I feel about “wedding” planning. And, it is not really a wedding, more like a: Reception-(didn’thave1)Celebration(Michael=home)Party(whodoens’tliketoparty)

Did you get that? So this is where I’m at homies.

Dj. Check.

“Officiant.” 1/2 a check.

Photographer. Check.

Party Place. Check.

Decor. Absolutely not.

Clothes. (Dresses, stuff like that) Somewhat.

Well, that is where I am for now. Lazy, I know.

Where is my bailout?

I Want My Bailout Money – Lyrics

Lyrics written and performed by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger

I want my bailout money
Keep the bills coming
Sweet green cash just drippin like honey
I’m a new kind of thug with a Washington buzz ’cause
Dealing debt pays better than dealing drugs

What do you think will happen when they double the money supply?
The falling dollar makes it harder for you to survive
They take those billions and trillions and give it to their own kind
Hope you don’t mind bein robbed blind

How do you think we got runaway credit?
Ain’t nothin goin down unless the crooks in Washington let it
Now they regret it but they still don’t get it
Cause the economy is crashin so bad it needs a paramedic

I want my bailout money
Sweet green cash just dripping with honey
Gotta keep this economy running
I need another hit of my bailout money

Look at the stash, it’s like a mad dash for the cash
They got the taxpayer takin it in the ass
the CEOs they are havin a blast
While the workin poor trying to make the paycheck last

The bailout money is created with new debt
While they rollin in their limos and private jets
All the workers on the street drippin sweat
While collar hustlers are takin everything they can get

They put the nation on a hyperinflation track
No Presidential administration can take it back
And now the taxpayers pickin up the slack
Like they put a high dollar Big Brother monkey on your back

I want my bailout money
Sweet green cash just dripping with honey
Gotta keep this economy running
I need another hit of my bailout money

The prisons are filled with brothers caught on a fifty-dollar jack
But when Whitey takin trillions, the cops they turn their back
The incompetent bankers, they get their jobs back
Cause those crankers smoking money like it was crack

They take your car, your home, everything that you own
And when you’re jobless and broke, you still gotta pay the loan
If you’re thinkin of stealin some food, please don’t
Just go to Washington and you can steal everything you want

How we gonna solve this, dissolve the big scam
We resolve we won’t let ‘em steal from a fellow man
Gotta raise our hands and ask “What is this?”
Then we put the Federal Reserve out of business!

You take a look at a dollar bill, you see that eye above the pyramid lookin back at you
That eye is laughin at you suckers!

I want my bailout money
Keep the con running
Sweet green cash just dripping with honey
Gotta keep this economy running
I need another hit of my bailout money

Aren’t you tired of payin for that? Tired of breakin your back for that?
Bein oppressed and suppressed while you keep payin your tax for that?
We gotta get out of this financial trap
And it’s never gonna stop until you take your country back

The politicians are useless, don’t you know that they used us
And the bankers refused us while the media schooled us
The authorities knew this was happening to us
Cause they make more money every time that they screw us

You didn’t think they’re printing all that funny money just for you, did ya?

Drownin’ in debt but the Fed isn’t done yet
What are we gonna get?
Gonna print funny money

Budget’s in the red, economy nearly dead
Politician’s said that we
Gonna print funny money

Hangin’ by a thread, the people are bein’ bled
But get it through your head that we
Gonna print funny money

The bankers gotta stay ahead, gotta make more bread
That’s when they said, “Print more money!”

video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnT21hmlT4o

Insert title here.

So, I am currently working on “wedding” stuff. Completely by myself. Its not bad.

I am probably not where I need to be. Mom wants to send out “Save-the-Date” Cards. I’m letting her have fun with those. She is doing ‘em homemade, so even I am curious about how they are going to turn out.

I’m working on the guest list. Its really not too bad. I have a lot of wonderful friends, and I am hoping I can squeeze everybody in. Family is already in. No debating in that area.

My sister is going to do the shower, but we will decide on somethings together. So we will start that this weekend. It will probably be a “unisex” sort of event, because we are already married, we will have a more casual shower experience. On the shower topic, I was wondering if anybody had some tips on things we could use. We have pretty much NADA. There are a few things we would like, but if anyone has any ideas about things that you really needed that you didn’t get lemme know =).

Among other things….I received Mario Kart as an anniversary present today. I played a little. It is fabulous. Love it, I would love to get another steering wheel thingy so that it can be enjoyable. YAY for Wii!!

I am working nights right now, and I love it. Hospitals are much more agreeable at night. Even though that is when patients like to code and you have to get security involved I am just able to do my job and care for my patients. I love that.

I am also working on training for a 15K. I will have to try to get the weekend off at the end of March, and hopefully my training won’t be in vain. I ran for about an hour yesterday, and I am also continuing to box. I really find it a necessity to get in SUPER shape. I’m all over it, and I am so sore.

That is all she wrote.

C

Simply the best. (Tales from the Ben Pan #2)

I have been working days lately. I strongly dislike it. Pomp and circumstance at its best. Yuck. Puke. The death of me.

Anyway. I can’t tell you much about him, but I had the most AMAZING patient the past few days. He made me realize how much I love caring for people. Made me realize how blessed I am. Made me realize how lucky A LOT of us are. Made me realize all the crap that goes on in that instituion are unimportant when it comes to why we are really there. To care for people. He is inspiring. I wish him the best, and for his sake I hope he is gone when I return to work tomorrow.

That’s all she wrote.

C

My Life. OUR LIFE.

I hope that right now, wherever in the world my husband is that he is enjoying the superbowl and allowed his beer. I won’t be able to talk to him for some time now, and it really really sucks. And no email either. Thank you George, thank you Patreas. Thanks Congress. No thank you.

I just want to put this out there. Michael is my husband. The most important person in the world to me. End of that story. Yes, we both love our families, but when it comes to us, he is the most important thing. When it comes to us, I do not need to justify anything to anybody. I miss him and I love him. He is amazing.

That’s all she wrote.

C

These are HITS….for any party…

I made these to bring to a friend’s house a few weeks ago. They were loved.

Oreo Balls:

Ingredients:

• 1 package regular size Oreo cookies, crushed
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

Directions

1. Using a blender or hand held mixer, mix Oreos and cream cheese together.

2. Roll into walnut size balls.

3. Chill for an hour.

Now, according to the recipe you can dip them in white chocolate, but I am not a big fan of white chocolate, so I use semi-sweet and maybe drizzle on white. It also recommends white almond bark, but I have never purchased such an item, but I don’t completely follow recipes anyway.

Also, these are NOT EVEN CLOSE to being low-cal, so use reduced fat Oreos, and reduced fat cream cheese, and guess what?! They taste the same!

……………………and for the next party hit:

Chicken Wing Dip:

• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup pepper sauce, such as Franks® Red Hot®
• 1 cup Ranch-style salad dressing
• 2 cups diced cooked chicken
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese and hot pepper sauce until well blended. Mix in the Ranch dressing, chicken and Cheddar cheese. Spread into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven. If oil collects on the top, dab it off using a paper towel. Serve with tortilla chips.

The dip is super yummy. I usually cut the recipe in 1/2 and use a dish half the size and microwave it. Way easier than waiting for the oven. Also, blue cheese works well too. Whatever you want.

YUMMMMMM!

Try ‘em! Or make them your own. I always do!

That’s all she wrote

C

She’s got the look….

I did a little template changing on here. For ALL our readers. HAHA. The picture is on that I took while at the market in Seattle, Washington.

Nothing much going on these days. Just boxing, working, sleeping, etc….Hopefully I will be making a trip to Ithaca soon, to see some of my great friends, and continue running….

That is about it, for now. I’ll try to write more later. It will probably be all anti-government…

That’s all she wrote

C

Cash at the Register(ing).

So on Thursday my super wonderful sister and I went to go kill the registries.

It started out as a ton of fun. A few hours and 300 items later, things were getting TEEEE-DEEEE-OUS! At one point my left contact fell out! It was exhausting. I will tell you this, I would not have been able to do it without her. We went to JCPenny, and that was pretty easy, and then went to Bed, Bath, and Beyond. It quickly became overwhelming. Realizing how much we DON’T have, and how much we NEED! HOLY MOLY! And I still need to finish up at Target. I will post everything on the wedding website once it is finalized and ready to go.

I debated even having a shower at all. I asked the advice from a few people and they said that we should. Most people know that we don’t have much between the two of us, except for my shoes, and a small amount of scrubs, and Michael’s Army equipment, when it comes to equipping a home we’ve got nothin’ people! Ha, ha. Now, I want everyone to know that we may have registered, and we are having a wedding, but I am not expecting a shower gift AND a wedding present. One is enough. The party in August is just that. No presents necessary! Just come! We just want everyone who is important to us to be there.

Thank you Bridge, COULDN’T have done it without you <3.

That’s all she wrote

C

Oh the life of a blogggggger.

I don’t really have much to say. Its freezing out and there is no snow to enjoy, so I’m taking a break from cleaning on my day off. I know I don’t write many exciting things, but I wish we had more readers…..maybe soon? I ran ’bout 6 miles today, in preparation for a race that I am hopefully doing (I really need to sign up for it). I am getting wedding stuff done, AND looking for an apartment. It’s hard to get things done when you work the WIERDEST hours on the planet. I don’t mind, but it’s hard to get normal people stuff done. Oh well, I guess.

I haven’t played with my Wii in weeks, and that makes me sad. But I have been reading the twighlight series. Nope, I haven’t finished Harry Potter yet, I am 1/2 way through the last book, but decided to take a break. I guess I read instead of game…as much as I should like that, I am actually depressed by it.

Let’s see….The rest of the day will go as follows (or something like it): Getting ready for work tomorrow (grabbing scrubs and making lunch), NAP TIME!!!!!, laundry (it’s is the dryer now), boxing this evening, maybe running another errand. Watch out people, she’s a killer. Ha. But, speaking of killers I can’t wait for The Watchmen to come out, 3 days I think!

That’s all she wrote.

C

Some news. (Read all about it)

I am very excited. It seems as if one or two things are going good for me. Not everything, of course, that would be closer to heaven, and I am definitely not there.

I will be boxing in my first event on April 3rd. I am so excited. It is in about three weeks. It is a fund raiser for breat cancer! Here is the website: www.knockoutbc.com/knockoutbc.com/Put_on_the_Gloves.html

Finally! After months and months, and getting hit by boys I will actually fight with a girl! HA! Anyway…thought I would let you know! And of course I will have to get someone to come, and get pics of me so I can post ‘em.

That’s all she wrote,

C

Bloggers BLOCK.

I was planning on writing something whimsically whitty this evening. I started two separate ones, but I was unable to finish. But alas, I have failed.

Hummmm. Hummmmm. Hummus.

Recipe.

My awesome friend and co-worker, Nicole asked me how I make my hummus. I decided to make an artichoke heart hummus. I made her a batch and here’s how. (You will notice that I do not use Tahini Paste (ground sesame seeds), it is expensive and I do not think that it is all important- but it is up to you. And if you did decide to use it a recipe like this would require a tablespoon.)

Ingredients:

Chic peas

Artichoke Hearts

Olive Oil (in this case I used extra virgin, because it is what I had, but it really depends on what you like)

Salt-n-PepperLemon juice (I like to use a fresh lemon, but this is what I had, so it’s what the hummus consumer gets)Garlic (I use either minced from a jar, freshly minced, or powdered, depending on what I have, these are for illistration purposes)

1)Okay. Here is how I start. I open my can of chic peas and drain all the liquid into a bowl (SAVE IT!). I pour all of my PeAs into a blender (you can use a food processor, I actually do not own one, and I like the fluffier, creamier consistency with the blender). Press go, or the lower setting mix. This will not ground up all of your PeAs. You will have to scrape them off of the sides and this is when that liquid comes in handy, pour some of that in to help the blender blend those PeAs! 2) After my PeAs are in a pretty ground up consistency, I will add my other ingredients. (Make sure that if any PeAs built up around the sides of the blender to scrape them down. I add about 1 Tablespoon of olive oil. (But again this is to taste, and I do not measure.) Some salt and pepper (again to taste), I probably do 1 shake salt, to two shakes pepper. About 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice (to start and to taste) and a good amount of my artichoke hearts. Today I used the entire can, which were marinated and quarted (sometimes i will also save the juice from that jar and may add it if my hummus is getting to thick for the blender.

3) Blend away friends. Blend away. You may have to scrape the sides of the blender a few times, until you get to the smooth, creamy consistency.

4) It’s eating time. Finished product.

5) For Nicole, I had an empty jar, so I put it in there, and it is waiting in the fridge, and when I see her tomorrow at work I will give it to her! Make sure to take your blender apart for cleaning! The oil can get into all the little spaces not seen by a sponge.

The nice thing about doing this yourself is you know exactly what is going into your food. The homemade version of hummus has much more fiber, and has much less fat that the regular store bought kinds.

Enjoy.

That’s all she blended,

C

$dirty (not $exy) money$.

So. I have something to talk about. Nothing new if you actually know me. I alwayssssss have something to say.

Anyway, so a few days ago I get out of work one morning and I am walking to the parking garage. Over the hallways and through the stairs, to my car I went…. As I am getting very close to my car, what should my tired lifeless eyes see? A $10 BILL!!! So I look to the right, then the left. HA HA. There was no one around for me to HAVE to ask if it was theirs or not. IT WAS MINE! I quick bend at the knee and flick of the finger tips it was MINE! I put it in my pocket and probably more loudly than I should, declared, “YES!” along with a pump of my fist that 2nd graders often do. I felt like it was the only “tax-free” part of my shift. The only thing that the government can’t take away from me because THEY DON’T KNOW I FOUND IT!!! NA-NA-NA-NA-NA-NA! So I took my dirty tip and later that night (when I did not have to return to work) bought myself a drink.

Knock out Breast Cancer!

So last night was THE night. Well, not really. But, it was all for a GREAT cause and it was a GREAT time! I boxed in my first event, and may I remind you, it was for charity, and it was a lot of fun. I boxed against Dana, who I spar allllll-the-time! So in reality it was nothing new, just a million dressed up people watching us. It was a great night and I would love to post pictures, but I do not have any. My dear mother came with me and did not get one shot of me in the ring, but she got everybody else. Bummer. Hopefully someone else will have pics later, and I can get some that I will be able to post.

Read this. Liked this. Sharing this.

First, I will give credit were it is due. Saw it on yahoo.

#1. Polite Fight

“On my wedding-invitation RSVP cards, I left space for guests to write their favorite wedding wisdom. The tidbit that rings truest after almost nine months of marriage is: ‘Attack the issue, not each other.’ How it works: If my husband and I disagree about something, we stay focused on the issue and skip the personal put-downs.” — Melissa Gitter Schilowitz, 31, Metuchen, NJ

#2. Fit to a Tee

“My grandmother insisted that I learn how to play golf. ‘If your husband loves to play, you can go along and spend hours together,’ she said. So I took lessons, and now my husband and I hit the links once a month. We both love the game and are thrilled to share a hobby, even when we spend half an hour looking for my out-of-bounds balls!” — Aimee Borders, 27, Houston, TX

#3. Tabletop Trick

“My aunt told me that if I’m running late when it’s my turn to make dinner, just set the table. That way my husband thinks he’ll be eating any minute, so he doesn’t start complaining, which buys me some time. It’s a silly trick that sounds straight out of the 1950s, but I have to admit that I’ve tried it a few times in the three years I’ve been married — and it works!” — Dawn Clayton, 34, Holdrege, NE

#4. Boob-Tube Brilliance

“Because my husband is such a remote-control freak, my mom suggested that we have ‘my turn’ TV nights. That means three nights a week I get to hold the remote and watch whatever I want, and on the other nights it’s his turn to hold the remote and watch whatever he wants. Now when he starts flipping through the channels, it doesn’t get on my nerves like it used to.” — Angela Clayton, 27, Odenton, MD

#5. Pop the Question

“My sister-in-law passed this helpful hint on to me, and it has served me well for our five years of wedded bliss: ‘Marriage is not mind reading, so ask your spouse what he/she wants and believe what he/she says.’” — Clare Graca, 27, Dallas

#6. Nix the Nit-Picking

“Before I said ‘I do,’ my mom (who’s been married to my dad for 55 years) told me to take out a piece of paper and write down the top three things that bugged me about my husband-to-be. Then she told me to forget the things on that list and forgive him for not being flawless. Once you make a commitment this big, she explained, you can’t let petty things get in the way. In our eight years of marriage, my husband and I have had two kids, tackled cross-country moves and started two businesses — and so far, so great.”– Rebecca Hart Blaudow, 31, Jacksonville, FL

#7. Space Smarts

“Always have separate closets, my best friend told me. It may seem silly, but I listened to her and made sure to find a one-bedroom apartment with two closets (mine being the larger, of course). Now my husband and I each have our own private space, and we respect that: If he wants to keep his shoes in one huge heap or leave his dirty clothes in a pile on the floor, the mess doesn’t bother me a bit!” — Patricia Bontekoe, 26, Lake Hiawatha, NJ

#8. Agree to Disagree

“Before we got married, my minister told my husband and me, ‘You are two imperfect people making an imperfect union, and that’s wonderful.’ This advice made me ditch my belief that in a happy marriage, the couple always agrees. My husband and I have learned to appreciate our differences (yes, even differences of opinion!); in fact, we encourage them because we realize now that those differences are what makes each of us unique and special.” — Beth Swanson, 28, Chicago

#9. Comic Relief

“Before I headed down the aisle, my stepfather told me to always laugh and never take myself too seriously. After four years of marriage, I know that this trick works. My husband and I often play practical jokes on each other and always try to crack each other up, even in the middle of an argument. Hey, if one person laughs, a fight tends to fizzle, doesn’t it?” — Lisa Giassa, 31, Bogota, NJ

Anti-Pop Advice From the Experts

You’ve probably heard a few of these pieces of marital pop wisdom before. If so, these marriage experts say to promptly forget ‘em.

Love means never having to say you’re sorry. “Oh, please! In marriage, love sometimes means having to say you’re sorry even if you don’t know what you did or you didn’t mean to do it.” — Trisha Taylor, psychotherapist, Houston, TX

Always be totally honest. “What are you going to do, tell him that he’s just too short and you can’t stand his mother? Sometimes you need to temper the truth.” — Tara Fields, Ph.D., marriage, family and child therapist, Marin County, CA

Children come first. “This is bad advice if it means your husband always comes second. Of course you should love and care for your kids, but you should never lose sight of your couple-ness. The best thing a child can have is happy, fulfilled parents who are deeply in love.” — Mary Pender Greene, chief of social work services, Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services, New York

Always keep the peace. “No, no, no. If you don’t face a hot issue head-on, you’ll stockpile negative feelings. And before you know it, 20 years go by and you’re still fighting over the same thing because you never resolved it in the first place.” — Rebecca S. Ward, M.S.W., psychotherapist, Little Rock, AR

Never go to bed angry. “Forget it. Often a couple needs time to calm down before they can rationally wrap up an argument. And that may take a few days, so in the meantime, get some sleep!” — Gilda Carle, Ph.D., psychotherapist, New York

Rochester Wiki – The People’s Guide to Rochester

Rochester Wiki – The People’s Guide to Rochester

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taking a bite out of a BIG apple

I returned from a 3.5 day trip to NYC last night. It was pretty fun. My friend, Trisha and I went to explore the city and see the sights and sounds. We did not get to Central Park, however, so that will be high on my list for next time. I have been there quite a few times so far, but never just went exploring the city. There is so much to do. Here is some of my photography.

Times Square Candids:

Jon

Rob

Author

Trisha

Rob and Jon Times Square Compilation

Arboretum, Long Island

Just below are a bunch of pics from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Pretty cool place. But if you really desired to see EVERYTHING you would need a good 3 days, at least. It is hard to get good photos without a good camera (which I think I may be coming in the market for a new one) and the inability for me to use a flash in the museum. You will notice I have a thing for headless art. Also, my cousin Rob is a genius. If anyone goes there you must realize that you don’t actually have to PAY $20 per person. It’s a donation! Needless to say, we paid 33.33 cents each! (Trisha, Rob and I.) What a bargain! But that same day, we also paid $42.00 for parking! OUCH!

While in the city we also explored the South Side Seaport. Its right on the water (the Hudson water I think) across from Brooklyn. There is a boardwalk with stores, food, boats, water taxis, street performers, lots of people, The Bodies exhibit (which I was not aloud to perform my insanely awesome photography) and just some opportunity for some candid photos with some of my besties. See here:

So that is some of my trip. I am hoping that Trisha, my NYC side-kick will get me some of her pictures, so I can share some of those. And let me give credit where it is deserved, I edited my photos and made the collages here.

That’s all she wrote (for now),

C

in other news…..

So besides, just getting back from NYC there are a few other things going on.

I finished the entire Harry Potter series a while ago, and I think that Rowling could have written many more books. I hope that she will. I can not wait to see the final movie when it comes out this summer, and maybe someday own all of them.

I am still working on Mario Galaxy but I do not spend too much time playing. I usually choose sleep, or running a million errands. I also LOVE Mario Kart too. It is a blast to get online and race other people from all over the planet.

After seeing all of those orchids in Long Island I will be getting some plants for my apartment. Speaking of which, I purchased my first piece of “art.” I can not wait to decorate, and buy furniture, but there is so much to choose from, and a lot of money to spend. I should start spending time at outlets and discount stores. I have modern taste and I am looking forward to having a very CoLoRfUl home. Unlike my mom whose theme is “BEIGE.”  (you will have to forgive the photo, I took it with my cell phone.)

Other than that I am trying very hard to get into organic food. I love it, but it is very expensive, like food isn’t enough already. I am concerned with all of the chemicals and preservatives and insecticides that are laden in our foods. So I will continue on my quest. I found these today at Wegmans. They are super fruity and sweet and ALL NATURAL, but at $.75 a piece they are a little pricey. Hopefully I will find coupons someday. I love many Kashi products as well. They are usually a little more reasonably priced and often on sale, and the oatmeal, a few of the cold cereals, granola bars and cookies are delish! I also discovered this chocolate organic granola which is amazing (but a serving is only a 1/2 cup, but loaded with fiber) and it is really really good mixed with chocolate organic yogurt (that is FAT FREE!!) and throw in a cup of sliced organic strawberries or raspberries and we are in CHOCOLATE HEAVEN!!!! Yum!!

That’s all she’s writin for now =)

C

Smoothie. My way.

So, when I have time to pull out the blender I love to make a delicious and healthy smoothie. I love them after a good workout, and this one is pretty filling.

I start with the yogurts. I use 2, if I have them. The Greek yogurt has a TON of protein and even though it isn’t organic I like the Fiber One because obviously, you get the fiber. I usually have the plain Greek yogurt but I only had the one with honey. It adds about 40 calories or something.

After I throw those into the blender I choose my fruit. It is usually frozen strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries,  mango, a combination, or if I find something else interesting at the store I will add that. I like to use them frozen, because it keeps the consistency smooth and you don’t get that watery stuff. Today, I used about a cup of frozen strawberries.

I also throw in a tablespoon or so of ground flax seeds. They add even more fiber, vitamin E, as well as very important Omega-3 fatty acids. I keep the ground seeds in the freezer, to keep them fresh. You may think it makes the smoothie gritty, and honestly, it really doesn’t.

So after I put all that into the blender I turn it on to get things movin. It is pretty thick, so instead of adding milk to thin it out I use unsweeted almond milk. It is 40 calories per cup, and you only really need a 1/2 cup (at the most) to get things moving without watering it down to much.

And we are on our way to a super breakfast, or after workout meal! If I had a super hard workout, or pumped iron I add a scoop of whey protein powder. Usually vanilla, and it does not change your smoothie, and it is still amazingly delicious.

Finished product:

All in all, I fill this glass, and usually have enough left over to fill to 1/2 way. I guesstimate that there is about 300 calories, withoug the protien powder, and minimal almond milk.

Happy Smooth-ing.

That’s all she blended,

C

PS Tomorrow I am going to start running again. After I complete a 12 hour overnight shift, ugh. I am trying really hard to get in super shape. These overnights usually make me gain, I can not seem to stay in one place, the poor scale must think I am bi-polar by how much my weight fluctuates and usually keeps going up.

breakfast of champions.

Oatmeal. For some its super (like me), and for others it’s just disgusting.  Sometimes I go for the Kashi vanilla, or honey cinnamon. But if I have time to dress it up myself, I do. I make enough oats (the REAL ones, steel cut, ones that require actual cooking are much better for your health than instant), or use some high fiber hot cereal produced by Bob’s Red Mill (these guys actually have a lot of GREAT organic products). I like it a little sweet. If you use a lot of sugar, you are defeating the purpose, obviously, and always add cinnamon. Cinnamon has some great properties (like the ability to keep blood sugar stable) and if it is good quality it is ful of antioxidants. Because I love almonds I chop up about 2 tablespoons and throw ‘em in, and rinse of some raspberries and yum, yum, yum.

Eat up! Conquer the day!

That’s all she cooked,

C

In the case, of a suit. A tribute.

I would like to pay tribute to my suitcase. Yes, my suitcase. I love him. It is a him because it has the name “Kenneth Cole” in rubber on the front. He is silver, no longer shiny or new, because the airports, and planes made him dirty. My suitcase. My supersized, silver (designer) suitcase that I found for $35. (Originally a few hundred I suspect- one of the reasons I L-O-V-E Marshalls.) You hold things that are so important to me. I would like to thank him for being there for me in Belize, the West Coast, NYC, and all the other travels I have needed him for. This is for you, you silver peice of wonderful manmade craftmanship. There will never be other peice of luggage like you. Thank you.

Brief Up-to-the-date.

So, there is not really too much else going on. I have to work ALL weekend. Friday THRU Monday, and after that I am going to tackle my “list.” I am fond of lists. It helps me get through a shift at work, my day, my life.

Wedding stuff needs to start moving to the TOP of my list. After next Monday, I will have a few days off and I am going to try to get my invitations ordered, and start working on stuff for the shower with my sister, hopefully. I also have to pull some other stuff together and work on looking fab in my cute lil dress.

I am running again. Nuff said. That is under “Workout-Shmirkout.”

Can’t wait to Michael to get home. Shouldn’t be too long NOW!!!!

Exactly 1/3 through Mario Galaxy.

Reading The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova (REALLY GOOD!)

Also working on a list of things I will need for OUR new home. I want to have some stuff so I don’t have to go spend a fortune the 1st week, even though we probably will.

Lastly, I love bluetooth. All of my hummus pics and the one here I took with my phone and wirelessly send to my Mac. Its easier than using my camera, and a new one of those is also on my LIST.

Listing out.

That’s all she wrote.

C

not-just-your-run-of-the-mill-carb-loaded-waffle.

These have been around for some time. And they are worthy of praise! Kashi makes some really great products. They make these wonderfully delicious blueberry waffles that actually have sone nutritional benefit.

The facts:

For 2 waffles it’s 170 calories each (so 85 cals each), 3 grams of Fat, 33 Carbs total (6 grams of fiber) and 8 grams of protien. So, overall not to bad of a waffle!

I try to stay away from the syrups because of the high sugar content, so I will slice some strawberries and eat them together!

Yum, yum

That’s all she toasted,

C

apparently. lazy.

I have been “blazy” (blog-lazy) lately and I will soon be getting back to my “blog-a-licious-ness” soon, I hope. For ALL my readers

Blazy-ness continues.

Hey everybody. I am so sorry. Things have been very hectic since Michael returned home a few weeks ago. We move tomorrow. So, once we are settled, I will put up some delicious food pics, and moving pics. PROMISSEEEE!!!

patientlywaiting.

I know it has been a while. More excuses, I know. We just moved in to our new place. After I get outta work this weekend, I will start back up. Ugh. We are exhausted!

That’s all she wrote.

C

Tilllll-the-lapia.

So. Now. We. Cook.

It’s kinda nice. Michael cooks. Cindy cooks. Tonight I cooked. I would have to say that my “menu” is quite a bit less adventurous than Michael’s, as well as less garlic-y and onion-yyyyy. I like the way I cook Tilapia. Its a very mild fishy, and takes very little prep and very little time too cook. It totally slipped my mind to take a quick photo of our little dinner on our awesome square plates, so I owe you all that.

Here we go.

I must admit, I used frozen fillets. The bags of frozen fillets usually run about 5 bucks. Not bad for dinner and someone’s lunch tomorrow.

So, 4, or as many as you need tilapia fillets.

Plain bread crumbs.

Parsley.

Garlic powder.

Salt.

PePpEr.

Olive Oil.

If you are using frozen, make sure they are defrosted…haha, duh right? And, then rinse them fillets….rinse ‘em good. Use a tiny bit of olive oil to coat each one, you can do this one at a time, or you can do this in a plate with them all…up to you. I dont measure, so try to get enough bread crumbs to cover each fishy, and a little bit of each of the other stuff. You can put that in a plate. Take your coated fillet, place in bread crumbs, and make sure it gets covered. This can go into the pan of your choice. I made them tonight in one of those floppy silicone pans….not a big fan, the fish seems to come out crisssspier when done on a metal pan. (Just a thought) After that is all done drip some olive oil over the top and some lemon juice, and when your oven is preheated to a wonderful 350 F. They go in for about 12-15, maybe even 1 minutes, depending on the size. It’s sooooooo stinking simple.;-) With this dinner we ate some steamed brocoli, and some left over grilled sweet potatoes…. Healthy, tasty, yum.

I will also add that my darling husband put Frank’s on his fish….haha….for once I did not use the heavenly sauce.

Well, I will be getting to bed soon, have a nice 12 hour shift ahead of me tomorrow, and I would rather not be responsible for someone’s health taking a “worser” toll.

Thats all she fillet-ed.

C

Teeeee-to-the-Peeeeee

It has nothing to do with PEEEE. Well, actually it does. TP. Toilet Paper, poeple. I bought a good amount before we moved in, and I am seeing it go. Quickly. I guess I never realized that my parents had to buy toilet paper. And when my ginormous package runs out, or well, close to it, I will have to purchase more. I don’t think my husband has a clue. TP can not be recycled. I wish we could reuse it, but that would be terribly UN-hygienic.

In other news, the apartment is coming along, slowly, but coming along, slowly. Slowly. Slowly. And yes, slowly. We basically rent a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, eating area, and crap room. It is full of garbage.

Other stuff: wedding stuff is coming along, slowly. If it wasn’t for mom I would be moving backwards, I imagine. Mario Galaxy, haven’t played in a while.

Well, gotta get to the gym.

That’s all she wrote…

C

something i received something to like

I got this awesome card from an awesome friend for my shower, I loved it. And I guess it’s so nice and cheesy its worth sharing.

“real love is the real life that stars after the bouquet has been tossed…it’s the caring and sharing that comes when life gets busy, bills need to be paid, and errands need to be run. it’s laughing and teasing and working things out. it’s learning and knowing what your partner needs-even without asking. it’s the little jokes that only the two of you understand. REAL LOVE is building a real life together- and there’s simply nothing stronger than that.”

Yes.Mushy.But.I.Love.It.

That’s all that she wrote

C

a tribute…..

…..to my husband.

My husband is amazing. I want everyone to know that. Not only is he incredibly intelligent and hard working, he is super handsome and just awesome. I do not tell him enough that I love him. I try to show him by keeping the refridgerator stocked, but that is hard, loving him is not. I was so relieved that he returned from Iraq in one peice, and also releaved that he did not stop loving me. Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky. To meet him so long ago, and get him back. And hopefully keep him for a long, long time.

Here are a few photos from our 4th of July weekend in the Adirondacks, and there will be more….

That’s all she wrote (for today),

C

Something to say….

…..I have a lot to say….but I have not had a chance to share it. What a shame. You can not read my ramblings on about whatever. I will….I will….I will…..after skydiving today!!!!!!

FYI.

Ahhhhh…..It is August 11th. This means that I am still alive and kickin after the wedding. It went so well. The weather was slightly less than perfect, but overall, after the best man showed up (yes, he was late) everything went as planned, well not quite as planned since we didn’t have much of a plan. My wonderful aunts really made the day super special by doing the final decorating. (Thank you.) Michael danced the night away, and to my surprise had a great time! I did too. Before my hair got super frizzy and my makeup wiped away (due to frosting) I thought I looked pretty good. It was a blast and it was so nice to see our families and friends having a great time. I will post some pictures when I get some (and hopefully some video.)

So now I am hoping that things will slow down, even for a few weeks. We both start school in September, well Michael full time, me just one graduate class. I know I (or we) will be busy with family matters, but hopfully everything will go well.

Thats all she wrote,

C

Recipe Review.

So I have been slacking. But I have not been out of the kitchen. And we have been out to eat.

I bought pork chops because they were a really good price. I did not know what to do with them. Then I found this recipe and it went over really well!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 sun-dried tomatoes, diced
• 1 (10-ounce) bag of frozen spinach, thawed and excess water squeezed out
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup (2 ounces) goat cheese
• 1/3 cup reduced-fat cream cheese
• 4 (4-ounce) center-cut pork chops
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 lemon, zested
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

Directions

Warm the 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saute pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until combined, about 2 more minutes. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl. Add the goat cheese and the cream cheese. Stir to combine and set aside.

Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the thickest portion of the pork chop. Stuff each pocket with 1/4 of the spinach and sun-dried tomato mixture and close the pork around the stuffing. Season the outside of the pork with salt and pepper.

In a small bowl combine the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and mustard.

Warm the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot add the pork. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer the pork to a side dish and tent with foil to keep warm. Add the chicken broth mixture to the skillet over medium-high heat. Scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan as the chicken broth simmers. Reduce the broth by half to make a light sauce, about 8 minutes. Spoon some sauce over the pork before serving.

Manners.

Thank you.

You’re welcome.

NUFF SAID.

back to reality

I really need to get back to blogggggging. I’m really not this lazy. We’ll see.

That’s all she wrote.

C

Lemme tell you a story……

Once upon the time the refrigerator was empty. Once upon a time a man went to the store. When the woman came home from working 12 hours she discovered there was ONE new item in the refrigerator. There was no food, but that seltzer was the only thing he could manage to buy. I laugh about it now.

That’s all she bought,

C

it’s unbelizable (oh!)

Here are some photos from our awesome trip. Should have more to come.

Enjoy. Hopefully I will get the time to post more and tell you a little about it!

That’s all she snapped,

C

let me tell you….

……I have never been ‘lucky’ enough to get the chance to buy, or even look at a new, or the newest of the used cars. Thanks to a lovely young man my little old civic was totaled on no less that Friday the 13th!!! Oh joy. So I began the task of researching and becoming informed on vehicles. I will no longer be driving a car. I want to the the proud parent of a small, or compact as they say SUV.  I was even complimented on my knowledge of the compact SUV’s I looked at. Oh joy. So now, here comes the dilemma. I was not even considering looking at American made but I stumbled across a very lovely little SUV called the GMC Terrain. So up until that point I was mostly leaning to the Honda CR-V. (After test driving the CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Sante Fe. Oh joy.) The little GMC has some awesome features, a 6 speed automatic, and option for a 6 cylinder engine (I like that) but since it is NEW to the market I am terrified (it also has blue tooth so you can connect to your phone and a REAR view camera!). Oh joy. I told my very patient husband I would have a decision by today. I do not. Oh joy. But alas, my ANT (yes, ant) tells me about the Volkswagon Tiguan. Also a 6 speed, 4 cylinder, but turbo. Same price as the Terrain, but imported. I am screwed. Oh joy. This is where I am at. Oh joy. I know that Honda’s have a pretty awesome ‘keep-their-value’ thing going on, so this is just getting worse. I feel like if I wait too long it will make it harder and I will NEVER make a decision. Oh joy. However, might I add, that I am blessed to be able to be in the position to be able to purchase and afford a vehicle, and a vehicle like one of these.

This will remain my dilemma. Hopefully not for too much longer. You know, if I was never hit I would never be put in the predicament!

That’s all she test drove,

C

PS Let me tell you.

I am the proud owner of a new Honda CR-V and a ball python who gets out every week.

That’s all she wrote,
c

I made this and you should too, ‘specially if you like chocolate….

I made this chocolate mousse to have for dessert after my family’s delicious Thanksgiving meal. I did also make a more traditional pumpkin cake, but the mousse served in dark chocolate cups with raspberries went over really well! (Honestly, I was surprised I didn’t kill it). I doubled the recipe, and omitted the espresso.

Ingredients

4 1/2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
2 tablespoons (1 ounce) unsalted butter, diced
2 tablespoons espresso or very strong coffee (I used decaf espresso from a local Starbucks)
1 cup cold heavy cream
3 large eggs, separated
1 tablespoon sugar

(Optional) Raspberries and extra whipped cream

Method

1 Whip the cream to soft peaks, then refrigerate.

2 Combine the chocolate, butter, and espresso in the top of a double boiler over hot, but not simmering, water, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from the heat and let cool until the chocolate is just slightly warmer than body temperature. To test, dab some chocolate on your bottom lip. It should feel warm. If it is too cool, the mixture will seize when the other ingredients are added.

3 Once the melted chocolate has cooled slightly, whip the egg whites in a medium bowl until they are foamy and beginning to hold a shape. Sprinkle in the sugar and beat until soft peaks form.

4 When the chocolate has reached the proper temperature, stir in the yolks. Gently stir in about one-third of the whipped cream. Fold in half the whites just until incorporated, then fold in the remaining whites, and finally the remaining whipped cream.

5 Spoon or pipe the mousse into a serving bowl or individual dishes. If you wish, layer in fresh raspberries and whipped cream. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours. (The mousse can be refrigerated for up to a day.)

Serves 5-8, depending on the size of the servings.

Photos are of the ones I made, courtesy of my awesome cousin, Jon.

That’s all she whipped up, for now,

C

Christmas time.

My husband asked me why I love Christmas time so much the other day. I never answered him. Here is the answer. Kinda.

Since I was little I remember Christmas being with my family. My mom, dad, sister, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents…..Being all together and laughing….who could ask for a better time? I remember going to the Adirondacks and ice skating on the lake with my Jon, Em and Max (the German Shepard), learning how to snowboard (which I am pretty sure I forgot how to do), playing and hanging out with my cousins all day. I will admit, ya, we liked getting gifts, but that was nothing compared to how much  fun we had all together. Everyone cooking, eating, laughing. Sometimes a little too much wine. I guess when I was younger you didn’t have to worry about who was sick, or gone, you were left out so you would have a good time. I remember Christmas’s at home with just us, and how it was nice to be just us too. Anyway, even though the real reason for Christmas has nothing to do with you or I, in celebration we all come together (when we can). And I love it.

That’s all the memories for now,

C

“Don’t touch my mama, and don’t touch my doritos.”

Quote from a four year old during a commercial during the superbowl.

What else is new the masses ask?

We are house hunting. Yes. It is official. Thumbs up, Thumbs down, Thumbs sideways. Hate it, Love it, Kinda like it. We have looked at several, and have several more to go. It is a BIG step. It is OVERWHELMING, but very exciting. We have fallen in love with one house in particular, but can’t make a decision, YET. Even though, I think we want to. We have a great realtor, who is not just nice, but has great taste. My mother has joined us in our quest to find a perfect home for us, and as much as I think we have created a monster, her advice is great and she can see beyond the “old lady-ness” and “over carpeted-ness” of many houses. There was an odd moment at of of the houses we looked at. The house was OK, not for us, but the peculiar part was a man said his wife was in the other room and does not speak English. I guestimate the man to be between 55 and 60 (but I am no forensic anthropologist) and the non-speaking-English-he-said-she-was-Peruvian-wife was probably between 30 and 35 (but I am no forensic anthropologist). I think he purchased her from buyabridefromperu.com. Enough said on that. I can’t wait to have a home though. A nice BIG kitchen (where we both fit), more than one toilet, walls to paint our own colors, my own yard that I can have my own garden in, a place where we can have more than two people over, a place to make ours! That is the best part.

Other that that? What else? Michael is now enrolled in Saint John Fisher College. He is a full time student, and depending on the day depends on how enthusiastic he is about it. He is studying accounting (way over my head). He also needs to make some doctors appointments and shave (very, very big beard- gets complimented by other men allllllllllll the time). Michael is also kicking my butt and Mario Bros for Wii. He usually is not better than me, so I feel like I should share this, for his sake.

Hmmmmm…. I have transferred to a new department with in the hospital, and made my way to Emergency. So far, so good. I am on orientation for 5 more shifts. It’s a busy place, but in ED, it seems that docs and nurses work closer together and most docs respect us a little more. It’s nice, the relationship is a little more laid back.  I think I will try to run a marathon this year. My asthma has not been agreeable with me, once it is good and controlled I will start training. I also have a boxing match on February 28th and possibly March 26th. I am also debating on a hair cut. But I am scarred. My hair is to my elbows. So I am comfortable. I am also considering a different direction with graduate school, but nothing concrete, so I won’t go there, yet.

That’s all we house hunted, studied, breathed, and transferred for now,

C

Guess what I made tonight?

BROWNIES. From scratch.

Made these from a recipe book from my mother in law. Really simple, and a fork works, no need to get out the mixer.

Here’s what you need and what you need to do:

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup HERSHEY’S Cocoa
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2/3 cup butter or margarine, melted and divided
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1-1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Chocolate Chips or HERSHEY’S Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
• ONE-BOWL BUTTERCREAM FROSTING(recipe follows)

‘(I don’t think it really matters if you use ‘Hershey’ products or not…)

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 13x9x2-inch baking pan or two 8-inch square baking pans.

2. Stir together cocoa and baking soda in large bowl; stir in 1/3 cup butter. Add boiling water; stir until mixture thickens. Stir in sugar, eggs and remaining 1/3 cup butter; stir until smooth. Add flour, vanilla and salt; blend completely. Stir in chocolate chips. Pour into prepared pan.

3. Bake 35 to 40 minutes for rectangular pan, 30 to 35 minutes for square pans or until brownies begin to pull away from sides of pan. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Frost with ONE-BOWL BUTTERCREAM FROSTING. Cut into squares. About 36 brownies.

*I think mine were only in the oven about 32 minutes, so watch that*

For the frosting (it is tasty):

Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
• 2-2/3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup HERSHEY’S Cocoa
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Beat butter in medium bowl. Add powdered sugar and cocoa alternately with milk, beating to spreading consistency (additional milk may be needed). Stir in vanilla. About 2 cups frosting.

Of course, had to get the mixer out for the frosting, but it was still very easy.

About a week a ago I made my hubby hot cocoa from scratch, I think it is so much fuller and richer than the powder, even though the powder is convenient, there is no comparison, and this is easy too (just more time).

I used 2 cups of skim milk, about 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1/4 cup of non-sweetened powdered cocoa. Just warmed the milk, put in the other 2 ingredients and whisked. That’s all! MMMMMMmmmm!

Anyway, tomorrow will be full of house hunting….not real exciting, more like exhausting, but gotta do it! Went to kettlebell this morning, and man it is a tough awesome workout! Unless you have a bad knee or shoulder you should try it. My only issue is it really tears my hands apart, gotta do something about that.

That’s all I baked, boiled and stirred, for now,

C

WhAt’S uP, dOwN, aNd AlL aRoUnD?

LOL. Our emotions!!!! We found a lovely house a few weeks ago, and I was hoping to NOT post anything about it until I would be able to post “We Got It!” But, we haven’t. Ugh. We haven’t because we have been put on the roller coaster of home-loving. We really like this house people! But, those whose know hands that it is in, do not seem to like us. (It’s an estate and the kids are penny pincha’s who live on the other side of the country!!!) Offer-Counter-Offer-Counter-No chance-Hey we will let you have a chance-Oh crap its falling apart. That is where we are at. Almost at the end of our rope. House hunting, as many people know, is EXHAUSTING! And to finally find one we like (a lot) and AGREE on is a big deal, only to get thrown into a battle, or a war, however you see it. I say battle, because IF we do get this house we will have many “battles” fixing it. She needs a lot of love, and we are very willing to give it and make her our own. I have taken many pictures, and hope to post many “before’s and after’s” of our work. I really wanna show of our wanna-be house. We shall see. Anyway, gots to go be a nurse

That’s all the house hunt for now,

C

We took a strollllllllllllllll.

My husband and I took a walk at the Mount Hope Cemetary. It was after a lot of snow. It was a really nice day.

That’s all we walked,

C

4 Months in the ED….

…..Will make any sane person realize that there are fewer of us and more of “them.” Drunks, pregnancy fakers (or fakers of the preggers), heroin overdoses, drunks, gunshots, stabbings, drunks, 4 day cocaine bingers, addicted to IV pain “medicationers,” drunks….and the list could go on. The sad part is the people who really need care for a REAL health problems don’t get the care they need because I am forced to baby sit the “others.” I find myself apologizing, for the screaming thing a few rooms over and “excuse me I have to go see what this is about.” I love how other people come in to get their “HIGH” and leave. Good go, and please spend more of MY money when you walk out that door. Don’t get me wrong, for the most part, I really enjoy it but people don’t come to the Emergency Department for a rubber sandwhich and your wrist that has been aching for 3 months….REALLY?

Eh, All in a days work…..I guess

That’s all the blood she drew for now,

C

Food, INC

In light of recent events I have been researching, and trying to learn and eat more “green.” I really enjoy cooking and I think most of the time my husband (and myself) enjoys eating it (he even ate my disastrous fish tacos) and we both enjoy expanding our palettes (usually me with more caution). My mom has been sick and it has made me realize how important it is to watch what we put in our bodies. Now, there is no way I think I can give up ice cream or chocolate completely, but we don’t eat those everyday they should be limited (even the organic brands). I have started reading Anticancer: A New Of Life written by David Servan-Schreiber, it is about his own experience with those disgusting life-debilitating cells. It is really interesting. I have not gotten to the part when the author describes how our diets should be but when I do I will share, but I did learn that it is all about organics from my mom. This lead me to do some research on Sarah Snow, some sort of organic living expert and on her Facebook page they talk about the movie Food, INC.  WOW. There are about 2 parts in the movie that I don’t agree with, but the movie is fascinating. It is a documentary about where our food comes from. How some high percentage (like 90%) of the food in the grocery store that you shop at comes from the same 4 or 5 companies. America’s beef comes from the same 4 companies and how they feed the cows corn which increases the rate of E. Coli and then we eat it. The animals live in terrible conditions, it is so sad. YUM. Well, I think it is so informative and educational. Needless to say I have been eating salads. I am no vegetarian, but it makes me think.

So now, I am really trying to think and realize and be aware of what we put in our bodies.

That’s all she read and watched for now,

C

the CHALLLLLLLLLLENGE.

So, it is May 1st 2010. For the last 10 days or so I asked my husband if he could go without red meat. He did. And he did it very well. So then yesterday while we were getting ready to head out to take a walk and grab so ice cream by the lake he asked me if I could go a month without ICE CREAM. Well, of course not. ICE CREAM is a little small piece of heaven on this crappy earth, the cold creamy goodness that melts in your mouth on a hot of cold day, the deliciousness that makes us happy, and the sweetness that makes us feel so, well, sweet and satisfied. So I have decided to see if I can go a month. I think it will be VERY VERY hard…..but if I could lose a few pounds from doing it then great, and I may feel better if I cut out some refined sugars. So here I go. This is only day 1 and I feel like I am going through withdrawl….oh crap how will I feel at day 6? It is truely scarry.

That’s all she ICE CREAM-D for now,

C

day 2 of the negative ice cream challenge.

Well, there is 1 hour left in day #2. And I have not eaten a lick of the creamy goodness. BUT, my lovely aunt (or ant, as I used to call her) did attempt to TEMP me. It did not work. I think I inherited my “I scream, I scream, I scream for ice cream” gene from her…. She tried to tell me that if I drank a milk shake it would not count because it would not be in the same form as actually ice cream. However, I know, and you know that would be cheating. And on mere day #2 I over came. But I am worried that by day 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, etc, things may get worse and I will be in active withdrawal and in need of some HUGE doses of valium.

Well, at least today is over….and tomorrow will be another day without ice cream =(

C

challenge. day 3.

So far so good. Dreaming of ice cream? Yes. Eating it? No. The next few days should be easier because I will be working several 12 hour shifts in a row.

Days 3-8, the challenge continues….

SOOOOO I have made it this far….well, we are not completely done with today, but I think I will make it, that hard part will be day 9, Mother’s Day.

C

The House BEFORE

So apparently, after all the drama we should be getting our house….but I’m not counting on it….Here are some BEFORE pics….and hopefully we will make it look a thousand times better!

hopefully there will be plenty of during and after photos, just give us a few months….

thats all she wrote

c

The 9th and 10th days…..

Still have not had any ice cream. I miss it, like a fat kid loves cake, like a white ED nurse misses ice cream.

C

11,12,13,14,15…..

I will not eat ice cream, I will not eat ice cream….

….I am actually doin ok.

C

the 16th, 17th, 18th….

…..I NEED ice cream, I guess because I rely on ice cream emotionally. Mom is sick, and now, my sister is in the hospital getting surgery today….man, ice cream would be perfect. So, when Bridget gets outta the hospital I will make her any meal she wants (because a clear liquid diet is not cutting it for her), and if its ice cream for desert, then I will have failed my goal of no ice cream this month…..

C

Marianne Elizabeth Quinn.

My mom. Dad’s wife. Granma’s daughter. Siblings sister. Nieces/Nephews Aunt. Good Friend. I can’t speak for anyone else, but I really miss her.

January 17, 1955- November 16, 2010.

 

Obituary

challenges.

I have counted every day since my mom’s death. Each day brings a new challenge. I started back to work a few days ago and sometimes it feels so good and other times I struggle, especially with patients that remind me of her. I know that she would want me to go to work and give my best, and I try but I think many times I fail. I have not been sleeping, and when I do fall asleep I dream about her. I lay there and think about her. Her last few hours play over and over. The last few months I think about what I should have done differently. I think about my family, and how most have not even sent me a text to ask how I am doing. I have started working out again, it is good but sometimes it is such a struggle to get myself out of the house. It is good my cousin wants to do a 1/2 marathon next May (for cancer) because if it wasn’t for starting running again I would really be sedintary. I don’t want to move. I wanted her to see fireworks once more before she died and I couldn’t take her. I miss her, and they say it gets easier but I don’t know, I think its getting harder. I worry about my dad. I feel bad when I don’t see him because I am at work. I really can’t believe she is gone. I want her back.

Mom’s picture movie.

Month One.

Mom has been gone one month today. It still hurts, sometimes a little less, sometimes a lot more. You begin to realize that she is not coming back- but life has to keep going now that she is gone. I thought my family would call more than they do- but they really don’t- I thought there would be more support- there isn’t. I wish she would give me a sign, so I know that she still is here, that she misses me as much as I miss her. I feel bad, I have started back to work and do not get to spend much time with my dad.

Christmas Post.

Christmas was not the same without mom. She always loved giving us gifts and labeling them so that we never knew whose was whose- and after a while she would forget too. Last years Christmas was pretty funny with her. This years Christmas was so empty without her. While I did love our company it was still empty. I have talked to one family member, my aunt. They still do not call, and a random text does not mean that much- it is so dissapointing. I think dad got pretty spoiled this year, by all of us….he deserved it, even though it is just material type things. My inlaws had us over for Christmas Eve and invited dad- he had a great time and everyone enjoyed his company. He is a great guy.

Miss you momma.

Mom’s Birthday

My mom should have been 56 on January 17th. But she did not get to see another birthday. I so badly wanted to take her to see fireworks one last time. There are so many things I would have like to do with her ONE LAST TIME. Life is not fair! It was so far one of the hardest since she left. I know it is the plan of something bigger but I still want to be selfish and feel sorry about everything. Still they dont call. Don’t check in. I think she still looks down and is checking up on us. I wish dad was not so sad and lonely. I wish Bridget wasn’t struggling. I want her here and cancer took her and now what do we do?

In The Midst…

Lately, it seems to me at least, and this is strictly from my own perspective; life has not been that good to me. The last few months and the months leading up to them have been one trial after another. Do I attract it? Mom getting sick, My sister needing surgery while mom was sick, mom getting worse (it was a 2 steps back one forward kind of decline for her) and our own loss. I have begun to wonder where is the good stuff? I do think that happiness is a choice, but do circumstances like this lead you to be able to make the choice to be happy (or not)? I guess happiness is not what I need, I need joy. Where do I find either? Should I even feel sad? Sometimes I feel as though it is wrong to feel sad because I have been blessed beyond measure, or way beyond what I deserve? If I am grieving can I be happy at the same time? I think I have become a little obsessed with all of this, but I think about all of this constantly. I think about it at the gym, at work, at home, at whenever. It’s probably not good for me.

There is a small bright side, I guess. I am looking foward to working out a lot this spring/summer, getting deeper into “kettlebelling” and hopefully some 1/2 marathoning. I start a new job- well still a nurse, but a new department, so that may also be a breath of fresh air, and a good change of scenery for me- and maybe re-spark my interest in nursing. I know mom would not want me to ebeat myself up over this, she would tell me not to be sad and keep movin on with life, but she never had to experience losing her mom, and it is probably the worse thing I have ever had to go though. I just want her back, and maybe everything else that has not gone right would not feel so bad.

I hope she is having a great time, planting her garden in Heaven.

Phat. Actually, FAT.

Wow. Must eat better. I always start that tomorrow. Better actually get on that. Got a deadline. Get moving, well I do move, just can’t eat, buy or love the icecream anymore! Oh and for my birthday I want an icecream maker!

kettle-sessed!

I am obsessed with kettlebells. They are awesome. You will never get a workout quite like a workout with kettlebells. I originally started doing it to supplement my boxing addiction but now boxing supplements my kettlebell workouts. Coach Dom and Jen have taught me a lot and I am hoping to start competing and maybe down the road become a master of sport (that takes a LOT of weight!) Right now I am looking to compete in a Long Cycle Jerk competition with 16 kg (approximately 35.2 pounds) that you have to work with for 10 minutes! See one here! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJicYOqbykc and this one http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIovgZOoIic&feature=related These women are my heroes, everyday ladies who can out lift many men! That is all for now, but I think I will keep a tally on how much I lift in kettlebell later today and see how much I did!

 

Garden. From Scratch.

My mom did it for years, and her mom before her. So this year it is my turn to try. Starting my own garden. We did so much work on the interior of our house this year it is time to work a little more on the exterior weather permitting of course. I do so badly wish that mom was here to guide me, or just plain boss me around, because she knew this stuff so well. I have tulips growing, the only thing that I planted last fall, before it got to cold. They look mostly good, except for the ones that the bunnies have chewed. I have planted my seeds, figured I won’t buy plants, I’ll buy seeds and start them myself! This is what we have growing: Lettuce (a few varieties), carrots, beans, zucchini (green and yellow squash), tomatoes, artichokes (don’t know how successful I will be with these), watermelons, pumpkins, etcetera. We really need to work on an enclosure, unfortunately we have bunnies and bambies (deer) (so we will need a physical barrier). I am really excited to be producing my own food to cook and feed!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here is my plant “beginnings” They are all in here…So these are my plants, or “plant-lings” so far. The seem to be making good progress, except for the watermelon seeds. I also (hopefully with the help of my husband) have to work in the area that will be our veggie garden.  The pictures following are of the area. I did measure it, and will use this website to try to plan everything. We do need to turn over the grass and put some type or ‘border’ around the area, and of course keep the lil animals out.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(I took the plants out today, except the tulips, and the stupid little wood border, fence thing)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy spring, happy gardening,

Cindy

we keep grrooowwwwiiiiinnnnnnggggggg

Yay my plants are growin…well, I am not sure about the eggplant but everything else is coming along, some a little quicker than others. Can’t wait to get the garden turned over this week so I can get the lettuce out there soon…with hopes that no creatures will dine on it.

They are getting big! Not great quality but still, I’m doin it!

 

In other news my friend, Melinda and her husband Paul welcomed baby Evan yesterday, April 11th…he is perfect and I am so happy for them! Working on the unit is interesting! ICU is such a nice change for me, and hopefully I will be able to put in a few years here! I am learning a lot and everyone seems pretty awesome! Anyway, I am gonna relax for a bit then go for a run.

In memory of mom, the best gardener ever. She would not have liked this photo, but she was so happy with her family. On earth that was her heaven.

xoxox

Cindy

 

Wine. Ice Cream.

I haven’t had ice cream in 2 weeks. So I had a big glass of wine. Go me.

xoxoxox,

Cindy

Mom and her girls, who miss her so much.

5fingers5toesletsputsomemilesin

Meet my vibram 5 fingers. Can’t wait until my feet adapt so I can use them for running and kettlebell. Wonder how many wierd looks I will get, but whatever, hopefully they are as good as they say!