“For an athlete to function properly, he must be intent. There has to be a definite purpose and goal if you are to progress. If you are not intent about what you are doing, you aren't able to resist the temptation to do something else that might be more fun at the moment.” ~John Wooden
In 2009 I accomplished a lot, and lived with as much intention as one can muster.
Possibly my biggest accomplishment? I'm not sure if I'm an athlete yet, but I'm definitely more athletic and healthier than I was at the beginning of 2009. I've continued running (even though I'm still not fond of it), have been going to spin and core conditioning classes lately, and recently started cross-country skiing. The kids got me a set of touring skis for Christmas, so I am looking forward to spending more time on the snow, making my way to the many warming shelters in the area.
Showing posts with label ponderings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ponderings. Show all posts
Thursday, December 31
Monday, September 7
Rules
a.k.a. Things to know when hiking with a teenage boy
Today (Labor Day) Stinky and I went hiking. Specifically, we hiked from the Jack Lake trailhead to Booth Lake. Originally we wanted to take the Canyon Creek Meadows trail but a big group arrived at the trailhead right behind us. So... we hiked the opposite direction. Because we could.
Unfortunately that meant we didn't know much about the trail. Except that it would go through nature, and hopefully past some beautiful places.
And hopefully not too steep. Mamma don't "do" steep. (Except, apparently, when I climbed South Sister. But that's a whole other story.)
Today (Labor Day) Stinky and I went hiking. Specifically, we hiked from the Jack Lake trailhead to Booth Lake. Originally we wanted to take the Canyon Creek Meadows trail but a big group arrived at the trailhead right behind us. So... we hiked the opposite direction. Because we could.
Unfortunately that meant we didn't know much about the trail. Except that it would go through nature, and hopefully past some beautiful places.
And hopefully not too steep. Mamma don't "do" steep. (Except, apparently, when I climbed South Sister. But that's a whole other story.)
Thursday, April 9
Pedal
It's cooled down outside, I notice, as I begin my journey home. My shadow, long and stretched out, rides in front of me.
The wind that had chilled me while running still blows, but now it cushions my ears against the sound of the traffic rushing along Franklin Avenue. I make my way along the side of the road slowly, timing my pace with the traffic light ahead. I'm tired, and wonder if I have to stop, will I be able to get going again?
Distance and small hills that I take for granted in my car loom large from my bike. I maneuver around fallen pine cones, sticks, and other detritus in my lane. Cars pass occasionally - I can hear those with winter tire studs grinding towards me from further back.
I'm energized each time I reach a landmark... that park, a roundabout, the school, and the store. When I reach the store I know I'm almost home. From there it isn't much further, and there are no large hills left to climb.
The breeze has died down, and in this part of town, at this time of day, there is little traffic. It's peaceful, that last leg of my journey. As I turn into my neighborhood I feel the weight of the accomplishment. I can make that commute on my bike. And I will do it again... soon. For now, I give myself a few days off, and will try it again the next time the sun is shining!
The wind that had chilled me while running still blows, but now it cushions my ears against the sound of the traffic rushing along Franklin Avenue. I make my way along the side of the road slowly, timing my pace with the traffic light ahead. I'm tired, and wonder if I have to stop, will I be able to get going again?
Distance and small hills that I take for granted in my car loom large from my bike. I maneuver around fallen pine cones, sticks, and other detritus in my lane. Cars pass occasionally - I can hear those with winter tire studs grinding towards me from further back.
I'm energized each time I reach a landmark... that park, a roundabout, the school, and the store. When I reach the store I know I'm almost home. From there it isn't much further, and there are no large hills left to climb.
The breeze has died down, and in this part of town, at this time of day, there is little traffic. It's peaceful, that last leg of my journey. As I turn into my neighborhood I feel the weight of the accomplishment. I can make that commute on my bike. And I will do it again... soon. For now, I give myself a few days off, and will try it again the next time the sun is shining!
Monday, April 6
Sprouts
I am home from running, and weary. It's unseasonably warm outside and I want a cool shower. First I must attend to the dog's needs - she's happy to be home and in her yard, where she is comfortable doing her business. Waiting for her, I notice the lilac bushes are budding out with green leaves. I wonder if they will finally bloom this year.
Inside, the dog is grateful for the large bowl of cool water that I set by her food. She slurps up water and collapses on the cool wood floor.
Meanwhile I notice that the tiny pots holding the seeds we have planted are dry. My kids are beyond the age where they stare and marvel at how much a tiny plant can grow in just a day.
While I water them I notice the ones that were only two inches tall are now three, and those that were only sprouts yesterday are now one or two inches tall.
And still more have tiny shoots of green, barely visible, starting to peek out above the soil.
I don't have a watering can, just an old glass bottle from Trader Joe's that used to hold lemonade or something equally refreshing. I have to hold the bottle steady so as not to splash too much water over the tiny plants, uprooting the delicate seedlings.
The mourning doves that live in the juniper tree coo, and a jay lectures the neighborhood's stray cat.
Tomorrow I will again marvel at how fast the tiny plants have grown, and worry about the ones that have not yet sprouted. Soon I will have to consider when to thin and what. I will watch anxiously for the day when the snow has melted off Black Butte, the threat of frost has passed, and I know it's safe to move them to their permanent beds outside our living room window.
But first, I'm going to take that shower.
Inside, the dog is grateful for the large bowl of cool water that I set by her food. She slurps up water and collapses on the cool wood floor.
Meanwhile I notice that the tiny pots holding the seeds we have planted are dry. My kids are beyond the age where they stare and marvel at how much a tiny plant can grow in just a day.
While I water them I notice the ones that were only two inches tall are now three, and those that were only sprouts yesterday are now one or two inches tall.
And still more have tiny shoots of green, barely visible, starting to peek out above the soil.
I don't have a watering can, just an old glass bottle from Trader Joe's that used to hold lemonade or something equally refreshing. I have to hold the bottle steady so as not to splash too much water over the tiny plants, uprooting the delicate seedlings.
The mourning doves that live in the juniper tree coo, and a jay lectures the neighborhood's stray cat.
Tomorrow I will again marvel at how fast the tiny plants have grown, and worry about the ones that have not yet sprouted. Soon I will have to consider when to thin and what. I will watch anxiously for the day when the snow has melted off Black Butte, the threat of frost has passed, and I know it's safe to move them to their permanent beds outside our living room window.
But first, I'm going to take that shower.
Saturday, April 4
Chicks
Don't get me wrong... I think chickens are OK and I loooove fresh eggs. If I didn't work full time and we had a little more space, I'd probably have my own. Raising chickens is a lot of work and responsibility and work. And it's all very worth it. At the very least I hope my friends that are first-time chicken raisers are practicing good hand-washing every time they handle a chick... and keeping their coops and pens clean.
I don't think any animal should be given as a gift for birthdays or holidays... especially cute, cuddly baby chicks for Easter. Anna Johnson at Deschutes County sent this to me, and it's just one of the many reasons why you shouldn't give the kids a chick in their Easter basket...
As spring and the Easter holiday approach, local and state health officials warn of the potential Salmonella bacteria chicks, ducklings and other young fowl can carry.
According to the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS), these animals may not be appropriate as pets for children younger than five or for persons with weakened immune systems.
DHS also states that Salmonella poisoning from baby poultry purchased as pets or for backyard flocks represents an ongoing public health concern and causes multiple hospitalizations each year. Two cases have been identified in Oregon over the past few weeks; both had contact with young poultry. Both patients are recovering.
Many chicks carry Salmonella bacteria in their intestinal tract and intermittently or continuously shed these bacteria in their feces. Salmonella bacteria often may not cause any illness in chicks, but can cause serious illness in people.
Salmonella bacteria are easily spread from chicks to humans. Humans may become infected when they place their hands on objects that have been in contact with the stool of chicks, and then touch food that they eat. For Salmonella bacteria to spread from chicks to humans, the bacteria must be ingested. Therefore, simply touching or holding a chick will not result in spread of bacteria unless something contaminated with chick feces or the chick itself is placed in the mouth.
Most Salmonella infections in humans result in a mild, self-limiting illness characterized by diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. However, the infection can spread to the bloodstream, bone marrow or nervous system, leading to severe and sometimes fatal illness. Such severe infections are more likely to occur in infants and in individuals whose immune system is compromised (for instance, bone marrow transplant recipients, people with diabetes mellitus or those infected with the human immunodeficiency virus, and chemotherapy patients).
Fortunately, the spread of Salmonella bacteria from chicks to humans can
be easily prevented by using the following routine precautions:
This information is not meant to discourage chick or poultry ownership. With a few exceptions (for example, infants or immune-compromised individuals), most people have a low risk of acquiring Salmonella from chicks. This risk, however, can be reduced even further by following simple precautions. Purchasers of chicks should be aware of the methods for reducing their risk of acquiring Salmonella bacteria from poultry.
For more information about the risk of Salmonella illness, please call Deschutes County Health Services at 322-7400.
Anna M. Johnson
Public Communications Coordinator
DESCHUTES COUNTY
(541) 330-4640 office
(541) 280-5263 cell
(541) 385-3202 fax
1300 NW Wall Street, Ste. 200
Bend, OR 97701
www.deschutes.org
www.deschutes.org/mostwanted/
I don't think any animal should be given as a gift for birthdays or holidays... especially cute, cuddly baby chicks for Easter. Anna Johnson at Deschutes County sent this to me, and it's just one of the many reasons why you shouldn't give the kids a chick in their Easter basket...
As spring and the Easter holiday approach, local and state health officials warn of the potential Salmonella bacteria chicks, ducklings and other young fowl can carry.
According to the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS), these animals may not be appropriate as pets for children younger than five or for persons with weakened immune systems.
DHS also states that Salmonella poisoning from baby poultry purchased as pets or for backyard flocks represents an ongoing public health concern and causes multiple hospitalizations each year. Two cases have been identified in Oregon over the past few weeks; both had contact with young poultry. Both patients are recovering.
Many chicks carry Salmonella bacteria in their intestinal tract and intermittently or continuously shed these bacteria in their feces. Salmonella bacteria often may not cause any illness in chicks, but can cause serious illness in people.
Salmonella bacteria are easily spread from chicks to humans. Humans may become infected when they place their hands on objects that have been in contact with the stool of chicks, and then touch food that they eat. For Salmonella bacteria to spread from chicks to humans, the bacteria must be ingested. Therefore, simply touching or holding a chick will not result in spread of bacteria unless something contaminated with chick feces or the chick itself is placed in the mouth.
Most Salmonella infections in humans result in a mild, self-limiting illness characterized by diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. However, the infection can spread to the bloodstream, bone marrow or nervous system, leading to severe and sometimes fatal illness. Such severe infections are more likely to occur in infants and in individuals whose immune system is compromised (for instance, bone marrow transplant recipients, people with diabetes mellitus or those infected with the human immunodeficiency virus, and chemotherapy patients).
Fortunately, the spread of Salmonella bacteria from chicks to humans can
be easily prevented by using the following routine precautions:
- Always wash your hands with hot, soapy water after handling chicks, chick cages and equipment, and the stool of chicks.
- Keep chicks penned in outside buildings. Always wash your hands after coming into contact with any area where chicks are kept.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling chicks, chick cages, or chick equipment. Do not kiss chicks or share food or drink with them.
- Children less than five years of age should avoid contact with chicks. Children should be supervised when they are handling chicks to ensure that they do not place their hands, or objects that a chick has contacted, in their mouths. Chicks should not be kept in childcare centers.
- Immune-compromised people should avoid contact with chicks.
- Follow instructions from your veterinarian concerning proper diet and environment for your chick(s). Healthy chicks living in proper environments are less likely to shed Salmonella bacteria.
This information is not meant to discourage chick or poultry ownership. With a few exceptions (for example, infants or immune-compromised individuals), most people have a low risk of acquiring Salmonella from chicks. This risk, however, can be reduced even further by following simple precautions. Purchasers of chicks should be aware of the methods for reducing their risk of acquiring Salmonella bacteria from poultry.
For more information about the risk of Salmonella illness, please call Deschutes County Health Services at 322-7400.
Anna M. Johnson
Public Communications Coordinator
DESCHUTES COUNTY
(541) 330-4640 office
(541) 280-5263 cell
(541) 385-3202 fax
1300 NW Wall Street, Ste. 200
Bend, OR 97701
www.deschutes.org
www.deschutes.org/mostwanted/
Tuesday, January 20
Change
Happy Inauguration Day!
This morning as I drove my daughter to school, I searched the radio bands for a station that might be playing a feed of the swearing in of our nation's new President. Boo was curious about this and realized out loud, "Oh, Barack Obama turns into the President today!" I told her yes, and that the big ceremony would be happening right about the time I dropped her off at the school (a little before 9am PST). And then she asked,
"Why doesn't he turn into the new President on President's Day?"
I giggled a little (oops) but then told her that was a good question. I explained why we celebrate President's Day, and she seemed to get it.
When we pulled up to the school the playground was nearly empty - unusual since it was "line up time" and then I saw the teachers waving the kids inside. I hope that they were being hurried inside to watch the swearing in (of the Vice President) that was to start in a few moments.
As I pulled away from the school Aretha Franklin's voice, singing "My Country 'Tis of Thee," filled the airwaves and my breath started to catch in my chest. During the drive from Redmond to Bend I fought tears as I listened to Joe Biden take the oath of the Vice President, and the beautiful harmony composed by John Williams (with the violin part played by Itzhak Perlman, one of my favorite musicians). When I arrived at the office I stayed in my car for a few minutes to listen to the end of our new President's inaugural address.
And just in case the two older kids didn't get to see the event, everything was recording at home on the DVR.
How much change can we really expect? Too soon to tell. Many are nervous that change is not for the best. My heart is full of hope - for my kids, for my country, and for the world. I was happy to hear science and technology among the topics mentioned during the Inaugural address. There are many important ideas out there, and I hope that the citizens of my country - myself included - can shed their doubts and fear.
This morning as I drove my daughter to school, I searched the radio bands for a station that might be playing a feed of the swearing in of our nation's new President. Boo was curious about this and realized out loud, "Oh, Barack Obama turns into the President today!" I told her yes, and that the big ceremony would be happening right about the time I dropped her off at the school (a little before 9am PST). And then she asked,
"Why doesn't he turn into the new President on President's Day?"
I giggled a little (oops) but then told her that was a good question. I explained why we celebrate President's Day, and she seemed to get it.
When we pulled up to the school the playground was nearly empty - unusual since it was "line up time" and then I saw the teachers waving the kids inside. I hope that they were being hurried inside to watch the swearing in (of the Vice President) that was to start in a few moments.
As I pulled away from the school Aretha Franklin's voice, singing "My Country 'Tis of Thee," filled the airwaves and my breath started to catch in my chest. During the drive from Redmond to Bend I fought tears as I listened to Joe Biden take the oath of the Vice President, and the beautiful harmony composed by John Williams (with the violin part played by Itzhak Perlman, one of my favorite musicians). When I arrived at the office I stayed in my car for a few minutes to listen to the end of our new President's inaugural address.
And just in case the two older kids didn't get to see the event, everything was recording at home on the DVR.
How much change can we really expect? Too soon to tell. Many are nervous that change is not for the best. My heart is full of hope - for my kids, for my country, and for the world. I was happy to hear science and technology among the topics mentioned during the Inaugural address. There are many important ideas out there, and I hope that the citizens of my country - myself included - can shed their doubts and fear.
Monday, October 13
Day
Mrs. G over at Derfwad Manor asked her readers to share a photo documentary of a day in their life. Here's mine.
It's always a little too early for me. So I hit this button. Sometimes I repeat this four or five times. (Hint: on Mondays it's usually more.)
While I laugh at the kids for having to leave for school at a ridiculously early hour, I catch up on email messages and read up on important stuff. Unfortunately for me, soon it will be too cold for them to ride their bikes to school. Which means I will have to drive them. But for now, I stick with laughing at them.
Time to clean up and get ready for my day. I recommend the toothpaste with the little minty strips. Mmm... winter fresh!
Halfway to work I get a call from the school because someone is having problems with their braces. So I turn around and we make an emergency trip to the orthodontist's office.
Eventually I get to the office. It's time to get to work!
But first I need tea. And if it's a good day, then I'll go to lunch with the girls. Or in today's case, I'll just sit at my desk and eat whatever Chef Stouffer is serving up.
Finally it's time to head home. It's rush hour so I have to watch out for a**hole drivers. And I keep my fingers crossed that I won't have to wait for a train at the railroad crossing.
The dog and the kids are so thrilled to see me! They run off to do kid things without me. Or just stand around and make goofy faces.
The RHPB usually gets home later, and we have a drink together. Sometimes it's beer. Sometimes I have a martini. Every once in a while he stops at Sonic and gets a Cherry Limeade for me. And sometimes if it's a bad day then we drink... lots of beer.
Then I am expected delighted to make dinner. Or we order a pizza.
The sun goes down. The kids are sent upstairs and we follow to threaten them if they don't go to sleep tuck them into bed. RHPB and I mysteriously turn into couch potatoes.
I crawl in bed, and usually manage to read a few pages before I just can't stay awake another moment. G'night!
Thursday, October 2
Vote
I was just called out by Jack Leblond (@Web_Guy) to make sure I was registered to vote; Yes, Jack, I am. I registered to vote the day I turned 18, and have kept my registration current ever since. One think I have never done? Voted at a "polling place". Since I was an out-of-state student I registered to vote by mail. When I moved back to Oregon, the state started conducting all elections by mail. I have, however, hand-delivered my ballot to the County Clerk's office and picked up my "I Voted" sticker on Election Day. It is, after all, just across the street from my office.
Check out this great video, it’s not only entertaining - it’s informative too. Enjoy!
And since this is a meme, of course I am tagging some folks. This isn't about WHO you are voting for. This is just about voting, period. Are you registered to vote?
* Occidental Girl
* Ann Poff (@starrchhk)
* PolyGeek (@polyGeek)
* Collin (@cjgraphix)
* Carrie (@simz_girl) and Simeon (@simBateman)
Check out this great video, it’s not only entertaining - it’s informative too. Enjoy!
And since this is a meme, of course I am tagging some folks. This isn't about WHO you are voting for. This is just about voting, period. Are you registered to vote?
* Occidental Girl
* Ann Poff (@starrchhk)
* PolyGeek (@polyGeek)
* Collin (@cjgraphix)
* Carrie (@simz_girl) and Simeon (@simBateman)
Sunday, September 21
Thursday, July 3
Meant
I've meant to blog about several things lately, but I haven't. If I had found the time to post you might have enjoyed reading about...
...My trip to Ignite Portland 3. Kate and I had a fun time. Afterwards we went to dessert at Rimsky's with Ana's mommy and daddy. But hey, at least you can look at my photos from the event.
...Eating dinner at the new Flatbread Community Oven in the Old Mill District. While the gelato was worth going back for, the pizza was a little "meh!" Oh well...
...Boo's ballet recital. The one that lasted three hours, in a non-air conditioned auditorium. That also featured tap dancers. Which proves that I love Boo. A LOT!
...Hiking the McKenzie Trail to Tamolitch Pool. With Divot and a friend. To see a waterfall that happens once in a lifetime. It was worth the drive.
...Eating Chicken & Waffles in Downtown Bend. But they were a little too classy for my taste. I bet I know who can do better. (And I'll let you know as soon I hear whether they give it a twirl!)
...Going to a Bend Elks baseball game with Occidental Girl and her family. RHPB bought OC a sno-cone which quite possibly made him a new best friend, but might also have made her head spin around from the sugar rush. Oops!
...Our family trip to da beach. It was windy but still fun. We hiked, played in the sand, and found geocaches. Oh yeah, and I got older while we were there too.
...How sore I was after walking (at 6:30 in the morning) with Chubby Mommy and Speedy Kate.
Sorry folks, I meant to do better. Where the heck is this summer going, and would someone please hit the pause button?!
...My trip to Ignite Portland 3. Kate and I had a fun time. Afterwards we went to dessert at Rimsky's with Ana's mommy and daddy. But hey, at least you can look at my photos from the event.
...Eating dinner at the new Flatbread Community Oven in the Old Mill District. While the gelato was worth going back for, the pizza was a little "meh!" Oh well...
...Boo's ballet recital. The one that lasted three hours, in a non-air conditioned auditorium. That also featured tap dancers. Which proves that I love Boo. A LOT!
...Hiking the McKenzie Trail to Tamolitch Pool. With Divot and a friend. To see a waterfall that happens once in a lifetime. It was worth the drive.
...Eating Chicken & Waffles in Downtown Bend. But they were a little too classy for my taste. I bet I know who can do better. (And I'll let you know as soon I hear whether they give it a twirl!)
...Going to a Bend Elks baseball game with Occidental Girl and her family. RHPB bought OC a sno-cone which quite possibly made him a new best friend, but might also have made her head spin around from the sugar rush. Oops!
...Our family trip to da beach. It was windy but still fun. We hiked, played in the sand, and found geocaches. Oh yeah, and I got older while we were there too.
...How sore I was after walking (at 6:30 in the morning) with Chubby Mommy and Speedy Kate.
Sorry folks, I meant to do better. Where the heck is this summer going, and would someone please hit the pause button?!
Monday, June 9
Pop
When I was little my dad always wanted me to call him "pop". But I wouldn't do it - in my mind "pop" was something sweet and bubbly, or a goofy noise. He was always dad or daddy to me. Looking back he might have been a "pop" though, I just didn't realize it back then. Though he was often misunderstood he had sweet intentions. Around friends he was a charmer and had a bubbly personality. And was he ever proud of the goofy noises he could make!
Dad would have been 67 today. Scott and I went back to El Cap for our (now annual) birthday drinks, and raised our glasses "to Al!"
I miss you and love you every day. Happy Birthday, Pop.
Dad would have been 67 today. Scott and I went back to El Cap for our (now annual) birthday drinks, and raised our glasses "to Al!"
I miss you and love you every day. Happy Birthday, Pop.
Saturday, April 12
Pepe's
We went to Pepe's for dinner tonight. When I expressed my sadness that they were closing to Pepe's daughter (the owner) tonight, her jaw dropped.
Pepe's in Bend is not closing. At least, not yet. She said they have considered a change, but nothing is a "done deal". We had a wonderful dinner there tonight - great food and friendly service as always.
I know not all Bendites feel the same way about Pepe's, but many of you do. Please show your support to this great family restaurant, and help convince them that Bend wants them to stay!
Pepe's in Bend is not closing. At least, not yet. She said they have considered a change, but nothing is a "done deal". We had a wonderful dinner there tonight - great food and friendly service as always.
I know not all Bendites feel the same way about Pepe's, but many of you do. Please show your support to this great family restaurant, and help convince them that Bend wants them to stay!
Monday, March 31
Fixated
I am obsessed. Together with Julie and Sarah, I am consumed with the gluttonous task of finding the best cupcake in Bend.
Last week it was Nancy P's. Today for lunch it was Allyson's, in Bend's Old Mill District. Convenient that it's right down the hill from my office, isn't it? We needed a good place to scheme about our plans to heat up the tech landscape in Bend.
As always, I kept up the pretense that this was not just about the cupcakes. I needed "real" food too. One of the best parts about a visit to Allyson's is they put out samples of a variety of their treats. I tried three kinds of cheese, and a bite of several types of cheesecake (two of them chocolate) before I even ordered my lunch! That's one way to cure a case of the Monday's! And when you are hungry, it's that much easier to walk past all the pretty kitchen toys without getting distracted.
While not as sinfully delightful as my bacon sandwich from last week, the Black Bean soup at Allyson's is very good. There was a fair amount of sausage and just a bit of spice. The mug was just the right amount and took the chill out of my bones. (Even though it was a beautiful sunny day it was still quite cold out!) Best of all, I had plenty of room for dessert!
Perusing the case of baked goods, I mulled over my decision. Since I had already tasted a bite of each type of the individual cheesecakes, the door was wide open for cupcakes once again. But did I want a big one or a little one? Lemon or Red Velvet? Really, I don't quite understand the whole fascination with Red Velvet cake. So of course I ordered Lemon. And why get a small cupcake when you can get a big one? If I got a small one there wouldn't be any left to share!
I did try a bite of Julie's Red Velvet cupcake, and it was good. The frosting was creamy and rich - the kind that you could just spoon up straight from the bowl. It makes me get fatter just thinking about it.
As soon as I pulled the paper away from my Lemon cupcake I was awash in the smell. Ooohh, I love the smell of lemons! But the cupcake itself was very cold and a little on the dry side. Almost like it had been baked the night (or week) before, and then frozen. It tasted perfect, but the texture and temperature left me, well... cold.
But our adventure wasn't quite over. I had heard that Allyson's is planning to offer cooking courses, so I was anxious to check out their demo kitchen. After checking with the staff we poked around upstairs and then nosed around their wine "cellar".
Our excitement must have been showing (or maybe it was the camera's flash?) because the head honcho guy came over to talk to us. We were excited to hear that classes will be starting soon. They are planning to offer several formats: a multi-week class ("Confident Cooking"), demonstrations, and hands-on workshops. Topics include knife skills 101, Moroccan cuisine, and sushi. They are thinking about offering Winemakers dinners some time in the future. And they do themed wine tastings every Friday, 6-8pm (this week's theme is "The Bounty of Barbera").
Oh, and did I mention that Allyson's is also a kitchen store?! It's well-stocked with an assortment of some of the most drool-worthy appliances, cookware, gadgets and tools I have seen in a long time. I am a big fan of Allyson's store in Ashland and usually make a point to visit when we visit that town for the Shakespeare Festival. I am apprehensive (about the potential impact on my wallet) but excited about having them so close to home!
Last week it was Nancy P's. Today for lunch it was Allyson's, in Bend's Old Mill District. Convenient that it's right down the hill from my office, isn't it? We needed a good place to scheme about our plans to heat up the tech landscape in Bend.
As always, I kept up the pretense that this was not just about the cupcakes. I needed "real" food too. One of the best parts about a visit to Allyson's is they put out samples of a variety of their treats. I tried three kinds of cheese, and a bite of several types of cheesecake (two of them chocolate) before I even ordered my lunch! That's one way to cure a case of the Monday's! And when you are hungry, it's that much easier to walk past all the pretty kitchen toys without getting distracted. While not as sinfully delightful as my bacon sandwich from last week, the Black Bean soup at Allyson's is very good. There was a fair amount of sausage and just a bit of spice. The mug was just the right amount and took the chill out of my bones. (Even though it was a beautiful sunny day it was still quite cold out!) Best of all, I had plenty of room for dessert!
Perusing the case of baked goods, I mulled over my decision. Since I had already tasted a bite of each type of the individual cheesecakes, the door was wide open for cupcakes once again. But did I want a big one or a little one? Lemon or Red Velvet? Really, I don't quite understand the whole fascination with Red Velvet cake. So of course I ordered Lemon. And why get a small cupcake when you can get a big one? If I got a small one there wouldn't be any left to share!
I did try a bite of Julie's Red Velvet cupcake, and it was good. The frosting was creamy and rich - the kind that you could just spoon up straight from the bowl. It makes me get fatter just thinking about it.
As soon as I pulled the paper away from my Lemon cupcake I was awash in the smell. Ooohh, I love the smell of lemons! But the cupcake itself was very cold and a little on the dry side. Almost like it had been baked the night (or week) before, and then frozen. It tasted perfect, but the texture and temperature left me, well... cold.
But our adventure wasn't quite over. I had heard that Allyson's is planning to offer cooking courses, so I was anxious to check out their demo kitchen. After checking with the staff we poked around upstairs and then nosed around their wine "cellar".
Our excitement must have been showing (or maybe it was the camera's flash?) because the head honcho guy came over to talk to us. We were excited to hear that classes will be starting soon. They are planning to offer several formats: a multi-week class ("Confident Cooking"), demonstrations, and hands-on workshops. Topics include knife skills 101, Moroccan cuisine, and sushi. They are thinking about offering Winemakers dinners some time in the future. And they do themed wine tastings every Friday, 6-8pm (this week's theme is "The Bounty of Barbera").
Oh, and did I mention that Allyson's is also a kitchen store?! It's well-stocked with an assortment of some of the most drool-worthy appliances, cookware, gadgets and tools I have seen in a long time. I am a big fan of Allyson's store in Ashland and usually make a point to visit when we visit that town for the Shakespeare Festival. I am apprehensive (about the potential impact on my wallet) but excited about having them so close to home!
Friday, March 28
Nothing
Today, I am doing nothing.
I could have gone to work, but why? I already have the day off, so that I could drive to a quilter's retreat at Camp Cascade. I was finally going to finish Q.P.'s quilt and get some work done on other projects. But apparently Mother Nature doesn't agree with my quilting habit, since it's dumping so much snow on the pass that chains are required and they are discouraging anyone from traveling that doesn't have to.
So... instead of heading off to the office I am "doing nothing." And it feels pretty good. Actually, it's a lot of work to do nothing. Since the kids were planning for me to be gone I let them take over the living room as planned (including the "good" TV with the DVR and Wii) and stayed in bed late to read a book. That's right, I had some quiet time to read for fun. Bliss!
A little later Shannon mentioned that they were going to head over and check out the new Trader Joe's. Ordinarily I wouldn't go to an eagerly anticipated store on opening day but heck, why not? Q.P. decided to come with me, while Stinky stayed home to enjoy some "alone time" with the Wii. Yes, it was crowded. But we picked up some good stuff (some needed, and some just because) and for the most part everyone at the store was friendly and happy. Say whatever you will about Trader Joe's... but you have to admit that their price point on a lot of "staples" and produce can't be beat elsewhere in town. And I love the little mini gingersnaps and dark-chocolate-dipped "Joe Joe's". We used to stock up on those when visiting friends in Portland or Scott's daughter in Eugene... it might be a little dangerous now that I can just drive to the north end of town for them!
Since we were in that neck of the woods anyways, we went to Target next. I knew that at least one child was in desperate need of socks, and we still owed Burger an iTunes card for babysitting earlier this month. There is some mystical force at work inside Target, and I can never get out without buying lots of extra stuff. But it's usually stuff that is so marked down that I can't resist. There was still a lot of Easter merchandise, and all of it was marked down 75%. Can you say "score"? One of the best things about post-holiday clearance is the stuff that is only marginally holiday related. Like the sports-themed baskets, socks, and dishes that we picked up in addition to jelly beans and Reese's peanut butter eggs.
After all that shopping (and looking at candy) we were hungry. I love crepes and have been wanting to try Batter & Beans in downtown Bend. Q.P. was intrigued by the idea of crepes and agreed that was the place we should go for some lunch. We took the owner's suggestion to order one "savory" crepe to share... so that we would have room for a sweet crepe for dessert. I let Q.P. pick the fillings for both. We had one with ham and cheddar (and added tomatoes on my half) then one with bananas and caramel. (After which I ran home for some migraine meds, since bananas are a MAJOR trigger. But it was just too good to resist!) Yummmm... we will definitely be back. I want to try a crepe filled with spinach, mushrooms, bacon, and cream cheese. The one thing they are missing from the "sweet" menu is cinnamon apples. I think a sweet crepe with cinnamon apples and caramel would be perfection!!
And now... back to my not-regularly-scheduled day of doing nothing. I highly recommend it!
I could have gone to work, but why? I already have the day off, so that I could drive to a quilter's retreat at Camp Cascade. I was finally going to finish Q.P.'s quilt and get some work done on other projects. But apparently Mother Nature doesn't agree with my quilting habit, since it's dumping so much snow on the pass that chains are required and they are discouraging anyone from traveling that doesn't have to.
So... instead of heading off to the office I am "doing nothing." And it feels pretty good. Actually, it's a lot of work to do nothing. Since the kids were planning for me to be gone I let them take over the living room as planned (including the "good" TV with the DVR and Wii) and stayed in bed late to read a book. That's right, I had some quiet time to read for fun. Bliss!
A little later Shannon mentioned that they were going to head over and check out the new Trader Joe's. Ordinarily I wouldn't go to an eagerly anticipated store on opening day but heck, why not? Q.P. decided to come with me, while Stinky stayed home to enjoy some "alone time" with the Wii. Yes, it was crowded. But we picked up some good stuff (some needed, and some just because) and for the most part everyone at the store was friendly and happy. Say whatever you will about Trader Joe's... but you have to admit that their price point on a lot of "staples" and produce can't be beat elsewhere in town. And I love the little mini gingersnaps and dark-chocolate-dipped "Joe Joe's". We used to stock up on those when visiting friends in Portland or Scott's daughter in Eugene... it might be a little dangerous now that I can just drive to the north end of town for them!
Since we were in that neck of the woods anyways, we went to Target next. I knew that at least one child was in desperate need of socks, and we still owed Burger an iTunes card for babysitting earlier this month. There is some mystical force at work inside Target, and I can never get out without buying lots of extra stuff. But it's usually stuff that is so marked down that I can't resist. There was still a lot of Easter merchandise, and all of it was marked down 75%. Can you say "score"? One of the best things about post-holiday clearance is the stuff that is only marginally holiday related. Like the sports-themed baskets, socks, and dishes that we picked up in addition to jelly beans and Reese's peanut butter eggs.
After all that shopping (and looking at candy) we were hungry. I love crepes and have been wanting to try Batter & Beans in downtown Bend. Q.P. was intrigued by the idea of crepes and agreed that was the place we should go for some lunch. We took the owner's suggestion to order one "savory" crepe to share... so that we would have room for a sweet crepe for dessert. I let Q.P. pick the fillings for both. We had one with ham and cheddar (and added tomatoes on my half) then one with bananas and caramel. (After which I ran home for some migraine meds, since bananas are a MAJOR trigger. But it was just too good to resist!) Yummmm... we will definitely be back. I want to try a crepe filled with spinach, mushrooms, bacon, and cream cheese. The one thing they are missing from the "sweet" menu is cinnamon apples. I think a sweet crepe with cinnamon apples and caramel would be perfection!!
And now... back to my not-regularly-scheduled day of doing nothing. I highly recommend it!
Wednesday, March 26
Cupcake
Hey there, how you doin'? Aren't you just the prettiest little cupcake? Why yes, I think you are!
I think I just found food Nirvana, in the form of late lunch and coffee at Nancy P's. First of all, the cupcakes. It's always better to start off with dessert, just to make sure you don't fill up with other food first! Now, which kind would you like? They have several varieties to choose from including carrot, red velvet, and assorted "junior" cupcakes. And then there is the goodness that is the Chocolate Puddle. It's like a oozy, gooey brownie that isn't baked quite through, with chocolate fudge filling. The Lego Lady got one and lorded it over us, oh man did it look good.
But oh my goodness, I knew I had found my new home away from home when I saw the Grilled Bacon, Tomato and Cheese sandwiches. And in case you were wondering, yes it was just as good as it sounds. Scratch that, it was even better than it sounds. If you like bacon and cheese, and have a few cholesterol points to spare (which I don't) I highly recommend it!
Don't forget the Strictly Organic coffee! I wonder if I can buy stock in Nancy P's? Or if they have a frequent buyer and addiction program? Now please excuse me while I sleep off my lovely lunch. Mmmm... happy tummy makes a happy Jen!
I think I just found food Nirvana, in the form of late lunch and coffee at Nancy P's. First of all, the cupcakes. It's always better to start off with dessert, just to make sure you don't fill up with other food first! Now, which kind would you like? They have several varieties to choose from including carrot, red velvet, and assorted "junior" cupcakes. And then there is the goodness that is the Chocolate Puddle. It's like a oozy, gooey brownie that isn't baked quite through, with chocolate fudge filling. The Lego Lady got one and lorded it over us, oh man did it look good.
But oh my goodness, I knew I had found my new home away from home when I saw the Grilled Bacon, Tomato and Cheese sandwiches. And in case you were wondering, yes it was just as good as it sounds. Scratch that, it was even better than it sounds. If you like bacon and cheese, and have a few cholesterol points to spare (which I don't) I highly recommend it!
Don't forget the Strictly Organic coffee! I wonder if I can buy stock in Nancy P's? Or if they have a frequent buyer and addiction program? Now please excuse me while I sleep off my lovely lunch. Mmmm... happy tummy makes a happy Jen!
Thursday, March 20
Me
I'll bet you've had one of those weeks, too. Things don't necessarily go badly, just not as planned, and frequently enough that you wonder if there's something in the air. At work, this week has been just busy enough that I have things to do, but not busy enough that it went by as quickly as I would like. At home, it seems like something came up every night so far, and there just hasn't been a chance to relax as much as I would like.
And it felt like no matter what else was going on there was always someone who "needed" me. Boo needed me to take her to gymnastics, and then stay to watch. Stinky and Q.P. needed me to watch their orchestra concert. Stinky needed me to help him with a little business he is trying to start (helping out the neighbors) to raise money for the evil genius camp he wants to attend this summer. Scott needed me to get him a beer. You get the picture. It's nice to be needed and all, but enough already!
So tonight I decided to take some "me" time. And what did I do? I got my hair cut. Nothing dramatic, just a couple of inches off the bottom to keep it healthy. My normal hair gal has been on hiatus for a while, and it was definitely needed. Unfortunately it didn't go quite as I planned. (The experience, not the cut.) Probably partly because I didn't plan it at all, I just decided it was time. I really enjoy the whole "getting the hair done" experience from the wash to the blow dry. But since I didn't plan, I went to a walk-in place. And while she did exactly what I wanted (and did it well) the whole thing took maybe about 15 minutes. Which was not nearly long enough.
Ah well, par for the course I guess. At least I have tomorrow off and we have some fun weekend plans. Things are definitely looking up, and I am on my way out of this rut!
And it felt like no matter what else was going on there was always someone who "needed" me. Boo needed me to take her to gymnastics, and then stay to watch. Stinky and Q.P. needed me to watch their orchestra concert. Stinky needed me to help him with a little business he is trying to start (helping out the neighbors) to raise money for the evil genius camp he wants to attend this summer. Scott needed me to get him a beer. You get the picture. It's nice to be needed and all, but enough already!
So tonight I decided to take some "me" time. And what did I do? I got my hair cut. Nothing dramatic, just a couple of inches off the bottom to keep it healthy. My normal hair gal has been on hiatus for a while, and it was definitely needed. Unfortunately it didn't go quite as I planned. (The experience, not the cut.) Probably partly because I didn't plan it at all, I just decided it was time. I really enjoy the whole "getting the hair done" experience from the wash to the blow dry. But since I didn't plan, I went to a walk-in place. And while she did exactly what I wanted (and did it well) the whole thing took maybe about 15 minutes. Which was not nearly long enough.
Ah well, par for the course I guess. At least I have tomorrow off and we have some fun weekend plans. Things are definitely looking up, and I am on my way out of this rut!
Thursday, February 14
ILY
Inspired by Keely (who was inspired by Melissa)... but since we aren't married I am leaving the wedding-related questions blank (just in case someone else wants to play). And no, it's not in the plans. :)
Updated May 4, 2008: Plans changed. We got engaged on Leap Day and decided to tie the knot this weekend. See updates accordingly...
1. Where/how did you meet?
We met at a mutual friends' divorce party. I got there late, and things were already in full swing. A group was playing quarters, so I joined in. Scott is really good at that game. I'm not, so I "won"!
2. How long have you known each other?
Four years.
3. How long after you met did you start dating?
About a month.
4. How long did you date before you were engaged?
Updated May 4, 2008: About four and a half years.
5. How long was your engagement?
Updated May 4, 2008: About six weeks.
6. How long have you been married?
Updated May 4, 2008: Almost 24 hours. :)
7. What is your anniversary?
I consider our "committed as a couple" anniversary to be July 4. That's when we introduced our kids to each other. That's about as committed as you can get!
Updated May 4, 2008: May 3, 2008
8. How many people came to your wedding reception?
Updated May 4, 2008: Twenty, including us. :)
9. What kind of cake did you serve?
Updated May 4, 2008: Strawberry shortcake
10. Where was your wedding?
Updated May 4, 2008: Atelier 6000 in Bend, OR.
11. What did you serve for the meal?
Updated May 4, 2008: Country Style Ribs, Lemon Chicken Kebabs (with zucchini and mushrooms), salad, rolls, Cheesy Potato Casserole, and Asparagus Gruyere Tart.
12. How many people were in your bridal party?
Updated May 4, 2008: The kids each had a "job" but no formal bridal party.
13. Are you still friends with them all?
Updated May 4, 2008: Sure!
14. Did your spouse cry during the ceremony?
Updated May 4, 2008: Almost!
15. Most special moment of your wedding day?
Updated May 4, 2008: When the official read our vows, and everyone burst out laughing.
16. Any funny moments?
Updated May 4, 2008: Stinky laughed so hard that he fell off his stool. Boo's job was to hold my bouquet when Scott and I said our vows, and she got embarrassed. Our friends bebe balanced a rubber ducky on her head.
17. Any big disasters?
Updated May 4, 2008: Nope!
18. Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Updated May 4, 2008: Not yet, still deciding where to go and waiting till the kiddos are out of school for the summer.
19. How long were you gone?
Updated May 4, 2008: Not long enough! :)
20. If you were to do your wedding over, what would you change?
Updated May 4, 2008: That I let Scott's 22 year-old daughter buy me an AMF at my bachelorette party. G'night, Jen!
21. What side of the bed do you sleep on?
The right side. We got ourselves a new (bigger) bed for Christmas, so now we finally have "sides"!
22. What size is your bed?
King size... yeah!
23. Greatest strength as a couple?
Ummm... our enduring devotion to one another? LOL... Actually, we are both really hard working, honest people. I know that's not very exciting, but it's important.
24. Greatest challenge as a couple?
We are the second- and third-most stubborn people I know. (Stinky being the most stubborn.)
25. Who literally pays the bills?
Me.
26. What is your song?
Faith, by Shawn Mullins
27. What did you dance your first dance to?
Scott doesn't dance.
Updated May 4, 2008: Still no dance. :)
28. Describe your wedding dress.
Updated May 4, 2008: An off-white sundress with a brown floral print.
29. What kind of flowers did you have at your wedding?
Updated May 4, 2008: Just my bouquet. I bought flowers at Costco that morning. My sister made me a beautiful hand-tied bouquet from them. There were yellow lilies, purple mums, white alstromeria, eucalyptus, and even a few tulips.
30. Are your wedding bands engraved?
Updated May 4, 2008: We haven't picked them out yet.
And Missy said it better than I could, so here ya go...
Updated May 4, 2008: Plans changed. We got engaged on Leap Day and decided to tie the knot this weekend. See updates accordingly...
1. Where/how did you meet?
We met at a mutual friends' divorce party. I got there late, and things were already in full swing. A group was playing quarters, so I joined in. Scott is really good at that game. I'm not, so I "won"!
2. How long have you known each other?
Four years.
3. How long after you met did you start dating?
About a month.
4. How long did you date before you were engaged?
Updated May 4, 2008: About four and a half years.
5. How long was your engagement?
Updated May 4, 2008: About six weeks.
6. How long have you been married?
Updated May 4, 2008: Almost 24 hours. :)
7. What is your anniversary?
I consider our "committed as a couple" anniversary to be July 4. That's when we introduced our kids to each other. That's about as committed as you can get!
Updated May 4, 2008: May 3, 2008
8. How many people came to your wedding reception?
Updated May 4, 2008: Twenty, including us. :)
9. What kind of cake did you serve?
Updated May 4, 2008: Strawberry shortcake
10. Where was your wedding?
Updated May 4, 2008: Atelier 6000 in Bend, OR.
11. What did you serve for the meal?
Updated May 4, 2008: Country Style Ribs, Lemon Chicken Kebabs (with zucchini and mushrooms), salad, rolls, Cheesy Potato Casserole, and Asparagus Gruyere Tart.
12. How many people were in your bridal party?
Updated May 4, 2008: The kids each had a "job" but no formal bridal party.
13. Are you still friends with them all?
Updated May 4, 2008: Sure!
14. Did your spouse cry during the ceremony?
Updated May 4, 2008: Almost!
15. Most special moment of your wedding day?
Updated May 4, 2008: When the official read our vows, and everyone burst out laughing.
16. Any funny moments?
Updated May 4, 2008: Stinky laughed so hard that he fell off his stool. Boo's job was to hold my bouquet when Scott and I said our vows, and she got embarrassed. Our friends bebe balanced a rubber ducky on her head.
17. Any big disasters?
Updated May 4, 2008: Nope!
18. Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Updated May 4, 2008: Not yet, still deciding where to go and waiting till the kiddos are out of school for the summer.
19. How long were you gone?
Updated May 4, 2008: Not long enough! :)
20. If you were to do your wedding over, what would you change?
Updated May 4, 2008: That I let Scott's 22 year-old daughter buy me an AMF at my bachelorette party. G'night, Jen!
21. What side of the bed do you sleep on?
The right side. We got ourselves a new (bigger) bed for Christmas, so now we finally have "sides"!
22. What size is your bed?
King size... yeah!
23. Greatest strength as a couple?
Ummm... our enduring devotion to one another? LOL... Actually, we are both really hard working, honest people. I know that's not very exciting, but it's important.
24. Greatest challenge as a couple?
We are the second- and third-most stubborn people I know. (Stinky being the most stubborn.)
25. Who literally pays the bills?
Me.
26. What is your song?
Faith, by Shawn Mullins
27. What did you dance your first dance to?
Scott doesn't dance.
Updated May 4, 2008: Still no dance. :)
28. Describe your wedding dress.
Updated May 4, 2008: An off-white sundress with a brown floral print.
29. What kind of flowers did you have at your wedding?
Updated May 4, 2008: Just my bouquet. I bought flowers at Costco that morning. My sister made me a beautiful hand-tied bouquet from them. There were yellow lilies, purple mums, white alstromeria, eucalyptus, and even a few tulips.
30. Are your wedding bands engraved?
Updated May 4, 2008: We haven't picked them out yet.
And Missy said it better than I could, so here ya go...
It's all in the spirit of ADTILY or Another Day That I Love You Day. Because honestly, shouldn't you show that special someone that you love them everyday?
Tuesday, October 2
Food
One of my favorite places from our trip to Mexico was the Mercado in Manzanillo. One side was for produce (and other "sanitary" foods) and the other was for meat. I had to move through the meat side quickly because the smell was so strong - but not without purchasing some wonderful sausages and fish. I purchased fresh rolls from a panaderia, and eggs from another stand. On the produce side I felt like Alice in Wonderland - so many wonderful options, how could I choose? I remember selecting potatoes, limes, strawberries, melon, and vegies in pidgin Spanish. Two large bags and about $3 later... I think the person running the stand thought I was nuts and buying too much. (We really did eat it all - I fixed our breakfast and lunch every day and we ate dinner out.)
And that's when I realized something. When entering the market we had passed a young family with a child and a baby. They asked for money and Scott gave them some pesos. The girl looked at the money and almost cried, saying "gracias, muchas gracias!" I realized after making our purchases at the Mercado that Scott had probably given her enough money to feed her family for a week - maybe two.
With that in mind, take a look at What the world eats, a photo essay on the Time website. You may be surprised how much - and how little - families around the world consume in a week, and the relative costs.
The most interesting thing to me? How many fruits and vegetables - and even just "whole" foods in general - were on each table. All the people who wonder why "kids today" are so fat needs only to take a look at these pictures. It's amazing how many pre-packaged foods are on many of the tables from around the world.
Don't get me wrong - we are not short on pre-packaged foods in our household either. But it really makes me reflect on why we rely on so many foods in cardboard boxes and plastic bags. Is a carrot really better when it's peeled, shaved down, and turned into a "baby" carrot? I just don't understand why people buy those things. Even for convenience's sake... you can buy a bag of carrot sticks for maybe a third of the price of the baby carrots. Maybe someone will explain that to me some day...
Where does your food come from? Yes, a lot of mine comes from the supermarket too. But last year we bought half a beef from a local farmer, and it was extremely good. We plan to do this again. I keep thinking about joining a co-op during the summer and getting the weekly produce boxes, but I like to plan my meals and shop accordingly. I used to shop at Top Banana in Redmond when I lived there - but there is a new produce shop in Bend (on 2nd Street) that I really need to check out now that they are open.
If I could efficiently shop for and purchase my other grocery needs from similar sources I probably would. Any suggestions?
And that's when I realized something. When entering the market we had passed a young family with a child and a baby. They asked for money and Scott gave them some pesos. The girl looked at the money and almost cried, saying "gracias, muchas gracias!" I realized after making our purchases at the Mercado that Scott had probably given her enough money to feed her family for a week - maybe two.
With that in mind, take a look at What the world eats, a photo essay on the Time website. You may be surprised how much - and how little - families around the world consume in a week, and the relative costs.
The most interesting thing to me? How many fruits and vegetables - and even just "whole" foods in general - were on each table. All the people who wonder why "kids today" are so fat needs only to take a look at these pictures. It's amazing how many pre-packaged foods are on many of the tables from around the world.
Don't get me wrong - we are not short on pre-packaged foods in our household either. But it really makes me reflect on why we rely on so many foods in cardboard boxes and plastic bags. Is a carrot really better when it's peeled, shaved down, and turned into a "baby" carrot? I just don't understand why people buy those things. Even for convenience's sake... you can buy a bag of carrot sticks for maybe a third of the price of the baby carrots. Maybe someone will explain that to me some day...
Where does your food come from? Yes, a lot of mine comes from the supermarket too. But last year we bought half a beef from a local farmer, and it was extremely good. We plan to do this again. I keep thinking about joining a co-op during the summer and getting the weekly produce boxes, but I like to plan my meals and shop accordingly. I used to shop at Top Banana in Redmond when I lived there - but there is a new produce shop in Bend (on 2nd Street) that I really need to check out now that they are open.
If I could efficiently shop for and purchase my other grocery needs from similar sources I probably would. Any suggestions?
Friday, September 28
Lucky
This post inspires me to say...
Thank you, Scott!!
I tend to be the keeper of the schedule at home. I try to keep track of all the kids events - and there are many. Between school sports, birthday parties, conferences, and everything else it seems like we are always on the run. But somehow the homework still gets done, violins are practiced, the kids get their showers, and generally everyone gets to bed "on time".
And then there are the rest of the evenings - the ones when I am not home for one reason or another. I try to limit my after work commitments, but not to the point where I never, ever get out. Those are the nights that I can come home to... just about anything.
This week in our crazy kid-schedule - we only have Stinky at home. Last night, when I arrived home from the COWPU meeting I was greeted with...
QUIET
Scott texted me when Stinky got home from his XCountry meet in Sunriver (at about 6:30pm). When I walked through the door at 8pm:
I am such a lucky girl!
Thank you, Scott!!
I tend to be the keeper of the schedule at home. I try to keep track of all the kids events - and there are many. Between school sports, birthday parties, conferences, and everything else it seems like we are always on the run. But somehow the homework still gets done, violins are practiced, the kids get their showers, and generally everyone gets to bed "on time".
And then there are the rest of the evenings - the ones when I am not home for one reason or another. I try to limit my after work commitments, but not to the point where I never, ever get out. Those are the nights that I can come home to... just about anything.
This week in our crazy kid-schedule - we only have Stinky at home. Last night, when I arrived home from the COWPU meeting I was greeted with...
QUIET
Scott texted me when Stinky got home from his XCountry meet in Sunriver (at about 6:30pm). When I walked through the door at 8pm:
- Stinky was finished with his homework (except for reading - but that's part of the bedtime routine)
- Stinky had eaten dinner (and it wasn't cereal - he ate some leftover ribs and vegies from the other night)
- Stinky had taken a shower and was dressed in PJ's
- The house was relatively picked up - daily mail, homework, and clutter were put away.
I am such a lucky girl!
Friday, September 14
List
Girls out there on the Interweb, all y'all have a "list", right? You know the one I am talking about. The one your significant other knows all too well.
Shawn Mullins is on mine.
Picture me and Scott. From the second row, center - with no one between us and the stage until the end of the show when the "crashers" appeared. (EM, my friend Laramie was in the third row. With her hubby. Dori called me this morning offering the second row. Could I say "no"? After all, he's on my "list". I still owe you a beer! Or two... or three!) It felt like it was a concert for Scott and me alone, listening to music from someone who sang every word from. the. heart.
Blue
Beautiful Wreck
House of the Rising Sun
...and so much more.
There was one guy on the stage with an acoustic guitar. But you coulda fooled me... he sounded soo amazing there should have been more. He is that good.
And it was good to see friends there too... Laramie & John, Adrienne & Tyler, Tom, Bonnie... I hope everyone loved the music as much as we did.
Shawn Mullins... storyteller and poet. Scott had almost as much fun as me. When he comes back to town, I will find a way to be there. (Hey Shawn, we have a great guest room and even Scott says you are welcome any time!!!) Maybe I am not his most well known stalker in Bend... but total respect for his music, and I am a big fan.
Shawn Mullins is on mine.
Picture me and Scott. From the second row, center - with no one between us and the stage until the end of the show when the "crashers" appeared. (EM, my friend Laramie was in the third row. With her hubby. Dori called me this morning offering the second row. Could I say "no"? After all, he's on my "list". I still owe you a beer! Or two... or three!) It felt like it was a concert for Scott and me alone, listening to music from someone who sang every word from. the. heart.
Blue
Beautiful Wreck
House of the Rising Sun
...and so much more.
There was one guy on the stage with an acoustic guitar. But you coulda fooled me... he sounded soo amazing there should have been more. He is that good.
And it was good to see friends there too... Laramie & John, Adrienne & Tyler, Tom, Bonnie... I hope everyone loved the music as much as we did.
Shawn Mullins... storyteller and poet. Scott had almost as much fun as me. When he comes back to town, I will find a way to be there. (Hey Shawn, we have a great guest room and even Scott says you are welcome any time!!!) Maybe I am not his most well known stalker in Bend... but total respect for his music, and I am a big fan.
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