For the first time in my life, I was actually prescribed (and took) anti-anxiety meds. That was about a month ago. I'm not taking them now. But at the time, I really needed them. Thank goodness for prescription drugs.
At the time, I think all the stress had just been mounting, and I had been suppressing it, trying to just get past it. First we had to adjust to Kaelen being with us. And don't get me wrong - she's a joy and we love her. But just adjusting to having a 7 year old, AND still trying to work from home, was a challenge.
I'm going to interject here with all the things that Mickey and I so proudly accomplished for Kaelen while she was here:
1) We got her into gymnastics; and while she is no Mary Lou Retton, it did do a lot towards building her confidence. She had never been in an extra-curricular activity before then. I really hope that James and Tina continue to put her into an activity when she gets "home".
2) She graduated second grade in the Honor Roll. One semester she even received the Principal's Award.
3) She learned how to tell time and how to count money.
4) She learned how to swim.
5) She got to be a kid without being a surrogate Mommy/babysitter.
Back to the issue(s) of my anxiety. It wasn't so much Kaelen, per se, that caused me the anxiety, but rather the fear of what was going to happen to her when we inevitably gave her back. It was feeling her pain over the fact that her Mom and sister only came to visit her ONE TIME during the six months she was with her, and knowing that our unconditional love was not enough to make up for this.
Then there was the issue with Tina and Adrianna. I think when she attempted to dump Adrianna AND Blue off with my indigent and crazy ass parents, it really pushed me over the edge. I will never be able to grasp how a Mother would think this was acceptable, or how a Mother could have such a strong urge to "fire sale" her children and pets, with no regard with how this would affect said children and pets. Or for that matter, WHY. WHY was this even an option for her?
And then there was Tina announcing to James, while he was deployed, ridding the world of Terrorism, that she wanted to Divorce him. That act sealed the deal for them moving here - which was the original goal and reason for us keeping Kaelen in the first place.
I was treading water (so to speak) at that point. Then we got the rare phone call from James, telling us to watch the news, and when we did, learned that Osama bin Laden had been killed. I was so very proud of him, and was so glad that he would be coming home soon.
But he didn't come home soon. After that, he was stuck there. The fucking Pakis wouldn't let him and his group go home. So I watched on the news as rioting took place, and terrorist bombings, and threats against Americans, in retaliation for the murder of their hero bin Laden. I was worried shitless. And that's when I stopped functioning and went on auto pilot.
I went to the doctor and told them I was under stress and they prescribed me some really strong meds that helped me to get over the hump. In reality, the numb feeling was still disorienting and probably lowered my IQ just a tad. But it was better than hyperventilating and having panick attacks.
Yesterday James arrived. Kaelen is in the next room following "AA" around, kissing her and being the Little Mother to her that she was before we "rescued" her.
They're going back to North Carolina next week. And while I am especially sad that Kaelen is leaving (we've grown very attached to her), it will be nice to have some alone time with my husband again.
Whatever happens to James, Tina, Kaelen and Adrianna (and Blue), will be entirely up to them now. But we (Mickey and I), will always be a soft place for them to land, if need be. I guess that is what it is supposed to be like, once your kids grow up and have kids of their own.
Life goes on. Only right now, without medication.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Getting "Old"
I keep waiting to feel old but I think I've under-estimated what "old" feels like.
I have yet to have an urge to cut my hair off short, perm it and color it blue. I have a few grays but nothing to get bent out of shape over. Oddly enough, most of my hair is darker than it's ever been - a nuisance when trying to maintain "natural blonde."
I have a few aches and pains but if I'm honest with myself, I've had a few aches and pains my entire life, starting with gymnastics at age 6. My worst pain is in my neck and it was from falling on it too many times as a very young child. Other than that, my hips sometimes hurt if I run really far distances. I also get shin splints and stress fractures in my feet. But really, I can run a couple miles every single day and be fine. It's those really long distance runs that hurt. And if I remember correctly, I hurt every day of my high school tenure due to running too much. Pain from running, in my opinion, is not limited to 40+ year olds. It's just par for the course. So as a result, I keep my running to a mile or two a day and I am fine as frog's hair.
My vision is shitty. It used to just be distance. My distance vision is now something like 20/300. I have to wear glasses or contacts to drive. The issue I'm having now is that, when I wear contacts, my vision is OVER-corrected and I can't see close up. This poses a problem when, for instance, I want to wear contacts AND read a dinner menu. My solution is to wear only one contact and to read close up with the uncorrected eye, and see far with the corrected eye. I refuse to wear reading glasses. At least not yet.
I'm noticing more and more "hyperpigmentation" spots on my skin. Or for a much uglier word, "AGE SPOTS." Yes, that's right. I have age spots. And despite what those expensive spas tell you, there really is nothing that makes them go away. As soon as you have spent $3,000 getting a spot lasered, another freckle party sprouts up and then what? I'm noticing them all over my body and not in places where the sun hits. So all that lecturing about staying out of the sun is just a bunch of hooey. Fact is, if you were a kid with really cute freckles on your face, you will grow up to be an old person with age spots. Which are just freckles who found each other.
I'm still not fat. And I never will be. I have found the cure for fatness and it is called NOT over-eating, and also staying physically active. Very simple, even in later years.
What I can tell you about getting older is that, if you are the type of person who learns from your mistakes, who takes personal accountability for your actions, and who has sought out knowledge and understanding, then getting old equals getting WISE. Not everyone gets wise with age. But I'm working on it.
Right now, at age 44, I am truly more happy than I have ever been. I have experienced many hardships (of my own doing), many trials, hurdles, obstacles and set-backs. And I have never given up or given in. I am not only a survivor but a thriver.
I look forward to what life has in store for the rest of my life. BRING IT.
I have yet to have an urge to cut my hair off short, perm it and color it blue. I have a few grays but nothing to get bent out of shape over. Oddly enough, most of my hair is darker than it's ever been - a nuisance when trying to maintain "natural blonde."
I have a few aches and pains but if I'm honest with myself, I've had a few aches and pains my entire life, starting with gymnastics at age 6. My worst pain is in my neck and it was from falling on it too many times as a very young child. Other than that, my hips sometimes hurt if I run really far distances. I also get shin splints and stress fractures in my feet. But really, I can run a couple miles every single day and be fine. It's those really long distance runs that hurt. And if I remember correctly, I hurt every day of my high school tenure due to running too much. Pain from running, in my opinion, is not limited to 40+ year olds. It's just par for the course. So as a result, I keep my running to a mile or two a day and I am fine as frog's hair.
My vision is shitty. It used to just be distance. My distance vision is now something like 20/300. I have to wear glasses or contacts to drive. The issue I'm having now is that, when I wear contacts, my vision is OVER-corrected and I can't see close up. This poses a problem when, for instance, I want to wear contacts AND read a dinner menu. My solution is to wear only one contact and to read close up with the uncorrected eye, and see far with the corrected eye. I refuse to wear reading glasses. At least not yet.
I'm noticing more and more "hyperpigmentation" spots on my skin. Or for a much uglier word, "AGE SPOTS." Yes, that's right. I have age spots. And despite what those expensive spas tell you, there really is nothing that makes them go away. As soon as you have spent $3,000 getting a spot lasered, another freckle party sprouts up and then what? I'm noticing them all over my body and not in places where the sun hits. So all that lecturing about staying out of the sun is just a bunch of hooey. Fact is, if you were a kid with really cute freckles on your face, you will grow up to be an old person with age spots. Which are just freckles who found each other.
I'm still not fat. And I never will be. I have found the cure for fatness and it is called NOT over-eating, and also staying physically active. Very simple, even in later years.
What I can tell you about getting older is that, if you are the type of person who learns from your mistakes, who takes personal accountability for your actions, and who has sought out knowledge and understanding, then getting old equals getting WISE. Not everyone gets wise with age. But I'm working on it.
Right now, at age 44, I am truly more happy than I have ever been. I have experienced many hardships (of my own doing), many trials, hurdles, obstacles and set-backs. And I have never given up or given in. I am not only a survivor but a thriver.
I look forward to what life has in store for the rest of my life. BRING IT.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Spring Break
We're not going to a theme park this year. In fact, we've NEVER been to a theme park. I hate theme parks. I would rather lick the guest toilet seat than go to one of those places filled with crowds of screaming kids, over-booked into over-priced kid-centric hotels with kids screaming and running through the hotel hallways, and two-hour long lines to stand in for a 60-second ride.
Nope. Nor are we driving cross-country because we waited until the very last minute, waiting for airline fares to go down when they actually quadrupled in price. I don't think driving for 15 hours constitutes a "vacation". I think that sounds like torture.
It's a "small world" and I choose to live in a small world, as in, going to the awesome resort just 30 minutes north of where we live, where they have a water park, awesome restaurants (not disney-esque kid food) with steak and *gasp* seafood and good wine.
We have an 1,800-square foot suite with two separate bedrooms overlooking the lake, with access to jet skis and fine dining and putt putt golf. We're going to have soooooo much fun with Kaelen.
Pictures to follow.
Nope. Nor are we driving cross-country because we waited until the very last minute, waiting for airline fares to go down when they actually quadrupled in price. I don't think driving for 15 hours constitutes a "vacation". I think that sounds like torture.
It's a "small world" and I choose to live in a small world, as in, going to the awesome resort just 30 minutes north of where we live, where they have a water park, awesome restaurants (not disney-esque kid food) with steak and *gasp* seafood and good wine.
We have an 1,800-square foot suite with two separate bedrooms overlooking the lake, with access to jet skis and fine dining and putt putt golf. We're going to have soooooo much fun with Kaelen.
Pictures to follow.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Paganism Prevails
My Mother tried her damnedest to turn me into a hypocritical religious zealout like herself. But in her attempts, she alienated me from all things religulous. But I believe that I have benefitted from this - I have an open mind. And most importantly, I am not a HYPOCRITE. I believe that everyone has a right to believe whatever they choose to believe, cult brainwashing and human/animal sacrificing not withstanding. To each her own.
I've read up a lot on Pagan/Wiccan beliefs, and I have come to the realization that the Pagans had it right.
I know what you're thinking... those crazy pagans gather together in dark capes, encircling themselves in salt rings and casting spells on people. I'm not saying that doesn't happen - it does. But that is not what Paganism is about, really. Paganism was and is SCIENCE. Yes, before modern religion there was science.
At one time, all humans were Pagans. The Pagans realized their place in the planet, as one of Dependency. We depend on the elements (sun/fire, earth, water and wind), for our existence. The Pagans didn't so much "worship" the elements, as they acknowledged their dependency on them. For instance, the Pagans don't view the sun as a God in human form, but rather, they view the sun as the sun - a bright ball of fire that lights our planet, grows our plants, warms our skin, and sometimes, burns us and our crops. Same for the earth, the wind and the water. They are exactly what they are - nothing mystical - but part of life, good and bad. But things that we as humans cannot live without. And since the elements provide life for all living things on the earth, there is a "life force" within the elements. Again, this is not mysticism, but rather Science.
As with all good things, bad things evolve and this is what happened with Paganism. The Pagans began putting more and more power into their own hands and started sacrificing humans. This grotesqueness paved the way for mysticism and modern religion (Judeo/Christian/Islamic) to form hold. Modern religion claims that we HUMANS have dominion over the earth. And for the past 3,000 years or so, we have been setting to destroy the earth and our environment. And quite successfully.
I've read up a lot on Pagan/Wiccan beliefs, and I have come to the realization that the Pagans had it right.
I know what you're thinking... those crazy pagans gather together in dark capes, encircling themselves in salt rings and casting spells on people. I'm not saying that doesn't happen - it does. But that is not what Paganism is about, really. Paganism was and is SCIENCE. Yes, before modern religion there was science.
At one time, all humans were Pagans. The Pagans realized their place in the planet, as one of Dependency. We depend on the elements (sun/fire, earth, water and wind), for our existence. The Pagans didn't so much "worship" the elements, as they acknowledged their dependency on them. For instance, the Pagans don't view the sun as a God in human form, but rather, they view the sun as the sun - a bright ball of fire that lights our planet, grows our plants, warms our skin, and sometimes, burns us and our crops. Same for the earth, the wind and the water. They are exactly what they are - nothing mystical - but part of life, good and bad. But things that we as humans cannot live without. And since the elements provide life for all living things on the earth, there is a "life force" within the elements. Again, this is not mysticism, but rather Science.
As with all good things, bad things evolve and this is what happened with Paganism. The Pagans began putting more and more power into their own hands and started sacrificing humans. This grotesqueness paved the way for mysticism and modern religion (Judeo/Christian/Islamic) to form hold. Modern religion claims that we HUMANS have dominion over the earth. And for the past 3,000 years or so, we have been setting to destroy the earth and our environment. And quite successfully.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Stating what should be Obvious
I have embedded within this blog a tracking software code and I must say it is quite extraordinary. Not only can I tell the NUMBER of "hits" I receive to this blog. But I can also tell the CITY from where my viewers reside, as well the URL address that my viewers came from, and where they went to just AFTER viewing my blog.
I'll be the first one to admit that my blog, "Farting Glitter," is exactly what the blog title implies - don't expect any soul-revealing deep secrets here. Like I would do that.
Nope. My life is perfect as far as you or anyone else who stumbles upon this Blog is concerned. And if you "stumbled" here intentionally for the purposes of snooping on me, here's a glittery unicorn for you.
I See You. Stay away from porn.
I'll be the first one to admit that my blog, "Farting Glitter," is exactly what the blog title implies - don't expect any soul-revealing deep secrets here. Like I would do that.
I See You. Stay away from porn.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Lover's Day
As is Mickey's and my tradition, we ate in, in our PJ's (all day). No fancy gifts, no chocolates (that neither of us needs). No cards with cheesy sentiments that someone else wrote...
We just enjoyed each other immensely. And even after 10.5 years together, it's still pretty "immense".
I'm so Lucky to have Mickey as my permanent Valentine, year after year after year.
Happy Valentine's Day, Baby! I love you IMMENSELY.
xoxoxoxo
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
THIS is the way to spend Christmas!
I had a facial at their Spa, which was awesome. And while I was getting that done, Mickey bumped into Donovan McNabb. The Washington Redskins team happened to be staying in the hotel that night (for the Cowboys game the next day). Mickey told Donovan that we hated both the Eagles and the Redskins, but that he and I bothed really liked Donovan. Then Donovan signed an autograph for Mickey that said, "#1 Cowboy fan, Donovan McNabb." How cool is that? I would have skipped the facial for THAT.
The suite was 2,000 square feet, with two bathrooms. Tiger Woods stayed here during the Byron Nelson. Mickey surprised me with the most beautiful flower arrangement I've ever seen, as well as a bottle of champagne.
Sunday we went to watch the Cowboys game. And the Cowboys beat the Redskins by one point, securing their "lead" by intercepting a pass in Redskins' territory. It was a perfect weekend.
Merry Christmas!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Mickey Really is the Sweetest Man
I mean that, too. Not just because he pays my bills and buys me nice things. (not that those things hurt, mind you)
A couple days ago FedEx delivered a box addressed to Mickey. I e-mailed him and told him his box arrived. He said it was for "our son." I thought he had bought something for Gunny.
I called and asked Mickey if he wanted me to open it and he said, "Yes." So I did. And in the box was a deployment flag with one star, representative of the one child that "we" have deployed right now. A deployment magnet (for my car), and a Christmas ornament that says, "Proud of my Soldier."
It was such a sweet and thoughtful thing of him to do. I wish Mickey was home right now so I could hug him. I wish James was home so I can take that flag down. I have two wonderful Men. I am very lucky.
I called and asked Mickey if he wanted me to open it and he said, "Yes." So I did. And in the box was a deployment flag with one star, representative of the one child that "we" have deployed right now. A deployment magnet (for my car), and a Christmas ornament that says, "Proud of my Soldier."
It was such a sweet and thoughtful thing of him to do. I wish Mickey was home right now so I could hug him. I wish James was home so I can take that flag down. I have two wonderful Men. I am very lucky.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
James is Deployed again
..to some armpit of the world. He left early this morning and he will be gone 6-12 months with very little contact to me or his wife and kids.
I know this is part of military life, but damn, it really sucks.
I hate knowing he is in harm's way and not knowing and not being able to help him. I hate that he won't be around for Christmas or his birthday.
I'm so glad he'll be getting out after this deployment.
Tonight I lit a prayer candle for him. I'm not a praying type. But tonight I am praying for his safety and his quick return.
If you are inclined to do so, please keep my son James in your thoughts and prayers. He's a good son, a good father, a good soldier, and a good man. I know he has important job ahead of him. And I am very proud of him for the sacrifices he is making for this Country.
But I'm still worried.
I know this is part of military life, but damn, it really sucks.
I hate knowing he is in harm's way and not knowing and not being able to help him. I hate that he won't be around for Christmas or his birthday.
I'm so glad he'll be getting out after this deployment.
Tonight I lit a prayer candle for him. I'm not a praying type. But tonight I am praying for his safety and his quick return.
If you are inclined to do so, please keep my son James in your thoughts and prayers. He's a good son, a good father, a good soldier, and a good man. I know he has important job ahead of him. And I am very proud of him for the sacrifices he is making for this Country.But I'm still worried.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Thankful
It's not often that I write or post about the good things in my life. But I really do have a Wonderful Life. I have very little to complain about, and the good definitely outweighs any bad.
I'm Thankful that my son and his family are doing well. I worry about him deploying next month, but I am grateful that he has had 2+ years of intensive training to prepare him for this mission. I'm very proud of my (not so) Little Boy.
I'm Thankful for my wonderful, drop dead Sexy, generous, successful, loving Husband, who goes out of his way to make me happy. I don't know what I did to deserve this man, but I'm grateful to have met and later married him.
I'm Thankful for my health and sanity. Life for me is Good.
Happy Thanksgiving!
I'm Thankful that my son and his family are doing well. I worry about him deploying next month, but I am grateful that he has had 2+ years of intensive training to prepare him for this mission. I'm very proud of my (not so) Little Boy.I'm Thankful for my two Dogs, who are Loyal to the Death, Gunny to the perp's death, Lola to her own (she would have a heart attack). They're boy big old sweeties and I love them more every day (even though Lola still digs holes in the back yard).
I'm Thankful for my wonderful, drop dead Sexy, generous, successful, loving Husband, who goes out of his way to make me happy. I don't know what I did to deserve this man, but I'm grateful to have met and later married him.
I'm Thankful for my health and sanity. Life for me is Good.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Friday, November 5, 2010
London, Here We Come!!!
For once I won't have to purchase a Rosetta Stone prior to traveling. Saturday night we are leaving for London, and will stop in Amsterdam for a couple days on the way home.
I hadn't originally planned on going. This is a business trip for Mickey. He's visiting clients there. He was supposed to take his Operations counterpart with him, but the Ops guy had to back out. So instead of going alone, he is taking ME. Yay, me!
And I'm not going to just sit in the hotel, either. I'm going on the client visits with him. Since I'm a Recruiter, I'm going as representative for the Staff Aug portion. But mostly I'm going to smile and nod.
What I've eaten and heard about authentic English food is that it's boring and bland. But I've heard that the Indian and Chinese food there is awesome. I will not be eating any dish, with the main ingredient of blood. And as always, I will not voluntarily opt to eat something that requires me to pick it up with my hands, with the exception, maybe of fish and chips (although I have heard that they wrap it up in newspaper, which seems gross that you would get INK on your food. WTF?).
And the food in Amsterdam, where I have been, is disgusting. I love cheese, but their cheese is disgusting. And a large portion of the indigenous diet consists of pickled fish. Fortunately there are lots of hamburger and pizza joints in Amsterdam, no doubt to accommodate tourists' munchies. And last we were there, we found an awesome Argentinian restaurant that served obscene portions of red meat.
So basically I am going to Europe to eat food from Asia and South America.
I plan on takings lots of photos. Stay tuned.
I hadn't originally planned on going. This is a business trip for Mickey. He's visiting clients there. He was supposed to take his Operations counterpart with him, but the Ops guy had to back out. So instead of going alone, he is taking ME. Yay, me!
And I'm not going to just sit in the hotel, either. I'm going on the client visits with him. Since I'm a Recruiter, I'm going as representative for the Staff Aug portion. But mostly I'm going to smile and nod.
What I've eaten and heard about authentic English food is that it's boring and bland. But I've heard that the Indian and Chinese food there is awesome. I will not be eating any dish, with the main ingredient of blood. And as always, I will not voluntarily opt to eat something that requires me to pick it up with my hands, with the exception, maybe of fish and chips (although I have heard that they wrap it up in newspaper, which seems gross that you would get INK on your food. WTF?).
And the food in Amsterdam, where I have been, is disgusting. I love cheese, but their cheese is disgusting. And a large portion of the indigenous diet consists of pickled fish. Fortunately there are lots of hamburger and pizza joints in Amsterdam, no doubt to accommodate tourists' munchies. And last we were there, we found an awesome Argentinian restaurant that served obscene portions of red meat.
So basically I am going to Europe to eat food from Asia and South America.
I plan on takings lots of photos. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Mooches
I know I've posted about this before, but it's worth reiterating, since it seems to have escalated.
My Husband attracts parasitic mooches in droves. I don't know what it is about him that a predatorial gold digger can smell him from miles away. EVERYWHERE he goes, people are asking him for loans or gifts or expecting him to fund their retarded "business" ventures.
Just recently the Texas Rangers won their pennant and he got hit up by a dozen people for World Series Tickets. Keep in mind, Mickey does not work for TicketMaster or the Texas Rangers. These people expect him to buy THEM tickets to the World Series. WTF?!!! Who asks for shit like this? World Series tickets are about $600 each. The list of beggars includes: neighbors, Mickey's family members (all of them), co-workers, clients, and scumbags at the GYM.
This is in addition to the regular incidences of just being hit up directly for cash.
I just don't get why people feel they are entitled to even a piece of OUR money. What happened to Pride or Shame? It pisses me off, really. And it makes me want to move far away to a remote locale with lots of acreage and growing a garden and buying a cow for milk, and no telephones, just so we can have some peace.
And here's a concept: BUY YOUR OWN FUCKING WORLD SERIES TICKETS!!!!!!!!
My Husband attracts parasitic mooches in droves. I don't know what it is about him that a predatorial gold digger can smell him from miles away. EVERYWHERE he goes, people are asking him for loans or gifts or expecting him to fund their retarded "business" ventures.
Just recently the Texas Rangers won their pennant and he got hit up by a dozen people for World Series Tickets. Keep in mind, Mickey does not work for TicketMaster or the Texas Rangers. These people expect him to buy THEM tickets to the World Series. WTF?!!! Who asks for shit like this? World Series tickets are about $600 each. The list of beggars includes: neighbors, Mickey's family members (all of them), co-workers, clients, and scumbags at the GYM.
This is in addition to the regular incidences of just being hit up directly for cash.
I just don't get why people feel they are entitled to even a piece of OUR money. What happened to Pride or Shame? It pisses me off, really. And it makes me want to move far away to a remote locale with lots of acreage and growing a garden and buying a cow for milk, and no telephones, just so we can have some peace.
And here's a concept: BUY YOUR OWN FUCKING WORLD SERIES TICKETS!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Freaking Out!!!
The wedding is in 3 days. Actually it's 2:00 on Saturday. Only I'll be there at noon until 5:00. It's been a long time since I worked a job that required me to be gone for most of the day.
I wish I could have my bottom round roast tomorrow instead of Friday. Tomorrow is Turkey Day, then. In the morning I will stuff my prepared herb marinade under the skin of 4 turkeys. During the day I will boil the pasta and then soak it in rice wine vinegar. Some time tomorrow I have to go to the Facility and check it out and get the Lay of the Land.
Friday I will go to the grocery store again and get the beef and the remaining vegetables and fruit. I will briefly marinate the beef. And then around noon I will braise it. And then I will roast it for about and hour and a half. And then let it sit. Meanwhile I will chop the tomatoes and the mozarella and puree the pesto with balsamic and start marinating the tomatoes. I will mix the pasta salad and put them all into containers.
Then I will begin brewing tea.
Saturday morning I will begin chopping the meats and putting them into trays. By noon I will be setting up a cheese/fruit display. And before 2:00 I will have a buffet table set up and ready to go. And then me (and my staff) will have fed 250 wedding guests.
Mickey and I are supposed to go to a dear friend's 50th birthday party at a swanky restaurant downtown. Mickey thinks I won't be up for it. But I think I will.
We'll see. Wish me luck!
I wish I could have my bottom round roast tomorrow instead of Friday. Tomorrow is Turkey Day, then. In the morning I will stuff my prepared herb marinade under the skin of 4 turkeys. During the day I will boil the pasta and then soak it in rice wine vinegar. Some time tomorrow I have to go to the Facility and check it out and get the Lay of the Land.
Friday I will go to the grocery store again and get the beef and the remaining vegetables and fruit. I will briefly marinate the beef. And then around noon I will braise it. And then I will roast it for about and hour and a half. And then let it sit. Meanwhile I will chop the tomatoes and the mozarella and puree the pesto with balsamic and start marinating the tomatoes. I will mix the pasta salad and put them all into containers.
Then I will begin brewing tea.
Saturday morning I will begin chopping the meats and putting them into trays. By noon I will be setting up a cheese/fruit display. And before 2:00 I will have a buffet table set up and ready to go. And then me (and my staff) will have fed 250 wedding guests.
Mickey and I are supposed to go to a dear friend's 50th birthday party at a swanky restaurant downtown. Mickey thinks I won't be up for it. But I think I will.
We'll see. Wish me luck!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
The Dress
I went online and ordered what I thought was the perfect dress for a formal wedding that Mickey and i are attending together next month. It arrived today and let me say that it was less than perfect.
It's satin, yes. But I can't begin to describe how wrinkled this dress is. Were I to try to wear it, I would have to PAY a dry cleaner to iron it for me.
But that's not the worst of it. This dress that I've been anxiously anticipating is also a fucking TENT. It's gigantic. It's a fucking MooMoo. Complete with elastic on the back, in case I gain the 50 pounds required to wear this fucking canopy.
I'm really pissed off that I have to drive to the post office and pay to ship this ugly ass tent back to the company. I'm pissed that they wasted my time. And I'm pissed that they don't, at a minimum, absorb the shipping costs for my returning it.
Tomorrow I'm going to have to drive into town, which takes about 20 minutes each way, to the post office. I've twisted up this TENT called a dress, into a tight rope and bound it all together in duct tape and am sending it back return receipt requested. I'm going to call and harrass these assholes until they credit my card for the bad purchase of this dog of a dress.
Now I have to go find another dress. Assholes.
Mickey thinks I'm over-reacting. I kicked him in the balls for suggesting it.
It's satin, yes. But I can't begin to describe how wrinkled this dress is. Were I to try to wear it, I would have to PAY a dry cleaner to iron it for me.
But that's not the worst of it. This dress that I've been anxiously anticipating is also a fucking TENT. It's gigantic. It's a fucking MooMoo. Complete with elastic on the back, in case I gain the 50 pounds required to wear this fucking canopy.
I'm really pissed off that I have to drive to the post office and pay to ship this ugly ass tent back to the company. I'm pissed that they wasted my time. And I'm pissed that they don't, at a minimum, absorb the shipping costs for my returning it.
Tomorrow I'm going to have to drive into town, which takes about 20 minutes each way, to the post office. I've twisted up this TENT called a dress, into a tight rope and bound it all together in duct tape and am sending it back return receipt requested. I'm going to call and harrass these assholes until they credit my card for the bad purchase of this dog of a dress.
Now I have to go find another dress. Assholes.
Mickey thinks I'm over-reacting. I kicked him in the balls for suggesting it.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Conversations with God
Mickey: I think you could. Hey, what's that coat in the frame next to it?
Me: This one?
[the coat in the picture left]
Mickey: Yeah, that one. You should get it.
Me: I don't know. It's a hundred degrees outside. I think I can wait on a coat.
Mickey: Why wait? Aren't you going to need a coat this winter?
Me: Yeah.
Mickey: Then you should just get it. It's velvet, right?
Me: [looks up description] Yeah, it's velvet. It's really pretty.
Mickey: Get it, then. I want you to get it.
[so I got it!]
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Catering - the Good, the Bad and the Ugly
I love catering. The truth is, I don't need to work. My Type-A, workaholic husband makes more than enough money for me to stay home and do nothing but give him back rubs. (although I don't)
I occasionally take on a catering gig because I love to cook and it's an ego boost for me. I think my food is not only above average but creative and for me, it's a chance to display my "art". My recipes are my own. My food kicks ass.
I'm catering a wedding next month for 200 people. They're on a budget. I get that. I even appreciate that. Everyone should have a budget. But I think the fucking tacky ass plastic flowers are enough "cut back". Seriously. Do you want the food to be just as lack luster?
I did a presentation several months ago with about 5 food dishes that I suggested. They chose them all. Then they went back and made modifications. And more modifications. Then I sent a quote, which was exactly in line with the "budget" that I was given. And then what did they do? You guessed it. They went back and asked me for "cheaper" dishes. WTF? If you want plain mashed potatoes then you should have some relative boil up a bunch of potatoes and it won't cost you anything. And no one will like the food. But hey, it's Cheap. And apparently that's what's important.
I am proud of myself, however, for standing up and saying, "Hey, this is your daughter's one and only wedding. I make fantastic food. And I am giving you a STELLAR deal within the cost parameters that YOU gave me. I really, REALLY can't go down on my prices any more and no, I'm not dumbing down the food."
And guess what? They're going with my menu at my prices.
Maybe the marriage will be a success after all.
I occasionally take on a catering gig because I love to cook and it's an ego boost for me. I think my food is not only above average but creative and for me, it's a chance to display my "art". My recipes are my own. My food kicks ass.
I'm catering a wedding next month for 200 people. They're on a budget. I get that. I even appreciate that. Everyone should have a budget. But I think the fucking tacky ass plastic flowers are enough "cut back". Seriously. Do you want the food to be just as lack luster?
I did a presentation several months ago with about 5 food dishes that I suggested. They chose them all. Then they went back and made modifications. And more modifications. Then I sent a quote, which was exactly in line with the "budget" that I was given. And then what did they do? You guessed it. They went back and asked me for "cheaper" dishes. WTF? If you want plain mashed potatoes then you should have some relative boil up a bunch of potatoes and it won't cost you anything. And no one will like the food. But hey, it's Cheap. And apparently that's what's important.
I am proud of myself, however, for standing up and saying, "Hey, this is your daughter's one and only wedding. I make fantastic food. And I am giving you a STELLAR deal within the cost parameters that YOU gave me. I really, REALLY can't go down on my prices any more and no, I'm not dumbing down the food."
And guess what? They're going with my menu at my prices.
Maybe the marriage will be a success after all.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Hubbel & Hudson
I love this place. It's a fantastic gourmet market, cooking school and swanky restaurant (that uses all ingredients from the market). It's a cook's dream - even a hack like me.
Mickey suggested it. He said, "Hey, why don't we go to Hubbel & Hudson?" And this, is his most certain to get laid, Mating Call.
I don't know how describe this place. But really, anything you buy from there will be awesome. What? You think you don't like pate? You will love THIS pate. You say you don't like beets? You've never had THESE golden beets with parsley, garlic and goat cheese. And speaking of goat cheese, even if you THINK you hate goat cheese, the goat brie that I brought home will convert you to the Joy that is cheese made from goat's milk.
And the wine... let's just say that just like the food, there is not bad wine here. But there is no better red wine than O'Brien's Seduction. I bought 2 bottles of this stuff plus 4 bottles of other recommended wines.
And Truffle Butter from France. This is the most awesome stuff I've ever eaten. I bought a baguette there and sliced it in half and dabbed a little truffle butter and broiled it for a few minutes in the oven. O. M. F. G.!!!!!!!!!!!!
Men, if you are following this blog... if you wife likes to cook at all, TAKE HER TO HUBBEL & HUDSON this coming weekend. Not only will you get a Hummer, but your dinners for the following three nights will be AMAZING. It's a win-win.
Mickey suggested it. He said, "Hey, why don't we go to Hubbel & Hudson?" And this, is his most certain to get laid, Mating Call.
I don't know how describe this place. But really, anything you buy from there will be awesome. What? You think you don't like pate? You will love THIS pate. You say you don't like beets? You've never had THESE golden beets with parsley, garlic and goat cheese. And speaking of goat cheese, even if you THINK you hate goat cheese, the goat brie that I brought home will convert you to the Joy that is cheese made from goat's milk.
And the wine... let's just say that just like the food, there is not bad wine here. But there is no better red wine than O'Brien's Seduction. I bought 2 bottles of this stuff plus 4 bottles of other recommended wines.
And Truffle Butter from France. This is the most awesome stuff I've ever eaten. I bought a baguette there and sliced it in half and dabbed a little truffle butter and broiled it for a few minutes in the oven. O. M. F. G.!!!!!!!!!!!!
Men, if you are following this blog... if you wife likes to cook at all, TAKE HER TO HUBBEL & HUDSON this coming weekend. Not only will you get a Hummer, but your dinners for the following three nights will be AMAZING. It's a win-win.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
What to do for our impending 10 year anniversary
September 29th of this year will mark the ten year anniversary of when Mickey and I first met. October 9th is our 5 year wedding anniversary. I think I'm going to beat Mickey to the punch this year and do something on the 29th. He won't be expecting it, for sure.
But I have no idea what to do. He's so difficult to buy for. He buys everything he wants, for himself. I'd like to get him something sentimental, since it's a "big" year for us.
So I'm taking suggestions. And to give you an idea of what the "mood" was like when he and I met, I'll paint a little picture.
My good friend Leisa had been trying for about 6 months to set the two of us up and neither Mickey nor myself wanting ANYTHING to do with a blind date. Her description(s) didn't help matters. Leisa told me that Mickey was a Marine who was recently divorced. She told Mickey that I was a divorced single Mom with a 14 year old, and that I had really big boobs.
So it happened that I had nothing to do on a Friday night so Leisa invited me to her office happy hour at a bar on the lake. Mickey was there and when I arrived, he and his buddies had already had countless numbers of shots (of Jager. Gross!), and Mickey was red-eyed and slurring his speech. Leisa introduced me to him and he said, "You have really nice breasts."
When we left, Leisa asked me what I thought about Mickey and I told her that he appeared to be an alcoholic but that I thought he was cute. So she gave him my phone number. The rest is history.
Now, HOW to commemorate that chance encounter for eternity? I was thinking about maybe getting some shot glasses with our names and anniversary date on it. Any other suggestions?
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The Caymans pushed her over the Edge
I want to start by saying its been TEN YEARS. 10 LONG FUCKING years.
I knew this last trip would get to her. EVERYTHING "gets to her." It doesn't take much to push her over the edge. She teeters there most of the time on her own. I'd post you the last diatribe of insane text messages she sent to my husband, but we're about to enter into a lawsuit, so I can't. But trust me, she's fucking CRA-ZEEEEEEE.
And since my wonderful husband failed to feel guilty or take all the smelly bait she threw at him, she, of course, resorted to threatening legal action. She really and truly feels that she's been, somehow, wronged. How dare my husband leave her and move on and DARE to be happy while she's so fucking, CONSTANTLY and perpetually miserable.
And then when the threats of legal action (ha, ha) didn't make my husband lose control of his bowels, she resorted to having both kids call Mickey (on speakerphone so she could hear his voice and imagine she's not actually being abandoned by him).
I can't wait until she gets a Psyche Eval. Can't. Wait.
I knew this last trip would get to her. EVERYTHING "gets to her." It doesn't take much to push her over the edge. She teeters there most of the time on her own. I'd post you the last diatribe of insane text messages she sent to my husband, but we're about to enter into a lawsuit, so I can't. But trust me, she's fucking CRA-ZEEEEEEE.
And since my wonderful husband failed to feel guilty or take all the smelly bait she threw at him, she, of course, resorted to threatening legal action. She really and truly feels that she's been, somehow, wronged. How dare my husband leave her and move on and DARE to be happy while she's so fucking, CONSTANTLY and perpetually miserable.
And then when the threats of legal action (ha, ha) didn't make my husband lose control of his bowels, she resorted to having both kids call Mickey (on speakerphone so she could hear his voice and imagine she's not actually being abandoned by him).
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
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