birds are using potholders to pull worms out of the ground.
the trees are whistling for dogs.
hot water now comes out of both taps in the sink.
you can make sun tea instantly.
you break into a sweat the instant you step outside at 7:30 a.m.
you realize that asphalt has a liquid state.
you actually burn your hand opening the car door.
you learn that a seat belt buckle makes a pretty good
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Son of a gun, we'll have big fun, on the bio
No, that isn't a typo. I have been asked to create a "bio" for distribution to all staff and students at my new employer. This is not the sort of task I relish. Do I write in first person, third person, what? Maybe I should use the royal "we." "We are especially pleased that we should be welcomed into the Globe University family." Should I be chummy, or professional? Can I be both? Since I've never done this sort of work before, how do I describe myself in a way that will instill confidence? "Uh, yea, I know I've never actually DONE this kind of thing??? but, I can TOTALLY do it." All I can do is hope that my husband's confident manner has rubbed off on me a bit. He has the delightful ability, at the drop of a hat and if asked, to tell anyone and everyone within earshot about all the great things he has done and been. For him, confidence flows like water over the side of a plugged eaves trough during a hurricane.
For me, although I am very confident in my abilities and competence, expressing that verbally is a toughie. My good-girl, Catholic upbringing keeps reminding me to tone it down...don't be a braggart. "Never forget that you did get a C in gym class."
It isn't always easy assessing ourselves. I always tend to be too tough on myself. If I'm not careful, I'll measure myself against my own mind's eye version of who I could/should be, rather than acknowledging what I've learned and become. How do I take a good look at myself, sum it all up, and share that with others?
Where is the balance? My old pal the Dalai Lama of course has something to say on this point:
To say that humility is an essential ingredient in our pursuit of spiritual transformation may seem to be at odds with what I have said about the need for confidence. But there is clearly a distinction to be made between valid confidence or self-esteem, and conceit - which we can describe as an inflated sense of importance, grounded in a false image of self.
Ok, so we know there is a balance point somewhere. Somewhere between delusion and self-flagellation there is the spot where we feel good. The spot where we know ourselves. We have knowledge, experience, wisdom, and talents. Focus on those, knowing that there is always more to learn, and always room to grow!
So, enough stalling...time to write that bio!
For me, although I am very confident in my abilities and competence, expressing that verbally is a toughie. My good-girl, Catholic upbringing keeps reminding me to tone it down...don't be a braggart. "Never forget that you did get a C in gym class."
It isn't always easy assessing ourselves. I always tend to be too tough on myself. If I'm not careful, I'll measure myself against my own mind's eye version of who I could/should be, rather than acknowledging what I've learned and become. How do I take a good look at myself, sum it all up, and share that with others?
Where is the balance? My old pal the Dalai Lama of course has something to say on this point:
To say that humility is an essential ingredient in our pursuit of spiritual transformation may seem to be at odds with what I have said about the need for confidence. But there is clearly a distinction to be made between valid confidence or self-esteem, and conceit - which we can describe as an inflated sense of importance, grounded in a false image of self.
Ok, so we know there is a balance point somewhere. Somewhere between delusion and self-flagellation there is the spot where we feel good. The spot where we know ourselves. We have knowledge, experience, wisdom, and talents. Focus on those, knowing that there is always more to learn, and always room to grow!
So, enough stalling...time to write that bio!
Cartoon of the Day - The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
This is dedicated to all you wonderful mothers who have children going back to school this time of year:
Adorable Kitty Photo
My wonderful friend Tami from Misc. Ramblings sent me this adorable photo and I had to share it with all of you. Have a fabulous day!
{Image Credit}
{Image Credit}
Doggie Photo Shoot
The other day, with lots of help from my ever supportive and patient husband Bill, I did a photo shoot with all the doggies after they had all had a bath. {This time I did their baths in shifts, three at a time, TeeHee}. Here are the best ones out of about 30 photos.....
These are the three Yorkies that we are dog-sitting: Maila, Mai-Li, and Mumbo
These are our three doggies: Lady Mia,
These are the three Yorkies that we are dog-sitting: Maila, Mai-Li, and Mumbo
These are our three doggies: Lady Mia,
new collection added.......
HERE IS MY NEW ITEMS ADDED IN KPOP COLLECTION..THANKS TO ONE OF MY BESTIES, WANIE AND HER FRIEND THAT HELPED ME TO BUY THESE..I'M GONNA ORDER MORE..WILL LIST THEM OUT LATER...LOL..MBLAQ - YUKISS - 'ONLY ONE'2PM - 1:59PM / DSCSWONDER GIRLS - 2DTBEAST - BEAST IS THE BEST / SHOCK OF THE NEW ERASUJU - BONAMANA
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Cartoon of the Day - Dad School
This cartoon reminded me of the old proverb: "Anyone can be a father, but it takes a real man to be a DAD."
Even though Bill is Nikolaus and Alexander's step-father, he has always been a "dad" to them and they have always appreciated everything he has done for them and they really love him and consider him their dad.
So we dedicate this cartoon to him...
{Click on cartoon to enlarge}
Bill,
Even though Bill is Nikolaus and Alexander's step-father, he has always been a "dad" to them and they have always appreciated everything he has done for them and they really love him and consider him their dad.
So we dedicate this cartoon to him...
{Click on cartoon to enlarge}
Bill,
Alchemy, South Park
South Park is a foodie's paradise- a little off the beaten path but easily accessible, small, quaint, but with a ton of variety and filled with local joints from your friendly neighborhood tavern to an upscale dining experience requiring a tie. The former, happily, is much more prevalent, and the majority of restaurants in the area lean more towards a casual atmosphere, with varying levels of cuisine. One of the more interesting places whose menu is a cut above the norm is Alchemy on 30th and Beech. When I find myself on that block, 9 times out of 10 it's because Hamilton's Tavern is a favorite haunt, where the beer list is huge and spills over to the menu itself.
Alchemy in nestled just south of Hamilton's by only a few doors, but the clientele is as different as the menu. Alchemy's dinner menu is broken into sections with appetizers, tapas, entrees, and desserts available with influences ranging from Italian pickled vegetables to Puerto Rican tostones. Although upon entering it appeared that the restaurant was only about half full, the host informed us that we had perfect timing and the very last table available before reservations booked up the entire floor was ready for us. The decor was extremely tasteful and welcoming, despite a noticeable crowd of upper-middle class couples. However, we didn't glaringly stand out with our attire of t-shirts and shorts, and the entire waitstaff was prompt, friendly, and helpful.
Ashton had happened to stop by with Andy the day before on a whim, and what a happy choice that was! We decided to go again for a few tapas choices before Ashton caught a plane to Vermont, so we decided upon the squash blossoms and gazpacho Anduluz for starters, and then a shared entree of the local sea bass and Thai oyster shooters to round off the meal. Unfortunately, despite the tantalizing looking dessert menu, it wasn't in the cards for us that night.
Squash Blossoms (Road Side Stand) – lightly tempura battered and stuffed with herbed ricotta, drizzled with basil oil
Andy and Ashton had tried the squash blossoms the previous occasion and sang its praises; I found it to be very satisfying in some areas and woefully lacking in others. The presentation was magnificent, the cheese was delightful, and the freshness apparent- but the bite taken from the top of the stem released a surprisingly bitter taste that completely dominated that (small) section of the vegetable. However, the majority of the plant proved to be a solid offering and I'd recommend it without hesitation.
Gazpacho Anduluz – charred tomatoes pureed with garlic, olive oil, shallot and cucumber
The gazpacho came next, and I found it to be just slightly heartier than I expected, but by no means do I consider myself a gazpacho connoisseur and it was great nonetheless! The cucumber resonated throughout the bowl, and the temperature was ideal for a summer night's enjoyment. The vibrant orange and yellow blossoms were beautiful against the tomato-red broth, and the Bread & Cie sourdough crust crowning the top was a delight, as usual.
Ashton was hungry for a bit more than tapas, so for his entree he chose the Local Sea Bass – pan roasted and served over caramelized fennel with extra virgin olive oil, grape tomatoes and capers. For some godforsaken reason, despite the fact that San Diego is on AN OCEAN and THERE ARE A BAJILLION FISH TO BE EATEN, reasonable and fresh seafood is hard to come by from what I've found. However, this fish was thick, fresh, wonderfully prepared, and an altogether glorious experience. I found it interesting that even with what seemed to be an overabundance of salty ingredients, this was by no means overly salted, which had a lot to do with the bed of cabbage-like white greens that the fish rested upon. By itself, this cabbage was a bit sweet and on the cusp of being too sour, but with the fish and the jus it was just delicious. The sauce was light and seemed to be simply the natural juices and a little olive oil, but it was perfectly seasoned and brought out the fresh flavor of the wish without being overpowering in itself.
Thai Oyster Shooters – fanny bay oysters, coconut milk, lemon grass, red chili, and cilantro
To wrap up the meal, we ordered the oyster shooters, which was a first for me- I love oysters, but wasn't quite sure how the "shooters" part came into it. The lemongrass was slightly stingy on the back of my throat, but there was a pleasant spice to the creaminess of the dish. Unfortunately, it was only slightly tainted by a bit of shell, and I found the lip of the glass to be a little small to accommodate the swift movement required to properly inhale this. However, I found the flavor to be complex and enjoyable- a recommendation for next time!
Overall, Alchemy seems to be able to balance an international menu without spreading themselves too thin and achieved a higher echelon of flavor balanced with a welcoming atmosphere. Next time Hamilton's is overflowing and you don't mind gussying it up a bit more, head a few doors down and enjoy!
Alchemy in nestled just south of Hamilton's by only a few doors, but the clientele is as different as the menu. Alchemy's dinner menu is broken into sections with appetizers, tapas, entrees, and desserts available with influences ranging from Italian pickled vegetables to Puerto Rican tostones. Although upon entering it appeared that the restaurant was only about half full, the host informed us that we had perfect timing and the very last table available before reservations booked up the entire floor was ready for us. The decor was extremely tasteful and welcoming, despite a noticeable crowd of upper-middle class couples. However, we didn't glaringly stand out with our attire of t-shirts and shorts, and the entire waitstaff was prompt, friendly, and helpful.
Ashton had happened to stop by with Andy the day before on a whim, and what a happy choice that was! We decided to go again for a few tapas choices before Ashton caught a plane to Vermont, so we decided upon the squash blossoms and gazpacho Anduluz for starters, and then a shared entree of the local sea bass and Thai oyster shooters to round off the meal. Unfortunately, despite the tantalizing looking dessert menu, it wasn't in the cards for us that night.
Squash Blossoms (Road Side Stand) – lightly tempura battered and stuffed with herbed ricotta, drizzled with basil oil
Andy and Ashton had tried the squash blossoms the previous occasion and sang its praises; I found it to be very satisfying in some areas and woefully lacking in others. The presentation was magnificent, the cheese was delightful, and the freshness apparent- but the bite taken from the top of the stem released a surprisingly bitter taste that completely dominated that (small) section of the vegetable. However, the majority of the plant proved to be a solid offering and I'd recommend it without hesitation.
Gazpacho Anduluz – charred tomatoes pureed with garlic, olive oil, shallot and cucumber
The gazpacho came next, and I found it to be just slightly heartier than I expected, but by no means do I consider myself a gazpacho connoisseur and it was great nonetheless! The cucumber resonated throughout the bowl, and the temperature was ideal for a summer night's enjoyment. The vibrant orange and yellow blossoms were beautiful against the tomato-red broth, and the Bread & Cie sourdough crust crowning the top was a delight, as usual.
Ashton was hungry for a bit more than tapas, so for his entree he chose the Local Sea Bass – pan roasted and served over caramelized fennel with extra virgin olive oil, grape tomatoes and capers. For some godforsaken reason, despite the fact that San Diego is on AN OCEAN and THERE ARE A BAJILLION FISH TO BE EATEN, reasonable and fresh seafood is hard to come by from what I've found. However, this fish was thick, fresh, wonderfully prepared, and an altogether glorious experience. I found it interesting that even with what seemed to be an overabundance of salty ingredients, this was by no means overly salted, which had a lot to do with the bed of cabbage-like white greens that the fish rested upon. By itself, this cabbage was a bit sweet and on the cusp of being too sour, but with the fish and the jus it was just delicious. The sauce was light and seemed to be simply the natural juices and a little olive oil, but it was perfectly seasoned and brought out the fresh flavor of the wish without being overpowering in itself.
Thai Oyster Shooters – fanny bay oysters, coconut milk, lemon grass, red chili, and cilantro
To wrap up the meal, we ordered the oyster shooters, which was a first for me- I love oysters, but wasn't quite sure how the "shooters" part came into it. The lemongrass was slightly stingy on the back of my throat, but there was a pleasant spice to the creaminess of the dish. Unfortunately, it was only slightly tainted by a bit of shell, and I found the lip of the glass to be a little small to accommodate the swift movement required to properly inhale this. However, I found the flavor to be complex and enjoyable- a recommendation for next time!
Overall, Alchemy seems to be able to balance an international menu without spreading themselves too thin and achieved a higher echelon of flavor balanced with a welcoming atmosphere. Next time Hamilton's is overflowing and you don't mind gussying it up a bit more, head a few doors down and enjoy!
Free to Be, You and Me
I find it amusing that this song has been resurrected for a current television commercial (also interesting to note that the company using the song is currently in the spotlight for funding less-than-"free to be" political candidates, but I digress). I remember listening to the whole Free to Be, You and Me album as a kid in the '70s. I think that today this phrase is worth remembering. There is so much fear in the world today. Free speech issues arise on a regular basis, bigotry still abounds, and people don't know where to draw the lines. Sometimes we overreact and lash out, just perpetuating the fear and confusion. Maybe we could lighten up.
Now, my intention today was to write a very lighthearted blog about individualism. I don't really want this to be a political forum, but rather a slice of life. So, here we go.
As Americans we like being individuals. We choose our jobs, fashions, places of worship, and favorite restaurants. We like to think of ourselves as unique persons. And, as Mister Rogers always said, we are special. "I like you just for being you." Still makes me tear up. After a hard day, nothing beats his soft voice reminding us that we are fine, just the way we are.
Now and then, however, we come across someone a bit more...heightened...than the everyday special. I am specifically thinking of a street musician we saw this summer in Barcelona. We were there as part of a long trip through several countries, and this guy still stands out as one of my favorite Europe memories. There is a place in Barcelona called Parc Guell. It was originally supposed to be a high-end housing development in the early 20th century, but it failed. Now it is a park. Architect Antoni Gaudi applied his skills to create buildings and seating areas reminiscent of Dr. Seuss. In one of the many grottos of the park, we found this musician of whom I speak.
The didgeridoo is a weird and primitive-sounding instrument from Australia. I personally like the sound, but it may not be for everyone. But this guy was inspired to make himself stand out even more. "I don't want to be just like all the OTHER didgeridoo players, for cryin' out loud. I want to be SPECIAL." With an Ernie puppet on one hand and a...something?...puppet on the other, a recorded beat/bass track, and his dideridoo, this dude was truly special. I can best describe the music as Aborigini/Rave/House. I actually really dig it.
Since this is Saturday, I'm keeping it short. Take a moment to think of the truly special folks you know, people who make you smile a bit just because they're here with us. Maybe reach beyond your own comfort zone a bit and try something new and fun, just for the heck of it. And, if you like, watch my friend from Barcelona strut his stuff. Have some fun, people, and keep smiling!
Now, my intention today was to write a very lighthearted blog about individualism. I don't really want this to be a political forum, but rather a slice of life. So, here we go.
As Americans we like being individuals. We choose our jobs, fashions, places of worship, and favorite restaurants. We like to think of ourselves as unique persons. And, as Mister Rogers always said, we are special. "I like you just for being you." Still makes me tear up. After a hard day, nothing beats his soft voice reminding us that we are fine, just the way we are.
Now and then, however, we come across someone a bit more...heightened...than the everyday special. I am specifically thinking of a street musician we saw this summer in Barcelona. We were there as part of a long trip through several countries, and this guy still stands out as one of my favorite Europe memories. There is a place in Barcelona called Parc Guell. It was originally supposed to be a high-end housing development in the early 20th century, but it failed. Now it is a park. Architect Antoni Gaudi applied his skills to create buildings and seating areas reminiscent of Dr. Seuss. In one of the many grottos of the park, we found this musician of whom I speak.
The didgeridoo is a weird and primitive-sounding instrument from Australia. I personally like the sound, but it may not be for everyone. But this guy was inspired to make himself stand out even more. "I don't want to be just like all the OTHER didgeridoo players, for cryin' out loud. I want to be SPECIAL." With an Ernie puppet on one hand and a...something?...puppet on the other, a recorded beat/bass track, and his dideridoo, this dude was truly special. I can best describe the music as Aborigini/Rave/House. I actually really dig it.
Since this is Saturday, I'm keeping it short. Take a moment to think of the truly special folks you know, people who make you smile a bit just because they're here with us. Maybe reach beyond your own comfort zone a bit and try something new and fun, just for the heck of it. And, if you like, watch my friend from Barcelona strut his stuff. Have some fun, people, and keep smiling!
Steve Jobs: Silent Neuroendocrine Tumor Survivor
In 2010, Forbes Magazine estimated Apple's Chairman and CEO Steve Jobs's net worth at 5.5 billion dollars, and Fortune magazine named Jobs as the single most influential person in business. Despite his money and influence, however, Steve Jobs has failed miserably in one critical area: as a survivor advocate for neuroendocrine tumors.
Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) cause carcinoid cancer, and Jobs had one. Like most things Apple, news of Jobs's health has been kept tightly under wraps, despite swirling conjecture. The first confirmation of cancer came from Jobs himself in an August 2004 email to employees, which he wrote from his hospital bed after having an islet cell pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor removed. The email was upbeat and boldly claimed that the surgery had "cured" him of cancer. Then, he went silent.
Jobs's ongoing secrecy about his cancer and treatment has spurred some outrageously false media reports, including a mistakenly published obituary by Bloomberg financial newswire in 2008. But instead of using these media glitches as an opportunity for advocacy, Jobs has just laughed them off - even jokingly quoting Mark Twain: "The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated".
So it was no surprise that Jobs made big news in March 2010 when he agreed to stand by Arnold Schwarzenegger's side at a press conference introducing new organ donor legislation. In front of reporters, Jobs publicly revealed that he had received a liver transplant in 2009, and spoke passionately about needing a "media campaign" to make an otherwise uniformed public aware of the need for organ donations. Again - Jobs said nothing about his rare underlying cancer, which is most likely the reason why he had to get a liver transplant in the first place.
Jobs's comments were akin to a parent at a GM press conference arguing for better breaks after losing a child in a drunk driving accident. While no one can argue against the importance of organ donations (or breaks), the root cause of the tragedy remains buried thereby squandering a unique opportunity to emotionally reach people on a life-saving issue.
I understand that Jobs is considered an indispensable asset to consumer confidence in Apple, which in turn affects stock prices; but as Charles de Gualle once said, "the graveyards of the world are filled with indispensable men." What if Jobs's legacy wasn't simply a cool phone and snazzy computer? What if he stopped looking for the hottest new gadget and started inspiring others to look for a cure for neuroendocrine tumors?
Charles de Gualle also said, "Faced with crisis, the man of character falls back on himself. He imposes his own stamp of action, takes responsibility for it, makes it his own." I hope that someday Jobs will make the fight against neuroendocrine tumors and carcinoid cancer his own, and use his iconic status to convince the world to join him.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Nikolaus on R & R in Connecticut
My son Nikolaus was able to go home from Afghanistan for two weeks on R & R a couple of weeks ago. Because his unit is based out of Connecticut, that is where they flew him back to and he didn't have enough time or money to come down here to Florida to see us, but that was OK, I was able to talk to him and text back & forth a lot. There was also a going away party for my niece who is moving to
Left Hand Beer Dinner at 54 Main Bistro
Left Hand Beer Dinner at 54 Main Bistro
Wednesday, September 1st
54 Main Bistro
54 Main Street
Hobart, IN
Reception 6pm, Dinner 6:30
Cost $50
219-947-2817
Join Mike Walters from Left Hand Brewing Company at a fabulous beer dinner personally created by Executive Chef Scot Hinkel at 54 Main Bistro. This dinner promises to be an unbelievable marriage of the celebration between food and beer. Left Hand will be the first brewery featured in the ongoing "Session's at 54" beer dinner program, don't miss out. A reception will be held at 6pm with a featured beer and dinner will proceed at 6:30. See you there!
Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho
First
Colby Jack Cheese
Black Jack Porter
Second
Micro Green Panzanella
Polestar Pilsner
Third
Ahi Tuna Nachos
Oktoberfest Marzen Lager
Intermezzo
Sweet Spicy Dirty Bloody Mary
400 Pound Monkey IPA
Fourth
Hudson Valley Fois Gras
Haystack Wheat
Fifth
Organic Pork Belly
Jackman's American Pale Ale
Sixth
Cookies n' Cream Affagato
Milk Stout
Executive Chef Scot Hinkel
Left Hand Beer Dinner at 54 Main Bistro
Left Hand Beer Dinner at 54 Main Bistro
Wednesday, September 1st
54 Main Bistro
54 Main Street
Hobart, IN
Reception 6pm, Dinner 6:30
Cost $50
219-947-2817
Join Mike Walters from Left Hand Brewing Company at a fabulous beer dinner personally created by Executive Chef Scot Hinkel at 54 Main Bistro. This dinner promises to be an unbelievable marriage of the celebration between food and beer. Left Hand will be the first brewery featured in the ongoing "Session's at 54" beer dinner program, don't miss out. A reception will be held at 6pm with a featured beer and dinner will proceed at 6:30. See you there!
Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho
First
Colby Jack Cheese
Black Jack Porter
Second
Micro Green Panzanella
Polestar Pilsner
Third
Ahi Tuna Nachos
Oktoberfest Marzen Lager
Intermezzo
Sweet Spicy Dirty Bloody Mary
400 Pound Monkey IPA
Fourth
Hudson Valley Fois Gras
Haystack Wheat
Fifth
Organic Pork Belly
Jackman's American Pale Ale
Sixth
Cookies n' Cream Affagato
Milk Stout
Executive Chef Scot Hinkel
Wafels & Dinges NYC
We had an appointment with Dr. Nash yesterday, who thought the wound looked absolutely fantastic, but told us to keep packing it until it completely closes. He also said that I no longer need to follow a low fat, low residue, low fiber diet - but to take it slow.So what was the first thing Gary and I did when we left Sloan-Kettering's Manhattan office? We hunted down this legendary Belgian waffle truck, Wafels & Dinges, for my first post-surgery taste of raw fruit: strawberries.
I ordered a liège wafel (soft / chewy) covered in fresh strawberries and a tasty addictive spread called speculoos, which has the consistency of smooth peanut butter but tastes a little like gingerbread and caramel. As they say in Belgium: mmmmmm .... lekker*!
Now, I don't necessarily think this sinful treat was what Dr. Nash had in mind when he said, "take it slow", but in my defense - he did say to gradually start incorporating fruits and vegetables back into my diet, so why not eat some strawberries in style?
*lekker = (Dutch) adv. deliciously, with wonderful taste or smell; adj. delicious, tasty
Sabbatical Spring, Sabbatical Summer
Many of you who know me know that I have been looking for a job for the last six months or so. Not just any job. I was looking for that vocation that would nourish my soul and intellect, allow me to share my gifts, and also provide for my physical/material needs. I have spent the last ten years working in whatever position I found myself, just to pay the bills. It was time to step aside from the path on which I'd been treading.
Sabbath, sabbatical, rest. That's what I needed, and I am so grateful to have been granted it. My wonderful husband supported my need to rest. All the years of unhappiness at work, the feeling that I had never reached my potential, the lack of respect...all of the things that can wear on one over the years...these were allowed to heal. The chipmunk in the morning, the chickadees in the afternoon, and the wind through the trees all day long became my main companions during the daytime. I breathed, stuck to an exercise program, ate well, and rested. My mind began to settle. Ah.
The first two months I busied myself on house projects: installed a new kitchen floor, painted every room, landscaped the yard. The next three months I decided it was time to really look for paid work, and I spent anywhere from two to seven hours a day on that effort. Frustrated, unhappy with what I found, wondering how long I could go without an income...all of these were at the forefront of my job search.
Then, one day about a month or so ago, I decided to really stop. I sat myself down and asked, "What is it you really want to do? Forget about the jobs that are out there...what do YOU want?" Now, I am the type of person described as a Scanner by Barbara Sher. This means that I am a seeker who tries many different things, and often has trouble settling on one because there are so many other exciting choices! "If I do THIS, then I won't be doing THAT!" What this also means is that I put a lot of pressure on situations to be perfect. Time to drop that mumbo jumbo. Back to the question I asked myself, "What is the essence of what you want?"
1. I like to mentor and help others. "But I don't want to be a counselor or therapist." Stop worrying about what you don't want!
2. I want a position that allows me to move within the community, rather than sit at a desk all day. "Those jobs don't pay much!" Breathe.
3. A position with respect, where I may use my skills and creativity to forge new directions. "That takes years...you'll have to do a job you don't like if you want to get to that point with any employer." Sigh.
4. I like the higher education environment. "But you don't have a graduate degree...all those jobs require graduate degrees and you can't afford to just go to school now." It's OK, keep going.
5. Maybe I'd like teaching adults. "Good luck with that...see #4." Just stop, already.
Great. I've outlined what I'm looking for, and quieted my inner critic. Breathe, enjoy the summer days on the deck, see friends, trust. That's the biggie...trust that it will be.
So, I trusted. And trusted. And then one day, I found a position that called to me. Keep trusting. "But they are requesting a Master's degree!" Trust, apply for the job, and trust some more. Long story short, yesterday I was awarded the position below...are you ready?
Director of Career Services for Globe University main duties
1. Mentor students as they search for jobs after completing their degrees.
2. Network with the business community by meeting with companies, attending functions, and hosting events, spending no more than 50% of time in the office.
3. As the school just opened, you will be in charge of setting the direction of the Career Services program at this location, answering only to the Director of the School.
4. Globe University has been around since the 1800s. Bachelors' degree is fine (I did get the job, you know) and guess what? You can get your Master's degree for free here as an employee.
5. Teach the capstone Professional Development 250 class to those about to graduate.
I really can't say much more, now, can I? Let me leave you with this quote, and encourage you all to stop, breathe, and listen to yourself. Your dreams are already reality...you just may not see it yet.
"If busyness can become a kind of violence, we do not have to stretch our perception very far to see that Sabbath time – effortless, nourishing rest – can invite a healing of this violence. When we consecrate a time to listen to the still, small voices, we remember the root of inner wisdom that makes work fruitful. We remember from where we are most deeply nourished, and see more clearly the shape and texture of the people and things before us."
— Wayne Muller (Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in Our Busy Lives)
Sabbath, sabbatical, rest. That's what I needed, and I am so grateful to have been granted it. My wonderful husband supported my need to rest. All the years of unhappiness at work, the feeling that I had never reached my potential, the lack of respect...all of the things that can wear on one over the years...these were allowed to heal. The chipmunk in the morning, the chickadees in the afternoon, and the wind through the trees all day long became my main companions during the daytime. I breathed, stuck to an exercise program, ate well, and rested. My mind began to settle. Ah.
The first two months I busied myself on house projects: installed a new kitchen floor, painted every room, landscaped the yard. The next three months I decided it was time to really look for paid work, and I spent anywhere from two to seven hours a day on that effort. Frustrated, unhappy with what I found, wondering how long I could go without an income...all of these were at the forefront of my job search.
Then, one day about a month or so ago, I decided to really stop. I sat myself down and asked, "What is it you really want to do? Forget about the jobs that are out there...what do YOU want?" Now, I am the type of person described as a Scanner by Barbara Sher. This means that I am a seeker who tries many different things, and often has trouble settling on one because there are so many other exciting choices! "If I do THIS, then I won't be doing THAT!" What this also means is that I put a lot of pressure on situations to be perfect. Time to drop that mumbo jumbo. Back to the question I asked myself, "What is the essence of what you want?"
1. I like to mentor and help others. "But I don't want to be a counselor or therapist." Stop worrying about what you don't want!
2. I want a position that allows me to move within the community, rather than sit at a desk all day. "Those jobs don't pay much!" Breathe.
3. A position with respect, where I may use my skills and creativity to forge new directions. "That takes years...you'll have to do a job you don't like if you want to get to that point with any employer." Sigh.
4. I like the higher education environment. "But you don't have a graduate degree...all those jobs require graduate degrees and you can't afford to just go to school now." It's OK, keep going.
5. Maybe I'd like teaching adults. "Good luck with that...see #4." Just stop, already.
Great. I've outlined what I'm looking for, and quieted my inner critic. Breathe, enjoy the summer days on the deck, see friends, trust. That's the biggie...trust that it will be.
So, I trusted. And trusted. And then one day, I found a position that called to me. Keep trusting. "But they are requesting a Master's degree!" Trust, apply for the job, and trust some more. Long story short, yesterday I was awarded the position below...are you ready?
Director of Career Services for Globe University main duties
1. Mentor students as they search for jobs after completing their degrees.
2. Network with the business community by meeting with companies, attending functions, and hosting events, spending no more than 50% of time in the office.
3. As the school just opened, you will be in charge of setting the direction of the Career Services program at this location, answering only to the Director of the School.
4. Globe University has been around since the 1800s. Bachelors' degree is fine (I did get the job, you know) and guess what? You can get your Master's degree for free here as an employee.
5. Teach the capstone Professional Development 250 class to those about to graduate.
I really can't say much more, now, can I? Let me leave you with this quote, and encourage you all to stop, breathe, and listen to yourself. Your dreams are already reality...you just may not see it yet.
"If busyness can become a kind of violence, we do not have to stretch our perception very far to see that Sabbath time – effortless, nourishing rest – can invite a healing of this violence. When we consecrate a time to listen to the still, small voices, we remember the root of inner wisdom that makes work fruitful. We remember from where we are most deeply nourished, and see more clearly the shape and texture of the people and things before us."
— Wayne Muller (Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in Our Busy Lives)
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Meet the New Member of Our Family
Please meet Mandie Kathryn Shewbridge... she is an eight pound one year old Chihuahua/Miniature Pinscher mix that we rescued from the Helping Paws Humane Society. She had been abused before and was fostered by a lovely couple who took great care of her for the last few months and we are very grateful to them. She is such a sweetheart and hardly makes any noise at all, she loves to cuddle and
Gallileo and Sherlock Holmes
I have just finished reading two biographies of Galileo. The first, Galileo by James Reston, was excellent and offered historical and scientific insight into the great man. The second book, Galileo's Daughter by Dava Sobel, focused more on his personal experiences, family, and friends. The real tragedy of the Galileo story, from a personal rather than scientific standpoint, is that he was accused of suspected heresy. Galileo was a man who devoutly believed in the Catholic Church. His two daughters were nuns, although mainly because they were illegitimate and thereby unable to marry. In particular, his daughter Suor Maria Celeste provided him with spiritual, intellectual, and moral support. His forced appearance before the Inquisition angered and saddened him. All along, he believed that he was supporting his faith while creating a new way of approaching science. The Inquisition begged to differ.
Interestingly enough, a friend recently posted a Sherlock Holmes quote on his Facebook page that brought to mind Galileo's struggle: "What you do in this world is a matter of no consequence; the question is, what can you make people believe that you have done."~Sherlock Holmes (A Study in Scarlet) Hm. Galileo suffered censure and house arrest for the rest of his life after the Inquisition decided he had erred. They didn't believe he intended anything other than shaking the foundation of the Church. Sherlock Holmes, another man with extraordinary intelligence and ego, agrees that how things look is more important than how things are.
But, wait. Does this mean we should go through life trying to make ourselves look like something we're not? Should we be pandering to the current mood (or mode) of the day rather than living authentically? What, exactly, are we supposed to do now?
There is no doubt that we will be misread, misunderstood, and possibly maligned during our brief time here on earth. We really have very little control over what people think about us, although most of us try to at least live in some sort of accord with others. If we constantly worry about how we are perceived, we become ineffective and inauthentic...and self-centered. It isn't easy, just being here. I believe that the best we can do is to try not to be jerks, try to help out, and be eager to learn.
We have a duty to try. Just try...to make life a little better for others, to be grateful, and to accept the lessons that present themselves to us daily.
The Dalai Lama, a favorite of mine for his gentle and practical wisdom, sums it up:
We can't be useful to ourselves unless we're useful to others. Whether we like it or not, we're all connected, and it is unthinkable to be happy all by oneself. Anyone concerned only by his own well-being will suffer eventually. Anyone concerned with the well-being of others takes care of himself without even thinking ...about it. Even if we decide to remain selfish, let us be intelligently selfish - let us help others.
So, there it is. Be happy by helping others be happy. It really does make the world a better place, and you won't have to worry about how you look.
Interestingly enough, a friend recently posted a Sherlock Holmes quote on his Facebook page that brought to mind Galileo's struggle: "What you do in this world is a matter of no consequence; the question is, what can you make people believe that you have done."~Sherlock Holmes (A Study in Scarlet) Hm. Galileo suffered censure and house arrest for the rest of his life after the Inquisition decided he had erred. They didn't believe he intended anything other than shaking the foundation of the Church. Sherlock Holmes, another man with extraordinary intelligence and ego, agrees that how things look is more important than how things are.
But, wait. Does this mean we should go through life trying to make ourselves look like something we're not? Should we be pandering to the current mood (or mode) of the day rather than living authentically? What, exactly, are we supposed to do now?
There is no doubt that we will be misread, misunderstood, and possibly maligned during our brief time here on earth. We really have very little control over what people think about us, although most of us try to at least live in some sort of accord with others. If we constantly worry about how we are perceived, we become ineffective and inauthentic...and self-centered. It isn't easy, just being here. I believe that the best we can do is to try not to be jerks, try to help out, and be eager to learn.
We have a duty to try. Just try...to make life a little better for others, to be grateful, and to accept the lessons that present themselves to us daily.
We can't be useful to ourselves unless we're useful to others. Whether we like it or not, we're all connected, and it is unthinkable to be happy all by oneself. Anyone concerned only by his own well-being will suffer eventually. Anyone concerned with the well-being of others takes care of himself without even thinking ...about it. Even if we decide to remain selfish, let us be intelligently selfish - let us help others.
So, there it is. Be happy by helping others be happy. It really does make the world a better place, and you won't have to worry about how you look.
Packing Progress: Wound Care
I'm home from vacation, and tomorrow we see Dr. Nash. Hopefully, he will tell us that my wound is healed enough to stop packing.
Wound Care 101
To recap: the incision from my laparoscipic right hemicolectomy got infected, so Dr. Nash had to re-open the wound. An open wound needs to be kept open, otherwise the top layers will heal over before the rest of the wound can close - creating a little pocket just ripe for infections.
In order to allow the wound to heal in layers, from the bottom up, you keep it open by packing it with sterile gauze. "Packing" a wound is exactly what it sounds like - you just shove as much gauze into the wound as will fit. This packing helps to fill open space, maintain a warm moist environment, and absorb drainage.
How much packing do you use? That depends on how deep the wound is. Initially, my wound took about 2 feet of packing (picture taken on July 30, 2010).
As the wound healed, it became more shallow and the amount of packing we had to use got less and less. Also, we did everything to accelerate the healing process, including changing the packing twice a day and increasing my protein intake.
Today, less than a month after it was re-opened, we can hardly fit more than a couple of inches of packing into the wound. The body's ability to heal is nothing short of miraculous, and I am grateful that we are almost over this little bump on the road to recovery.
For More HELP in wound care: visit the WOCN.org website.
Founded in 1968, the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) is a professional, international nursing society of more than 4,600 healthcare professionals who are experts in the care of patients with wound, ostomy and incontinence.
Wound Care 101
To recap: the incision from my laparoscipic right hemicolectomy got infected, so Dr. Nash had to re-open the wound. An open wound needs to be kept open, otherwise the top layers will heal over before the rest of the wound can close - creating a little pocket just ripe for infections.
In order to allow the wound to heal in layers, from the bottom up, you keep it open by packing it with sterile gauze. "Packing" a wound is exactly what it sounds like - you just shove as much gauze into the wound as will fit. This packing helps to fill open space, maintain a warm moist environment, and absorb drainage.
How much packing do you use? That depends on how deep the wound is. Initially, my wound took about 2 feet of packing (picture taken on July 30, 2010).
As the wound healed, it became more shallow and the amount of packing we had to use got less and less. Also, we did everything to accelerate the healing process, including changing the packing twice a day and increasing my protein intake.
Today, less than a month after it was re-opened, we can hardly fit more than a couple of inches of packing into the wound. The body's ability to heal is nothing short of miraculous, and I am grateful that we are almost over this little bump on the road to recovery.
For More HELP in wound care: visit the WOCN.org website.
Founded in 1968, the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) is a professional, international nursing society of more than 4,600 healthcare professionals who are experts in the care of patients with wound, ostomy and incontinence.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Little Bro
Although not beer related, I couldn't help but post my brother's recent interview on you tube:
Last season, in his first year as head varsity football coach, Jim led the Century Knights to a county championship. If you live in Maryland and want to see some good high school football, head up to Carroll County on a Friday night.
I can't help but be proud.
Good luck this season Century Knights!
-HolzBrew
Last season, in his first year as head varsity football coach, Jim led the Century Knights to a county championship. If you live in Maryland and want to see some good high school football, head up to Carroll County on a Friday night.
I can't help but be proud.
Good luck this season Century Knights!
-HolzBrew
10 a.m. is chipmunk time
I have a sassy chipmunk. He lives under my front walk. Each morning at 10 a.m. he hops up on the decorative driftwood on my stoop and chirps. And chirps. For a good five minutes straight, he will tell his story to the world. Here is a photo of him (taken through the window screen, so a little hard to see).
Is he happy? Angry? Just making noise? What?
This reminds me of my favorite episode of the old TV show Northern Exposure. The doctor's mother comes to visit, and she is a non-stop talker. Talk, talk, talk. The Inuit character Marilyn likens her to Ukatangi before he became the eagle (see below). Then, one day, she hikes to the top of a cliff. Busy watching the eagles that she loves as they soar, she trips and falls. Instead of plummeting to injury and death, however, she floats to the ground unharmed. She becomes quiet and reflective, in stark contrast to how she was before.
Maybe we can all learn from this. How many times do we allow ourselves to be caught up in our own agendas, our schedules, our tasks? Do we ever stop to see how we fit into the whole? In the Oneida world view the eagle has holistic vision. He sees the whole, the entirety of the world, unlike the hawk who sees only his target. I believe that many of our societal ills result from a loss of perspective. Our worries and cares fill our minds, leaving little room for wonder and understanding. How much more peace would we experience if we only stepped back and saw the world from the eagle's eyes? Let's find out.
My pledge for today: be the eagle, not the hawk. Enjoy the story and music below, friends, and be the eagle if only for a day!
http://en.kendincos.net/video-jftvflrn-ukatangi-the-talker-original-song.html
The eagle wasn’t always the eagle. The eagle, before he became the eagle, was Ukatangi, the talker.
Ukatangi talked and talked. He talked so much, he could only hear himself. Not the river, not the wind, not even the wolf.
The raven came and said, “The wolf is hungry. If you stop talking, you will hear him. The wind, too. And when you hear the wind, you will fly.”
So Ukatangi stopped talking, and soon heard the wind rushing by. In the quiet, he could hear the directions of its currents, swiftly lifting and falling. The music of the wind changed Ukatangi’s nature, and he became the eagle.
The eagle soared, and its flight said all it needed to say.
This reminds me of my favorite episode of the old TV show Northern Exposure. The doctor's mother comes to visit, and she is a non-stop talker. Talk, talk, talk. The Inuit character Marilyn likens her to Ukatangi before he became the eagle (see below). Then, one day, she hikes to the top of a cliff. Busy watching the eagles that she loves as they soar, she trips and falls. Instead of plummeting to injury and death, however, she floats to the ground unharmed. She becomes quiet and reflective, in stark contrast to how she was before.
Maybe we can all learn from this. How many times do we allow ourselves to be caught up in our own agendas, our schedules, our tasks? Do we ever stop to see how we fit into the whole? In the Oneida world view the eagle has holistic vision. He sees the whole, the entirety of the world, unlike the hawk who sees only his target. I believe that many of our societal ills result from a loss of perspective. Our worries and cares fill our minds, leaving little room for wonder and understanding. How much more peace would we experience if we only stepped back and saw the world from the eagle's eyes? Let's find out.
My pledge for today: be the eagle, not the hawk. Enjoy the story and music below, friends, and be the eagle if only for a day!
http://en.kendincos.net/video-jftvflrn-ukatangi-the-talker-original-song.html
Ukatangi
The eagle wasn’t always the eagle. The eagle, before he became the eagle, was Ukatangi, the talker.
Ukatangi talked and talked. He talked so much, he could only hear himself. Not the river, not the wind, not even the wolf.
The raven came and said, “The wolf is hungry. If you stop talking, you will hear him. The wind, too. And when you hear the wind, you will fly.”
So Ukatangi stopped talking, and soon heard the wind rushing by. In the quiet, he could hear the directions of its currents, swiftly lifting and falling. The music of the wind changed Ukatangi’s nature, and he became the eagle.
The eagle soared, and its flight said all it needed to say.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Happy National Waffle Day
HAPPY NATIONAL WAFFLE DAY (not to be confused with International Waffle Day on March 25th)
According to Mr.Breakfast.com:
National Waffle Day (August 24) is the anniversary of the first U.S. patent for a waffle iron. Cornelius Swarthout of Troy, New York received his patent for a "device to bake waffles" in 1869. His early waffle iron was used in conjunction with coal stoves, consisted of a
Studious Yorkie
This is Mumbo, the biggest of the Yorkies at our house right now. He is 2 years old and is the one that watches over the little ones, he makes sure that they are all OK whenever he hears them bark, whine or make any kind of noise. He is such a sweetie to me, he loves to cuddle with me and loves to have his belly scratched. I was trying to read the other day during some down time while we were
What I've Been Dealing With For a Month.....
{Image Credit}
Ok, not quite ALL month, Nano and Lady Mia are both house broken, but the three dogs that we are dog sitting, not so much, and I am trying to teach them to go outside or at least on the puppy pads. I am having some success, but they are still having some accidents around the house. Poor Bill has washed the carpet four times already, he is such a great guy! But each time they
Ok, not quite ALL month, Nano and Lady Mia are both house broken, but the three dogs that we are dog sitting, not so much, and I am trying to teach them to go outside or at least on the puppy pads. I am having some success, but they are still having some accidents around the house. Poor Bill has washed the carpet four times already, he is such a great guy! But each time they
Chickadee Karma
Some days the chickadees just seem happier than others. Now, don't get me wrong...chickadees live up to their reputation as being among the cheeriest of creatures. It just seems that today they are outdoing themselves. A little on the ADD side, they are my favorite little friends just now. Tree branch...deck railing...tree branch...deck floor...table...chair...deck rail...and then, finally, they pop over to the "white trash birdbath" on my deck.
The WTBB is a once-beautiful lemon verbena given to me by a friend. Let's just say that the Ayn Rand school of plant care leaves something to be desired. I even wrapped Tibetan prayer flags through its branches, hoping that any past life evils the plant had incurred to arrive at its present state would be mitigated. Not so good. So, onto the deck it went in a last-ditch effort to bring it back to life. Nada. Well, it is sort of big and heavy, so I didn't get around to moving it. Heavy rains fully saturated the soil so now it is essentially a bunch of dead branches in a giant flooded pot, garnished with colorful prayer flags, quite torn and weathered.
But, perhaps, is there hope for the WTBB? A saving grace? Back to the chickadees. They love the WTBB. Hopping up and down the branches, sipping water from the flooded pot, cheerfully chirping away...every day they enjoy the sad karmic state of the verbena. It is my firm belief that the chickadees are honoring the plant's life in its death. Has the verbena gone on to be reincarnated as a lush, thriving jungle plant in Costa Rica? Or perhaps become a well-pruned rose? Who can truly say?
One thing I know for certain: chickadees + WTBB + summer mornings = the good life.
The WTBB is a once-beautiful lemon verbena given to me by a friend. Let's just say that the Ayn Rand school of plant care leaves something to be desired. I even wrapped Tibetan prayer flags through its branches, hoping that any past life evils the plant had incurred to arrive at its present state would be mitigated. Not so good. So, onto the deck it went in a last-ditch effort to bring it back to life. Nada. Well, it is sort of big and heavy, so I didn't get around to moving it. Heavy rains fully saturated the soil so now it is essentially a bunch of dead branches in a giant flooded pot, garnished with colorful prayer flags, quite torn and weathered.
But, perhaps, is there hope for the WTBB? A saving grace? Back to the chickadees. They love the WTBB. Hopping up and down the branches, sipping water from the flooded pot, cheerfully chirping away...every day they enjoy the sad karmic state of the verbena. It is my firm belief that the chickadees are honoring the plant's life in its death. Has the verbena gone on to be reincarnated as a lush, thriving jungle plant in Costa Rica? Or perhaps become a well-pruned rose? Who can truly say?
One thing I know for certain: chickadees + WTBB + summer mornings = the good life.
Welcome!
Welcome to the blog that explores all the best, little things in life. A small slice of life as we know it.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
The difference between a Stout and a Porter
I get asked this question all of the time and I'm not quite sure there is a really good answer. What's the difference between a Stout and a Porter?
It is an understandable question. They look more or less the same, the strength (ABV) is about the same, and gosh darn it if the flavor profiles aren't too terribly different. Every year inevitably a brewer at the Great American Beer Fest, wins a medal in one of the Stout categories and the brewer themselves describe the beer as a porter. See category 72: American Stout from last year's winner list, Dead Reckoning (great beer, by the way) by Troegs Brewing in Harrisburg won a silver medal. Check out the Troegs website, they call this beer a porter. In spite of this phenomenon, Stout and Porter are classified as two separate animals in the world of beer.
First, there are several sub categories of each style, stout has the following: dry stout, sweet (or milk) stout, oatmeal stout, foreign export stout, russian imperial stout, and american stout. The porter sub categories are as follows: brown (or english) porter, robust porter, and baltic porter.
I'm going to focus on american stout and robust porter. The following descriptions are from the BJCP guidelines. Specifically, the flavor and vital stats sections of robust porter:
"Moderately strong malt flavor usually features a lightly burnt, black malt character (and sometimes chocolate and/or coffee flavors) with a bit of roasty dryness in the finish. Overall flavor may finish from dry to medium-sweet, depending on grist composition, hop bittering level, and attenuation. May have a sharp character from dark roasted grains, although should not be overly acrid, burnt or harsh. Medium to high bitterness, which can be accentuated by the roasted malt. Hop flavor can vary from low to moderately high (US or UK varieties, typically), and balances the roasted malt flavors. Diacetyl low to none. Fruity esters moderate to none.
Vital Statistics: OG: 1.048 – 1.065
IBUs: 25 – 50 FG: 1.012 – 1.016
SRM: 22 – 35 ABV: 4.8 – 6.5%"
And from the flavor and vital stats sections of american stout:
"Moderate to very high roasted malt flavors, often tasting of coffee, roasted coffee beans, dark or bittersweet chocolate. May have a slightly burnt coffee ground flavor, but this character should not be prominent if present. Low to medium malt sweetness, often with rich chocolate or caramel flavors. Medium to high bitterness. Hop flavor can be low to high, and generally reflects citrusy or resiny American varieties. Light esters may be present but are not required. Medium to dry finish, occasionally with a light burnt quality. Alcohol flavors can be present up to medium levels, but smooth. No diacetyl.
Vital Statistics: OG: 1.050 – 1.075
IBUs: 35 – 75 FG: 1.010 – 1.022
SRM: 30 – 40 ABV: 5 – 7%"
Pretty similar, no? The only differences are that american stouts are "on average" slightly hoppier and slightly darker in color. Conventional brewing wisdom says that porters are brewed with Black patent malt and Stouts are brewed with roasted barley, but I've seen a study or two that shows only homebrewers stick to this convention, where as, commercial brewers use both malts in formulating their stouts and porters (I wish I could find that study, but alas I have not been able to).
This issue is constantly up for debate, simply use the search function at beeradvocate.com and you'll find many threads discussing this issue: see generally this post.
The history of both styles is very intertwined, for the cliff notes check out the wiki page for stout.
The only observation that I can lend after trying dozens of brews from each style, is that "on average" porters are a little smokier and generally are more likely to have that "burnt" characteristic. Stouts are more likely to have that coffee and dark chocolate flavor. BUT that is a very broad, "on average" observation.
Either way, fall is around the corner and nothing is better on a cool fall afternoon than a fresh stout or porter.
Keep it dark and roasty,
HolzBrew
Saturday, August 21, 2010
WooHoo!! First Event for Brandcation: Adventures in Orlando Announced
We are all SO excited to hear that our first event is being held at Florida EcoSafaris... and thanks to them, it will be at no cost to any of us attending - thank you very much! They have a 4700 acre eco-ranch and wildlife conservation area preserved just as nature intended. This beautiful site boasts 9 distinct Florida ecosystems and an endless array of natural flora and fauna including
What an Incredibly Busy Week
Image Credit
This past week, on top of dog-sitting the three dogs for my girlfriend, we have been doing a favor for another friend who owns a dry cleaners in town. Bill used to work there two years ago and the woman who took over when he re-retired (TeeHee) wanted to go on vacation and there was no one to cover for her, so they called Bill to see if he would work there for the week. So we
This past week, on top of dog-sitting the three dogs for my girlfriend, we have been doing a favor for another friend who owns a dry cleaners in town. Bill used to work there two years ago and the woman who took over when he re-retired (TeeHee) wanted to go on vacation and there was no one to cover for her, so they called Bill to see if he would work there for the week. So we
Friday, August 20, 2010
Left Hand Cask Ale Night @ Rueben's Burger Bistro
Left Hand Cask Ale Night
Thursday, August 26th, 2010
7pm
Rueben’s Burger Bistro
1800 Broadway St. (Broadway & Walnut)
Boulder, CO
303.443.5000
Rueben’s Burger Bistro opened a couple of months back and what a great casual place to go for gourmet burgers, mussels, Belgian and local craft beer! The mallet wielded by Bubba Love of Left Hand will drop at 7pm on the appointed evening. As usual with the cask pins there are only about 40 pints, so don’t be late. Come grab a burger and a pint of cask Jackman’s and enjoy!
Left Hand Cask Ale Night @ Rueben's Burger Bistro
Left Hand Cask Ale Night
Thursday, August 26th, 2010
7pm
Rueben’s Burger Bistro
1800 Broadway St. (Broadway & Walnut)
Boulder, CO
303.443.5000
Rueben’s Burger Bistro opened a couple of months back and what a great casual place to go for gourmet burgers, mussels, Belgian and local craft beer! The mallet wielded by Bubba Love of Left Hand will drop at 7pm on the appointed evening. As usual with the cask pins there are only about 40 pints, so don’t be late. Come grab a burger and a pint of cask Jackman’s and enjoy!
assignments..classes..presentations..leisure..
heyya readers..here i am again..sorry for not updating for the past few days..i'm so damn busy with classes, assignments and presentation preparations..luckily i have finished most of them but still i have more awaiting..BUT....besides of filling my days with those tasks..i still spent time relaxing my mind..i don't want some of my wires in my head being cut off..haha..i went to mines last
Thursday, August 19, 2010
I'm back!
Yup - I'm married, so I am back to my American Wolpertinger blogging life - as a Mrs!
I have lots to write about, and I am so excited to have room in my life now to focus on other aspects than weddings - although I really enjoyed it while it lasted. By the way, the wedding was GREAT. Now here's a little photo from the day, and I will be back soon with Munich Expat adventures and other tales of a patchwork existence - now a wedded one!
I have lots to write about, and I am so excited to have room in my life now to focus on other aspects than weddings - although I really enjoyed it while it lasted. By the way, the wedding was GREAT. Now here's a little photo from the day, and I will be back soon with Munich Expat adventures and other tales of a patchwork existence - now a wedded one!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Vacation from Cancer: Sea Isle City
In the past, Gary and I have shared a beachfront weekly rental in Sea Isle City, NJ with some of our closest friends. We were debating whether I'd be up to it or not this year, but ultimately decided that we needed to get away before we both went back to teaching in September.
We arrived Saturday, and it's been wonderfully relaxing for both of us. Overall, I've done really well - minus some cramping and bleeding around my wound.
Today was our first rainy day, so I took the opportunity to contribute to Varian's "Dear Cancer" Letter-Writing Campaign.
Basically, all you have to do is write a letter to cancer and post it at: www.varian.com/dearcancer/create.com. Varian will contribute $50 to the American Cancer Society for every letter that you post. My letter (with trip details) appears below. It's a little corny - but for a good cause.
Dear Cancer,
Maybe you've been wondering where I've been? I'm on vacation. Less than a month ago, you forced me to have surgery; but now look at me!
I'm sitting on our porch in Sea Isle City, watching the ocean waves gently peel into foamy white lines, while hordes of mid-August sun worshipers (whose deep tans would make the Tropicana girl envious) wander amongst clumps of beach umbrellas, which - when opened - mimic a schizophrenically colored, bizarrely vibrant, giant flower garden in full bloom.
Down here, there are no doctors or needles, no injections or IVs, only the smiles of my friends and the occasional four-person yellow surrey peddling down the promenade. I eat whatever I want (she-crab soup, homemade peach cobbler, half a cheese steak sandwich ... not all at once of course) and walk wherever I want (even down to the water's edge). This proves that your powers of control are waning.
In fact, I'm having such a good time that I've decided to extend my vacation - from you - permanently. I hope to never see you again.
Marlena J.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Sunday, August 15, 2010
The End of Summer 2010
Well folks it's over. I hope you enjoyed it while it lasted. Summer 2010 is officially coming to an end. How can I make such a wild proclamation? First, experience is on my side, I've accurately announced the end of summer 2008 and 2009. Upon checking my records it looks like summer 2009 ended on August 7th at 11:05 pm. This year summer lasted a little longer. What's the deciding factor in determining the end of the summer? Temperature or the lack of summer thunderstorms? Clearly not the case here. Nope, it's the the release of Oktoberfest brews, officially flooding the shelves at your favorite local DC-area beer store.
I've had the opportunity to try the Weihenstephaner and (my long time favorite) Left Hand Oktoberfests and I haven't been disappointed. Nothing says football season is right around the corner than Oktoberfest. Thank God too. I can't take anymore baseball. Living in this corridor of baseball mediocrity (see generally, Orioles and Nationals win-loss records for the last 5 years) wears on you and causes you to become jaded towards the entire sport.
I'll attempt a decent run down of this year's 'fest beers after I've had a few more.
In the world of homebrew I whipped up a batch of Strong Stout 2 weeks ago in anticipation of football season. My inspiration was the XXXXX Stout by Pike Brewing out of Seattle. This is the first time I've used a pacific NW yeast strain, so I'm curious to see how it turns out. Also, I'm kicking around a recipe in my head for a strong Belgian dark ale. Hopefully, I'll have time next weekend to brew it up.
Prosit!
Holzbrew
Friday, August 13, 2010
Cancer's Price Tag
Semi-Private Room at Sloan-Kettering1275 York Avenue (Manhattan)
6 days @ $3,650 per day = $21,900 total
6 days @ $3,650 per day = $21,900 total
So far, I've written about the physical, psychological and spiritual toll of cancer; but how much does cancer cost in hard dollars and cents? From my first MRI on February 17, 2010 thru my second surgery on July 19, 2010, my doctors' bills and medical tests totaled a whopping $119,406.77 . The most expensive item, of course, was the right hemicolectomy, which cost $44,119.76 for the surgery and six-day hospital stay at Sloan-Kettering (worth every penny). Out of curiosity, I looked up what a luxury hotel room in Manhattan would cost for six days; and found out it was much, much cheaper:
The Atrium Suite at The London Hotel in NYC151 West 54th Street (Manhattan)
6 days @ $1,234 per day = $7,404 total
This just highlights the staggering cost of good medical care. According to Time Magazine, family health insurance premiums have risen over 131% since 1999, and Kaiser currently estimates that health care premiums for an average family cost in excess of $13,000 a year.
I'm only 36-years old. I regularly exercise and maintain a healthy weight; I don't smoke, drink, or do recreational drugs of any kind. If I was a betting man (which I'm not - don't gamble either), I probably wouldn't spend the money to become self-insured if my employer didn't provide health care.
This is the position many Americans find themselves in - wondering whether or not to spin the roulette wheel and see if they can scrape by without coverage. In 2009, it's estimated that 46.3 million Americans did not have any health insurance, and nearly 60 million, or one in five, had gaps in their coverage over the course of the year (CDC June Report, 2010).
Now I'm not going to preach politics, or debate the merits of a government sponsored universal health care system. I'll simply say this - that I'm one of the lucky ones with good coverage, and consequently will only have to pay a few hundred dollars of the $119,406.77 total bill out of my own pocket. And as the bills keep rolling in - for follow-up visits, in-home nursing, and CT scans - I realize how lucky I am that I can make decisions based on what's best for my health instead of on what I can afford.
Gandhi once said "the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its most vulnerable are treated." The thing that really bothers me is that somehow the interests of the insurance companies have been placed above the interests of some of our most vulnerable citizens: the seriously ill.
Under my plan, out of the $119,406.77 billed, my insurance company only had to pay $58,581.81. That means that a company (whose entire existence is dependent upon generating profit) was essentially charged $60,824.96 less than I was, for lifesaving care. That just doesn't seem right. I don't blame the politicians, or the doctors, or the pharmaceutical companies; I blame us - a nation of some of the most creative and resourceful minds in the world - for not coming up with a solution. Doctors deserve to be paid, and patients deserve to have access to care. We can do better than this.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Please Wish My Friend Maria a Very Happy Birthday
I have a favor to ask of you, my dear friends... would you be so kind as to head on over to Maria's Space to wish my good friend Maria a very happy birthday. Maria is an extremely wonderful wife, mother, friend and artist - she has a jewelry shop on Etsy called Street Angel {check out her earrings, I love all of them}.
Maria has had some health problems lately, but has managed to keep her blog
Brandcation Event: Global Getaway Nov 5th-7th!
I am so excited to be going to the Brandcation Event put on by Kim and Trisha of MomDot. There are going to be no formal classes at this event, instead it will be "real life conversation in an environment conducive to learning and growing" {from the MomDot blog}. I am so looking forward to meeting all of these wonderful bloggers and learning so many new and exciting things; plus, the event is
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Note to Self...
If children have the ability to ignore all odds and percentages, then maybe we can all learn from them. When you think about it, what other choice is there but to hope? We have two options, medically and emotionally: give up, or fight like hell. ~Lance Armstrong
I am fighting against becoming someone I'm not - someone who is afraid that when they wake up, there will be a new hurt to deal with; someone who doesn't want to leave the house for fear that they will become sick in public; someone who scrutinizes every twinge and pain for a sign that something is wrong.
Cancer is a betrayal by our bodies - and carcinoid cancer is long-term betrayal. Although carcinoid malignancy rates are widely debated in the medical community, many estimate that it takes on average 3-5 years for a neuroendocrine tumor to reach 2cm. My tumor was 3cm, so it must have eluded detection for years - maybe even a decade. How can I trust my body anymore to, as Spike Lee would say, "do the right thing"? I guess the answer is, I can't - none of us can. All we can do is try our best at prevention and healthy living, and hope that the doctors and medical field continue to make advances in early detection and treatment.
However, while I may have limited control over my physical well-being, I have complete control over my psychological and spiritual well-being. I truly believe that happiness is a choice, and not something that just happens to us. I can choose to face the day with fear or with fervor; with weakness or with strength. Lately, I've let my emotions drift from the safety and joy of the "now" to unfounded future anxieties and scary memories of the past. Today, I'm going to have ice-cream and go for a walk, and smile because I know that simply breathing means - anything is possible.
Monday, August 9, 2010
How we Accomplish Bathtime at Our House
First you have to get everybody nekked, take out the girls bows and ponytails, and line them all up on the counter while the tub is filling with water.
Then you put all five of them in the tub and try to keep them in there.....
That generally doesn't work, so mommy ends up getting in the tub with them.
Everyone gets scrubbed up and then conditioned with a special shampoo and conditioner
Saturday, August 7, 2010
My Lovable Hubby Bought Me a Present
I have been trying to win a Keurig Coffee maker for MONTHS - I have been entering every giveaway on every blog I have seen. I have even enlisted the help of my friends... thank you so much Barb (@winterbabe98) for all your emails, tweets and IMs letting me know every time you saw someone giving away one - YOU ROCK!!
Well, my wonderful husband, Bill knew how much I wanted one and saw a terrific
Friday, August 6, 2010
Keep On Keeping On
The toilet. It is the one place that every single person on the planet must visit several times a day, and the one place that is never spoken about in polite company. In fact, we are so embarrassed by our natural need to eliminate waste from our system, that we have invented "code names" for the places where we keep toilets (washroom, loo, bathroom, powder room, water closet, little girl's or little boy's room, restroom), and use fans, sprays, and scented candles to mask any evidence of us having been there. In fact, some public toilets are now automated to flush for you, so that you can escape from your up-right coffin sized cubicle with less trauma.
Public toilets. I remember one of the most surprising aspects of volunteering in New Orleans right after Hurricane Katrina was the port-o-potties. Without running water, whole parts of the city were forced to use these temporary outdoor toilets, perched on every corner, which became so full that people began putting clothes and rags on top of the overflowing piles of excrement to avoid having to come in contact with feces - creating this weird, awful layered monstrosity. There was a lot about New Orleans that was crazy to comprehend during that time, and such a simple dignity that most of us take for granted was just one of the many hardships that resilient city faced.
Similarly, in the world of cancers involving the digestive system, the toilet is no longer a quiet, private and dignified place. Whether or not you are peeing, farting or pooping is the topic of conversation with every doctor or nurse who you come into contact with. And if that weren't embarrassing enough, you actually have stuff to talk about. For example, prior to surgery (and certain procedures), you are forced to gag down glass after glass of a mixture best described as salty mucus to "empty your bowels" - violently. Prior to office visits, you sometimes need to use a Fleet enema - so you learn to buy the Fleet two-pack to avoid multiple trips to the pharmacy, since the cashier always tries just a little too hard to look nonchalant while ringing you up. In the hospital, if you can't urinate, you get a tube shoved up you. It's not a fun world, and sort of like the port-o-potties of New Orleans, it's an aspect of cancer that rarely makes front page news.
For me, just when things were starting to work as they should, "in the toilet", I woke up yesterday with a horrible UTI (urinary track infection). Truth be told, it's actually the second UTI I've gotten since I left the hospital, and I'm more than just a little annoyed. The first infection (July 31) I was able to treat with a gallon of cranberry juice; this time - cranberry juice wasn't working, so I had to call Dr. Nash, again.
As I dialed his office's number, I began to feel like "that patient" - the one who always is complaining or has a problem; but the on-call nurse was as nice as pie, and faxed in an order to the local lab, where unfortunately Gary and I spent our Friday afternoon. Even though the official lab results won't be in until Monday, Dr. Nash called in a prescription antibiotic to start immediately, which personally I'm very grateful for. I picked up some AZO and the prescription, and after whining (a lot) to Gary, I finally fell asleep.
I know that on the grand scale of things, this latest minor setback is a blip. Just like there were much worse realities in New Orleans than the toilets (ninth ward, exploitation of illegal workers, lost court records, lost hope), there are much worse realities in battling cancer than a UTI; but it's these little indignities that begin to drain your resolve. Someone once wrote: "anyone can survive a crisis; it's the day to day living that gets us down". There is some truth in that - after the "get well" bouquets have wilted, and the mail returns to the normal bills and super savers instead of colorful envelopes from well wishers, there is the everyday living to be done. So that's what I'm doing now - trying to "keep on keeping on" - with Jackie -O in mind.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Look What I've Got.....
I'd like to thank my good friend Erin from Slice o' Heaven for so generously offering to help me with my very own custom signature for my blog. She made this wonderful graphic for me today for which I am eternally grateful. I have met some of the BEST people while blogging and am awed by the generosity and love that has been shown to me and my family over and over again.
Please head on over
My Emails Have Disappeared... AGH!!!
I have NO idea what happened and I have no idea how to fix it, but I had fallen asleep around 5:30pm today {courtesy of some Yorkies waking me up at 2:15, 4:38 and 6:37 this morning} and woke up around 7:00 and started to make dinner. Bill asked me what happened to all my emails, I must have been working really hard this afternoon. When I asked him how many I had, he said 22, which I knew was
Dr. Appointment and Pierogies
My Post-Appointment Lunch in the East VillageVeselka
144 2nd Ave NYC
After my appointment, we went to our favorite Ukrainian diner for lunch: Veselka. If you've never been to Veselka - GO! The food is amazing. So, while we enjoyed our usual meals (Gary: stuffed cabbage vege combo; me: pierogies), we reviewed what we learned today from the nutritionist / nurse, Rachael (another nurse - whom we absolutely adore) and Dr. Nash.
1. Dr. Nash never got a copy of the pathology on the three small polyps that were removed by Dr. Maloney during my colonoscopy - he will follow up this week. Most likely, if I didn't hear anything, the pathology came back clear. Interestingly, I found out that the polyps were not in the part of my colon that was removed during surgery.
2. The most likely place for the carcinoid cancer to reoccur is in the lymph nodes or liver.
3. The best screening method for carcinoid tumors is regular CT scans; blood markers are too inconsistent for any meaningful results, and CT scans have gotten so good that they are now considered superior to octreoscans.
4. Some of the medical literature suggests a tenuous connection between gastrointestinal carcinoid tumors and an increased risk for other types of cancers, such as colon cancer; because of this, a colonoscopy should be preformed every three years instead of every five.
5. I should finish the entire 30-day supply of Pantoprazole (reduces stomach acid, thereby decreasing the risk of a stress ulcer) and follow up with my primary care doctor if I experience any reflux after I stop the medication.
6. I can take nausea medication for as long as I need to. The medication that works best for me is Ondansetron 4mg (Zofran), which dissolves under your tongue. I have also tried Metoclopramide 10 mg (Reglan) with minimum success. There doesn't seem to be any issues with safety - both are good for long-term use and have few side effects, it's just a matter of which one works. (Fun Fact: Reglan can also be used to treat hiccups.)
7. I can slowly introduce a few fibrous foods into my diet, like smooth peanut butter or a small salad, and adjust my Colace (100 mg up to 3x a day) accordingly. It is very important that I eat protein, which will help speed the healing process for my wound. In this regard, I confirmed that I CAN EAT SUSHI (even the seaweed)! YES!
8. Since I am off the prescription pain meds (as of Tuesday), I can test whether or not I'm able to drive by getting into the car and pushing down as hard as I can on the breaks - if it hurts, I can't drive and vice-versa.
Just a note on pain meds - there are different options out there, and in connection with my past two surgeries I have tried: Hydromorphone 2mg, Vicodin 5/500 mg, and Percocet 5/325 mg. Out of these three, the only one that works for me is Hydromorphone (Vicodin does not kill the pain and Percocet just makes me loopy). Also, it didn't take me that long to switch from Hydromorphone over to Advil for the pain (I averaged 4-5 pills a day right after surgery, and decreased the amount by one pill every three days, so I only had to be on the "heavy duty" stuff for 9 days following discharge).
9. There is no problem with Gary and I going to the beach as long as I only go in the water for a short period of time (10-15 min) and immediately rinse off and repack the wound when I get out.
10. Since nearly all exercise involves your core muscles, I should wait about 8 weeks before resuming any exercise routine.
Overall, everything was good news at the appointment, and it feels like I'm slowly getting back to my old self.
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