A Summer (Year) of Firsts

Yesterday I managed a few minutes of quiet time.  In those minutes, I began thinking of all the things I have done and accomplished (so far) this summer and also this year. 

Reflection is probably one of my greatest skills, actually.  When I start to feel like some boring housewife and mom or I think.... gosh what did I really do today, this week, this month even?  Well that is when I pull out my mental list and start the bullet points.   When I can visibly see my list of things I've managed to do, I don't get sucked into a vortex of despair.  I realize that I do a lot and achieve a lot.  I do have a life! 

So here's my list of success and a few of the worldly things I've done this summer and this entire year (which isn't even over yet)!  



1.  I (and Vivian too of course) touched a 250 pound tortoise at the zoo for the very FIRST time.

Why did I just start singing Madonna's "Like A Virigin" after I typed that.... hahahaha! 




2.  I made and ate brownies with spinach baked in them for the FIRST time ever.  I even liked them. 

No, I'm not turning into Olive Oil nor am I making Kirk parade around like Popeye either!



3.  I had my very FIRST organ removed  from my body (my gallbladder).  And I learned a few things about pain medicine as a result from that experience. 

Next time, I'm just taking extra-strength tylenol.  Giving myself an enema was not fun!



4.  I enjoyed putting my feet in the sands of a beach for the FIRST time in a very long time.

Vivian seemed to like the beach too.  Let's hope she doesn't try to recreate scenes from Baywatch though.



5.  This was the FIRST whole summer I've had the chance to do nearly whatever I wanted since I was 16 years old.

The difference is that I don't have a boyfriend, a stack of music CD's and no responsibilities.  I have a husband and daughter to feed, a house to clean and a few minutes of music time on my Zune player if I'm lucky.


6.  This is the FIRST summer (and even year) in over a decade that I've read so many books and visited the library more than once a month.  And I'm really enjoying this newfound love for reading! 

I bet I could win that "Super Reader Award" this summer just like I did in the fifth grade!


7. This is also the FIRST time I've had a tan in over a decade too.

I hope living in Florida will not cause me to obtain skin cancer or result in me looking like an Oompa Loompa!

8.  This is the FIRST time I've been able to fit into size six clothing (and even some fours) in over five years!!

I still can't believe I've lost twenty pounds in six months time - that I made a challenge for myself and I worked hard to stick with it!


9. This is the FIRST year that I've really learned to cook, and love it, while experimenting with recipes and practicing meal planning on a regular basis.

Who knew that cooking could be fun?  Even like therapy!  June Cleaver would be proud of me!



10. This is the FIRST year that I've gotten to be a kid all over again -- do things like pick blueberries, visit the zoo, blow bubbles, climb up jungle gyms, swing and slide at parks, and do cartwheels.  I forgot how much fun being a child is!  

 


Vivian - my little charismatic inspiration of fun! 


11. This is the FIRST year that I've ran a race, began doing regular workout routines and actually look forward to my sweat-time.  I even tried yoga again, which I swore I'd never do. 

Vivian is much better at yoga than me -- she's way more flexible and doesn't mind "downward dog". 





12.  Best of all, this is the FIRST time in my life that I can remember feeling quite this happy, this content and this closer to making all my dreams come true.  I've learned to trust myself and believe in my abilities (a little bit more each day).  This is a FIRST that I hope to repeat over and over again in the coming days and years. 

Dream big and work hard.  Don't give up. -- Maybe we can have it all!

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List some FIRST'S that you've experienced this summer or this year.  Come on!  Make your list and check it twice.  Or I'm gonna call you naughty, not nice.  Let's share our successes, even the small ones! 

Have a great weekend!

College Daze

Yesterday I visited the local university here in Pensacola, UWF (University of West Florida).  I drove onto the campus for the first time ever.  It is located only twenty minutes from where I live.  My daughter Vivian was not with me (thankfully) but happily playing with friends at the mother's day out program she attends once a week.  Therefore, I decided to visit UWF's library and borrow a few books on the history of my new community.  My plan is to pick up on the "Find Roots, Plant Seeds" challenge I mentioned in May but cancelled due to my gallbladder removal surgery. 


Trying to maneuver my way around the grounds reminded me of just how old and out of touch I am with college students.  I can hardly believe it has been ten years since I graduated from college.  As I looked around at the few kids strolling the sidewalks, I thought to myself.... These kids look so young!  Yeah I said that.  I called them kids and young.  They barely looked eighteen to me.  Yet I, on the other hand, did not blend in as a typical student  anymore even though I wore a t-shirt, blue jean shorts and tennis shoes.  No, I looked and felt old.  I even had to ask the librarian (twice) to help me log onto the computer so I could look up a few books I wanted to borrow. 


Pensacola's college campus was bigger than the one I attended - Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, Louisiana.  My school didn't even have a football team when I went there.  You could walk across the campus within a few minutes and didn't need a car or bicycle to get around.  It was a mostly commuter college; therefore it was mostly a ghost town on Fridays and weekends while I was there.  The community was small but friendly.


As I purused the shelves of UWF, I began to wonder what my life might be like now if I had done things differently in college....  What if I had attended a different university?  What if I had majored in an alternative subject? What if I had joined the dance team or a sorority?  What if I had dated more?  What if I had partied more?  What if I had participated in an internship? 


What if..... What if.....?  I don't know why I ask myself these kinds of questions but I do.


Walking around on university grounds yesterday made me a little sad that my experiences are over.  That I didn't do more with my time in school.   I attended summer semester twice in college just so I could graduate quicker.  I mean... really?  What in the hell was I thinking?  Why was I in such a hurry to finish?  I didn't even have a plan or a job lined up after I graduated!  So why did I want those mostly no-responsibility days to end?


In fact, I majored in English.  I have a Bachelor of Arts in English.  But I didn't want to teach.  I didn't take the journalism route.  So really.... what was I thinking?   I had no direction. 


With no emphasis and no speciality, I settled into a desk job as a secretary for the start of my career.  Eventually that led me to a few jobs in Human Resources, then some in Marketing, all doing some form of Communications.  I usually wrote the company newsletters and did some form of creative writing each place that I went.  I had a few great experiences and made some wonderful friends in the different professions.  Now I'm a stay at home mom.  I know I'll return to work eventually but I'm not sure what I will be doing or what I even want to do. 


Did college prepare me for the real world?  Does anything really prepare you? 


My husband Kirk attended college a few semesters but never finished.  He hasn't (yet) attained a degree.  But frankly he hasn't needed one (yet).  Kirk stumbled upon a few great work opportunities in his early twenties.  Then those jobs evenutally led him on a career path that he reigns king in now, in the Information Technology world.   He still randomly receives job offers and notices because of the background he's had and the certifications that he's attained.  He was/is lucky.  Kirk landed in the right place at the right time.  He will even tell you that. 


I do have a degree but I didn't have those career interests or find those life-changing jobs in the way that Kirk did.  I wasn't as smart as I should have been while attending my university.  I didn't ask the right questions or take more time to soul search what I wanted to do in my life after those school daze days. 


But it wasn't a total waste of money I suppose.  (Dad, if you're reading this, I'm not paying you back for tuition!)  I did gain some new insights.  I did experience that melting pot culture that you're exposed to when surrounded by people from all walks of life.   I  did meet some of the most wonderful people that influenced me in many ways, that made me look at myself in a whole new light (for the better).


So even though I didn't (and still don't) know what I want to be when I grow up,  I suppose those days in college did bring me closer to finding out.  Or maybe, just maybe, I'll always be a student in the course of life.....  Is anyone hiring a professional, full-time student? 



Did you attend college?  If so, what did you major in?  Do you think schools prepare kids for the work force?  Share any insights you have from your college experience or days.   

Dear Inventor of the Automatic Flushing Toilet,

Dear Inventor of the Automatic Flushing Toilet,


Why did you have to put your scientific skills to work at such a trivial thing like commodes flushing by themselves?  Are we as a society so completely lazy that we can't take two seconds to reach over and pull the lever ourselves?  I mean, honestly? 

Instead of a laser beam on a commode, why not be like Dr. Evil and put them on sharks in a pool to get rid of your arch enemies?

An invention more useful than a hands-free toilet

Or perhaps you can put those red lights to work for benefit of greater mankind --inserting them into the eyes of criminals when they try to rob a bank? 

I'm sure together we can come up with much more suitable options for the general public.  Some where quality is not compromised and service is considerate for users.

Sure, I get the need to be "hands free" and keep those fingers clean, especially in public bathrooms.  Who knows what animals crawled in and died before we sit down to do number one or number two??

But let's discuss a few reasons why this laser beam-butt-sensored mechanism just doesn't work too well for some of us average folks, (like me):

1.  Before you even sit down to take care of business, the flushing begins. If you DO NOT have pants on, then your bunghole gets a surprise facial/spa treatment and not in the good way. If you DO have your underwear on, then you probably just soiled them from the surprise geyser like experience!

    Ye Old Faithful - the automatic flusher!

2.  If you have a child in the cramped potty stall with you, like I do, then chances are, this little automatic flushing toilet will SCARE the child causing him/her to clutch their mama for dear life.   That in turn causes the mommy to lose grip of her feet, hit her head on the door and nearly fall into that toilet where more multiple flushing episodes can then unfold.  Let the meltdowns begin!!  Child services is stepping in to see if I'm abusing my kid when I'm all trying to do is get her to sit on the toilet so she won't pee on herself!

3.  What if you just so happen to be taking a longer time in the bathroom....  Say you need to do a "courtesy" flush but you're kind of in the middle of it all.  So, you have to make a choice, one that others in the room are sure to figure out what you're really doing in there.... I heard a flush, that person must be finished.... wait, No!.... the door is still shut.... what is taking him/her so long?  Oh gosh, never mind, there is another "courtesy" flush.... And now I smell it....  The automatic flush feature just further embarasses and prolongs what should be a private, simple part of human nature.

Is this shameful and inferior product necessary?  I think not! 

Isn't it a bit like a stalker?  Always watching.... waiting..... for me (and others) to sit down, stand up, drop a load, spring a leak....

Take your beaming red eyes off of me, pal!  This is not a free show!

And please, DO NOT even get me started on those damn automatic hand dryer things as well!  You just casually slip a wet hand under there only to feel as if your skin will fall off.  "Houston, we have a problem.... you lost your rocket boosters to a wall gadget in the Target public restoom!  I repeat, Houston we have a problem.  My arm is about to fall out but yes, it is dry now, thank you."  


Can't we just go back to a world where you flush and dry your own body parts?  What's next?  An ass wiper machine?  Oh wait, those handy devices already exist.... They're called moms.  And nurses.  So really.... we've got it covered already.  Thanks!


Yours truly,
Miss Tired Of Your Eyes On Me And I'm Capable Of Flushing It Myself

My Review (Finally!) On The Book "Eat, Pray, Love"

I felt the need to eat and drink every time I read this book.  
It helped me get into character, LOL. :)


Wow, Amazing and Breathtaking!  That is the best way I can describe this wonderful book "Eat, Pray Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert.  I loved it.  I really, really did. 

I hope I can convey all my thoughts on this incredible novel in this simple, little blog post.  My writing does not compare to Gilbert's prose and storytelling abilities.  Still, I will try to sum up my feelings for you here in addition to offering some insights and interesting points about the book (without spoiling it) as well.

Section One - Italy (Eat):

Hearing Liz's experiences in Rome brought back memories for me since I traveled there with Kirk (and his father and stepmother) in 2003.  Just like the author describes, I was not much interested in the facts, statistics or deep-rooted history of the buildings, churches and paintings I saw.  I am like Liz in the fact that I loved it when our tour guide told us a story about what we were seeing, something along the lines of "This artist painted this for his lover Francesca whom he could not be with in public" RATHER THAN, "This was painted in the 18th century and uses this ____ style of brush stroke...." 

Thankfully I cannot relate to Liz's divorce, her tormented love affair with David or her suicidal thoughts.  I can, however relate to some of the turning 30 life crises she felt.  That's when I began this blog -- just a few months after turning the big 3-0.  Like Gilbert, I was questioning a lot of things in my life.  (Still do)  I became consumed with the "what is life? and what does it all mean?" mindset.  Therefore, I enjoyed hearing about her experiences, even the painful ones when she felt completely alone and lost.

I love how much Liz pokes fun at herself thoughout the novel.  She never writes in a way that you completely feel sorry for her.  Just when you start to, she makes you laugh.  And I mean, laugh out loud.

I can see why Liz wanted to go to Italy and why she's so fascinated with learning to speak Italian.  It truly is a romantic, beautiful language.  For example, the word "cute" in American English is pronounced "carina" (coh-ree-nah).  Isn't that gorgeous?  I have been called "cute" by more than a dozen people in my life.  And frankly, I always hated that term.  But if someone said, "Mandy, you're carina," then I think I'd absolutely melt in the person's arms of who uttered those words to me.   I love how much of the language Liz translates and shares with us, especially the experience when she feels like she has finally crossed over ("attraversiamo") into feeling as much of a native in Italy as possible. 

Throughout the four months of eating in Italty and learning to have a good time, Liz realizes how much Americans do NOT stop to enjoy themselves in the way that Italians do.  I wholeheartedly agree with this.  Europeans and Latin Americans move at a slower pace.  They take longer vacations.  They don't live for their work; they work in order to live.   Let's face it, like Liz and her Italian friends observe, "Americans just work too hard." 

What Liz (and the reader) learns from her travels in Italy is to add more pleasure and enjoyment into life.  Liz gained twenty three pounds while she lived in and around Rome for four months.  Besides putting on actual pounds, she learned to put on real weight in her world-- both physical and mental depths --  making her life more meaningful and worth experiencing. 


Section Two - India (Pray):

After spending four months of mostly pure pleasure in Italy, Liz moves onto a completely different way of life in India.   There she lives in an Ashram where she practices meditation for 12+ hours a day.  In addition, she scrubs the temple floors on her knees for several hours.  You have to admire her diligence!!   Especially when she sat there still for two hours letting mosquitoes eat away at her skin so that she could pray and prove the strength of her devotion. 

This section of the book is definitely the heaviest subject matter throughout the novel.  I know a few people who didn't like this part of her story.  I enjoyed it though.  Liz is very open about her beliefs and her thoughts on God (divine spirit, creator, maker) but she never comes across as being preachy.  In fact she encourages others to "cherry pick" things from religion, spirits, traditions or whatever in order to make you feel closer to enlightenment.  In other words, she's not trying to convert you to her ways and what she practices.  She encourages you to find your own way which I find most admirable. 

One of things I plan to do (like Liz did), is instead of choosing to pray (meditate, or whatever you call it) out loud (and feel silly), I wisht to write down my questions and thoughts into a notebook.  Whenever I want to get something off my chest or ask for help in some way, I want to write it down.  That is how Liz started her journey.  It makes sense to me.  She's a writer.  I'm a writer.  Why not write out my 'prayers' since I feel awkward talking to empty space and the air surrounding me?  So I hope to start doing this very soon.  I think it will be be good for me in so many ways.

I wish I had Liz's confidence when it comes to knowing for sure that there is a divine spirit and other worldly presence.  I haven't experienced what she has.  I don't know with certain affirmation that He/She/It does exist in the way that she describes her "cross over" moments.  For instance, she was up on the tower of the Ashram alone and felt she was lifted above earth, so to speak.  I don't doubt her tale, even though it is hard for me to completely understand or believe her.  There are some things, I believe, that you just have to experience for yourself.

I will say this though -- while I was reading about her "divine intervention" moments, my 2.5 year old daughter Vivian kept coming up to me and hugging me, giving me the biggest smiles.  Over and over again like nothing I've seen her do before.  She was even trying to cover me up with a blanket as I was lying on the couch reading.  Then for whatever reason, I stopped mid-sentence and looked at her for a long time....  As crazy as it sounds, I wondered if I was experiencing a "divine moment" right then and there -- my own little loving Diva, the only creature who seems to love me without any question or hesitation. She loved me since the moment she arrived on this earth.  Perhaps I've been overlooking obvious signs of divinity for a long time now??  The loving nature of my daughter's eyes (when she's not being a royal pain) is the closest to a 'heaven' I've ever experienced.

So I put the book away for a few minutes and just cried.  I hugged my little girl so tightly.  Now let me be clear.... I don't think you have to be a mom or a parent to feel this kind of moment..... I only know that since I became a mother, I've never felt so wounded, so open and so loved all at the same time.  My life is not just my own anymore but it does somehow have a greater purpose or meaning (depth) to it.  And maybe.... just maybe.... this is slowly leading me to that higher power that Liz describes in her book.  Or maybe I'm just insane.  That is probably true too. 

But I then began to wonder if maybe God (Creator, or whatever if it does exist?) is just like my own child in many ways.... That.... 
--He/She/It just wants my attention and my love and I don't always see it?
--He/She/Whatever becomes frustrated when I don't fully believe in the powers and acknowledge them?
--Is happiest when I am happy too?
--Just wants to be with me and love me? 

I know this is getting pretty deep.... but these were the questions that I wrote down as I read the ending of part two in Liz's book.  I don't have the answers to these questions yet but I did want to share my truthful experience as I covered the chapters in this book.  Maybe the above moments was my way of "crossing over" perhaps.... ???

I loved the final poems that Liz wrote on her India experiences.  I also adored the images of her kissing trees and frolicking around in a holy temple.  Who doesn't want to be a hippie at heart?  At peace, feeling love and feeling contentment all on its own (without any hallucinogenic drugs, that is).


Section Three - Indonesia (Love):

After finding pleasure in Italy and spirtual enlightenment in India, Liz hopes to find balance between the two in Indonesia.  She didn't, however, expect to find love.  Liz had vowed to have a year of celibacy while traveling but she breaks that vow after she meets her future (second) husband Felipe. 

Before she meets her lover, she first spends her time as a secretary to a Balinese medicine man, watching him spend hours trying to heal both local and visiting travelers.  She was drawn to this man two years prior when she traveled to Bali for a yoga writing assignment.  He (Ketut) read her palm and predicted her future, asking her to come back to see him again.  Of course she did. 

From him and the Balinese people, Liz learns the notion of balance and placement in the world.  The people of Bali are obsessed with direction, always asking each other, "Where are you coming from?"  "Where are you going?" and "Are you married?"  Everything and everyone has a place and an order -- that is how the natives remain at constant balance and peace -- by physical placement and direction. 

Liz befriends another divorced woman who is a local doctor, Wayan.  She and her daughter are in desparate need of a permanet home and some stability in their lives.  Finally Liz sees the opportunity to use her resources and her 'love' to help this lady buy a home and build a real family.  With the help of friends across the globe, Liz raises money to make this woman's far-away dreams come true.   She sums it up nicely when she says, "When you set out in the world to help yourself, you inevitably end up helping "Tutti" which is Wayan's daughter but literally translates to the word "everybody."  :-) 

The stories and conversations shared between Wayan and Liz are HILARIOUS!  Simply hilarious!  I won't reveal them here except only to say I laughed very hard at the descriptions of putting the local taxi drivers to work and also stroking the bananas for healing purposes.  And I'll just leave it at that until you read it for yourself!!  :-) 

Meanwhile Liz begins falling for divorced Brazilian Felipe, a 52-year old business man who has everything to give to her now strong-spirited 35-year old self.  They take it slow in the beginning but then the passion overwhelms them.  For the first time in a long time, Liz feels that someone can take of her (not that she needs it, but she wants it) and that she can offer the same in return. 

I'll now close here with probably my most favorite quote in the entire book, the one that really had me thinking....


"...People universally think that happiness is a stroke of luck, something that will maybe descend upon you like fine weather if you're fortunate enough.  But that's not how happiness works.  Happiness is the consequence of personal effort.  You fight for it, strive for it, insist upon it, and sometimes even travel around the world looking for it.  You have to participate relentlessly in the manfestitations of your own blessings.  And once you have achieved a state of happiness, you must never become lax about maintaining it, you must make a mighty effort to keep swimming upward into that happiness forever, to stay afloat on top of it...." 


In my humble opinion, that is the overall message of the book.  And that is the goal of my life -- to keep working toward my own happiness.  Because I CAN control my joy.  I CAN control my attitude and my outlook.  And to be most honest with you (and myself), I WANT my life to be filled with pleasure, with enlightenment and with love. 

Inspiring Words From "Eat, Pray, Love"

I'm coming to the final chapters of the book "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert.  At first, I wanted to hurry up and finish it.  I breezed through the first section rather quickly.  But then I began loving it too much to let it end... (For example, I recall my friend Tracy loved a novel so much that she put it aside for nearly a year refusing to read the last chapter, saying that it wouldn't be over until she was ready).  Okay, so I'm not as crazy as her.  But I'm taking my time through the next few days to read the ending and gather my thoughts before I review it here.


In the mean time, I do want to share some wonderful, inspiring quotes from this novel with you -- words that I marked and wanted to remember for later as I was reading them.  I hope you find these lines as profound, thought-provoking and wonderful as I did.   (Note that some quotes were written by the author but others were spoken to her by someone else throughout her travels): 


"It is better to live your own destiny imperfectly than to live an imitation of somebody else's life with perfection." 


"In a world of disorder and disaster and fraud, sometimes only beauty can be trusted.  Only artistic excellence is incorruptible.  Pleasure cannot be bargained down.  And sometimes the meal is the only currency that is real." 


"The appreciation of pleasure can be the anchor of one's humanity." 


"You were given life; it is your duty (and also your entitlement as a human being) to find something beautiful within life, no matter how slight."


"Faith is a courageous act of humanity, NOT an insurance policy."

"I am assuming custodial responsibility for the maintenance of my own soul." 


"Destiny is a relationship.  Half of it you control and the other half you don't." 


"I will not harbor unhealthy thoughts anymore."

"Silence is the only true religion."


"Flexibilty is just as essential for divinity as is discipline.  Your job then, should you choose to accept it, is to keep searching for the metaphors, rituals and teachers that will help you move ever closer to divinty." 


"I think you have every right to cherry-pick when it comes to moving your spirit and finding peace and God.... You take whatever works from wherever you can find it, and you keep moving forward toward the light...." 


"YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW STRONG MY LOVE IS!!!!!!!!!!"

"I have frantically searched for contentment for so many years in so many ways.... At some point you have to stop because.... You have to admit that you can't catch it.  You're not supposed to catch it.  At some point, you gotta let go and sit still and allow contentment to come to you." 


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Now can you understand why I'm having a hard time letting go of this novel AND reviewing it here?  This book has given me so much to think about....  I've laughed and cried throughout the experience.  I'm not ready to conclude just yet but I will soon. 

In the mean time, I hope the quotes above will inspire you or make you think in a different way, as they did for me.  Best wishes! 

My First Guest Post, Featured Writers And A Homemade Bread Recipe Too!

There are a handful of bloggers who I write to (through email mostly) on a weekly or monthly basis.  Some I have even spoken with on the phone.  A few of us have become friends, much more than just an anonymous person who comments on a post.  I like having these wonderful people in my life and I feel fortunate that we can share things about our families, hobbies and more. 

One of those teriffic blogger buddies is Anne from Annie Bakes.  I write to her when I try new recipes or when I'm looking for ideas on things to make.  Recently I told her how I tried making my first ever homemade wheat bread.  Anne asked me to share the experience with her in the form of a guest post on her site. 

I was so honored!  How could I say no?  Nobody has asked me to be a guest writer before.  Is this what winning an Academy award feels like? 





So please jump over to Annie Bakes right now to read my featured guest post.  You'll gain my homemade bread recipe and see several photos of how the process unfolded.  While you're there, be sure to check out some of Anne's great family recipes!  You won't be disappointed! 

And if you happen to be visiting for the first time today from Anne's wonderful site, WELCOME!  Thank you for checking me out.  I mean that in a non-sexual, looking at my ass kind of way too.  ;-)  I have posted several recipes on this blog but not every day in the same way that Anne does on her site.  However, please check out a few of my favorite ones --

Sweet Red Pepper Relish
Carrot Cinnamon Bread
Man's Italian Meat Pie
Crawfish Etoufee and Lazy Light Lasagna

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This guest post of mine got me thinking.....  why haven't I ever asked any of my friends to do a guest spot on this site?  My blogger pals are great writers and they have more artistic flare than me.  They'd make a great addition to this blog.  In the past, I've only asked my parents to be guest writers.  But now I think that I should consider having more folks showcase their talent.  After all, I know poets, writers, travel experts, craftmakers and more.  I'm lucky to know some very skilled individuals. I suppose I should stop hogging them all to myself!  ;-)

If you are a regular reader and follower of this site, tell me who you'd like to hear from?  Or would YOU like to be a guest writer on this site?  If so, please leave me a message in the comments.  Or you can email me directly at littlebit.mandy@gmail.com.

Thank you for being a part of my life, a part of this site and for reading about my adventures!  I would still be here writing in this online diary even if you weren't around.  But having you sit with me during the ride enchances the rollercoaster fun!   Thanks for bringing along the funnel cake so we can both puke at the same time.  Cheers!

Awkward Moments (part one)

Having a child (or being around children) results in even more awkward situations than you've imagined in your life.  You find yourself having to explain things or be quick-witted on topics (or situations) that you didn't have to think about before. 

Here are a few recent examples that I've had the pleasure of experiencing: 

1.)  After a family breakfast at Denny's (classy, I know), we stopped at K-Mart to look for a few household items we needed.  Well, you know it happens to all of us at one time or another.... my stomach starts churning and bubbling.  I'm glancing around for the restroom praying for the best.... hoping that it's not the most disgusting place on earth.  I couldn't help it.  Those two cups of coffee, scrambled eggs with cheese, hashbrowns and pancakes were ready to exit.  So into the ladies' room I go, with Vivian at my hip of course.  At least now that I have her fold-up potty seat, I use that when I need to and can avoid touching the sides of the nasty public toilets.  I did my business and Vivian was right there, nearly sticking her nose up my bunghole.  Yes, toddlers like to be front and center for the show!  "Oooh, you pooped Mommy!"  she chants. "Yes I did honey," I say hoping no one walks in at this very moment, as the stalls were empty.  "Oh yay!" she claps and says.  Then she leans in trying to get an even closer look.  "It's gross!" she says.  "Thank you," I reply.  "It's stinky!" she says.  Again, "thank you."   I mean what else do I do or say here?  Defication is a part of life that just can't be avoided!  Especially in public restrooms.  Sheesh! 


2.) Kirk arrives home from work a week ago and enters the doorway.  I am in the kitchen putting away dishes.  Vivian was in the living room playing with her puzzles.  Kirk takes the opportunity to offer me a kiss and then embraces me like one of those Harlequin romance novel covers.  Then (as usual), his hands go straight down to my breasts.  He does his typical groping.  Vivian walks in on his affections toward me.  She asks, "Dad, what are you doing?"  Kirk kind of laughs and says, "I've giving mommy a hug."  Vivian looks at me and gently asks, "Mommy, are you stuck?" as she glances at his one hand on my butt and the other one on my boob.  I laugh back and say, "Yes, I kind of am stuck, sweetie."  Stuck between a husband's desires and a toddler's interrogation efforts.  Quite the sticky situation. 

3.) Lately I have been waking up early in the morning or even in the middle of the night to find Vivian just standing there, staring at Kirk and me in our beds.  She is quiet and just looking at us.  This kind of creeps me out, I have to be honest.  I immediately think of some spooked child with evil powers.  Like, "I see dead people...." or a new variation of "Children of the Corn" about to cause me harm!  It is a sad morning when I am startled from my much-needed beauty sleep then feel afraid of my own two year old daughter.


4.) During a recent menstrual cycle, Vivian caught me in the act of changing my maxi pad.  (Forgive me to any men if you happen to be reading this, but it's just what we gals have to deal with.  Plus, I don't like the term 'sanitary napkin' because let's face it - it's NOT a napkin and you DO NOT feel very sanitary!)  Anyway, Viv pointed to it and inquired, "What's that?"  I paused for a moment and just replied, "Mommy is wearing a diaper today."  Then she gave an odd look and became quiet.  I swear I think in her mind she was saying, "Geez, my mommy is a little old NOT to be potty trained yet!" 


I don't know why I decided to share the above personal stories with you.  I guess to humor myself and also so you could enjoy a good laugh at my own expense. 


I realize that this is only the beginning of the embarrasing, amusing experiences that will occur in the future.  In fact, it will probably just become worse.  What will happen when my child walks in on Kirk and me having sex?  How will I explain the female organs and growth spurts that go along with them?  Oh geez, I'm in such big trouble folks!  I don't have a very good poker face.


Do you have an awkward moment to share with me?  If you're brave enough, leave it in the comments so I know I'm not alone here. 

Book Review: "Heart of the Matter" AND Banana Toffee Squares Recipe

Good books and excellent food go together. Just like movies and buttered popcorn remain inseparable.  As I continue to read new novels and feel inspired to review them, I'm also going to pair my thoughts here with a recipe that (I believe) goes along with the story. 

Today I will discuss "Heart of the Matter" by Emily Giffin - a book that was sent to me as a wonderful surprise from Jonita the Book Chick.  In fact, she and her sister-in-law even met the author recently and had her sign the book's copy.  Read about the experience here.  I'm also going to share a delicious banana toffee squares recipe with you.


WARNING: There are spoilers that I mention about this book! 

Do you know the clear signs of a well written story and carefully developed characters?  I think it occurs when you find yourself saying things like, "Gosh, that could be me!" or "Holy crap, that sounds just like what I've said or done!"  That is how I felt while reading (or listening to I should clarify, since it was technically an audiobook on CD)  "Heart of the Matter". 

I really enjoyed the novel although I'll admit that it took me the first two CD's before I got into it... but once I reached the third CD and then the fourth, I was listening to one and a half CD's per day until I finished the book.  I used my daughter Vivian's two-hour naptime as my window of uninterrupted opportunity.

The book involves two women, Tessa and Valerie, and the story is told from their different points of view.  Without realizing it, the ladies are connected through Tessa's husband Nick Russo who becomes the surgeon of Valerie's son Charlie after a burn accident occurs.  Nick and Valerie-- the single mom attorney-- form a friendship that eventually crosses the line into something more, even passionate. 

Meanwhile, Tessa is juggling the stay-at-home motherhood life - raising two young children after she decided to quit her teaching job.  She struggles with her new identity and becomes a bit lost as the surgeon's wife whom she never sees.  Her bitterly divorced mother warns her about the choices she makes, about deciding to stay home and becoming an idle housewife. 

Once Nick admits his infidelity to Tessa, both she and Valerie take a hard look at their lives and what they will do next.  Each questions their own heart and happiness -- what it will take for them each to feel whole again.  The author, Giffin, did an excellent job at offering little insights into each main character.   

It was scary how much I identified with Tessa.... the panicky housewife and mom who often can't hold it together.  She left her job to spend time at home and because the career stressed her out.   Yet being at home also proves to be challenging.  I can soooooo understand this!  I only hope that I can avoid the plastic friendship circles she had partaken in, along with the gossip and drama over schools.  I don't blame Tessa for little rants and comparisons to other females here and there.... as women, we all do it. But on occasion, I did find her a bit too pleasing, untruthful and clingy.

I felt sorry for Valerie and her situation as well - being stuck in a hospital for months wondering if her son's face and hand would return to normal after that horrible fire accident at a friend's house.  However, I never excused her for what she did -- becoming involved with a married man.  And yet Giffin did such a convincing writeup for all the reasons why it happened that you do become lost in the passion.  I was sympathetic but not completely understanding of the unfolding events.

The most interesting part to me regarding the whole book though was the role reversals of the female leads at the end -- how strong Tessa and confident ended up being in the final chapters when throughout the story she was always falling apart.  And how Valerie was so confident and together in the beginning but then she fell apart and became so vulnerable at the end.  These traits of both women is what affected and attracted Nick to each of them.  And ultimately what determined the outcome of their love triangle. 

As I read about the lives of each women, I found myself thinking of my own life.  I began asking Kirk if he's happy in our marriage, making sure I'm doing everything I can for him and our family as a stay at home mom and wife.  Hahaha, that may sound crazy I guess....  I know he is happy and satisfied with our roles right now. He tells me that sentiment quite often.   Yet something about the similarities between Tessa and me made me question my own situation and how I treat Kirk when he comes home from work on a busy day.   But that just marks the details of a great writer.... Emily Giffin had me so caught up in the characters that I began reflecting on my own life!

Overall, I would recommend this book to others, especially those who enjoy women's fiction (aka chick lit).  Even though I wish some things ended differently in the story, I'd tell my friends about this novel and I would definitely consider reading more of Emily Giffin's books.  Her themes of lost identity, motherhood struggles and the quest for happiness are ones that many of us can relate to in our lives.

What I like about a book on CD like this one is that while I listen, I can bake, clean the kitchen, fold laundry, or do whatever I want.  Actress Cynthia Nixon did a great job reading the novel and altering her voices a bit. However, I wonder if I'd view the characters in quite the same way.... Tone and sarcasm are inflected so I question if I'd view the undertones in the same manner that Nixon did. Regardless, I would obtain an audio book again because it is a fun way to listen to a story while getting things done around the house.


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Throughout the book, holidays and family gatherings were mentioned.  The hospitality among family and friends made me think of comfort foods, especially desserts.  Then I happen to come across a delicious sounding recipe called "Banana Toffee Cake" that I just recently tried.  

This scrumptious dish seemed like something that Tessa or Valerie would enjoy.  I altered it to become the below-listed perfect dessert, cut into squares.  Kirk loved it so much.  He even called it an "orgasm in the mouth" after he took a bite.  I guess you could say the 'heart of the matter' for my husband is due, in part, to the wonderful foods I prepare for him.  :-) 

I hope you enjoy this if you try it! 




Banana Toffee Squares

Ingredients:
-2 bananas, ripened and mashed
-1/2 cup of brown sugar
-1/4 cup of unsalted butter
-1 egg
-1 tsp vanilla extract
-1 and 1/4 cup of flour (I used white wheat flour)
-1/4 tsp baking powder
-1/4 cup of yogurt (I used Greek yogurt, vanilla flavored)
-1/4 cup of buttermilk
-1 and 1/2 toffee pieces divided (I used a bag of Hershey's Heath toffee bits)

Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Spray a 8 x 8 pan with cooking spray and put it aside.  In a large bowl, cream the butter, banana and sugar together using a mixer.  Mix for about three minutes until fluffy.  Add the egg and vanilla extract.  Blend together using mixer.  In a smaller, separate bowl whisk the yogurt and buttermilk together.  Sift the flour and baking powder in another bowl.  Begin adding 1/3 of the flour mixture to the banana mixture; then add in 1/3 of the buttermilk mixture.  Alternate the wet and dry ingredients, pouring them into the banana bowl until used up.  Continue using the mixer, blending the mixture on low speed, to make the cake batter.  Once fully blended, gently fold in all toffee pieces except for 1/4 of the bits.  Pour the batter into the greased 8 x 8 pan.  Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 toffee pieces on top of the cake in the pan.  Bake for 30 - 35 minutes.  Insert a knife to test for doneness.   

Let it cool completely.  Cut into 16 squares.  (I used a plastic knife for better results)  Dig in.  Refrigerate any leftovers you have in an air-tight container.





(Note: Consistency will be similar to a moist bread, like bread pudding BUT without the pudding.  It's soooo good!)



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Coming soon, I'm going to review the book "Eat, Pray Love."  I will also share my delectable Panko Crusted Chicken Parmesan Recipe with you.  Kirk says it's the best chicken parmesan he's ever tasted! 


Also, look for my upcoming topics on modern day friendship bracelets and why I need help becoming OCD!


Cheers and best wishes!

Reading, Running and Rethinking....

This week I've been rather engrossed with reading.  In fact, I'm in the midst of three books right now.  Yes, all at one time!  I'm crazy I know. 

It just kind of happened that way.  I started reading "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens about two weeks ago.  I like it.  But it's not exactly a page-turner type of story, not for me anyway.  I'm more than half way finished it.  Then I received an email from my local library saying that Elizabeth Gilbert's autobiographical book "Eat, Pray Love" is now available.  I had placed it on hold over a month ago.

When I received that email, I became giddy, I must admit.  Was it divine intervention that gave me this book during this kind of blech week I'm having? Or was it just the last slacker who read it finally decided she/he could part with it?  I have heard about this book for quite some time.  How could you not?  It's been on the bestseller's list for several years now.  Plus I've recently watched a few of the movie trailers starring Julia Roberts which happens to be coming out next month.  I determined that I finally wanted to read the book; then see the film. 

Here I am on Tuesday playfully posing with my borrowed library copy of the book with some children statues.  I asked some random library person to take my picture.  Because I'm nutty like that. 



I'm already 75 pages into Liz's story.  Yes I feel like I know her on a first-name basis already.  And I am really enjoying it.  I can't wait to finish it (ideally this weekend) and review it on here.  I really dig Liz's humor especially on such heavy topics like God, marriage, love, depression, careers and more.  When she had her life-crisis, she was at my almost age of 32.  So I feel like we're connected in some way.  Not that I am depressed or planning to leave my husband and travel for a year.  No way!  But I understand her uncertainties, her questioning and her need to try to make sense in this crazy world.

I'm a total sap for self-help and self discovery type stories.  Especially those that are relatable, humorous but not preachy. 

When "Eat, Pray Love" is not in my fingertips or sitting quiety next to me, I'm listening to my audio book on CD (that I also plan/hope to review next week!)  I'm enjoying this other story as well -- "Heart of the Matter" by Emily Giffin.  I am a little fearful of how clearly I indentify with a few of the characters in this book.  But I'll dive more into that when I write my review on this book, hopefully soon.

So between those two novels and the "Great Expectations" book that I randomly read a chapter here and there, I'm a mess.  I don't feel like focusing on much else.  I'm trying ever so hard to distract Vivian to allow myself more time to read during the day, instead of paying attention to her.  But the Diva doesn't let me forget her for too long.

Therefore, I'm trying to encourage good reading habits for Vivian, (as evidence in the below photo).  You can see that she and I lined up all her stuffed animals so that we could all have some quiet reading time to ourselves.  LOL! 



The only problem with lots of reading, especially this deep thinking kind of reading, is that your mind begins running around.  You can't stop it.  I can't stop mine.  You try to clear it from all the questions and new wonderments you have.  I can't seem to quiet the questioning. 

In fact, I even tried running on my treadmill in order to run away from my thoughts.  I put my music on and rocked out to Bon Jovi, Duran Duran, Usher and a dozen others. 



But that only lasted a half-hour or so.  Once I wiped away the sweat from my face, the sore muscles in my legs resurfaced, along with the Freud who lives within me.  And those kinds of philosophical thoughts lead to insomnia.  So, I've had insomnia for the past two nights.  Not fun.  Although it does allow me to read more and then that leads to rethinking.....

Oh rethinking....I'm always analyzing this or that about myself.  Constantly questioning my actions, words and choices.  A few days ago I wished for a minute that I was some redneck-hillbilly who lived in a shack that knew nothing of the outside world.  I only had one friend and was just happy in my hole, eating beans and canned sausages. 

But then I snapped out of that dream.  I realized that although that "ignorance is bliss" kind of lifestyle may seem appealing at times, it just isn't me.  That way is not my way. 

So here I sit writing this post, taking a few moments to reveal how I can't stop reading, running and rethinking.  That's all.  Nothing more.

I'm questioning things.  I have no definitive answers.  No profound discoveries to share here just yet.  I'm just wandering around.  Just me with my books.  With thoughts running through my brain while I literally run.  And my mind stays in constant rethinking mode. 

What are you reading?  What is running through your mind today?  Did this post make you rethink about something going on in your world?

Sweet Or Sour? (And Great Citris Recipes Too!)

Do you like the combination of sweet and sour?  Or do you prefer one over the other?  I am talking about more than just the flavor combinations of Chinese cuisine and your favorite mixed drink too. 

In life, do you think most people are compiled of sweet and sour traits?  Does it vary depending on the person's mood? 

Lately I find myself jumping from sweet to sour.  Then back to sweet again.  I am happy and content for a day.  Then I'm bored and irritated.  I'm optimistic one minute, then negative nelly visits me moments later. 

I hit a writing groove, with several drafts saved on my computer.  Then my words fade and turn to dust.  Blank pages (or screen) set in and my disappointment lingers. 

I told Kirk recently that sometimes I feel uninteresting.  That I worry about turning into some boring housewife and mom.  He laughed at me and said I was crazy. Then he asked me if I was hormonal.  (We women just love that remark, don't we?)   I know he finds me interesting.  That's not the problem.  The problem is that I am putting myself to sleep from lack of luster.

I was doing well with my monthly challenges.  And I'm still keeping up with reading and staying fit.  Yet I've not been motivated to do much beyond that.  I'm still searching for the right quest, the next task that I feel passionate about taking on.  Hopefully something that will enable both my sweet and sour components. 

Is your personality more sweet than sour?  Or are you a combination of the two as well?  Do you think that both is a necessity to human life? 

While I figure out how to better appreciate or understand my sour ways, I thought I'd share some great recipes with you.  That is while I'm in a playful, generous and sweet mood.

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Here are THREE delicious ways that I've been enjoying treats over the past several days.  With the summertime heat index hitting over 100 here in Florida these days, I've been craving citris desserts and dips. 


Please try one of these that I've personally tested -


Tomato Mango Salsa



Ingredients:
- One to two mangoes (about 1.5 cups diced)
-Two to three medium size tomatoes
-1/3 chopped sweet or red onion
-Two tablespoons of lime juice
-1/2 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
-Two to three tablespoons of cilantro

Preparation:
Cut the mango open and detach it from the seed.  Slice and dice it into small squares.  Do the same with the tomatoes.  Place both in a bowl.  Mix in all remaining ingredients.  Stir.  Let chill in refrigerator for about two hours.  Serve with chips or crackers.


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Light Lemon Bars



Ingredients:
-Four lemons for zest and juice (just over 1/3 cup of lemon juice)
-3 large eggs
-6 tbsp of butter, softened
-3 tbsp of flour
-1/2 cup of confectioners' sugar
-1 cup of flour
-2/3 cup of granulated sugar
-1/2 tsp of baking powder

Preparation:

Step 1 - Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a medium size bowl, beat 1/2 cup of confectioners' sugar with the 6 tbsps of butter until it becomes creamy.  Add in the 1 cup of flour.  Beat on low speed until the mixture is crumbly.  Press the mixture onto the bottom of a greased 8 x 8 square baking pan.  Bake for 10 - 12 minutes, until the crust is brown.  Let it cool for about ten minutes.

Step 2 - While Step 1 is baking and cooling, grab another mixing bowl.  Whisk the eggs on medium speed until they become foamy.  Take your lemons and use a zester to grate the lemon zest.  Then juice your lemons until you have 1/3 cup of juice.  Add the lemon zest and juice to the eggs.  Then add in the 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and 3 tbsp of flour.  Beat the mixture until smooth. 

Step 3 - Pour the lemon liquid mixture over the cooled crust in the 8 x 8 pan.  Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.  Place immediately in the refrigerator.  Let it chill for about two hours.  Cut with a plastic knife into 16 squares.  Enjoy! 

(P.s - each square is less than 100 calories and has less than 2 g of fat.  So indulge and don't feel guilty!  :)



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And the THIRD way that I like to enjoy citris flavor on a hot, summer day is to grab one of these:



Beer With Fruit

Reach into your fridge.  Grab a beer.  Add a lime or lemon. 

Open, drink and enjoy!



WHAT?  It works for me!  :-)


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Let me know what sweet and sour things you love -- with regards to food, people and life in general!  

I hope you stay cool in the hot days that lie ahead! 

Picnics and Pretend Play

 Why are women in older portraits always naked?
And why would a lady want to attend a picnic without clothes? 
That's just asking for trouble and to be eaten by ants?! 

This summer I've had the pleasure of participating in quite a few picnics - both real and imaginary ones.  At least once a week, Vivian and I decide to "cop a squat" on the carpet in our living room to eat our lunch.  (We eat outside as well but lately it's much too hot for that!)  Often we'll watch a movie or play music while we eat. 

When my niece was here, we also picniced each day.  On the third day of her visit when I began to set the table for our lunch, she asked me, "Aunt Mandy, can we have a picnic again today?"  How could I refuse such a request?!

Why is it that eating food on the cold hard ground (or on the floors inside your home) make lunches or dinners more exciting?  How come the disposition is more relaxed and less protesting occurs when you determine to eat a meal as close to nature as possible? 

Just the word "picnic" draws to mind a warm feeling -- a feast, friends, family and the great outdoors.  After I think of the term picnic, I immediately think of "comfort" as in comfort foods and a comfortable setting with loved ones. 

Vivian and I had a glorious picnic with some of her stuffed animals earlier this week.  Monkey enjoyed his banana.  Kermit the Frog put away his usual flies and opted for potato chips instead.  Elmo indulged in corn.  It was a most courteous and joyful feast for all, especially for Viv who had a grand time jibbering away at all the attendants.  She was a gracious picnic host, I must say proudly.  (See photo below)





Now, if you will..... please play along with me.  Let's take a break and enjoy a virtual picnic together.  Use your imagination.  Come'on, please play along and pretend with me. 

We're having a picnic - You and Me.  Let's describe our adventure. 

1. What color is our picnic blanket?   

2. What color is the basket?  (Or what are we pulling our feast from?)

3. What foods are we eating?

4. What drinks do we have?

5. Where are we dining (indoors, outdoors, in the park, on the beach)? 

6. What sounds do we hear nearby (birds chirping, kids playing ball, waves crashing against the shore)? 

7. What are we talking about?  Or are we silently sitting? 

8. What time of the day is it? 


Feel free to post your answers in the comments section.  Or you can create your own picnic post and answer the questions there.  Let's start a virtual picnic that spreads across the nation.  I'd love to hear your idea of a perfect feast. 

Did just thinking about a picnic make you feel better?  I hope you'll take the time to have a picnic this summer.  Sometimes just the simple things in life can make a real dent of joy in your day. 

Happy Picnicing Everyone!  May it be a wonderful event (without the ants and flies)! 

Staring Into The Clouds (a poem)

Do you stop to stare into the clouds?
What objects and creatures do you see?

Today I spotted a large chicken

Perhaps pleading, "please don't eat me!"

Last week I saw a frisky dolphin

Making a big, white splash

Before that, a princess with a crown

In a fancy gown with a sash. 

I see these cotton balls above
Encouraging me to float away

To drift off into another world

Be someone else for a day. 

I envy the birds and the pilots

Who soar through windy skies

While my feet are planted on the ground

Hands shooing away bugs and flies.

I stare into the clouds so peacefully

My thoughts are scattered like a dream

Soon light fades into the dark night

I dance with the stars and moonbeams.

What are you dreaming about today?  What was the last creature you saw in the clouds? 

Let's Talk Random Again, Shall We?

A picture so funny, it deserves to be shared and repeated here!  :-)

Every now and then, I just feel like sharing some tid-bits and updates from my daily life.  It's not thought-provoking or necessarily funny (or even interesting).  But it's my world and my brain food. 

So with that being said, here is my randomness of the week:

• Vivian is taking swim lessons.  Well more importantly, she's taking "drowning prevention" instructions.  My friend is a certified ISR (Infant Swim Resource) teacher.  With the beach, bay, lakes and ponds all within a close radius of where we live, it became important to me that Viv be safe around water.  Each weekday the Diva has her lessons.  Each day, she cries and whines a little less.  Each day, the Diva shows off her fish fins more and more.   Her teacher says she has a great form and strong kick.  It's silly how proud I am that she has inherited my swim legs.  Although I think her intense focus and determination comes from Kirk. 
  
  
  
• Earlier today I saw a grown man riding in the back of a pickup truck with a dog while it was raining.  We were on the interstate and driving approximately 70 mph.  I've never seen someone so happy to be riding NOT within a vehicle.  I watched in almost astonishment how this adult let this dog lick his face while smiling and laughing with the rain falling down over them both.  What a great attitude, I thought to myself.  Here's a man who is living in the moment and enjoying himself even though he's got bugs coming at him in hurricane force speeds and may catch pneumonia.  Then of course I wondered if he was an illegal immigrant or an escaped convict who hadn't seen his dog in a few years and maybe that's why he looked so happy??
  
  
• Within the past week, three people commented on how great (and thin) I look since the last time they saw me.  Can I just say that I did a little internal happy dance when I heard those words?  I simply said thank you and told them it was in part to my no gallbladder diet.  But it sure is nice to receive compliments, especially when it's from relatives you haven't seen in awhile.  Twenty two pounds lost since October 2009.  I'd say that would be a change for someone who hasn't seen me since then!  ;-)  Now, let me go have some ice cream to celebrate!  :-)

• We had to board Bono our dog into a kennel while we went on vacation since our usual dog sitters were out of town.  I was a nervous wreck trying to find a place.  I called his groomer to see if they kept animals overnight.  They told me that they were booked up.  When I thanked them anyway and said again how I loved the cut job they did for Bono, they said, "Wait! Did you say Bono? Oh well that changes things!  He's on our VIP list!"  Can you believe it?  My dog.... the one that eats his own poop and runs around like a crazy convict in the rain is on aVIP list?  Amazing!  I wonder if he can get me tickets to see Lady Gaga in concert this fall?
  
  

• I forgot how much I enjoy a car ride for several hours.  I used the quiet time recently to do some major reading in my latest classic novel.  While Kirk was annoyed at the traffic buildup and longer than expected arrival time, I was secretly happy to turn the pages and have the solitary time in the truck.  I'm currently reading "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens.  It took me awhile to get into the story but I'm looking forward to finishing it and gathering my thoughts for a review soon.
  
  
  
• Cooking and baking have become therapeutic for me lately.  When I feel as if I have nothing to write or nothing creative going on in my day, I can suddenly think up a recipe to try.  Then I make it and the dish more than likely comes out great.  For some strange reason, this has given me a sense of accomplishment recently, especially when I feel I have nothing else to give.  I love making a little more than what I need and sharing it with others too.  Some other great compliments I've recently lately have included positive remarks on my potato salad and my carrot-cinnamon muffins.  When someone asks me for the recipe of what I make, I feel as if I've won a contest or a race.  Silly I know, but sometimes it is what I cling to to feel successful.
  
  
  
• I have had a great time visiting with my nieces and nephew over the past week.  I tried to give each of them some individual, spoiled time!  I was so happy to see Vivian get along so well with her cousins.  It made me sad that we don't see our relatives more often for her to have playdates.  Living away from your family is not always easy.  I have my good and bad days about it.  Still, I feel like where I am is home -- where I'm supposed to be. 
  
  
• Spiritual thoughts and questions often pop into my head.  I wish I had an unbiased person to speak to about my disconnect -- someone who won't influence me but help me.  Like my own private religious guru who doesn't care what I think or what choices I make.  This is an area in my life that I want to explore and dig deeper into.... but how?  Why is it that I love to be uplifted by things of a religious nature -- music, books, poems, etc.  Yet I myself don't live a religious life?   I have a hard time believing in it....  But why does it bother me so?  (Note -- I'm not really looking for answers here -- just posting my thoughts out loud....)
  
  
  
• Confession: I began to like the songs by Justin Bieber after hearing my eleven year old niece play them over and over and over again for four days straight.  I even bought her his CD and a t-shirt.  It reminded me of my infatuation with teen idols when I was her age.  NKOTB -- holla!  (That's New Kids on the Block for any of you who don't know or don't remember.... and for that, shame on you!!)
  
  
• I cannot cook seafood.  Especially fish.  I've never been able to get it to come out right.  That's okay though.  Because it's one of my favorite things to order at a restaurant.  Last week I had the most amazing grilled redfish that was stuffed with lump crabmeat, served with a side of angel hair pasta and grilled shrimp.  Do I have your mouth watering yet?  Oh yeah!  It was like an orgasm on a plate folks!  So good.  If you ever visit New Orleans, visit "New Orleans Food & Spirits" the one located in "Bucktown" off Hammond Highway and you won't be disappointed. 

That's it.  That's all I have for now in my little corner of the universe.



Tell me something random about your week or a random thought about your day. 

Freedom Funnies

Please enjoy these above funny images as my gift to you for a belated Fourth of July holiday. Take a moment to smile or laugh. Why not? It's a free country (for now) and we all could use a chuckle!


I hope to catch up with you soon.   My time has not been my own lately.  I've dedicated all of my free moments during the past week to my nieces, nephew and other relatives.  I've not yet had time to upload photos from our holiday or recent vacation.  My brain has been clouded with insomnia for four days so I can't reflect upon our nation's freedom or the meaning of independence either.  However, this week should be more 'normal' and I look forward to putting thought into my posts and to visiting your sites soon! 

Happy Independence Day! 

  

Tweens Vs. Toddlers (and a photo diary too)

As I mentioned in my last post, I'm keeping my eleven (almost twelve) year old niece Kristen this week.  I've dubbed it "Aunt Mandy's Camp" and I'm trying my best to keep the activities fun and flowing all day long. 

In the mean time, my niece Kristen is educating me on what it's like to be "practically a teenager."  (her words).  She's been teaching me about what is cool, funny and hot.  Also, things that are most certainly not. 

So here are a few differences (that I've noticed) between my tween niece and my toddler daughter: 

Tween: Beating your two year old cousin and 31-year old aunt at bowling (or any other sport) is cool.
vs.
Toddler: Everything is cool, even toilet seats and drains in public restrooms.


(Kristen keeps score at the bowling alley).


Tween: Justin Bieber is hot!  He's the most talented and best looking singer around!
vs.
Toddler: Elmo is hot.  He's even the color red.  He's the most talented and best looking singer around!

(Note: For nearly an hour each day, Kristen plays Justin Bieber videos on youtube!  Can I just say that I'm sick to death of this boy and I have only just met him!?)



Tween: Helping Aunt Mandy bake brownies and licking the bowl filled with batter is cool.
vs.
Toddler: Not eating is cool.  Or feeding the dog the food I drop on the floor is even better.



(Kristen helps Aunt Mandy make brownies).



(Her only request is to lick the bowl afterwards!)


Tween: Being the only girl in school with bangs in the hair is NOT cool. 
vs.
Toddler: Who care about hair? Someday I'll get some.  Until then, I don't even want it brushed nor do I want to wear bows in it.



Tween: Speaking of style, how you look is very important.  The way you dress is important in school if you want to be popular.  I want to be thin.  Exercising is important.
vs.
Toddler: I like to wear things that don't match.  I don't care what others think of me.  At all. 


(Who cares if my clothes don't match?  Not me!  I think I look good!)


Tween: My parents are annoying and they can aggravate me easily.
vs.
Toddler: I love my mommy.  Daddy is okay too.  I like having them around all the time!



Tween: I like to boss around and annoy the pets in the house.
vs.
Toddler: I like to boss around and annoy the pets in the house. 
(Yep, they are the same!)


(Kristen loves playing around with Sammy cat).



Tween: Drawing and creating artwork takes dedication and time.  It should be done perfectly.
vs.
Toddler: I like to throw any color on this piece.  I just want to get my hands dirty and make a mess.


(Vivian and Kristen show off their artistic sides at a pottery painting class).




(Vivian likes using lots of colors with no real thought behind it).


(Kristen paints a beautiful portrait of dolphins, a palm tree and the sun setting).



Tween: Kristen just wants my attention and enjoys talking to me.
vs.
Toddler: Vivian just wants my attention and enjoys talking to me.
(Yep, they are the same!)



Tween: She is ticklish and has a great laugh.
vs.
Toddler: She is ticklish and has a great laugh.
(Yet another similarity!)



(Kristen and Viv engage in a tickle wrestling match!)



Tween: Kristen wants to listen to the radio and sing along to tunes in the car.  With her cool sunglasses on.
vs.
Toddler: Viv wants to make up her own songs and sounds.  She would rather point at stop signs and airplanes.  With her finger in her mouth and drool on her chin.



Tween: Kristin tells me she likes being here and is having a fun time.  Before I tuck her into bed, she says "I love you."
vs.
Toddler: Vivian tells me she loves me and is having a good time.  She gives me lots of hugs and kisses before I put her into bed.



(Me with my two girls this week!  Aunt Mandy camp is almost complete.)


So, perhaps tweens and toddlers really aren't that different after all?!  One thing is for sure -- both of my girls hold a special place in my heart.  I sure enjoyed hanging out with them this week and I love them both to pieces.  I hope that I'll always be the awesome mom or cool "Aunt Mandy."