Fresh Start

I won't comment on how often I make this statement with a blog. So, in lieu of past regrets, let us BEGIN.

begin: to do the first part of an action. go into the first part of a process. to come into existence. to have a starting point. to set about the activity of. to bring into being.

This is my word for 2012. A la Ali Edwards' annual One Little Word.

I am starting the year beginning many new things: a Read-the-Bible-In-One-Year plan; a house that is in utter disary, needing much love and attention; a body that also needs love and attention with new foods and exercise; existence without a full-time job; and lastly ... a new baby.

A new life. "To come into existence." If that does not describe begin, I don't know what does. We are expecting our first child this summer. A miracle of preciousness. There are so many things I could say about this, but I am not quite ready to delve into those emotions in this forum. For now, I want to keep the first post of 2012 focused on what I hope for the coming 365 days.

So often I begin a project only to stop half way.

Hello, my name is The Queen of Unfinished Projects, it's lovely to meet you. 

Rather than beat myself up about this fact, focusing only on the tasks left to do, I am choosing to embrace what I am good at: starting something new. Begin. Perhaps if I find the positivity in this character attribute, I can carry the task to completion, rather than feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with myself for not finishing whatever it is that I am working on.

What will your word for 2012 be?

Here We Go!

Who knows what that was from? ;)

via IGN
Yes, yes, thank you Mario.

Here we go (again). A new take on the ol' blogeroo. Perhaps a regular posting schedule can come about.

There are several things I'd like to accomplish, and keeping track of them here seems like a viable option.

For example:

-Working on my photography, using methods learned from Karen Russell's Snapshots of a Good Life class
-Learning Photoshop
-Finishing projects I've started and not finished
-Bringing pins from Pinterst into reality
-Beginning (and concurrent thoughts on) a Bible Study
-Book discussions (with book goal list to cross off)

Just to name a few. I'm sure I can come up with more along the way.

A gigantor giveaway!

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme

TodaysMama and GameStop are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What is your holiday wish for your family?
patience, safety, contentment
2. What is your Christmas morning tradition?
stockings are opened first, followed by the Santa presents (gifts between family and friends have already been exchanged and opened the night before)
3. If you could ask Santa for one, completely decadent wish for yourself, what would it be? 
an iPhone or an xbox kinect
4. How do you make the holidays special without spending any money?
I don't think I've ever been able to accomplish not spending ANY money...
5. What games did you play with your family growing up?
my dad would always get us a puzzle and a board game every Christmas, and over the holiday break, my mom and I would work on the puzzle.
6. What holiday tradition have you carried on from your own childhood?
Christmas Eve present opening, Santa presents on Christmas morning, church Christmas Eve, several others as well
7. Where would you go for a Christmas-away-from-home trip?
Somewhere in a forest or the mountains, with lots of pure snow, quiet and natural surroundings. As long as my family was all there too!
8. Check out GameStop (link to: http://bit.ly/gamestop10) and tell us, what are the three top items on your GameStop Wish List this year? 
 xbox 360 w/ kinect, Call of Duty Black Ops, Rock Band 3 (and components)


Fingers crossed for a win!

Open Letter #1

Dear Attendee of UW Men's Hockey Game Who Happened to Sit in the Same Row As Me,
This must have been the first hockey game you've ever attended, because you obviously are unaware of common game etiquette. So common that it's posted on signs as you walk into the arena. One of the most important rules being, wait until a break in the play to find your seat. Perhaps if you had ever attended a professional game, you would have known this, since the ushers actually stop you from entering the seating area until play has stopped.
Because, really, when there is a power play on our half of the rink in favor of my (our) team, they are in the process of attempting to score, and you walk in front of me, it does not make me happy. So unhappy even, I am ashamed to admit that I spoke unkindly at you. Not towards you, but at you. I'm sure you heard me as you squeezed by, because when you left again 2 minutes later (!) you gave me a look of confused hatred.
I might have gotten over this blunder, had you not committed it again, later on in the game.
Next time, you need to be a little more considerate of the other spectators. Consider this your warning. If it happens again, you just might find yourself on the other side of the railing.
Sincerely,
A Disgruntled Season Ticket Holder
P.S. I'm only kidding about the railing part. But seriously. Don't do it again.

Random Bits, Odds, and Various Ends

Antiquing with my mom was much more fun than going it alone - especially since she knew what things were that I had no idea of, as well as if something was a good deal (yay basket!). I came home with 2 wire gym/locker baskets, a large, heavy pair of Milliner/Sewing (?) scissors - that may still cut, a gold bracelet for my Halloween costume, and a large wicker laundry basket to be used as quilt storage. I'll get some pictures on here once everything is cleaned up.
While I was out the other day, I found a few pieces for Pete's Halloween costume at JT Puffins, Halloween Express and TJ Maxx. It's coming along, slowly but surely. As for my costume, we're waiting on a sewing machine part to come in for a particular edging stitch. My mom is so nice to get this sewing foot just for me. :)  {Thanks mom!}
Last night Pete insisted on buying a RiffTrax and watching the corresponding movie: Twilight. Which, yes I own. If you are not familiar with it, RiffTrax is a recording of a couple people making fun of a movie - that you play right along side of the movie, so you hear both the movie and the poking fun. They started with Mystery Science Theater 3000 (also known as MST3K). I have to say, this kind of humor is more Pete's style, but over the years it has grown on me. The first half was much funnier than the later half, so it was a tad disappointing the hilarity level didn't keep up throughout the full length, but, overall, not a bad $3.99 spent.
Today: Listening to various Phantom of the Opera tracks, reading The Essential Garden Design Workbook, 2nd ed. (for some reason, as I have no yard in which to plant a garden), cleaning up antique treasures, watching a few eBay bids, house cleaning (as always) and possibly a walk in the fall weather.

Hello October

One of my favorite people to watch and blogs to read, Ali Edwards, is teaching a class on Big Picture Scrapbooking (another great resource). Of course I couldn't pass up this opportunity to take a class of hers! Today is the start of class, Yesterday & Today; "to help you meaningfully document and celebrate life by looking to the past before approaching the stories of today." I cannot wait!

Today: Switching the thermostat to heat, wearing a cozy sweater, antiquing with my mom, and Lifegroup later tonight.

Bring on the cocoa and warm cider!

Photoshop

Awhile back, I got a good deal on Photoshop Elements 7 from Costco, as well as a good deal on an intro to pSE7 book from Barnes & Noble. The thing is, I was so excited to get it, having waited for so long, that I promptly did nothing with it. Which totally doesn't make much sense. So, one of my goals is to begin reading the book and following along in PSE so I can become acquainted with the program and actually start to use it. Preferably by the end of the 2009.
But first, I must find the disc and re-install it, as my computer crashed a month ago and I lost some applications. That's what I get for not having a virus-protector installed. {sigh}

Cleaning

I've been wanting to get our living space to such a place that all it needs is a little bit of work every day to keep it tidy and clean. This desire has been ongoing since... like forever. I came across a website that seems to lead one to this goal. I have tried off an on, but never stuck with it. FLYlady.net is indeed a good starting point. I'm curious if any of my blog readers have any ideas or suggestions about cleaning and keeping a tidy house. (There are only 2 of you aren't there?) ;)

Mondays

For some reason, if I am going to start something new or start something again, it always seems I wait for a Monday. Even though Sunday is technically the first day of the week. Same thing with 1sts of months - start something on the first of the following month. It may be procrastination, but also I like things to be neat, (although you may not think that if you were to look at our apartment right now) and having a beginning on the start of the week just seems orderly.
Fields of Gold by Allard One Photo: Fields of Gold by Allard One

Halloween Costume Beginnings

One might think that contemplating Halloween in July is a tad crazy. But I would disagree. That is, if you plan to put some thought into it. :) Which I do, thank you very much. By starting now, I give myself time to shop for sales and use coupons for the various components of what I want to do. Some things are "in season" during other times of the year than October.

That being said, I have indeed made my costume decision. I am going to go as Annia Aurelia Galeria Lucilla, daughter of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelias; also known as Lucilla, from the movie, Gladiator. Because this is a little more complex and involved than your average wrap-a-sheet-around-yourself-with-a-safety-pin toga, I will more than likely wear it for more than just one Halloween.

At this stage in the game, I've only started my research of the costume, but have made some significant strides. I will post my progress here, along with the final version, once completed.

Here are some internet-provided images, as well as another Lucilla costume research site, which was the most helpful online source. It was a good jumping off point to the rest of my research.

This other costume research site is here, with some screenshots/screencaps as well as promotional photos.

Lucilla4

Photo: oncourse.iu.edu

Portr-lucilla3 Photo: romancoins.info

Halfbodyshot
Photo: dianethegeek.com

I began with general artwork/statues from the Roman era - evidence of the drape-y outfits.

Followed by internet searches for proper terminology of the dress pieces.

Which in turn led to the library searches. Extensive amounts of books about Rome, only one so far has yielded any assistance, Ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine Costume & Decoration, Second Edition, by Mary G. Houston, published in 1931. It has illustrations as well as descriptions of what the various pieces of dress were. An excellent resource, highly recommended if you want to recreate an outfit from any of those time periods.

Next time I'll go over more images and some of my specific research findings.

Locked

I've been locked out of my Typepad account for a week or two - hence the non posts. But I'm back now. So, hi!

Jumpology

I've been on Photojojo's mailing list for awhile now, and one of the subjects a few years ago was jumping - a sure fire way to get smiles! One of the links in the article led me to a Smithsonian article about the founder of the jumping photograph, Philippe Halsman. Which in turn led me to his book, titled Philippe Halsman's Jump Book, published in 1959, which I am currently reading. An inspiring book and concept, I thought we could try it out!
IMG_2175-2 IMG_2176-2

(Disclaimer - these first two photos were my first attempts at this concept of Jumpology - as such, the flash is a little strong and the backgrounds are so unspectacular, as it is simply the kitchen/hallway. That little yellow thing which I could have/should have photoshopped out is half of an Easter egg for the cat.)

Later, Pete and I went for a walk through one of the local parks around sunset, which gave some interesting lighting as well as swarms of, guess what, mosquitoes. (Ugh. So tired of them.)

IMG_2180-2 IMG_2182-2

I have to say, this could be a fun way to document the journey of life.

Today: A little road trip to Cambridge with mom, grocery planning, and possibly some more laundry.

Text the Bocce Fire

Yesterday was a wonderfully tiring day full of money spending and time spending in the out-of-doors. After researching phones online for several hours, I narrowed my choices of a new phone down to two for me and three for Pete. The problem was I had a hard time navigating one of the two and was vetoed on the other. I was told 'no' to the beautiful iphone, and ended up with the Samsung Eternity.
SAM_EternityBlack_color_front
Photo: AT&T

Which, by the way, after playing with it all day, is still a pretty sweet phone. I now have a full QWERTY keyboard and can text all fast and proper and not get seriously annoyed by the mutli-tap process. Pete chose the Samsung a777 in orange, which he loves. (The phone and the color.)SAM_a777Orange_color_openFront

Photo: AT&T

It only took an hour to pick them out and two different stores and two transactions to make the transfer to a new carrier. Thankfully, the store locations were close which also led us to lunch at Panera.

Afterward, we grabbed the cat and headed over to my mom and dad's for the rest of the afternoon. We bathed kitty, but only got in one Burn Notice, one Top Sniper, and one Barefoot Contessa before dinner. But by then we were ready for some time outside since the weather was so nice. A new bocce ball set was broken in, but for this lawn game, I was unable to demonstrate any kind of prowess on my part. [Shame] [Gloom]

Pete suggested a fire in the fire pit and a half an hour later, we were swatting mosquitoes again. With the moon as bright as it was, we dragged out the binoculars and telescope to check it out. This sparked some interest in the possibility of a visit to the Planetarium/Observatory. Perhaps in the near future.

Today: House chores, new phone exploration, cat medication application (how exciting), and more photo scanning.

Friends + Family

Whenever someone uses the "+" symbol, I never know immediately if they meant it to be read as ____ plus ____, or ____ and _____. In this case, I mean "and". As in friends and family. &.

Just so we're all on the same page.

I am so thankful that I had yesterday off from work, so that I could accompany my husband to Milwaukee to visit our friends and family. It seems that whenever we go to R&L's, we're the first ones there - at least that's how it's been the last two times. Hey, at least we're prompt! We must be channeling Zuko, Azula, Ty Lee and Mai. ;) 10 points to anyone who knows what I'm referring to.

Grilling is so much more fun when you have people to do it with, especially when you can hang around outside while it's happening. Not to mention, sampling the new blue Mountain Dew! I have to say, I've never grilled my 'mallows for smores - usually they're roasted over a campfire. But dudes, SMORES! How awesome are they? Delish.

After trying my hand at two new games - Yard Toss and Rock Band, Pete and I headed out to a family member's house for more grilled meat product and salad and soda. At that point in the evening I was stuffed and sadly did not have any more room for the yummy looking eats. By then the state bird had made its appearance and much swatting and scratching ensued. (And by state bird I mean the mosquito.) A yard toss game was also present, at which cousin T and I won all three games we played!


Big thanks to the Rob(b)s who hosted parties yesterday!

Today: New cell phones with a new provider for less money, but hopefully the same phone numbers. An easy-going Sunday with my fam and catching up on Burn Notice. Oh and the cat will finally be getting her bath.

BEES!

Well, bee, actually. I discovered one buzzing in the transom window above the walkout doors.

What is it with bees infiltrating my apartment?! I mean, c'mon. The last apartment we were in, 3 years ago, I had 4 bee-type-wasp things make an appearance.

I truly hope this is not a recurring theme.

It's a Hope Update!

A month ago, Pete and I attended a live telecast by Dave Ramsey, Town Hall for Hope, a message about hope in the current economy's storm of fear. The video is up on hulu (my TV replacement) and available to watch for free. I highly encourage anyone reading this to watch it, and head over to his website if this sounds like something that interests you. It's an hour and 40 minutes, so watch when you've got some time. You can watch it in standard resolution or high resolution, it is up to you.

The Freshest

A few weeks ago, Pete and I went downtown to the Farmer's Market on the square, but didn't arrive until 10am or so and it was the first weekend opening of the season, so there wasn't much there. I've wanted to go earlier, but could never get myself up at 6 to do so.
Today, was another story. Since Pete didn't want to wake at such an hour on the weekend, I figured I'd try a different market than the downtown one.  Driving in the rain, I headed out to the FM in Middleton. Unfortunately I must have had the wrong address or wrong date, because I couldn't find anything.  Maybe another location would bear fruit (haha)...so I tried another place that is supposed to have a FM. But no, the second location was a dud too. I ended up taking a different way home, and ironically, stumbled upon white tents! With vegetables! And honey! And milk! A real Farmer's Market! By now, it's pouring. Of course.
The good thing with the rain is that not many people were out, so I only had to wait in line behind one person in one booth. On the other hand, I was completely soaked by the end of the trip.  I think my favorite encounter was with a vendor who was about 13 or 14, very polite but rather unhelpful. When I asked what kind of lettuce a particularly beautiful chartreuse head was, he laughed and said, "Oh, no! Don't ask me that! I'm not sure what kind it is, but Mother likes it best."  So I think to myself, well, if "Mother" likes that one best, I can't go wrong!
And I now have some deliciously fresh produce, bread, eggs, honey and preserves. Excellent.

Well ya see, it's like this

I sort of fell off the face of the blogearth. But I do have some fantastical news!
Yes, our house has sold, we closed on Wednesday, May 13, and the paperwork was finalized on Friday, May 15. The payoffs went through yesterday, and our mortgage accounts are at $0. (ZERO!) Yes, I know that is how it works when you sell a house, your mortgage(s) get paid off. It's just crazy to actually see that balance.
While we took a huge hit in the price and ended up having to pay (literally) to get rid of the place, it is no longer our responsibility, no longer a weight dragging us down. It is a monetary setback, and we are now back at square one with savings and debt reduction. On the other hand, we have gained valuable experience and knowledge. So, it's done.
Thank you everyone who was praying for us for the last year about our house!
Secondly, I have a job interview on Friday, which is really encouraging, especially following the situation with the house. So, more prayers requested, if you're willing to send 'em up!
Thanks for stickin' with me if you're still reading this blog, I really appreciate it!

Hope on the Horizon

This evening we will be attending Dave Ramsey's Town Hall for Hope, a message about the economy and what we can hope for.

Happy Earth Day

Such a generic title. I know.
I'd like to get to this movie opening today, to celebrate. Surprisingly, Amazon alerted me to this, as opposed to Disney itself, even though I am on the Disney mailing list. Huh. Probably because I bought Planet Earth off of Amazon.  :)

UPDATE: I wish I could demand a refund of my $16.50. If by "the next chapter" they mean the identical footage already shot and produced and released in Planet Earth... then sure.
Having seen everything already - it was a disappointment. Even more so it was frustrating and irritating, as they gave human emotions to animals and added supremely tacky/stale/used/generic dramatic music, ruining the natural majesty of the animals themselves. They pretty much tried to cram the entire 5 disc set into 90 minutes - it was such a disarray of scenes... 10 seconds or so for each. Ugh. Disjointed. Not to mention the narration by James Earl Jones was flat, lacking the deep, gravely, rock-solid pitch he usually has...and that all his lines were either verbatim from Planet Earth, or so dumbed down it was scoffable.
I think the worst part was when the "daddy" polar bear didn't make it, "but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his young ones". There was an identical audible exclamation of disbelief and disgust from Pete and myself. (You're kidding me, right?)