Saturday, February 26th 2011
D and I went on a walk downtown today to do a little shopping after breakfast. This is my ideal day! Brunch with D, walking around, shopping and maybe a cocktail or two along the way. Down the sidewalk, we came up behind a man who has some kind of disability, you could tell by the way he was walking. He was moving along quickly, but it didn't look easy. When we got closer to him, he turned around and looked at me.
I said, "Hi there" in a friendly voice and smiled. "Hi" he said back.
It's amazing how good it can feel just to say hi to a stranger you pass on the street.
Peace :)
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Miss K's Birthday
Friday, February 25th 2011
Our friends are getting together for Miss K's birthday tonight at a restaurant near my work. D picked me up and we had plenty of time to stop at the store to pick up a card & gift for her. D did a nice job choosing a funny card right away. I usually take 10 minutes to find the right card for someone, but I let him decide this time and it saved us a lot of time.
We thought about a bottle of wine for a gift, but then I remembered she just got a new phone and a gift card for music on her phone would be perfect! So, we bought that and then signed the card out in the car before going into the restaurant. I'm always afraid the person I'm signing the card for will catch me putting their gift together at the last possible minute in my car, but it's not a big deal right? This has been a crazier week than usual so that's my reasoning for putting this together so late. Usually I don't have an excuse.
Peace :)
Our friends are getting together for Miss K's birthday tonight at a restaurant near my work. D picked me up and we had plenty of time to stop at the store to pick up a card & gift for her. D did a nice job choosing a funny card right away. I usually take 10 minutes to find the right card for someone, but I let him decide this time and it saved us a lot of time.
We thought about a bottle of wine for a gift, but then I remembered she just got a new phone and a gift card for music on her phone would be perfect! So, we bought that and then signed the card out in the car before going into the restaurant. I'm always afraid the person I'm signing the card for will catch me putting their gift together at the last possible minute in my car, but it's not a big deal right? This has been a crazier week than usual so that's my reasoning for putting this together so late. Usually I don't have an excuse.
Peace :)
Cup of Coffee
Thursday, February 24th 2011
We woke up to snow this morning just as predicted! Well, not quite as much as the weathermen predicted, but a little over an inch. D gave me a ride downtown so I could take the train to work since my car couldn't make it down the hill from his parent's house.
I walked past a homeless man wrapped up in a blanket as I was going into the coffee shop. He stopped me and asked if I could get him a hot cup of coffee.
"Yes, maybe." I responded with my usual indefinite answer. I don't want to commit in case he's not there when I come out (which has happened before). So I feel better if I don't make a promise, but in this case I had the intention to buy him a cup of coffee and did just that.
I got a large size in hopes it will help warm him up a little on this cold, snowy day. I'm just now thinking I should have got him a pastry for breakfast too. I'll remember that next time. He thanked me and held the warm cup in his hands with his blanket around his shoulders.
Peace :)
We woke up to snow this morning just as predicted! Well, not quite as much as the weathermen predicted, but a little over an inch. D gave me a ride downtown so I could take the train to work since my car couldn't make it down the hill from his parent's house.
I walked past a homeless man wrapped up in a blanket as I was going into the coffee shop. He stopped me and asked if I could get him a hot cup of coffee.
"Yes, maybe." I responded with my usual indefinite answer. I don't want to commit in case he's not there when I come out (which has happened before). So I feel better if I don't make a promise, but in this case I had the intention to buy him a cup of coffee and did just that.
I got a large size in hopes it will help warm him up a little on this cold, snowy day. I'm just now thinking I should have got him a pastry for breakfast too. I'll remember that next time. He thanked me and held the warm cup in his hands with his blanket around his shoulders.
Peace :)
$2, Tulips, Wine & Cookies
Wednesday, February 23rd 2011
Happy birthday I.D. and Miss C! Hope it's a great day for both of you...
We are now running on power from a generator at the condo, but the water still isn't on. I thought about staying home tonight, but without a shower or flushing capability, it could've been rough. So I called D's mom to see if we could stay over for the 2nd night in a row. "I left the bed up just for you in case you needed to!" She answered so welcoming.
To complicate things a little more, we are expecting to get a few inches of snow tonight! D's parents live at a higher elevation and my car won't make it up and down the hills, so we'll see what happens tomorrow.
But in case I get stranded on my way there, I stopped to fill up with gas first. It was so cold outside and since people were being so generous with me, I wanted to give back. So I got out $2 and gave to the man filling up my gas tank. He looked down at it as he was walking away and then he started to jog! It felt so good to see his reaction.
After that, I stopped at the store to pick up some wine for D's parents and a bunch of tulips for D's mom. I was feeling so good that I just wanted to do more and more for others. I talked to a lady on the wine aisle who I met again on the candy aisle and then she ended up behind me at the checkout counter, so we were laughing about that.
Luckily for me, the girl scouts were selling cookies outside, so I bought a box of those too and took off up the hill!
Peace :)
Happy birthday I.D. and Miss C! Hope it's a great day for both of you...
We are now running on power from a generator at the condo, but the water still isn't on. I thought about staying home tonight, but without a shower or flushing capability, it could've been rough. So I called D's mom to see if we could stay over for the 2nd night in a row. "I left the bed up just for you in case you needed to!" She answered so welcoming.
To complicate things a little more, we are expecting to get a few inches of snow tonight! D's parents live at a higher elevation and my car won't make it up and down the hills, so we'll see what happens tomorrow.
But in case I get stranded on my way there, I stopped to fill up with gas first. It was so cold outside and since people were being so generous with me, I wanted to give back. So I got out $2 and gave to the man filling up my gas tank. He looked down at it as he was walking away and then he started to jog! It felt so good to see his reaction.
After that, I stopped at the store to pick up some wine for D's parents and a bunch of tulips for D's mom. I was feeling so good that I just wanted to do more and more for others. I talked to a lady on the wine aisle who I met again on the candy aisle and then she ended up behind me at the checkout counter, so we were laughing about that.
Luckily for me, the girl scouts were selling cookies outside, so I bought a box of those too and took off up the hill!
Peace :)
Yellow Caution Tape
Tuesday, February 22nd 2011
There was a small fire in the basement of our condo building today which led to the shutting off of our power & water starting today and ending who knows when. When I got home tonight, I thought it would be back on but the building and the entire block was pitch dark. It was kind of spooky because there were big trucks, bright lights, loud construction noises, and workers all around. It felt like I was in a movie where something bad happens and when all the residents come home from work, they find they are locked out of their home due to the hazardous event.
I was walking by the parking garage where it looked like a woman was driving her car out of a black hole (the driveway to the basement was so dark I don't know how she made it out but she did). There was yellow caution tape tied across the garage and no one was allowed to drive in. She was about to get out and move the tape or something when a man standing near held up one end and it only made sense that I would hold up the other end.
So there we stood, holding the tape up as high as we could, which was just high enough for her car to drive under.
This wasn't exactly the night I was expecting to have, but it sure is an interesting one!
Peace :)
There was a small fire in the basement of our condo building today which led to the shutting off of our power & water starting today and ending who knows when. When I got home tonight, I thought it would be back on but the building and the entire block was pitch dark. It was kind of spooky because there were big trucks, bright lights, loud construction noises, and workers all around. It felt like I was in a movie where something bad happens and when all the residents come home from work, they find they are locked out of their home due to the hazardous event.
I was walking by the parking garage where it looked like a woman was driving her car out of a black hole (the driveway to the basement was so dark I don't know how she made it out but she did). There was yellow caution tape tied across the garage and no one was allowed to drive in. She was about to get out and move the tape or something when a man standing near held up one end and it only made sense that I would hold up the other end.
So there we stood, holding the tape up as high as we could, which was just high enough for her car to drive under.
This wasn't exactly the night I was expecting to have, but it sure is an interesting one!
Peace :)
Car For Sale Scam
Monday, February 21st 2011
Both my dad and brother are in the market for a new vehicle (new to them I mean, not necessarily a "new" car). I decided to go online and do a little searching for them and found what was a too-good-to-be-true advertisement. It was the perfect pick-up truck for only $2,999!! I thought- what do I have to lose? The lady selling it is named Margaret and she just posted the ad a few minutes ago. This could be good...
So I sent Margaret an email to inquire about the pick-up. I was pretty excited to tell D about it when he got home, but he didn't give me quite the reaction I was expecting. He knew it was most likely a scam. "But maybe it's real!" I replied with high hopes.
Sure enough, about an hour later I received a long email reply to say they would ship the vehicle to me from Alaska and I'd have 5 days to return it if I didn't like it. On and on the email went, and D said his friend received the exact same email a few days prior! I went back online and the ad was gone- probably because they had already been reported.
Oh well. I'll keep trying!
Peace :)
Both my dad and brother are in the market for a new vehicle (new to them I mean, not necessarily a "new" car). I decided to go online and do a little searching for them and found what was a too-good-to-be-true advertisement. It was the perfect pick-up truck for only $2,999!! I thought- what do I have to lose? The lady selling it is named Margaret and she just posted the ad a few minutes ago. This could be good...
So I sent Margaret an email to inquire about the pick-up. I was pretty excited to tell D about it when he got home, but he didn't give me quite the reaction I was expecting. He knew it was most likely a scam. "But maybe it's real!" I replied with high hopes.
Sure enough, about an hour later I received a long email reply to say they would ship the vehicle to me from Alaska and I'd have 5 days to return it if I didn't like it. On and on the email went, and D said his friend received the exact same email a few days prior! I went back online and the ad was gone- probably because they had already been reported.
Oh well. I'll keep trying!
Peace :)
Monday, February 21, 2011
Crab Bisque Soup
Sunday, February 20th 2011
My mom is coming up today to go with me to pick up my wedding dress! I am so excited about it and can't wait to try it on again.
Earlier this week I bought the ingredients to make crab bisque soup that I planned to give my mom so she can make it at home for her and my dad. At the last minute this morning, I realized I didn't buy the fresh crab yet (I didn't want to buy it too far in advance) so I hurried to the store and picked it up just in time. As I turned the corner at my house, my mom was at the intersection too!
I had the ingredients set out on the counter to show her, along with a few other goodies (pictures & candles). I think she is excited to make the soup. I know I would be excited to eat it :)
Peace :)
My mom is coming up today to go with me to pick up my wedding dress! I am so excited about it and can't wait to try it on again.
Earlier this week I bought the ingredients to make crab bisque soup that I planned to give my mom so she can make it at home for her and my dad. At the last minute this morning, I realized I didn't buy the fresh crab yet (I didn't want to buy it too far in advance) so I hurried to the store and picked it up just in time. As I turned the corner at my house, my mom was at the intersection too!
I had the ingredients set out on the counter to show her, along with a few other goodies (pictures & candles). I think she is excited to make the soup. I know I would be excited to eat it :)
Peace :)
French Cookbook
Saturday, February 19th 2011
My friend, Miss C is celebrating her 30th birthday tonight at a party thrown by her sister. The invite said "No Gifts" but I don't like going to a party without taking something. And this is my friend of 22 years! The only thing is, what if I'm the only one to show up with a gift? That's awkward too.
So after stressing for the past 5 days, I decided to walk down to the bookstore and pick up a French cookbook for her. I think she'll love it, especially since she's into French cooking right now and I didn't notice any French cookbooks on her shelf the other night when we were over for dinner.
I wrapped it in a pretty bag and wrote a note inside the front cover. Now I just hope I'm not the only one to show up with a gift!
Peace :)
My friend, Miss C is celebrating her 30th birthday tonight at a party thrown by her sister. The invite said "No Gifts" but I don't like going to a party without taking something. And this is my friend of 22 years! The only thing is, what if I'm the only one to show up with a gift? That's awkward too.
So after stressing for the past 5 days, I decided to walk down to the bookstore and pick up a French cookbook for her. I think she'll love it, especially since she's into French cooking right now and I didn't notice any French cookbooks on her shelf the other night when we were over for dinner.
I wrapped it in a pretty bag and wrote a note inside the front cover. Now I just hope I'm not the only one to show up with a gift!
Peace :)
Nail in Garage
Friday, February 18th 2011
As I was walking through the parking garage this morning, I kicked a steel nail on the ground by accident. I heard it "clink" and looked down to see what it was. I left it there and kept walking toward my car. About 1/2 a second later, I thought- I remember stepping on a nail as a youngster and it went right through my foot! What if this somehow hurts someone or if a car drives over it and gets a flat tire?
The chances are probably slim, but I turned around and went back to pick it up (the whole 5 steps it was). We'll never know what could have happened, but I felt good picking it up and preventing the possibility of perhaps, nothing...or something.
Peace :)
As I was walking through the parking garage this morning, I kicked a steel nail on the ground by accident. I heard it "clink" and looked down to see what it was. I left it there and kept walking toward my car. About 1/2 a second later, I thought- I remember stepping on a nail as a youngster and it went right through my foot! What if this somehow hurts someone or if a car drives over it and gets a flat tire?
The chances are probably slim, but I turned around and went back to pick it up (the whole 5 steps it was). We'll never know what could have happened, but I felt good picking it up and preventing the possibility of perhaps, nothing...or something.
Peace :)
Rambunctious Kids
Thursday, February 17th 2011
Back at SMART today, the kids were rambunctious! I think they must have just finished gym class or something.
I had a difficult time getting my student to focus on the book he picked out and asked me to read. It's an interesting feeling to be a volunteer trying to help out because how much can you try to make the kids sit down and mind you? I don't think they want me scolding the boy, but at the same time, it's a waste of time to sit there while he does everything but read in the 30 minutes I have with him. I did my best to be patient and just start reading to him, rather than him reading to me.
I ended up reading the book quickly cover to cover and then he was excited to get to the "I Spy" book full of hidden pictures we have to look for. Maybe I don't like that book too much because I have a hard time finding the hidden items?
Peace :)
Back at SMART today, the kids were rambunctious! I think they must have just finished gym class or something.
I had a difficult time getting my student to focus on the book he picked out and asked me to read. It's an interesting feeling to be a volunteer trying to help out because how much can you try to make the kids sit down and mind you? I don't think they want me scolding the boy, but at the same time, it's a waste of time to sit there while he does everything but read in the 30 minutes I have with him. I did my best to be patient and just start reading to him, rather than him reading to me.
I ended up reading the book quickly cover to cover and then he was excited to get to the "I Spy" book full of hidden pictures we have to look for. Maybe I don't like that book too much because I have a hard time finding the hidden items?
Peace :)
Sugar Substitute for Gramps
Wednesday, February 16th 2011
My Grandfather called the other day to see if I could look for the sugar-free sugar substitute he likes. I haven't looked for it in about a year because they stopped selling it nearly 4 years ago and it's been impossible to find since, however it's not a bad idea to see if it's back on the market today.
I searched and searched online getting my hopes up when I found some information on it, only to be crushed to see the article was written in 2007. I did find more of a different brand that I baked him a cake with last year and I think I'll order more of that for now and see if his favorite brand comes back one day soon.
I'll keep trying Gramps!
Peace :)
My Grandfather called the other day to see if I could look for the sugar-free sugar substitute he likes. I haven't looked for it in about a year because they stopped selling it nearly 4 years ago and it's been impossible to find since, however it's not a bad idea to see if it's back on the market today.
I searched and searched online getting my hopes up when I found some information on it, only to be crushed to see the article was written in 2007. I did find more of a different brand that I baked him a cake with last year and I think I'll order more of that for now and see if his favorite brand comes back one day soon.
I'll keep trying Gramps!
Peace :)
Book Contest at SMART
Tuesday, February 15th 2011
I missed last week's SMART reading due to a 3-hr training at work, so this week I'm volunteering twice- today and this coming Thursday. I'm not required to, but I know they are short on Thursday readers so I offered. I would do it every Thursday, but with the travel time it takes about 1.5 hours and with things so busy at work, that's tough to do 2 times a week.
But today was great. They're having a book contest where each student reads 6 nominated books- one of them a childhood favorite of mine- "Goodnight Moon". So Mr. J finished his 6th book today and voted on his favorite which happened to be the one we read today! "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day"
I am wondering if he picked it because it's fresh in his mind since he hasn't seen the others in 1-2 weeks or if he really liked it the best. It's probably the same with the other kids too. We'll see which one wins!
Peace :)
I missed last week's SMART reading due to a 3-hr training at work, so this week I'm volunteering twice- today and this coming Thursday. I'm not required to, but I know they are short on Thursday readers so I offered. I would do it every Thursday, but with the travel time it takes about 1.5 hours and with things so busy at work, that's tough to do 2 times a week.
But today was great. They're having a book contest where each student reads 6 nominated books- one of them a childhood favorite of mine- "Goodnight Moon". So Mr. J finished his 6th book today and voted on his favorite which happened to be the one we read today! "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day"
I am wondering if he picked it because it's fresh in his mind since he hasn't seen the others in 1-2 weeks or if he really liked it the best. It's probably the same with the other kids too. We'll see which one wins!
Peace :)
Valentine's Day Dinner
Monday, February 14th 2011
Happy Valentine's Day! Nearly every male I've talked to in the past couple days hasn't quite expressed the enthusiasm for the holiday the same way the females have. Most guys say, "it's a way to make people spend money" and most of the girls are hoping for some well thought out romantic surprise from their honey. Why is this? Maybe we girls should celebrate the holiday by buying each other treats instead and take the pressure off of our male counterparts... ;)
As for celebrating this year, my friend invited us along with another couple over for a beautiful dinner tonight. We enjoyed a delicious meal of pasta, warmed kale & white bean salad, strawberries, champagne, chocolates and cupcakes for dessert (I brought the cupcakes & wine and Miss K brought the strawberries and chocolates)!
It turned out to be a really fun evening, sharing old stories and laughing a lot. Thanks Miss C for hosting a wonderful night!
Peace :)
Happy Valentine's Day! Nearly every male I've talked to in the past couple days hasn't quite expressed the enthusiasm for the holiday the same way the females have. Most guys say, "it's a way to make people spend money" and most of the girls are hoping for some well thought out romantic surprise from their honey. Why is this? Maybe we girls should celebrate the holiday by buying each other treats instead and take the pressure off of our male counterparts... ;)
As for celebrating this year, my friend invited us along with another couple over for a beautiful dinner tonight. We enjoyed a delicious meal of pasta, warmed kale & white bean salad, strawberries, champagne, chocolates and cupcakes for dessert (I brought the cupcakes & wine and Miss K brought the strawberries and chocolates)!
It turned out to be a really fun evening, sharing old stories and laughing a lot. Thanks Miss C for hosting a wonderful night!
Peace :)
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Knife
Sunday, February 13th 2011
D and I were browsing through a kitchen shop today and in the knife section, we found a knife that had come out of the package that could easily cut someone if they weren't paying attention. All the others were wrapped in heavy plastic, but this one had nothing to protect it, just a blade sticking out.
I pulled it off the shelf and brought it to the clerk's attention. He thanked me, started talking to someone else and then as I was walking away I saw him put it right back on the shelf! D started laughing and my eyes opened wide. I know it's not supposed to be that way because all of the others on the shelf were properly wrapped.
I don't know what else I could have done? I guess just hope that no one grabs it without caution.
Peace :)
D and I were browsing through a kitchen shop today and in the knife section, we found a knife that had come out of the package that could easily cut someone if they weren't paying attention. All the others were wrapped in heavy plastic, but this one had nothing to protect it, just a blade sticking out.
I pulled it off the shelf and brought it to the clerk's attention. He thanked me, started talking to someone else and then as I was walking away I saw him put it right back on the shelf! D started laughing and my eyes opened wide. I know it's not supposed to be that way because all of the others on the shelf were properly wrapped.
I don't know what else I could have done? I guess just hope that no one grabs it without caution.
Peace :)
Flower Girl & Ring Bearer
Saturday, February 12th 2011
Since we are having our wedding this summer, we need a flower girl and ring bearer and tonight was the night for us to ask D's brother and sister-in-law if their twin children would like to fill those roles.
They said they'd like to so now we are set! We'll decide what they should wear later, but for now we're glad to know they want to be in the wedding party.
Peace :)
Since we are having our wedding this summer, we need a flower girl and ring bearer and tonight was the night for us to ask D's brother and sister-in-law if their twin children would like to fill those roles.
They said they'd like to so now we are set! We'll decide what they should wear later, but for now we're glad to know they want to be in the wedding party.
Peace :)
Hour Glass
Friday, February 11th 2011
Valentine's Day is coming up and I have a little present ready to give D. I thought we'd exchange gifts later this weekend, but when I got home from work he had a surprise for me- a beautiful necklace!
So, I hurried back down to the garage where I was hiding his present in the trunk of my car, wrapped it quickly and brought it upstairs. He opened it to find a nice-sized hour glass with an attached stand. It is really cool and I found it at our favorite nautical home decoration store. I hope he likes it as much as I do :)
Happy Valentine's Day D!
Peace :)
Valentine's Day is coming up and I have a little present ready to give D. I thought we'd exchange gifts later this weekend, but when I got home from work he had a surprise for me- a beautiful necklace!
So, I hurried back down to the garage where I was hiding his present in the trunk of my car, wrapped it quickly and brought it upstairs. He opened it to find a nice-sized hour glass with an attached stand. It is really cool and I found it at our favorite nautical home decoration store. I hope he likes it as much as I do :)
Happy Valentine's Day D!
Peace :)
Participation
Thursday, February 10th 2011
We had another all-department meeting today with about 75 people in attendance. When I found out I had to participate in a role-play demonstration in front of everyone, I nearly fainted. I thought maybe I can sneak out and go home without anyone noticing. Or maybe I'll pass on the job to my co-worker next to me...
Well, none of that happened and I ended up doing what was planned. It wasn't as bad as I thought because at least I didn't have to speak (although I did have to speak when we introduced ourselves!). I remember hearing people laugh at me, but it didn't bother me. It kind of helped that I could laugh at myself too. With my face the color of a tomato no doubt about it.
Peace :)
We had another all-department meeting today with about 75 people in attendance. When I found out I had to participate in a role-play demonstration in front of everyone, I nearly fainted. I thought maybe I can sneak out and go home without anyone noticing. Or maybe I'll pass on the job to my co-worker next to me...
Well, none of that happened and I ended up doing what was planned. It wasn't as bad as I thought because at least I didn't have to speak (although I did have to speak when we introduced ourselves!). I remember hearing people laugh at me, but it didn't bother me. It kind of helped that I could laugh at myself too. With my face the color of a tomato no doubt about it.
Peace :)
Wednesday, February 9th 2011
After an all-department party directly after work at the bowling alley, I was exhausted and driving home at 9:30pm only to find my gas tank was near empty! I told myself I wasn't going to let it get low because it always seems inconvenient to stop when I have no choice.
Luckily there was a gas station right off the highway half-way home. I pulled up to the tank and a man came walking over at a pace that made me think I could fall asleep before he got to my window. He didn't say anything but I asked him to "fill it with regular" and he did.
He took a long time to put the nozzle away and grab my receipt, but I had a dollar ready to give him when he returned. He gave a slight nod and folded it up before placing in his pocket.
Let's see how fast I can get home and get to bed...
Peace :)
After an all-department party directly after work at the bowling alley, I was exhausted and driving home at 9:30pm only to find my gas tank was near empty! I told myself I wasn't going to let it get low because it always seems inconvenient to stop when I have no choice.
Luckily there was a gas station right off the highway half-way home. I pulled up to the tank and a man came walking over at a pace that made me think I could fall asleep before he got to my window. He didn't say anything but I asked him to "fill it with regular" and he did.
He took a long time to put the nozzle away and grab my receipt, but I had a dollar ready to give him when he returned. He gave a slight nod and folded it up before placing in his pocket.
Let's see how fast I can get home and get to bed...
Peace :)
Culinary School Dinner
Tuesday, February 8th 2011
A few weeks ago our friends made reservations for the 4 of us to have dinner at the culinary school not far from my house. D and I went before and had such a great experience, so our friends wanted to see what it's all about. However, tonight's experience wasn't quite the same as last time.
Our server was a little confused about things and to start the night off, he served me a bowl of beef stew which he said was their vegetarian "carrot and lentil" soup. Since I don't eat meat, this was a shocker to realize I was swallowing beef! I didn't want to bring it up, but the guys told him and he felt very sorry.
There were a few more mistakes throughout the night and I tried giving many compliments and was very nice to our server regardless of the way he was blaming others for the mishaps and all that went wrong.
In the end, we had a fun time and the best part with no errors was the dessert! We'll go back again someday and give it another try.
Peace :)
A few weeks ago our friends made reservations for the 4 of us to have dinner at the culinary school not far from my house. D and I went before and had such a great experience, so our friends wanted to see what it's all about. However, tonight's experience wasn't quite the same as last time.
Our server was a little confused about things and to start the night off, he served me a bowl of beef stew which he said was their vegetarian "carrot and lentil" soup. Since I don't eat meat, this was a shocker to realize I was swallowing beef! I didn't want to bring it up, but the guys told him and he felt very sorry.
There were a few more mistakes throughout the night and I tried giving many compliments and was very nice to our server regardless of the way he was blaming others for the mishaps and all that went wrong.
In the end, we had a fun time and the best part with no errors was the dessert! We'll go back again someday and give it another try.
Peace :)
Pedestrian
Monday, February 7th 2011
On my way to work this morning there were more pedestrians crossing the street in front of me than usual. I let the first 2 people go at the 4-way intersection, then I was ready to hit the gas pedal when I saw another pedestrian nearing the crosswalk. I could have easily gone, but decided to wait and let her go ahead.
It was a cold dark morning afterall and I was warm in my car with the heat on, music playing and coffee in the cup holder. Why rush?
Peace :)
On my way to work this morning there were more pedestrians crossing the street in front of me than usual. I let the first 2 people go at the 4-way intersection, then I was ready to hit the gas pedal when I saw another pedestrian nearing the crosswalk. I could have easily gone, but decided to wait and let her go ahead.
It was a cold dark morning afterall and I was warm in my car with the heat on, music playing and coffee in the cup holder. Why rush?
Peace :)
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Crab Dip
Sunday, February 6th 2011
The Super Bowl is on today and D asked me yesterday if I would make crab dip for his potluck at work. Of course I will! I love making appetizers and it's been a while since I spent time in the kitchen so this will be fun. I ended up running out of time last night and didn't want to get up early to make it this morning, so I delivered it to his work today before the game started.
And the best part is...I saved some for myself to enjoy later!
Peace :)
The Super Bowl is on today and D asked me yesterday if I would make crab dip for his potluck at work. Of course I will! I love making appetizers and it's been a while since I spent time in the kitchen so this will be fun. I ended up running out of time last night and didn't want to get up early to make it this morning, so I delivered it to his work today before the game started.
And the best part is...I saved some for myself to enjoy later!
Peace :)
Mail on Sidewalk
Saturday, February 5th 2011
My brother and I went on a walk today down the street to visit our Grandma and Grandpa on our Mom's side. We had a nice visit about every day stuff and a little talk on my upcoming wedding this summer.
On our way home, we found an important-looking piece of mail on the sidewalk addressed to an unrecognizable name. We matched up the address to the house over yonder and I rang the doorbell. A lady came quickly and I explained what I was there for and handed her the mail.
She was appreciative and that was that. On we went with D.Z. leading us the rest of the way home.
Peace :)
My brother and I went on a walk today down the street to visit our Grandma and Grandpa on our Mom's side. We had a nice visit about every day stuff and a little talk on my upcoming wedding this summer.
On our way home, we found an important-looking piece of mail on the sidewalk addressed to an unrecognizable name. We matched up the address to the house over yonder and I rang the doorbell. A lady came quickly and I explained what I was there for and handed her the mail.
She was appreciative and that was that. On we went with D.Z. leading us the rest of the way home.
Peace :)
Wonderful Celebration of Grandma
Friday, February 4th 2011
I don't really know how to describe everything that happened today, but I can say that it was a wonderful celebration of my Grandma's life. After the service at the Church, we had a reception with all of her family and friends. This was the first time I've actually sat down to eat at a funeral and it was pretty nice. Visiting with different people, watching a slideshow of great photos bringing back fun memories, and reflecting on thoughts.
Then we went to the cemetary where we had another small ceremony. Before we were getting ready to leave, I realized we needed some flowers for Grandma and my uncle had the same idea too. So my mom and I went to the car where we had a bouquet of Grandma's favorite red roses and white lilies. My mom is an expert at arranging them, so she took care of that and they looked beautiful.
We are praying for you Grandma and we love you so much.
Peace :)
I don't really know how to describe everything that happened today, but I can say that it was a wonderful celebration of my Grandma's life. After the service at the Church, we had a reception with all of her family and friends. This was the first time I've actually sat down to eat at a funeral and it was pretty nice. Visiting with different people, watching a slideshow of great photos bringing back fun memories, and reflecting on thoughts.
Then we went to the cemetary where we had another small ceremony. Before we were getting ready to leave, I realized we needed some flowers for Grandma and my uncle had the same idea too. So my mom and I went to the car where we had a bouquet of Grandma's favorite red roses and white lilies. My mom is an expert at arranging them, so she took care of that and they looked beautiful.
We are praying for you Grandma and we love you so much.
Peace :)
Rosary
Thursday, February 3rd 2011
My Grandma left a note in her letter to the family that she would like a Rosary Prayer the evening before her funeral. So that's what we did tonight.
It was the first time I've heard the Prayer. I felt emotional and peaceful both at the same time. The Prayer lasted approximately 45 minutes and afterward the family gathered around to tell funny stories and give each other lots of hugs. As Grandma was lying there in her beautiful casket surrounded by the prettiest flowers I've ever seen, I know she was watching over us and laughing along with us.
Peace :)
My Grandma left a note in her letter to the family that she would like a Rosary Prayer the evening before her funeral. So that's what we did tonight.
It was the first time I've heard the Prayer. I felt emotional and peaceful both at the same time. The Prayer lasted approximately 45 minutes and afterward the family gathered around to tell funny stories and give each other lots of hugs. As Grandma was lying there in her beautiful casket surrounded by the prettiest flowers I've ever seen, I know she was watching over us and laughing along with us.
Peace :)
Happy Birthday Miss J and Tip on Discount
Wednesday, February 2nd 2011
Today is my dear friend Miss J's birthday so I sent her a message first thing in the morning to wish her a wonderful day. Happy Birthday Miss J!
Then I felt my appetite come back to a normal level this afternoon and I started craving Chinese food. I began imagining the taste of the hot mustard, fried spring rolls, fried rice and soy sauce. When I talked to D, I asked if that sounded ok to him too and it did. We went to a great restaurant downtown where we had a buy-one-get-one-free card.
After a fabulous dinner, the server brought our bill and took our discount card. I get the feeling that the servers always fear they will be tipped on the discounted price in situations like this, so I want to compensate by giving an even bigger tip than we would have if we were paying full price. It doesn't make much sense, but the restaurant only had a few tables the whole evening so I wanted to give a couple extra dollars as a tip to make up for the lack of business tonight. Plus, they did a great job and made the experience super pleasant.
Peace :)
Today is my dear friend Miss J's birthday so I sent her a message first thing in the morning to wish her a wonderful day. Happy Birthday Miss J!
Then I felt my appetite come back to a normal level this afternoon and I started craving Chinese food. I began imagining the taste of the hot mustard, fried spring rolls, fried rice and soy sauce. When I talked to D, I asked if that sounded ok to him too and it did. We went to a great restaurant downtown where we had a buy-one-get-one-free card.
After a fabulous dinner, the server brought our bill and took our discount card. I get the feeling that the servers always fear they will be tipped on the discounted price in situations like this, so I want to compensate by giving an even bigger tip than we would have if we were paying full price. It doesn't make much sense, but the restaurant only had a few tables the whole evening so I wanted to give a couple extra dollars as a tip to make up for the lack of business tonight. Plus, they did a great job and made the experience super pleasant.
Peace :)
SMART
Tuesday, February 1st 2011
Feeling a little better today, I was back at work and the normal routine. I got to go to the SMART reading this afternoon which is always a joy. One of my usual readers was absent so a substitute 2nd grader filled in. He was so polite and quietly spoken. He surprised me after a few minutes when he started using words in our conversation that I barely know! Such an intelligent child he seems to be. I think he can use some extra practice on his reading, but as far as his conversation outside the text, he knows what he's talking about.
I look forward to next Tuesday's reading.
Peace :)
Feeling a little better today, I was back at work and the normal routine. I got to go to the SMART reading this afternoon which is always a joy. One of my usual readers was absent so a substitute 2nd grader filled in. He was so polite and quietly spoken. He surprised me after a few minutes when he started using words in our conversation that I barely know! Such an intelligent child he seems to be. I think he can use some extra practice on his reading, but as far as his conversation outside the text, he knows what he's talking about.
I look forward to next Tuesday's reading.
Peace :)
How Are You?
Monday, January 31st 2011
I asked permission from my boss yesterday if I could take today off and she said "absolutely". I was sure glad because I ended up staying in bed until late afternoon. I got up a couple times, but quickly went back to the only place I could find comfort- my bed. I don't know if my pounding headache, sore throat, dwindling voice and heartburn are all because I've caught an illness or they're the result of exhaustion and sadness.
Just like yesterday, I thought it might help to get some fresh air and since I hadn't eaten all day, I walked to the sandwich shop 2 blocks up the street.
The man who made my sandwich was really friendly and kept asking how I was doing, how my day was going, etc. I then placed a $1 tip in the tip box at the register and he said, "Thank you, much appreciated" as he nodded to me.
This reminds me of something I noticed the past couple of days. You know how it's the common gesture to ask others "How are you?" or "How's it going?"? I realize the question might not be asked out of true caring of how someone is doing and rather used as an acknowledgment that you're there, but I learned that the best answer is a positive one.
I haven't given this much thought because usually I am doing fine and that's my answer. But the past couple days, the truth is, I'm not doing well or good or fine. So do I answer dishonestly? I looked it up and the answer is yes. Your answer should be positive regardless of how you're really doing. And that's what my answer has been for people like the guy at the sandwich shop.
I find it difficult to avoid the truth, but I guess in the end, why would anyone want a depressing answer? They probably don't. So that's why it's best to make them feel better and reply, "Fine thank you. How are you?"
Peace :)
I asked permission from my boss yesterday if I could take today off and she said "absolutely". I was sure glad because I ended up staying in bed until late afternoon. I got up a couple times, but quickly went back to the only place I could find comfort- my bed. I don't know if my pounding headache, sore throat, dwindling voice and heartburn are all because I've caught an illness or they're the result of exhaustion and sadness.
Just like yesterday, I thought it might help to get some fresh air and since I hadn't eaten all day, I walked to the sandwich shop 2 blocks up the street.
The man who made my sandwich was really friendly and kept asking how I was doing, how my day was going, etc. I then placed a $1 tip in the tip box at the register and he said, "Thank you, much appreciated" as he nodded to me.
This reminds me of something I noticed the past couple of days. You know how it's the common gesture to ask others "How are you?" or "How's it going?"? I realize the question might not be asked out of true caring of how someone is doing and rather used as an acknowledgment that you're there, but I learned that the best answer is a positive one.
I haven't given this much thought because usually I am doing fine and that's my answer. But the past couple days, the truth is, I'm not doing well or good or fine. So do I answer dishonestly? I looked it up and the answer is yes. Your answer should be positive regardless of how you're really doing. And that's what my answer has been for people like the guy at the sandwich shop.
I find it difficult to avoid the truth, but I guess in the end, why would anyone want a depressing answer? They probably don't. So that's why it's best to make them feel better and reply, "Fine thank you. How are you?"
Peace :)
Run With D.Z.
Sunday, January 30th 2011
Feeling exhausted after not sleeping much again, I didn't feel like doing anything today. But I thought it might help to get some exercise and fresh air. So, I asked my brother who was also staying at my parents' house if I could take his puppy D.Z. for a run.
D.Z. got so excited when I started putting my shoes on as my brother hooked up his leash. Now you see, he's a pretty big 1 year old dog and could probably run 5x faster than I can. So we took off sprinting down the street, D.Z. dragging me by the arm as I was holding on to his leash with all the strength I had.
We didn't last long (well I didn't anyway) and headed back home. I think D.Z. had a great time exploring the neighborhood. Although I ran faster than I have since I raced in a middle school track meet and was nervous when other dogs started barking at us, it was good for both of us to jog-I-mean-sprint around the 1-mile block. Time for a nap now.
Peace :)
Feeling exhausted after not sleeping much again, I didn't feel like doing anything today. But I thought it might help to get some exercise and fresh air. So, I asked my brother who was also staying at my parents' house if I could take his puppy D.Z. for a run.
D.Z. got so excited when I started putting my shoes on as my brother hooked up his leash. Now you see, he's a pretty big 1 year old dog and could probably run 5x faster than I can. So we took off sprinting down the street, D.Z. dragging me by the arm as I was holding on to his leash with all the strength I had.
We didn't last long (well I didn't anyway) and headed back home. I think D.Z. had a great time exploring the neighborhood. Although I ran faster than I have since I raced in a middle school track meet and was nervous when other dogs started barking at us, it was good for both of us to jog-I-mean-sprint around the 1-mile block. Time for a nap now.
Peace :)