Sunday, March 27, 2011

Miniature Desserts

Saturday, March 26th 2011 Our friends invited us over for cocktails before our dinner reservation tonight and we were trying to think of something other than the typical bottle of wine to take over as a hostess gift. As D and I were sitting at breakfast right in front of a beautiful array of French desserts, the idea clicked- "Let's take dessert!" So I picked out a miniature fruit tart, white chocolate cake, and a giant chocolate cream puff-like treat. They boxed them up with a cute sticker on top- just lovely! I'm hoping they will be just as excited about these treats as I am to give to them. Peace :)

Another Ride for D

Friday, March 25th 2011

Somehow I got talked into picking D up from another basketball game just like last weekend! Although, it didn't take much to talk me into it, especially since we are trying to save money where we can and $30 for a cab ride seems unnecessary.


The only problem was that D wasn't outside when I got there. So, I drove around the coliseum 2 times becoming more and more impatient. If there was a waiting area, it would have been fine. But traffic was moving and I had to move with it. Luckily D was on the corner the 3rd time around and his buddy who needed a ride back to his car hopped in the back seat unexpectedly.


I got a little lost on the way to his friend's car, but finally made it and we arrived home soon after!


Peace :)

Twigs & Branches

Thursday, March 24th 2011 Back at the house we are staying at this week, there have been tons of branches falling on the driveway during these stormy days we've had. So, in the cold and rainy weather, I went out and picked them up. My hands were freezing and covered in dirt by the time I was done, but the driveway looked much better and I'm sure D's aunt & uncle will appreciate it when they get home. Who wants to drive over a bunch of twigs and branches that might pop a tire? Peace :)

Dime

Wednesday, March 23rd 2011 My coworker who sits next to me was searching for coins in her desk drawer for a snack from the vending machine. I noticed what she was doing because it sounded like she was short on change and perhaps needed some. "Do you need some change?" I asked her. "Well, I only need a nickel. Do you have 5 cents?" She replied. "Of course, that's no big deal." I answered and gave her a dime which was the closest I had to a nickel. Then she came back and returned my money because the machine was out of order! Peace :)

Lottery Tickets

Tuesday, March 22nd 2011 A couple girls at work were collecting a dollar from anyone who wanted to join in on some lottery tickets in hopes of winning millions! I put in $1 without hesitation as I thought- there's no way I would miss out on this chance and if they won and I hadn't joined in, can you imagine how hard it would be to be the only one showing up for work as everyone else ran away with their fortune? And for this same reason, I got the idea to chip in $1 for Mr. J, who's absent today. He's usually the one organizing the office pools and he wouldn't be too happy if he missed out on the big bucks either. Now, we just need some good luck! Peace :)

Walking the Dog

Monday, March 21st 2011

We are in the midst of a 10-day dogsitting adventure and I know the sweet black lab, Miss J, would love to go on a walk everyday, but today was the first time I took her out. She realized what we were about to do and as I was putting on my shoes, she nearly knocked me over by jumping up onto me. It was nothing short of hilarious.


Off we went for a walk up the street, stopping to check out every piece of grass and all the trees along the way. I have to say, it was quite relaxing and a nice way to start the evening after a long day of work.


Peace :)

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Couple Quarters

Sunday, March 20th 2011

I was in line at the same grocery store that fooled me with the old magazine at the checkout line today (the same issue is still there by the way) and there was the Sunshine Division donation box staring me down. I put a couple quarters in this time which I know isn't much, but I wanted to give something while I'm there buying all this food for our house, at least this helps contribute toward some food for others.

Peace :)

Ride Home for D

Saturday, March 19th 2011

My mom came up to spend the day with me and also stay the night! I was so excited, I couldn't stop smiling all morning and D was lovingly teasing me about my excitement.

Mom my and I drove all over the state it felt like (although that's an exaggeration) and it was then after 9pm when we were finishing dinner and I decided to offer D a ride home from the basketball game he was at with his buddies. I didn't necessarily feel like driving near the coliseum where traffic would be horrendous, but it made more sense to go that route.

So I called and asked if he'd like us to pick him up and I think he was pretty excited to avoid the train and a spendy cab ride home. And, in the end, traffic wasn't too bad afterall!

Peace :)

Snack from Snack Machine Offer

Friday, March 18th 2011

The head manager at my office sent me an email today, asking if I could go to the lunchroom and make up a plate of food and deliver it to her in her meeting. I was surprised by the request, but nevertheless was happy to do it (plus it gave me a minute to get away from my desk and walk around). When I got to the lunchroom the caterer apologized and advised that there was no food left.

I went back to my desk and sent her an email to let her know. I wanted to offer something else because I'm sure she was hungry since it was after 2pm already, so I asked if she'd like me to get something out of the snack machine and take to her. I know that's not necessarily the greatest offer and I thought about offering to pick up a sandwich, but thought that might be too much.

She thanked me, but declined. Oh well!

Peace :)

Brownies & Coffee

Thursday, March 17th 2011

I always wanted to send my dad a Valentine's treat like I usually do, but since time kind of got away from me last month, I'm finally sending him something today. Homemade brownies and a pound of ground coffee!

Chocolate and coffee are two of his favorites (that must be where I get it) so he'll probably be pretty excited when the package arrives. I just hope the brownies are still somewhat fresh by the time they get there!

Peace :)

Wedding Magazine

Wednesday, March 16th 2011

Here I am watching my pennies after a big vacation and lots of unexpected expenses popping up left and right, but I couldn't stop myself from an impulse purchase at the grocery store checkout line- a new edition of the local wedding magazine! Now that the Spring & Summer issues are coming out, I am excited to see all the new colors and styles.

When I got home, I was so disappointed to find that I already had the same magazine! How could I forget? Why did they put it at the checkout counter when it was so old? I'm at the store all the time and it wasn't there before. I can't blame the store for fooling me and I should have paid better attention, but you know how it is when someone's in line behind you waiting for you to hurry up and pay?

So I had an idea. My co-worker Miss M's daughter is getting married this summer too and will be in town this weekend to visit, so I'll give the magazine to Miss M to share with her daughter! And that's what I did today. Hopefully they'll find some helpful tips and ideas or just have fun looking at the photos :)

Peace :)

Tsunami Recovery Donation

Tuesday, March 15th 2011

After placing a deposit in the ATM this morning, there was an option to make a donation to help the recovery of the recent tsunami in Japan. I'd been thinking of looking for a place to do this and here it is where I least expected it! I didn't give much, only $2, but I'd like to save up a few more dollars and contribute again in the next week or so. It's a start!

Peace :)

Hello

Monday, March 14th 2011

I sure am glad I had today off from work. We arrived home after midnight last night, so it was the biggest treat to get to sleep in, unpack our luggage,do laundry and spend the day recuperating!

I was on a walk home from the grocery store and a man was tucked away in a nook between 2 buildings. He almost startled me when he spoke, and I hesitated to give him full attention but when I realized all he wanted was to say hi, I kindly said "hello". Simple as that. I could tell he was pleased to be acknowledged as he was nearly hiding away on the street.

Peace :)

Monday, March 14, 2011

Parking Fees

Sunday, March 13th 2011

After a long flight home and late arrival at almost midnight, we learned that the train wouldn't be running late enough to get home. We got a ride to the airport last week with our friends J & S, but told them we'd just take the train home and save them the extra stop so late at night. Now we had to ask them for a ride after all. We could have taken a cab I suppose, but there would go another $35 so instead we can give more money to our friends.

We planned to pay for half the parking & gas, but now that they gave us a ride home too, we paid for all of it. They didn't want to take it, but we insisted. It's worth it to us and we are so thankful for them to have given us a ride to & from the airport. Thanks J & S!

Peace :)

Cash Gift

Saturday, March 12th 2011

I went back and forth trying to decide if we should order a gift for the bride & groom off of their registry or give them the simple gift of cash. D thinks everyone prefers cash and we should give them that, but sometimes I feel that doesn't show much thought.

Well, when it came down to it, I decided cash will be fine (and though you can't see it, there was probably more thought put in to this than a typical gift anyway!). Plus, if they're on their honeymoon when a big package is delivered from their registry, what if there's no where for it to be dropped off at their apartment? Cash will be safer I suppose. Here I go thinking more about it...

Peace :)

Cupcake

Friday, March 11th 2011

Further more, we started the day off by walking around the City- first stop breakfast. D's brother then took us to a famous bakery where I bought a cupcake for his fiance (who was working today and unable to join us) and one for myself to try later since I'm too full from breakfast still.

Off we go to see some more sights! The weather is improving and looks like the sun is coming out. It's probably time for a cocktail.

Peace :)

Lighting of the Candle

Thursday, March 10th 2011

We made the red-eye flight and are in NY! After what feels like days without a shower, we spent the morning walking around town, had a quick breakfast, coffees, everyone bought umbrellas when the rain started unexpectedly, toured Central Park, mimosas overlooking the pond- just to describe the beginning of the day.

The most special part of the morning was a tour of St. Patrick's Cathedral. There, I lit a candle for my Grandma B and said a prayer. It was the first I'd heard of this tradition and it was so special. There is a donation box next to the candles where we put money in too.

I love you Grandma.

Peace :)

Tip for Nail Techs

Wednesday, March 9th 2011

We are leaving for New York tonight to attend a wedding this weekend and I thought, I haven't had my nails done since last summer (feels like anyway), so maybe I should have them painted professionally for this occasion!

The people were so nice, did a fabulous job and I tipped them well for it! What a treat it was...

Peace :)

SMART- Misbehaving & Behaving

Tuesday, March 8th 2011

Today's SMART reading went better than it has the past few weeks. I've started to have a little difficulty with Mr. J because since he has become comfortable with me, he's begun to take control. I am not his teacher, but rather a volunteer who spends a mere 30 minutes with him. Where does my authority level start and stop? I'll say I would prefer to play it safe. So, as a result, Mr. J hasn't been reading much these past few weeks. He orders me to read to him instead.

But today went a little better and I really tried to manage the situation as best as I could- without getting walked all over.

On the other hand, Mr. J.S., is continuing to read better as well as treating me more and more like a friend which makes it really fun.

Peace :)

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Caramels for Grandpa

Monday, March 7th 2011

When I was over at my Grandpa's house yesterday, he showed me a sugar free caramel candy he wants me to look for online since he can't find it in the stores anymore. So, tonight I did a search online and found it!

I first selected 5 bags, then changed the order to 7 bags! They don't look like they are very big and just in case they stop selling them online, he'll have enough to last a little while.

I used my grandpa's address for delivery so they'll arrive right on his front porch in the next week or so. I think I'd like to have candy delivered to my door one day too- how fun!

Peace :)

Church Offering

Sunday, March 6th 2011

It's a beautiful sunny morning and my mom and I picked up my grandmother and took her to Church. We arrived early which was fine with me since it gave us a chance to visit for a minute and meet some of my grandma's friends. The service was inspiring and peaceful. When it was offering time, my mom and I quietly got our wallets out.

We were the only ones to put cash on the plate and everyone else was using envelopes. "Is it ok if we don't use an envelope?" I asked quickly since it was coming near us. Before I could get an answer, there it was, so I tucked the money underneath the envelopes in hopes that was ok!

Peace :)

Wedding Gift

Saturday, March 5th 2011

My brother Mr. C is getting married today! He is marrying a beautiful girl named Miss B and they are wonderful together. This is going to be a very special day and I have butterflies in my stomach full of joy.

I have a gift ready to give them which I think they'll really enjoy. A beautiful picture frame that's meant for one of their wedding photos- although they can use it for whatever picture they want (or they can return it if they don't like it)! And then a Korean food cookbook. I picked this out because Korean food is Mr. C's favorite and the last time we were together a couple weeks ago, they both mentioned how they are looking forward to learning how to cook meals together once they move in with one another at their new home.

I can't wait to deliver the Mickey Mantle gift to my dad and the wedding gift to my brother and his new wife today!

Peace :)

Dog Bed

Friday, March 4th 2011

Today is my dad's birthday- Happy Birthday Dad! I'll be down to visit and celebrate tomorrow...

My co-worker, Mr F. adopted a puppy last night and I am so excited for him. He's been talking about getting for a while now and last night he found just the right one. He mentioned that he needs to buy a dog bed and I know Costco sells a really nice one for only $18. I know this because my mom bought one for my brother's dog, Mr. D, for Christmas and he loves it!

I told Mr. F about the bed, but he said he doesn't have a Costco card. I would have happily gone and bought it myself, but I'm trying not to spend too much right now. So, I offered to take him there this afternoon so he could buy the bed before the weekend and we did. I think the cute little puppy will sleep well tonight!

Peace :)

Sunday, March 6, 2011

Miss J's Lunch

Thursday, March 3rd 2011

Speaking of Miss J...I wanted to help pay for some of the decorations she bought yesterday and before I realized the day was over and I forgot to give her cash. So, another opportunity popped up today and as we moved through the line at Subway, I quickly paid for her lunch before she knew it! She got her wallet out, but the lady said it was already taken care of :) Fun!

Peace :)

Potluck for Miss M's Birthday

Wednesday, March 2nd 2011

Today is the 3rd birthday of the week for someone I know- my coworker Miss M! Miss J helped organize a potluck and also bought the decorations which was so generous ;) Almost everyone brought a dish, some big, some small, some homemade and some bought. It turned out to be a great variety and looked wonderful all set up.

I made spinach & artichoke dip early this morning and set it out with all the other goodies. It didn't take too much work but a few people wanted the recipe so I think they liked it. Thanks to Miss J for putting it all together!

I hope you had a wonderful birthday Miss M! :)

Peace :)

Dinner with the Neighbors

Tuesday, March 1st 2011

Last week during our power outage, D became acquainted with our neighbor down at the pub where they were both having a beer while they were locked out of the condo building. What better place to wait, don't you agree? As it turns out, D invited our neighbor and his fiance to come over for dinner and tonight ended up working for all of us.

They live right next door and I am excited to get to know them a little and maybe become friends. It's been a long time since we moved in and I feel guilty that we haven't had them over before now. Oh well, better late than never!

So I thought and thought about what to make and decided on enchiladas with a side of salad. And, of course, chips, salsa and bean dip for an appetizer! It was fairly easy to make the dinner and the best part was enjoying the company and visiting while the enchiladas baked in the oven. It's nice when you don't have to stand over the stove the whole night (as we've done before).

It was a pleasant evening and we had a lot in common to talk about- such as the fact that they are getting married the weekend before we are!

Peace :)

Mickey Mantle Gift

Monday, February 28th 2011

My dad's birthday is coming up this weekend, so I came up with an idea today of what to get him- a Mickey Mantle (his all-time favorite baseball player) theme gift. I went online and found a t-shirt, black & white photograph, and a book all about Mickey Mantle. I ordered the t-shirt and picture on a 2 day rush and then decided I'll just go down to the bookstore near my house to get the book and save on the rush delivery fee. Good idea huh? If I knew where they sold the t-shirt and picture, I'd drive there too but it's so much easier to order online!

I think he's going to really like this gift and I can't wait to give it to him this Saturday when I go down to visit.

Peace :)

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Happy Birthday Miss K

Sunday, February 27th 2011

Today is our friend Miss K's birthday, so we went out to brunch with her and her boyfriend at a yummy restaurant that serves delicious breakfasts (and lunches if you so choose to order that)! We had a fun time toasting the birthday girl and telling stories about the weekend.

Then, somehow we ended up going to the hardware store on our way home to get some tools to hang up our new picture. We all said in 3 different versions to Miss K jokingly, "Was this the place you always dreamed of going on your birthday?" She didn't mind a bit!

I didn't particularly want to go there, but if it was up to me, our picture wouldn't be hung up for at least 6 more months, so I went along and supported the decision to stop there. Just go with the flow is what I try to practice these days...

Peace :)