Merry Christmas to all that celebrate.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Eighth Night
Friday was the last night of Chanukah, but we didn't get to Grandma's until very late, curse you rainy weather and holiday traffic. So Saturday Morning we lit the candles for the last time.
I hope you all had a happy Chanukah.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Seventh Night
We were eating dinner when it suddenly hit me that I forgot to take a picture of the menorah. I was just able to get this picture before the candles were completely gone.
Seventh Night
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Nate wanted to be in the picture, so here we have Nate's smiling face on the seventh night of Chanukah.
He is such a cutie.
Seventh Night
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Nate wanted to be in the picture, so here we have Nate's smiling face on the seventh night of Chanukah.
He is such a cutie.
Thursday Three: Recap!
Better late than never, it's the end of the year Thursday Three recap from the head honcho over at possum central.
Since it's late and I still have a lot to do, I'll be brief.
1) Years ago (way before children) I used to do things for New Years. Once, while I was still in college, I hosted a party at my Mom's house that involved the Air Force Academy Hockey Team. It was fun, though a bit loud. I have a few memories that stick out: my mom repeatedly asking us to turn down the music, teasing a friend who was making out with one of the guys and the almost complete absence of mess afterwards. All I had to do was pick up a couple of party hats out the snow the next day. In fact my mom dressed down my brother a few days later for being such a pig. She told him that he and his best friend made more of a mess in one hour than the hockey team at the party. After college Larry and I alternated with staying in or going into Manhattan and hitting a few parties. This year we'll probably be home eating something decadent and drinking champagne.
2) I guess I'm looking forward to Max and Rebecca starting kindergarten. I'll be on my own five days a week from 8:45 to 3:00. Maybe I'll get a job or something.
3) I don't know, I guess it would be Max's continued good health and his improved behavior at the doctor's office. He used to scream blue murder every time we entered the CF clinic. Now he is much more cooperative. In fact one of the nurses on Wednesday commented how much better he is at the clinic. It looks like my being firm and consistent is paying off and that my little boy is growing up.
Now back to our irregularly scheduled Chanukah programing.
THREE!
It being Thursday and all, it's once more time to throw off the tarp from the Most Exciting Thing in the Whole World, the Axis of Weevil Thursday Three!
::golf clap::
As it is now toward the end of 20-Ought Six, and seeing as how I will be gone all next week, what say we have a big year-end wrap up/new year preview?
Take your keyboard in hand and answer the following questions (which were inspired by last week's host) by either leaving a comment below, or a link to your answer over at your blog. Remember, anyone is free to play along!
So now:
1) What sorts of things will you be doing this year to bring the year to a close? Any special traditions or such that signal the end of the old? Parties, football games, airing of grievances, Twister?
2) What are you most looking forward to in the new year?
3) And since we missed talking about such things at the end of last month, what things that came your way in 2006 were you most thankful for?
Okay, now--get to work and let's see what you come up with!
Since it's late and I still have a lot to do, I'll be brief.
1) Years ago (way before children) I used to do things for New Years. Once, while I was still in college, I hosted a party at my Mom's house that involved the Air Force Academy Hockey Team. It was fun, though a bit loud. I have a few memories that stick out: my mom repeatedly asking us to turn down the music, teasing a friend who was making out with one of the guys and the almost complete absence of mess afterwards. All I had to do was pick up a couple of party hats out the snow the next day. In fact my mom dressed down my brother a few days later for being such a pig. She told him that he and his best friend made more of a mess in one hour than the hockey team at the party. After college Larry and I alternated with staying in or going into Manhattan and hitting a few parties. This year we'll probably be home eating something decadent and drinking champagne.
2) I guess I'm looking forward to Max and Rebecca starting kindergarten. I'll be on my own five days a week from 8:45 to 3:00. Maybe I'll get a job or something.
3) I don't know, I guess it would be Max's continued good health and his improved behavior at the doctor's office. He used to scream blue murder every time we entered the CF clinic. Now he is much more cooperative. In fact one of the nurses on Wednesday commented how much better he is at the clinic. It looks like my being firm and consistent is paying off and that my little boy is growing up.
Now back to our irregularly scheduled Chanukah programing.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Sixth Night
Tonight is the sixth night of Chanukah.
SixthNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. I decided that tonight we would light two menorahs. The one in back was a gift from my mother in law and I'm very fond of it. I think she gave it to us after my conversion ceremony. Anyway it has a nice clean (at least after I clean the wax off) modern look.
Happy Chanukah!
SixthNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. I decided that tonight we would light two menorahs. The one in back was a gift from my mother in law and I'm very fond of it. I think she gave it to us after my conversion ceremony. Anyway it has a nice clean (at least after I clean the wax off) modern look.
Happy Chanukah!
Artist of the Week: Winner’s Dog
Mr. John is this week’s artist.
John
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. On Saturday I took him, along with Jake and Crunch to a dog show over in Virginia Beach. It was a beautiful day and our ring times, 11:15 am and 12:45 pm, were reasonable so we could leave home at around 8:15 am.
John was entered in open dogs, which is a breed class for adult male dogs that have not finished their championship (In the initial classes male and female dogs are shown separately). Jake, meanwhile, was entered in Junior Showmanship with Crunch.
I got to the show site in plenty of time but parking, was another thing entirely. After a mistaken turn back onto the highway and an initial misguided parking space we dragged our tack box, bag of stuff, two dogs and their crates to the building. Crunch was in the rolling crate with the other crate balanced on top. John, meanwhile, I was walking on his leash. He was due in the ring and needed to stretch his legs.
We almost got to the building when John spied two Chows walking toward us. He set off a fusillade barks at the approaching dogs. As he twirled about at the end of the leash I vainly tried to quiet him.
Then disaster struck.
He slipped out of his collar and ran, barking his fool head off at the chows.
I took off after him terrified that the he might get hurt (chows are a notoriously dog aggressive breed) or that he might run out onto the highway running along side the parking lot.
The woman with the other dog was useless and keep circling about while screaming at John. John, after he barked a bit more at the dogs, dashed to some bushes next to the highway and peed on them. At that point I reached him and he slunk back to me.
Such a nice relaxed way to enter a dog show venue.
After one more goof up (I picked up the wrong number) and a bit of groveling to the judge, John actually earned his first point! He defeated all the other class winners and became winner's dog. I was shocked to say the least.
So good job John, hopefully next time won't be so exciting.
John
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. On Saturday I took him, along with Jake and Crunch to a dog show over in Virginia Beach. It was a beautiful day and our ring times, 11:15 am and 12:45 pm, were reasonable so we could leave home at around 8:15 am.
John was entered in open dogs, which is a breed class for adult male dogs that have not finished their championship (In the initial classes male and female dogs are shown separately). Jake, meanwhile, was entered in Junior Showmanship with Crunch.
I got to the show site in plenty of time but parking, was another thing entirely. After a mistaken turn back onto the highway and an initial misguided parking space we dragged our tack box, bag of stuff, two dogs and their crates to the building. Crunch was in the rolling crate with the other crate balanced on top. John, meanwhile, I was walking on his leash. He was due in the ring and needed to stretch his legs.
We almost got to the building when John spied two Chows walking toward us. He set off a fusillade barks at the approaching dogs. As he twirled about at the end of the leash I vainly tried to quiet him.
Then disaster struck.
He slipped out of his collar and ran, barking his fool head off at the chows.
I took off after him terrified that the he might get hurt (chows are a notoriously dog aggressive breed) or that he might run out onto the highway running along side the parking lot.
The woman with the other dog was useless and keep circling about while screaming at John. John, after he barked a bit more at the dogs, dashed to some bushes next to the highway and peed on them. At that point I reached him and he slunk back to me.
Such a nice relaxed way to enter a dog show venue.
After one more goof up (I picked up the wrong number) and a bit of groveling to the judge, John actually earned his first point! He defeated all the other class winners and became winner's dog. I was shocked to say the least.
So good job John, hopefully next time won't be so exciting.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Fifth Night
Tonight was Rebecca's turn to light the menorah. She wasn't as self assured as Max and I ended up holding her wrist and guiding her hand.
After the candles were all lit and the blessings recited, there was a mad scramble by the older boys over who gets to "light" the felt dachshund hanging. So far it has been Rebecca's project and she was very upset that someone else would dare do it. I was barely able to mollify her when I reminded her that she got to light the real candles tonight.
To prevent future arguments I brought out our other fabric menorah.
FifthNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. We have had this for quite some time and it has held up very well. Normally I would bring it out the first night, but is was stuck in a bag in the dining room and I had forgotten that it was there. It had spent the past week and a half in Nate's classroom in preparation to "Cultures Around the World day". I had brought it home Friday, but I was in such a rush to leave the house that it sat in it's bag until tonight.
The hanging is rather detailed. The candles are fully three dimensional with the shammus being a touch longer and having a slightly larger diameter. The candles all fit neatly into the little fabric pockets that represent the candle holders. The flames are removable and stay in place courtesy the magic of Velcro. I bought it from the same place that I got the little fabric book featured on the second night.
What I like most about the fabric menorahs is that the children can be fully in charge and I don't have to worry about them getting hurt or burning the place down.
After the candles were all lit and the blessings recited, there was a mad scramble by the older boys over who gets to "light" the felt dachshund hanging. So far it has been Rebecca's project and she was very upset that someone else would dare do it. I was barely able to mollify her when I reminded her that she got to light the real candles tonight.
To prevent future arguments I brought out our other fabric menorah.
FifthNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. We have had this for quite some time and it has held up very well. Normally I would bring it out the first night, but is was stuck in a bag in the dining room and I had forgotten that it was there. It had spent the past week and a half in Nate's classroom in preparation to "Cultures Around the World day". I had brought it home Friday, but I was in such a rush to leave the house that it sat in it's bag until tonight.
The hanging is rather detailed. The candles are fully three dimensional with the shammus being a touch longer and having a slightly larger diameter. The candles all fit neatly into the little fabric pockets that represent the candle holders. The flames are removable and stay in place courtesy the magic of Velcro. I bought it from the same place that I got the little fabric book featured on the second night.
What I like most about the fabric menorahs is that the children can be fully in charge and I don't have to worry about them getting hurt or burning the place down.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Fourth Night
Tonight we lit the fourth candle of Chanukah.
FourthNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. It was Max's turn to do the honor of lighting the candles after I lit the shammus. Jake was a little surprised that I would entrust his youngest brother with the task, but I knew Max was up to the job. In fact, he took his honor very seriously and did a great job.
The menorah itself I have written about in detail before and you can head over here to read more about it. I got it about 8 or 9 years ago from a catalogue. It was a bit pricey, but I've never regretted the purchase. Other than a few chips on it from when Jake and I have dropped it, it has held up very well over the years.
FourthNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. It was Max's turn to do the honor of lighting the candles after I lit the shammus. Jake was a little surprised that I would entrust his youngest brother with the task, but I knew Max was up to the job. In fact, he took his honor very seriously and did a great job.
The menorah itself I have written about in detail before and you can head over here to read more about it. I got it about 8 or 9 years ago from a catalogue. It was a bit pricey, but I've never regretted the purchase. Other than a few chips on it from when Jake and I have dropped it, it has held up very well over the years.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Third Night
Tonight was our temple’s Chanukah party.
ThirdNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. We lit candles, sang songs, ate latkes and danced. Each table had it’s own menorah and since Jake got to light the candles at home tonight, Nate got to do the honor at the party.
Natelites
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. I think the best part of the evening was when we all said the blessings together. It was just a wonderful sound with all the voices blending together. Then it was time to party.
During one the songs (Sivivon Sov, Sov, Sov, Sov) the Rabbi requested that all the kids spin around when he sang sov, sov, sov. My four were happy to comply and proved to be very enthusiastic dreidels. Max even went for that added touch of authenticity by falling into a heap during the second song, I Have a Little Dreidel. It was an utterly charming performance that required no coaxing on my part.
For the rest of the evening Max and Rebecca would periodically get up and dance while the music was playing. Our table was conveniently located next to the band and there was ample floor space for their show. I am happy that my children are so comfortable at shul. Mind you, they do know have to behave and show proper respect, but I think it is important that our synagogue is such a familiar place.
I spent the evening eating far too many latkes and limiting my dancing to the Hora during Hava Nagila.
Happy Chanukah!
ThirdNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. We lit candles, sang songs, ate latkes and danced. Each table had it’s own menorah and since Jake got to light the candles at home tonight, Nate got to do the honor at the party.
Natelites
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. I think the best part of the evening was when we all said the blessings together. It was just a wonderful sound with all the voices blending together. Then it was time to party.
During one the songs (Sivivon Sov, Sov, Sov, Sov) the Rabbi requested that all the kids spin around when he sang sov, sov, sov. My four were happy to comply and proved to be very enthusiastic dreidels. Max even went for that added touch of authenticity by falling into a heap during the second song, I Have a Little Dreidel. It was an utterly charming performance that required no coaxing on my part.
For the rest of the evening Max and Rebecca would periodically get up and dance while the music was playing. Our table was conveniently located next to the band and there was ample floor space for their show. I am happy that my children are so comfortable at shul. Mind you, they do know have to behave and show proper respect, but I think it is important that our synagogue is such a familiar place.
I spent the evening eating far too many latkes and limiting my dancing to the Hora during Hava Nagila.
Happy Chanukah!
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Second Night
Tonight is the second night of Chanukah.
SecondNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Yesterday’s menorah, or rather hanukkiah, was a made by one of my dachshund breeder friends. She is a very talented in making dachshund themed crafts and I appreciated that she asked me if it was appropriate. She is not Jewish and she wanted to be respectful of the holiday, but still have a little bit of fun.
Tonight’s is a part of a Chanukah soft book that I bought years ago.
Chanukahbook
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Amazingly it still has all its parts: the little historical figure, 9 candles (the eight lights of Chanukah plus the shammus), the latkes, teddy bear and the dreidel.
It is a delightful little book that we bring out every year. Rebecca set up the candles just after we lit our menorah and said the blessings.
I didn’t notice it until later and I just had to share.
Happy Chanukah!
SecondNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Yesterday’s menorah, or rather hanukkiah, was a made by one of my dachshund breeder friends. She is a very talented in making dachshund themed crafts and I appreciated that she asked me if it was appropriate. She is not Jewish and she wanted to be respectful of the holiday, but still have a little bit of fun.
Tonight’s is a part of a Chanukah soft book that I bought years ago.
Chanukahbook
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Amazingly it still has all its parts: the little historical figure, 9 candles (the eight lights of Chanukah plus the shammus), the latkes, teddy bear and the dreidel.
It is a delightful little book that we bring out every year. Rebecca set up the candles just after we lit our menorah and said the blessings.
I didn’t notice it until later and I just had to share.
Happy Chanukah!
Friday, December 15, 2006
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Thursday Three: Holidays
It’s that time of year again and Terry Claims he’s too busy to do the Thursday Three thing so the intrepid Jim Smith volunteered to host this week’s
1) I haven’t been to very many Christmas/Holiday parties so I don’t have much to draw on. I guess the best was one of my husband’s co-worker’s parties. The party took place in her husband’s workplace (just downstairs from their home) and had a good mix of people and food. I haven’t been to too many clunkers, though there was one we avoided. The invitation alone was off-putting.
Now New Years Eve is a whole different ball game. I have had some very memorable evenings in Manhattan, one of which ended with my husband’s best friend being dragged away by Amy Stiller. I think that was the year we danced on the bar at the Gecko Bar.
2) I love lighting the menorah for Chanukah and that is about it for best. All the aspects of Christmas that my family did centered around the tree, giving presents, seeing family and eating food. Not a whole lot of religion going on.
As for worst, I can’t stand that all the Christmas decorations are up before Thanksgiving and the accompanying insipid music.
3) Nothing really stands out in the best/worst giving/receiving category. I have received many a fine gift and I think I haven’t given out too many lemons.
That’s it for me. I’m a bit giddy from the industrial strength cleaner I just used to scrub out the shower and all the hair product my hair stylist dumped on my head.
it’s the pre holiday –Santa Possum is too busy to shop—
edition of the Thursday Three
comments update
They don't seem to be working if you want to play please go to Mr. Possum's post.
Well! What do ya do? I suggested the three was finished with finals and already headed home. Not good enough, so here goes with the best/worst edition of the three. You can answer the best or the worst or both—or not at all I guess.
Any way here it is:
1. Best/worst Christmas/holiday party you have attended?
2. Best/worst religious Christmas/holiday activity.
3. Best/worst gift--given or received?
Remember to either put you answers in the comments section or give us a link back to your site. Please play I don’t want to be the boy who threw the party and nobody came.
1) I haven’t been to very many Christmas/Holiday parties so I don’t have much to draw on. I guess the best was one of my husband’s co-worker’s parties. The party took place in her husband’s workplace (just downstairs from their home) and had a good mix of people and food. I haven’t been to too many clunkers, though there was one we avoided. The invitation alone was off-putting.
Now New Years Eve is a whole different ball game. I have had some very memorable evenings in Manhattan, one of which ended with my husband’s best friend being dragged away by Amy Stiller. I think that was the year we danced on the bar at the Gecko Bar.
2) I love lighting the menorah for Chanukah and that is about it for best. All the aspects of Christmas that my family did centered around the tree, giving presents, seeing family and eating food. Not a whole lot of religion going on.
As for worst, I can’t stand that all the Christmas decorations are up before Thanksgiving and the accompanying insipid music.
3) Nothing really stands out in the best/worst giving/receiving category. I have received many a fine gift and I think I haven’t given out too many lemons.
That’s it for me. I’m a bit giddy from the industrial strength cleaner I just used to scrub out the shower and all the hair product my hair stylist dumped on my head.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Artist of the Week: Turkey
This week’s artist is Nate.
leafNate
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Fall is so much fun, especially when you can get your siblings to bury you in a pile of leaves.
Today’s artistic selection was a family project that Nate and I did just before Thanksgiving.
turkey
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Nate brought home an outline of a turkey that we were to decorate. We were free to do whatever we wanted to do to the turkey once we cut it out. It is a standard second grade project in our school; I had done the same thing three years ago with Jake.
Nate determined what to put on each area and I assisted by spreading the glue. The only suggestion I made was that the tail feathers could use a little more color. Originally he wanted to only use the pretzels, but urged him to use the leaf sprinkles. I thought they would add some much needed color to the bird. I think he only agreed just to make me happy, but he did like the end result.
The bird came back home a few days ago, it was quickly photographed and then trashed. Normally I like keeping the various projects that the kids bring home, but not this time. The turkey is covered in food and will eventually attract vermin and be consumed. So I saved it and present it for y’all to enjoy.
leafNate
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Fall is so much fun, especially when you can get your siblings to bury you in a pile of leaves.
Today’s artistic selection was a family project that Nate and I did just before Thanksgiving.
turkey
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Nate brought home an outline of a turkey that we were to decorate. We were free to do whatever we wanted to do to the turkey once we cut it out. It is a standard second grade project in our school; I had done the same thing three years ago with Jake.
Nate determined what to put on each area and I assisted by spreading the glue. The only suggestion I made was that the tail feathers could use a little more color. Originally he wanted to only use the pretzels, but urged him to use the leaf sprinkles. I thought they would add some much needed color to the bird. I think he only agreed just to make me happy, but he did like the end result.
The bird came back home a few days ago, it was quickly photographed and then trashed. Normally I like keeping the various projects that the kids bring home, but not this time. The turkey is covered in food and will eventually attract vermin and be consumed. So I saved it and present it for y’all to enjoy.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Friday
Not much is happening around here. The big excitement is all happening on Friday, we’ve got the start of Chanukah, the second grade’s “Cultures around the world” and the Governor’s holiday party.
Chanukah needs no explanation, but the other two certainly do.
“Culture’s Around the World” or as I like to call it “Tour de Trailers” (the entire second grade is housed in six trailers) is an educational unit where each class room represents a country. On Friday the second graders get to tour each of the other classrooms and learn about each of the countries represented.
Nate’s teacher chose Israel and promptly tapped me to help out. So far I have dragged in an assortment of books, menorahs, candles and various miscellanies. The teacher was particularly excited by a pair of books I brought in. This past weekend I picked up a Hebrew copy of “Where the Wild Things Are” at our Hebrew School’s book fair. Together with our battered English copy it will showcase how different Hebrew is from English. On Friday I’ll stay in the trailer and help out with the presentation and crafts. The kids will be making a Star of David and a dreidel. Then we get to nosh on doughnuts and cookies. It should be a lot of fun.
Then I get to cap off my day by attending the Governor’s holiday party. A couple of weeks ago Larry got the following invite at work:
We get to party down with the governor!
This is one of the few perks of Larry’s job. The last time we got to go to the Governors mansion was 4 ½ years ago during James S. Gilmore III’s tenure, just after the completion of the mansion’s restoration. I look forward to seeing the interior again.
So until Friday, not much is happening.
Chanukah needs no explanation, but the other two certainly do.
“Culture’s Around the World” or as I like to call it “Tour de Trailers” (the entire second grade is housed in six trailers) is an educational unit where each class room represents a country. On Friday the second graders get to tour each of the other classrooms and learn about each of the countries represented.
Nate’s teacher chose Israel and promptly tapped me to help out. So far I have dragged in an assortment of books, menorahs, candles and various miscellanies. The teacher was particularly excited by a pair of books I brought in. This past weekend I picked up a Hebrew copy of “Where the Wild Things Are” at our Hebrew School’s book fair. Together with our battered English copy it will showcase how different Hebrew is from English. On Friday I’ll stay in the trailer and help out with the presentation and crafts. The kids will be making a Star of David and a dreidel. Then we get to nosh on doughnuts and cookies. It should be a lot of fun.
Then I get to cap off my day by attending the Governor’s holiday party. A couple of weeks ago Larry got the following invite at work:
Governor Timothy M. Kaine and Ms. Anne Holton
cordially invite you and a guest
to a holiday reception
on Friday, December 15th, 2006
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
The Executive Mansion
cordially invite you and a guest
to a holiday reception
on Friday, December 15th, 2006
5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
The Executive Mansion
Please reply by December 11th Festive attire
We get to party down with the governor!
This is one of the few perks of Larry’s job. The last time we got to go to the Governors mansion was 4 ½ years ago during James S. Gilmore III’s tenure, just after the completion of the mansion’s restoration. I look forward to seeing the interior again.
So until Friday, not much is happening.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Manners
I went to a holiday party today with Jake and Nate in tow. It was for my local dog club and it was held at a member’s home (B.). It is an annual event and is a nice social gathering for the club. B. called earlier in the week to confirm that I was coming and to find out what I was bringing, which of course was cake.
Two years ago she had hosted the party and it was a success. We had a very good turn out and the food was excellent. B. can be at times a bit difficult and a loose canon, but she is an amazing cook. I knew that the spread would be tasty and generous.
Today she did not disappoint. There was a lovely roast beef, spiral cut ham, real homemade mash potatoes and so on.
I am, however, very disappointed with my club.
Apart from me, B. and my two eldest only three other club members showed up. One called to say he was dealing with some sort of crisis, another flaked out and forgot (she was supposed to bring drinks, so we actually tracked her down.) and the rest never showed up.
I find that to be shockingly rude. If I say I’m coming I will show up. I might be a bit late, but I do my best and I bring what I promised. Heck, I’ve even brought snacks to a soccer game even when my child wasn’t playing due to illness. I honor my commitments.
There was one person who at first was going to attend, but later tendered his regrets. He had a funeral to attend and was unable to do both events. He had the courtesy to tell us in advance and I am deeply appreciative of his effort.
I realize it was a long drive to B.’s house, but it was a gorgeous day and the drive itself is quite scenic. I guess what it all comes down to is that I’m finding that manners are lacking within the club.
To end this rant on a positive note I’m very proud of how well behaved my two boys were at B.’s house. Jake even helped out with the dogs and participated in the conversation. At least I know I’m teaching my children proper manners.
Two years ago she had hosted the party and it was a success. We had a very good turn out and the food was excellent. B. can be at times a bit difficult and a loose canon, but she is an amazing cook. I knew that the spread would be tasty and generous.
Today she did not disappoint. There was a lovely roast beef, spiral cut ham, real homemade mash potatoes and so on.
I am, however, very disappointed with my club.
Apart from me, B. and my two eldest only three other club members showed up. One called to say he was dealing with some sort of crisis, another flaked out and forgot (she was supposed to bring drinks, so we actually tracked her down.) and the rest never showed up.
I find that to be shockingly rude. If I say I’m coming I will show up. I might be a bit late, but I do my best and I bring what I promised. Heck, I’ve even brought snacks to a soccer game even when my child wasn’t playing due to illness. I honor my commitments.
There was one person who at first was going to attend, but later tendered his regrets. He had a funeral to attend and was unable to do both events. He had the courtesy to tell us in advance and I am deeply appreciative of his effort.
I realize it was a long drive to B.’s house, but it was a gorgeous day and the drive itself is quite scenic. I guess what it all comes down to is that I’m finding that manners are lacking within the club.
To end this rant on a positive note I’m very proud of how well behaved my two boys were at B.’s house. Jake even helped out with the dogs and participated in the conversation. At least I know I’m teaching my children proper manners.
Friday, December 08, 2006
So Uncivilized
After all the double posting and birthday excitement yesterday I’m going to finish the week off with a Star Wars Personality Quiz:
Your results:
You are Obi-Wan Kenobi
(This list displays the top 10 results out of a possible 21 characters)
Click here to take the Star Wars Personality Quiz
Not too bad. What I particularly like about the quiz was the little line thrown in by the quiz creator after your results. To wit:
“May the force be with you. I hope you enjoyed this Star Wars Personality test. And I hope you got the results you desire. If you had Jar Jar, well, I hope you change.”
*snort*
Hat tip to Chef Tony.
Your results:
You are Obi-Wan Kenobi
| You are civilized, calm, and have a good sense of humor, even when those around you don't. You can hold your own in a fight, but prefer it when things don't get too exciting.  |
(This list displays the top 10 results out of a possible 21 characters)
Click here to take the Star Wars Personality Quiz
Not too bad. What I particularly like about the quiz was the little line thrown in by the quiz creator after your results. To wit:
“May the force be with you. I hope you enjoyed this Star Wars Personality test. And I hope you got the results you desire. If you had Jar Jar, well, I hope you change.”
*snort*
Hat tip to Chef Tony.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Thursday Three: Potpourri
Once again Terry is able to slap something together at the last second. I wasn’t sure it was going to happen after his last minute cry for help so y’all get a double helping of postings (Yes, this is my second post of the day!) from me. So now I turn you over to Terry and his big box of Thursday Three.
Mmmm, potpourri or as I like to call it dried up stinky stuff.
Anyway, I’ll give it a go.
1) I have never been removed or even asked to leave a public conveyance, but I do have a funny story about air travel. Near the end of my last pregnancy we arranged for various family members to come down and help me out. I’m a very independent sort, but even I realized that being pregnant with twins was not to be taken lightly. Since Nate arrived on the scene very quickly we thought it would be best to have another adult around and I also liked the help with the day to day grind of caring for a five year old and an almost three year old. When my brother came to stay I was 7 ½ months along and I was HUGE. I looked more like 9 ½ months. On his last day I took him to the airport for his flight home. As I waddled up to the counter I could see I was creating a huge stir of activity behind the counter. When I finally reached it I smiled sweetly and said that I’m not flying today, I’m only here to drop off my brother. You could see all of the counter attendants relax. Airlines normally will not fly the hugely pregnant, only under extraordinary circumstances and I could tell they were gearing themselves up for a fight.
2) The last movie I’ve seen was Casino Royale and I thought it was wonderful. I loved the original Bond films, but the whole thing had become a bit tiresome. I’ve completely missed the last few films. Larry and I went to see it because there wasn’t much else in theaters and the reviews were quite good. About a quarter of the way in I remember turning to Larry and commenting on what an absolute jerk this particular Bond is in the movie. However, Craig plays a very compelling Bond as well. I was completely drawn into the film. It looks like the Bond franchise has new legs and this Bond is a little truer to the original in the book.
3) Northern Neck Ginger Ale. It has some snap to it as opposed to the watery versions offered by Scweppes and Canada Dry. I used to drink Coke, but when I stopped drinking caffeinated drinks when I was pregnant I never went back.
4)The worst president in my lifetime is a toss up between Nixon and Carter. Nixon was downright venal and Carter is an idiot.
And now I’m going to go and admire my brand new boots (June, in black kidskin suede).
And we go to the big box of questions and...
...find that it is empty.
WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE AXIS OF WEEVIL THURSDAY THREE, THE INTERNETSES MOST ENGAGING AND POINTLESS WASTE OF TIME!?
Never fear, gentle readers, the show must go on and all that stuff. It might just not be up to the usual high standard of quality you might be used to. Then again, it may exceed it by a wide margin.
IN ANY EVENT, all of you gather 'round and listen to these questions and then take a moment to answer them, either by leaving your answer in the comments below or a link to your online journal, or as the kids call it, a "blog." As is the usual case when I don't have any questions, today's offering will be a grab-bag selection of entirely unrelated questions. We call it Potpourri, because it gives a high-tone air to the place and makes it seem much more uppity than just "Pile of Junk."
SO,
1) Have you ever been removed from a public conveyance for breaking rules regarding passenger behavior, such as Miss Windybritches on the DC-Dallas flight?
2) What is the latest movie you've seen (theater, broadcast, or video) and how did you like it?
3) What is your favorite soft drink?
And since these are all so pitiful, we'll even throw in an extra question that you can use as a substitute or as a bonus question--
4) Who do you consider to be the worst United States President in your lifetime?
There now--take that box full of odds-and-ends and see what you can do with it!
Mmmm, potpourri or as I like to call it dried up stinky stuff.
Anyway, I’ll give it a go.
1) I have never been removed or even asked to leave a public conveyance, but I do have a funny story about air travel. Near the end of my last pregnancy we arranged for various family members to come down and help me out. I’m a very independent sort, but even I realized that being pregnant with twins was not to be taken lightly. Since Nate arrived on the scene very quickly we thought it would be best to have another adult around and I also liked the help with the day to day grind of caring for a five year old and an almost three year old. When my brother came to stay I was 7 ½ months along and I was HUGE. I looked more like 9 ½ months. On his last day I took him to the airport for his flight home. As I waddled up to the counter I could see I was creating a huge stir of activity behind the counter. When I finally reached it I smiled sweetly and said that I’m not flying today, I’m only here to drop off my brother. You could see all of the counter attendants relax. Airlines normally will not fly the hugely pregnant, only under extraordinary circumstances and I could tell they were gearing themselves up for a fight.
2) The last movie I’ve seen was Casino Royale and I thought it was wonderful. I loved the original Bond films, but the whole thing had become a bit tiresome. I’ve completely missed the last few films. Larry and I went to see it because there wasn’t much else in theaters and the reviews were quite good. About a quarter of the way in I remember turning to Larry and commenting on what an absolute jerk this particular Bond is in the movie. However, Craig plays a very compelling Bond as well. I was completely drawn into the film. It looks like the Bond franchise has new legs and this Bond is a little truer to the original in the book.
3) Northern Neck Ginger Ale. It has some snap to it as opposed to the watery versions offered by Scweppes and Canada Dry. I used to drink Coke, but when I stopped drinking caffeinated drinks when I was pregnant I never went back.
4)The worst president in my lifetime is a toss up between Nixon and Carter. Nixon was downright venal and Carter is an idiot.
And now I’m going to go and admire my brand new boots (June, in black kidskin suede).
Happy Birthday to Me
Since a few days ago I shared photos of my husband on his birthday, it’s only fair that I do the same.
I’ve gone from this little pixie in the chair (with my father and the wonderful poodle we inherited.)
Sarah__Grandpa_Ralph_and_Casey
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. To this aficionado of the beach.
Ocean_beach
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. You even get to see Larry there next to me. This was taken at Ocean Beach in New London, CT. It is the closest public beach to our college and, on that particular day, it was invaded by Canada Geese.
My big plans today are to deposit the children at their various schools, not do laundry and not do dishes. I might even take a nap or go shopping for some new dress boots.
Rebecca asked me what was going on today and this is what we said:
“It’s my birthday.”
“Yay!” At which point both arms went into the air and she danced a bit and than paused.
“Who’ll make the cake?” Because that’s what truly matters to her.
“Daddy will.”
“Daddy? Daddy doesn’t make cakes.” At which point she wandered off.
Ah, but Daddy does make cakes, his are of the ice cream variety.
I’ve gone from this little pixie in the chair (with my father and the wonderful poodle we inherited.)
Sarah__Grandpa_Ralph_and_Casey
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. To this aficionado of the beach.
Ocean_beach
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. You even get to see Larry there next to me. This was taken at Ocean Beach in New London, CT. It is the closest public beach to our college and, on that particular day, it was invaded by Canada Geese.
My big plans today are to deposit the children at their various schools, not do laundry and not do dishes. I might even take a nap or go shopping for some new dress boots.
Rebecca asked me what was going on today and this is what we said:
“It’s my birthday.”
“Yay!” At which point both arms went into the air and she danced a bit and than paused.
“Who’ll make the cake?” Because that’s what truly matters to her.
“Daddy will.”
“Daddy? Daddy doesn’t make cakes.” At which point she wandered off.
Ah, but Daddy does make cakes, his are of the ice cream variety.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Artist of the Week: Lawncare
This week’s artist is Rebecca.
Rebecca
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. And no, she didn’t rake the lawn or mow it (But hooray we got our tractor back today!), instead she illustrated it.
Lawnmowerguy
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. This is a picture she made for her Daddy on his birthday last Sunday. It has all sorts of wonderful details and I find more every time I look at it. Just yesterday I noticed that in front of the mower the grass is a long unruly mess. However behind it, the lawn is nicely manicured. I like the expression of intense concentration on the lawn guy’s face as he rides the tractor.
Then there are the bees. Larry was concerned about the lawn guy’s safety, but we were informed by the artist that “the bees won’t hurt you, unless you take their honey.” This is a fairly reasonable state of affairs.
On an entirely unrelated subject I have to give a shout out to Kinko’s and its customer support. Last night I was working on our annual calendar project. I got it all set up, ordered my multitude of copies and paid for it. Then I noticed the 15% off promotional that I had neglected to punch in.
Oops!
I called up this morning and I was put on hold. But, it was a very pleasant sort of wait. I got to listen to Frank Sinatra and I was a little disappointed that I did not get to hear the end of “I’ve got you under my skin” when Meagan returned to the line. The news was good, I was told yes, I could still get a discount. I’ll get the refund after I pick up the order.
Woo hoo!
So props to Kinko’s for good hold music and customer support.
Rebecca
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. And no, she didn’t rake the lawn or mow it (But hooray we got our tractor back today!), instead she illustrated it.
Lawnmowerguy
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. This is a picture she made for her Daddy on his birthday last Sunday. It has all sorts of wonderful details and I find more every time I look at it. Just yesterday I noticed that in front of the mower the grass is a long unruly mess. However behind it, the lawn is nicely manicured. I like the expression of intense concentration on the lawn guy’s face as he rides the tractor.
Then there are the bees. Larry was concerned about the lawn guy’s safety, but we were informed by the artist that “the bees won’t hurt you, unless you take their honey.” This is a fairly reasonable state of affairs.
On an entirely unrelated subject I have to give a shout out to Kinko’s and its customer support. Last night I was working on our annual calendar project. I got it all set up, ordered my multitude of copies and paid for it. Then I noticed the 15% off promotional that I had neglected to punch in.
Oops!
I called up this morning and I was put on hold. But, it was a very pleasant sort of wait. I got to listen to Frank Sinatra and I was a little disappointed that I did not get to hear the end of “I’ve got you under my skin” when Meagan returned to the line. The news was good, I was told yes, I could still get a discount. I’ll get the refund after I pick up the order.
Woo hoo!
So props to Kinko’s for good hold music and customer support.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Sometimes It’s a Minivan, Sometimes It’s a Pick-up
Last week I broke the lawn tractor. Well maybe I didn’t personally break it, I just happened to be the one using it when it went dead.
I had successfully backed it out the shed and up to the lawn. It was happily idling away when I engaged the mower blades, than with a mighty clunk it stop cold when I put it in gear. I tried restarting it, but nothing happened. I poked, prodded, called my husband out and even READ THE MANUEL. But still nothing worked.
Rats, I really wanted to take care of the lawn. The tractor has a fancy set of mulching blades that make all of the nasty leaves on the lawn disappear. The leaves are gone, the lawn is fed and I don’t have to rake.
So now we have a choice of paying the lawn mower repair place come get the mower or we bring it in ourselves. Since we arecheap frugal, we opted for bringing it in ourselves. I had to clear out the seats and the miscellaneous junk there in and helped Larry load the beast into the van. And here is the photographic proof that you can fit a lawn tractor into a minivan:
This is what it looks like after we stuffed it in.
TractorinVan
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. And here is another view showing the ramps we use to get the tractor in and out of the van.
TractorinVan+ramps
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. It all fits in rather nicely.
It turns out the PTO switch had gone bad. This is a safety device that kills the engine if nobody is sitting in the seat. Hopefully we will be getting the tractor back soon.
I think we are one of the very few minivan owners out there that really use the full capabilities of their minivan.
I had successfully backed it out the shed and up to the lawn. It was happily idling away when I engaged the mower blades, than with a mighty clunk it stop cold when I put it in gear. I tried restarting it, but nothing happened. I poked, prodded, called my husband out and even READ THE MANUEL. But still nothing worked.
Rats, I really wanted to take care of the lawn. The tractor has a fancy set of mulching blades that make all of the nasty leaves on the lawn disappear. The leaves are gone, the lawn is fed and I don’t have to rake.
So now we have a choice of paying the lawn mower repair place come get the mower or we bring it in ourselves. Since we are
This is what it looks like after we stuffed it in.
TractorinVan
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. And here is another view showing the ramps we use to get the tractor in and out of the van.
TractorinVan+ramps
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. It all fits in rather nicely.
It turns out the PTO switch had gone bad. This is a safety device that kills the engine if nobody is sitting in the seat. Hopefully we will be getting the tractor back soon.
I think we are one of the very few minivan owners out there that really use the full capabilities of their minivan.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Cool Max
Max is a very cool little dude and has his very own sense of style. He is a huge fan of the web slinger and has numerous Spiderman themed shirts and pajamas.
He also has CF and that necessitates Max getting nebulized two to three times a day, once in the morning, the early afternoon and just before bed. He really is better off with three times a day, but when push comes to shove (i.e. a travel day when we go on vacation) I will drop a treatment.
As a reward for sitting through his endless treatments, Max gets to watch tv. During the spring and summer months the suns rays in the morning hours do not fall upon Max’s spot on the couch. Now, however, it is a bit of a problem. The tubing only reaches so far and it is hard to find a spot where he isn’t blinded by the morning sun. Then the other day I finally thought of his sunglasses.
coolMax
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. He looks so cool and so very, very cute as he sits there with his sunglasses and nebulization kit strapped to his face. I just had to share this picture.
He also has CF and that necessitates Max getting nebulized two to three times a day, once in the morning, the early afternoon and just before bed. He really is better off with three times a day, but when push comes to shove (i.e. a travel day when we go on vacation) I will drop a treatment.
As a reward for sitting through his endless treatments, Max gets to watch tv. During the spring and summer months the suns rays in the morning hours do not fall upon Max’s spot on the couch. Now, however, it is a bit of a problem. The tubing only reaches so far and it is hard to find a spot where he isn’t blinded by the morning sun. Then the other day I finally thought of his sunglasses.
coolMax
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. He looks so cool and so very, very cute as he sits there with his sunglasses and nebulization kit strapped to his face. I just had to share this picture.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Happy Birthday Larry!
Today is my wonderful husband’s birthday and this is the cake I made for him.
Birthdaycake
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. It is a flourless chocolate tort that I’ll post about later (Ha! I already have!). Today it’s all about Larry.
He went from this cute little fellow.
Young_Larry
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. To this handsome young man I fell in love with.
Larry
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Happy birthday sweetie.
Birthdaycake
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. It is a flourless chocolate tort that I’ll post about later (Ha! I already have!). Today it’s all about Larry.
He went from this cute little fellow.
Young_Larry
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. To this handsome young man I fell in love with.
Larry
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. Happy birthday sweetie.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Boneless Short Ribs, What to Do?
A few weeks ago I picked up some boneless beef short ribs on special. I had no idea what to do with them, but at half off, I couldn’t resist. In the end I decided that my crock pot would be the way to go. I have several slow cooking cookbooks from my mother (who was also the source of my crock pot) and I decided to leaf through them and see what struck my fancy.
I found a likely candidate in my Better Homes and Gardens Crockery Cookbook (1994). The Beef and Vegetables in Red Wine Sauce sounded appealing and I had most of the ingredients on hand, well mostly, more on that later.
*Beef short ribs (duh!)
**peeled baby carrots cut into thirds
***I omitted the celery because: 1. My hubby can’t eat it and 2. I don’t like it cooked.
****Regular onions, because I didn’t have any green ones on hand.
*****1 28-ounce can of Italian style whole peeled tomatoes (again because that is what I had).
It was mighty tasty, even with all the modifications. In fact it was so good I made it again for Meryl’s birthday. And here it is, the next day on rice, because we ate all the noodles.
Beef&veggies
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. This one is definitely a keeper and is being added into regular rotation. Buying odd cuts of meat seems to be a good thing for me to do. It forces me to come up with new dishes.
I found a likely candidate in my Better Homes and Gardens Crockery Cookbook (1994). The Beef and Vegetables in Red Wine Sauce sounded appealing and I had most of the ingredients on hand, well mostly, more on that later.
Beef and Vegetables in Red Wine Sauce
1 ½ pounds boneless beef bottom round steak, cut into 1-inch cubes*
1 tablespoon cooking oil (olive oil works just fine)
2 medium carrots, cut into 1/2 – inch pieces**
2 stalks celery, cut into ½-inch pieces***
1 cup quartered fresh mushrooms
½ cup sliced green onions****
3 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca
1 14 ½-ounce can Italian-style stewed tomatoes*****
1 cup beef broth
½ cup dry red wine, white wine or beef broth (?) Use red.
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, crushed
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 bay leaf
1) Trim fat from meat; cut into 1-inch cubes. In a large skillet brown beef, half at a time, in hot oil. Drain off fat.
2) Transfer beef to a 3 ½- or 4-quart crockery cooker. Add carrots, celery, mushrooms, and green onions. Sprinkle with tapioca.
3) Combine undrained tomatoes, beef broth, wine or broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Pour over vegetables and meat.
4) Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 8 to 10 hours or on high heat setting for 4 to 5 hours. Discard bay leaf. Serve over hot cooked noodles. Makes 6 to 8 servings.
*Beef short ribs (duh!)
**peeled baby carrots cut into thirds
***I omitted the celery because: 1. My hubby can’t eat it and 2. I don’t like it cooked.
****Regular onions, because I didn’t have any green ones on hand.
*****1 28-ounce can of Italian style whole peeled tomatoes (again because that is what I had).
It was mighty tasty, even with all the modifications. In fact it was so good I made it again for Meryl’s birthday. And here it is, the next day on rice, because we ate all the noodles.
Beef&veggies
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar. This one is definitely a keeper and is being added into regular rotation. Buying odd cuts of meat seems to be a good thing for me to do. It forces me to come up with new dishes.
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