Truth in Ink

Last night at dinner the subject of tattoos came up. Namely Nate announced that he was interested. I have no recollection on how the conversation ended up on the subject, but there we were.

Tattoos are not something that appeals to either my husband or me. Neither of us has been inked with the exception of a very large and lurid temporary dragon tattoo I got when I was in Wisconsin. One day a half dozen or so women in the lab I worked in decided we would all get temporary tattoos. We picked a place that was adjacent to the neighborhood bar and piled in. Except for Chen Hui and me, everybody else got rather small discrete ones. Chen Hui got a palm sized snarling black panther head on her shoulder a I got a 5 inch long coiled dragon holding a rose positioned just below the notch in my clavicle. The funny part was that the tattooist seriously asked if I was sure since it was so very large. I reminded him it was temporary and that I understood what was going on. It was fun while it lasted, but I was glad when it was gone a week later. The real thing, however, doesn’t interest me because it is permanent and I’m a wimp. And I won’t even go into the religious ramifications.

Anyway enough about me and my wild youth, lets get back to the dinner table.

After a pause to digest this thought I asked Nate if he knew what happens when you get a tattoo.

He shook his head no.

Ah-ha, I had a perfect answer to his inquiry.

I told him simply and plainly that it involved a needle being repeatedly poked into the skin. You get jabbed hundreds of times by this needle. The color was poked into the skin by the needle where it stays for the rest of your life. After the tattoo is applied the area can be bloody and sore and you have to care for it until it heals. I then mentioned it is possible to remove a tattoo, but it has to be burned off with a laser.

Nate’s eyes got big and round and the idea of a tattoo was driven clean out of his head.

Nothing like the truth to nip an idea in the bud.

A little Hoop Action

Last night we went to a VCU basketball game. The team is hot and the game was sold out. So we showed up very early to get parking (ideally free) and good seats (we had general admission and with six people it pays to show up early). We completely scored on both counts.

Our parking space was right out front. It was legal, free and three cars away from the entrance. As we pulled up Larry wasn’t sure if it was big enough for the van, but I assured him it was and with Larry’s superior parallel parking skills, he was able to neatly slip the van in.

Then on to the game, we breezed in and headed to our section. It wasn’t clear how far down we could go, theoretically the rows closer to the floor are for students, but we couldn’t tell where. So we decided to get the best seats we could and worry about it later. We ended up filling a whole row.

The game itself was amazing, the teams were closely matched and you really had to stay until the end to see who won.

VCU
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

Nate and Jake were enthralled by the game.

Nate
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

Max and Rebecca, however, were less than thrilled and wanted to leave after 15 minutes. Rebecca did like cheerleaders so she was entrained whenever they took they court. Here is a short film of the cheering squad in action.


In the end VCU beat Old Dominion. I guess we are good luck for the team; every time we go, VCU wins.

Snow Day

Of all our children, Rebecca has been the one most concerned about the dearth of winter weather. To be a bit more specific, she wants snow and she wants it now.

Rebecca
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

We got lucky when we were up at Nana’s. During the last few days of our stay she got her wish, albeit in a rather slushy form.

Yesterday, Thursday, we got the first snow fall of the year, heck of the season.

I had noticed some fine powdery flakes on the car as I escorted Jake and Nate to the bus stop. They were excited over the news and wanted to know if we would get more. I told them that the forecast was that *if* it stays cold enough through the day we *might* get a bit of snow late afternoon. Shortly after I got the brown eyed boys onto the bus, big clumpy flakes of snow fell from the sky.

snowing
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

The snow didn’t last very long. It snowed on and off all morning, turned to sleet in the afternoon and was gone by sunset, but little Miss. Rebecca was still able to leave her mark. As I was loading the dynamic duo into the van for preschool, I noticed these little handprints in the snow.

handprints
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

While I was busy with Max, he can be rather balky in the morning; she had entertained herself by making prints in the snow on top of a storage chest outside. It has warmed up again, but Rebecca would like a little bit more snow.

Me too.

I’m Frightened

This is a disturbing item from my referrer logs, I am apparently number three in Google for, I kid you not “septic tank guy strip club kansas.”

I just don’t want to know.

Thursday Three: Imaginary Places and Things!

It’s now time to enter the magical and mystical realm of the Thursday Three. Papa Possum wants to know what fills your dreams.

UNICORNS!!

And such things, because this week’s Axis of Weevil Thursday Three (America’s Most Popular Thing!) is all about fantasy and flights of fancy and falderal such as that! Why? I have no idea, other than the fact that I can’t remember asking questions like this before.

So then, take a moment and take leave of your senses and ponder these three questions about all sorts of made-up things!

1) Of the fictional sorts of outlandish made-up places you’ve ever seen in the movies or read about, which one would you most like to live in, and why?

2) If you were a cartoon character, which cartoon character would you most like to be married to?

3) Which would you rather have right now--flying cars, or robot servants?

There now--start dreaming and either leave your answers in the comments below or a link to that magical fantasyland blog of yours.

Hmmm, imaginary places and things, I like this topic.

1) Ha! I’ve got just the book for this week’s question. Many, many moons ago I got The Dictionary of Imaginary Places. Finally it has a use other than just sitting up in the attic.

The place I would most like to live in is a bit of a toss-up.

I like Pern, because fire lizards and dragons are cool and I would definitely be a dragonrider. Narnia (post White Witch) gets a vote because I like the talking animals. Or I could settle down in The Shire (without ringwraiths), because it seems very bucolic and I like living in the country.

Yes, I know that three places, but it is so hard to choose just one, though they all seem to fit together in that they have castles and such. I like castles.

2) If I was a cartoon character who would I be married too? That’s a hard one because most of the adult male cartoon characters are clueless. However, there is one that is both smart and available and he is Dr. Benton Quest. He is a brilliant scientist that travels around the world with really cool gadgets, solving all sorts of scientific mysteries. Race Bannon is appealing in a hunky sort of way and is good with kids, but blonds are not my thing. Mr. Incredible would be another good choice, but he would never leave Elastigirl.

3) Robot servants would win hands down. Then I would have a clean house and I wouldn’t have to actually do anything. If I was married to Dr. Quest I would get both. He would build me robots and then we would jet off in the hover car that he already owns.

Ah well, now I have to get back to reality which unfortunately involves a messy house and a busted garage door. Maybe Mr. Incredible would be a better choice, because then we could open the garage door.

Artist of the Week: Wooden Toys

This week’s artist is a special two for one edition featuring both Max and Rebecca.

Max&Rebecca
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

Max&Rebecca2
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

Last weekend Max was invited to a birthday party and Rebecca was not. At first I was a little miffed on her part and then I realized at some point they will have separate social circles and that they will not always be invited to the same parties. When I called up and accepted Max’s invite, the birthday boy’s mother told me that David (the birthday boy) wanted only boys at his party because “Girls are too loud.” (Which is a fair statement in regards to Rebecca.) Rebecca was a bit disappointed, but between an extravaganza of My Little Pony DVDs and my playing Candy Land with her she got over it very quickly. And let me state here: Candy Land is possible the world’s most boring game for an adult to play. There is no strategy, just the luck of the draw.

Anyway, all was fine until Max came home. He had received a balloon and a little kit to make a wooden biplane. She got a bit jealous and was coping until the bombshell hit.

Max told her that she had been invited and that David asked “where was Rebecca” when he first saw Max. She had a complete melt down. In the end I was able to calm her down when I pulled out an extra wooden race car from “the party box” that had been left over from an older brother’s birthday party.

Sometimes it pays to be a pack rat.

So here are the finished products:

Car&plane
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

I helped with the gluing and gave Max a few pointers on how to paint, but the color scheme was entirely up to Max and Rebecca. They love their new toys and are very pleased that they got to do some building and painting.

The Nanny State

The Louisville mayor Jerry Abramson recently signed into effect a rather odious pet ordinance into law. The 94 page document will affect all pet owners in the Louisville metro area. The problems with it are far too numerous for me to point out here, but here are a few.

All stray dogs will be spayed/neutered, even if the dog is claimed by the owner. So if I’m at a dog show and some nut (and this does happen) lets loose my dog and animal control picks it up, my dog’s show career is over and any hope of using it in my breeding program.

If I live in the metro area, every time I travel with or board my intact dog I must notify in writing the Director of Lousiville/Jefferson County Metro Animal Services.

If I board any pet for more than three days it has to be revaccinated, even if its shots were up to date.

If it is felt that I am not capable in controlling my pet it will be impounded.

The list goes on and on.

Until this law is repealed, I am not going to Louisville with my dogs. And I think it effectively ends all dog shows and ethical dog breeding in the Louisville metro area. Ethical breeders can not function in such an environment.

Currently Virginia is in the midst of its legislative session and has its own crop of anti-pet laws. Last year a law was signed in that formed a state wide rabies vaccination database. Information about the pet, its owner and home address will be posted on this public database. The idea was to promote dog licensing. When you vaccinate your pet, the county will be notified. My guess this will cause a drop in vaccination when people realize what is going on.

My club, and others in the state, are going to be watching the bills very carefully this session and will do our best to stop them. The sad thing is if the existing laws were enforced most of the problems that the new laws “solve” wouldn’t exist.

I got two, Because I’m Special

Since all the cool kids are doing it, namely the Llamas, Jordana and Terry; I thought I would join in on the fun.

First off I went for my name:

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: Her Most Serene Highness Lady Sarah G. the Sanguine of Old Yarkhillshire Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

Then I went for my email handle:

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is: Milady the Most Honourable Teckelcar the Canine of Chortling Chesterton Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

This was the first result and I thought it was utterly amazing. You see Teckel is the alternate name for dachshund in Germany.

Unfortunately I don’t think the kids are going to go for calling me by either title. They all ready refuse to call me Madam President since my election last September.

Another Dreary Winter Weekend

Not

We got treated to another weekend of temperatures in the low 70’s and this time the kids upped the ante. In addition to t-shirts, and for Nate and Max bare feet, they had a squirt gun battle.

I still can’t get over the idea of squirt guns in the middle of January.

Anyway, as any good mother would I shot a little film of the boys in action. As an added bonus Rebecca flies through at one point.



It is a fairly unremarkable clip, but it makes me smile every time I watch it.

Cupcake Blogging

snowmancupcakes
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

Aren't these cute?

I made these for Jake's class before winter break. On the last day of school before break, his class had their winter party.

Originally I wanted gumdrops for the nose, but they were impossible to find so I settled on Dots. Technically they are a type of gumdrop, but they don't have the sugar frosting. The rest of face was made with the ever popular chocolate chips. I was pretty happy with how they turned out.

Jake said they weren't as popular as the last batch of cupcakes I brought in. However they were competing against a boatload of candy for the gingerbread houses they were making.

Anyway I liked them and Rebecca wants me to make them for her class.

Thursday Three: The Bold, The New And The Edgy!

It’s time to go to Terry to find out about what’s hot at the Thursday Three!

Upon the cutting edge!

As part of Possumblog’s insistence in 2007 of being NEW and BOLD and FRESH, we’re gonna take the Axis of Weevil Thursday Three (The World’s Most Exciting New, Bold, and Fresh Online Diversion!) to some new places today!

Specifically, Las Vegas, and Detroit, and Harrisburg!

Yep, today we’re going to ask you for your thoughts on the swanky 40th Annual Consumer Electronics Show, the super-sexy 100th North American International Auto Show, and the ultra-cool 91st Annual Pennsylvania Farm Show, the largest indoor agricultural show in the entire country!

As usual, the media buzz surrounding these events is deafening, and in order to stay out there where all the hip and savvy people are, we’d like to solicit your opinions about what all you’ve heard and seen there.

SO, take a moment and tell us:

1) What do you think is the most significant product introduced at the Consumer Electronic Show?

2) What is the biggest surprise of the Detroit Auto Show?

3) What one thing are you most excited about at the Farm Show?

After you’ve all had a chance to visit all the venues, leave your comments below or a link to your blog, and let’s find out what’s HOT this year!!

Right now the only hot thing I got going is my lunch. So I guess I’ll amble over and check out all the new hotness out there.

1) Nothing really grabs me at the CES. Everybody is going on about the iphone and the new mondo 108 inch LCD TV. The item that I thought was the most interesting was this gizmo under personal electronics that got a Best Innovation award. I couldn’t figure out what it was until I clicked on the tiny image and the company’s web site. It’s a hearing aid that has been all gussied up to look cool.

2) I like cars and I do enjoy driving them, but car shows are not my thing. My only observation about this year's show is the growing trend to make cars look like transformers. If they could make a car that was enjoyable to drive and could transform into a house cleaning robot or maybe a generator, then I could get excited.

3) I love farm shows. I think the two most exciting events are the celebrity milking contest (sadly there are no results or video, yet) and the end of the day culinary student cook-off utilizing Pennsylvania products.

I guess I’m not edgy or cool.

Artist of the Week: Drawing

This week’s artist is little Miss Rebecca.


Rebecca
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

She constantly astonishes me on how her drawing progresses. She drew this picture a few days ago.


Charlie,Maxandthesnowman
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

It is of a man, Max (note the blond hair), walking his dog, Charlie, by a snowman.

Each figure is fully recognizable ad does not require explanations from the artist. Ok the dog is a bit odd, but you do have to grant her a small bit of artist freedom. She loves drawing snow man and it is evident with the attention to detail.

Rebecca’s drawings are so very different from her brothers. I don’t know if it is a girl thing or a Rebecca thing. Either way I love how her art changes and grows.

Smack Dab in the Middle

Diane has a link to a brain gender test over at her place. She came out as thinking like an average man. I know I have potential to skew results with my scientific leanings so I thought I would give it a try.

I came out smack dab in the middle. Apparently I’m in touch with both my male and female sides.

I would have loved to retake the match the angle bit with a slightly less balky mouse and I know I was hampered by my less than stellar typing for the verbal test. I think I got too hung up on spelling.

The most interesting part was when I measured my ring fingers and index fingers. On my right hand the two are the same size (66 mm), which is normal for women. On my left hand I got a bit of a surprise. I’ve never noticed this before, but my index finger (69mm) is significant longer than my ring (65 mm). Now it is blindingly obvious to me, but until tonight I had never noticed the disparity.

Oh and I totally ruled in the three-D spatial awareness. A trait I honed when I learned how to pack a Super Beetle for college. My husband has learned to absolutely trust my judgment on whether or not something will fit.

Rebecca's Wish

About 6 or so months ago Rebecca has been asking when it was going to snow. My stock response was “sometime in December.”

As December grew closer and the weather remained mild, I started to hedge my bets. I would tell her that there was a chance that it would snow in December, but the bulk of our snow occurs in January and February. Then I would remind her that we would be going to Nana’s at the end of December and there would be snow at Nana’s house.

Around mid-December I started to worry. My mother had gotten a light dusting of snow, but it was all gone the next day. There was no snow in Vermont. For our trip up north was going to be the Green Mountain State for real.

Rebecca was disappointed when we first got to my mother’s house, but she held firm in her beliefs that it would snow. Christmas came and went and there was still no snow. That night, as I tucked her into bed she stated “It’ll snow tomorrow.”

That night she got her wish. This is what greeted our eyes the next morning.


Nana'sbackyard
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

The kids had a quick breakfast, stuffed themselves into their snow gear (that I had fortunately dragged up North) and piled outside to play, meanwhile I shoveled the drive. About halfway through the driveway Rebecca wandered over it see what I was doing and then headed inside.

Once I was done with my self appointed task I moved to the backyard to take pictures of the kids. The boys were having a great time making miniature snowmen and knocking them over with snowballs. The snow was very wet and was perfect for packing into snowballs.


Jake
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

This is what the yard looked like after a few hours with my kids.
When I was satisfied with my pictures I headed inside.

When Rebecca saw me prying off my boots she burst into tears. After a few minutes of very distressed crying I found out she wanted me to take pictures of her in the snow.

Well that’s an easy fix.

We both bundled up and went back outside.


Pleased
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

If you click on the above picture you get a whole series of pictures of the kids playing in the snow. And as an extra special treat I even shot a short movie of their snowball fight.


I like their version of a snowball fight. There are a whole lot less tears involved than in the traditional version. Jake and Nate, with a little help from Max and Rebecca, made a series of small snowmen. The objective is knock over the other team’s snowmen.

They all had a great time and their snow pants and jackets were soaked by the end. We wisely held off on sledding until the next day. Larry and I figured that the hill would be a big sloppy mess, but with a good over night freeze it would be perfect sledding conditions the next day.

And boy were we right. At least this year we didn’t bust any sleds.

Global Warming

I don’t know if there is any truth to this whole “Global Warming “ thing, the planet has had its warming and cooling cycles before, but it has been much warmer than usual this winter.

This weekend it hit 70, yes 70 in central Virginia. So Larry and the brown eyed boys piled outside to play a little football (Max said it was too hot out and declined to play).


JanuaryFootball
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

Yes, Nate is barefoot and both boys are in shorts.

Rebecca and I stuck to capris and I found the yard to be a bit wet and squishy, but it was fun to be outside barefoot in early January. I also like the effect on my heating bill, but I do miss winter.

I’m just a little old northern girl at heart.

Sugar Cookies

In honor of “Cultures Around the World” I baked sugar cookies for Nate’s class. Since his teacher had chosen Israel, I used my “Hebrew Alphabet” cookie cutters. I bought them a long time ago, but I had never used them. Finally I had gotten the incentive I needed to break them out.

Usually I just make chocolate chip cookies, they are easy to make. The dough doesn’t need to chill, I do not have to roll out the dough and cookie cutters are not used. The chocolate chip cookie is all about immediate gratification. Sugar cookies require advance planning and preparation. As a result, they are rarely made.

The recipe I use is from my beloved 1975 edition of “Betty Crocker’s Cooky Book”. I was all set to make “Mary’s Sugar Cookies” when I encountered a problem, a big problem. I was completely out of powdered sugar. So I decided to go with the neighboring recipe, “Ethel’s Sugar Cookies”. Ethel’s uses regular old granulated sugar and was probably a better choice since I could use vanilla and avoid the almond flavoring in Mary’s and the possibility for nut allergies in the class (I was told there aren’t any, but I like to err on the side of caution). It was a first for me to make this variation, but I have found this book to be very relable and the recipes have all turned out tasty.

Ethel’s Sugar Cookies

¾ cup shorting (part butter or margarine)*
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
½ tsp lemon flavoring or 1 tsp vanilla**
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt

Mix shortening, sugar, eggs, and flavoring thoroughly. Measure flour by dipping method (p. 5) or by sifting. Stir flour, baking powder, and salt together: blend in. Chill at least 1 hour.

Heat oven to 400 (mod. hot). Roll dough 1/8” thick on a lightly floured board. Cut with 3” cooky cutter. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake 6 to 8 minutes, or until the cookies are a delicate golden color. Makes about 4 dozen cookies.

*All butter of course
**I used vanilla, but next time maybe lemon

I chilled the dough overnight. In fact I made 1 ½ batches and baked cookies over a three day period. It was nice being able to pull out the dough and bake small batches at a time. Another good trick is to place a sheet of waxed paper or plastic wrap on top of the dough as you roll it out. It creates a smoother top cookie.

And here is a picture of some of the finished product:


sugarcookies
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

I sprinkled a little blue sugar on them before they went in the oven. I think the effect was quite nice and the cookies were delicious. I baked a small batch for Meryl using my Star of David cutters and she agreed. In fact she wants to borrow my alef-bet cutters in the future.

Thursday Three: Shiny!

To kick off the new year Terry presents us with an all new and possibly shiny Thursday Three.

So Fresh, So NEW!

So VERY 2007ish!

Of what do we speak? Why the All New, Super Terrific, Two Thousand Seven, Axis of Weevil Thursday Three!

What with a brand new year ahead of us, why don’t we find some bright shiny new questions and see what people have to say!

::looking around for shiny things::

Hmm.

Well.

Okay, so these are going to be pretty much like any of the other set of three questions we’ve ever asked. Just play along and act like they’re fresh and exciting.

1) What new thing would you like to attempt in the New Year?

2) What one new thing do you really, REALLY need (not want, but truly need) to have?

3) What grungy old ramshackle thing do you have that you should replace with something shiny and new but just can’t bring yourself to make the switch?

SO, there you go--all of you rush out and purchase some nice new thinking caps and either answer in the comments below or leave a link to your blog and we’ll come over and oooh and ahhhh over it! Remember, anyone can play along, even if you’re a raging kainophobe!

Oooo! So Shiny! And New!

Erm, sorta, well not really unless you squint and tilt your head, but that's never stopped me.

1) I can't think of any new things I'd like to attempt this year. I think I would like to rejoin the paid workforce this fall when Max and Rebecca start kindergarten, but that is not really something new.

2) I really need to get the light in the brown-eyed boys' room replaced. It shorted out a long time ago and I tried to get an electrician to come and then I forgot about it. It really needs to be done. I would also like to replace my wall oven that is coupled with an obsolete microwave with a double oven, but that is more of a want than a need.

3) I don't know if this qualifies, but I do have an armchair that desperately needs to be recovered. It is quite grungy and old. But do to budgetary restraints and the fact that I'm loath to get nice furniture before certain members of the family stop jumping on the furniture I'm not going to make the switch. I just keep reminding myself that it's an antique.

That's it for me, I'm not that exciting this week. I guess I'm not one of those shiny and new types.

Artist of the Week: Gingerbread House

This week's artist is Jake.


Jake
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

This is an out take from our yearly holiday card photo session (to see the winning entries click here and here). I think he looks so handsome here and even Crunch looks good.

Now onto the gingerbread house.

It was a class project on the last day of school before winter break. I was amazed that it made it home in one piece.


front
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

If you click on the picture it will lead you to a whole series of photos from different angles.

Anyway, I think it is very cute and I love how you can see the milk carton in the rear view. He did a nice job decorating it and dearly wanted me to preserve it in pictures. I never made these growing up and a small part of my Yankee soul views them as a big waste of candy and gingerbread, but I do like looking at them.

An Evening with the Governor

As I mentioned last year, my husband and I got to attend a party at the Governor's mansion.

It was the first night of Chanukah and Meryl was just able to get the candles lit before Sabbath. It was a close call, I was out picking up dinner while she watched the kids and got things going.

Anyway, for once I was ready and left the house on time. Life is so much easier when I don't have to marshal the troops. The plan was that I would meet Larry in Richmond and we would enter the Governor's mansion together, enjoy the party and then we would go out for dinner at a nearby sushi place.

The mansion was quite pretty and nicely lit on the outside. I took a picture, but since I didn't have a tripod handy the picture really doesn't do it justice.


Governor's
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

Larry got a much better shot of me at the front door just before we went in.


Frontdoor
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

It actually took him a couple attempts to took this picture. The first time he was just about to take it when the doorman whipped the door open. He quickly understood what we were doing and closed the door and waited for us to be ready.

When we entered the mansion the first person we noticed was the Governor. He is a very approachable person, he welcomed us to his home and then we chatted a bit with him when my cell phone rang. Figuring it was Meryl, since the only other person who ever calls me on my cell was next to me, I excused myself and retreated to an empty room to take the call. It was indeed Meryl and she was wanted to know if the dogs had been fed. The kids did not know and the dogs, being hounds, looked hungry. I told that the dogs had indeed been fed and then said "guess who I was just talking to? It was the Governor!" Once I was done with the phone I wandered back into the hall to find my husband.

We mingled for a bit with some of his coworkers and then we joined the line for a photo with the Governor. When it was our turn I was very impressed that he remembered us from earlier, namely he asked me who called. I cheerfully told him it was the babysitter and she wanted to know if the dogs had been fed.

I know it is a minor detail, but a telling one. Tim Kaine is a pretty sharp guy. I don't think Warner would have noticed and certainly not Gilmore.

The party itself was quite good. There was an open bar stocked with top shelf drinks and an outrageously tasty buffet. I could have easily grazed there all evening and would have gotten a nice meal out of it. Instead we ate heartily, but not fully since we were planning to go out for sushi afterwards. It worked out well. I like sushi, but I don't find it particularly filling. This way I could savor our dinner without filling starved afterwards.

As for pictures of the party I limited myself to just one.


gingerbread
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

I couldn't resist photographing a gingerbread house made by the Governor's family. If you click to enlarge the picture you can just read the card next to it. I thought it was a charming little thing nestled amongst all the antique finery of the mansion.

Normally I hate cocktail parties, but this one was fun. I know some of Larry's coworkers and I had a good time talking with them. Of course the two gin tonics didn't hurt either. I was in a very happy place. It was a fun date night for me and my husband. Thank you Meryl for a such a lovely birthday present.

Happy New Year!

I wish you all a healthy and happy New Year.

We are home again and I must say it is nice to be back.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to all that celebrate.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

First Night

FirstNight
Originally uploaded by Teckelcar.

Happy Chanukah!

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

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.

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.

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:

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

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.

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.

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

Obi-Wan Kenobi 69% Qui-Gon Jinn 67% R2-D2 66% Padme 62% Princess Leia 62% Chewbacca 57% Mace Windu 56% Yoda 55% C-3PO 54% Luke Skywalker 52%

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 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.

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.

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.

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 are cheap 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.

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.

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.

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 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.