Busy, Busy, Busy...

OY and Vey!

I have been so busy these past few weeks, I feel like I have been on a roller coaster and merry-go-round at the same time! Between getting ready for the holidays, the kids arrivals home, the never-ending school work (and last paper!!!), and work related projects, my time has not been my own to do whatever I wanted to do. My “to-do” list is finally caught up...almost.

The kids arrived safely home from Rhode Island and Grenada, and my time with them went excessively fast. I love when they are home, and with me. I love each second. Thanksgiving was here at my home, celebrated with my mom, and three of my siblings and their families. The food was yummy, and in just the right amounts. My brined turkey was a hit again! (Thankfully)

Black Friday was a day filled with shopping with Caitlin, Daniel, Jillian, and my sister Gidget. We really did not do much shopping (not many sales), but we had fun being together. (we are very cheap entertainment for each other).

This past weekend, my sister Gidget, niece Jillian, Caitlin, Daniel, and I baked cookies. I was not going to even bake this year (Lack of time), but when they offered to help, I took them up on their offer, and we did a ton of baking. The cookies in the picture are peanut butter mice Jillian and Caitlin baked! They are too cute. In between cookie baking, I took my sisters Sue and mom to see the Three Irish Tenors do their annual Christmas show in the states. We saw them last year and my mom loved them. Therefore, I had to take her back again! We had fun.

I have hauled all the holiday decorations out of the basement and now have a huge job ahead of me, and with both kids gone, and Jim working, I might find myself decorating less this year. Less is best anyway. The holidays are, after all, more than tinsel and greens.

I am thankful for my busy and very full life.

The Sounds of the Holidays

One of the vivid holiday memories I have form my childhood is the many shopping trips my sister and I took with my grandmother (my dad’s mom) when we were younger. She would come to our house and walk us to the bus stop, where we would wait patiently (well not really) for the city bus to pick us up. The bus would head towards Asbury Park, where we would walk and shop with MomMom for most of the day.

When we were younger (oh so long ago) Asbury Park was a thriving and wonderful place to shop (thankfully that, too, is making a comeback!). As little girls, we would have been given a small amount of money to buy for everyone, and the best place to do that was at HL Greens or JJ Newberry’s, two great five and dime places. And, JJ Newberry’s had an awesome food counter where we would end our lunch with an ice cream sundae! It could not have been any better!

As we strolled throughout Asbury, we would be awestruck by all holiday decorations, the lights, the sounds (the bell ringers), and smells of Christmas (yes theses were the days of roasted chestnuts). One of the things I remember fondly was my MomMom’s lectures on giving to those who were unfortunate. She would have us each place one precious coin in the red kettle of the Salvation Army. Parting with the coins was hard as little kids, but we did it, and eventually grew old enough to understand the value of parting with them.

So today, I cannot pass a red kettle without thinking about MomMom or giving when I can to those who need it more. Thank you MomMom for instilling those precious values in each of us.

Remembering Guiness

My friend Faith had to euthanize her dog this week, and I know exactly how she feels. Making that decision is never easy, and unless you are a pet owner, you cannot begin to even understand how it feels. It's heart breaking.

Guiness had been sick for a while, and even though Faith knew in her heart his days might be numbered, she persevered and continued to care for him as best she could. When the time came to make that decision, although hard, she knew it had to be done.

For those of you who have had to wrestle with making the decision to euthanize a pet, you might have wondered whether you did the right thing. I know after two of these heart wretching decisions, I had to think about it, and wonder myself. In the end, when you can finally catch your breathe, you do realize it was for the best. After talking to faith this week, I felt the pang of hurt all over again. I can see both their faces, Tyler and Brady, and still miss them. Pets are like kids (and I am not saying the loss is comparable), but it has to be very close.

Like me, Faith will meet up with her little guy one day, and I know that he is waiting for her on rainbow bridge...

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

"Mother's Little Helper"

During the 1960’s, Valium was known as “Mother’s Little Helper”, getting many women through their hectic days...snowing them until they could not recognize one day from the next. Valium was the drug that revolutionized the treatment of anxiety and became a cultural icon. It was the drug in the book Valley of the Dolls, which made it such a great read. The "dolls" within the title is a slang term for downers, or the mood altering drugs. Apparently, the drug is making a comeback; taken with alcohol to help drug addicts get through their hectic days (which I have no idea what that might be considered 'hectic' when one is a drug addict... Where to score the next drug? Which provider is cheaper? How to avoid being caught?)

As a mother, I too need a little helper, but my pills come in the form of something called a Kong. A Kong is pictured so the reader does not get confused, or think I might be confusing a Kong with a bong. I have times when I am trying to get schoolwork done, and I found myself trying to entertain 3 Goldens who think it is time to play. Therefore, I fill each Kong with peanut butter, and viola! I have three happy and very busy dogs working tirelessly to get to the peanut butter, thus helping mother get things done. MY little helper!

Unfortunately, I still feel the effects of sedation as I read through some of the posts on the bulletin board where I go to school...

Cancer Sucks

Cancer sucks. It really does. It has affected so many of my family and friends. In fact, I am hard pressed to find anyone whose life has not been affected by it.

My dad died of it when he was only 66. A young 66 at that. He was initially diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and fought a three-year long battle to defeat it. Unfortunately it won. At the time of his death, he also was diagnosed with TWO other forms of cancer. It seems one kind was not enough.

Several years ago I was sitting in my doctor’s office when she found a mass on my thyroid. After many tests and a surgery to remove the right lobe of my thyroid, the cell was identified and although a rare cell, it was not malignant. The time between the initial finding and the final pathology report was rough. During this time, I thought of my dad on daily basis. If it was to be a malignant cancer, would I be as strong as my dad? Thankfully I was not to be tested. This time.

Then several months later, a lump was found on my husband’s thyroid. He was not it seemed, as lucky. His cancer was malignant, has since had his entire thyroid removed, and will be treated with radioactive iodine in the near future. Thyroid cancer is one the easiest cancers to treat so his prognosis, if you will, is good. Despite the good news, the whole ordeal did take its emotional toll on all of his. Cancer robs us physically and emotionally. It sucks.

Both my husband and I are proactive with our health. Thankfully. So we don’t sit waiting for nasty cells to invade us. We wait, watching for them. I only wish everyone would be as vigilant with their bodies.

Happy Birthday Kelly!

Happy Birthday to Kelly! She turns 21 today and I am sending her all the best in having a wonderful day!

Love ya Kelly!! (Daniel's 1.5) =)

Rhode Island!

I recently went to Rhode Island with my sister Sue to visit Daniel and Kelly. We had a great time visiting with the kids, and getting out and doing some exploring. Kelly was sweet enough to make sure we had fun, and she took us down to Newport. It is a quaint and historic little town on the water. The shopping was great and the grilled cheese sandwich even better.

We took in other food places and all had a ball. Kelly and Daniel seem very happy together, and that makes me happy. We also celebrated her birthday, which is this Friday. Daniel is a character, so spending time with him usually brings on a bunch of laughs, and this time was no exception. Sue was able to go to a BIG Christmas Shop, which might have been the highlight of her trip. I bought the kids a butcher-block table/storage thingie, and watching Daniel put it together was like watching Bob Vila in action! =)

I cannot wait to go again!

Thank You Dr. Clarence Manziano!

I read the obits every day. I know I am not alone in doing this daily ritual. Many people read them for the obvious reasons. I started reading them because my mom moved from one area of NJ to another and no longer got the local paper, so I made sure that if anyone died she might know, I could let her know. Now it is simply a part of my reading the morning paper routine.

The thing is I learn new things occasionally by reading them. For example, in today’s paper a well-known veterinarian, Dr. Clarence Manziano, passed away, who lived in the town where I grew up. I have no recollection of this man, but what is interesting is the fact that he did a great deal for Vet medicine. Returning to the United States, he testified before the New Jersey Legislature and was responsible for passage of the "Manziano Act”, which made it possible for veterinarians of Italian and Jewish descent to sit for the veterinary exam in New Jersey.
Before passage, only veterinarians educated in New Jersey could sit for the exam, and since no Italian or Jewish applicants were accepted during the 1940s, minorities were effectively precluded from practicing veterinary medicine in the state.

Among his many accomplishments, he worked as senior veterinarian for the Mexican American Foot and Mouth Commission to eliminate the deadly cattle disease, and was the U.S. delegate for the United Nations Commission on Foot and Mouth Disease.

Dr. Manziano worked as a field veterinarian for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Delaware and Maryland until 1952, when he took the post of veterinary epidemiologist for the New Jersey State Department of Health. It was during this period that he uncovered the transmission of the disease Psittacosis from an aviary of 5,000 birds to dairy cows and humans.

There is always something to learn somewhere.

Kristallnacht

“What I saw was hordes of people standing in front of a beautiful synagogue, and throwing stones through these magnificent, uh, colored windows. And, uh, as we arrived, of course we ran past the, the, the place itself, the noise, the shouting, the screaming. I suppose there was an, an aura of, of eeriness about it, because we still didn't know what was happening, but I suppose just the mere fact that so many people were there and were screaming and shouting and, and throwing stones into the, uh, stained glass windows was enough to make us run. We arrived in school and were immediately told that our parents would pick us up, we should remain calm but there would be no school that day. And indeed a few, uh, minutes later, or half an hour later, whatever the case may be, my mother did arrive and took me to my grandmother's home where my father already was. And here then unfolded slowly but surely the, uh, grim story of what happened during the night, that the synagogues all through Germany had been set on fire, destroyed. The, uh, Sifrei Torah [Torah scrolls] were burned in most cases. It is known that in Hamburg people sacrificed themselves to run into the synagogue to save some of the Sifrei Torah, hide them, and I believe were successful in doing so. Um, that the, uh, Jewish stores in the center of Hamburg, in the downtown area of Hamburg, had been demolished, windows had been, uh, broken, uh, the merchandise had been thrown into the streets, covered with water and with ink and--I mean it was a, a total chaos, a total destruction”.

This is a personal story from Johanna Gerechter Neumann, born in Hamburg, Germany in 1930.

Let us not forget her story, and the story of others who lived those two horrifying days....

Read more here: http://www.ushmm.org/remembrance/dor/years/detail.php?content=2008

A New Day..A New Country

I woke up today, like all of you, to a new president, Barack Obama. Despite my political views, I cannot help but pause to think that we have elected a president who’s middle name unnerves many of us, who is the son of an interracial couple, and who was raised by a couple who did not live within the America’s power and wealth. He is more like the average American, despite what you might think. (Let’s just put aside all the bad things that have been said about him, for a minute)

I cannot help but put myself in the shoes of all Black Americans today. The barrier has been broken. Imagine what might be going on in the mind of a young black boy who now knows he too could be a president someday. Imagine those who never thought Blacks could move forward, and let us face it, that mindset still, sadly, exists in this country.

I cannot help but think of Dr.Martin Luther King. His famous speech now echoes throughout this country.

I am not a Barack fan, although I am a Democrat. At this point, I just want a man who will redirect this country. I want a president that does not try to solve every problem but will do those things beyond the power of individual citizens to get things done. I want a president that will help to regulate the economy fairly. I want a president that will help keep the air clean and our food supplies safe. I want a president that helps to ensure that the sick will have access to health care. I want a president that will help to look past the walls of America to help ensure that children around the globe are educated and kept as healthy as possible.

The choice has been made. Now we have to stand behind this man and together as a nation reach goals that will benefit us all. This country cannot be redirected by one person; collectively, as a nation, we all have to reach for the goals together.

Vote, vote, vote...

Get out and vote...its your civic duty, it's your right and responsibilty as an American citizen!!

Our Very "me, me, me" Society

I have the belief that we live in a very “me” oriented society, in which many just think about themselves and not too many others, if any others. That said, as a labor and delivery nurse, I have noted that there are a great many women these days who are not happy being pregnant (even those who have planned the pregnancy), and that “glow of pregnancy” is viewed more as a scowl. As many of my readers know, I normally do not share work related topics, but I have to tonight.

I had a patient come into labor and delivery tonight who was 34 weeks pregnant contracting and when I assessed that she was indeed contracting, I told her my plan was to start an IV to hydrate her, and hope that it might stop the contractions. Her immediate reply, “I do not want another 8 pound baby, so if it is labor, then I do not want it to stop”. I immediately explained that at 34 weeks she was still considered premature and that the baby might have respiratory difficulties. I have plenty of friends who had premature babies and they did fine”.

When I run across people like this who have little regard for the baby they are carrying, I want to grab them and shake sense into them. BUT of course, that might not go over big with the patients or the hospital bigwigs. Why are people so selfish? What makes them have little regard for another little human being? Why can’t women accept the fact that pregnancy is not something to be rushed through? I seriously do not get it.

I can understand being frustrated. I can understand the desire to end the pregnancy when you feel huge and swollen and miserable, but when you are 34 weeks, and your little one is depending on your for a few more weeks, and you have that opportunity, and you throw in the towel...I simply do not understand that selfishness. Pregnancy does not come with a fast service option.

Thank you for reading.

Happy Birthday Daniel Boone

Yes, it is Daniel's birthday, and I thought I would take a minute and share this fact with you. I fondly remember watching that show with my siblings. I also remember my brothers running around with sticks, shooting us with raccoon hats on their heads. Silly little boys, but cute.

I also remember my brothers carrying around stinky a rabbit's foot in their pockets for good luck. What is it about boys and yucky things. Oh sure little girls can be yucky too, but not like little boys (my mother might disagree). My Daniel was always messy, and I fondly remember his infatuation with large bugs! He loved to carry them in the house and show me, usually dropping them along the way. He has never really outgrown his messy streak, although he has gotten better (right Kelly???) Please tell me he has.

Caitlin on the other hand was my neat child, but she tended to get messier as she aged. And there's always the stories about her trips home from playing with the heifers. OY, what a smell! But she loved being with them, so her smell was a happy smell.

So as long as they are happy, who cares about messy, and sticky, and gross.

Happy Birthday Daniel Boone!

November Obligations

According to Martha Stewart, who I rarely reference because she and I are no longer friends (long story), November is the month to do the following:

Vote. I’ll add it is your duty as an American, so do it!

Set the clocks back. Love that extra hour of sleep!

Turn down the heat. (I would have to turn on first, but ask anyone I know, and my house is NEVER over heated).

Make sure the house is draft free. It is, thank you, although if I didn’t have to let Madison in and out so many times...

Inspect you trees for those branches that with heavy snow might come crashing down. Well Martha, here’s the thing. I have been after Jim for about three years now to do that, and WE still have branches looming overhead, ready to wreck havoc...so I will defer him to you. Oh wait, he hates you. That will not work.

Clean gutters! DONE!!

Preserve pots. You mean I should not leave the dead plants in the pots sitting out all winter until spring?? That takes away the challenge of trying to remove dead old plants from pots come spring.

Check baking supplies for freshness. You are talking to the baker here...

Okay Martha, check and double check. Now I can move into November with a sense of accomplishment already!

Holiday Shopping

Yesterday while at the mall, while waiting for my eyeglasses to be made, and with an hour to kill, I found myself starting to Christmas Shop. It wasn't hard to do since the center of the mall is now decorated and ready for Santa. (Which is also weird, because the kids would be trick or treating there that same night). Talk about rushing things along...how does that work?

Child: Mom is Santa coming soon?

Mom: Not tonight.

Child: But where is he?

Mom: Sleeping.

Child: But why is his chair there?

Mom: He will be here soon.

Child: When"

Mom: Soon (thinking he is probably due in next week)

Child: Can we come back and see him tomorrow?

Mom: Let's just get some candy and go home.

Poor kids. They can hardly digest their Snicker Bars and popcorn balls before it is time to open their gifts from Santa. Oh, and while they are digesting the candy, we have to shove Turkey in there too.

I don't remember the holidays feeling so rushed as a kid. Which is good, because I might have gotten bored with Santa hanging around so long. Now a days, kids can hardly take a breath before the next holiday is upon them. Life is short. Why can't we just space things out a bit and not rush things. We are racing a society of kids who WANT and WANT it faster and faster.

Jack-O-Lanterns

It seems carving pumpkins is just not the same when you do not have little ones, or even the bigger version of children to help you. However, I still tackle the chore each year, so that I have Jack-O-Lanterns on my front porch for the trick-or-treaters who visit for Halloween, and a handful of roasted seeds to nibble on as well.

So this am, after two cups of coffee, I pulled out my sharpest knives (Thanks Daniel) and got to work. The first pumpkin was moldy inside, which was disappointing since I love to pull out the seeds and roast them. But I dug in, and scooped, and carved the typical face. Each pumpkin was given triangle eyes, a triangle nose, and a toothy grin. Cute, but nothing elaborate. Pumpkins two and three were carved out, and the faces, again, simple, but done using a similar face although io reversed the triangles. The seeds were scooped and put aside for roasting.

After the cleanup, I mixed the seeds with steak sauce (Yes, Lea and Perrins Traditional Steak sauce), threw on some salt, and in the oven they went for a slow baking. I am sitting here with the smell of the roasting seeds wafting through the air and my mouth is watering. I know, they are only seeds, but still...

The chore is done. My porch now ready for Halloween. The candy bowls are out and full. Now I can begin to think about Christmas...Oh wait, I have already started doing that!

Christmas in New York City

One of the things I love about the holidays is heading into New York City. The lights, the people, the crowds, the shopping...the Rockettes!

From the time I was little, I have always loved watching the Rockettes. There might even be a tiny piece of me that secretly wished she could be one, or at best, kick my legs as high as they can kick. So when time and money permits, I have gone into the city and gone to Radio City Music hall to see the Christmas show, which features the girls. Even Caitlin has also taken me for my birthday and there has been no better gift.

The tree at Rockefeller Center is also a stop we have to make. It is always so pretty and you cannot help but marvel at its size. Watching the skaters is also fun, and one year we took the kids, as I believe everyone should glide across that ice at least one in their lifetime. Personally, I have not; my ankles will not allow me to strap on those torture devices.

There is always so much to see in the city, especially during the holidays. The store windows are wonderful. Even the smell of roasted chestnuts pulls me in each year. (The taste even better!) Sidewalk vendors abound, and the shopping is more fun when you have to push your way through the crowds. I love it!

This year I will head into the city and this time Cait and I are taking my niece and nephew into see the Rockettes as they have never seen them in person. I cannot wait to see their faces! I love the holidays!

Holiday Memory of a Roasted Goose in Germany

It is this time of year; I tend to feel more nostalgic about living in Germany. Jim and I had such a great experience living there and I miss it terribly at times, especially with the holidays approaching.

We were members of the German-American Club, which brought together our two cultures once a month for an evening of dinner and conversation. We would all eat out together, a different restaurant each month, and then each couple would host dessert back at their house. We met new friends, and learned everything we could about the German way of life.

One of the things we did one December was to attend a gathering at one of the local castles to have our holiday dinner. The main course was a roasted goose with all the trimmings. I can still smell and taste that dinner. The whole evening was so memorable; new friends, good food, in gorgeous holiday decorated surroundings. Why are some memories so vivid? I am thankful they are for me.

Over the course of the next couple of months, I intend on sharing some of my memorable holiday experiences with you all; and for some, it will be your memory as well. I love the holidays, and all the memories that are made with each, and every one.

Thoughts of Pumpkins, Goblins, and Ghosts

We were talking at work the other day about our childhood adventures while Trick or Treating. Those of us who are older, remember fondly heading out, without parents in tow, to have the most incredible experience possible. The first stop was the police department in town (when were real little) to get our bags, with one apple in it. then it we were off and running (literally).

There was a method to just how we would tackle getting the most candy. We strategically mapped out our route (ahead of time) making sure that each house, on each street in our small town was visited. The town I grew up in was a mere 6 blocks by 6 blocks, but when you have to ensure each house is gotten to, by a certain time, it was a bit daunting. But we always managed to pull it off. And successfully!

There were those towns people who insisted on serving us apple cider and donuts, so that cut into our time a bit, but how could we say no? And we also had those people in town who had us choose between candy or a handful of loose change. Those decisions alone cost us minutes. And because everyone knew our parents (daddy was cop in town), they insisted we chat a bit with them. Precious minutes ticking by...

Then back home it was time to sort out the candy. Of course, we lived in times when you didn't have to worry about idiots poisoning the popcorn balls or putting razor blades in the apples, so we were somewhat safe, but I do remember my parents taking a quick account of what might be in each bag. Sorting the candy merely meant pulling it out and taking inventory of what we got. My parents had their favorites so there was some wheeling and dealing with each of us to share with them, and we did. And if I got something I didn't like (which at this point in time is hard to imagine, but there was), I was left to trade with a sibling for something I had to have! trading worked, usually.

I cannot remember ever having a bad Halloween as a kid in a small town. Even our mischief nights were allowed, and encouraged, and done without malicious intent to hurt or harm anyone or their property. The good old days...

Happy Birthday to my Baby!

Daniel turns 24 today and I hope he is having a wonderful day (I am sure Kelly will make it special!). I miss having the kids here for their birthdays, but rest assured I never forget.

Love ya Dan!

Sweet Sixteen...and other Happy Birthdays!

My niece Jillian turns 16 today and she is very sweet. Being sweet is not her only wonderful quality, but then what would her Aunt say bad about her? Nothing.

There's something about turning sweet sixteen...it's like the start of something special. I remember my own sweet sixteen birthday fondly as my dad bought me this pretty corsage made up of tiny pink roses and sugar cubes. I loved it. It was simple, pretty, and something i will never forget. I hope that Jillian remembers this special birthday as fondly as I remember mine. She also gets her driver's permit...now that's big!

My niece Christine and my nephew Michael also celebrate October birthdays and my wish for them is to have a special day as well.

Daniel has an October birthday, but he will get his own blog.

Look Mom...NO Holes! (For now)

In a few short weeks, THE BEAST will return to New Jersey. We have missed his sweet face. Okay, I have missed his sweet face (Jim is rolling his eyes). The one thing we have not missed, and I am being honest here, is the HOLES he digs at a speed that is comparable to the speed of an SST roaring through the air, and his knack for re-designing the bushes in the backyard. Also done at a rapid, yet enjoyable pace.

Jim and I have enjoyed the last couple of months as we sat on the deck over looking our pristine lawn in the backyard. We marveled at the growth the bushes have taken; their branches soaring upwards towards the sun. We wonder now HOW long it will take before THE BEAST is back to his old tricks. OR will he?

Perhaps the HOT and humid weather he has been subject to in Grenada has charred that part of his brain. Perhaps he will not be interested in digging. He didn't in Grenada, although it was too hot to stand, let alone dig. Maybe he will have outgrown this puppy behavior? He has aged in the last couple of months. Maybe digging will seem childish to him. Maybe bush redesign won't seem like fun anymore. Who knows?

I just know that between now and then I am enjoying every square inch of our backyard. Who knows what evil lurks in the mind...and do not let the picture fool you...he's only thinking...

New Look...Same Old Words of Wisdom

While the site has been updated with a new design, be warned that the written words remain the same. "Can't change an old dog, but you can buy it a new collar", and you may quote me.

I felt after a couple of years it was time to redo the place, so I looked around the Internet, found a place that really does all the leg work, and after pushing a few buttons of the keyboard, TADA...we have a fresh look for my blog. I like the change personally. But then I am a person who likes a fresh change every now and then.

I haven't any real words of wisdom today. I am a happy camper because I just completed my first paper in the nursing class I am taking. The class is a necessary evil (Educational Theories in Learning), BUT dry, so writing this paper took every drop of energy I could muster up to write it. But is is done, and now I can focus on paper two, which is no more exciting than paper one.

Okay, I think I have something for you...

Wisdom is the sharing of wise experiences and knowledge, but a lot of it is common sense. The difference is how we apply this common sense - we all have the ability to keep going even when we face challenges in our lives - basically it comes down to your attitude. We can have a positive attitude towards life, or a negative attitude. We can focus on the good or we can focus on the bad. Keeping a positive mental attitude is one of the keys to success. The choice is always up to you!

And from Pooh Bear...on procrastination...

"If you are always saying, ‘We’ll see,’ nothing ever happens"

Thoughts of Turkey, Stuffing, and the Works!

Last year I made our holiday turkey using this recipe and after rave reviews, I am going to do it again this year. While I have used Martha's Turkey 101 recipe and loved it, this recipe has pushed right past hers, and now remains my favorite.
The recipe is lengthy so I have added the link right to the source; Saveur Magazine (one of my favorites). The recipe is titled, Crisp Apple-Scented Roast Turkey with Cider–Calvados Gravy and mere words can not describe how yummy this bird was, even for me! I will tell you that as I type out this blog, my mouth is watering just thinking about this coming Thanksgiving.
The dessert is always the typical pies, although my sister Sue gets them from Delicious Orchards, so they are not so typical, rather delicious. BUT a few years ago, Caitlin and my niece Jillian found a recipe for Pumpkin Pistachio Cannolis which are awesome! So this recipe I will share as well.

Pumpkin Pistachio Cannolis
Ingredients

1/2 of an 8-oz. carton mascarpone cheese
3/4 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup canned pumpkin
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1/2 cup chopped roasted pistachio nuts or toasted pecans
1/2 cup whipping cream
12 purchased cannoli shells*
Powdered sugar or granulated sugar

In a large bowl stir together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, pumpkin, ricotta, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup of the nuts. Set aside.
In a chilled mixing bowl beat cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Fold into pumpkin mixture. If desired, cover and chill up to 4 hours. To serve, spoon pumpkin mixture into a self-sealing plastic bag. Snip a 3/4" hole in one corner. Pipe filling into cannoli shells so pumpkin filling extends from ends. Sprinkle cannoli ends with remaining nuts. Arrange on a serving platter. Sprinkle with sugar.
If purchased cannoli shells are not available brush one side of 16 four inch flour tortillas (trim larger tortillas if necessary) with cooking oil. Roll, forming a tube shape, secure with a wooden toothpick. Gently place a rolled piece of foil in the center for support. Place on baking sheet, brush outside with oil and bake in a 375 degree oven about 15 minutes or until golden brown. Place on wire rack to cool. Remove foil and toothpicks. Fill with pumpkin mixture. Makes 16 shells (allows for breakage).

Enjoy!

Distractions

<~~~~ This is what happens when I am sitting at my laptop researching for school. I get distracted in Google and find myself in areas I should not be in (Not those sites). Actually this site was sent to me by Caitlin who does not distract easily, but does enjoy downtime on the Internet.

This site is YEAR BOOK YOURSELF found HERE and all you need is a head shot of yourself or a loved one. It's fun. It's distracting. It's me. Scary huh? But fun.

I wish someone would write my papers for me.

Packing up for Winter

You know through my posts that one of my favorite hangouts is my back deck. It has provided me with hours of quiet and calm in a pretty setting where I can enjoy the sounds and sights of nature, without going to far from home. Even despite its reputation for not being pretty in color.

Now that cooler weather has set in, my time out there has diminished and I have begun to pack away chairs, umbrellas (I do not hide from the warmth of the sun this time of year), and tables. There will be one table, and a set of chairs left behind to sit out and enjoy those scattered dog days of summer that somehow find us this time of year. I grab every opportunity to sit out there.

The planters have begun to disappear from the back that held summer flowers, and have been replaced by pots of mums, adding a wee bit of color to the back yard and deck and patio area. My hummingbird feeders have been emptied and washed and put away until spring. The bird houses remain for the occasional bird who might wish to hide from the winter drafts.

There's a certain sadness that comes with fall, and I feel it when I am out on my almost empty deck. But I will enjoy what time I have left out here, despite the drop in temps and the shorter days, and will continue to enjoy each moment of peace and solitude I found there. Even in the dead of winter, my deck and yard offer me a place to step out onto to enjoy the wonders of mother nature. And that is always good.

The Great Depression

It seems many of us can’t turn on our TV’s or radios these days without feeling a sense of loss or an overwhelming pang of doom when we listen to the stock market reports. Of course, the words recession and depression mean different things, but to many people one is just as bad as the other can be.

Having the literary mind I have, I tend to think first about my stocks, and then realizing I have very little power to change the situation, I begin to think about John Steinbeck and his novels written during the Great Depression. Grapes of Wrath set during the Great Depression, the novel focuses on a poor family of sharecroppers driven from their home by drought, economic hardship, and changes in the agriculture industry. In a nearly hopeless situation, they set out for California's Central Valley along with thousands of other "Okies” in search of land, jobs, and dignity.

Of Mice and Men it tells the tragic story of George Milton and Lennie Small, two displaced migrant ranch workers in Great Depression-era California. I fondly remember this book when I was a high school freshman. My English teacher Mr. Esberg did a great acting out the parts of both Lennie and George. He not only encouraged us to read more, but to enjoy what we read and to find the value in a great novel.

I’m not sure why I am sharing these thoughts except to say if hearing about the horrors of Wall Street are getting you down, you might pick up a Steinbeck novel, read it, and things might look better. Life may not be so bad afterall...

"Deck the Halls with Boughs of Holly..."

One of my weaknesses is the ability to wait until the appropriate time to listen to Christmas music. Or is there an appropriate time? Some say December 1st, some say the day after Thanksgiving, while others say, whenever you want to listen to it, go for it! Of course, there are the scrooges out there who say one day of that crap is enough! Bah Humbug.

So with that said, I confess I am one who begins to listen 1 October. Oh sure, I know the pumpkins are not even out, let alone out and put away, but I love Christmas music and I am not ashamed to share this with you. (my kids are eye rolling as they read this, and would like to be in the catergory of those who feel the day after Thanksgiving is quite soon enough). But they know me, and they know how much I love it, so they quietly roll their eyes and let me listen. (Thank God for iPods...theirs and mine).

There's something about it that provides me with a sense of peace. I grew up with a grandmother who loved it, so it has to be a genetic thing. I can remember being at her house singing along with her, and Mitch Miller and Bing Crosby. She had a love of music and her album collection of Christmas music was enough to provide me with a diverse collection of tunes. So when I listen to the holiday music I am taken back to that living room, and a time well spent with MomMom, whose love added to the holidays for all of us. I miss her.

Christmas has always been special to me, as it is to most, but when I listen to the music, I am taken back to times, especially during childhood, where all I had to do was be a kid. Maybe that's it. Maybe it allows me the opportunity to find a place without responsibilities, worries, and stress. Whatever the reason, my iPod is full of the holiday tunes I love and it is now in full swing giving me a sense of peace in these troubling times we all live in these days. It might be better than any anxiety med out there. Whatever. I'm decking the halls in my head, and I like it.

Madison Turns 3!

It would be in bad taste if I did not mention the fact that our Maddie turned three recently. The second youngest of four Goldens, she is the sweetest dog, who never tires in trying to please us.

She has been working in the local library as a service dog in which she listens to children read to her. They love her, and she seems to love them. Although she is not fond of chapter books, and prefers picture books, she never complains.

Happy Birthday Madison!

For Love...

This week, at the hospital where I work, a man entered his wife's room, pulled out a gun, and killed her. It was sad. It was a mercy killing. It was done out of love. It was their pact.

Married for 65 years, he could not watch her suffer after a recent fall, and subsequent stroke. She would not get better. It was described as the ultimate sacrifice by their son. "He was her Romeo, She his Juliet", the son added. He then shot himself, only to die hours later. Thankfully. I would not want to see a man who had to come to that decision go to jail for the ultimate sacrifice.

I have never had that serious dialogue with Jim. I am not sure I am ever remotely ready. God willing.

Brahm's Lullaby

We now have, installed in our nursing unit, a button on the wall at the nurse's station, that when pushed plays Brahm's Lullaby throughout our hospital. Each new dad or mom, or elected family member will now push that button each time a new baby enters the world. Of course, it comes at a time when finances are said to be low, and nurses are being sent home day after day to conserve dollars.

Here's my thoughts. One, salary dollars are not the same as the dollars used to purchase these types of items. I know this because I worked in hospital management. Two, one of the upper management people thought it a good marketing tool and a nice way to welcome new babies who come into the world at our facility, and I agree. Families are going to love it, as will others who are spending time at our hospital (patients and visitors). Oh sure there will be those who will be easily annoyed, but then if the sun doesn't rise or set in a good way, there are those who get easily pissed off. and finally, what better way to remind us all during what might be a crappy day that there are good things in life like a baby coming into the world!

If it could lift anyone's spirits, or comfort their soul, in that way it's very powerful medicine. And we are a hospital that is into healing both body and soul, so why not have something that will foster this. And how about the oncology nurse who has to deal with dying all day. How nice it will be for her to be reminded that there is more to life than just death. Or the patient who has sadness in their life. It might make them feel a little better knowing a new bundle of joy has entered the world.

I see only good in this button and hope eventually my peers will too. Right now they see dollars spent foolishly, and hear an obnoxious tune. I believe if they truly stop and listen closely, they might see and hear something that just might make a difference in someones day.

Lullaby and good night, with roses bedight
With lilies o'er spread is baby's wee bed
Lay thee down now and rest, may thy slumber be blessed
Lay thee down now and rest, may thy slumber be blessed
Lullaby and good night, thy mother's delight
Bright angels beside my darling abide
They will guard thee at rest, thou shalt wake on my breast
They will guard thee at rest, thou shalt wake on my breast

The Colors of Fall?

It's October 3rd, and I have bought the pumpkins, and will buy my mums this weekend to decorate my front porch for Fall / Halloween. The Fall flags are out and closer to Halloween I will put out my Halloween flags. BUT I still have gorgeous impatiens in the front of the house, so how Fallish will the house look?

Hence my dilemma. I do not want to yank out the flowers as they come back every year, and have migrated from a few plants three years ago, to an amazing amount, that almost extends over the entire front garden. BUT I feel that with them there, the pumpkins and mums will not take center stage. And with the weather we have had, and are still having, they are no where close to dying out.

So I will drag out the pumpkins, place a few mums and then add a few Halloween decorations and hope people see them and not the pretty flowers. I know it sounds silly, but I love the colors of Fall and want them to stand out. Even with bigger issues in our world, sometimes it's ok to stray towards the smaller problems. At least they are easier to deal with in my own warped way. So for now I will blend the seasons and hope that by December when it is time to hang the wreath on the front door, that the mums will have faded and I can enjoy the green pines, red ribbons, and sparkling ornaments that will adorn my front door. Life can be so complicated sometimes!

Magical Mushrooms

While mowing the lawn, I couldn't help but notice the vast variety of mushrooms that were rising up between the blades of grass all over the front lawn. I have never seen so many different kinds, and had to stop and take notice. I know it's common to have mushrooms pop up in spots, especially with the all the rain and humid temps we have had lately, but really, the amount of colors and shapes left me to wonder what was going on.

I had to Google mushrooms, and found many pages dedicated to the common American mushrooms found on common front lawns (yes those pages do exist). I was amazed at the number of species I have just on the front lawn, never mind the back lawn. I am always picking them just in case one of the dogs gets a yen for a snack. God forbid we have an emergency vet visit. Some are easily removed, while others test my picking abilities. They are the ones found low to the ground; ones I practically have to scrape off the lawn (not easy).

According to most mushroom sites, the best way to get rid of mushrooms for good is to get rid of the lawn. Well, that is not an option. In fact, most experts agree lawns are best when there are fungi spores hanging around. so they stay and I remain vigilant in picking. I love the mushrooms you can get at the supermarket to eat, no matter the price, and have never once thought about eating mushrooms I could get free in the yard. I know there are varieties that one could might eat and not get ill, or even die from, but I am not taking the chance. So I pick and discard. And because they return like magic, I do it again, and again, and again.

MUSHROOM: a structure, produced by a fungus, that is large enough to be visible to the naked eye and has as its primary function the production of sexual reproductive spores.

What's New in Grenada?

Just a post to let you all know that Caitlin is doing well in Grenada despite the oppressive heat and humidity. She has loved having Migo with her and if you have been reading her blog, you know he loves being with her. BUT that will come to a screeching halt this November as Migo is packing his little duffel bag and coming back home.

It seems that American Airlines might be banning service dogs from boarding and Caitlin is not into making Migo a cargo dog (too many horror stories, so I cannot blame her). I know she will miss him, but I suspect madison will be doing the fourstep when her best buddy comes through the door! She has missed him more than any simply because he loves to play hard like she does, and the two older dogs do not. Truth is...I have missed the demon seed too.

It will be nice to have that fresh face here again. And I suspect Caitlin won't be alone too long down there without a friend there to keep her happy. Dogs seem to migrate towards her...even the foreign variety.

Cookies Galore

I have written before about how I love baking cookies every year for holiday gift giving, parties, and plain old family parties. I look forward to all the holiday magazines, especially the yearly Christmas Cookies put out by Better Homes and Gardens. This year is no exception. I picked up my copy today at the food store, raced home, and with a fresh hot mug of coffee dove into the magazine! I am disappointed. And sad.

It seems I have seen most of what is printed in other issues or in Cookie Cookbooks. Of course, if I didn't own so many cookbooks and magazines devoted to cookies, I might find something new. See my Cookie Obsession. So I will go through my list of favorite recipes and this year that's what I will make, calling each gift "Wendy's Favorites". Thankfully I have made copies of my favorite recipes and put them in one spot, even the ones I have altered to call them my own.

I didn't make cookies last year as I was not in the mood. This year my inner elf is back and I now look forward to making cookies. I have even started stocking up on butter ( I love sales). I am hoping my niece Jillian will help, as she makes baking fun. And perhaps Joshua will help as well. Baking and kids. I love the holidays!

Cooking for the Holidays

It is never too early (For many it might be, but for me, it is not) to start to think about what I might be serving for the holiday meals. The fall magazines are starting to appear in the stores and my mailbox and with them loads of recipes and ideas for meals for Thanksgiving. At this point, I am not sure where we will celebrate the holidays, but I can start to think about side dishes or what stuff might taste good.

I love ogling over each magazine; wondering what might be fun to try, and what everyone might like to see on the table. I love both holidays, but I have to admit that cooking for Thanksgiving has always been more fun. My favorite part of the meal is the stuffing. I am not one of the package-stuffing girls, and love the idea of adding new things to enhance the flavor. Chestnuts and fruits added are my favorite. In addition, what is stuffing without sausage? The person who hosts gets the job of providing the bird. I am not a huge turkey fan, but what would Thanksgiving be without one? And what would the day after be without leftovers, which is always the bad part about not hosting the event. No leftovers! The best part in my opinion.

Growing up Christmas was always the Lasagna holiday and that has continued for the most part today. THAT's one dish I feel I excel at so I love having that task. Of course, this then means I host Christmas day here, which is ok with me. Christmas Eve is usually spent with family munching on hand held foods, appetizers or small sandwiches. It is really all about getting together, making the food secondary, but nonetheless important, so I also start thinking about what I might serve or bring to that holiday table. I like creative little snacks.

And of course, what are the holidays without cookies? I have a lot to think about...

Teachers Who Made a Difference

In today's obits, there was an announcement about a teacher who passed away at the high school that I attended. While I did have this specific person, my sister Gidget did, but it got me to thinking about those teachers I had that really made a difference in my life.

My freshman year I had an English teacher, Bill Esberg, who inspired me to write and to read all I could. While writing was a challenge initially for me, I persisted and eventually became to like it. Reading books in class with him was an event, and I came away with the understanding that a book, could take us places, and take us on adventures. He had a red bat, which he slammed it on the nearest desk to make a point and to wake up the sleeping student. How anyone could doze off in this class stymied me. Sophomore year I had Lou Gorra, who again inspired us to read and write, but he added the cinema and encouraged me to look for deeper meanings in movies. I remember Brain's Song and not being able to watch this movie without a full box of tissues. Junior year I was awestruck with my teacher Richard Johnstone. He had a flare for the dramatics and it was usual to have a prop in the room for each book we tackled or each film we might have reviewed. He captivated us all. Senior year I had Yair Lamdanski who had an incredible sense of humor. He again continued to motivate me to write and write well.

My history teachers were memorable as well. Jean Bello was a real fruit loop, but what she gave me was motivation to think "outside the box" and that was important and still is today. Anna Lieberman inspired us to think how the world outside ours influenced us and that no day could really begin until after one read the NY Times. While I only read the Times on occasion, I am one who values the importance of world events and how they shape my own world. Russel Leidy was also a nut case, but he also encouraged me to think about that world that existed outside my own comfort zone. Life "on the other side of the tracks" was scary, but one in which we could not hide from.

Four years of Spanish were taught to me by a handful of teachers but the one who left the biggest mark was Rachel Vecchione who made us laugh and showed us that all corners of the globe were reachable if we only grabbed for them.

Science was a valuable part of where I would land today and each teacher left a stamp on my heart. Lewis Givler taught me that playing in the dirt could be fun, but one should know exactly what it was that one was playing in. Joseph Manno tugged at my heartstrings (literally). I still have a crush on him. He taught me the value of research, which would become an important part of nursing. William Hill and Bruce Cameron also enriched my life by inspiring me to love science. I thank them all for showing me the way.

Math was math but the two teachers who made a difference were Leonard Stout and John DeTalvo. They both taught me NOT to be afraid of numbers, x's, y's, and shapes.

High school teachers should make some sort of difference in a kids life and I am truly thankful that I was so inspired by some of them and those who did so will continue to live on in my heart.

What's so Funny About a Moose?

As a person who like to bake and cook new things, I am always on the lookout for new recipes. I subscribe to some of the best magazines like Gourmet, Bon Appetite, Cooking Light, and those magazines that might not be totally about cooking, but may have an abundance of recipes (like Paula Deen’s magazine). So imagine my delight at a whole article in a recent edition of the New York Times dedicated to preparing moose! Yes, moose.

You know had to be coming since the inception of Sarah Palin, the Governor of Alaska, as a potential VP. There have been many moose jokes, moose punch lines, and even political concerns over plain old moose meat, which apparently when cooked certain ways, may not be so plain after all. Moose meat is found in most Alaskan refrigerators and is thought of as a staple, as hamburger meat is in other areas of our country. And most Alaskans are used to their favorite meat being the butt of jokes.

The interesting thing I found as read about moose meat is that if a moose is killed on the road, and found in time, which most are, the meat is NOT wasted, but quickly given to food shelters, local churches, and other organizations which feed the hungry. NOW that is nothing to joke about. I think of all the deer meat laying wasted on the side of the roads here in NJ that might offer something to those poor we feed through local organizations here. Maybe I need to write a letter to my local officials.

I might be alone, but I find nothing funny about moose meat. I am quite sure I cannot find it in my local stores, and I have yet to see any in the local woods, so my chances of eating it is not going to happen unless I take a trip to Alaska, which is not really out of the question. So until I do, I will read through the recipes, smack my lips, and wonder if I could substitute beef for moose. Besides, how cute is he?

The Number One and One Half Kelly

I miss my Daniel and his Number One girl Kelly. They are both attending Johnson and Wales in Rhode Island (as I have mentioned before) and are both settled in and doing well. My culinary Gurus.

I like knowing that they are taking care of each other up there, away from their families. I adore Kelly and think of her as one of my own. (Maybe one day she will be) =)

I joke with her all the time and say that I am Daniel's Number one, and she has graciously offered to be his Number One and One Half. THAT's what makes her all the more special. Daniel could not have picked a more lovely girl. He and I are both lucky. I cannot wait until October when I see them both. thank you Kelly for being you.

Decorating for Fall

It's that time again, when I pack away the summer flowers (inside) and pull out my Fall arrangements. I love fall, and knowing it is just around the corner makes me even happier. I normally grumble at the short length of summer, but this year, I am more than ready for the fall season.

My decorations are few in number, but just enough to add the colors that we all love; the reds, oranges, yellows, and browns. Normally I wait to add the pumpkins, but not this year. So my complete fall / Halloween decorations are scattered about the house. Tastefully, and yet not over done. The flags have been changed on the house and mailbox. The only item left to add is the candy bowl that will house Halloween candy. It's out in the stores, but way too tempting to bring home, just yet.

My empty house is ready for the season of Fall. I am so looking forward to Thanksgiving when the kids will be home and my house not so quiet again. Then it will be time to decorate for the Holidays!

Family Reunions

It is that time of year again...the second Sunday in September, my extended family gets together for our big family reunion. Sadly, the numbers have dwindled, and continue to do so each year, whether it be from death or "We are just to busy to attend".

I like reunions and the ability to catch up with the family. We have met at various locations throughout the years, but in the last several years have met at my brother's farm. This allows us much space to be together, but yet not so close that we wished for more space. IF ya know what I mean.

Each year one of the family steps up to the plate to be the family president for the meeting. Yes, we even have a family meeting complete with old business, new business, and a treasury report! We are a well-organized and well-oiled machine! This year my brother Butch is the BIG Kahuna! So he'll run the meeting and direct the day. There's always games and tons of food! I just like the catching up part.

Cruising Again...

Jim and I just got back from a 6 day cruise down to Bermuda and we are now back home, and fully relaxed. (Of course, I expect that will soon change, but for now, I feel great!). The cruise came at a great time. Daniel was off to school, the house finally quiet (maybe too quiet), my class was winding down, and work was becoming a busy place for me with all the additional tasks I keep saying "yes" to doing.

So off we went. We sailed with Royal Caribbean (again) and went straight to Bermuda, where were docked for two full days. This has to be one of the prettiest islands i have been to, and I can truly say I have been to quite a few over the past several years. The people, the environment, the shopping, and the beaches, all superb!

Our first day was spent walking up and down hills in the Hamilton area. From here we bused over to HorseShoe Beach and walked the pink sands and waded through the gorgeous blue surf. We then headed back to the ship and had dinner. Later that evening we headed to the Frog and Onion Pub, an English Pub and had a glass of ale which was yummy. The evening was relaxing and perfect!

The next day we headed back to the beach and spent the am sunning and swimming! Again, perfect. We headed back to the dock area and had lunch at the Bonefish Grill, which has places here in NJ! Awesome lunch! Then it was back to the ship for an afternoon of relaxing in the sun. Jim and I spent hours reading and just vegging out at the pool of in the room watching old reruns of Law and Order. (Who does that on vacation? Us. And it was just what we needed to relax)

Day Four was spent chilling on deck relaxing some more, reading some more, and simply watching the blue water run by.

It was the most perfect vacation.

Not a Creature was Stirring...

Not even a dog.

Finally at last. A quiet and well ordered house. My son left yesterday for college, and now I find myself with the cleanest and quietest house. He was not even out of the driveway and I dove into his bedroom head first. The windows have been cleaned, with fresh new curtains up on the windows. Anything that added to clutter was placed in a box and then into the closet. I then scraped off the dust and then polished the furniture. Got down on my hands and knees and got ALL the stuff that found its way into corners and under furniture (Don't ask). The sheets have been changed and a pretty spread placed on top. Ahhhh, the freshest of smells. The quietest of quiet.

Who knew I would miss him this much?

Madison is barking and she could use a good brushing. There's always something to be done and some dirty kid to deal with it. It really never ends. But thats the way I like it. For now.

Whirl Wind of a Trip: Providence RI

Jim, Dan, and I headed up to see his new campus yesterday at Johnson & Wales (J&W) (Providence, RI),and I L O V E it! The campus is a campus ( pretty and spacious), but the city of Providence is awesome (again stealing my niece’s favorite word). We stayed downtown near the downtown campus of Johnson and Wales, and were able to see that part of the campus as well. We learned that J&W owns just about all of Providence. Sio what might Dan’s tuition be paying for?

As you may know Providence is the capitol of Rhode Island and from our hotel room, we got a great view of the capitol building. The downtown area has its charming antiquated areas, cobblestones streets, and modern upscale buildings and areas. The shopping malls are several floors up, and several in number. I could go crazy here with a plastic card. The parks, the ones we stumbled upon, are again spacious, and the kind of place you could imagine yourself hanging out in on a Sunday afternoon.

We ate a place called Fire and Ice, and kind of bar with assorted iced drinks, and food that you pick out, bowl up, and hand off to the cook to grill for you! You can fill up the bowl as many times as you like, and the assortment of food abounded. We had a great meal. BUT, it is not the only place in town. In fact, there was an overabundance of places that would have had me checking them out if I only had more time, money, and room in the belly! BUT, I will be back (that’s a stolen quote from Arnold this time).

I’m happy that I got to check out Providence with Danny before he settles in at school. I will sleep better (yeah right) knowing he is in a safe area and in a good place. I hope he takes advantage of his new home, and explores every inch of Providence and beyond. It might be a once in a lifetime experience.