Fast Post

Okay, short post before I go vote on my lunch hour....

I had a wonderful dinner last night with Munchkin. I fixed chicken in the crock pot. It was so easy! I took two large thighs (bone-in) and took the skin off. I placed them in the bottom of the 2 quart crock pot and poured about 1/8 of a cup of Ken's Steakhouse Lite Northern Italian with Basil and Romano on top. Then I placed two medium potatoes that I had peeled and chopped on top of the chicken. I poured an other 1/8 cup of the salad dressing on top of that and put the lid on. I cooked it on low from 5:30 AM until 3:30PM. Bumped it up to High for an hour and then turned it off. OMG - It was fab! Just enough for the two of us plus a salad.

While she was here, we checked out her Halloween costume! I love it and hopefully she will send me pictures! She also shared her Amy Brown fairy book with me for more inspiration. She also brought her Western Digital passport over and gave me more pictures than I know what to do with. I have updated my flickr stream, so you will see some of them.



Okay, I had to share this one here as well. This was taken late into the evening of Munchkin's Graduation Party. Yes, it is at "the" house. This gal is MJ and she is one of Munchkin's dearest friends. She is a huge fan of Munchkin's mom. Can you tell? She would so like to sweep me off my feet and claim me all for herself. Thank goodness I have the Ms. Robinson clause in place! Youth, they are always good for you ego!

More later my friends!

Thoughts for Thursday

Okay, I am not trying to set any records today, really, I'm not. It's just that I stumbled upon these articles today and they have been stuck in my thought patterns for too long not to comment.

The first article, 5 Times You're Sexy to Men, has me chuckling a bit. Reasons one and two hold true in my particular dating world as well. Eye contact is essential, so it stands to reason it should be her number one. Body language....I'm not even going to comment further, except, DUH! Number three has always been my weapon! I have always considered myself a Botticelli babe, and I also prefer the same. No offense to Twiggy, but I love curves! I will totally leave number four alone because I no longer have the parts to compete and doubt that I would want to. Besides, sleeping in a shirt at night gives me night sweats just thinking about it. Number five is, no, should be a natural. I will caution even the happiest of women in a relationship to take care of yourself. It will keep you attractive longer if you think of yourself as desirable as well.

The second article, New Knit Shapes, is just wrong on so many levels as a knitter, IMHO. First, I could never justify the expense of a lot of the items they showcase. I will freely admit that the fingerless gloves were wonderful to see represented, but again they want $28.00 for them....And this, A terrifically shaggy sweater is the perfect contrast to a snug turtleneck and leggings just scares the life out of me. It is wrong on oh so many levels....And don't even get me started on knitted skirts. I love some of them, and I know that I will never hear the end of this, but most women should just not consider the commercially made ones. Check out the article and tell me what you think.

Okay, I'm not sure if my brain is finished for the day, so don't hold your breath. I also made chicken in my crock pot and I will post the results of the creation later....

Someone Loves My Blog!

I am so far behind on reading my favorite blogs that I missed the award bestowed upon (not-so) Cynical Knitting Gal and then passed on to me....


Here are the rules:

1. Please put the award on your blog.

2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.

3. You must nominate at least 4 fellow bloggers for this award.

4. Add links to the recipients.

5. Leave a comment so the recipients know they have received an award.

I’ve read the rules, and I promise to comply, so here it is - my shiny new ribbon!


As for my nominees:

1. Tandledupinknots- Who I met through one of the first swaps I ever participated in. She made me the most wonderful pair of socks and I love following the trials and tribulations of she and her husband as they raise "Bear".

2. MissMe1964 - We share the same birthday, so what could be better? I enjoy her wit and humor. Her friendship has meant so much to me these last few months. And I can't wait until I am forced to go to Canada for business so I can meet her in "real life".

3. The Yarn Closet - Who recently got married. She has such a big heart and has the most interesting hobbies. She is now on a pursuit of Civil War re-enactment...costumes and all....

4. Knittymuggins - Simply, I just love her zest for life and love. She followd her husband around while he runs marathons....and she makes beautiful things too!

I want to nominate more than four, but I will behave! I would add knittingnest, knittingdoctor, knittingreader, and TwistedKnitter to name a few.

And since I cannot re-nominate (Not-so) Cynical Knitting Gal, I will say that she has been the best friend I could have had so far through the last five months, but she has been my friend for much longer than that. Thank you for all of your love and support!

37 Things Meme

My good friend, (not-so) Cynical Knitting Gal had this posted on her blog and I thought it looked like fun...

37 Things about me

1. Do you like blue cheese? Yes, on hamburgers.

2. Have you ever smoked cigarettes? Took one drag once and almost threw up. Never did it again and never wanted to. AND, will not be with anyone who does smoke!

3. Do you own a gun? Does a hot glue gun or staple gun count? If not, no.

4. What flavor Kool Aid was your favorite? Cherry.

5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Doctors no, but the Dentist....YES!

6. What do you think of hotdogs? Love them but they give me migraines...so I haven't had one in over ten years.

7. Favorite Christmas movie? Christmas in Connecticut. I love Barbara Stanwick.....

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? M u s t have coffee first thing when I get up. I have a cup and a half and then later in the morning I open an 8 ounce Dr. Pepper.

9. Can you do push ups? At the moment, I can do five....still working up to ten!

10. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? This is a sad response, but true. My favorite piece of jewelry is the ring that I designed for the tenth anniversary that the ex and I shared. It is a gorgeous ring but I don't wear it anymore. Perhaps I can make it into a pendant....after that, it is a necklace made of horse shoe nails from my grandparents farm. Odd but it still gets a lot of compliments.

11. Favorite hobby? Knitting.

12. Do you have A.D.D.? No.

13. Do you wear glasses/contacts? Yes, I have had them since I was in the fifth grade and now I have graduated to trifocals....gotta love the aging process!

14. Middle name? Carol

15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment?
a - Sleepy
b - Need to schedule a hair cut and color.....before the grey takes over the world
c- Need to go cast an early vote at lunch

16. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink? Dr Pepper, Water, Tea

17. Current worry? If I'll be able to get to sleep tonight before the loud neighbors get up at the butt crack of dawn....

18. Current hate right now? The fact that the apartment complex does not have any recycling programs in place!

19. Favorite place to be? Okay, call me a sap. My favorite place is curled up against that special someone. Currently, that would be occupied by Sassy and Eraser, as there is no one that I am that intimate with yet...

20. How did you bring in the New Year? Was with the ex and the Special Couple at a party with dancing.

21. Where would you like to go? Random places, Boston (heard the seafood is to die for), Las Vegas, and to see the Redwoods and Sequoias.

22. Name three people who will complete this. Who knows

23. Do you own slippers? Yes, I have two pair, but I hate wearing them. They make my feet too hot.

24. What shirt are you wearing? Boring actually, I am wearing a white blouse with a light vest over it....

25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Yes, for special occasions, but deep down I am a high thread count kinda gal.

26. Can you whistle? No..., sadly

Favorite color? At the moment, I am hopelessly hooked on lipstick red colors. I love the ones with blue in them. I am also hooked on berry colors....go figure

28. Would you be a pirate? No, I need a hot shower daily to feel human and I don't think that is an option on a pirate ship....

29. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't usually sing in the shower....still trying to wake up....

30. Favorite Girl’s Name? Okay, Munchkin will kill me but I love Victoria.

31. Favorite boy’s name? Totally random, But I have always liked Daniel, Brett, Jeff, and Mark.

32. What’s in your pocket right now? Cherry Chapstick

33. Last thing that made you laugh? Sassy trying to figure out how to open the front door and punking it when it didn't cooperate

34. What vehicle do you drive? KIA Rio5

35. Worst injury you’ve ever had? When I broke my wrist playing softball. It took six months of casts and who remembers how much PT

36. Do you love where you live? Yes, Houston has so much to do and I can wear shorts on Christmas sometimes, even though I usually don't

37. How many TVs do you have in your house? just one.....


Have fun! If you post, let me know so I can some see :)

Is it really almost the end of this month?

Wow, this month has flown by! I guess time flies when you are busy and spreading your wings now and then.

Okay, my Rays lost tonight. I am still so very proud of them. Congrats to the Phillies....The City of Brotherly Love should be happy once again that they have finally won a major championship!

Last night since there was nothing really on TV that caught my fancy, I watched Wild Hogs. OMG, I have never laughed so much. It was so very funny, especially after attending the Rally with my special friend. The entire cast was a scream. I especially loved it when Peter Fonda appeared.

I spoke at length with Trouble today. George and Gracie have adapted quite well to their new home and both adore Jack. Gracie has found the toilet paper stash and has helped Trouble paper the house twice. I warned her. Their latest discovery? The fish tank. Oh boy, one of them is going to get a bath....any takers on that bet? She has been painting up a storm and I can't wait to see her progress.

Get a rare visit with Munchkin tomorrow. She is bringing her CPU for a tune up by Mom and her Halloween costume so that we can discuss hair, make up and shoes. I will be making dinner and it is always better to eat with someone than it is dining alone.

Okay, off to bed so that I don't get any further behind on sleep!

Tuesday Temptations

Well, we have made it to yet another Tuesday. I am rested, albeit, not fully but I will get caught up. Especially since the World Series is not scheduled to resume until Wednesday....

What has been tempting me as of late? Sweaters that I am seeing in various catalogs. I have already posted about some that I just have to consider buying because I could not make them fast enough to wear this season. But, I so think I can make a version of this. I love the length and the structure. I also love this one as well. I think that it looks SUPER easy and could be a lot of fun to make. I like this as well, but I would make some changes to the pattern/design of the sleeve.

Of course, I would love to be able to make these out of stash yarn and not the blends that they have suggested. Not that there is anything wrong with blends. I would just utilize some that are more appropriate for the climate we have here.

I also came across these. Now, I am not normally a cargo pants kind of gal, but these look so comfy and strangely feminine in a way. I'm not sure I would ever own them, but they are tempting. I also like this in the blackberry color. I'm not sure what exactly is appealing about it, but I keep looking at it and imagining what it will go with, so I must have some mental connection with it.

There a lot of sweater and blouses that I love to wear cami tops underneath. I love these because the underwire is comfortable and they look great. I like these as well, and usually wear my bra with them. Because I feel better "supported" that way. The colors are great too!

I also came across this and this when I was researching a gift idea for Munchkin. I can so see either of them as a new tattoo. yes, I have the bug again and Trouble is designing one for me...but sometimes....you need more than one new one....Thank goodness swimming weather is almost gone and I won't worry about getting them if decide to....

Monday....

Okay, I am one tired woman! I have been working like crazy to have the apartment complex management help me with a few issues. They are working with me but not as fast as I need them too....why you ask?

Since Ike, I have not gotten much sleep with the newest neighbors. The one directly above me insists on waking to techno music at 1:30 AM, cooking breakfast loudly, showering loudly, running the vacuum daily at 2:45 AM, and slamming his door when he leaves for work at 3:15 AM.

Now if this was not enough, the neighbor directly next to my bed room wakes up at 4:00 AM with heavy metal death music. She sings along and her Airedale Terrier puppy "sings" with her. OY! She leaves at 5:00 AM.

The other issue is the the fact that EVERY time it rains, my patio floods and it is IMPOSSIBLE to get to the front door without getting soaked. You should see me when I get home. I have to roll up my pants and take off my socks and shoes before I can even attempt to get within three feet of my gate.

The solution, changing apartments. I cannot tell you more for reasons that my loyal followers are all aware of. I am happy with the choice. I am on the end of the unit chosen and should not have noise issues, as I know all of the neighbors that will be around me. They are all hard working people that keep the same hours I do and respect their peace and quiet as well. I hope to have this accomplished by the 15th of November. Keep your fingers crossed!

Okay, the other reason I am tired, I have been watching the World Series. Man this is an emotional roller coaster! Tonight's game is officially suspended due to the weather and it is all tied at 2 each. I will be on pins and needles until they resume.

I made myself a treat tonight. I bought some Cocoa Chocolate Chip Scones mix from Sticky Fingers Bakeries. They are divine! I had also picked up a Stovetop Espresso Coffee Maker from Wal-Mart for under $10.00. It looks a lot like this one, as I cannot seem to find the exact one on-line tonight. I will admit that I now need a milk frother for a better cup, but the first time, it was fast and delicious! The scones will be enjoyed in the evenings with a cup of hot tea. I froze half of them so that they do not get stale.

As for knitting, I am almost done with one of the Pay-It-Forward gifts. I cannot show proof of the actual knitting until the gift is mailed and received but I will take pictures for certain. I am also about to cast on for the first baby item for Trouble. I am going to make Saartje"s Bootees with some Cashcotton that I have left over from some knitting gifts from last Christmas.

Okay off to bed now, or I will never get caught up on my sleep....

Friday Fill-In

Friday Fill-In

1. Right now, I’m feeling glad that it is finally Friday and we actually have cool weather.
2. Anywhere with my special friend enjoying each others company is where I want to be.
3. How does one convince someone that change can sometimes be a good thing?
4. My Franklin Covey Planner with the built-in to do list keeps me on track.
5. Please don’t talk on your cell phone while you are driving, unless you utilize a blue-tooth!
6. My daughters, family, bloggy friends, and my special friend fill me with joy.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to knitting more and watching more 007 Movies On Demand, tomorrow my plans include watching the University of Texas versus Oklahoma, then the Rays versus the Phillies, maybe an outdoor festival in the evening for a few hours AND knitting of course, and Sunday, I want to finish another novel and get it off to the proof-reader and finish up some knitting projects that need to be woven/seamed/blocked so that I can start some new ones, especially something for Trouble's baby girl!

Okay gang! Have a wonderful Friday. Cheer for your favorite College Team(s) {Michigan State, Ohio State, University of Tennessee, University of Texas, Texas Tech, Louisiana State University, etc}. Don't forget, RAYS ALL THE WAY!

Thoughts for Thursday

First, All The Way Rays! The series is now tied at 1-1 with a 4 to 2 win tonight!

Second, I dropped off the yarn today for TheresaKnits to pick up. I will have to make another trip to Nancy's Knits to linger and pet. It was amazing and Nancy was very nice. She had many yarns that make wonderful baby items...one was a yarn called Oh My, at least I think that was the name....I need double check that.

Finally, I had a wonderful day today, even though I was exhausted after a late night out with Trouble and Munchkin. Trouble checked in today and was so pleased that my special friend was able to join us. She also insisted that we get together again, just Munchkin, Trouble, My Special Friend and I so that the four of us can get better acquainted. There were just too many people for that last night. I am waiting on some files (pictures) from Munchkin so that I can load them on Flickr so that I can share more of the events. I also will be able to share the presents that Munchkin gave Trouble. They are wonderful and I want to be able to share them with my bloggy friends too.

One last thought....Trouble wants some socks made for herself that are fuzzy...I think that she is referring to chenille, but I am not certain. So, what yarns would you consider fluffy/fuzzy for socks? Please share your thoughts so that I can check the stash or get what is needed to make her some for Christmas...many thanks in advance for sharing this with me...

Happy Birthday Trouble and a few other odds and ends...

First, tonight was the first game of the World Series. The Rays lost 3 to 2. Yuk. But Carl Crawford did get a home run! They play again tomorrow, and hopefully they can tie the series up.

Second, Eraser is still on her anger kick. When I got home from work yesterday, she had left me a few reminders of said anger. The vet said that I needed to keep her in her cage when I am not home so that she will get the idea that I am angry with her and that the cage is her consequence. So, today we started the cage. I came home for lunch and she was hoarse from whining all morning. She ate, drank, and used the litter box. She also gave me serious cat love. She was herded back into the cage. When I came home we repeated the drill. She did get to stay out until I had to leave for dinner with Trouble. Harder to herd this time but I think she is getting the picture. She will still have to be herded into the cage tomorrow, as the vet said it would take two or three days before she got the picture. The joys of parenthood.

Third, I was going through my stash recently and I removed all of the acrylics and other sport yarns that I purchased more than ten years ago. I am donating them to a wonderful cause:

There is going to be a knit-in at Lone Star College Montgomery on October 25. They are asking for donations of yarn and needles for residents of the Family Time Woman’s Shelter, The Door. For more info, go to http://montgomery.lonestar.edu/148804/.

So, I am dropping of a 13 gallon trash bag full of yarn at Nancy's Knits tomorrow so that TheresaKnits can pick it up on her way up there Saturday. Nancy also has some yarns to donate, so it will be a double pick up. It feels good to know that I can help with such a worthwhile cause. It also helps me get the stash organized because I think that 2009 will be a major Knit From The Stash year for me. At least that is the plan.

Finally, today we celebrated Trouble's 25th birthday. There are two pictures added to the slide show on the blog. She looked more radiant than she did on Saturday. I had a bonus. Munchkin joined us as did a large contingent of Trouble's friends from college. Most of whom I know as if they were my own kids. I also had a very special friend join us that was happy to come and meet both of the girls for the first time. In all, there were 12 of us for dinner. The rain slowed everyone arrival but did not dampen our spirits. We had a wonderful time and I am looking forward to more "adult" birthdays with both of them in the future.

Okay...off to bed or I will never get myself up and off to work....

Tuesday Temptations

That's right gang! It is Tuesday once again. But before I get to the temptations, I have a tiny rant. Eraser has decided to punish me for getting rid of the kittens. While I was in the shower this morning she used my bed as the litter box. For those of you with cats, you know that smell before you even locate it. I stripped the bed and placed everything in the tub with laundry detergent and warm water. I decided to come home at lunch, and she had repeated the exercise, so she promptly went into her cage for time out so that she gets consequences for bad behavior. Ah, the joys of parenthood.....

Now, while I am eating my lunch and listening to Eraser whine....I present my temptations....

It has been suggested that I look much more attractive when I wear shirts and blouses that button up the front and are a little fitted. I haven't decided if it is more attractive because of the button factor, or just because it flatters my thinned out torso (thank you Yoga For Weight Loss CD).

As such, I have been on the prowl for more of them to add to my wardrobe. I found this, this, this, this, and this all at the Travel Smith website. I also went trolling at Lands' End and found this, this, this, this, this, this, and this. Why the sweaters? Because I could not make them that fast to wear and they can be monogrammed.....And also I think that jeans with a button up shirt looks so much better with a great cardigan over it instead of of a blazer. Only exception, would be a leather blazer.....Of course, I had to peek at Coldwater Creek as well. I like all of these except the Origami one. Having mentioned leather jackets, I think this one is terribly romantic. And while I was trolling, I also found this, this, this, and this.

I'm fairly certain that I tagged this one before, but now it also comes in a holiday version.

Okay gang, I need to let Eraser out of her cage and haul it back to the office.....more later....

Manic Monday

I actually love that song by the Bangles.

Any who...., today was a weird day. After a wonderful Saturday with Trouble and Jack, I let her take George and Gracie with her. Sweetpea needed a kitten and he loved Gracie. I could not split them apart, and so both were gently packed up sent to their new home. Now, before you fret on my behalf; don't even think about it.

Trouble is a regular Dr. Dolittle and, as such, George and Gracie are in excellent hands. I had already agreed that she could have them both when she was ready. She and Jack have been working hard to get the place ready for the new family member. She had originally wanted them closer to January, but this weekend just seemed like the right time for all of us.

Sunday, Eraser was a bit lost. She checked the apartment hourly for them. She called out to them in gentle meows and when they did not appear, she came to me for love. Needless to say, I did not get alot of knitting accomplished, but I did enjoy the new bonding with Eraser. This morning was a bit better. When I got home, I made the mistake of not giving Eraser immediate attention, so she expressed her anger by promptly pooping on the kitchen floor. UUGGHH....I cleaned it all up and then lavished her with attention until she nipped at me to let me know enough was enough.

Sassy has not been affected one way of the other. She was not as attached to the kittens as Eraser and does not seem to have any adverse adjustment issues. Truth be told, she is actually probably happy that Gracie is gone because she can have my lap and my attention again.

Trouble has checked in and all is well at her end as well. Gracie has attached herself to Trouble's lap and is quite content with the new home. George has attached himself to Trouble's feet and is underfoot all the time. However, when Jack gets home and sits down, he promptly places himself behind Jack on the back of the chair like a parrot. I was also advised that George fancies himself as a painter and has been trying to show Trouble how it is done.....I can't wait to see pictures.

I also get the bonus of being able to see them when I go to their house. They can also visit me when Trouble and Jack make trips into the "Big City" for visits. I was not meant to have four feline babies at this point in my life. I was; however, meant to be in George and Gracie's lives. It will be the best of both worlds. Sweetpea has a set of kittens to love. Trouble and Jack have babies to help entertain them and I have all of them in my life as well.

So, I am resuming my life as a parent of two felines and two humans. I am going tomorrow to get the rest of the items for Trouble's birthday on Wednesday. She will be 25 at precisely 5:01 PM CST. Life is great!

ALL THE WAY TAMPA BAY!!!!!!!!

Sorry to all my Red Sox followers....but from worst to first this year! The first game of the World Series is Wednesday and you can bet that I will be horse from cheering. Hopefully wherever we take Trouble for her birthday dinner that night, they will have a TV so that I can keep up.

All the way Tamp Bay! 9 = 8 and now 9 = 2!

2008 MLB Playoff Central

WORLD SERIES

vs.

Series tied 0-0

Game 1: at Rays, Wed., Oct. 22, 8 p.m. ET,

Game 2: at Rays, Thurs., Oct. 23, 8 p.m. ET,

Game 3: at Phillies, Sat., Oct. 25, 8 p.m. ET,

Game 4: at Phillies, Sun., Oct. 26, 8 p.m. ET,

Game 5: at Phillies (if nec.), Mon., Oct. 27, 8 p.m. ET,

Game 6: at Rays (if nec.), Wed., Oct. 29, 8 p.m. ET,

Game 7: at Rays (if nec.), Thurs., Oct. 30, 8 p.m. ET,

BTW - I forgot to wish both of my brothers Happy Birthday this month! I also have to wish my great-grandmother Emma (God rest her soul) a Happy Birthday this coming Wednesday as well. She was born exactly 100 years before Trouble and was an amazing woman in her time. I am blessed for having known her and I hope that she walks with a hand on Trouble's shoulder as she grows.

Friday Fill-In on Sunday!

Okay, I am trying to get caught up....so bear with me.

Friday Fill-In

1. Follow the path less chosen.
2. A knitting project and good music are things I always take with me on vacation.
3. To achieve your goals, you must be prepared to face adversity and remain focused.
4. I love eating breakfast food for dinner is something I’d like you to know about me.
5. I have a dry sense of humor that some people never understand, unless I say incoming first.....
6. I love the movie Hope floats.
7. And as for the weekend, Friday I attended a Greg Trooper concert, Saturday was the museum and celebrating Jack's 30th birthday, and Sunday, I want to watch football and finish one my Pay-It-Forward gifts so I can mail it off.

We now break radio silence.....?

Yes, It has been a week since my last entry. Whoa...flash back to Catholic Confessional....

Sorry. There are a few reasons that I was MIA. I developed a nasty sinus infection and finally had to break down and get professional, medically administered drugs. Monday and Tuesday were basically duds. I just wanted to cut my head off and carry it around on a pole.

I did manage to watch the baseball playoffs. Man, what is happening to the Rays? They need to get it together Sunday! I will be rooting for the Phillies if they end up playing the Sox.....I have lit every candle I can and chanted/prayed in every language I know. I think I even made some up for luck.

I also watched some funny movies this week. I saw, "Anchorman", "The Ruins", " Hot Fuzz", "Wild Hogs". For some reason, I also watched "A Fish Called Wanda" and "Four Weddings, and a Funeral", this week. I had to watch "Anchorman" twice because it was so funny. "The Ruins" was a horror flick and I have to admit that I didn't actually finish it because it is not my genre. I am also queuing up the James Bond flicks on Comcast's On Demand....yummy, as much Sean Connery as I can stand....at my pace too!

Okay, I also went to see Greg Trooper Friday. As good as I am with words, I have very few to accurately describe how amazing this show actually was. Hands down, he is one of the best songwriters/singers I have ever had the privilege to see in person. His song, "This I'd Do", is one of the most touching songs I have ever heard. Any person in my life that could say that those lines and sincerely mean them would win my heart hands down. I think that this says it best:

GREG TROOPER
"Greg Trooper writes great songs, including one of my very favorite songs in the world, Little Sister. On top of all that, there's his voice - an instrument I have coveted for 15 years." - Steve Earle

“Greg Trooper has got to be on our list of our finest contemporary songwriters.” - Billy Bragg

“Greg Trooper is a songwriter and performer who deserves about 12 times the attention he’s received. He knows how to play rock against country and folk and position the pressures of adulthood against the longing for adolescent freedom.” - Dave Marsh USA Today

Greg Trooper, "Make It Through This World" A songwriter who would describe showing love to a hard-hearted girl as being "futile as a prayer" might not be a religious man, but Trooper's songs have the ring of gospel truth. Sure, the organ and the piano testify to each other on Dream Away the Blues, and the slide guitar sways and shouts like a Pentecostal preacher, but mostly it's in the care the singer/songwriter shows for even his least desirable characters, and in the way they all strive for meaning in their loves and lives. — Brian Mansfield

The company I kept at the concert was stellar as well. I am enjoying the freedom of friends that enjoy good music and the company of friends even without imbibing. We had so much fun. The set started at 7:30 PM and they played for about an hour and a half and took a fifteen minute break. They came back and played until after 10:30 PM CST. We gave them such an encore that they came back for three more songs. We didn't leave until 11:00 PM CST. Totally worth the nominal price of the ticket.

I finally downloaded a batch of pictures from the camera as well. I will be updating Ravelry later Sunday. The streaming video should show some of what I have been up to.

Today, I met Trouble, Jack, and Sweetpea at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. We went to see Dinosaur Mummy CSI: Cretaceous Science Investigation. It was a special treat for me. Before I divorced their dad, I used to take Trouble and Munchkin to the HMNS on a regular basis. Trouble was totally enthralled by the grand Dinos and I loved it. It was a special treat to see Sweetpea so smitten. He is sort-of my grandson, and I had a great time listening to what he knew about the things we saw. Jack and Trouble have been working with him and for five he is bright. I'm not sure who had the most fun.

Today was also Jack's birthday, so in our family tradition, we had what he wanted for dinner. Trouble and I fixed him steak, potatoes and green beans. I also fixed pork chops, broccoli, and a salad. It was so good to have people over and share dinner. Jack glows when he talks about Trouble and he seems so smitten. It was good to see, and Trouble looks great!

Sunday I will be looking over a contract, sending Official emails (follow ups), and catching up on football. I will also be glued to the chair for the final Rays versus Red Sox game.....knitting perhaps, depends on the game.

I may even post a late Temptations because I have a ton of stuff to enable everyone with.....beware.....

Floating and Soaring

Happy Saturday! Just dropping by a moment to jot down some thoughts.

Yesterday I got to spend time with a very special friend. I was a bit melancholy, so we decided to go to the movies at 2:00PM in the afternoon. How random is that for a Friday? What did we see? We saw The Women. It is a remake of the 1939 version that had such famous actresses as Joan Crawford and Rosalind Russell. I must admit, there were some very poignant lines about love and life that made me actually cry, but for the most part it was just the escape that I needed. It is an excellent "chic flick" and I actually want to get the DVD for my collection. It will be a great movie for cold/rainy winter days.

After the movie, we went to one of our favorite places to listen to The Front Porch Society and have some wonderful brats that were cooked by St. Arnold's own James Cunningham. The brats were perfect! They had been soaked in Warsteiner beer, boiled for five minutes, and then grilled. The weather could not have been nicer for sitting outside. One of the perks for Friday happy hours at this place is buy the beer and keep the glass. We each got two beers. One of the glass styles we opted for was the .4L Pilsner glass. The second beer we opted for the .4L Party Mug. The music was wonderful. We were close enough to hear them but not so close that we were unable to have a decent conversation.

Good friends are so important. This special friend knew I needed an escape and the evening was exactly what the doctor ordered.

Today, I have been vegetating. I watched the Red River Shootout and Texas won! I have also been watching other games and will do so the remainder of the day. I am also knitting and now that I found the camera cable, I can finally download the rest of the pictures and get proof of knitting posted.

I will also be watching the Rays second game....

2008 MLB Playoff Central

ALCS	NLCS

vs.	vs.
Red Sox lead 1-0	Phillies lead 2-0
Game 1: Red Sox 2, Rays 0	Game 1: Phillies 3, Dodgers 2
Game 2: Sat. at Rays	Game 2: Phillies 8, Dodgers 5
Game 3: Mon. at Red Sox	Game 3: Sun. at Dodgers
Game 4: Oct. 14 at Red Sox	Game 4: Mon. at Dodgers
Game 5*: Oct. 16 at Red Sox	Game 5*: Oct. 15 at Dodgers
Game 6*: Oct. 18 at Rays	Game 6*: Oct. 17 at Phillies
Game 7*: Oct. 19 at Rays	Game 7*: Oct. 18 at Phillies
Full Red Sox-Rays coverage	Full Dodgers-Phillies coverage
* -- if necessary

Wedensday Interlude

My friend posted this on her blog and I could not resist answering them myself.

What is one thing you admire about each of your parents?

I admire my father's ability to learn new things daily. He always stressed to us that knowledge was power and that we should learn something new daily. To this day, he is still doing that very thing. He loves computers and electronics and learns new programs on his computer as needed.

I admire my mother's ability to live with my father and not have killed him after almost fifty years. No, really, she is always calm and loving and no matter what he dreams up or does, she can remain that way. She is truly a saint.

Which parts of your home do you like best?

Since I am currently in an apartment and not at the house I have known for the last ten years, I will answer about my new home. I love the WHOLE place. Why? Because it is mine and I am free to move the furniture daily if I want and decorate how I want. I am free to express myself in a way I have never done before. I love the neighbors and the little community we have in our part of the complex. We are a big family unit and act as such.

Which would you prefer and why? To have every stoplight turn green upon your arrival for the rest of your life or to have one week of the best sex any person ever had?

No challenge on this one! One week of the best sex hands down. What could be better than the best sex of one's life? Traffic can go to fiddle sticks compared to the best sex ever....

Tuesday Temptations

Wow! First, I am finally getting back to "normal" from the sensory overload. I will freely admit that the rev of a motorcycle still makes my heart beat a little faster and also makes me turn my head if I can to look for the owner of the sound.

I must admit that my fellow enabler, lanoue81, aided and abetted the purchase of this. I was pondering my decor and I decided that I needed this for entertaining, especially since I don't seem to be making any headway on getting my personal belongings yet. Not going to mention or dwell on it either. It will happen. Any who, I was shopping at a few places in the hopes that one would be both affordable and match my growing love for the espresso finish. I grew weary of the disappointments so I decided to peruse the online sites. Low and behold, the first one I found was on Amazon.com, and almost instantly upon reading the specs it was ordered. It arrived via FedEx and I had to assemble it. It should have only taken about fifteen minutes to assemble; however, George assured me that he knew how to use my cordless drill/screwdriver and Gracie assured me that she could indeed hand me the parts as I needed them. Needless to say, it took about a half hour to assemble it. It is perfect! I have added a few bottles to it already and have placed the sparse bar tools and wine glasses I have inside.

With that in mind, I have now been in search of a few bar essentials that are needed to mix my poisons. I would love to have this, and monogrammed of course, because I find that very classic. If money were no object, ha, I would love to have this, this, this, and this. Of course, since I love anything monogrammed, anything from this page would be very acceptable. Of course, anything from this page and this page is necessary for a well stocked bar as well.

Speaking of entertaining, I would love to have this because I have a wonderful recipe that I would love to make for some one special for the holidays. Not sure who yet, but then again, my dance card could fill up. Yeah, and I could win the lottery or find a magic lamp with a genie inside. Any how, I would love anything from this page as well. Something about glass serving items is so clean and classic. Although, this tray really caught my attention. And I LOVE this napkin pattern, but a solid table cloth could be a challenge. I also think that this one goes better with the Moroccan theme I have been exploring.

Now, we get to blame my little sister for this one. She mentioned an evening with her better half and this. I was instantly dreaming of a way to get this as a gift....family...hint...hint....?!

Disclaimer....while I would love to be able to shop at both stores linked in these items, I am a working gal trying to be practical. Some of the things I want I already may own, but just don't have them in my possession. Others I do not have and will be looking for them in places that fit my budget. However, that blue tray may be a need item to set off the wine bar.

Last bit of stuff:

2008 MLB Playoff Central

ALCS	NLCS

vs.	vs.
Series tied 0-0	Series tied 0-0
Game 1: Fri. at Rays	Game 1: Thurs. at Phillies
Game 2: Sat. at Rays	Game 2: Fri. at Phillies
Game 3: Mon. at Red Sox	Game 3: Sun. at Dodgers
Game 4: Oct. 14 at Red Sox	Game 4: Mon. at Dodgers
Game 5*: Oct. 16 at Red Sox	Game 5*: Oct. 15 at Dodgers
Game 6*: Oct. 18 at Rays	Game 6*: Oct. 17 at Phillies
Game 7*: Oct. 19 at Rays	Game 7*: Oct. 18 at Phillies
Full Red Sox-Rays coverage	Full Dodgers-Phillies coverage
* -- if necessary

Sorry to all my bloggy friends, but I will be cheering LOUDLY for the Rays! Games start for the NLCS Thursday and then Friday for the ALCS I will be glued to a TV cheering for Carl Crawford and the Rays.

Sunday Post on Monday....

2008 MLB Playoff Central

AMERICAN LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES

vs.	vs.
Rays lead 2-1	Red Sox lead 2-1
Game 1: Rays 6, White Sox 4	Game 1: Red Sox 4, Angels 1
Game 2: Rays 6, White Sox 2	Game 2: Red Sox 7, Angels 5
Game 3: White Sox 5, Rays 3	Game 3: Angels 5, Red Sox 4
Game 4: Mon. at White Sox	Game 4: Mon. at Red Sox
Game 5*: Wed. at Rays	Game 5*: Wed. at Angels
Full White Sox-Rays coverage	Full Red Sox-Angels coverage
* -- if necessary
NATIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES

vs.	vs.
Phillies win 3-1	Dodgers win 3-0
Game 1: Phillies 3, Brewers 1	Game 1: Dodgers 7, Cubs 2
Game 2: Phillies 5, Brewers 2	Game 2: Dodgers 10, Cubs 3
Game 3: Brewers 4, Phillies 1	Game 3: Dodgers 3, Cubs 1
Game 4: Phillies 6, Brewers 2	Full Dodgers-Cubs coverage
Full Brewers-Phillies coverage

After so much activity, I could not stay up and watch the late Sunday Football Game or the end of the Red Sox verses Angles game. I see above where the American League still needs another round to determine the winners. Looks like the Phillies versus the Dodgers is up next.

I do know that Green Bay lost, as did the Texans and Buffalo. Football season is long and there have already been some horrible injuries. Let's hope that the rest of the season only allows the "normal" ones like sprains and groin pulls (etc.) and no more spinal or worse injuries.

The Detroit Shock won the WNBA title yesterday. I am sorry that San Antonio did not perform better, but they should hold there heads up high. They made it to the finals and looked great against a very well coached team. If the Shock sign Bill Lambier to another contract, the Shock will most assuredly get a fourth title.

Back to work...I have more to post, but it will be later tonight when I am home.

Sensory Overload!

WOW! Today was day two of the Texas National Motorcycle Rally. It could not have been a more perfect day for an outdoor event. The weather was perfect and there was a great breeze. I actually got a bit of a sunburn because I didn't reapply sunscreen as often as I should have. Thank goodness I can apply good lotion and avoid peeling.

The venue was amazing today! My "guide" should have ridden the Big Dog today. It would have won a prize in the show. It is dark apple red with flames and is totally decked out in chrome and Maltese Cross accessories. At nine feet long it is quite impressive.

I saw a version of this bike and loved the clean lines that she has. It is about 658 pounds and I should be able to hold her up easily. I also saw numerous versions of this bike. She weighs in at about 725 pounds and my "guide" said that I can easily support her as well.

We also saw a large number of these bikes. They all had custom paint jobs and were drop dead beautiful! They weigh out at 764 pounds. I thought it might be too much for me to support, but apparently not. It would be hard for me to support this one with a passenger, but if I never intended to ride with anyone on back, I could handle her.

We saw a lot of this brand, this brand, this brand, this brand, and more Harley-Davidson models than I could ever list on one evening. I learned about dressed, pegs, walking, rocking, and ape hangers. I saw women riding solo and very comfortable on their bikes. I saw women on choppers as well. I saw old people and young people alike showing off their bikes and life in general.

We saw nitro drag racing motorcycles and other bikes that raced as well. We saw the bike show and got to see the winners of each class up close and personal. The owners of all the bikes we saw were friendly and answered any and all questions that we asked. We saw all kinds of skill contests and some silly ones as well.

We also got to listen to some more amazing music. We loved Bugs Henderson. His drummer was a woman and she literally rocked! We also got to hear the legendary Rick Derringer. The set was amazing! The last two songs were Hang On Sloopy and Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.

I cannot even begin to tell you how much fun the last two days have been. I cannot thank my "guide" nearly enough for not only suggesting the event but taking the time to go with me and make sure that I was not only having fun but getting to see and do things that I wanted as well.

In other news, I noticed the Baseball updates....

2008 MLB Playoff Central

AMERICAN LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES

vs.	vs.
Rays lead 2-0	Red Sox lead 2-0
Game 1: Rays 6, White Sox 4	Game 1: Red Sox 4, Angels 1
Game 2: Rays 6, White Sox 2	Game 2: Red Sox 7, Angels 5
Game 3: Sun. at White Sox	Game 3: Sun. at Red Sox
Game 4*: Mon. at White Sox	Game 4*: Mon. at Red Sox
Game 5*: Wed. at Rays	Game 5*: Wed. at Angels
Full White Sox-Rays coverage	Full Red Sox-Angels coverage
* -- if necessary
NATIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES

vs.	vs.
Phillies lead 2-1	Dodgers win 3-0
Game 1: Phillies 3, Brewers 1	Game 1: Dodgers 7, Cubs 2
Game 2: Phillies 5, Brewers 2	Game 2: Dodgers 10, Cubs 3
Game 3: Brewers 4, Phillies 1	Game 3: Dodgers 3, Cubs 1
Game 4: Sun. at Brewers	Full Dodgers-Cubs coverage
Game 5*: Tues. at Phillies
Full Brewers-Phillies coverage

I also saw where Texas Tech, Texas, West Virginia, Memphis, Tennessee and Ohio State won today.

Tomorrow we have Game Three of the WNBA Playoffs. We also have the Packers versus the Falcons.

Off to bed now...I am coming down from sensory overload and need beauty sleep....

TGIF!

2008 MLB Playoff Central

AMERICAN LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES

vs.	vs.
Rays lead 2-0	Red Sox lead 2-0
Game 1: Rays 6, White Sox 4	Game 1: Red Sox 4, Angels 1
Game 2: Rays 6, White Sox 2	Game 2: Red Sox 7, Angels 5
Game 3: Sun. at White Sox	Game 3: Sun. at Red Sox
Game 4*: Mon. at White Sox	Game 4*: Mon. at Red Sox
Game 5*: Wed. at Rays	Game 5*: Wed. at Angels
Full White Sox-Rays coverage	Full Red Sox-Angels coverage
* -- if necessary
NATIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES

vs.	vs.
Phillies lead 2-0	Dodgers lead 2-0
Game 1: Phillies 3, Brewers 1	Game 1: Dodgers 7, Cubs 2
Game 2: Phillies 5, Brewers 2	Game 2: Dodgers 10, Cubs 3
Game 3: Sat. at Brewers	Game 3: Sat. at Dodgers
Game 4*: Sun. at Brewers	Game 4*: Sun. at Dodgers
Game 5*: Tues. at Phillies	Game 5*: Tues. at Cubs
Full Brewers-Phillies coverage	Full Dodgers-Cubs coverage
* -- if necessary

Okay, the Rays are doing great. The Red Sox are leading. The Brewers and the Cubs need to win Saturday!

Detroit beat San Antonio tonight to take a two game lead in the WNBA finals as well. Not good for San Antonio, but I am still cheering for San Antonio, because someone special likes Becky.

The Texas National Motorcycle Rally was sensory overload tonight. We arrived at 5:45 PM just minutes after the main gates were open to the public. We toured the Vendor Area and looked at lots of bikes. I was like a kid in a toy store. I had more questions than my "guide" could handle. It was quite funny at times.

We arrived at the concert venue in time to hear Ghost Riders perform. They were really good. The next band was Blackfoot. They were a little more on the hard rock side, but they had some good songs. The main attraction at the concert venue tonight was the Marshall Tucker Band. Enough said if you know Southern Rock!

My "guide" and I stayed until 11:15PM. We were both tired and wanted to make sure we got home before the bars closed so that we can get back out there by Noon tomorrow to watch the Drag Racing Eliminations, and then stay for the rest of the Day's activities.

Having said that, I need to sleep, as I am meeting the "guide" at 11:30 AM Saturday so that I can drive tomorrow. Fair is fair, and since I was the passenger tonight, I get to drive tomorrow. So, sleep tight and sweet dreams. More tomorrow after sensory overload part two.

Thoughts for Thursday

Fast post, as 5AM comes really fast for some reason!

AMERICAN LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES

vs.	vs.
Rays lead 1-0	Red Sox lead 1-0
Game 1: Rays 6, White Sox 4	Game 1: Red Sox 4, Angels 1
Game 2: Fri. at Rays	Game 2: Fri. at Angels
Game 3: Sun. at White Sox	Game 3: Sun. at Red Sox
Game 4*: Mon. at White Sox	Game 4*: Mon. at Red Sox
Game 5*: Wed. at Rays	Game 5*: Wed. at Angels
Full White Sox-Rays coverage	Full Red Sox-Angels coverage
* -- if necessary
NATIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION SERIES

vs.	vs.
Phillies lead 2-0	Dodgers lead 2-0
Game 1: Phillies 3, Brewers 1	Game 1: Dodgers 7, Cubs 2
Game 2: Phillies 5, Brewers 2	Game 2: Dodgers 10, Cubs 3
Game 3: Sat. at Brewers	Game 3: Sat. at Dodgers
Game 4*: Sun. at Brewers	Game 4*: Sun. at Dodgers
Game 5*: Tues. at Phillies	Game 5*: Tues. at Cubs
Full Brewers-Phillies coverage	Full Dodgers-Cubs coverage
* -- if necessary

The Rays won today. I have to admit that I am partial to this team, for many reasons. I also will freely admit that I had a few pangs when they were panning the city. They passed quickly and I am happy for the team. They have worked hard and deserve to advance. I want the Brewers to win, but they are now down two games.....doesn't look good. I am also cheering LOUDLY for the Cubs, but they need to get it together. They had TOO many errors tonight.

Tomorrow, we have to cheer loudly for the San Antonio WNBA team to beat the Detroit team. Why? Because they have never won and deserve to, plus, I really don't like Bill Lambier.....

Okay, off to bed...I need beauty sleep so that I can do something I have never done before. I will be going to a motorcycle rally this weekend. More on that later, and yes, I WILL be taking knitting. And I promise, pictures will appear this weekend, FINALLY!