OK with K-9s -- 25 things to be thankful for

I have not only been blessed with many two-legged friends, but four-legged ones as well. This weekend it’s all about Fiona. The cats aren’t appreciating this change of pace, but it is nice to be the auntie for a weekend and then send her back to her mom.
Honestly I would love to own a dog, but there is just too much to it. She is a handful, but not in a bad way. She has got me to walk, which my ankles are holding up to rather well, keeps me at home, which is a nice change and lets me touch on a new part of life.
As stated Misha and Lassie are having none of this. Misha spends most of his time resting on his perch (my sewing table) and teases the poor little pug while Lassie has taken on a vampire persona coming out only at night when Fiona is in her kennel. I feel a bit like a bad mommy since she is taking up most of my time, but I am sure they will get over it.
Fiona is the latest addition to the animal reserve that is my friend Patty’s house. She has quite a collection of pets including Mayo, Duncan, Francis and now Fiona. She also has had a variety of praying mantises, guinea pigs, frogs, fish and such. A true animal lover, Patty has always taken in the less fortunate, including me in times of stress, but lately she has been lucky with healthy and happy pets. See there was Phat Head who was a black pug and who had an attitude that culminated in him pissing everywhere. Then there was Mr Pickles, a hyperactive Boston Terrier who was a bit of a terror since he was deaf with only one ball. I have to admit, they were all cute. Now there is Fiona and she is a love.
It has been fun watching her and seeing how it is to be a dog person. Right now she is laying at my feet under the table snoring up a storm and really providing a soothing music to this lazy Sunday morning. Patty has always been the person I counted on to babysit my pets when I traveled and even suggested her as a sitter for friends. Now it is my turn to pay back all that she has done for me in such a special way. I mean look at the pics, could she be any cuter.
So one more day and I will be back to being a cat person without early morning walks, constant playing and sweet sloppy kisses. It’s both a blessing and a sad-hearted time when I must see her go. But I am sure I can have visitation rights.

Breakfast, the Most Important Meal of the Day - 24

There is something very special about eating in the out-of-doors. Living in Florida, it’s amazing how rarely I do it. Fickle weather has a way of spoiling dinner plans in the summer and the chill of anything below 70 degrees is too cold for us Southern gals. But when experiencing the outer bands of a hurricane, the weather can actually be more palatable. The sun is shaded by the clouds, the breeze floats past and the temperature leaves only a glistening of sweat on the skin. A cold drink heals any heat-induced wounds making for a very enjoyable outside experience.

Until last weekend, I didn’t really have a great place to sit outside. I would dine on the porch, but the screened-in feeling wasn’t the same as being under the influence of Mother Nature. So as a treat, I power washed my deck revealing nice, rustic wood and creating a place to relax, dine and even entertain. That’s what I did. On Sunday I had the neighbors over to behold my new party spot and this morning I took the relaxing mode to a whole new level.

Gustav is battering Cuba and we are experiencing a low humidity and heat day (for those not from here that means it is only about 83 degrees with a humidity level of about 80% instead of 100%.) A cool breeze kept the bugs at bay and the hint of a storm left a sweet clean smell in the air. I kept my charge entertained (that’s Fiona and another story) while I made a great breakfast of scrambled eggs and bacon.

(So does anyone have any bread making tips. I make the dough in the breadmaker and then I let it rise on its own before I bake it. How long should I bake it to make the crust nice, but the inside soft, but not doughy. I appreciate any advice you may have.)

A Good News Day - 23

I love when there is something in the news besides Olympics, Conventions and Hurricanes. They are still all there, but have been deposed as the kings of the hill by the latest tidbits that caught my eye. Firstly , and not to straggle to far behind last week’s political brouhaha, there is McCain’s choice of a running mate. I laughed, I got mad, I laughed again. What a doofus. Oh excuse me, his team is such a doofus team. Let’s blame it on them since if this man wants to be the president he better learn to make better choices or his Cabinet will be more like an Aryan rally than a democratic body. McCain says this is not a way to pander to those disillusioned Hillary supporters, but that is an even more transparent lie than “we did not have sex”.

As a Hillary supporter, and now a backer of Obama, I find his choice a farce that constitutes a backlash of the 1950s. Yes I did say previously that clearly defined roles would be nice, but I will define them, not some old fuddy-duddy. I used to like McCain, back in 2000. He would have given Gore a real run for the money and may have actually won, instead of being appointed like our current Monarch. But this is such a slap to me as a woman that I really am starting to hate the man. If he thinks that just because she is a woman I will vote for her then he is even more of an idiot than Georgie Porgie. I didn’t vote for Hillary because she was a woman. I voted for her because of experience, knowledge and as a new opportunity.

Palin is as far away from whom I would ever vote for that she is on the other side of the globe. I love Alaska and even hope to one day live there for 4 months out of the year, but even Alaskans will tell you that they are a weird breed. So she suits all the staunch, back woods-thinking conservatives with her anti-abortion stance, her NRA membership and her beauty queen image, but enough already. Is that what makes a Veep? I appreciate her ability to hunt for her own food, her stamina as a mother of five and her perfectly formed cheekbones, but isn’t that more a movie than reality. Every redneck and militia man, and a few women, are creaming their pants in high hopes of this woman, but not I. As Mo Rocca said, this at least ties up the caribou vote for the old man. These beasts of the wild will be given the right to vote any day now and America watch out. Even though she would prefer to shoot them than to get her picture taken with them, the vote will be unanimous for Palin from that particular demographic. http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/08/29/palin.bio/index.html

I can see it now, a rehash of 2000, except this time it will be the Salmon Republic’s fault instead of the Banana Republic. (And I am not talking about the store, I am talking about the coincidence that the President’s brother was the governor of the state that had all the “issues” and therefore the meathead was appointed to office.) Yes I see it, ballots pleading for McCain as president from a largely ethnocentric Native American Alaskan group with names that can’t be pronounced by any guy in Missouri, but since they voted for the old sleeper, it is OK. Funny how those who respect the land of their ancestors would vote for open oil drilling to pollute that land, unabashed destruction of the flora and fauna and increased global warming. Sort of like the group of Jewish ladies in West Palm who voted for Buchanan in 2000. Something smells fishy and I don’t think it is the halibut.

We’ll just have to wait and see. Maybe his stick-figure Stepford wife will become jealous, have an over exposure to Botox and collagen and he will have to pull out of the race in order to bring her back to health a la Pete Burns. http://www.awfulplasticsurgery.com/archives/000253.html


But it wasn’t all politics yesterday, let’s move on to sex. David Duchovny went to rehab for sex addiction. As I saw it on Extra I sighed and Ronn read my mind, “If only he had you.” Yes David me. I know my friend Sara is saying the same thing since she was totally in love with the man. I first saw D in The Rapture, with then Tom Cruise wife, Mimi Rogers. It was a hot film, until the zealous religious message took over. Then of course there was Twin Peaks and X-Files, not to mention Red Shoe Diaries. Now who wouldn’t have known that Duchovny was really into sex with those. All kinky and exotic, and oh so erotic. On the X-Files, Mulder was a phone sex regular with the names and numbers stored in his paranoid brain along with dates for several alien invasions. http://www.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idUSN2835847820080829?feedType=RSS&feedName=entertainmentNews

I once wrote an erotic story as an X-Files episode and now I wish I would have sent it to him, at least he may have used it as a self-pleasure enhancement. The tale I imagined had Mulder meeting up with an old flame from Oxford who was a dominatrix, and he rightfully her slave back then. Old habits die hard as she helps him investigate some strange goings-ons while of course rehashing old times. Scully also finds out a little bit more about herself and her likely lesbian tendency in this adaptation. It was definitely an X-rated story, but by today’s standards, and proper editing for cable, it could be done.

The news didn’t say what exactly constituted his addiction, but only that he is getting help. I wish him all the best and will now have to watch Californication to get a better idea of what may be more truth than fiction.


And lastly, a story that was found by a co-worker earlier this week on CNN.com. Happily married and wanting a divorce, sounds like fun. It was a major discussion among the baklava-making crowd on Tuesday (that will be another entry). It really was a call to the reality of relationships, you can still be in love, yet want to be apart. Since I am the single in the group, it was nice to know I am not totally weird when it comes to having my cake and eating it too. There is no prince charming, and if you think you got him, then you are a perfect voter for McCain and the beauty queen.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/personal/08/26/o.divorce.dreams/index.html

I always thought a perfect marriage for me would be having my beloved live next door since I like having my own house and space. I would also keep my own friends since those couples that only have couple friends are in a bad state when one leaves the other. You have to admit boredom can set in really quickly and then you are sunk, whether a man or a woman. What really stood out for all of us was the “My husband is my best friend “– translates into “I have no friends.” I have been fortunate to have not lost any friends to this disease, but I realize there are a lot of those kinds of ladies out there. It’s an awful lot of pressure to be the end all be all for your mate. Or it could just be narcissism like in Guy’s case. I have friends to chat with, friends to drink with, friends to eat with, friends to knit with, friends to bitch with and friends to go to the market with. Doesn’t mean my relationship is any less with Ronn, I just have many options, as does he.

This article appeared mean to some, but to us, happily married and happily single, it expelled the lies and opened up opportunities for these lost women. However, if they are comfortable, more power to them. At least it’s not me.


But it was a good news day and I am thankful for those days. I am also very grateful that I can say anything I want about a political candidate, even the old man; to talk about sex in public and to stand on my soapbox about relationships. We've come a long way - let's not slide back too far.

It’s My Potty and I’ll Eat My Cake Like I Want To – Twenty-two

One of my greatest joys is kid birthday parties. As a child I hated them since I wasn’t part of any clique or trendy after-school troupe, but now I view them a bit differently. I’ve been blessed to be invited to the yearly engagements only by open-minded folks who have diverse interests and acquaintances. Translation: none of that couple/couple, “when are you going to have children”, my child walks on water kinds of soirees. No I leave those to the moms who have to endure just because of the social code of parenting – if invited to a party for your child’s friend/classmate/scout mate and such, you must attend. Excuses such as “We’ll be in New York that weekend on a culinary excursion” or “I planned on going to the Obama rally that weekend” just won’t do. But I am immune to those things since as a single woman with no children I carry the plague of what could have been and therefore a menace to motherhood.

Let me rephrase that. A menace to the Stepfordesque sensibilities of motherhood. There.

I only get invited to the cool kid parties. Like my recent afternoon at Leilani’s third year anniversary. It rocked. Not only is Leilani a little wonder, with a great set of lungs to wake the dead, but her brother Noah is one of the smartest kids I know. He is also very kind. They both are, they must get that from their parents. Being single and childless was actually a help in this case when Renee asked me to come over early, about 3 hours early, to help her with setting up. Not a problem. I was there with piñata in hand and ready to fill treat bags, set up the table and chat with some of the other early partiers. It was a nice mix of kids, moms, dads, singles and marrieds. There was also adult punch, which is a plus in my book.

Treated to a bouncy house, an exquisite cake from Chantilly Cakes and more presents than she knew what to do with, Leilani was the gracious three-year-old always being sweet with no meltdowns. In fact none of the kids fell apart, amazing. Neither did the adults.

It was also nice to meet new people and to get to know Noah and Leilani more. Renee and Patrick have such a diverse group of friends that there was no time to get bored or ignored as the children flocked in numbers to beat the crap out of the Backyardagains piñata or run through the house like a pack of wild dogs. That is not an overstatement. They actually reminded me of free canines as they went from one room to the other, stopping at the table to fill up on chips and cookies and then back outside to bounce and bounce and bounce. It definitely made those quiet moments that much more precious.

I really loved it and was so thrilled to be invited and even to be bestowed with the title Auntie. Now I am getting ready for Vivi’s birthday in a month and the totally different dynamic, yet still festive party.

I have to admit though that the best kid’s party I ever went to were ones thrown by Paul and Heidi. How many kid parties have a well-stocked bar, gourmet cheeses and desserts, sushi and the host dressed in a Devil Girl tee? I miss those shindigs. The kids had fun, the parents had fun, hell even the dogs had fun. What’s not to love.
In fact, each time I am invited to one of these markers, no matter who is throwing it (all my friends are cool) I long more and more to be Auntie Mame! Penthouse, Chanel, Martinis and all.

The Ladies Who Read - Twenty-one

When I started going to the monthly book club meetings in Dunedin almost 2 years ago, my only intention was to fill-up some time, meet some nice people and hopefully finish at least one book a month.

The first meeting was hosted by my dear friend, Misty and other than her the only other person I had any previous info on was Nancy. Our first book was “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon (www.markhaddon.com). I loved the book. The autistic narrator thrilled me and I found such delight in the murder-mystery aspect paired with the sociological study and the dose of stepping out of my overly rational comfort zone. I was the only one who liked it. Some found it disconcerting and hard to read (chapters were numbered in primes only – 1,3,5,7,11,13, etc.), some, who had previous experience with autistic people, hated the reality of the boy’s characterizations, and others, mainly mothers, were annoyed by the trouble it would take to have such a child.

After that, I seriously considered whether or not to return since at first glance I had nothing in common with these folks. But I persisted, thanks to Misty and Nancy. Sometimes I didn’t get the books read on time (“Middlesex” by Jeffrey Eugenides - http://www.oprah.com/article/oprahsbookclub/middlesex/middlesex_author_bio/1, which I finished in the parking lot across the street), sometimes I shut them off halfway out of boredom (“Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett) and sometimes I just wasn’t interested in the first place (“Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister: A Novel” by Gregory Maguire and Bill Sanderson).

On the other hand, it did open my eyes to some books I have been wanting to read (“Lady Sings The Blues” by Billie Holiday - http://www.billie-holiday.net/), some I would never have picked up (“Snow Flower and the Secret Fan: A Novel” by Lisa See - http://www.lisasee.com/) and books that had a special influence on my life (“Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia” by Elizabeth Gilbert - http://www.elizabethgilbert.com/).

We have ventured into fiction and non-fiction, chick-lit and less mainstream offerings, but what I have found to be the most wonderful aspect of this adventure are the people I get to spend an hour or so with each month under the pretense of reading a good book.

The dream of having time to read a book a month has turned into reading a couple books a month with stacks overwhelming my living room and bedroom waiting to be cracked open and exposed. As is my own inspirational spirit.

Each month, I get to learn more about these women (we have had one man, but I think he only wanted to be there to meet Misty and, shall we say, hook-up). They each have very vivid backgrounds from one woman who came of age in a time when a woman’s main goal was to marry and have kids and live a sheltered-domestic life only to be driven into a world struggling with the redefinition of the female role to a woman who grew up outside of Paris, a diplomat’s daughter finding herself in the nightlife of D.C. and settling into the battle of her life for a little girl that wasn’t even her own spawn, but more loved by my friend than by her own mother. Some come to visit from the Great White North during our winter and others try their damnedest to make it to every meeting.

I value this time more and more as the months pass and look forward to new books and ideas every time. Our discussions seem to diverge usually into our intimate philosophies about who we are and who we have been. In fact, at the last meeting, while discussing “Three Cups of Tea” by By Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin (http://www.threecupsoftea.com/) our collective stream of conscience lead us to women who are content to wear bukkhas (http://www.motherjones.com/news/feature/2001/05/iran.html ) and appreciate their role in Islamic society and how that wasn’t too far off from women wearing dresses and pearls in the 1950s’ dream of perfect wife and motherhood. Roles were clearly defined in that age and I (letting my mouth speak freely from my soul) said, “Wouldn’t it be nice sometimes to have some of those clear definitions back?”

For those who know me, I am an independent woman and though I would love to be cared for, I still have a strong liking for my own way of being. But the discussion lead to this point and it was a nice thought to be able to step out of my “role” as a single woman and share my point. This is what this group does to me --- lets me see things a bit askew from my normal vision and to learn from it.

Some ladies strongly disagreed and others nodded in recognition, not necessarily agreement. As we say in the ad game “My branding had changed.” But these are the kinds of things we touch upon at each meeting. And I am very thankful for that, and for these lovely, smart, funny and unpretentious women who I would have never met if not for a few good reads.

If you care to join us, here are some books we are going to be reading (and a couple I hope will make the list next year):

September 2008 Girls in Trucks by Katie Crouch
October 2008T he Liar's Club: A Memoir by Mary Karr
November 2008 Icy Sparks by Gwyn Hyman Rubio
December 2008 The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

Educating Alice: Adventures of a Curious Woman by Alice Steinbach
Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet by Joanne Proulx

A Job Well Done - Numero 20

I like to have tasks accomplished. As a procrastinator this is both a blessing and a challenge. But once I get going I can do anything. Nothing really feels as good as a job well done. OK good sex does, but that is another post.

The past few days I have accomplished a lot and for that, I am truly grateful. Tying up loose ends always feels so good. So far I cleaned the gutters, cleaned out the garage, finished my articles for the magazine I am working on, did all the laundry, read through my e-mail, finished my book club read for next month and did all the knitting for my latest project (it’s a purse so the knitting is only phase one.)

I am not an overachiever or a Type-A personality, but I do get a good feeling when I have finished a project, probably since I don’t finish many. Some have told me this is a sign of depression, to not finish things, but I think it is a sign of a curious mind and I keep jumping to other things. I am not ADD or anything like that, I’m just very inquisitive and love learning new things. And I am a list maker, so when I can cross it off the list, I feel cleansed.

There is just something about doing a project to completion, especially something I have been putting off for a while. Once I got the garage all organized, I not only noticed all the space I had, but I noticed that I was ready to get rid of a load of crap. I hate the thought of cleaning the gutters, but once I am working on it, I don’t mind all the dirt and sludge all over me. It is a good feeling to know that something was removed from the “To-Do” list only to be replaced by 3 more things. But one step at a time.

Ronn is good about keeping me on track, otherwise I would have nothing done and be halfway through my “Bake-Off” recipe and a bathroom in more disarray than it already is.

What makes it hard sometimes is the lack of time and resources to get things done. After working all day, I want to come home and veg, but there is dinner to be cooked, a house to be cleaned and love to be made. Then, if I am lucky I can watch TV, knit or read. Being the sole breadwinner in my house, funds can be tight and there is a lot to eat up the funds I already have. I make do and slowly ebb my way towards completion of the big projects by keeping myself occupied by the smaller ones.

Sometimes I wish I could do more. Like being one of those women who works all day and comes home to write a novel, make a dress, solve a crime or refinish antique furniture. I just don’t have the energy all the time. But I know people who do, so I know it can be done, just not by me.

The Sound Of Silence - Day 18

One of the greatest treasures I enjoy is basking in silence in the morning. The sound of the cat purring, the fan spinning, the pages of a book turning or my own breathing are welcome companions to lead me into a busy day.
I used to have a routine in the morning, when I was single, that I could slowly move into the day in peace and quiet. I treasure these moments more since they are few and far between. Yet, I have had two consecutive mornings of silence and I am so thankful.
Yesterday I was alone as I woke, not counting my little kitties. I made coffee in silence, fed them, did a few chores and sat back in bed to read for 15 minutes of peace. It was glorious, I actually felt like crying since I was so happy. Blessed again this morning with the absence of TV.
In such a ruckus of a world it is very important for me to have those moments when I am being more than doing. I appreciate the company of my own thoughts, or the words of others or inspirations. I like daydreaming and reliving moments in a state of clarity. It is when all things seem to make sense. Trials at work are not such a big deal, problems with friends and family are smaller and any hassles set before me are confined to a sense of “whatever.” True peace …. And quiet. Shhhhhhhh.

Me, Myself and iPod - Day 17

I love my iPod, I really do. I used to make fun of Guy for his unnatural relationship with this little bit of metal and plastic, but now I sort of understand. Though I will never be as skewed as he was when he first got his.
Story time: Guy got his iPod for Christmas a few years back. Patrick was down and drying his clothes in the dryer, the one without a timer that just kept running and running. When we were leaving to go to Joan’s for dinner, Guy brought his iPod. My mother’s voice emanated from deep within my soul as I stated, “You’re not taking that with us since this is a social occasion, and you don’t need to be plugged into that thing and ignoring everyone else.” In true Guy fashion, there was no anger at my attempt at power, but humor instead. “But what if the house burns down because the dryer won’t turn off? I could lose my iPod.” My response, “You mean you could lose your entire house and you only care about your iPod?” and his was delivered with an evil smile and a shake of the head, “For now? Yes.”
So it took me a while and now we are about to celebrate our one year anniversary, my iPod and I. I can’t live without it at my side. Like my phone, I can’t leave home without it, though I have forgotten it a couple of times and kicked myself for my absentmindedness.
Why do I love it so much? Like a true companion, it never lets me down. If I don’t like what it is saying at the moment, I move on to something else. It gives me a break when I want to just veg with massage music to whisk away the stresses of the day. I can listen to the Oprah network for a spirit jolt or for a laugh catch up with the humorous anecdotes and puns on “Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me.” Do I need a story? There is one with “This American Life” and “Studio 360”.
Plus the music. I have so many choices on there and playlists for lounging (a little Ann Margret), working out (Ramones and Gwen Stefani), relaxing (Sounds from the Rainforest) and party (Edith Piaf, Stereolab, Isaac Hayes).
What about a meditation to go to sleep? Got that too. And ones to help ease sickness, releasing fear and being in the moment.

It’s like the best radio station ever. I even figured that in the right mix, I can appreciate so much more music too. Judas Priest next to Judy Garland is nice, as is the Beastie Boys along side Burt Bacharach.
Yes I love my iPod, and I am so grateful I broke down to get the little nano. Now I just have to figure out how to get the iTunes store to work right and I can add even more like Rick Springfield, Mika and any new Lily Allen.

Hands and Feet - Day 16

Today at about 6:05 a.m., I felt a wave of gratitude for having use of my hands and feet. Stirring to the morning strings of whatever folk tune they were playing on 88.5 FM and wishing I didn’t have to get out of my wonderful bed, I was joined by a finicky little ebony and ivory tuxedo-wearing kitty. Misha loves waking me up to get his morning pets and kisses. This morning though he stayed beside me when his new little pal, Lassie came into the room.
Still uncertain about this whole indoor thing, but adapting better than any other feral cat ever would, Lassie circled just out of reach wanting to be loved, but not sure how close he should get to me. Finally, his large circles weaved towards my toes so I could stroke his ultra-soft fur with my feet.
I couldn’t help, but giggle and smile broadly at what would appear to be quite a weird way to show my kitties attention, but it felt absolutely right. From fingertips to toetips, I was contented, as were my felines.

One Room At A Time - Day 15

Today I am grateful for my garage. I looked at a lot of homes ten years ago and swore than a garage must be in my future. I wanted one of those organized things with shelves and workbenches and a perfect washer and dryer. I got sort of something like that, but with roomates, acquisition of more crap and an overwhelming sense of clutter, I never did much with it, but my laundry.
Now I am taking drastic measures to make it right. I have organized all my stuff as either keep, Craig's List or garage sale. I want most of it gone. In its place I am planning a work area to do my crafts, more organized shelves and possibly a place for my car. For now I am just working on cleaning it up and appreciating it.
I set about listening to the podcasts for "Wait, Wait Don't Tell Me" and got it done. I am very proud of myself and it only took about 4 hours.
I am very happy and grateful to have the gumption and ability to do this. Because of being not up to par lately, I felt really angry and helpless. The task this morning allowed me to feel confident again and vital. I am so excited.
Next is to take pictures of all the CL stuff and set a date for the garage sale. I hope to make some cash (it will support my front yard re-do) and to just move on without all the crap tying me down.
I don't know what it is, but me as a material girl is coming to an end. I am done with clutter and instead am appreciating the finer things in life (especially if I can get them on sale). And now I will have a place to store them.
Uh Oh!

Lassie Come Home - Day 14

I figured since I did a post to show my appreciation for Misha, it was only fair to do a post about Lassie.
So Lassie is now an indoor cat and the latest addition to my humble abode. Last year, around October, I found the litter of Lassie and his siblings living under my deck in the back yard. They were wee, not more than 3 or 4 weeks old and MaMa Cat was still nursing and keeping them safe from scary creatures like humans. They got a bit used to me over the year, since I fed them, gave them water and had countless hours watching them frolic. Bowser, the black and white one, was the first to go, disappearing into the night. I figured that since he was still pretty small, about 4 months old, he probably got picked up by a loving home who thought he would be a perfect new addition. The other cats were still skiddish, even though I showed them nothing but tender care. MaMa was especially weary of us, and made sure to keep her eyes on us when we fed her and her brood.
A few months back, Lassie, the creamsicle kitty, started letting me touch him once in a while when he was eating. Larger than the rest, and even larger than MaMa at less than a year old, he seemed the most shy of the group in this feral setting. He didn’t play with his brother Tigger or sister Pawsome as much as they romped together. He seemed a bit above it, snooty sort of. But he took a shine to me.
About a month ago he started rubbing up against my legs and beckoning me to pet him, on his terms. I complied and we struck a bond. But that was also about the time that MaMa and Pawsome were going into heat and stirring up some nonsense under my neighbor’s house. Not able to sleep for five nights straight he had to do something. So he called the ASPCA and got cages to trap the rascals and send them to the shelter.
Each morning I would wander outside afraid to be alone and see Lassie waiting for me. I would pet him, feed him and pet him some more. I decided that I wanted to help him out and make him my cat along with the accoutrements of regular meals, air conditioning, comfy pillows and of course neutering and shots.
But there was Misha. I let Lassie in one night to see Misha and though Misha played all badass and smacked him, there wasn’t any reciprocation and they both ended up lounging, in separate rooms. This sealed it. I had been picked by Lassie, quite an honor, and I had agreed to let him into my life, fully into my life.

Veggie Tales - Day 13

It’s not a big shocker to those of you that know me that I have always had a big problem with my weight. Being as I am now at an age that I need to lose it or get stuck with it forever, I have been trying things to go it alone and make it work. No good. Most of my friends do not have weight problems so they don’t really get it. Patty can drink beer every day and Shepherd’s Pie and be as petite as ever. Tuttie could dine on chips and beer each evening an nothing will ever move on her scale. But I could think about a chocolate chip cookie (and there it happened again) gain a pound.

It’s not that I don’t like to eat healthy, I love veggies and fish and chicken, but I love them so much I can’t stop eating. It is all portion control and being around people who dine almost solely on the bad foods. So I am following the Weight Watchers point system, good or bad, I feel it is the healthiest plan and I pray it works this time.

My silver lining lies in the fact that I love the foods that are healthy for me and I love to cook. Weight Watchers allows me to eat what I like, even the “bad” stuff, but to count it. So far the hardest thing for me to give up is cocktails. But I have found that Roobis Tea with Lemongrass is a nice drink for the end of the day. I just try to keep myself busy so I get tired around sunset and there you go – no drink needed.

Ronn eats completely different things than me, but I have decided to put myself first so that I can feel better and get thinner. And since my weight has been a bit of a problem for him, he will understand the measures I must take.

So I salute the veggies that lay before me. One trick I have found is to cut up all the snack veggies when I get them and put them in Tupperware. This way I can fill a quart bag each day for work and gnosh on that. (Oh and I am still working on this, since I have been doing this for two weeks and really hate them now.)

New mantra: I am very thankful that I love veggies! I am very thankful that I love veggies! UGH!

Time for An Intervention - Day 12

Yes, once again I am doubling up on days, but these are written seperately, just not posted since I would prefer to be knitting or cooking or just being and not at the computer for one more minute of the day. Thank you.

A couple weeks ago I had a bit of a breakdown and heart break at the same time. But in this time of doubt and darkness I was able to call on friends, even if it was a bit ridiculous. Patty was there to put the pieces of my Humpty Dumpty life back together again.
I called Patty for help, unsure about where I was going, and what I was supposed to do. So Patty came to my side and after the inquisition of why there was no beer in my house and she would have to settle for vodka, she comforted me.
She shared stories to make me feel less alone and supported me on any decision I made – either to stay or to go. She kidded about my ignorance and made me see the error of my self-destructive ways. Even a call for backup to Tuttie showed that she cared. (I think that was mostly because there was no beer in the house – from now on if I need and intervention I must remember to buy beer.)
Patty has been there for me a lot. She has taken care of Misha innumerable times when I went on excursions and always made a simple Saturday afternoon a treasure with conversation, bad TV and beer.
When my ex and I broke up, I was still allowed visitation rights with his sisters. The McGovern girls have been like sisters to me sharing in birthdays, adventures to Vegas, evenings in dive bars and through happiness and heartache. I never regretted my relationship, what it was, with their brother since I got them in the settlement.
Patty is the rambunctious one who gives her all to her school kids. Their charm and childlike sense of wonder keeps her young and witty. When asked if she would ever want kids by a parent at her school she responded, “I have 80 of them and then I send them home and have a six pack.” Her tales of what the kids say and the home life some have is shocking, but usually just so hilarious. I love her sense of style too with fashions found to look runway-esque, but not breaking the bank.
Tuttie, on the other hand, is like Switzerland, nothing phases her, usually. She lets you see perspective from a vantage point that dissipates the drama. Intelligent and witty as well, I applaud her for never losing the dream – goth/punk chick – and exploring new frontiers. She is my music ally, sharing with me all the cool stuff coming out of England – Kasabian, The Editors, Kaiser Chiefs. And as my concert buddy we have left of our own will (Flock of Fleabags) and been thrown out (The Editors) and stayed for at least one (Ministry and Revco). In all accounts we ended up laughing and having a good time anyway.
Another reason I am grateful for their companionship is because they refuse to be titled. We can have a cookout, dinner party, wine tasting, redneck excursion or meaningful occasion and it all works.
I am so lucky to be their friend (sister) and to know that sometimes not having a whole lot in common is what makes it all worthwhile.

As Seen On TV - Day 11

Today I feel especially grateful for Chris. Not just because in his free time of Photoshop doodling he created a new header for my blog page, but because he has been quite a pal for the past few years.
I don’t recall how we met, but it was friendship at first chat and probably killed an hour in what felt like a couple minutes. We did that often, prompted by passes by his office on the other side of the wall.
I am thankful for him being there when the world crashed a bit at my feet, telling me about the wonders of Portland and helping me stand and dust off my walking shoes to make the trek to what is now one of my favorite places. Each day he walked me through the city from 3,000 miles away sharing treasures like the Chinese Garden, Powell’s Bookstore and a great Mexican restaurant that I can’t remember the name of. I would love to go back with him sometime to see more of the things that my limited funds kept me from and with a driver who knows where he’s going.
That was the hardest trip I ever took and he made it one of the best. I had gone there to see someone I loved, and ended up spending time with a friend I will have forever on the phone line. Talk about rewarding. Oh and he introduced me to Moonstruck Chocolates. Yum.
Since then Chris has adapted to being my drinking buddy, since Guy is a bit too busy as of late with work and a boyfriend. He shares my love for food and unfortunately, my love for bad food. But he is an inspiration. He has really taken charge of his life and is treating himself so much better. I look to him and see what I can do for myself.
I am so thankful for our Saturday Morning market excursions, garden adventures, bookstore leanings and Whole Foods splurges.
Plus he has such a brilliant sense of humor – fresh always in my mind:
One night at Georgie’s, well it wasn’t dark, but I still consider it night since it was after work. I was a bit toasted and upon leaving I accidentally spilled my water with some splashing on another patron. The “gentleman” was a bit perturbed, but as Chris said when I almost cried for being so clumsy, “That’s not the worst that will be spilled on him tonight.” With a nonchalant air that made me feel so much better.
A truly wonderful human being, Chris is a true friend to so many and I know we all love him dearly. Right now I feel a bit emotional thinking about how lucky I am to have him in my life. He is a wonder and wonderful.
Thanks Chris for picking me out of the crowd and sharing so much with me. I love you.


Note: The pictures in the masterpiece above are:
Monumental Head Sculpted by Igor Mitoraj in the Boboli Gardens, Florence
Hens and chickens from Ronn’s garden
A card of inspiration that sits over my computer
My list of things I want to do by my next birthday
Laughing Clown at the Bubble Room, Captiva Island
Me at Crown Point overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

These Are The Days - Day 10

I thank the Universe for days like today. Simple pleasures are the ones that stir me most and today had an abundance since I placed my two semi-heeled feet on the floor. I slept in, which is something I rarely do. It has been a while since I saw my bedroom basking in the morning sun and humming with the gentle breeze of the fan in a surreal manner. It was just me and my two kitties, and I kept snoozing and relishing the essence of laziness that came to add so much meaning to my day.
I made breakfast, happy as usual to create with food. The omelette fell apart but was good to eat anyway with feta cheese chunks, fresh tomatoes and onions and peppers from my garden. Add a few capers for their yummy, salty goodness and whamo - omelette!!!
After that, my neighbor Jeff came over and we chatted. He is a pretty cool guy from Alabama who is as handy as they come. He refers to himself as a hillbillie, but I see him more as just a down home Southern Man (a la Lynyrd Skynrd). We are putting together a neighborhood picnic potluck thing for this month and he is all for it. I asked Dale, too, the neighbor behind me to host, which he loves since it means he's in control. He loves being in control.
Still lazy, we showered and that always feels good in this heat and relaxed for the rest of the afternoon. It was sublime. Now I need to wake up my man and get him on his feet to go to Moon Under Water for dinner.
So that was a listing of what I did, but what was I truly grateful for? Cliffnotes:
1. Sleeping in
2. Having an extremely comfortable bed and room to put it in
3. Sweet kitties to pet and feed and talk to when I wake up
4. Coffee - slightly sweet and creamy
5. A man who brings breakfast
6. Getting to make breakfast
7. To take the time and chat with my neighbors
8. A safe place to live
9. Warm water whenever I want it and soothing soaps to clean myself
10. Being able to work on the yard with minimal pain
11. Plants to tend to and grow, as well a harvest for food and pleasure
12. Making love in the afternoon and napping afterward
13. Cookbooks to peruse as I sit next to my sleeping lover
14. Listening to Lassie eat his kibbles as I write this - so cute
15. Having the money to go out once in a while - tonight Moon Under Water
And so much more.
Today was a great day - thank you Universe

Welcome to the Craft! - Day 9

My goal – to never spend more than $10 on one of my creations. How? Recycle and bargain shop. I am so happy to be crafty. Over the past few weeks of being ill, I actually felt joy when I was knitting and crafting. Ronn even said he would build me a nifty workbench in the garage so I can craft to my heart’s content. (First I have to clean out the garage.)
It is getting to be almost like my love of cooking. I confess that I have spent many a solo Saturday night perusing through cook books discovering new combinations and techniques. The same is true with online crafting sites. I have pages of print outs with patterns and notes to do all kinds of things.
Big Lots is one of my favorite places, though I have come to suspect they are getting rid of their yarn since the selection seems to be pretty dull lately. I used to spend a breezy $10 on yarn there with no idea of what I would do with it, just having all the soft threads in my hands and the wonderful colors calling out to me. Now as I get more ambitious, I am finding a use for my treasures.
I also have been looking for recycled materials like sweaters and buttons and purse handles to make new things. Watch out everyone, this Christmas, it could be crazy. So far headbands, scarves and belts are my forte. Next is a handbag which I am currently working on. It’s a test to see how it all works and to go from there. New techniques too – like felting and beading have worked their way into my head with hope.
I just don’t seem to have enough time to do all that I love so I find the time whenever possible – waiting in traffic, waiting in the doctor’s office, waiting for Ronn to get ready, or just watching TV.
I figure if I knit most nights it will keep my from eating – my hands will be busy and from drinking – since I can’t knit when I am buzzed. It could be my diet plan.
The discovery of new craft shows and the archaeological dig in my garage, I am even more inspired. ETSY here I come. Plus my stepmother gave me a portable sewing machine (not sure if it works) and a neighbor gave me her old Singer. It’s a classic, nestled in a table and petite in turquoise blue. I am making space in the library for it now, though I would love to eventually put it in my den. I have my altered books I made when I traveled, collages that have inspired a few stories, writing (of course) and other little tidbits that really bring to life my soul. Even though I falter into a practical world from time to time, I am elevated with the wonder that comes from little bleeps on the screen of my "ah-ha" gene.
It’s a lot of fun and even on a morning like this when I should be cleaning and should be doing a billion other things, I am thinking of crafting instead. I figure, like Guy says, you can clean when you’re dead.

What are some of your craft ideas? Care to share?