Friday, October 31, 2008

MP3/Meme

I just love the IPOD and hoped that we could share our love of music:

Where do you listen to your IPOD? For me it's at work, or on a walk.
What are your three favorite songs (from your MP3)? Howie Day's Collide, Lennon's Imagine and Dave Matthew's Crash.
What are you listening to that you did not listen to before? Mowown
Have you revisisted songs/artists from years past? Yes.
What are a few examples? Marvin Gaye, Bill Withers, Peter & Gordon, The Byrds (David Crosby, pre-CSNY) and Beatles.
With all the extra space (if you have any)are you exploring new artists? Yes
Who are they? Daughtry, Lonestar and Hoobastank.
What songs/artists do you want to add? Meatloaf.
Is there more that one genre of music in your MP3? Yes, pop, rock, folk and R&B primarily.
Are CD's becoming obsolete? I hope not.
What was the biggest suprise for you when you started using an MP3? I didn't know that there were games.
Tagged: Freudian Slips, Pax, and Grannie's Ramblings.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

The weekend that wasn't...

At the end of last week the weather turned chilly as we all know. I was invited to a wedding that was outdoors at 11 am on Saturday. Let's say, I did not need to worry about the sweater dress being too warm. We waited for what seeemed an hour for the bride to make an appearance. The bridesmaids were wearing shoulder revealing dresses. There was a little sun but there was a little wind and I know that they were cold. The ceremony was beautiful with a singer who could have gave Barbara Streisand a run for the money, no joke. The reception was beautiful overlooking a golf course and the champagne flowing. The chorus line and dance lines should be banned. The bride and groom looked great and so very happy, that's all that really matters. We each received a CD of their favorite songs. I am still enjoying some of them.
Sunday, off to Batso to visit with a friend but again it was cold. Thought only of buying a warm drink and gloves. I could no leave without the handmade lavender soap which smell so good. In the afternoon it was off to Almathea Winery. The wines were not much to brag about, although a guy next to me bragged that he'd traveled two hours for the wine that he claimed were the best in So.Jersey. "No, east of the Rockies," another guy replied. I think they both drank too much. The best part was sitting in the sun, or by the fire and petting the farm dogs.
Before you knew it the weekend was over.....Next week will be just R&R, I hope.

Books/Meme

From the Mommanator: comments at the end....

Do you remember how you developed a love for reading? Nope, never did!
What are some books you read as a child? Dick & Jane, Bible, Johnathan Livingston Seagull, Of Mice & Men, Call of the Wild.
What is your favorite genre? Medical Mystery, Spirituality Books
Do you have a favorite novel?Of Mice & Men
Where do you usually read? Car, easy chair
When do you usually read? When bored, when I see something I just can't keep my hands off
Do you usually have more than one book you are reading at a time? no only during research
Do you read nonfiction in a different place than you read fiction? Yes nonfiction is usually read while sitting up almost at a desk, Fiction is anywhere I plop myself
Do you buy most books you read, or borrow them or check them out of the library-buy and Library. Actually most from library
Do you keep most of the books you buy? If not, what do you do with them? Keep them, others I share with friends
If you have children, what are some favorite books you have shared with them? Were they some same ones you read as a child? Same as I read as a child. Also, love taking the grands to the library, pick up a book and then read with them(not to them, but with them)
What are you reading now? Nothing really, have been really busy, but have purchased some for when I get a minute
Do you keep a TBR (to be read) list? no unless someone says you MUST read this
Whats next?POP goes the Weasel by Patterson
What books would you like to reread? None, I can't stand to reread stuff. 2 of the only books I have read many times are Of Mice & Men & Call of the Wild
Who are your favorite authors?Robin Cook, Patterson,Clive Custler, Max Lucado

Ok now you are tagged: Shoe, Zelda Parker, Merci, & Pax
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As a pre-kindergardener I learned to read with Mom.
We read English nursey rhymes and I later like Hardy Boys & Nancy Drew to name a few.
Faves include: Mysteries.
Favorites: The Pelican Brief and Atonement
Where: In a comfy chair, the car, at my desk during lunch and in bed before sleep is the best.
When: Far too little lately, usually I read when there is nothing on tv but sports, waiting, and am wishing for an escape.
I am not proud of it but I usually have several books going at once, depends on my mood.
I read non-fiction for motivation, inspiration, cook books and gardening.
In the past I bought most everything I read. I have a library card that does see much action. Usually lend/give away the paperbacks and those especially good books.
No children of my own. Try to encourage children to read by giving books for gifts at birthdays. Bought "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" and though better of giving it to a ten year old after proof reading it. Maybe it's better in a couple years...
For about a year I have been reading "Saturday" and its not very thick. I have been reading Jenn Weiner's short stories almost as long. I have a Dali Lami book going as well.
I am trying not to buy any more until I read what I have. Thaqt should keep me busy for the rest of my life. I have a hard time passing up anything written by the Dali Lama.
My TBR list is the stack on the nighstand, right now there is probably a dozen books there as I have not finished more than one or two this entire year. I rarely reread anything but have tagged "the Power Positive Thinking" that was recently re-released with additional tex about the "Amazing results of Positive Thinking".
Favorite authors: Patterson, Grisham, Cornwell, Agatha Christie, Dali Lama, Ian McEwan, Jennifer Weiner, Jane Heller, Steven Covey,and Anne Tyler.

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

High ho, high ho....

It seems lately, my time has been consumer with work, work, work. There is the service sector & the dream of helping people, looking a little like swiss cheese. Rather that focus on the harshness of the world around I have been focused on the Garden of Eden which needs the weeds pulled now that it has finallay rained. I dream of adding some mums for fall color before this weekends open house. I took the day off and enjoyed staying up late and going to sleep when I felt like it. For once I slept like a baby, humm. Then I swept and moped, scrubbed and put away some summer clothes. By ten I was painting the front and back porch decks. At 12:30 pm I begrudlingly continued painting the home office which I had long ago started but never finished. In fact I almost forgot about it all together. So the first coat of neutral antique white is up and because I was covering my beloved sage green it will need another coat. The trim is really the bear as it was a darker shade of green than the walls. I only started painting the room because the trim throughout the house had been changed to a creamy white a couple years ago, except this room. The carpet had been replaced two years ago and I really must be careful not to spill. Hours of watching HGTV have taught me that buyers like bright and neutral colors. If folks don't like green than this will not be the house for them. Many have been throught to look, despite the realtors promises there has been no meanigful offers yet. I am hoping that this weeks open house will change that. So another day of painting the office, then some fresh flowers, and baked cookies. Any other ideas to suggest? The world seems to be looking sad lately but the Garden of Eden has never looked this good. Go figure?

Friday, September 26, 2008

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

What can I say?

Since my last blog, so much has happened, my day in court finally came and went. It could have been worse. The Garden of Eden is on the market at perhaps the worst time in America's history since the depression. There has never been more homes on sale. The first day I recieved an offer which at the time I thought to be ridiculous, but now I'm not so sure. Homes in my neighborhood do not have landscaping or large yards, few have any curb appeal. I've been told that some are taking any offers as they have other homes in play, or should I say in pay. I just replaced nearly every window in the house and still no new offers. The house did hasn't looked this good. I do not want to pay the exorbitant heating bills of last year. Hopefully something good will happen soon. The summer has been spent working a second shift (on the house)several days a week and frankly I am tired of it, in more ways than one.
Someone I worked with years ago,and indirectly, was asking about my name changes and was suprised to find I was happy....
We must try to hold on to the mantra, Life is short, live like you were dying. Oh, yeah that's a country song. You know what I mean. I've had too much drama and it cannot be healthy. Fall has never been so welcome....

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Bad Dream

Years ago Pax and Jax and I would analyze our dreams over coffee breaks. Now I want to see what psychoanalysis you can make out of this one. It really happened.

The other night I dreamt that bees were stinging me all over, so real I felt them on my arms.
They were no ordinary bees as they stuck to you skin and they had to be physically removed. I could not get them off fast enough. Someone came along as I nearly completed removing them and opening their hand and added a few more (no sticking there). I kept saying they are poisoning me and as I woke I could feel the sensations on my arms as if they were really being stung.

OK you psychology majors what do you make of this?

One Word

You can only type one word. It is not as easy as you might think. Copy or
> forward, change the answers to suit you, and pass it on (don't forget me).
> It's hard to only use one-word answers.
>
>
> 1. Where is your cell phone ? table
> 2. Your significant other? secret
> 3. Your hair? blondish
> 4. Your Skin? Fair
> 5. Your mother? Kathleen
> 6. Your favorite thing? gardens
> 7. Your dream last night? none
> 8. Your favorite drink? cosmopolitan
> 9. Your dream/goal? retirement
> 10. The room you're in? office
> 11. Your ex? bubba
> 12. Your fear? debt
> 13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? gardening
> 14. Where were you last night? friends
> 15. What you're not? brave
> 16. Muffins?YES
> 17. One of your wish list items? Peace
> 18. Where you grew up? Ohio
> 19. The last thing you did? ate
> 20. What are you wearing? capri's
> 21. Your TV? off
> 22. Your pet(s)? deceased
> 23. Your computer? here
> 24. Your life? stalled
> 25. Your mood? Depressed
> 26. Missing someone? jax
> 27. Your car? old
> 29. Favorite Store? qvc
> 30. Your summer? peacefull
> 31. Like someone? Yes
32. Your favorite color? green
> 33. When is the last time you laughed? am
> 34. Last time you cried? 6/14/08
> 35. Who will/would re-post this? michelle
> 36. Whose Answers are you anxious to see? Everyone
>
>
>
> Hugs And Kisses
>
>
>
>
>
>

Wednesday, June 04, 2008

A visit to Officeland II & BB

Well today was the first of my weekly visits to Officeland II and wouldn't you know Big Daddy was not there. I did run into Gracie who was kind enough to show me around the labyrinth. Everyone spoke so warmly and greeted me, some with hugs. Let's see how long that lasts when I finish my mission. I found myself in a large space but far away from any windows. Not much to look at as the mall across the street is under construction. One perk is that I was sitting near Rocky and she said that it was her son's 13th birthday. Wasn't a minute ago she talked about him starting school? Her infectious laughter could be heard around the end of the annex. LeLe asked me what was I dong there "I said looking for people" and she asked don't you have any friends in Office I? We shared a good laugh. Then she said you won't be making friends here with the work you do, more laughs. Someone had a voice that sounded so much like Klaus I kept thinking he was there. OK for a first day.

Seems that they already want to move me to another spot, can only hope its a better one for the inconvenience.

Rain, rain go away, wanted to go to see the Phillies, I mean Pat Burrell my fave. Actually I was hoping to see Ken Griffey Jr. hit his 600th homer. Oh, well, guess 5000 othe people had the same idea, sold out and Griffey's not scheduled to play if there is no rain delay.

Saturday, May 31, 2008

Love the sound of birds in the Morning...

Spring, my favorite time of year is rapidly turning to summer. The flowering trees of pear, plum and cherry have given way to iris, roses and dasies. The beauty of the trees that bloom is fleeting but worth every bit of the work. The garden has never looked better and I thought how I used to have BBQ's for Memorial Day. The weather this past weekend would have been perfect for just such an event.

Been so busy trying to put things in order that I haven't made time to sit and read emails, balance my checkbook or finish any of the novels that I've started. Did go to see Indiana Jones...and it was good. Looking forward to seeing the girls in "Sex in the City." especially if it rains this weekend.

I am planning to sell the house, despite the market slump, it will be OK as I am not trying to get rich. Just a fair market value and expenses will do. Hope it can get finished before the summer heatwave, frankly asap. This house is too much work for me. Hate to admit it. thanks to those who have pitched in now and then to help me.

Have to plan a 75th birthday for Mom as my sister lives out of town and my bro, well never mind. Any suggestions would be welcomed.

Seems life is moving at warp speed and I am in the slow lane. Freudian Slips author is in a movie soon to be release. Big Daddy is in LA, Merci is enjoying her new home. Granny moving to Fla. as is another couple I know who should have arrived yesterday. Not complaining the peace and quiet is good for my soul. Listening to the birds sing and enjoying this fresh coffee is a great way to start my day.

Keep a positive thought and as always live, love and laugh as much as possible.

Friday, March 28, 2008

What's Up?

It has been hard for me to write lately, talking not so much. Winter always leaves me feeling a little SAD and excercise does help. Chocolates seen more comforting and I am going to pay a price for that later today.

There have been many challenges and a few that I put in play myself. But on a voyage of self discovery you will hit a few icebergs along the way. There is nothing like the trip to authenticity however and you may learn that some acquaintances do not want a ticket. Some will wave from the shore. The greatest gift of any trip is to find that there are one or two who will be by your side when the water is rough and the ship is unsteady. With a good captain at the helm there will be sunshine after the rain clouds have passed. I feel blessed that there are a few shipmates out there and one or two who try to keep me on an even keel. I will not let my ship get turned around as I have gone past the point of no return and there is sunlight on the horizon.

Spring is my favorite time of year. I have gardening projects that I'd like to do if it is not too chilly this morning. Later its off to the doctor for a check up. Never mind if I go play in the dirt there will be no visit to Dr. Pat.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

SAG or No Sag

Well I've been trying to tell you about the spanish actor who would be respected in America one day, ever since I first saw "The Dancer Upstairs" in 2003. Conversations with Pax lead me to one of his finest performances to date in "Before night Falls." Since "The Sea Inside," I have not missed one of his films since, some are better that others, even I must admit. Naysayers be warned Javier Bardem is not just another pretty face. I waited anxiously for "Love in the time of Cholera," thinking it would be a blockbuster as the book was excellent. Maybe reading the book first is not such a good idea. But two movies released in one month, coincidence, I doubt it.

A few weeks ago the Screen Actors Guild named him as the best supporting actor for his role in "No country for old men." The entire cast was outstanding! It's worth the price of admission for the big screen effects, as I said in a previous blog. The SAG awards also found cause to credit Ms. Julie Christie for her performance in "Away from Her." Despite being in her sixties she looked beautiful and gracefull in her acceptance. There is a line about grace in this film that haunts my thoughts still. She says "what this situation needs is a little grace."

I am sure all the films nominated are good but these two were my faves....so far. There is much work to do before Zelda can print her list of Oscar contenders......

Tuesday, February 05, 2008

Faux Spring

Was today a beautiful day here in So. Joisey? There was sunshine warm temperatures and I just felt like wow, spring really is coming. First I noticed that it is no longer dark when I leave work anymore. 2. There was no need to wear a heavy coat. Ok, I'm still a bear to wake up in the morning, urgghh. Guess the season of hibernation and winter are not quite gone. But I'm happy while it lasts......

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Come on Springtime

There are fifty days till spring, give or take. right now I am happy every time the sun shines. How sad, i've had enough winter already. Finding it too cold to walk outdoors unless it is a necessity. How sad again? Forget about the cost of heating oil, I am considering a second job just for that. Where are my gardening catalogs? Seeing primroses and spring floweres forced into bloom in the Acme yesterday was uplifting. The flower show cannot be far off now.....can't wait, it's a burst of spring in the cold of a neverending winter season. I need winter to be over.....asap.
How do you ward off the ills of winter? Going to sunny florida seems out of the equation this year. Any suggestions?

I just visited the DMB site and they are promoting Willi Nelsosn's cover of "gravedigger." Check out clicks1.musictoday.com or DMB web site if you want tsee his version done in black and white. Very interesting since I've never been a fan of WN before.......humm. See what you think?

Sunday, January 13, 2008

You only have two feet.

While many of us are trying to carry out our newly made resolutions in this new year amidst ever rising challenges. I am going to make only one resolution and that is to do the best I can with what I have and be grateful.

Trying harder just seems to add to stress and there comes a point where enough is enough!
How much stuff do we need to collect? Is there a prize for collecting more stuff.
How big does our home have to be? Remember George Carlin said, we buy bigger homes to store more stuff.
How many shoes do I really need? My dad would laugh as he used to say "you only have two feet." How many books line my shelves that I have not read? CD's that I no longer listen to?
Are we going without any of our basic needs to servive? Food, clothing and shelter?

OK, so a few bills linger from the holidays, and basic services such as oil heat, electric and city sewage cost twice what it did a few years ago. I won't be going to the movies this week and there will be no new clothes this winter, boo hoo. We are blessed with many good things in our lives and that is something to be thankful for; such as: friends, family, and stablity that we are there for one another. Many places in the world cannot say that. Many are suffering from fires, floods, natural and unnatural disasters.

I ask myself what can I do to contribute to a better environment? to become a better friend and a more authentic person?
Seems that making resolutions are harder to avoid that we think, but as long as you enjoy and be grateful that might be the most important way to be happy. What if any changes are you planning for 2008? I am focusing on just having a happy year.