Bathtub Book Club

so it's been a while...

2010-06-05T19:52:00.001-05:00

blarg

Blanket O' Fun

2009-12-31T22:22:00.002-06:00

If you've been reading my blog for a bit, you've probably noticed that I volunteer for the Saint Louis Walk Now for Autism Speaks and shamelessly beg for donations to our walk team (still accepting funds, eligible for 2009 tax deductions for a couple more hours! HERE)

Recent prevalence studies indicate that 1 in 110 kids in the US are diagnosed on the autism spectrum. My 7 year old nephew is one of those kids, so I tried to think up something special for his Christmas present this year. I am told he is a whiz with the computer and other household electronics, loves Thomas the Tank Engine, and is as fascinated by tactile yummies as I am. (I, however, usually remember to ask before stroking somebody's arm because their shirt fabric is so scrumptious!)

I had the softest baby blanket in my gift closet, plus own an embroidery sewing machine, so starting on the top right is my nephew's name, with colorful crayons to accent. In the corner is a red STOP button:

My 'signature' is on the bottom right with "Love, Aunt Laura" and three 'Ants' with a yellow SLOW button:

I found a design of a small dragon on a computer, and it went on the top left with his nickname and a green GO button:

And on the bottom left are puzzle pieces, used often in promoting autism awareness and signifying that it is time to find the missing piece. The button in the corner of this one is a glass charm with waves of dark red:

If you follow those circle outlines in the above image, you will find this purchased RECYCLE symbol in plush green on green (of course!):

Along the bottom are strips of interesting fabrics: a super-plush sock (I got two pair and have the blue ones on now!), brown saddle leather, black pebbled leather, yellow butter-soft leather, and a silky faux-fur:

The reverse side of the blanket sports appliquéd medallions cut from Thomas and Friends fleece fabric:

This is a little pocket of palest blush pink "cameo" silk dupioni, a remnant of my wedding dress from this past May. The swirl motif and silver piping echo the tooth fairy pillows that I transformed for my nieces from their flower girl/ring-bearer pillows:

Finally, here is a scrap of the material from my sister Heather, aka Kyle's Mom'a, wedding dress. Super-soft double-sided silk satin with a store-bought rhinestone motif:

Kyle loves it, and I have gotten compliments from my sis and the autism specialist that helps with him. I briefly saw Kyle via Skype this past week, though he wouldn't talk to me (no surprise.) I was able to see my darling nieces this past spring when they flew in to be in my wedding, but Kyle stayed home with his dad as he does not travel well. Love you, big guy!

Peace, Hope, Love and Joy!

2009-12-24T22:17:00.000-06:00

The Baklava and Spanikopita are out of the oven and cooling. I am adding the final bows and such to the wrapped presents and look to be in bed by midnight!

Have a great holiday, even if you only celebrate it as a day off. Merry Christmas!

What Religion is Your Bra?

2009-12-19T20:55:00.000-06:00

What Religion is Your Bra?

A man walked into the ladies department of Myer's

and shyly walked up to

the woman behind the counter and said,

'I'd like to buy a bra for my wife. '

' What type of bra?'

asked the clerk.

'Type?' inquires the man, 'There's more than one type?'
' Look around,'

said the saleslady,

as she showed a sea of bras in every shape, size, colour

and material imaginable.

'Actually, even with all of this variety, there are really only four types of bras to choose from .'

Relieved, the man asked

about the types.

The saleslady replied:

'There are the Catholic,

the Salvation Army,

the Presbyterian,

and the Baptist types.

Which one would you prefer?'

Now totally befuddled,

the man asked about

the differences between them.

The Saleslady responded,

'It is all really quite simple.

The Catholic type supports the masses;
The Salvation Army type lifts the fallen;

The Presbyterian type keeps them staunch and upright;
The Baptist type makes mountains out of molehills.'

Have you ever wondered why A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, G, and H are the letters used

to define bra sizes?

If you have wondered why,

but couldn't figure out

what the letters stood for,

it is about time

you became informed!

(A} Almost Boobs...
{B} Barely there....
{C} Can't Complain!..
{D} Dang!...
{DD} Double dang!...
{E} Enormous!...
{F} Fake...
{G} Get a Reduction...
{H} Help me, I've fallen

and I can't get up!...

{I} I can't believe they actually make 'em in this size...

{J} Jeez Louise, enough already...

They forgot the Lutheran bra:

Holtzemfromfloppen

Okay, I admit I added the I and J, as those are the sized that I wear. Did you know they also do EE, GG, HH, etc. as a half size in-between?

Habitat for Humanity STL

2009-12-12T23:01:00.002-06:00

I had a great time at the Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis Volunteer Orientation this morning. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to work their first commercial De-Construction at an old Schnucks Grocery. I learned some good techniques from the veteran workers and it prodded me into finally getting a tool belt and steel-toed boots (Redwings which are the warmest, most comfortable winter weather shoes I now own.) My Christmas list this year was mostly hand tools I realized that I don't own, but would be useful on a build site - and in my own home!

Now I am ready to take on an actual build, whenever the schedule is posted, and depending on my employment situation. Today I learned that all 24 of the 2009 STL houses built are LEED certified at the Platinum level! Also, the new homeowners are not given the houses, they are provided loans at no interest and must put in a bunch of sweat equity, the hours equaling pretty much a down payment.

Hey Saint Louisans - are you interested in joining me on a build? Any former APO-ers (Alpha Phi Omega, national co-ed service fraternity) jonesing for a service project? Anybody in need of service hours? No construction experience needed, just the urge and orientation!

The next Volunteer Orientation is Saturday, January 9, 2010, 9:00am - 11:00am in the building attached to ReStore. I've mentioned ReStore before, as a wonderful place to pick up good used appliances and materials, along with new stuff from construction overruns or overstock from retailers and manufacturers. A bargain for homeowners and a wonderful resource for art or craft projects.

Hello, Redbud

2009-12-08T10:47:00.001-06:00

Last week some mysterious lime-green circles appeared on the sidewalk easements in my neighborhood. Then some wooden stakes sprouted out of the circles. Finally, yesterday the City of Richmond Heights came around with a trailer full of trees and played Johnny Appleseed. Welcome to our lawn, little Redbud!

NaBloPo...wait, we're all done with that

2009-12-02T20:09:00.002-06:00

Back from my day of rest after the 30 days of my first attempt (success!) at NaBloPoMo. Now what do I write about?

With a hard freeze coming, I have been weatherizing the house: putting away the hoses, turning off the outdoor spigots, draining the rain barrel. I've also been adding weatherstripping to many of the main floor windows, as I've already bought the supplies, and any energy we can save before we spring for new high-e windows in money in the pocket. Actually, money to the bank to pay for the new furnace!

I also balanced the accounts in Quicken, which I bought yesterday at Best Buy for only $39 (instead of $59). I had done this for almost a year 3 years back, but couldn't recover that file. I like keeping an eye on all the accounts, and knowing where the money is going.

Till next time,
Laura

NaBloPoMo Day XXX: Made it! - 30 days and 6 months

2009-11-30T21:55:00.000-06:00

Today is the final day of NaBloPoMo: National Blog Posting Month, and I survived posting every single day in November! Yay! And here are the badges to prove it:

And here are some previous years' participant badges that are entertaining:

Finally,

Happy 6 month Anniversary, Hubby!

NaBloPoMo Day XXVIV: Prop 8

2009-11-29T11:41:00.001-06:00

A change from my recent posts, to a serious legal/political issue on my mind:

Prop 8, or the California Marriage Protection Act, is being challenged in federal court in January and could have nation-wide consequences.

My personal view? Legalize marriages between people of the same gender. If a church or religious organization is not comfortable with that, don't make them perform the ceremony, but allow other churches and civil authorities to proceed. This may open those objecting organizations to discrimination suits, but I believe it is their right to object, just as it is gay peoples' right to get married.

Simple enough, right? Why can't we all just get along!

NaBloPoMo Day XXVIII: Makin' a List...

2009-11-28T22:11:00.000-06:00

'Tis high holy shopping season, and it has me thinking about what items I put on my list, and what I want my gifts to others to say about me.

Most of the items I actually put on the list I sent to family were either tools or kitchen-related. I did some research on each and included links and some prices. I tried for Made in USA and eco-friendly whenever possible. The tools I use to make our house more a home, and the kitchen is the heart of the home. After doing some volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, I realized that my toolbox (still need one of those!) is missing a few key items.

The items I am getting/making for others are reflecting price shopping and usability instead of the sustainability and US craftsmanship I strive towards. Maybe next year when the budget isn't already stretched. Sorry I can't be more specific, but you never know who is reading!

Finally, here are my pie-in-the-sky wish list items that didn't make it on the Christmas list:
-Upgrade of my Bernina Embroidery Software
-Sooner-rather-than-later: Replace crumbling front porch stairs for safety reasons, and replace walkway to sidewalk and add walkway to driveway (so I stop slipping down the lawn when I go to my car)
-Rotating compost bin, because it would be very useful for yard stuff and kitchen waste (elevated, so that none of those wiggly things I am phobic about can invade)
-A new flat TV, in the 42 to 50" range and hopefully energy efficient
-A console table to put said TV upon, along with places for all of the peripherals
-Sooner-rather-than-later: New windows on the main floor of the house (currently original 1920's with later ugly aluminum storm windows, all of which leak like sieves)
-A second rain barrel, to go in the front of the house for watering plants so decorative this time

-The kitchen stuff has its own list:

+cabinets that are not white & so show every speck of anything spilled
+oven that is big enough to fit a half sheet pan - really became obvious when Thanksgiving dinner was 2 hours late, 'cause I couldn't fit enough stuff in
+range that heats more evenly than the old electric one, and is easier to keep clean
more pantry room
+no more holy sheet vinyl or linoleum or whatever that atrocity is -bamboo or cork, please!
+quartz or concrete (with recycled glass) counter tops, as the current laminate stains too easy and the cracks are ugly and dirty, no matter how I scrub
+tile backsplash instead of the cutesy wallpaper
+Dishwasher that doesn't leak out the sides and will fit the larger dishes

-Our triangle-shaped Jacuzzi tub was a big selling point of the house, but I wish it were a bit smaller, so would not use the entire water heater supply when it is cold, saving natural gas and water usage
-A mp3 player hookup in my car. Maybe I need to take a look at the Ford Fusion Hybrid...

NaBloPoMo Day XXVII: T-day dinner plus 27 hours & still recovering

2009-11-27T22:05:00.000-06:00

Didn't do much today. Brain still recovering from the L. Tryptophan and body still recovering from cooking and cleaning all day yesterday. I did a bit of Black Friday shopping...from right here at my computer. I am not determined (ahem-crazy) enough to brave the crowds today. My frustration level and hurting body could not cope with that.

So instead I read, surfed the internet, communicated with some family, took a bath, and watched the boob tube. Specifically, Dirty Jobs (and one of my TV boyfriends, Mike Rowe.) He ended the episode "Safety Third" (about individual responsibility in a dangerous world) with a quote from Theodore Roosevelt to his son:

The things that will destroy America are prosperity at any price, peace at any price, safety first instead of duty first, the love of soft living and the get rich quick theory of life.

blarg

NaBloPoMo Day XXVI: T-day dinner plus 3 hours

2009-11-26T21:11:00.000-06:00

Family just left, one more load of dishes to wash, but I'm getting a bath first. As soon as the hot water heater fills again.

Too tired for much else. Everything turned out great, though had to do a last minute brussel sprout substitute for green beans that went fuzzy. Gonna go put my feet up and start mentally composing tomorrow's post.

Happy Thanksgiving!

NaBloPoMo Day XXV: T-day dinner minus 16.5 hours

2009-11-25T23:38:00.001-06:00

The turkey is in the brine!

Anybody that has attended a major event with me knows that I make lists and try to prepare for any disruptions with a contingency plan. T-day is no different. I spent the last hour calculating how much prep and execution time each step of each recipe required. Then I lined them up to make the best use of time. Now I am off to bed, because I actually have to set alarm and get up earlier than usual tomorrow. Amazing how your body clock resets when you are unemployed!

Bread crumbs for stuffing becoming croutons?

Check.

Starting with the pan, clockwise: sausage drippings for the roux, stuffing wet stuff, eggs for stuffing, dough for apple tartlets, giblets, butt & neck, freshly squeezed lemon juice, kitty food from stock discards, dinner rolls, butter rub for turkey, stock?

Yeppers.

Temporary prep table with cat-safe foods (like veggies), roasting pan and v-rack ready & waiting, salad spinner for cleaning veggies, pile of fruits, apron?

Ready and waiting for me in 9 hours.
Off to bed now, but first a soak in a tub brimming with salts and aromatics...ummm...gobble gobble!

NaBloPoMo Day XXIV: T-day minus 2 days

2009-11-24T22:31:00.000-06:00

Turkey stock: check

Homemade dinner rolls: in the fridge for a long 1 1/2 day rise

Rustic Apple Tartlets: crust is ready to roll out and be topped & baked

Stuffing:
a) sausage is browned, celery, onions, carrots & apples are sauteed, pan was deglazed with sherry and is now in the fridge
b) challah and hearty white bread cubed and drying in no-heat oven

Groceries: all purchased

Flowers: lovely!

House: was pretty clean, but items 1-5 above have made it a mess once again! Off to soak in tub with good book (Bite Marks, a Jaz Parks novel by Jennifer Rardin) and candles, then to bed. Night, night!

NaBloPoMo Day XXIII: Thanksgiving Day Menu

2009-11-23T23:28:00.000-06:00

Appetizers - Cousin Rachelle is taking care of this, and no clue!

Cocktails - I have Asti and sparkling grape juice to be poured over fresh pomegranates & cranberry-pomegranate juice.

Turkey - pick up on Wednesday from Seibert Meats in Soulard. Brine overnight, then get up early to rinse, pat dry and air dry in the fridge before heading into the oven - makes a nice crisp crust and moist meat. Only a 12-14 pound bird, as it will be me & hubby, Ma & Pa, Aunt Jan, Cousin Rachelle & her boyfriend Kris. We have room for one more at the table, if anybody is hungry. We could also set up a kiddie table if a bunch of you are interested.

Gravy - I started a turkey neck (from Souldard) & veggie stock, now in the fridge, ready for makin' gravy! Will make a roux and generally follow Cooks Illustrated instructions (hereafter known as CI.)

Sausage & Apple Stuffing - an amalgamation of my MIL's recipe, my best friend's mother's recipe, and CI.

Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes - This version is less fat than the classic mashed 'taters. Last time I made it to go with Christmas Prime Rib and included leeks. Credit: CI

Roasted Sweet Potatoes - I've been making single servings of this by peeling the sweet potato, cutting into 1/2" dice, tossing with EVOO, kosher salt & fresh cracked black pepper and roasting until the edges are Carmelina. Drizzle just the slightest bit of real maple syrup, and you have a wonderful alternative to the version that is mashed & smothered with marshmallow goo.

Sauteed Green Beans with garlic & herbs - a lighter alternative to the traditional green bean casserole (which I personally can't stand, even though I was raised Lutheran!) Credit: CI

Dinner Rolls - one component that is actually better prepared ahead and stored in the fridge. I'll take them out in the morning to let rise 6-8 hours, then pop in the oven for that wonderful yeasty aroma. Credit: CI.

Cranberry Relish - Mum is taking care of this one, from a recipe she begged off of ??? (completely slipped my mind at the moment.) I will have a can of the gloppy stuff on standby, if anybody insists.

Pumpkin Cheesecake - Cuz Rachelle is preparing this one, and I am very excited, as I came close to choosing to make it myself!

Rustic Apple Tartlets - Another CI recipe I have used in the past, to great success. I starting the crust this evening, as it will keep, wrapped well, in the fridge for a few days.

Whipped Cream with a hint of orange zest - To top the tartlets (or the cheesecake, or coffee)

Decaf Coffee - my favorite coffee place, Foundation Grounds in Maplewood, carries Goshen Coffee Company - 100% organic and sustainable farmed. Current favorite: Venezuelan.

NaBloPoMo Day XXII: Supervillains vs.Vampires!

2009-11-22T22:34:00.001-06:00

My fingers are already casualties of Thanksgiving dinner prep (a couple of small burns, no amputated fingers or bleeding cuts...so far!) so I bring to you my argument why supervillains are so much cooler than vampires: Dr. Horrible. He looks like the guy that sat next to you in science class that was good enough to copy off of, knows how to do his own laundry and the songs are very catchy. Vampires? Blood, coffins and they're never around in the daytime. Now go!

NaBloPoMo Day XXI: Farmers' markets

2009-11-21T20:45:00.001-06:00

I woke this morning determined to hit the local farmers' market to try and find purveyors of local and/or organic produce.

After filling up my travel mug with coffee from Foundation Grounds in Maplewood ( I was waylaid and had to try a new baked goodie: Blueberry & Lavender cheesecake -- yum!) I walked down the street to :

Maplewood Farmers' Market at Schlafly Bottleworks. I got some yummy locally grown granny smith apples and some sweet looking sweet potatoes (they had real dirt on them!) but I think I overpaid. I had lots more on my list, so headed to:

Kirkwood Farmers' Market had very little, as they kicked off their Chrismas Market & Holiday Walk.

<-- So instead of this

It was this -->

And this:

So I finally headed to Historic Soulard Market and struck gold. First, I found parking within a block. Next I walked through most of it, scouting prices and availability.

I picked out 3 calla lily blooms and 6 spikey red/green things and a bunch of small white/red flowers. Of course I asked the names of each, but promptly forgot them.

All of the fruit & veggies for Thanksgiving dinner are purchased. I found fresh pork sausage for the stuffing and turkey necks for a stock I will start tomorrow.

My turkey dilemma is solved! I ordered a 12-14 pounder from a poultry booth who gets them from a farmer in Illinois. I will pick up on Wednesday, then prep and start the brining.

All I have left are a few things from the grocery store, and then --oh yeah-- all the cooking and prepping!

NaBloPoMo Day XX: Gobble, gobble

2009-11-20T19:48:00.000-06:00

So.

Let's talk turkey.

The last (and only time) I cooked at turkey, I think I had a national brand mammoth. I have no great memories of it, but no horror stories, either. Thanksgiving for my side of the family is at my house this year, and I have been contemplating the poultry. I would love to find a fresh turkey from a local farm, but that is looking unlikely at this late point. But at $3+ per pound, can I really justify it versus a 57¢ per pound conglomerate-grown hen?

I've been doing a bit of research, and have found places that offer "heritage" turkeys that are closer to wild than the lab-modified triple-D cup turkeys that are available at the major grocery stores. (See, Dave - I did work boobies into the conversation, though anybody that knows me know that I scoff at a DDD being considered large!)

I have a $1.99/pound turkey reserved from Baumann's Fine Meats, but I have been told that it is an Arkansas bird, and not particularly heritage or free-range, or anything special. Should I just pick up the cheapy at Schnucks? Shoudl I spend $2.99/pound for the free-range one from Whole Foods?

Maybe I should just give up at cook a nice ham, as I don't even really like turkey!

NaBloPoMo Day XIX: Windows are the eyes of the home

2009-11-19T22:32:00.000-06:00

So, does anybody in STL have recommendations on where to get good replacement windows for a 1920's brick bungalow? Preferably a company with good customer service & prices?

NaBloPoMo Day XVIII: Utilikilts are stalking me

2009-11-18T20:57:00.002-06:00

Utilikilts are following me. Averaging once a week for the past month or two, I have talked to someone in a utilikilt, seen somebody wearing one, or had it mentioned by a friend that he was wearing one.

What are Utilikilts, you ask? The Utilikilts Company is "committed to pioneering a comfortable alternative to trousers by producing “Men’s Unbifurcated Garments” (MUG’s)." Think kilts are just girls' skirts fit for guys? Nope. Looking at the website, they are tailored for length and waist like male clothing. Kinda like an historic Celtic kilt, but with modern twists. Check out the Mockumercials on their main page. An excellent way to waste some time.

Warning. If you are too bow-legged or scrawny, these are not the garments for you! To all other men, I urge them towards "Freedom!"

For hitting the links or heading to the office:

For dressing up or bundling up:

When and where do you wear yours?

NaBloPoMo Day XVII: Do you want to date my avatar?

2009-11-17T23:39:00.003-06:00

If you are any flavor of gamer - rpg, computer, even larp - you should enjoy this one:

<a href="http://videoguide.msn.com/play/?g=601e493a-9f80-4d4e-ad8c-62962c3c5add" target="_new" title="The Guild: "Do You Want To Date My Avatar?"">Video: The Guild: "Do You Want To Date My Avatar?"</a>

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY FELICIA DAY AND JED WHEDON

And if you haven't seen the web series "The Guild", discover all three seasons here: The Guild.

If the main character looks familiar, Felicia Day is Penny in "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog" (co-starring Nathan Fillion (completely makes the ABC show Castle!) & Neil Patrick Harris, (favorite super-villain!) by Joss Whedon) and is the redhead in Sear's Blue Crew commercials.

Along these lines, my hubby recommends Legend of Neil, though it is definitely NSFW. Then again that's Dave's kind of humor. Felicia Day plays the Fairy.

LYRICS:
Hang with me in my MMO
So many places we can go
You’ll never see my actual face
Our love, our love will be in a virtual space

I’m craving to emote with you
So many animations I can do
Be anything you want me to be
Come on, come on, share a potion with me

CHORUS:
Do you wanna date my Avatar
She’s a star
And she’s hotter than reality by far
Wanna date my Avatar?

You can type commands
I’ve got slots for what I hold in my hands
Don’t care what’s in your character bank
How ‘bout, How ‘bout a little tank and spank

Grab your mouse and stroke the keys
Here in cyberspace there’s no disease
Pick a time, send a tell to me
Just pay, just pay a small subscription fee

CHORUS

Single white human,
Looking for group
My stats so high
Don’t be out of the loop

Got an uber-leet staff
That you can equip
Close your mouths ladies
This is pure nerd-nip

I’m a pixel-based fantasy
A man who is stoic
I hack and slash
Who the heck’s more heroic?

Check me out:
Cloth armor
Fits me like a glove
Just twitta a time
And I’m ready for love

Hang with me in my MMO
So many places we can go
I’m better than a real world quest
You’ll touch, my plus 5 to dexterity vest

What role do you wanna play
I’m just a click away night or day
And if you think I’m not the one
Log off, Log off and we’ll be done

NaBloPoMo Day XVI: It is not Christmas season!

2009-11-16T23:47:00.000-06:00

I think it is a crime that radio stations have already been playing Christmas songs, I believe since Halloween. Starting at Thanksgiving, I believe is acceptable as the start of of the holiday season, but still pushing it. When I was a kid, it didn't really kick of until St. Nicholas Day on December 6th. But then, we celebrated the 12 days of Christmas, with a larger gift on the first couple of days, then smaller gifts such as undies & socks with a puzzle book or pack of gum for the rest.

Folks, lay off the !@#$% Holiday Cheer. 'Kay?

NaBloPoMo Day XV: las semillas de calabaza

2009-11-15T00:10:00.000-06:00

Mexican-Spiced Pumpkin Seeds

Adapted from:

About 2 cups raw pumpkin seeds (I had seeds fresh from a small pumpkin. As they were still wet, they took a bit longer to toast.)

Mexican Spice Mix

1 tbsp granulated sugar

1 tsp kosher salt

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground cumin (I toasted 1/2 tsp whole seed then ground myself)

1/4 tsp ground coriander

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

Simple Glaze

2 tbsp water

1 tsp brown sugar (light or dark)

1 tbsp unsalted butter

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Line rimmed cookie sheet with parchment paper and spread pumpkin seeds in even layer. Toast until fragrant and color deepens slightly, about 4 minutes. Transfer cookie sheet with nuts to wire rack.

2. For the spice mix: While seeds are toasting, stir together sugar, salt, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, cayenne, and garlic powder in medium bowl; set aside. I used a plastic storage container shook to mix.

3. For the glaze: Bring water, brown sugar, and butter to boil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat, whisking constantly. Stir in toasted seeds and cook, stirring constantly with wooden spoon, until seeds are shiny and almost all liquid has evaporated, about 1½ minutes.

4. Transfer glazed seeds to bowl with spice mix; toss well to coat. Return glazed and spiced seeds to parchment-lined cookie sheet to cool (can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days). Transferring to plastic storage container with spice mix, you can shake to coat, then cool for a few minutes and return to container!

Yummy! Would be muy bueno with una cerveza or mexican hot chocolate like Abuelita!

NaBloPoMo Day XIV: Evelyn & the Pirate

2009-11-14T22:27:00.000-06:00

Here is Evelyn pitching a fit:

This is big brother Ragavan the Pirate:

Do you have a "pirate" in you family? I brought him this book last week, and he loves it!

Aunt Laura:

NaBloPoMo Day XIII: Welcome little Evelyn!

2009-11-13T21:33:00.000-06:00

My best friend had a baby girl this morning, so I am an honorary aunt again!

Evelyn Muralidharan was born 4:58 am on Friday, November 13, 2009 at 7 lbs, 7 oz. Mother and baby are both great. Daddy almost had a heart attack with the stress, but she was in the hospital at about midnight and delivered less than five hours later.

As soon as I have pictures, I will post.... In the meantime, here is my most recent picture of Andi, smiling knowingly at the camera as she stood up for me at my wedding.

NaBloPoMo Day XII: So where are YOU sleeping tonight?

2009-11-12T22:10:00.000-06:00

I had the realization recently that the mattresses we sleep on are twice hand-me-downs. My older sister purchased for an apartment well over a decade ago and passed them along to my younger sister. I took over the house my younger sister lived in maybe eight years ago. We moved to this house 3 years ago and took them with. In short, our mattresses are...

wait for it...

...TOAST!

And now words like fibromyalgia are being thrown around, and I am being tested for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Vitamin D deficiency. Could it all be as simple as getting a new place to lay my weary head?

When making a big purchase, I like to do my research and get the opinion of others. So, where are YOU sleeping tonight? I like the idea of the Sleep Number bed, especially the dual-control one (the dual-control heated mattress pad may be the key to our relationship.) What do you like or dislike about what you sleep upon?

I don't sleep great in hotels, so I can't go by what they have installed. Going into a mattress store, you lay down for a few minutes, in a less-than natural position and you're supposed to make a major purchase based on that?! What happens if you get it home, they haul away your old mattresses, and you HATE it?
Can you really return it?
What do you sleep on then?
I really would appreciate any real feedback!

NaBloPoMo Day XI: blarg.

2009-11-11T20:24:00.002-06:00

blarg.

Having no set topic upon which to blog, I am finding inspiration in the placeholder text I use for formatting my blog: blarg. My hubby uses it often. Many times as a salutation to start an im. At other times an expression of general boredom. He even used it when he named his blog.
Given all of this, here are the definitions according to the Urban Dictionary.

Blarg is a unique word, being the only word that not only means anything you want it to, or is used to show disinterest or boredom, but also is the only word that thousands upon thousands of people have claimed to have made up but has been around since man discovered they could use tools. Hobo Dave and Raymond Donn are amongst those who claim to have created the word, as well as some wierd dude called John who worked in the Games Workshop in Falkirk. I have also been known to use the word frequently in the past. I suppose, the true use of this word is to fill a gap in a sentence where appropriate. If a stoned person says "blarg", it is usually used to replace a word they cannot think of, or which they have forgotten

Blarg yer maw!!
Blarg tae aw da yids and swankers! (Hobo dave)
...Blarg man...

A word used in Red vs. Blue from Rooster Teeth Productions. The word was said by the great destroyer, an alien named crunchbite. The name was later changed to fluffy. The alien that only loves.

Caboose: I think I will call him "crunchbite".

Andy: Ahhh, that’s a stupid name.

Caboose: Ahh, well, I think its better than your suggestion, crunchbite is---.

Church: Caboose, who are you talking to---Holy Shit!

Crunchbite: blarg!

1. A sigh of complete angst/depression.
2. A sigh of boredom

1. Blarg, someone in heaven created me only to laugh at my misery...
2. Wow, I am so bored...blarg...

While it is almost impossible to decipher one true and absolute meaning for Blarg, there is a basic understanding of it's fundamental implementations:
1) An utterance of complete bafflement (as noted many times the author of such bafflement may remain speechless with only the word "blarg" comprehensive for some amount of time)
see also: confuzlement
2) A vocalization of complete disgust. A short pantomime of a vomiting sound. In this case you might want to draw the "blarg" out more to sound like a more authentic vomiting sound.
3) A short sigh expressing sadness and frustration in the same instant.

A] What's that you say? Kathy Bates fully nude, awesome!
B] blarg!

The word blarg has no concrete or absolute meaning. Its meaning is derived all from how you say it and in what mood you say it. If you say it depressedly in a low, melancholy tone, it is synonymous with a sigh or expression of sadness. If it's said in an apathetic tone, it means you're in a state of ennui. If you say it in a rageful voice, it is an expletive, etc. etc.

After setting yourself on fire: BLARG!!!
Bored: Blarg. (said in soft, monotone)
Pissed: BLAAAARG!!!!
Elated: Blarg! (In happy voice)

1. Originally an expression of angst or confusion.
2. Sometimes also used as an expletive.
3. Has also been used as a universal word in place of any other word.
4. In some circles, Blarg has taken the upon the meaning of Nay, or No.

All those in favor say Shoosh! Those opposed say Blarg.
This is all Blarg" "All I have to say is, Blarg!

From the popular online series Red vs. Blue: Blarg means "yes"

Alien, does blarg mean yes?
Blarg
See, I told you blarg means yes.

An expression used just before ones life is removed from ones body

BLARG, you stabbed me! I dead!

1. A combination of "blah" and "argh," generally used to describe boredom or frustration.
2. Boredom to the extreme of physical pain.
The single greatest word in the history of the universe. Incredibly versatile, can be used in nearly any situation. Also, the exact opposite of hingo.

Blarg! That was awesome!
Awww, blarg, that was terrible.
Blarg is good.

Adv: 1. Yes, 2. No
Honk Blarg, blarg blarg honk.

And this goes on for SEVEN pages.

Welcome to the world of blarg.

NaBloPoMo Day X: Now we're cookin'

2009-11-10T20:06:00.000-06:00

I just finished watching two DVR'd episodes of Iron Chef America and it got me thinking about food shows. Food shows are every where these days. Rachel Ray has enough shows to have her own network and is now on daytime network tv. Leno has celebrity chefs on to poke fun at food. PBS has been long time home to Saturday cooking shows among the home and garden fare. The travel channel has five food shows that I counted. Even Julia Childs was recently featured in a movie starring Meryl Streep. And last but not least, Food Network: all food, all day.

Lots of entertainment and inspiration available in all this, but the two shows I turn to most when I want to actually cook something edible are America's Test Kitchen and Good Eats.

Before dish tv, all I had was network tv and America's Test Kitchen. From their website:

"Each episode features recipes we've carefully developed to make sure they work every time. Christopher Kimball and the test cooks solve everyday cooking problems, test equipment so you never have to waste money on things that don't work, and taste supermarket ingredients to save you time in the store. It's a common-sense, practical approach you won't find on other cooking shows."

I liked the premise and started subscribing to the magazine behind the show, Cook's Illustrated. I enjoyed the magazines but have now switched to a web subscription, which gives me access to all of the articles, recipes, reviews, tastings, etc. They are my #1 go-to site for recipes, even if I know I have it in a magazine somewhere. My most-used "cookbook" is mostly their recipes printed out and in sheet protectors in a binder. Christmas dinner the past two years has turned out great the past two years, and I'm depending on them for Thanksgiving this year, too. Many of our wedding registry items and my Christmas present lists have been based on their recommendations.

Also on the cerebral side of cooking shows is Alton Brown's Good Eats. Alton (he pronounces AL-ton, not All-ton like the nearby town) is a wonderfully geeky guy that likes to explain how things work, and why foods behave as they do. I find this gives me a better understanding of the chemistry at work in food, which makes me a better improv cook instead of just having to follow a recipe. I've used his recipes and techniques, and like that the FN website has recipe ratings and reviews.

His rants about the evil of "unitaskers", and does not allow any in his kitchen except the fire extinguisher. I certainly take that into account when I kitchen shop!

Alton brings his obscure food trivia and dry wit to Kitchen Stadium as Iron Chef America's host/commentator. That brings up back to the beginning of this post and where I find my food inspiration. Where do you find yours?

NaBloPoMo Day IX: Thought for the day

2009-11-09T22:39:00.001-06:00

Whatever you give a woman, she'll make greater. If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby, Give her a house, she'll give you a home. Give her groceries, she'll give you a meal. Give her a smile, she'll give you her heart. She multiplies & enlarges what she is given so if you give her any crap, be ready to receive a ton of shit.

Credit goes to my Uncle Bob, via Cousin Kristine on FB, but he probably found it out somewhere on the world wide web. Her FIL had this comment: "The really interesting thing is that a woman can make your penis greater too and that driving force is so powerful that most men are willing to put up with the ton of shit."

Ponder that, folks. Good night!

NaBloPoMo Day VIII: Brought to you by the letter S and the number 40

2009-11-08T20:12:00.004-06:00

This week is the 40th anniversary of PBS's Sesame Street. I have wonderful memories of this show, and it still looks to be a hit with the kids. This video of songs from 1969 to 2004 should bring back some memories:

I love that Google dedicated a week of Doodles to fun depictions of favorite characters.

November 4th: To kick things off (so to speak) is, of course, Big Bird.

November 5th: Everybody's favorite monster, Cookie Monster! I have a poster on the side of my fridge with the big blue guy holding a couple of chocolate chip cookies in one hand, his head held in the other asking, "Got Milk?" My sister put the first one up and some very special friends replaced it when it tore.

November 6th: Best friends Bert & Ernie. These days some people construe their relationship as homosexual, but that is not what kids think of when they see Ernie up to his hijinx and Bert all worried about something. It is more about getting along with someone different from you, I think.

November 7th: Oscar the Grouch is a lovable curmudgeon, whose heart of gold shines through when his friends need it. When I was really tiny, my folks dressed me up for a Sesame Street event in green footed pjs and carried me around in a trashcan!

November 8th: Elmo was just being introduced when I started to outgrow Sesame Street, so I feel like 'I knew him when', before he had his own segment and Tickle-Me dolls.

November 9th: Edited to add, as the Sesame Street goodness is not yet over. Cannot forget the Count! Below I have his Lullabye four your enjoyment.

November 10th: Edited again to add The Grand Finale!

I end with the words to the Sesame Street Theme Song:

Sunny Day
Sweepin' the clouds away
On my way to where the air is sweet

Can you tell me how to get,
How to get to Sesame Street

Come and play
Everything's A-OK
Friendly neighbors there
That's where we meet

Can you tell me how to get
How to get to Sesame Street

It's a magic carpet ride
Every door will open wide
To happy people like you--
Happy people like
What a beautiful

Sunny Day
Sweepin' the clouds away
On my way to where the air is sweet

Can you tell me how to get,
How to get to Sesame Street...

How to get to Sesame Street

How to get to...

NaBloPoMo Day VII: Trivial matters

2009-11-07T23:58:00.001-06:00

I am so stock full of random trivial knowledge, why isn't it ever something that will actually gain me anything?

I just got back from a trivia night fundraiser for the Hillsboro High School Scholarship, invited by a friend that is a graduate. Having nothing else on my calendar, and interested in a bit of a brain challenge, I agreed. Well, we placed in the top quartile; fifth out of 20, though there were a few questions/answers to which we took exception.

Note: if you ever go to trivia in Jefferson County, make sure you have somebody that knows country music!

That is all for now. Must rest my weary brain, as each sentence is taking too many corrections to spelling, typing and thinking errors.

NaBloPoMo Day VI: Help, I've Fallen...

2009-11-06T21:12:00.001-06:00

Owwww.

I am such a klutz sometimes. Last week I fell up the stairs with an armload of stuff so couldn't catch myself and ended up with a nicely bruised left knee and a really ugly - I mean blue/black before it turned purple ugly - bruise on my outer left thigh. It is finally fading away and I go and step on a sweetgum ball and fall, skinning my right knee, tearing a hole through a new pair of pants, and 4 hours later my left hip is telling me that I won't be up for walking much tomorrow. As I said, klutz.

Even in a couple hours of blowing/raking up leaves, I didn't fall (I don't think an almost-trip that only minorly wrenched my ankle counts) but when I was locking up the shed after I got back home, bam. I was down on the ground and staring up at the lovely colors of the sweetgum tree.

It doesn't help that my joints, especially my lower legs, have been paining me enough that my doctor had blood drawn to test for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Vitamin D deficiency and a few other things. Results are not in yet, but that was the most blood I've had drawn, other than by the Red Cross. Let's keep our fingers crossed that it is the Vitamin D deficiency (I am pale as a ghost and wear at least SPF 55 sunscreen every day) as that is the easiest to deal with

NaBloPoMo Day V: Stay tuned...

2009-11-05T20:31:00.003-06:00

I have a bunch of great posts in mind for this month, but I am either waiting on pictures, waiting for it to be installed, or waiting until I have the time and patience to upload photos and hyperlinks and proofread, and do all the things that should be included in a good post. Instead, I am copying my to-do list, as I only got partway through the top thing today. Ugh. Thankfully, the next two days should be nice weather and I should be able to complete 1 through 3.

My to-do list

Finish sanding back deck
Brush off/rinse deck and let dry
Apply sealant to deck
Install balusters on deck
Install second soaker hose for hydrangea garden before covering with mulch for the winter
Reinstall first soaker hose to allow for new plants and cover with mulch for winter
Grade pathway between hydrangea garden and Missouri Native Plant Rain Garden for path
Measure, cut & attach longer drainpipe for rain garden
Install path fence for rain garden and fill with pebbles
If at any time freezing is imminent, bring in rest of hothouse plants
Plant rest of bulbs
Bad weather options:

clean house
finish converting flower girl pillows into tooth fairy pillows
research Christmas presents
always paperwork to be filed, bills to be paid, etc.

HVAC installation: one of these days Hoffman Brothers will be scheduling installation of our solar panel for our heat pump and they will also be re-ducting some areas for better air flow. More about this project after finalized
Front yard concrete - finalize designs so that once we have income once again, we can get this taken care of before the front stairs crumble
FIND A JOB!!!

Edited to add:

Rake/vacuum/somehow deal with the blanket of leaves & prickly little balls from our neighbor's giant sweet gum tree.
Prep for Thanksgiving at our house
Winterize the windows with that magic hairdryer film, caulk, tape, foam or a combination of the aforementioned
Loose weight
Paint the upstairs bathroom
Patch the drywall in the laundry room and cover the dryer vent that let in the birds last winter that built the nest that caused condensation to back up in the dryer vent which led us to replace by cutting a hole in said drywall

NaBloPoMo Day IV: Be vewy, vewy quiet. I'm huntin' wabbits--I mean job hunting

2009-11-04T21:34:00.001-06:00

Last night after I blogged day iii, I went to enjoy a nice long soak in my jacuzzi tub (big selling point of the house) with a good book (Robert Jordan's posthumous finale of the Wheel of Time series, part 1 of 3.) It was nice. For about 10 minutes. Then, my brain started composing a cover letter for a job posting that I had flagged earlier in the day. Stoopit brain wouldn't understand that this was my wind-down time, and to let go and immerse itself in the story. I tried for another 5 minutes (my bath times usually stretch toward the 1 hour mark,) and finally gave in and got out.

Almost two hours later, I head to bed after uploading my resume, filling out the rest of the application and saying goodnight to hubby. A half hour later, I am back downstairs at the computer tweaking a few answers and concatenating a cover letter with the earlier resume, as they did not have a place for a cover letter, and this application is just far enough outside my job experience for one to be useful. I uploaded the new resume combo, logged out and went back to bed. This time, after only 15 minutes of reading my brain was ready for some REMs and consented to sleep.

This was only one application but shows the anxiety and stress that goes with the job hunt. I take only small comfort that there are lots of people in my same situation, because they are out there competing for jobs, too. To all others out there unemployed, my condolences and sympathies, but outta my way you wascally wabbit!

test

2009-11-03T21:37:00.002-06:00

blarg

NaBloPoMo Day III: Chili

2009-11-03T20:33:00.010-06:00

Inspired by FluidPudding's post on putting "the meat-free thing on hold when it comes to chili".Here is the current framework for my chili recipe. Warning: subject to change based on mood, supplies, moon phase!

First, I sneak in some vegetabley goodness by sweating/sauteing onion, carrot and celery, & garlic at the end. Set aside.

Trim chuck steak very lean and into 1" chunks. Salt & pepper then sear in dutch oven with vegetable oil. Work in small enough batches that searing does not become steaming.

Set aside and brown lean ground beef, ground turkey, sausage, your pick.
Remove from pan and deglaze with sherry or beef broth (I prefer Swansons low-sodium broth or their beef stock.) After reducing till very thick, add beef or chicken broth along with vegetables set aside earlier.

Using immersion blender, work until smooth. If your family doesn't like lots of tomato chunks, add a can of crushed tomatoes (Muir Glen Organic Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes are wonderful, or Red Gold) before blending.
Add meat back in, along with a can of kidney beans, black beans, and/or Bush's Chili Magic Chili Starter and another can of tomatoes.

Toast cumin seeds and pulverize in spice grinder. Add to pot, along with ancho chilies in adobo (minced) or ancho chilie powder, chipotle chilie powder, adobo (if these are not in your spice rack, try Penzey's Spices) a bit of black pepper, a dash of Franks Red Hot Sauce, oregono, thyme, kosher salt, and chopped onion (I prefer vidalia or sweet at this point).

If you are feeling adventurous, add a bit of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and if you are really wild and crazy, a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder.

Let cook at low temperature for a few hours and the beef will be fall-apart tender.

A dish of corn bread or corn pudding is called for. My favorite is a package of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix. Mix according to directions, adding about a 1/3 can of sweet corn (drained) and topped with hot pepper cheese before popping in the oven.

Serve chili with garnishes such as sour cream (mellows the heat for those that have a sensitive palette,) the remaining drained corn, leftover sweet onion (chopped), lime wedges, cilantro, bell pepper, and of course, shredded cheese! My mom always said we should eat chili with peanut butter on crackers, as together they make a complete protein (or something like that.) I'd rather have with a small salad with a citrus dressing as the perfect side.
Leftovers are very tasty, and can be recycled into a fantastic dip by adding Velveeta cheese and tortilla chips. Or warm slightly, spoon onto tortilla and top with shredded cheese and crushed Fritoes, then fold and sear on griddle. Or spoon generously over the top of a hotdog on bun. Freeze single portions for some wintertime comfort food. It won't go to waste!

NaBloPoMo Day II: Pizzerias

2009-11-02T18:13:00.013-06:00

I have pizza on the brain, just having finished my dinner of leftover Racanelli's pizza: 2 pieces of Meatball and one of BBQ Chicken. I've had some really good pizza recently and would like to give a brief review.
Since we are in Saint Louis, I have to start with Imo's Pizza: the square beyond compare. Growing up in StL, this is definitely an option, but I have to be in the mood for a super-thin crust with a sweet sauce and Provel cheese. There are folks that would argue that Provel is not a real cheese, and I agree it is an acquired taste, but certainly a craving that has to be fulfilled.

Next, we have the national chains, like Pizza Hut and Dominoes (I don't include Papa Johns, as their pizza makes me mysteriously ill to my stomach.) I love the more interesting American Legends pizzas, like Memphis BBQ Chicken Pizza and Buffalo Chicken Pizza, but the last couple of times we have ordered one of these, the crust was undercooked beneath the sauce. So skipping them for now. Pizza Hut's big draw is the boneless Spicy Asian wings from their Wing Street menu. Yummy on their own, but if you set them on the pizza, or dip your crusts in the sauce, really excellent.

On to the best specialty pizza place that actually delivers to our house, Racanelli's. Their New York Style pizza is certainly fold-able, and their sizes are a couple inches larger than comparable sizes at other pizzerias to accommodate this, but their prices are also higher. Right now they have a Recession Buster Menu, with (very tasty) Strombolis and Calzones only $5 and pizzas 25% off on Sunday thru Thursday...if you remember to ask for it. Not a bad deal, and leftovers are excellent.

We discovered Dewey's Kirkwood location over a year ago, but have since introduced friends & family to the UCity pizzeria. Always packed, their pizza is top-notched and they have some unique combination of toppings. Among my favorites:

Green Lantern: Red Sauce, Light Mozzarella, Minced Garlic, Mushroom (nix this one!), Goat Cheese, Artichokes, Pesto
Meatball: Red Suace, Fresh Basil, Fresh Mozzarella, Italian Meatballs, Oregano, Parm
Seasonally November - December - The Don: Red Sauce, Mozzarella, Pepperoni, Salami, Capacola Ham & Oregano

They serve some local and interesting beers, and their salads, even the house, are outstanding. The waiting area features picture windows for viewing pizzas-in-progress, and the place is very kid friendly. They majorly rock, as they sponsored some events raising money for the Walk Now for Autism Speaks, and encouraged employees to participate this year.

I had been hearing about Pi Pizzeria ever since President Obama ordered a Chicago-style deep dish from outside his constituency, in great ole STL. I admire their commitment to sustainability: Pi is committed to environmentally benign success. Doing good while doing well is fundamental to our work, and is manifested in our commitment to create an ecologically sustainable restaurant.
The bathroom had a dual-flush toilet and a Dyson hand dryer. Worth a trip, even if you don't have the urge to go.

They offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Their pints of beer (great selection, including local) feature pi to the umteenth degree: 3.14159 26535 89793 23846 26433 83279 50288. My math teacher FIL may be getting a set for Christmas...

I greatly enjoyed their deep dish bacon pizza: lots of flavor in the chunky, fresh sauce and a deep flavor profile with a unique crust. Finally, they serve Goshen Coffee, of which I am a big fan, thanks to Foundation Grounds Coffee & Cafe, but that is another post.

In closing, central St. Louis has a few options for great pizza, a bunch for okay pizza, and a few options I wouldn't even mention. If you have some other favorites, let me know and I'll join you for a slice and a pint.

NaBloPoMo Day I

2009-11-01T21:24:00.004-06:00

NaBloPoMo (National Blog Posting Month) - Post every day for a month. That's all you have to do.

Well, I've had this blog since February of this year, but only have 16 posts so far. Most are about wedding stuff, and don't be fooled, more wedding stuff will be a-coming, but there is more going on in my life and sometimes I do feel like talking about it. But now that I have discovered Facebook, and I'm job hunting and keeping my LinkedIn profile up to date, how relevant is a blog to my life?

I have some very talented writer friends, and I love to read their blogs, and blogs of their friends, and even occasionally post some comments that are worth reading. But do my musings have enough substance (worth, humor, relevance) to merit a blog of my very own?

This month of daily posting should be a good indicator if I will be able to commit and keep it up. I purposefully do not link this to my FB profile, as I would like to have the freedom to rant without my family taking exception. So who will find me? Stop by and stay a while. Introduce yourself, and make a new friend, or chatter with an old one. I appreciate your attention, and hope to keep you entertained.

Most sincerely,
Laura

p.s. Happy All Saints' Day!

Happy 1st birthday, nephew!

2009-07-13T09:38:00.004-05:00

My nephew's first birthday this past weekend. SIL had bought the animal figurines for a jungle theme, and suggested chocolate with caramel flavor for the cake, and I took it from there! It turned out tasty, and was fun to make.

I used the 6" and 10" Wilton cake pans, split each layer for homemade caramel sauce plus buttercream filling, iced with medium green buttercream, then piped with dark green then accented with light green. The sand is leftover caramel buttercream that I texturized a bit, then the water is store-bought blue gel. Here is a detail shot:

Meat-On-A-Stick

2009-06-10T17:25:00.002-05:00

For those of you that have been raving about the Meat-On-A-Stick served at our reception, here is the recipe, courtesy of the wonderful chef at Catering Saint Louis:

40 % brown sugar
20% granulated garlic
20% black Pepper
20% McCormick's Mesquite Grill Mix

Mix ingredients, rub on cubed beef tenderloin, and let sit for 2 hours. Place on wet skewers and bake at 350 degrees for 7-8 minutes.

I picked up the ingredients this afternoon and will let you know how the home version works out!

There went the bride

2009-06-08T10:02:00.003-05:00

I have received just a few snapshots from my hubby's family. Still getting used to calling him "my husband" or being called "Mrs. Sweetie" (Not that our last name is sweetie, but I need to call us something, right?) So here is the two of us, and one of my "new" family in a candid moment.

Pictures, as promised

2009-05-26T09:08:00.014-05:00

<-- Here is another mockup fitting from a couple weeks ago. Still in the white muslin fabric, but I have the tiara, jewelry & brooch on!

This is a shot of the almost-finished flower girl ring pillows (just need some whip stitching to close.) No boys of the right age, so my twin niece flowergirls will each be carrying a pillow with special small arrangements by my florist. For now, they are showcasing my accessories!

-->And these are two detail shots from more recent fittings, in the actual fabric. The first is the neckline, but unfinished (you can see a rough edge.) The second is the waist/hip detail. Looking at other pictures from this session, I decided not to add pix of me in the dress, because it will ruin the surprise of the end result!

The economy has struck!

2009-05-13T14:18:00.003-05:00

Tuesday afternoon I received an odd request to meet one of my bosses at a hotel locations near the office in which I was an embedded contractor. So this morning I go in thinking maybe they have another job opportunity, or some such, but instead I received the news that my position has been eliminated.

So here it is 17 days before the wedding and now I have plenty of time to deal with the last minute details that I was stressing about!

Sorry, no pictures today. But if you know of anyone hiring in Saint Louis, in this economy any leads would be appreciated!

Aaarrggghhh! Prozac, anyone?

2009-05-07T17:29:00.004-05:00

It is 23 days and 1 hour till wedding and I just today found out that I have 2 major projects due in the next two weeks!!!111!!omg!!!wtf!!!

By Monday I have to be ready to roll out a new feature to to the massive Excel spreadsheets we use to track everything, and then the rest of the week schedule with my counterparts for them to zip & email me theirs. Then I will make the modifications, test them and zip and email back. Ten times. In addition to my other duties.

And then by the end of the next week I have to enter into a veeerrrryyyy sslloooowwww web database all of the classes scheduled for FY10 in my district. AND come up with the FY10 spreadsheet with requested upgrades.

This in addition to wedding ceremony programs, favors (may fall by the wayside) and beading on my gown. A couple more fittings, another hair/makeup session and could I lose 10 pounds in there, please? Finalizing ceremony, ceremony music, reception playlist.

I think I'm already having an anxiety attack. Aaak!

What do you think of the hair & makeup trial run? You can't see much of the hair (the hair dresser was shorter--which not that many people are--and shot from an odd angle) and the off-centered-ness of my nose is pretty obvious. But color-wise? Feedback appreciated!

Checklist

2009-04-19T10:10:00.003-05:00

Tuxedos: picked out. Here is my sweetie's, and the rest of the guys will have silver instead of pewter vest & tie.

Invitations: Sent! Finally! Already had one returned undelivered!!!

Photographer: Found Liz Sloane of L Photographie (careful, if you click on wedding music will start playing, but at least a good song.)

Florist: Found Jenny Zeman of Floral Jaz (she assisted at my sister's wedding 8 or 9 years ago!)

Mother of the Bride Dress: Purchased this week.

Mother of the Groom Dress: Found weeks ago.

Flower girl Dresses: Found. The flower sash is removable, so we will replace with the 2" silk dupioni ribbon that is the same color as the invitation ribbon, and very close to the bridesmaids color. And the shoes. Mustn't forget the lovely shoes.

Hair & Makeup: Rebecca Branson of The Electric Chair for Hair. She has been doing my hair for years, when her shop was 5 doors down from my house. I wouldn't trust it to anyone else.

Hair trial run: next Saturday. We will attempt an updo with my short hair. Before we set the date I had a layered bob with a stacked back, so the front is long enough, but getting the back will be a feat of hairspray and amazing prowess on my hairdresser's part. Which reminds me of something to add to my to-do list...veil!

Headpiece: check

Veil: decide on length & material and get it made in the next week.

Jewelry: I've ordered a necklace. We'll see if it looks right when it arrives and then I will find earrings.

Rings: My sweetie has been recalcitrant about wearing a ring, but we will get one for the wedding and he will give it a try. For my ring, I have some ideas, but don't know exactly. We need to get ourselves to the jewelers and figure this out. Soon. The engagement ring came from Paramount Jewelers in Maplewood and we will give them a try first.

Officiant: Chris Saulter of Marry Me in St. Louis. Chris' husband is one of our groomsmen, as my sweetie was in their wedding. I love having someone that knows US perform the ceremony. Their site has been a great help in sketching out the ceremony. To do: sit down with Chris and iron things out, then print ceremony programs.

Flower girls' ring pillows: The site will not allow scattering of petals or such, and with no young gents of the right age available, each of my nieces will carry a pillow with a couple of calla lilies on it and a ring secured to it. The fabric is from my yet-in-progress-gown. I need to get working on those, too.

Menu cards: Just doing a couple for each of the serving tables

Favors: I know what I am going to do, just need to get 'er done!

Music: Ceremony music I am working on, the playlist for the reception is coming along, too.

Whew. I'm tired just thinking about all left to do, but I feel great about how much I have already done. Just no getting sick, or breaking a limb or anything else to put me behind.

If only common law marraiges were legal in Missouri

2009-04-10T11:06:00.004-05:00

You've been engaged for how long?!?
me: over 5 years.

Ohhhh. I see....

me: We've set a date twice, and each time one of us lost our jobs. The first time we had the initial deposit check in a stamped envelope when we had to have the conversation that maybe he wouldn't find a job right away and we'd better hold off. Good thing we did, as it took 9 months for him to find a real job.

And the second time?

me: We had just visited a reception location and decided on a date, and actually saying the "W" word again, when bam! My job disappeared.

You must be confident it won't happen a third time, if you are going ahead with it in this economy.

me: Well, it almost did happen a third time. My sweetie and I were just starting to talk about dates again, when the company I worked for outsourced our department. The good news is, the new company hired the entire department. But it shook me up enough to relegate the "W" to the back burner, at least until I felt some confidence in the new employer. This was a year and a half ago.

But still, to spend that kind of money in this economy?

me: Well, my sweetie is the only software guy at his company that knows two of their systems. And I feel confident that my position is not going away. We own our own home (with a low, fixed rate mortgage) and the only other debt is a car payment. So we find ourselves in a better situation than most out there and we are doing our part to keep the economy moving!

You only gave yourself 3 months to plan the wedding. Isn't that a little insane?
me: Two main factors. First, my younger sister may be leaving the country after this school year to teach abroad for a year or two. And my sister and her girlfriend are must-shows for our wedding.

Second, my sweetie's baby sister is getting married in August. She's been engaged for only a year and a half and there is no way she is having her wedding before me!

Well good luck, and take lots of pictures!

me: Thanks, I will! Here is one of my tiara which came in last week:

There really is a gown in there...somewhere

2009-04-04T10:56:00.008-05:00

You wanna see something scary?

Here is my wedding dress...so far!

The sewing neophytes may be apprehensive, but I see the prototype of my dream gown. Yes, it takes a lot of imagination!

The top portion is just a muslin mockup of the underlayer, pinned to fit my torso and with notes scribbled all over (start dart 1" higher). It also has a tiny muslin piece pinned over the left breast in order to get the draping right.

The bottom portion is the crinoline petticoat with a layer of silk organza lining over the top in front, though nothing yet in the back.

From here Dauria will tear the muslin pieces apart and use them to make new patterns, then cut out of the foundation fabric. Once that part is done, we will drape the outer fabric (a luxurious silk dupioni in a yummy cameo color--creamy with warm pink/peach undertones) to get the right draping. After that, hemming and then Andi and I will attack it with a scattering of Swarovski crystals. The final touch will be this brooch at the point on my left waist where the folds all meet!

World Autism Awareness Day

2009-04-02T12:04:00.006-05:00

Celebrate World Autism Awareness Day! Visit www.worldautismawarenessday.org for more information.

My nearly 7-year-old nephew has has Autism. His own family can barely stand to travel by car for a few hours, so flying on crowded planes with connecting flights for 6 hours to attend our wedding is not something any of us want to put him through. Just one little, very personal reason why we need to find a cure for autism and fund treatment. Also why I will be participating in the Walk Now for Autism this fall in Saint Louis. A link to our page is to the right, if you are interested in supporting me, my nephew and all of us affected.

Lists and more lists, and lists of lists

2009-03-21T20:09:00.003-05:00

The wedding planning is going pretty well. Last weekend bridesmaids dresses were ordered. That dress is a full-length version of this dress, in the color on the dressform: Deep Navy (though it looks like a dark peackock blue.) With that decision made, everything else starts falling in place following the dark teal & silver color scheme.

My gown is being handmade by my former wedding dress designer boss, Dauria. The fabric is a luxurious silk dupioni or shantung in a color I might call cameo. It does not have yellow undertones like an ivory, but more of a pink undertone, which compliments my skintone better. My mockup fitting is next week, so more about that gown later.

Invitation supplies have been ordered and I am going to print myself. Yeah, I might just be crazy. But I am just not finding anything I like in my pricerange or in the short turn-around time I've left myself. So I am researching fonts and verbiage, so that I will be ready to print when the stock comes in. Many of my friends have offered their help, so I may be calling on them for an afternoon of movies and assembly at some point soon!

I've also set up my hair appointments, for both color two weeks prior (what, you thought my hair was naturally this red?) and for a trial run for my updraft and makeup.

What else is on my list...

Flower girls: Now that I have the bridesmaids gowns and colors picked, I think white or very light pink dupioni or organza gown for my nieces and I will supply the sashes in the dark teal (easier to say that than dark peacock blue!) Looking at the little girl dresses, I'm a little shocked at how adult some of them look. I know some traditions hold with dressing them like little brides, with veil and all, but it's not even that. I mean the spaghetti straps and backless dresses for 4 year-olds! Not at my wedding!

Registering for gifts: Dave and I have lived together for a number of years now, and bought a house 2.5 years ago, so we have most of the "stuff", but I will take the chance to upgrade some of my bargain cookwear. I really do not desire fine china, and I just purchased new dishes when Linens-n-Things was going out of business. Ooh, maybe I'll finally get a stand mixer like I've been lusting after the past few years! I mentioned to my sweetie that we could register for a flat-screen tv or somesuch and he didn't sound too enthusiastic.

Photographer: I've interviewed one that I really liked, and want to check with at least one more before committing.

Wedding Cake: Just not high enough on my list to worry about yet!

I know there is more, but my list that contains each of the lists above is not within reach. Though I don't leave home without it these days. Not much else on my mind these days. Happy
spring!

At Last!

2009-03-04T09:40:00.003-06:00

Cue Etta James!

I started this blog with some great ideas for posts, but then, BAM! My sweetie and I go and set a date for our wedding...only 87 days away! For a more precise count, see the nifty countdown in the panel on the right. We've been engaged for going on five years, so I should have everything planned out, right?

Ummm...not quite.

So while I scramble to nail down the menu, design invitations, find a florist, photographer and cake maker, consider favors and ceremony programs, wedding bands (as in jewelry, not musical group!), find a gown for me and the ladies, and pray for good weather, I don't have much brain space for other blog content. If you don't mind hearing about all that, feel free to stick around. There may be some non-bridal musings along the way, too!

Jump right into the political fray

2009-02-25T09:27:00.004-06:00

I was going to start out with some easy get-to-know-me posts (or describe the black mold we found in the bedroom this weekend and my subsequent sinus infection, but quickly decided that snot stories do not make for good blogging,) instead, this recent news story has me thinking.

After a bit of looking around at who would be building these 28 new high-tech helicopters, and where. First, I do think that 28 is a bit excessive, even if they do need a couple of decoys plus a couple hot spares a third of that number sounds better. Second, the company tasked to provide these whirlybirds is Lockheed Martin, based out of Maryland and the production plant is in New York state. I like that the work would go to a US-based company and be produced in the US. Third, most of the news reports, and McCain's comments make it seem like the new fleet of 'copters is an expense Obama is indulging in. In fact, Bush awarded the contract over 4 years ago. I found these press releases.

Finally, that news release mentions that some of the major components in the new helicopter are not US-made, which is not as good for US jobs. But we also have to consider that if countries that buy from the US or supply the US probably need a boost to their economy to continue to trade. If the government does not purchase at least some of these new Marine One helicopters, Lockheed Martin will be yet another employer looking to slash jobs. We could look at a portion of the purchase price as a part of the stimulus bill.

On the topic of President Obama and Marine One, I enjoyed the story of him first saluting the marine at the foot of the helicopter stairs, and then shaking the Corporal's hand. The president asked Williams' name and said it was an honor and he appreciated the service. Since that young marine is from Eastern Missouri, it was covered in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. While finding the link, I saw a blogger getting getting the story wrong, thinking that the president did not salute and therefore disrespecting the armed forces. I also found this photo of our lanky prez bumping his head on Marine One just a few days later.

(AP photo / February 9, 2009)

Headline: Obama bumps head when boarding Marine One
The solution for the 6-foot-1 president? Duck!
(Baltimore Sun / February 10, 2009)

Inaugural Blog Post

2009-02-21T14:10:00.004-06:00

I've been thinking of starting a blog for a while, but had the thoughts of what will I have to talk about? and who will actually take the time to read it? and who will find it? I have a handful of blogs I read faithfully and post on occasionally, but now I find I have some of my own things to say.

The straw that broke the camel's back straw was that I had a dream last night about having a wildly successful blog (not that the blogs success is important to me, however that is measured.) This lazy Saturday morning I woke up and made my coffee (made strong, with plenty of 1/2 & 1/2 and dark brown sugar), read a book (and finished it) while my cat sat on my feet (that may be because of the heating pad I had keeping my toes arm) and mulled it over. I've been seeing the "You are not an author on any blogs yet, create one now to start posting!" message on the Blogger Dashboard I use to follow my favorite bloggers and realized how easy it could be to set up. So here I am!

Just writing this intro, I've come up with ideas for posts, but I will warn you that I do not anticipate being an every-single-day poster. I won't always have something profound to say, and I won't always use perfect sentence structure or grammar (is that even the same thing?) though I will try to spell correctly and use proper capitalization. It is more important to me to convey the feeling behind the words and letters to my (as yet mythical) readers.

So those of you that stop by: welcome! Stay a while, feel free to comment--I won't judge on grammar and punctuation--but I would ask for civility and that you respect that this is my blog with my opinions and thoughts, though I am willing to hear people that do not agree with me 100%. I am not trying to sell anything or convert anybody to my way of thought, or change the world, just to share a bit of my life.

Thank you for your time and attention.

Warmest regards,
Laura