brown m&m

A GOOD Hair Cut

2012-01-19T09:53:00.000-06:00

The annual SB Spa Weekend is Jan 28th. This is where we stay at Diane Z's house for the weekend and go to the Aveda Spa (owned by the Queen's sister) on Saturday. It's a weekend of comfy clothes, lots of talk, more laughter, much snacking, and a little Asti Spumanti.

We need to "order" our spa services ahead of time so the Queen's sister can coordinate schedules. This year I ordered a facial and a GOOD hair cut. In an effort to save $, I've been coloring my roots on my own (never had done this before) and haven't had a hair cut for months and months. When I ordered the GOOD haircut, I also specified that the cut should make me look fifty pounds thinner and twenty years younger. Clearly I am delusional, but hey, it was worth a try. Oh, and the GOOD cut has been been "gifted" to me!

Because having long hair is really REALLY convenient, I don't plan on a short cut. Here is what I will be showing the stylist. Perhaps my biggest question is, "bangs or no bangs?" - it's a pretty nice life when that is today's biggest question, huh? Yes, I am Blessed.

If I Had A Nickel...

2012-01-11T13:20:00.001-06:00

... for every nail I have pulled out of these chairs I am redoing, I'd only be about $5.00 richer. I have two more (well, maybe more like 1.5) chairs to go before I put the upholstering project to bed. Although tedious, there are moments of relaxing, mindless nail-pulling involved.

Every time I strip off layers of fabric, batting, horsehair - whatever they used in the "olden days" - I wonder if I might find hidden treasure. Who knows if an eccentric millionaire previously owned the chair and stashed wads of $100 bills into the cushioning? Or, what if a rich old lady lost her 2 carat diamond in the hollows between cushion and frame? So far all I've found is nails, birds nests and stink. But you just never know!

I had a mishap today which made me stop the process (oh darn I am gonna need to wait for the glue to dry). I guess I hammered a little too hard huh? This chair also needed a little tightening up and her joints glued.

I bet you never knew I even OWNED a clamp, huh? he he

And because my days are incomplete without, I will leave you with another before/after. I've been awake since 4:00 AM, got my online class and my website all ready to go, and since the glue really should dry overnight (yeah, right...) I think it may be nap time. Oh seeeeester - are you maybe a little sorry you told me to blog more? You may need a nap too because this whole DIY posting thing is turning into a real snoozer. Ah well, it's nice for me to look back and see what I've been doing, and I don't expect I will be updating much here when school begins next week. I still have kitchen curtains to sew... THEN I will be done for now.

Kitchen Improvements

2012-01-10T16:48:00.001-06:00

Can't afford this, but I bought this. Part of project getting-house-ready-to-sell-if-I-need-to.
(Nice to have a working dishwasher again after so many months, and still waiting on delivery of the refrigerator with the correct door swing!)

Nice to have a stove where the burner doesn't shut off when it wants to.

Improvement!

Symmetry

2012-01-10T09:56:00.001-06:00

"... an imprecise sense of harmonious or aesthetically pleasing proportionality and balance; such that it reflects beauty or perfection." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symmetry

Beauty? Perfection? Not so much, but I do find the balance here to be very calming. And, calm is good. The space between the last shelf and the floor is not calming - both shelves need something under them to anchor the whole unit. But until I can find something on the cheap, I will need to keep looking UP!

The Laundry Room Debacle

2012-01-08T10:06:00.000-06:00

I don't think I ever followed up on last summer's laundry room project. The reason for that is that the laundry room is still not completed, but this time it's not really all my fault.

First of all, I had a little paint snafu... I did paint one coat of light paint on the floor and then decided, "ewww-bad choice" as every. single. little. speck. of. anything. showed up on it. Sooooo, for the second coat, I decided I would use those paint flecks - do you remember those?

credit http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/how-to-paint-a-workshop-floor/index.html

Well, I should have Googled this. I am hanging my head in shame because when I was ready to paint the second coat, I mixed the paint flecks ($7 + by the way) INTO the paint. As I was stirring I was thinking, "gee, these flecks must be kind of magical if they still show black/white/blue after they are all covered with paint~!" Stir more flecks in. Stir. Stir. Stir. "Gee, this doesn't seem right..." Stir. Stir. Stir. "Maybe I should look at the directions." STOP. And that is where I ended my laundry room project.

As it turns out, not painting the second coat turned out to be a GOOD thing. You see, I have been having condensate drain problems. Lots and lots of water which is wearing away the paint and causing rust spots too. When bro #2 came to pick up the dog-children, I asked him to take a look at what was going on down there. He said, "CALL AND GET THIS FIXED ASAP - YOU MAY BE RUINING YOUR NEW FURNACE!!!" And then he said, you should probably run PVC pipe across the floor down to the drain rather than a hose snaked along the wall. I said, "nooooooo, that would be ugly!" to which he just shrugged his shoulders.

The plumber came, and here is what he did:

Yep, bro should have been an HVAC guy. Sooooo, Bob the Plumber (who creeps me out just a little) installed the pipe, said all is well, and left. I cleaned all the gunk and water up, and did the "paper towel" test to make SURE all water was being taken care of.

Paper towel test failed.

Bob the Plumber will be getting another call tomorrow. And, this is another reason why I am probably staying home.

Ok, aside from the floor, I did make some laundry room progress as you can see below:

Note: I will empty out or remove those shelves on the left when selling the house.

And of course, before and after shots because I must:

So, until Bob the Plumber (who also installed my furnace) fixes my problem, I am given a FREE PASS on getting that floor done. Right?

rutabagas, spray paint, and cinnamon

2012-01-08T08:58:00.001-06:00

Do you remember mom's love of rutabagas? She would make yummy beef stew using them. I actually think that making this stew was cooking she actually enjoyed doing!

Today I am making beef stew with rutabagas for Mary Z (which would be Dee Dee's mom/David's mom/Cathy's mom because she isn't feeling so hot and she LOVES rutabagas.

Speaking of not feeling so hot... I am wondering if I poisoned myself again with paint fumes. When it was 50+ degrees here in January [last week], I decided that spray painting season was NOT over, and proceeded to PUT ON MY MASK, and have at it.

I sprayed the above old/stained lampshade, and quite a few other things I had around the house that I decided to re-purpose for the living room, and for the past few days I have been feeling "blech" - and if I think about it, it's that same kind of blech I felt when I painted my BR in January and the fumes bothered me until June. It's kind that weird-in-back-of-throat-ick + aching joints. Or, maybe I am coming down with something. Regardless, I am not "feelin' the energy" to travel down to see dad.

We all know Christmas decorations are clearanced at 75%+ off, right? I cannot seem to get enough of these cinnamon-scented pine cones. They smell wonderful and since it is still winter (even though we have NO snow YAY) I bought another bag yesterday.

So that's what's on my agenda for the last week of my break. Back to school for a meeting on Friday, and then for classes on Monday, Jan 16. Can't wait (ba ha ha ha).

I saw this and cannot stop thinking about it

2012-01-06T09:27:00.001-06:00

Time for another Before and After

2012-01-05T12:36:00.009-06:00

Finally! The chair is done, or, at least as done as it is going to be until/if I decide to purchase more upholstery nails. Here she is in all her glory(?)

And, here is her back. Yes, I know the nails are not perfect but they are as good as I want to do.

Finally, the before and after shot:

Let's see if I can remember the price breakdown:
Chair 4.50
Fabric 5.00
Paint 3.50
Batting 4.00
Dec nails 3.00
-------
20.00

Seriously, I am not convinced this chair is $20.00 worth of cute. BUT, I don't think I could have purchased anything like it for twenty dollars, and I sure won't need to feel badly about parting from it when the time comes!

Email FYI

2012-01-01T16:45:00.001-06:00

Update 1/2/2012: Email is A-OK now!

~~I cannot access my email until I go into work and change my password. I think this is becoming a yearly event! Until then, you can reach me at becali9@yahoo.com.~~

Imitation Pottery

2011-12-31T10:37:00.000-06:00

Yes, seeeester, I am trying to fill up those shelves according to the "inspiration" photo. The vases I worked with were 50 cents each at GoodWill (not valuable pieces at all Bro). I found CG's old puffy paints and went to town. What did I have to lose after all?
Here's the result:

Spray painting in 40 degrees is not recommended but I wanted to see some results! I think this falls into the "better than nothing" category - cannot say I love the result but it's not too bad and they will "do" until I find something better on the cheap.

I really need to start sewing but cannot find the motivation. After a Christmas Day consultation with the decorating expert (sis Dianne) I am convinced that the fabric I picked will work well, and add some "zing" to the kitchen.

Here's a before pic with the fabric just laid over the rod. Maybe it will inspire me?

And in other news, I finally have my car back! CG just called to say she arrived in Dallas this AM, and Sophie and Mesa are here:

I discovered Sophie had found/partially eaten something very bad (20 mg prozac that must have fallen on the floor at sometime - sob!) right after I took this shot. I called Dianne and gave Sophie a substantial amount of peanut butter (drink drink drink) and a lot of meat in hopes it will either help absorb or make her vomit. Dianne assures me that all is well but I am currently worried sick and will certainly be keeping my eye on her all day long.

I was loving this dog-sitting gig but now feel so horrible that I am second-guessing the wisdom in it. Gaaaah!

hhmmm... ?

2011-12-30T11:37:00.000-06:00

The dogs have gone home :-( and I don't feel like sewing, sooo...
Can you guess what I am doing and how it will turn out?

Yeah. Me neither.

;-)

Merry Christmas From Dog Heaven!

2011-12-25T23:20:00.000-06:00

More Ho Ho Ho

2011-12-20T10:09:00.000-06:00

Is a picture really worth 1000 words? he he!

THANKS Jer! Loved it!

HO HO HO

2011-12-18T14:21:00.000-06:00

If I've said it once I've said it a million times...

Who needs a truck when you have a convertible?

OOPS

2011-12-11T13:46:00.003-06:00

After consideration, I thought this chair would be a better place to start.

Looks simple enough, right? Just pull the seat out and staple some new fabric over it.

Perhaps I should have stopped here (purple is not so bad, right?)

By the time I reached this stage, things were starting to smell - literally:

WHAT DID THEY STUFF THESE CHAIRS WITH? BIRD'S NESTS???

Remember when I said "I thought this chair would be a better place to start" ?

BWAHAHAHAHAHAH!

UPDATE - she's done!

A Tetanus Shot Waiting To Happen

2011-12-11T10:38:00.000-06:00

Do you remember this?

Today I am starting the process of reupholstering this chair. I started the morning out by removing nails. Oh my...

Seriously, these rusty nails are indeed a tetanus shot waiting to happen. I am being very (very!) careful, but I gotta say that there were a lot of nails embedded deeply in this chair.

Now, that she's stripped and ready, I am kind of dumbfounded where to start! I have the fabric, fuse-on fabric stabilizer, foam, batting, a hot iron, a brand new staple gun, and packs of staples. I suppose it's time to go down to the garage and bring up the original (stinky, nasty, gross) fabric pieces and start cutting, huh?

For all of those who read here (bwahahahaha!) I would like some advice. My rug - the wonderful and soft Wooly Bully rug (with a nice rubber backing) that I paid too much for is sized 5x8. There was a different rug sized 8x10 (it's now on sale!) that I was also interested in before I purchased Wooly Bully. Do you think a bigger rug would be better? I priced some foam to lay under the 8x10 rug, and do think it would be equally as soft and nice. Sooooo... is bigger better? Would it make the room look larger/smaller? I do think that placing the furniture ON the rug would be a good thing. Any feedback out there?

My Craig's List Fireplace

2011-12-10T13:35:00.002-06:00

My "inspiration" pic includes a fireplace, so I set out to find one on the cheap. Actually, I'd been eyeing up electronic fireplaces since last winter and long before I found the pic. For some reason, the idea of it sounded cozy to me, but I surely wasn't going to pay $300.00 - $500.00 for one.

Earlier this fall I purchased this fireplace from Craig's List for $50.00. The price was right and the pic is blurry.

Obviously, it was too dark for my light/bright/neutral scheme so I dragged it upstairs (it is reasonably heavy) and applied three coats of antique white paint (looooow VOC - LOVE that low VOC stuff). As you can see, I pried off the foo foo decoration in the middle, caulked it, sanded it and hoped to cover it up.

The painting was slow-going and it really did require three coats. Probably could have used even one more but I became impatient.

And, here she is today with her new look. I'm glad I added more black to it (over the actual electric unit) because I think it adds a little somethin' somethin'. She works (complete with fake logs, flames and a remote) and even throws some nice heat!

Not bad for $50.00 + $6.00 can of paint, huh? I am kind of looking forward to hanging Christmas stockings on an actual fireplace. Well... it is not an actual fireplace but it will do just fine for me. I think it is definitely fifty dollars worth of cute.

If I'd have known then what I know now

2011-12-09T15:53:00.003-06:00

This. THIS is the very worst $500.00 I ever spent.

I had NO intention whatsoever of buying an additional vehicle when CG turned 16. None.

But then... RB found me a sweet little Dodge Neon for $500.00. It was a one-owner car and he knew the owner. It was well taken care of. He told me it was a GREAT buy. So me, not one wanting a "deal" to slip through my fingers, bought it.

It has been downhill from there. If I would have known then that the cycle of car repairs, gas money, replacement vehicles, having to do for LB what I did for CD, and insurance would be with me EIGHT YEARS (and thousands of dollars) LATER I'd never done it.

Am I bitter? Nope.

What I am is not very forward-thinking. So, knowing what I know now leads me to advise two things:

be careful what you purchase for the 1st child
be sure to include college tuition in your divorce settlement

And no, I am not bitter.

What I am is broke.

-------------

On a more positive note...
I've a feeling that my neutral LR was a good idea. It's slowly coming together at very little cost.

More side-by-side comparison to keep myself going:

Actually, I am a little bitter.

Getting There

2011-12-05T16:54:00.001-06:00

Well.... I think I am getting there but a long way from where I want to be:

I did get the fireplace upstairs (the shell anyway) and I did move the sofa from LB's bedroom. Bro, do you recognize it with it's new "clothes"?

I am fairly certain that I am moving the piano in the [left] corner behind the sofa. I need to upholster chairs and do something with the walls. I need to hang curtain rods and curtains. I also need to finish painting the fireplace and re-install the heating part. But this is the way it is going to stay for several days as I am busy with school.

Hopefully the next update will be sooner than later, and the room won't look so naked. Ha!

Step 2

2011-12-04T07:47:00.001-06:00

I've been up since 4:00 am (Grading!) and am ready to finish painting today.
For my own inspiration, here's a side-by-side:

The red circle shows the significant difference - a good thing.

Ready now (after a bit more grading) to continue...

Better

2011-12-03T20:37:00.000-06:00

1 part kitchen color (antique white) + 1 part gray/green/yuck = ok I think.

I still see gray in that room, but when I hold up the toile/cream table cloth, it matches nicely.

The trim looks better too. I refuse to buy more paint, so this WILL do! I have over the big window, and then the closet area to finish tomorrow. Can't wait to put my "stuff" in here and see how it looks (sans sofa and fireplace - too heavy to lift myself).

Slowly... slowly....

ewwwww

2011-12-02T18:13:00.001-06:00

I didn't think I could mess up on neutral/taupe paint but it appears that I did:

Can you see the greenish/gray hue?

The color does NOTHING to compliment the ceiling, floor or trim:

Blech. Palm Oasis = FAIL. Who would have known that a color palette like this would contain a color that looks gray/green. Ewwww.

What to do? Well... I think I need to mix a lighter color with the gallon of Palm Oasis I have left, and then apply coat #2.

Dang, I am not a good paint picker-outer!

Very Consistent

2011-11-29T08:06:00.000-06:00

Happy events to report from the Mississippi River Valley:

Thanksgiving was SO lovely! LB and I went to bro's house and stayed all day long. Well, we were happy about that anyway! Very good meal and sooooo wonderful to spend time with bro and sister and niece and nephew and the two little girls. Seeing those girls is like taking a step back in time - reliving when my daughters were the same ages. It's a sweet thing.
I like LB and talking with her. This girl/woman has matured a lot in the last year and it is nice to see. Not that I didn't like her before (ha ha) but it is fulfilling for me to see her live life authentically and show the sweet side of her. Again, it is like taking a step back in time - but better!
I like CG and talking with her. CG spent the holiday in New Orleans with a friend and his friends and his family. CG doesn't share all of the details - but that's OK. Seriously, all I needed to see was one word she left on her Facebook status - "Happiness!" - that's all this mom needs to know. CG is also very kind to me about calling to let me know she arrives safely at her destinations - she always does this and I am thankful for it. Thinking on this, there's been a LOT of travels/calls from this girl/woman. She definitely gets around!
It also made me happy to help LB with laundry and to send her home with clean clothes, linens, a little food, and a Magic Eraser.
Some of my HS friends (SBs) were home for Thanksgiving so it was dinner together on Friday and breakfast on Sunday. Always SO GREAT to see them!
I sent my new car home with LB (she had to work} and took the convertible in to RB on Friday. He replaced the fan blower unit (LB had no heat) and I have another appt this week for him to put on new struts. Perhaps this doesn't qualify as a "happy event" but I am happy that the car doesn't need a new transmission. Yet.
Only three (?) weeks until school is done.

And, what am I consistent about? Sleeping. Sometimes from 6:30 pm to 6:30 am - make that a lot/most of times. I've not been at all productive. It's difficult to get house things done when I have grading and prepping that takes up my time and mind (yes, when I am not doing it I am thinking about it!)

Now, off to work for another day. Even though the semester is going well, and I have good students, I am counting the days down now... who knows what Christmas break will bring aside from the girls being home for a bit. Maybe I will have had enough sleep by then?

I doubt it.

A couple of things before noon

2011-11-20T12:23:00.001-06:00

Swatch of LR paint [zero VOC] looks as though it will work out nicely.

I bought a product yesterday that may perhaps lighten my water-damaged hardwood floors. I am not sure if I will attempt to use it while the house is closed up - may need to wait until next summer. I can also see me renting a floor sander. I do know that refinishing hardwood floors is best left to the experts, but the way I see it, how much more damage could I do?

Ewww.

And more ewwww.

Birdie and I made it through the night without dying from paint fumes. Here's a look at Spray Painting Central.

Coat #2 will happen this afternoon when it warms up to at least 40.

The Boring Details

2011-11-19T12:23:00.001-06:00

Sooooo, you wonder what I do when I travel to Rochester? Basically, I scavenge. Yep. GoodWill, Savers, The Salvation Army. That's where I land. And when I am done scrounging around, my car looks like this:

And like this:

Then, I unload it all and make a mess like this:

And after that? After researching the internet for the very best deals, I run to Menards and purchase these (which were half price on clearance).

I am in the process of my living room redo on a BUDGET! So, the Menards trip also included spray paint and painting supplies.

See that $50.00 Craig's List electric fireplace? It will become ivory and black. See those shelves which were originally $80.00 a piece but I bought them BOTH for $80.00? They will be painted black. If you look closely at the mess you may see the other purchases that will be refurbished. Two $3.00 lamps (with shades) will be painted. The tables will also be painted.

What you don't see is a really nice rug - the "Woolie Boolie" from Lowe's which I paid MUCH too much for (but I love it). I also purchased upholstery fabric ($3.99/yard) to update those chairs. And then, of course, the two panels that I needed to bring the toile to the living room.

Speaking of fabric... did I tell you that I plan to purchase new appliances? What does that have to do with fabric? I will get to that. I've also been shopping around (online and in stores) for a new refrigerator, stove, microwave and dishwasher:

Two burners work sporadically on my current stove.
My dishwasher does not work at all.
My microwave makes laboring noises.
My refrigerator is OK.

For "sellability" and "modernness" I will buy stainless steel appliances - again, decided after much internet research. Ok. So the fabric... I like my kitchen now, but I don't think the toile will exactly compliment stainless steel appliances. I knew I would sell my current furniture and then "neutralize" my living room - the toile curtains are part of the neutral living room plan. I can use what I have now, but needed more panels for my HUGE LR window.

That dang kitchen floor. I replaced it in 2005 and I will NOT spend the dollars for something different. Problem is, how do you mesh black and cream and brown and gray? The answer? Curtains! Now, to find the fabric. Again, I spent countless hours on the internet looking at fabric swatches. Ugh. I wanted something not-too-expensive ($25.00/yard designer fabrics? No thanks.) , something that incorporated all of those colors, and something more lively and modern. After MONTHs (yes months) I decided on the fabric I had bought a swatch of this summer. Here it is: [image credit]

Back to Hancock Fabric I went to make my purchase.
They were out.
By looking at the UPC on my swatch, they were able to tell me what the fabric was and directed me to look at their online store.
The online store had it in stock for $10/yard. More than I wanted to pay, but by this point I was SICK of looking, and decided to bite the bullet.
Several days later I went to place my order and the fabric was OUT OF STOCK.
Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
Back to the drawing board! I went back to Hancock to start my search all over again. While there, Barb (the manager whom I've known forever) asked me why I was there/what was I looking for? I pulled out my swatch and told her the long and sad story.
Then, Barb stepped about five feet away and grabbed a bolt of MY fabric off the shelf! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? I couldn't.
Better yet? It was on sale for $5.00/yard. Barb also gave me a coupon for !0% off so my curtains will cost about $24.00. Oh Happy Day!

I may add some gray to the curtains when I make them. Not quite sure yet.

So, there you have it. The mundane (but often fulfilling) details of the day-to-day here in the City of Apples.

Seeester - sorry you asked? ;-)

our famous bro

2011-11-19T07:56:00.005-06:00

Did you know that we are related to a local celebrity?
Did you know that we are related to someone who is now famous in WI?
He is a humble man - I didn't find out about this until just last week.

Here's a hint:

Doesn't that green, black and yellow sticker represent a TON of memories? It does for me... didn't we ALWAYS have a sticker like that on every one of our vehicles?

Here's another hint:

OK, now you know WHO is famous, but do you know why?

Our bro shot this deer with a recurve/traditional bow. This bow was hand-crafted by a long time family friend, John W. (I don't want to use last names here but John's family lived beside ours on Oak Ave. I believe?) Anyway... not a compound bow and much more difficult to shoot.

Additionally, our famous bro shot this buck with a clean lung shot. Perfect kill shot. Placed exactly where he wanted it - and, from what I hear, simply instinctive as he didn't have too much time to think about it.

Nice buck, right? But in WI, a nice buck doesn't make you famous. What does?
This is exhibit B (because exhibit A is nowhere to be found on the internet!)

Do you remember the annual Necedah shoot? The above results are from 2010.

Guess who scored number 1 in the Men's Traditional Class this year?
Yep, none other than our famous and humble bro.
I'm proud for him.
It's cool too - kind of like a "full circle" thing, huh? From little boy to teen to young man to [older] man...
I think mom would be proud!

Well done left-handed-brother-who-shoots-right-handed ~!
Your right-handed-sister-who-shoots-left-handed is really happy for you!

By the way, this left hand/right hand phenomenon... who else is affected? My daughters aren't, but I wonder... does it trickle down to you/children/nephews and nieces too?

WOW ~ that didn't take long!

2011-11-12T12:06:00.003-06:00

I posted this ad last night at about 6:00 PM:

I sold it last night at 8:30PM sight unseen for $400.00. The family came and picked it up this morning and here is what the room looks like now (it echos).

Here's my "inspiration pic" for the new LR - neutral but not so stark black and white. I lilke the
furniture placement and the symmetry. We'll see...

Something Is Rotten In Denmark

2011-11-06T20:24:00.001-06:00

Icky happenings around school lately:

the tri-mester system and all the changes that may bring about.
After July 01, we will have no contract (thanks so much Gov. Walker)
Advanced Web Programming has been added as a class (effective 2013)
The three-legged stool is falling apart

The three legged stool is my team; S, D and I. S currently teaches ALL of the game programming classes. S did not get his Spring 2012 schedule - his classes say "staff". The Associate Dean is stepping down and becoming an instructor. S interviewed for the Assoc Dean (and the regular Dean positions) and he's been asked to take the Assoc Dean position. Here's what is worrisome... D got Game Development I on his schedule for Spring. He's never programmed in C#. He knows absolutely zero about it. And now, he has hhmmm... let's say about 2.5 months to learn all he can to teach it in January.

This is how it happens but generally, we are given at least the summer to teach ourselves a new concept/subject. For instance, I currently know about 15% of what the new Web Programming class will require. But, I have some time.

Sooooo... S says he doesn't know why D got the class, D is rather pissed and frantic. We have diversified in classes but each of us has our specialties (NOT game dev. I HATE gaming. Blech.) I am the web and database person. D has been the VB and RPG person. But you know what? We are certified 107 instructors and I can just hear "them" saying, "well, if it is one of your courses you are expected to teach it!" And now we will have NO contract to help us. This stinks - my schedule for Spring is great but WHO KNOWS WHAT will be on there for fall. Yeah... I have never EVER wished I was older but gee whiz, thinking about retiring is starting to look closer and better.

The question is, what can I do to prepare myself because the way I see it, I could be out of a job. Seniority no longer matters and there is a push at the college to get away from the full time instructors and hire more adjunct faculty. Good decision financially, but baaaaaad in every other way. Most other ways.

So, I do need to be prepared to try to sell this house. If I have a house payment, I will not survive for three months without a job. I need to get all of the training I possibly can to prepare for the new Web course. I am looking into an Occupational Competency Grant where I would work along someone in industry.

I hope I don't regret buying my car/car payment. I hope things are smoother this week and some questions are answered. Most of all, I hope I am able to teach the classes that are put on my schedule.

A bit of what I've been doing... several more steps toward the neutral LR.

- Selling my living room: http://sellinglr.blogspot.com/ (this isn't "live" yet on Craig's List... maybe next weekend?)

- Moving toile to LR/looking at paint colors

- purchasing old/cheap furniture and painting/refurbishing

CA Cousins Pics

2011-10-25T08:39:00.000-05:00

These pics are from our brother C's FaceBook:

This last pic was in the same picture folder so I am assuming it is our Aunt and Uncle's house (?)

There's a new boy in town

2011-10-22T08:55:00.005-05:00

... and it's a LOT less quiet around here!

As a matter of fact, he gets downright noisy.
(I know it's a "he" by the way he likes to scold me. :-)

When the CA cousins were in town, J told me that Grandma P had a parakeet. I guess Grandma's parakeet was so friendly that it would keep her company while she wrote letters. J remembers receiving letters that had little bite marks up and down the sides of the page. Ha!

My bird (yet to be named) is not that friendly.

He also has lots and lots of "friends" outside:

And, because you are not on Facebook, I am including a pic from the CA cousins' visit via our Bro, C.

Lastly, here's a Happy Halloween for you --- Becky-style.

Zooming

2011-09-08T19:19:00.001-05:00

I took these tonight while standing on the deck - just playing around with the zoom lens. I was trying to capture a picture of a hummingbird. Maybe tomorrow?

I Did It

2011-09-04T10:24:00.002-05:00

Finally! After weeks of preparing/selling selling the truck, spending hours and hours (many many hours) on the Internet, arranging financing with my lender, and renting this for a week:

FINALLY, yesterday I purchased a new vehicle. Here she is:

"She" is a 2010 Chrysler Sebring "Limited" with 11,000 miles - the "fancy" version with a V6 engine, leather seats and sunroof. I bought her from Barnett Auto up in the cities. There was a tad bit of email drama between myself and the Internet Salesperson which caused me to phone the dealership which resulted in me doing business with Mr. Barnett. I think my rather low ball offer was accepted because of the email drama. I also think the email will be a great follow up to my "professional emailing" discussion with my students.

Anyway, yeah, I know that the convertible is also a Sebring, but after comparing other cars (Buick La Crosse, Chevrolet Malibu, Mercury Milan, and the 4 cyl. Sebring) I just knew that this was the car that delivered what I wanted most:

LOW LOW miles which just simply makes me feel secure
SMOOTH and QUIET ride

I am hopeful that this car will help to make the Summer of 2011 Car Drama a distant memory. Now, all I need to do is hope (actually, maybe this is something I need to pray about) that the convertible makes it through the winter up in the Cities with Lilly. Because if it doesn't, I just don't know how I will come up with the money to fix it.

p.s. Buying a car is EXPENSIVE! Taxes alone were over $1000.00!

The View From Here

2011-08-20T16:46:00.002-05:00

Truck Update:
Pretty much nothing aside from an email offering me $1500.00 --- phooey!
Here's the Craig's List Ad: http://lacrosse.craigslist.org/cto/2551732397.html
Here's the Blog I made: http://redranger4sale.blogspot.com/

Selling the Truck

2011-08-14T18:44:00.041-05:00

I've been busy cleaning, shining, vacuuming, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, Windexing, Amoralling, tirewashing and waxing the truck. I am planning on selling it as soon as I get a few things taken care of with the engine - am currently waiting for a part.

Today was picture day!

I am planning on advertising this on Craig's List in La Crosse. Unfortunately, Craig's List allows only two pics (I think) so as I was uploading this, I came up with a possibly bright idea...

How about if I created an entirely different blog, and on Craig's List, posted a pic like this?

I wonder if that's Craig List Legal? Hmmmm... I will also be including information on ALL OF THE REPAIRS, and maintenance I have done. According to Blue Book the selling value is $1575-$2050, but NADA is significantly higher. How much do YOU think it's worth? And, have I forgotten anything?

Outside Views:

Missing piece (red) from left tail light

Dent/Scratches - right rear panel

Date	Description
8/2011	New Battery
7/2010	Replaced Purge Flow Sensor
10/2009	Replaced Right Lower and Upper Ball Joints
10/2009	Replaced Front and Rear Shocks
10/2009	Replaced Front Brake Pads and Front Brake Rotors
10//2009	New Tires (odometer = 102,528)

Garden Before and After

2011-08-04T08:02:00.000-05:00

The "circles" exploded while I was on vacation!

Here's how the garden looked on July 6th:

And, here's how it looks now (different angle):

I do love my zinnias!

Family

2011-07-17T22:04:00.000-05:00

I don't think I've seen this pic before - sent to me by my bro. I think it was taken in the Fall of 2009.
I like it a lot~!

downtime

2011-07-14T12:52:00.003-05:00

I was tremendously surprised at how much energy I had while going to/staying in TX.

But yesterday I hit the wall:

Aside from getting all of my recycleables and garbage curbside (road side?) yesterday morning, I have pretty much been zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz-ing! I had high hopes of organizing my spice cupboard on Wednesday morning, but it stayed like this until today (what day is it anyway?):

CG and I found The Container Store so I purchased the spice rack I had been looking at online. Boy, was that a bugger to hang - sometimes the simplest things turn into a HUGE project:

Speaking of simple... here's a simple pleasure I received when I came back:

These are the two geraniums that survived the winter. Seeing them thrive makes me happy!

WE MADE IT (part 2)

2011-07-12T11:38:00.005-05:00

Saturday, July 9 - Wichita, KS to Commerce, TX

After a nice night in Wichita (nose strips and mouth guard must have worked) we continued on to Oklahoma City, OK:

I remember the red soil (dirt? rocks?) from previous trips to OK when I was younger. A LOT younger:

I also liked these rock formations even though this one has a spoon sitting on it:

Yay for us! Finally in TX! Here's where things got a little off course and we ended up taking a very round about scenic route to our destination (read: we drove in a circle for two hours)

It was also VERY hot. WARNING: graphic female image below...

So... either CG is really hot or she was boiling water for tea. Either could have been true at this point. Oh my --- CG is truly a hoot.

I am not sure you can imagine how happy we were to see this:

And dang it, I stopped taking pics here. When we arrived at Commerce, I said "ohhh, I will have plenty of time to take pics of the college later". Yeah, right. So here's what the college looks like [credit] as you are driving into town:

There is clearly a lot more to be said re our trip, CG's apartment, the Sam Rayburn Highway, and how TX knows only two speeds which are 60 mph and 70 mph no matter if you are in a big city or driving through a small country community. But that's enough for right now. I need a down day and possibly a nap. :-)

WE MADE IT! (part 1)

2011-07-12T00:56:00.002-05:00

We made, safe and sound, to Commerce, TX.
Not sure I have the energy for more than just pics tonight...

Here is our route, approximate times and miles:

Friday, July 8 - Mpls to Wichita

Kansas City, KS:

Wichita here we come!

My first (and probably last) visit to Sonic. They are everywhere!

Kansas Turnpike:

All ready for bed with precautions in place:

... more exciting trip news (ha!) tomorrow...

Message to my Seeester and Bro

2011-07-06T21:32:00.002-05:00

I have not been able to access my school email. I need to physically go to school and change my password (which I will do tomorrow)
You can email me at becali9@yahoo.com and I will get your email (or call)
Toyota is not finished
Trip is postponed until Friday am
Daughter is having a very (very!) stressful time (can't say that I blame her)
Mother is a close second
Plates and all "business" is taken care of and document is in the mail
"New" daughter car Insurance is effective as of 1:00 am on 7/6/2011
HOPEFULLY car will be done at 4:00 pm tomorrow. I will then drive the car to daughter, let her pack it while I go to a hotel to sleep (mutual decision that daughter needs to pack alone otherwise she will POP)
Mouth guard and anti-snore nose strips are purchased for close quarters in hotel room
uummmm... I think that's it. I HOPE that's it!

Just tryin' to stay sane :-) LB was home last night and this morning and that was nice. She's the cool, calm, and collected one now days.................

ETA: LB told me that CB's old room (white room) looks like something from a haunted house.
Lovely.

Jonah?

2011-07-02T14:34:00.001-05:00

Does the name Waldo Deifendorfer mean anything to you?

Does the following pic refresh your memory?

I haven't seen The Big Valley for years and years and years, but I remember this episode featuring Waldo Diefendorer/Marty Allen (credit).

Here's the synopsis of the episode:

Things start going wrong with the fruit harvest when Waldo comes on the scene. The ranch hands firmly believe he's "jonah" and pressure Nick to fire him.

Now, what does this have to do with me? I am not sure...

Today was dump day!

Actually, a pretty successful dump trip as it cost me only $8.00 and the "dump nazi man" was very nice to me today. The only thing they could not take was a flourescent bulb which I forgot to remove from an old fixture.

Sooooo... I pull up in the driveway, turn off the truck, and put the seat back (something brother Craig taught me to do IF I wanted to drive his new VW) and POP SMOKE - aggghhhhh! Yep, the seat broke the bulb. I got OUT OF THERE very quickly. Before I went back to assess the damage, I did this:

It isn't too bad of a mess...

But SERIOUSLY? I take full credit for this stupid move but I can't seem to catch a break for NOTHIN' lately. And now I am wondering... do I REALLY want to climb on the ladder and paint the basement ceiling? Something is telling me it may be wiser to take a nap - I'm just sayin'.

storm damage

2011-07-02T08:25:00.003-05:00

We had high winds here last night and unfortunately, this happened:

I was in LB's room and heard the noise. I was able to move the table there so [hopefully] no further damage would be done. DANG - whyyyyy didn't I have the door hooked?
(The table is there to stabilize the door so it won't fall over)

I'm glad my "handy man" is scheduled to come on Tuesday - I sure hope he is handy enough to repair this!

It's the DURING that's the problem

2011-07-01T16:11:00.002-05:00

I don't so much mind the before and I get a LOT of satisfaction from the after. But the "during" is often times overwhelming. Here's a simple lamp - BEFORE - one piece - no problem:

But the "during" is ugly:

I put each piece in order of the way they need to go back on and took many pictures.

Here's more "during":

Actually, it's a lot of "during". I am painting shelves for the laundry and storage room, painting a storage cabinet for the laundry room, painting several picture frames, painting the vent that goes on the furnace, and finally, painting the wooden lamp pieces. The shelves are taking a lot of time!

In between waiting for the shelves to dry, I wanted to try out my new floor paint!

I need to do the floor in sections because I can't move the washer and dryer too far- blech! I pulled the dryer out and painted behind it and the hot water heater. I also painted around the water softener and furnace. Next, I will paint under/behind the washer.

Here's the million dollar question...
??????? How do I drag the dryer and washer back into position without marring the new floor paint?????

direction

2011-06-30T09:50:00.000-05:00

I've certainly been lacking direction and focus this last week and nothing (nothing!) is getting accomplished.

I did mow the noxious weeds that are my lawn yesterday.

I guess I should start painting the storage area walls and floor so I can re-organize and empty the other basement areas. And THEN, I can finish up both sides.

Hhmmm... is it too lofty of a goal to accomplish this before I leave for Texas next week?

Toyota Update UPDATE

2011-06-29T15:45:00.001-05:00

Last I wrote, I left with this thought:

Let's hope with the repairs that have been made, we will make it safely to Texas and the Toyota will run problem free for two more years.

(Who am I kidding?)

Well... the Toyota didn't even make it home from Madison. I broke down on Sunday night in Tomah and the car had to be towed to West Salem. It seems that something broke on the final drive unit in the transmission and it's another expensive fix.

There's more (a lot more) to the story but let's just say that it's been a very dramatic three days.

Argh.

Toyota Update

2011-06-23T19:42:00.003-05:00

With one exception, I believe the Toyota is ready for CG.

Outside - washed and waxed:

Inside - fixing the sun damage... the fabric in the back window was disintegrated, so I replaced it. The top of the back seat was broken apart so I used fabric there too as a temporary fix. I think CG will get a blanket to put there instead:

Inside - vacuumed, cleaned and Armoralled:

Inside - new seat covers, mats, and steering wheel cover:

Trunk - this was a horrible mess. Moldy and stinky and rusty. The spare tire was covered with rust, and the wheel well(?) was also coated with rust. I scrubbed it and then spray painted it:

It will be interesting to see how much CG can stuff in here:

The only thing I wasn't able to do was steam clean the seats and the carpet. I loaned my steam cleaner to a friend and it came back to me with a broken belt. I've not been successful yet finding a replacement belt.

I did the best I could for CG. Let's hope with the repairs that have been made, we will make it safely to Texas and the Toyota will run problem free for two more years.

(Who am I kidding?)

CG's Room

2011-06-23T17:21:00.001-05:00

It was very difficult to photograph this room.

The room is so small, that all I can get a decent picture of are the windows.
I stood on a chair to take this:

And then stood on the bed to take this pic:

It's not a fantastic room, but there are good things about it:

Light and airy
not too much furniture which makes it look a tad bigger I hope
I didn't buy anything for this room - used what I had on hand
There are some sentimental types of things in here that I like:

and here (those are CG and LB in the picture):

It looks better in person. And, good enough for now.

Back in Business

2011-06-23T14:49:00.002-05:00

Laundry room, ceiling and walls are d-o-n-e!

Today I was able to get out the roller for the second coat - oh happy day! It sure beats hand painting pipes and ceiling nooks and crannies.

Everything is hooked up, load of laundry done, no leaks - back in business.
In no way shape or form is this room complete, but YAY, the painting in here is finished!!!

bit by bit

2011-06-22T19:46:00.000-05:00

Post could be alternately titled, "If you are tired of reading about it, I am doubly tired of doing it."

enough for one day

2011-06-21T16:36:00.002-05:00

Getting this shelf off was a HUGE challenge. Look at that gross wall - ew! But, I have tools and I know how to use them (even if it did take me an hour...)

In between cleaning basement floors and painting, I also managed to get some spray painting done while I was waiting for paint to dry. The sun actually came out.

Painting the ceiling and all that is ON the ceiling is verrrry tedious:

Much better!

Also challenging was installing the new dryer exhaust. The guy at Menards told me that even though they sold plastic venting, that "all dryers that are sold have a warning on them NOT to use the plastic tubing." So, it was more difficult than it needed to be. Here is a pic of the top joint (duct tape is covering that metal fastener thingie) - it's not real pretty:

And, here is the bottom:

I am pretty sure I did it right, but if you see anything obviously wrong please let me know. Tomorrow.

Done for today and here is the result of my very slooooow progress. If you look behind the water heater you can see the contrast between old paint and new paint:

I will continue along with this project - I need to work in sections and I also need to remind myself that Rome wasn't built in a day. Here's what I want for floor paint (not sure of color) and then I may add these little things just because they look fun.

As I said, enough for one day and time to pick up the Toyota.

Thank Heavens for My Big Brothers

2011-06-21T10:31:00.003-05:00

Those of you who actually read this blog probably already know about the water in my basement storage area this weekend (after a heavy rain on Saturday night). See how the paint is peeling up in certain spots? And, see that northeast corner?

After consultation with BB1 (big brother #1) who offered good advice and a plan, I did get the water off the basement floor, and got that area all dried up~! It rained pretty heavy again last night and there was NO water to be found down there. Yay!

I think this was the culprit:

Well, actually it was I who am the culprit because I did not have the extension attached to the downspout. BB2 (big brother #2) saved the day on that one. BB2 also spent a lot of time (and yucky mess) looking at my floor drain (which proved to be fine) and then fixing another (isolated) problem with the air conditioner water runoff. And then he went on to look at my dryer venting and told me I needed to CLeAN OUT THE LINT. I am in the process of doing so. Aye, aye sir~! (Personally, I think BB2 wants to run far, far away from my house because of the gazillion problems and work that needs to be done. That's OK - sometimes I do too.)

Soooo... when BB2 left on Sunday, here's what the laundry area looked like:

Can we all say, "ewwwwwwww"? Oh yeah, it gets better (worse?):

As long as everything is torn up in there, I thought I'd begin this morning by trying to clean the floor. Ohhhhh myyyy what a mess! But it's better, see?

Hmmm... maybe you can't tell. But at least it's clean now, and ready for floor paint.

I have a dream for my laundry room. It involves that "structure" I posted the other day, LOTS of white paint, and this:

My goal for today is to break out the white paint on the area behind the dryer. Then I will hook up all of the NEW venting I bought which I will attach to the thoroughly vacuumed and cleaned dryer. The floor will be painted after I am sure my water problems are a thing of the past. So yeah, wish me luck, eh?

A couple more updates... the Toyota is at the shop and the odor is 90% GONE. BB2 also helped me carry the dressers up to CG's room, so I can finish in there. Lastly, my "circles" are doing great!

THANK YOU to my Big Brothers! I appreciate MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY the fact that I can call on you for help when I need it.

Can you guess?

2011-06-18T20:22:00.001-05:00

Any ideas what this lovely item may be? Or what it may turn into?

And no, EPIC FAIL isn't a good guess - ha!

And here is a tiny glimpse of progress:

FAIL

2011-06-18T09:21:00.000-05:00

Sublime?

I think not.

FAIL!

here we go again...

2011-06-16T11:39:00.000-05:00

CG Weekend

2011-06-14T10:47:00.004-05:00

CG was home all weekend (she just left this morning) and we had a nice visit. I did manage to get a few things started, and also discovered this...

This is CG's closet. Yes, yet another closet to sort through and empty. But, it won't be as bad as the basement closet. That is for SURE!

I also finished the painting I started. Unfortunately, because there is no one around to help move the very heavy dressers up the steps and into the house, here is the current painting dresser project status:

Welcome to the world of "worse before better".

A few miscellaneous little projects are in the works... as I have mentioned, spray paint is my FRIEND!

I am looking all around for this product as I have several frames with glass I'd like to re-purpose into decorative mirrors - still trying to "use what I have" you see...

And finally, my big bro was correct about this year's later growing season. Here is my blooming honeysuckle almost exactly two weeks after last year's May 31 bloom:

The hummingbirds have arrived, the birds are splashing in the birthbath, and my seeds are sprouting! Still a little cool, but I will TAKE it!

CG and I had a good time this weekend! We took care of the car repair, went out to lunch, had good conversations, went out for breakfast and also went to a movie. Ohhhhh... good thing I didn't cart the stuff to GoodWill yet as it turns out CG was upset I included the yellow/white gingham bridesmaid dress which was one of her FAVORITE dress up outfits. Guess I will be digging through the bags to rescue it!

Beware - if you stop over, I will be asking you to help me carry two heavy dressers up a steep set of stairs

I Conquered

2011-06-10T12:30:00.004-05:00

See? I told you there was a closet!

After cleaning it out, I decided this closet would be a great place for the decorating items, pictures, etc. that I have and don't want to part with. Yet. I will do some more weeding after I am certain I don't want to re-use anything else.

At least it's organized now and I know what is in here~!

One More Time! Another load to GoodWill, not yet loaded as it's too rainy to put the convertible top down.

I also filled 5 or so large totes with CG and LB baby clothes, nursery items, and homemade items the Grandmas made for the girls.

So I guess I "conquered", huh? After I find a home in the storage area for the miscellaneous items in this room, I will paint the walls, deep clean the carpet, and then decorate it enough to make it look inviting and "homey". I guess this will do as a "before" picure:

And, after that?

clean the water damage remains from the half bathroom
replace/repair the ceilings in basement and half bathroom
clean out and organize the laundry and storage areas
and... my BIGGEST challenge will be to paint the floors and walls of the laundry area and basement storage area! I must make those areas look not just "better" but GOOD.

I'm up for the challenge!

I came. I saw. I ...

2011-06-09T09:25:00.002-05:00

This.
THIS is what happens when, well... I don't know. Hhhmmm...
When:

you are a mom who keeps too many baby clothes
you are a mom who keeps too many baby toys
you are a mom who let her oldest daughter take over the sewing area
you are a mom who's daughter did a LOT of rummage saling (how do you spell that?) for fabric
you are a mom who didn't make her daughter clean up the mess
you are a mom who hasn't even looked at this closet for years

Are you ready?

See that artificial ficus tree in the corner? Behind it is a closet, and all around it is the decorations, etc. from LB's room to be used in the basement. Soon.

When I started this morning, I couldn't even walk into the closet. Here's the doorway, and you will have to trust that there actually IS a closet here.

And, here is where I am after about two hours of work:

I've been sorting through baby clothes and toys and blankets. There are LOTS of memories inside those bags - blankets made by Grandmas. Matching dresses sewed by me. Big Sister and Little Sister sweatshirts. Dolls made by Aunties. Clothes made by Aunties. Crocheted everything made by my mom. It's kind of a bittersweet thing today... and I will get it all sorted out by days end.

TBC

Early Bird

2011-06-08T13:23:00.002-05:00

"The early bird gets the worm."

-- or, in my case, the early bird wakes up the neighborhood at 8:00 a.m. by mowing the grass in the back yard. I can't feel too terribly bad about that though, as I've been woken up a time or two by the loud hollering of dog's names. Regardless, I've become "that" neighbor. Maybe. Ha!

It's amazing what one can accomplish when waking early. For instance, I've been wanting to paint this old thing for awhile. Yesterday I found some red paint and today I got it done. Even though moss roses aren't really considered a perennial in this zone, this milk jug thingie grows moss roses every year! I didn't want to paint too far down in there because I didn't want to kill the mess of moss rose budlets.

As long as I had my painting groove on, and because the driveway was still shady, I stained:

And spray painted - I have a cool idea for those [now] white frames, which I hope works out. Actually, those "frames" are from the canvas I painted on here. We will see how "re-purposing" savvy I really am if my project works out.

Last week, the body shop replaced the front bumper of my car. Remember why? So, today I decided to wash the dirty old thing so the front and the back would actually match. Ahhhhh, I love the $5.00 car wash here in the city of apples. That pressure washing is great for the car tires and the carpeted mats too.

This was the last thing I did [so far] today. The outside waxing, inside washing, armoral-ing. leather seat cleaning, and vacuuming will need to wait until tomorrow as the sun is now hitting the driveway.

Yesterday I took the day "off" aside for ONE thing - I put on my mask and washed a portion of the deck. After that I rented a couple of movies, vegged out, and slept for the rest of the day. No wonder I was an early bird this morning... ANYWAY, before I mowed this morning (while waiting for 8:00 a.m. to arrive) I washed the same portion of the deck. The only thing the deck wash is doing is removing the green mold. Otherwise, it's a lost cause. See?

This is horrible! I think I need to rent a pressure washer... do you think that would do the trick? I certainly don't want to apply stain to this.

I am not sure if I am done for the day or not. Even though it's 90 degrees, it doesn't seem so hot... I could easily mow the front yard, but with our lack of rain it will burn out. Best to let it get a little longer.

p.s. My LEG is healing quite nicely (smiling at you bro!)

p.s. again - I am wondering when a certain apple blog may be updated (?)

it might not seem like much...

2011-06-06T16:04:00.002-05:00

It might not seem like much of an accomplishment but you'll have to trust me when I tell you it is.

Some facts:

it's hot. Maybe 95 degrees hot.
there are 23 little circles in the pic below
each circle was created by shoveling (yep, digging dirt)
then, preparing each circle was on-my-knees-with-a-little-rake type of work
finally, the seed planting required more "visits" to the 23 little circles

I actually thought I might clean the deck today after I got done planting. It really needs it, see?

But, I am showered and done for the day. I will go out later on and water my "circles" again. But for now, it's time to get something to eat and relax. Besides, I am INJURED!

I had an encounter with a lilac bush. You see, I lost my balance while shoveling (I hit a rock) and fell back into the bush. Since the lilac lost a limb and I just got a few scratches, I'd say I came out ahead. You think?

it gets worse before it gets better

2011-06-05T18:57:00.001-05:00

9:30 a.m. - load 1 to Good Will

10:30 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

12:15 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

2:30 p.m. - load 2 to Good Will and a bit of shopping

4:30 p.m. - I learned how to do this, and then I did this:

5:45 p.m. - this wouldn't hold water anymore, sooo...

6:15 p.m. - and, this ugliness always bugs me.

soooo...

and, that was enough for today!

Inside Work Today

2011-06-04T16:39:00.004-05:00

My back is still a little burned and definitely needed NO sun, so today I did inside work.

I've had this dresser forever and wanted to use it in CG's room. CG's room has her antique white headboard, so I am going with a very neutral white and beige theme.

My intent is to use/repurpose things I ALREADY own!

I thought this piece had some really cool flourishes and I love (love!) the drawer pulls. But truly? It isn't worth much as the side wood veneer is pulling away from the base, so I really had nothing to lose, right?

So, the painting begins...

This guy is gonna need more than two coats! Also, I am TRYING to be a little artsy here by using walnut stain to contrast the nooks and crannies of the piece. Can you tell?

It's the latest FAD you know in BlogLand so I had to try my hand too! I decided to paint this piece too...

Can I tell you how much easier spray painting is? Sheesh! (no stain on this one yet)

The next step is to use sandpaper to kind of rub off some of the finish. Seems counter productive doesn't it? But like I said, it's the latest!

Hopefully, the next time you see these pieces will be the AFTER shot of CG's room!

wow is it HOT out there!

2011-06-03T14:44:00.001-05:00

It's only 2:00 p.m. and I am done working for the day.
It's hot. I am sun burned. I have had enough for now.

Here's where I started this morning:

I've been thinking/pondering/considering what to do with the emptier side of the garden.

Generally, I plant squash, pumpkins, other veggies on that side. But I never use them and it's a waste. So I am switching to flowers. Today, I finalized a plan and began the process.

I added another "pathway" and muched all of the previous ones. The next step is to plant seed annuals in circular "bunches" around the curves of the new path, and also to add perennials here and there as I find them on clearance. There are some larger perennials growing in there right now too. Eventually, I will have enough perennials where I will plant seed flowers "here and there".

And then? It will be much, much easier to maintain!

I am done for the day, but satisfied with my progress.

How wonderful that the hot and sunny humid summer is here! I am lovin' it!

It's A Start

2011-06-02T17:50:00.002-05:00

According to last year, I am two days behind schedule.

Last year I invested in 10-15 geranium plants. My plan was to winter them in the basement.

Plan failed aside from two plants that are still alive - up there in the middle.

Soooo, this year I took the cheap-petunia-route.

I generally spend way too much on flowers. This year I behaved myself.

All but for this:

Last year at this time, the honeysuckle on this trellis was in full bloom. This year I don't even see any buds.

Guess I am not the ONLY one who's late this year.

ETA: $30.00 for the flowers and $3.50 for the planting soil.

zipless

2011-06-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately, the zip went out of my doo da.

It must be time to nap!

credit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah

Done!

2011-05-31T23:13:00.002-05:00

For better or for worse, I am done!

ETA: I re-used some oak frames I already had. I had purchased the canvases and paints years ago. So, the total [new] cost of this project was $0.00.

Not only spray painting season...

2011-05-30T13:43:00.002-05:00

I've been wanting to start this project for some time now. Trying to find art to match the room (aka LB's room) has been even more of an incentive.

My idea was to use two canvases and acrylic paint I already had, to create something to hang above the bed. Here is the design on the comforter I was trying to copy:

I drew the designs out in pencil. I used to be good at this. hhmmm...

After that, I started painting. I've never painted on canvas before, so it sure is an experiment.

Obviously, I've got much more to do on this, but I am crossing my fingers it will turn out and I don't take it all to the dump!

Happy Memorial Day!

It's Spray Painting Season!

2011-05-28T14:59:00.004-05:00

Rather than giving this old rotary phone to GoodWill, I decided to spray paint it and see if I liked it.

I do!

And, it even works.

Spray paint provides almost instant gratification. It's right up there with bleach, spray starch, and that wheelie painting thing.

ETA: I bought this phone in Lanesboro, MN back in 2005 when I attended a festival there to watch CG being a "princess" in her first AppleFest parade. 1/3 can of spray paint makes the total cost about $1.25.

what I've been doing

2011-05-28T10:12:00.002-05:00

Sleeping
Getting my project on - this includes thinking and listing everything I need to do this summer. Yep, it's overwhelming but when it gets too bad, I just take a nap.
Three (?) years ago I upgraded my three screen doors. Since about week two they've never latched correctly. I even bought the more expensive doors which had a key lock on them. I called the guy who installed them. It helped for a bit. This year I finally gave up. It is imperative to get some airflow through this house (basement) yet I don't want to leave the doors unlocked. It was different when PJ was around to alert me, so alas....

When I am not sleeping I am probably reading. Lately I've been inspired by home organization blogs. Who'd a thunk? So I cleaned my closet and added extra space with two of those double hanging rod expanders. Can you believe I actually got rid of THREE big garrbage bags of clothes. I know, I know... go through it all again, right?

I discovered these shelf dividers too. Wow - I have plans! This closet, the linen closet, every closet...

I also purchased some under the bed shoe storage bags. These are the "As Seen On TV" ones only rather than $19.99, they were $2.97 on clearance. I probably have well over fifty pairs of shoes and boots. Perhaps more.
Outside? Funny you asked. Ummm... well... I set my mower on the highest setting and mowed through over a foot (more like 16") of grass in the backyard. Then it rained. Today I hope to set the mower down to normal, bag it, and then use the grass to get started on my garden. Outside is a weedy mess. Yep, it really looks like this. Nice lilacs though.

One day at a time...

My Oldest GRADUATES!

2011-05-24T08:18:00.003-05:00

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Hamline University ~ St. Paul, MN

This was the write up in the Commencement Book .

Here is CG giving her graduation speech.

She spoke PERFECTLY - !

What a fantastic job up there!

After the ceremony.

The new graduate.

CG and two of her good friends.

PROUD MOM pic!

Me and the new (beautiful, profound, recognized, educated and GAWgeous) graduate.

Posing with her grad cake at her party.

The party was in a park. In a shelter.

All around us were sirens going off because of tornado sightings in the surrounding areas.

Not exactly the kind of excitement we were planning for!

ETA: No updates forthcoming as I will be sleeping for a week.

My Youngest GRADUATES!

2011-05-18T09:41:00.004-05:00

Saturday, May 15, 2011 ~ University of MN ~ Minneapolis

New Graduate and sister - what a happy day!

College of Liberal Arts

There she is! :-)

LB's diploma

Proud, PROUD mom and beautiful (gawgeous, smart, degreed and educated) daughter.

Graduation Celebration at Wasabi Fusion in Mpls.
LB has AWESOME friends - it was soooo much fun.

Birthday Thoughts

2011-04-08T08:36:00.000-05:00

Boulder, CO: April 9, 1980 ~ my 21st birthday

I believe this was the birthday my sister (seeester) bought me the grape ivy.

That grape ivy meant a lot to me. It was beautiful! Full. Lush.

I believe my sister got it at a florist shop.

It was exactly what I wanted to spruce up the not-so-lovely apartment.

It was something that cost a bit of money; something I could not afford myself as those were the ketchup and rice days of my life.

My sister told me she specifically asked the florist for a plant that was "hardy" aka "difficult to kill."

I so loved that grape ivy.

Maybe too much. I think I gave it too much water.
It got sick, and then it died.
And I felt soooooo bad.
So, so bad.

This morning I was sitting in my living room, zoning in and out and contemplating life.

And then, all of a sudden I noticed it.

And it came to me that perhaps, after all these years, I have learned something after all.

Disassociating & De-Personalizing

2011-04-03T17:36:00.008-05:00

This is not easy. This is hard. This is very, very hard.

1. Disassociate Yourself With Your Home.

•Say to yourself, "This is not my home; it is a house -- a product to be sold much like a box of cereal on the grocery store shelf. •Make the mental decision to "let go" of your emotions and focus on the fact that soon this house will no longer be yours. •Picture yourself handing over the keys and envelopes containing appliance warranties to the new owners! •Say goodbye to every room. •Don't look backwards -- look toward the future.

2. De-Personalize.

Pack up those personal photographs and family heirlooms. Buyers can't see past personal artifacts, and you don't want them to be distracted. You want buyers to imagine their own photos on the walls, and they can't do that if yours are there! You don't want to make any buyer ask, "I wonder what kind of people live in this home?" You want buyers to say, "I can see myself living here."

credit: http://homebuying.about.com/od/sellingahouse/ht/homeprep.htm

Facebook Conversation - for my Seeester

2011-03-30T17:19:00.012-05:00

I thought you (seester) might enjoy the fun and games your family is having on Facebook. Your brothers have recently been posting lots of [old] pics. Obviously, many that CG and LB have never seen before. You'll need to expand this pic if you'd like to read the conversation.

Know what's sad? I look more like mom than myself. Ugh.

Putting On My Big Girl Panties (again and again and again...)

2011-03-24T08:17:00.011-05:00

UPDATE: Saturday, March 26th

On Thursday, I called Randy, my "car guy" who told me I should probably take my car to a body shop. As in I was going to need to spend $$$$$$ to repaire it. Grrr. After that, I was feeling kind of hhmm... pissy about the whole thing. I mean sheeesh! All I did was park, right? So, I filed an incident report at the college.

Yesterday, I had an estimate done at the body shop to the tune of $1,031.95. This estimate includes replacing the entire front panel. And by the way, the body guy was reasonably impressed with my MOP rigged up scarf/bag/rope, although he did tell me to get that plastic bag away from the motor, and no, the front panel won't fall off. Probably. "Oh, let's look underneath it so I can try to make sure that it won't fall off..." We also had a good conversation about the superior qualities of screws and nuts vs. those stupid plastic pins. Note: it was later discovered as the reason the front panel was staying in place was because of a few well placed screw/nuts. Duh.

If the college will not pay, I do have a Plan B which is less expensive. I shouldn't need to spend any money, right? So, will wait to see what the college has to say next week. One thing that did happen? The college is removing the cement barricades from those parking stalls. ha!

-----------------------------------------------------

It started on Tuesday afternoon when I left school.

My car sits very low to the ground. On this particular day, I found a parking spot that had one of those cement barricades in front of it. Finding a parking spot is an entirely different story, but I digress.

When backing out, I heard a scraaaaaaaape-iing sort of noise. When getting out to investigate, I noticed a BIG THING sticking out of the cement barricade. It was one of those huge spike thingies that are used to secure the barricade to the ground. Apparently, the spike had caught on the undercarriage of my car. Everything looked ok, so I drove home.

The next day on my way to work in the slushy rain/snow mix, I heard a noise. Hmmm... I thought it was the slush accumulating under the car, as the noise would become louder when I drove over high spots in the road.

This time, after investigating I found that the front panel was pulling away from the car.
Exhibit A:

I couldn't do anything more about it because I needed to get to class. But I did worry about it, and wondered, "gee... if that is loose is there a possibility that the whole panel will come off when I am driving down the road? Will I drive over it, ruin it, need to spend money to replace it, and possibly cause an accident?" I decided it was important to see exactly how that panel was connected to the rest of the car to make sure this didn't happen.

Wednesday afternoon, after school I investigated. It is important to note here that it was snowing. Ahhh, more than snowing it was raining/sleeting. And there were huge puddles in the lot. Ok.

While standing in said puddle, I popped up the hood and saw that plastic "screws" held the piece in place. All was well? Ummm... not really. When reversing, I STILL heard that sound. Again, out to investigate, this time looking underneath the car. And that is when I saw it.

Exhibit B:

This thing (I've NO idea what it is called) was dragging on the ground under my car. It was still attached to something or other, but "hanging" and dragging. It needed to come OFF before I ruined it by dragging it, drove over it, and/or it pushed up into the engine somehow.

Have you ever knelt in the parking lot in puddles while snowing/sleeting the wind blowing and your glasses fogging up while trying to see exactly HOW that thing was connected? Arghhh. As it turned out, it was attached by those plastic nail thingies. One popped out very easily, but the other? I fought with that (in the puddle/rain/snow) for hhmmm... 45 minutes? After searching around for some sort of tool, I found this!

Exhibit C:

I thought I could pry the plastic nail, but what ended up happening was sawing THROUGH the nail. I'd like to take a moment here to thank Menards for the tool (a free birthday gift!)

So I sawed, and sawed. Finally, finally it came loose so I could remove that piece. Here is what I was sawing.

Exhibit D:

Whew! I was relieved to get that out of there. But now that I had seen just how cheesy those plastic "nails" were, I still worried that the whole front panel would come off. So, again, I opened up the hood and decided to do what I could to make sure this didn't happen.

Exhibit E:

Yes, you do see a scarf tied to a Walmart bag, tied to [what was a beautiful] white cloth. Isn't it resourceful? Innovative? See those plastic screw heads? I no longer trust them. After securing the front panel I felt confident enough to drive home.

Can I say that while I was kneeling in the puddle for 45 minutes, not ONE person asked what I was doing, or if I needed help?

Can I say that sometimes there is a good reason to have some "junk" in the car in case you need to create a faux rope?

Can I say that I am really sick and tired of wearing my Big Girl Panties?

Can I say that I look just plain awful?

But there is one thing I was thankful for - at least it wasn't dark!

Edited to add: It was a fluke that my camera was in the car so I could document this. Guess it was meant to be, huh?

Spring Break Past and Present

2011-03-17T18:22:00.007-05:00

A blog serves several purposes for me. Today, it's been a record of my Spring Breaks throughout the last several years.

2005: This was the year CB graduated
2006: I have NO idea
2007: I spent this break driving from here to Tomah (pretty much every day) because Dad was in the VA Hospital recovering from the flu.

2008: Painted CB's Room

2009: Not much of anything aside from this and preparing to make LB's room into a "safari room" (ha!)

2010: I made ONE post in March last year. I think I was still recovering from Fall Semester 2009 aka "the semester from hell"

Which brings us to this year...

Here's LB's room before. I always forget to take the BEFORE pic until the room is pretty much torn apart. But, at least the paint colors are evident.

Same view, after.

And, another view.

Certainly not done, but getting there. The "pretend pillow" is the fabric which will become curtains of some kind. I haven't decided yet what kind. I really like the bedding - not sure if it looks as good in a pic. How's that for neutral?

And here's CG's room.
Her bed is back and right now, it's the only thing in her room.
This was where all of the furniture in LB's room was, so I had to pull this stuff up from the basement. My back is ever so thankful for sliders!

Seeeester - pressed and STARCHED pillow cases! :-)
I have plans for this room. Again, neutral.

And all along I have been ridding and purging.
My goal? EMPTY space everywhere.

Now that everything is pretty much put back together, I will concentrate on school work yet to do. And then perhaps a little journey.

Easter Things

2011-03-16T13:30:00.003-05:00

Easter Things
To Grandma
From CG

Egg

Bunny

Flowers Bloom

tehe

Ahhhhh the CUTENESS!

CG - kindergarten? 1st grade?

What Else Don't Know I About?

2011-03-14T12:48:00.004-05:00

Best. Invention. Ever.

Right up there with bleach and spray starch!

HOPE!

2011-03-13T16:26:00.003-05:00

Yesterday and today I' ve been doing this.

I have a window open to avoid asphyxiating myself.

I heard it before I saw it.

Wayyyyy up high.

Hope.

Spring has officially arrived!

Spring?

2011-03-11T09:47:00.004-06:00

There should be a BIG question mark after Spring, like Spring?

It sure doesn't look like Spring here. But, gradually the snow is melting. I LOVE the extended daylight. I am waiting to see my first robin, for then I will know Spring has finally arrived.

My job rocks - Spring Break is fantastic. So are three months off in the summer!

I have one home improvement project planned for this week.

I will grimace when fueling up my car, but that will not stop travel to Mpls or Madison. I will probably stay overnight at least one night. That is IF the weather cooperates.

LB is leaving today for a Pay It Forward tour to the east coast. CG will be leaving a week later as a leader on a retreat to an Indian Reservation.

Life is probably as good as it is going to get for now.

I am thankful, and I am Blessed.

Don't Lie To Me - Don't Cheat - Don't MESS with Me!

2011-03-10T19:04:00.004-06:00

____,

Thank you for taking the time to meet with _____ and I this afternoon.

Accusing someone of Academic Dishonesty is not something any instructor enjoys doing. The reason we meet with the student is to gain additional insight and knowledge about the situation. We don’t necessarily want to convict you – we want to hear what you have to say.

After we concluded the meeting today, I carefully considered your explanations regarding the issues we discussed. I also discovered a few additional facts:

1. During the meeting you said you were not able to access assignment 6 [the assignment was no longer available on Blackboard] on Sunday, February 27th. I am attaching a screen printout of that assignment on Blackboard which clearly shows the assignment was available until March 1st at 12:30 AM.

2. In a previous email written on March 5th you stated,

“Now, all I need to know is what my punishment is and if *your going to drop
me from your class, because If you do I will probably have to move out of the
dorms for not being full time.”

* note spelling error

I looked at your Spring 2011 Semester Schedule and saw that you have already dropped a class this semester which would put you at 10 credits. Obviously, you were not being honest in your email because your status as a full time student had already been compromised before the discussion about ONLINE Intro to Programming. On further investigation I learned since you are not a full time student, action may be taken to evict you from the dorm. You should speak with ____ _____regarding this problem.

3. In the email referenced above you wrote that you would not be able to meet with me face-to-face because,

“ I'm going to be gone the next 2 weeks.”

Yet, you were able to meet with me today.

____, we have already discussed it was clearly written in the syllabus that I reserved the right to drop you from class if you had not completed three consecutive assignments. You have not completed assignments 5-8.

You insist that you did not cheat/copy/use someone else’s code on the exam and assignments we discussed, yet both myself and another programming instructor agreed that what you and your friend submitted are way too close for just “helping” one another.

I had hoped during our meeting today that you could have explained the issues at hand. I had hoped I could offer you the benefit of doubt. Unfortunately, I discovered additional reasons to not believe you. In conclusion, I do not condone Academic Dishonesty and I have a very difficult time believing the truth in your words and actions. Therefore, you will receive an F in this class.

As I mentioned in our meeting, you have every right to talk to the Dean about this issue. I have included him in this email.

Signed,

Disgusted Me
(who wasted a whole lot of time and effort on this meeting and on you)

Spring Break

2011-03-09T21:37:00.000-06:00

Countdown to Spring Break...

12 hours!

Cannot wait!

Blogs

2011-03-04T22:16:00.003-06:00

I spend a lot of time reading blogs. No, not a confession - a realization. Aside from being one-sided communication, I think it may be a good thing. I'm learning a lot. Living here in this little fishbowl in MN, living my day-to-day life, I could tend to think that this is all there is. But, far - very far - from it.

I read blogs about children who suffer from RAD and I give thanks that my daughters will never know how it feels to suffer attachment issues. I think about RAD and realize that sometimes (perhaps often?) love is not enough. Love is not a cure all.

I am exposed to the thoughts and emotions of people who are living homosexual lifestyles. I am learning that even though I do not agree with their lifestyle, that I am not to judge. Judging is not my job! I can respect someone's opinion even though I disagree with that aspect of their life.

I read about the daughter who is caring for her mother in her home because her mother has alzheimers. And, I am reminded about when my mother became the child and I became the mother. I remember that once she called me, "mom" - I remember it all.

I am learning about one woman's battle with severe bi-polar disease and become very thankful that all I have is SAD/depression/anxiety/etc. It could be worse. Much, much worse.

I follow some bloggers who travel to/volunteer/work as missionaries in remote villages. It makes me thankful for clean water, food on the table, and clothes on my back. It sickens me to read about FGM.

I even learn from Facebook - thanks mainly to CG. She posts about white privilege and topics of racism. Sometimes the information she shares causes me to cry. Sometimes I become so very incredibly angry at the injustice. But it is GOOD to be aware. It is GOOD to feel.

I read about decorating, home improvement, DIY, cooking, cake decorating. I vicariously live on a farm in Nebraska, a ranch in Oklahoma, a gorgeous southern home in Georgia. I see lifestyles of women who are retired, who have their own businesses, who are raising young children, who are empty nesters. I read online books,both Christian and secular.

Today I see the internet as a tool for learning. About other people. About other places. And about me.

Missed the Boat(?)

2011-02-25T18:16:00.007-06:00

I made a few changes to this (what seems to have become a home improvement) blog today. In looking over my posts, I came upon the photo collage I created for the kitchen. The picture of CG and LB in Puerto Vallarta captured my attention. And suddenly, I realized I had missed the boat.

CG graduated in December and is currently looking for employment in different areas of the country. LB will graduate in May, and will be moving forward in her life as well. A new job for either will not be conducive to taking a week of vacation within the first few months of starting!

It seems the last time we could have vacationed together was over our last Christmas breaks. Spring Break won't work because both girls will be occupied doing very cool things. Maybe in May?

There is a lesson to be learned here. I always knew there was a small window of time when my daughters a)would even want to vacation with their mom, and b)would have the time to do it. Now, it seems my window slammed shut while I wasn't looking.

Living in the moment is great. Failing to remember the big picture isn't.

New Light Fixtures!

2011-02-11T14:55:00.004-06:00

I finally got the new light fixtures installed today.
I LOVE them - such an improvement!
Obviously, I will now need to paint the ceiling - which will wait until summer.

I also am SO glad I took your suggestions about the rug (THANK YOU)
MUCH better now.

Kitchen: before & after

2011-02-05T18:40:00.013-06:00

Well.... here are the before and after photos.

I have a new chandelier which will get installed soon, and I am replacing the other ceiling light with a matching track lighting (kinda sorta) fixture.

Now that I see it side-by-side I am not so impressed. Hmmm...

------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTIONS:

LB says I should paint the inside of the cabinets black.

Opinions?

Or, should I re-install the doors but replace the wood "cut out" area with glass?

Sellability people????

Also, what about that range top? Couldn't I just pull the almond part off and spray paint it black (this summer) rather than buy an new stove?

------------------------------------------------------------------

The big rug - I am just not so sure the rug is $119.00 worth of what I want.

Below is a runner version of a different (much cheaper) rug I could also get in the 5x7 size.

Opinions?
OR, should I get (equally less expensive) off-white rugs?

I do like the kitchen but I think it looks better in person.

PS

Today I bought a WAY discounted bedding set for LBs room.

LBs room is NEXT on the list.

Table Scarf

2011-02-05T11:37:00.005-06:00

Here's the before shot of my table.
The wood was perfect for the previous kitchen deco theme, but wayyyy toooo orange now.

So, I made a table scarf.
SHOUT OUT to my sister (seeeeester)!
Why oh why have I never used spray starch before?
You mentioned it when you were here (re pillow cases) so I bought some.
Ohhhh the wonderfulness - ohhhh the payback for ironing! Wow, what a difference.

No more "Mr. Sprinkle". Spray starch is now right up there with my love for bleach.
Thank you, thank you, thank you seeeester!

And, after.
Perfectly sewn? Hardly - but it sure is crisp!
And the table is toned down, which is just what I wanted.

Next post will be before/after pics - yeah I know you've all (umm, my 1 or 2 readers) been on pins and needles waiting.
More importantly, I will need your help/feedback.

Later.

Collage Pics

2011-02-04T19:05:00.003-06:00

Finally printed the collage pics...
Wal-Mart online photo has all sorts of cool editing that can be applied. I went with the sepia color and think it turned out pretty nice.
Well... CG and LB look good! :-)

for my seeester and bro

2011-01-21T09:34:00.001-06:00

Don't I look like mom? ha!

Soooo s-l-o-w-l-y

2011-01-17T22:49:00.003-06:00

Little by little.
Very slowly.
Finishing.

Runner for buffet:

Decoupaging lamp shade.
Tomorrow I will add the trim.
Man, is that stuff messy. And smelly.

Little by little I will get it all done. I cannot wait to post before/after pics.
Why? Well, because it makes me feel like I've actually accomplished something! :-)

More Curtains, More Messes, and Dodge

2011-01-11T19:23:00.003-06:00

The corner sink curtains - a definite challenge.
I have been thinking and thinking about the hardware I could use.
Previously, I had spring rods in each window which of course, covered up a lot of the window.
This time, I wanted light!

Here's where I started this morning.
The ONLY way for me (being short) to install hardware, hang curtains, basically REACH any part of this area is to climb a ladder and stand on the sink.
It's not a happy place.

And because I very seldom climb a ladder to access/clean that corner area, here is what I found waiting for me when I opened one of the windows.

ALL KINDS OF NASTY going on here. Ewwwwwww~!

These are dead Asian beetles, by the way.
As I have been working on the kitchen, I have also been cleaning corners, cobwebs, cupboards, windows, flooring, and orange-oiling the woodwork. But nothing was quite as bad as this.

I think it took me almost two hours to hang the hardware.
And I broke two drill bits.
The rest of the time was spent sewing.
And I broke FOUR needles.

Finally... results!

Ignore the ugliness in the open cupboards above the sink.

I need to arrange, rearrange.

BUT aside from that, I think this side of the kitchen is complete!

Yayyyyy!

I have to return to school for an all day beginning-of-the-semester meeting on Friday.
Classes start on Monday.
Am I done with the entire project? Heck no. There are a million messes to clean up. I also want to sew a couple of table scarves.

Do I care that I am not done with the entire project? A little.
But regardless, IF the snow abates, I am getting the heck out of Dodge.

I love projects and it's turning out pretty good.
But.
It is also sucking the life out of me.
This girl needs to get out of the house!

The Making of [small] Gallery Walls

2011-01-09T13:58:00.009-06:00

I learned something from PotteryBarn.com about hanging pictures on walls.
See?

Voila.

* the collage frame obviously needs pics of "us"!

For forever, I have wanted to sit in the living room and be able to see the time.

I also wanted something eye pleasing (was SO sick of the suns).

The mirror works well here - when you are in the room it makes a big difference.

By and by, I will put just a couple of simple things on the shelf.

Here's the last one for today.

I have no more zip in my doo dah.

I need to pot some small plants in the dishware seen here.

Or, perhaps I will think of a different use for this little shelf (?)

Tomorrow is another day...

Before and After

2011-01-08T18:44:00.003-06:00

Getting ready to make a "gallery wall" (ie pound nail holes in my freshly painted walls.)

Good Will Currier and Ives print - painted frame black and added toile mat.

Friends Forever pic - was matted in purple. Changed to toile.
Good Will pic - painted frame black.

GoodWill pic - changed from brown to black.

Good Will shadow box - I liked the original colors but changed the pic. The black and white bird pic was taken out of a GoodWill book.

Starting to add to my "open cupboards" - not sure yet if I like the result or not...

Painstakingly s - l - o - w

2011-01-08T13:10:00.002-06:00

Before: buffet corner
featuring
my $120.00 beveled mirror snagged at Home Depot for a mere $20.00.
Were there a few dings on it? Yep. Did I care? Nope.
And maaaaan is that thing heavy!

Boring now - better later!

C'mon project! Come together!!!

January Project - Curtains

2011-01-06T09:09:00.004-06:00

Toile! And, a little contrast fabric to hopefully blend the flooring and cupboards.

Measuring. Cutting. Pinning. Stitching. Ironing.
I cannot believe, that in my earlier years I would spend HOURS at the sewing machine making dresses for CG and LB. Because now? It makes my shoulders and head ache. Ha!

Hanging a drapery rod is kinda tedious too.
Measuring. Drilling. Climbing up and down the ladder. Screwing. Hanging.

BUT - I do like the overall result! :-)
I am just getting a little discouraged/tired/achey about how very slowly this is all coming together! Oh, and I think I have OA (old age) with a little bit of OAA (old age attitude).

Press on Becky! You can doooooo it!

I've Got My "January" Project On

2011-01-03T09:30:00.004-06:00

I've been planning to "re-do" my kitchen since last fall, and have been waiting until this Christmas break to start. So here I am in the middle. Before and after pics will follow - sooner than later I hope!

The current mess:

Sidenote: I went neutral with the paint color because I am going to eventually/soon/whenever sell the house. Going neutral is not coming naturally to me - I like more "dramatic" paint colors. The antique white does look fresh and bright though!

Trying to 'open up' the cupboard area. If I (or the new owners) don't like it, I/they can simply reattach the cupboard doors. This area will eventually house toile pieces that I've been collecting. And of course I will cover the cord! :-)

Christmas 2010

2011-01-03T09:04:00.004-06:00

Christmas 2010 was a quick one . . .

LB worked until noon on the 24th and then left Christmas evening.

CG stayed a lot longer ~ five days!

We did all of the normal things we do, such as eat lots of chex mix, go to the candlelight Christmas Eve service, open presents, and make messes. One thing that was different this year is that I had a kitchen/oven catastrophe while making Christmas dinner. Ummm... the kitchen windows were open for hours. Kinda smokey!

Well... who would have known there would be no trees found within a 20 mile radius of the Coulee Region? And, I was EARLY this year (meaning, it wasn't Christmas Eve even!)

Plan B? A tree plant from the Home Depot that I can enjoy ALL year long.

It wasn't SO bad!

Here's the girls and the mess.

While eating Christmas dinner, I felt particularily Blessed that I could spend Christmas with LB and CG; happy that they both chose to come "home" to celebrate with me. I know these years are numbered so for now, I appreciate it all!

My Brother Has Too Much Time On His Hands!

2010-12-12T21:39:00.005-06:00

Oh my gosh!
While we are all busy doing things like this...

MY BROTHER IS BUSY DOING THINGS LIKE THIS!

AND POSTING THEM TO FACEBOOK!
He chose a very flattering pic of me, huh?

THERE'S MORE...

NOONE WAS LEFT OUT THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON.

GUESS WHO HAS TOO MUCH TIME ON HIS HANDS????

All Is Well

2010-11-07T23:11:00.001-06:00

All things considered, I believe I am having an OK semester. Without a doubt, better than last year!

PJ

2010-10-18T18:51:00.002-05:00

Been thinking about him today...

If there is a doggie heaven, the PJ Man is there.

Brother, Sister, Father

2010-10-15T11:43:00.002-05:00

Becky = baddddddd blogger! Seriously, no post for almost two months?

Last weekend my sister (and brother-in-law) visited from Colorado with their "girls" Blondie and Brunette (Bru). I enjoyed my time with my family immensely. As the pics below show, we traveled to Waunakee to see our dad.

Here he is with little Bru - she's such a sweetie. They call her "Sassy Bru" but I didn't see any sass at all. Guess she was on her best behavior.

Here's my "seeeeeeester" and bro (aka Pretty and Handsome). Bro is the one who deserves all praise and thanks for keeping our father well. He does a FANtastic job!

Bro again with myself and dad.

And, finally here is Blondie! Unfortunately, she's a little distracted but I thought it was a decent pic of my dad.

That's all I have time for now... I will try to be a better blogger but I am making no promises.