I realized I haven't updated the latest on my shower curtain compulsions. I took down Christmas and didn't even take pictures. I purchased a new one for the upstairs bathroom and have to admit I didn't like it. The snowmen looked bald - yes I know snowmen don't have hair - they were missing hats! I tried to google it and can't find it. I will add pictures later...
I had given MS a nice shower curtain as a house warming gift. I spent more on it than I would for myself :) Well since MS did a complete bathroom demolition in October and the shower curtain no longer matches, I recently asked if I could have it. Wait now, before you pass judgment, I did give him one of my other curtains that matches his new bathroom! :)
I also managed to find another shower curtain deal for the basement bathroom. I bought some new light green moss rugs to go with the curtain. Even though I seldom use that bathroom, I really like this ensemble! Since the bathroom is small, it is hard to get a picture, but I will make do.
It is also time to hang up the Valentine's Day shower curtain! Love is in the air!
Do you have any crazy compulsions or obsessions? If not, do you have any Valentine's plans?
Showing posts with label Issues. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Issues. Show all posts
Friday, February 1, 2013
Health Update: Annual & First Mammogram
It is that time of year...my annual physical which renders me with what seems like 7000 follow up appointments and feeling older by the moment. I have to admit that times have changed from my previous physical posts - much to my chagrin - I no longer needed to pee in a cup and have the cup fall in the toilet (here) like in 2009!
I really seem to be struggling with my weight and hunger. I am gaining uncontrollably and seem to have an insatiable appetite. I was referred to Weight Watchers. The doctor also checked my throat and paused during the exam. I informed her that years ago she found a nodule that was monitored for a while by ultrasounds and I no longer require appointments as there was no change over a few years. She referred me for another ultrasound as well as blood work to test my thyroid levels and cholesterol. I realized after I had blood drawn this morning since it was an inadvertent 12 hour fast, that it probably wasn't the best day to do it, since last night I went out after work and had two drinks and nachos. Oh well...my blood pressure was also extremely elevated, twice, until the girl decided to use a different cuff that fit and found that it was just fine. Sigh...
As I am quickly approaching forty, it is inevitable that the discussion of a mammogram would arise, especially since my mom is a breast cancer survivor (GO MOM!). When normal mammograms would be in the 40's, due to my mother's cancer, I was asked if I wanted one early. Of course with everything I have heard about a vice-grip contortionism of the breast, how could I refuse???
Tonight, I had my mammogram. The lady assured me that it would be better than I thought. Well hell, since I thought the worst, I was pretty sure she was right. Not that I like pain or anything when it comes to intimacy, and given what I thought was my high pain tolerance, I figured it would be a piece of cake. I was wrong.
I have never been one for public displays of my body. I have posted about whether or not I am a prude, somewhere (sorry to lazy to link). I really just imagined it would be a vice-smash photo and done. I wasn't prepared for the four photos on one breast and three on the other. I wasn't prepared for the different stances and pushing, prodding, pinching and flattening. At one point I actually bellowed in pain.
Not trying to be comforting at all, but matter of fact, the lady then says to me, "Your exam is much more painful than most." So I say, "Oh, because I have small breasts?" I mean really, I get it - I am not well endowed by any means. But to my surprise she says, "NO. Your breasts are firm. They are solid. They are not squishy at all. So I am literally pinching your muscle trying to get the entire breast."
Then as if in consolation, she says something along the lines of, "Don't worry. You will have something to look forward to. Having sagging, squishy breasts that will be less painful for mammograms."
I tried to make a joke...but seriously? Is that really something to look forward to? I think I will just handle the pain and rejoice in having firm, non-squishy/saggy boobies for the time being. Onward and upward :)
Do you have any mammogram stories you want to share? Feel free...I would love to hear them.
Especially given the fact that I was assured I will likely be receiving a call that I will need to have them re-examined, which is nothing to be concerned about, but they have nothing to compare them to. Well that is reassuring.
I really seem to be struggling with my weight and hunger. I am gaining uncontrollably and seem to have an insatiable appetite. I was referred to Weight Watchers. The doctor also checked my throat and paused during the exam. I informed her that years ago she found a nodule that was monitored for a while by ultrasounds and I no longer require appointments as there was no change over a few years. She referred me for another ultrasound as well as blood work to test my thyroid levels and cholesterol. I realized after I had blood drawn this morning since it was an inadvertent 12 hour fast, that it probably wasn't the best day to do it, since last night I went out after work and had two drinks and nachos. Oh well...my blood pressure was also extremely elevated, twice, until the girl decided to use a different cuff that fit and found that it was just fine. Sigh...
As I am quickly approaching forty, it is inevitable that the discussion of a mammogram would arise, especially since my mom is a breast cancer survivor (GO MOM!). When normal mammograms would be in the 40's, due to my mother's cancer, I was asked if I wanted one early. Of course with everything I have heard about a vice-grip contortionism of the breast, how could I refuse???
Tonight, I had my mammogram. The lady assured me that it would be better than I thought. Well hell, since I thought the worst, I was pretty sure she was right. Not that I like pain or anything when it comes to intimacy, and given what I thought was my high pain tolerance, I figured it would be a piece of cake. I was wrong.
I have never been one for public displays of my body. I have posted about whether or not I am a prude, somewhere (sorry to lazy to link). I really just imagined it would be a vice-smash photo and done. I wasn't prepared for the four photos on one breast and three on the other. I wasn't prepared for the different stances and pushing, prodding, pinching and flattening. At one point I actually bellowed in pain.
Not trying to be comforting at all, but matter of fact, the lady then says to me, "Your exam is much more painful than most." So I say, "Oh, because I have small breasts?" I mean really, I get it - I am not well endowed by any means. But to my surprise she says, "NO. Your breasts are firm. They are solid. They are not squishy at all. So I am literally pinching your muscle trying to get the entire breast."
Then as if in consolation, she says something along the lines of, "Don't worry. You will have something to look forward to. Having sagging, squishy breasts that will be less painful for mammograms."
I tried to make a joke...but seriously? Is that really something to look forward to? I think I will just handle the pain and rejoice in having firm, non-squishy/saggy boobies for the time being. Onward and upward :)
Do you have any mammogram stories you want to share? Feel free...I would love to hear them.
Especially given the fact that I was assured I will likely be receiving a call that I will need to have them re-examined, which is nothing to be concerned about, but they have nothing to compare them to. Well that is reassuring.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Auto-Correct Text
MS has an iphone and regularly uses the auto-text option. Needless to say, I often find some of his texts more than amusing. Tonight was no exception:
MS: "WTF...dude just walked up to the counter with a banana over his face. If I hadn't sort of recognized him from the other day I would have totally hit our panic button. Looked like he was about to frickin rob us!"
At this point, I was laughing hysterically (I still am!). Trying to imagine someone being scary with a banana on their face. Was it just a peel? Was it being held as a moustache or covering ones eyes?
I had never heard him mention a panic button before. Clearly how could he be almost to the point of pushing a panic button over a banana?
ME: "Nice...pharmacy robbed by an armed banana man..."
MS: "Lol, omg...that was supposed to be bandanna. Nice"
Oh how the auto-correct option entertains me!
MS: "WTF...dude just walked up to the counter with a banana over his face. If I hadn't sort of recognized him from the other day I would have totally hit our panic button. Looked like he was about to frickin rob us!"
At this point, I was laughing hysterically (I still am!). Trying to imagine someone being scary with a banana on their face. Was it just a peel? Was it being held as a moustache or covering ones eyes?
I had never heard him mention a panic button before. Clearly how could he be almost to the point of pushing a panic button over a banana?
ME: "Nice...pharmacy robbed by an armed banana man..."
MS: "Lol, omg...that was supposed to be bandanna. Nice"
Oh how the auto-correct option entertains me!
Monday, February 13, 2012
Relationship Ramblings...
As I mentioned before, tomorrow is Valentine's Day. MS and I continue to date, almost sixteen months. As MS likes to remind me, no one and no relationship is perfect.
I understand this, but I also feel that some things are non-negotiable. And yet, then I come to realize that maybe I am wrong. Maybe standards, expectations and personal beliefs may be malleable. MS and I have had two major hurdles in our relationship (with the exception of our difference in parenting styles). These hurdles, while they have been crossed, I don't feel like they have been conquered. At the core, I struggle with trust issues. MS has suggested we go to counseling. I am not sure I am ready to go there, but deep down, I know that if I am going to make a commitment, we need help. I can't continue in a relationship with one foot out the door.
MS has told me repeatedly that he would like to spend the rest of his life with me. Granted, he has been most verbal about this during our most difficult and trying times. As of late, he has decided he wants to sell his large house and move closer to me. There hasn't been any discussion of living together. Maybe he really does know me. He has researched the housing market in my area. MS loves the idea of a smaller, more affordable home that would be closer to me and allow us to see each other daily if possible. He even likes several houses on my street that are currently for sale.
While I have explored housing options with him, even so far as contacting a realtor friend to talk to him about sale options on his house. I plan to support him in anyway possible; however, maybe I don't think he will ever move. I did ask him if he would still want to live in my town if we didn't work out. He said he loves my town and would. Somehow I find this hard to believe, but I have to trust him to be honest. MS has yet to talk to his son about the possibility of moving. Wednesday the realtor will talk to him about his options, as MS feels that he will owe at least $40,000 after selling his house due to the downturn of the market when he built his house four years ago.
MS sent me a large fortune cookie for Valentine's Day (it is approximately 1200 calories and 9 servings). He said he hopes to see me Wednesday night to give me the rest of my Valentine's gift. Again, I'm not worried about a proposal. If that was his intention why would he talk and research purchasing a house for him and his son?
I'm just not sure where our relationship is heading. I really think that we both would benefit from a third party addressing both of our concerns and issues. And mom, I really don't think he is the controlling, stalker-type. And yes, I know I said that about my ex-husband too, but...I do believe that MS is different.
I understand this, but I also feel that some things are non-negotiable. And yet, then I come to realize that maybe I am wrong. Maybe standards, expectations and personal beliefs may be malleable. MS and I have had two major hurdles in our relationship (with the exception of our difference in parenting styles). These hurdles, while they have been crossed, I don't feel like they have been conquered. At the core, I struggle with trust issues. MS has suggested we go to counseling. I am not sure I am ready to go there, but deep down, I know that if I am going to make a commitment, we need help. I can't continue in a relationship with one foot out the door.
MS has told me repeatedly that he would like to spend the rest of his life with me. Granted, he has been most verbal about this during our most difficult and trying times. As of late, he has decided he wants to sell his large house and move closer to me. There hasn't been any discussion of living together. Maybe he really does know me. He has researched the housing market in my area. MS loves the idea of a smaller, more affordable home that would be closer to me and allow us to see each other daily if possible. He even likes several houses on my street that are currently for sale.
While I have explored housing options with him, even so far as contacting a realtor friend to talk to him about sale options on his house. I plan to support him in anyway possible; however, maybe I don't think he will ever move. I did ask him if he would still want to live in my town if we didn't work out. He said he loves my town and would. Somehow I find this hard to believe, but I have to trust him to be honest. MS has yet to talk to his son about the possibility of moving. Wednesday the realtor will talk to him about his options, as MS feels that he will owe at least $40,000 after selling his house due to the downturn of the market when he built his house four years ago.
MS sent me a large fortune cookie for Valentine's Day (it is approximately 1200 calories and 9 servings). He said he hopes to see me Wednesday night to give me the rest of my Valentine's gift. Again, I'm not worried about a proposal. If that was his intention why would he talk and research purchasing a house for him and his son?
I'm just not sure where our relationship is heading. I really think that we both would benefit from a third party addressing both of our concerns and issues. And mom, I really don't think he is the controlling, stalker-type. And yes, I know I said that about my ex-husband too, but...I do believe that MS is different.
The Next Great Baker : I am Not...
Today JA texted me to confirm that my alias was donned the Next Great Baker. Granted I have never watched or even heard of the show, so I have no idea what exactly reminds me of the winner. Apparently it isn't my baking skills!
I have a meeting tomorrow morning, so I decided to make some cupcakes. I had some orange frosting that I thought by adding red dye would turn red to decorate. Did I mention that last week I participated in a cupcake decorating class? Well, I have since learned that it is all about having the right tools. Even when baking.
Adding red dye to orange does not turn frosting red. And adding blue to not so red frosting only turns frosting the color of baby diarrhea. So not appropriate for Valentines Day cupcakes. Fortunately I also had white frosting in the cupboard.
Surprisingly the camera makes the hearts actually resemble red, not the dark orange they truly are. I attempted to shade the heart in red, which made a mess, so I enhanced the mess! Surprisingly my respite foster daughter chose that one as her snack!
Feeling like there is no way that I can pass off the cupcakes as being made by my three year old child I don't have, I opted to make pink frosting with the white.
While I still need some major decorating assistance, at least I won't be too embarrassed to bring this cake to the meeting. Afterall, I have no intention of quitting my day job anytime soon...
I have a meeting tomorrow morning, so I decided to make some cupcakes. I had some orange frosting that I thought by adding red dye would turn red to decorate. Did I mention that last week I participated in a cupcake decorating class? Well, I have since learned that it is all about having the right tools. Even when baking.
Adding red dye to orange does not turn frosting red. And adding blue to not so red frosting only turns frosting the color of baby diarrhea. So not appropriate for Valentines Day cupcakes. Fortunately I also had white frosting in the cupboard.
Feeling like there is no way that I can pass off the cupcakes as being made by my three year old child I don't have, I opted to make pink frosting with the white.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
G-Men & The Super Bowl
Tonight at dinner my son and I were having a discussion about who is going to win the Super Bowl. Of course I answered with the "New" team. 'Cause that's how I roll. Regardless, T started abbreviating the names of the teams. He said that the Giants are called the G-Men. He then for some reason said it would be weird for New England to be called the N-Men, at which point I inquired why they wouldn't be the P-Men.
Then T says, "So what would the chargers be called?" Not hesitating to think about it...I responded, "C-Men".
At which point my almost 15 year old son burst out laughing. I could only join in the laughter that I am getting too old to realize the joke about semen.
Then T says, "So what would the chargers be called?" Not hesitating to think about it...I responded, "C-Men".
At which point my almost 15 year old son burst out laughing. I could only join in the laughter that I am getting too old to realize the joke about semen.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Gender Inequality
Of course everyone has their own personal experiences and examples of gender inequality. Regardless that it is now 2012, gender bias is still present.
The other day, while flipping through the channels, I stopped to watch Oprah. Her shows, likely all reruns were discussing miraculous weight loss transformations. Confirming at my annual physical, I could definitely lose, a lot of weight, but I digress.
What has truly struck a cord with me, was something the Dr. had said. Paraphrasing, he said:
The other day, while flipping through the channels, I stopped to watch Oprah. Her shows, likely all reruns were discussing miraculous weight loss transformations. Confirming at my annual physical, I could definitely lose, a lot of weight, but I digress.
What has truly struck a cord with me, was something the Dr. had said. Paraphrasing, he said:
For every 35 pounds a man loses, he gains 1" in length of his penis.
SERIOUSLY? I can't seem to get past this astonishing fact. Why does it always seems that men have it better? Not only are they able to lose weight quicker, but now an additional benefit?
Why is it that if I lose 35 pounds I won't gain 1" in breast size? No, the opposite usually happens. Gain weight, gain breast size (and every other size), lose weight, lose breast size...FIRST.
So days later, I'm still truly troubled by this gender inequality. I may be so moved to even make a sign and begin a picket. Nah, I bailed on the picket fence, I clearly won't find the energy or motivation to picket over 1" per 35 pounds.
What I am curious of though, is there a maximum limit of growth? Just imagine those that have to lose 100, 200, 300...oh nevermind. :)
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Thursday, December 1, 2011
The Case of the MIA Banana Peel
Sometimes, well most of the time, my mind is going a dozen different directions at once. Many times over the past month, I have considered, even planned to blog. And obviously, I didn't. I still think maybe I will. Maybe I will go back and blog about happenings. Maybe I won't.
So after 1.5 hours of procrastinating working out (using my newly adapted Nintendo 64 on my new 32" lcd t.v. to play Galaga while I ride the stationary bike), I decided to blog. Another form of procrastination? ABSOLUTELY. I have intentions of typing a brief blog, but I feel like back story is necessary, then I realize how long it will be. Do I even bother? Then I decide, sure, why not, but where to begin?
This week has been extremely long, with two twelve hour plus days at work, meeting with six families in three days. November and December will always be strenuous as long as I maintain my current job. So, needless to say, I've been running a little thin and feeling a little disconnected. Nothing as apparent as what unfolded tonight.
Last night and this morning I had two scheduled visits with families. Both families thought that I was coming on different days. I started to question my sanity and my communication efforts. Not that I don't take responsibility for my own actions and mistakes, as I will be in Las Vegas, I clearly knew I wouldn't schedule when either family had thought. But two appointments back to back incorrect? Odd. Then again, the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is stressful and strenuous for many.
As I left my visit this morning, I contacted JA and left messages as we had planned to meet up for lunch. I was starving, so I grabbed a banana out of my purse. Seeing that I had gum, I decided to stick the gum on the banana peel as I ate the banana. I laid the banana peel on the passenger seat in the car, with the gum secured on the peel.
To be honest, I have absolutely no recollection of where the banana peel is. NONE. I still don't, hours later.
When I arrived home from work, my son asked what was on my pants. He asked if I had holey pants and if I really wore them to work. When I looked down at my pants, I had FIVE small, gooey, sticky patches of...GUM. The gum must have fallen onto my pants, which then proceeded to stick to a different part of the pant leg, repeatedly as I sat and stood and so on.
Did I mention, I still have absolutely NO idea where the banana peel is. I don't remember if I removed the peel from my work car. I would have to assume that I did, hence how the gum managed to get from inside a banana peel on the passenger seat of the car to my leg. But maybe the gum fell immediately after I consumed the banana. Which would mean that I had gum on my upper thigh throughout lunch and throughout a 2.5 hour home visit with a family and then back to the office where I sat at my desk and then to my car to come home. And...not one person mentioned a thing?
Tomorrow I will manage to back track my steps to find a now over ripe banana peel. On a side note, some ice and scraping removed the sticky gum from my dress pants.
I can only wonder what else I have managed to misplace and miscommunicate. I'm just glad for now, it was a piece of gum and a banana peel.
What types of mishaps have you had while suffering from a lack of sleep?
So after 1.5 hours of procrastinating working out (using my newly adapted Nintendo 64 on my new 32" lcd t.v. to play Galaga while I ride the stationary bike), I decided to blog. Another form of procrastination? ABSOLUTELY. I have intentions of typing a brief blog, but I feel like back story is necessary, then I realize how long it will be. Do I even bother? Then I decide, sure, why not, but where to begin?
This week has been extremely long, with two twelve hour plus days at work, meeting with six families in three days. November and December will always be strenuous as long as I maintain my current job. So, needless to say, I've been running a little thin and feeling a little disconnected. Nothing as apparent as what unfolded tonight.
Last night and this morning I had two scheduled visits with families. Both families thought that I was coming on different days. I started to question my sanity and my communication efforts. Not that I don't take responsibility for my own actions and mistakes, as I will be in Las Vegas, I clearly knew I wouldn't schedule when either family had thought. But two appointments back to back incorrect? Odd. Then again, the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is stressful and strenuous for many.
As I left my visit this morning, I contacted JA and left messages as we had planned to meet up for lunch. I was starving, so I grabbed a banana out of my purse. Seeing that I had gum, I decided to stick the gum on the banana peel as I ate the banana. I laid the banana peel on the passenger seat in the car, with the gum secured on the peel.
To be honest, I have absolutely no recollection of where the banana peel is. NONE. I still don't, hours later.
When I arrived home from work, my son asked what was on my pants. He asked if I had holey pants and if I really wore them to work. When I looked down at my pants, I had FIVE small, gooey, sticky patches of...GUM. The gum must have fallen onto my pants, which then proceeded to stick to a different part of the pant leg, repeatedly as I sat and stood and so on.
Did I mention, I still have absolutely NO idea where the banana peel is. I don't remember if I removed the peel from my work car. I would have to assume that I did, hence how the gum managed to get from inside a banana peel on the passenger seat of the car to my leg. But maybe the gum fell immediately after I consumed the banana. Which would mean that I had gum on my upper thigh throughout lunch and throughout a 2.5 hour home visit with a family and then back to the office where I sat at my desk and then to my car to come home. And...not one person mentioned a thing?
Tomorrow I will manage to back track my steps to find a now over ripe banana peel. On a side note, some ice and scraping removed the sticky gum from my dress pants.
I can only wonder what else I have managed to misplace and miscommunicate. I'm just glad for now, it was a piece of gum and a banana peel.
What types of mishaps have you had while suffering from a lack of sleep?
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Customer Service/Online Ordering
I can readily admit that I pay too much for services. I wish that I was a better advocate for keeping my costs down, but change keeps me stagnant. Weekly I receive advertisements in the mail on how to lower my auto insurance, my cable, my phone service, my credit card interests, you name it, I'm sure you and I both receive them.
Change and choice keeps me content. Or does it? I know that I pay too much in combination of my home phone, internet and television, but I haven't done anything about it. I would love to get more for less. Who wouldn't? I finally decided to take matters into my own hands, well one matter at a time.
We are having issues with our DVR. Two recent shows that we have recorded have had interference, of course during critical times, that have allowed us to miss some of the show. Clearly not life threatening. As we have Dish, the first time I thought it may have been due to weather, but after the second time I'm afraid that isn't the case. So I called Dish to ask for assistance and was advised to unplug the receiver. When I followed up to see if I was under any contractual obligations if I chose to cancel I was told I wasn't. There was no conversation or discussion as to my desire to cancel or if services could be offered to keep me as a customer. Based on that, I decided to look into AT&T U-Verse.
I have been receiving sales advertisements for U-Verse for sometime. The bundle sounds like a good deal, but most deals usually do. I already have AT&T for phone and internet, so the television addition wouldn't be a bad idea. I looked online and ended up ordering it today - thinking I got a good deal - which will be installed at the end of the month with a savings of about $30 per month. Not too bad, right?
Then I started thinking about the deal and what television stations we would be getting, especially since we have been watching many shows on the CW (LOVE, LOVE RINGER). I was beginning to think I would be going on a similar t.v. hiatus with the switch as I did when I lost the WB years prior. Frustrated with the online site (as my computer at work has an outdated web browser) I called customer service. This is where I became...confused.
The woman on the other end of the phone was FABULOUS. She didn't say that she could save me more money but advised that I might like what she had to offer over what I just ordered. I thought I had ordered the U-100 but received the U-Family so 30+ less channels as I ordered the DVR and it isn't available with the 100. So here is what I ordered and what I was offered by calling Customer Service:
Online Offer: 70 channels, Basic Internet & Home Phone; $250 Visa Credits for ordering online; 12 months for $110/month
Customer Service: 200 channels, Pro Internet, Home Phone, Free HBO/Cinemax 3 months, $250 Visa; 6 months for $95/month and 6 months for $105/month
So which is the better deal? I was actually a little confused by how I was being offered a better deal by calling and I wondered if there was a "catch".
Oh and one more thing...She was AMERICAN and spoke ENGLISH. Who says that Customer Service doesn't exist by phone anymore? Did I mention I didn't even yell or call to complain?
Change and choice keeps me content. Or does it? I know that I pay too much in combination of my home phone, internet and television, but I haven't done anything about it. I would love to get more for less. Who wouldn't? I finally decided to take matters into my own hands, well one matter at a time.
We are having issues with our DVR. Two recent shows that we have recorded have had interference, of course during critical times, that have allowed us to miss some of the show. Clearly not life threatening. As we have Dish, the first time I thought it may have been due to weather, but after the second time I'm afraid that isn't the case. So I called Dish to ask for assistance and was advised to unplug the receiver. When I followed up to see if I was under any contractual obligations if I chose to cancel I was told I wasn't. There was no conversation or discussion as to my desire to cancel or if services could be offered to keep me as a customer. Based on that, I decided to look into AT&T U-Verse.
I have been receiving sales advertisements for U-Verse for sometime. The bundle sounds like a good deal, but most deals usually do. I already have AT&T for phone and internet, so the television addition wouldn't be a bad idea. I looked online and ended up ordering it today - thinking I got a good deal - which will be installed at the end of the month with a savings of about $30 per month. Not too bad, right?
Then I started thinking about the deal and what television stations we would be getting, especially since we have been watching many shows on the CW (LOVE, LOVE RINGER). I was beginning to think I would be going on a similar t.v. hiatus with the switch as I did when I lost the WB years prior. Frustrated with the online site (as my computer at work has an outdated web browser) I called customer service. This is where I became...confused.
The woman on the other end of the phone was FABULOUS. She didn't say that she could save me more money but advised that I might like what she had to offer over what I just ordered. I thought I had ordered the U-100 but received the U-Family so 30+ less channels as I ordered the DVR and it isn't available with the 100. So here is what I ordered and what I was offered by calling Customer Service:
Online Offer: 70 channels, Basic Internet & Home Phone; $250 Visa Credits for ordering online; 12 months for $110/month
Customer Service: 200 channels, Pro Internet, Home Phone, Free HBO/Cinemax 3 months, $250 Visa; 6 months for $95/month and 6 months for $105/month
So which is the better deal? I was actually a little confused by how I was being offered a better deal by calling and I wondered if there was a "catch".
Oh and one more thing...She was AMERICAN and spoke ENGLISH. Who says that Customer Service doesn't exist by phone anymore? Did I mention I didn't even yell or call to complain?
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Shallow or Sure?
I have been extremely busy at work as of late. I seem to be accommodating clients and working a lot of late nights. I am always amazed how inflexible clients are, when I am helping them to achieve their goals, dreams and desires.
I have recently met with two married couples that sleep in opposite bedrooms. I understand separate bedrooms becomes more frequent in long-term relationships. Personally, I don't think that I could ever live with someone in a committed relationship if we didn't desire the companionship of each other or had snoring issues that affected our ability to sleep together. Maybe that's why I am still single, although I maintain that the only way my ex-husband and I could have remained married was if we lived in different states! One couple though, of 27 years have only shared a bedroom for six months. SIX. MONTHS. I couldn't imagine. What is even more difficult to comprehend is that for the past 21 years his "bedroom" is in the basement in a room the size of a closet wedged in the unfinished basement area of storage and the utility room. He has no desire to move up to the main sleeping quarters where there were three vacant bedrooms.
I was talking with a man today about his job and he mentioned he makes whitening strips. He asked if I wanted some. It flashed me back to a bad first meet/date I had a couple years ago where the guy offered to bring me whitening strips because it was where he worked too. I mentioned this to the man. He offered a name and I honestly couldn't recall. The first name might have been, but my description was dead on to who he had said. I felt shallow after describing him as short and obese and full of tattoos. But it was the truth.
Another recent experience I met a client's fiance. They met through eHarmony last August. They are getting married this month. Neither have ever been married. He is 40 and she is in her late 30's. As I sat with him interviewing him I couldn't help but feel shallow. He is a very nice man, but definitely not my type. He had bariatric surgery years ago and still has weight to lose (lost 200#'s already) plus as he calls it, the "apron" of excess skin that he believes is 50 pounds. He is also 5'5" tall and worked third shift. Is it shallow that makes us understand what we are attracted to or what we are looking for or is it a sense of being sure?
I have recently met with two married couples that sleep in opposite bedrooms. I understand separate bedrooms becomes more frequent in long-term relationships. Personally, I don't think that I could ever live with someone in a committed relationship if we didn't desire the companionship of each other or had snoring issues that affected our ability to sleep together. Maybe that's why I am still single, although I maintain that the only way my ex-husband and I could have remained married was if we lived in different states! One couple though, of 27 years have only shared a bedroom for six months. SIX. MONTHS. I couldn't imagine. What is even more difficult to comprehend is that for the past 21 years his "bedroom" is in the basement in a room the size of a closet wedged in the unfinished basement area of storage and the utility room. He has no desire to move up to the main sleeping quarters where there were three vacant bedrooms.
I was talking with a man today about his job and he mentioned he makes whitening strips. He asked if I wanted some. It flashed me back to a bad first meet/date I had a couple years ago where the guy offered to bring me whitening strips because it was where he worked too. I mentioned this to the man. He offered a name and I honestly couldn't recall. The first name might have been, but my description was dead on to who he had said. I felt shallow after describing him as short and obese and full of tattoos. But it was the truth.
Another recent experience I met a client's fiance. They met through eHarmony last August. They are getting married this month. Neither have ever been married. He is 40 and she is in her late 30's. As I sat with him interviewing him I couldn't help but feel shallow. He is a very nice man, but definitely not my type. He had bariatric surgery years ago and still has weight to lose (lost 200#'s already) plus as he calls it, the "apron" of excess skin that he believes is 50 pounds. He is also 5'5" tall and worked third shift. Is it shallow that makes us understand what we are attracted to or what we are looking for or is it a sense of being sure?
Shower Curtain Update
NEWS FLASH....NEWS FLASH.....
I have not changed either bathroom shower curtain in almost TWO MONTHS! TWO. MONTHS.
I am considering changing the main bathroom, but I really do like the orange. It just makes me feel calm and at peace. One day though. One day soon, I am sure I will change it out. I am thinking pink for spring. And seeing how much I LOVE pink, I am thinking of no change!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Breakable
Tears well up in my eyes. I fight to keep them from slowly sliding down my cheeks. I try to think of pleasant things. I try to imagine that I am tough, strong and invincible. I am not. I loose the battle. The tear falls quickly. Then one after another in rapid succession. I try to lick them away before they land making a small wet spot soon to become a pool of tears. I wipe my face. I wish I was stronger. I wish I wasn't affected. I wish that words weren't so hurtful. My wishes go unanswered.
I received an email tonight from my father's wife, delivered at 7:13p.m. The subject, "your dad". The content, "Your dad had a stroke. A"
Let me rewind to what has transpired between this last post and the above email. I have attempted to "play nice". I have become the passive listener, no questions, supporter as much as possible in correspondence with his wife. Somehow, I managed to get on her mass phone texting updates as adding me to the email list was too difficult. Clearly, I am not included on much of communication. Blessing in many ways of course but a curse in others. See, not having control or information of a situation is brutal for me. I am left feeling like the abandoned child left cowering in the dark corner waiting for permission to be included. To no longer be shunned. To understand the whys of the punishment and yet thankful for the solace of the lack of torture.
On vacation I happened to receive an "oops" text from A at 4:28a.m. that read, "Oops! Put in wrong area code to X's ph no. Here are phone numbers to contact him to wish him well his rm no. Is good until Thiursday. Please vall him & weish hio. Well. (cell) 1 XXX XXX XXXX (Rm) 1 XXX XXX XXXX. I will be in Fl packing up & he needs all the support he can get now." Her previous text had been sent at 4:40p.m. the afternoon before and had listed the wrong area code for his cell phone he has had for years. As I keep my phone on at night for emergencies, I was not happy to receive the text. I wondered if she had been drinking.
Hours later of no sleep, I texted her the following, "A unless it is mid-day or an emergency, please do not send texts, emails are fine. I do not appreciate general texts at 428a.m. Thank you." Her response, "Did it wake you up? No prob....no more texts to you...." I should have left it at that, but I responded, "Yes it did and I have been up ever since." Which she responded, "Awwwww" That last text was received on April 4, 2011.
I have talked with my father on the phone once since those texts. He told me his LVAD surgery was changed from 4/8 to 4/11. He hoped his wife would be back from Florida by then. His prostate cancer scare was negative.
On 4/11, I called the hospital Social Worker and learned he didn't have surgery. My brother is getting calls and texts from A but I no longer am. I am aware of strained emails between relatives, my brother and A. I am somewhat thankful I am not included in the drama.
On 4/14, A sends out a mass email saying that my father is currently in surgery for a "carotid (sp) artery repaired with a stint". He should be back in his room by 1p.m. with the LVAD to be scheduled in two weeks. I hear nothing until I receive the email:
7:13p.m. Subject "your dad" "Your dad had a stroke. A"
I call my brother and leave a message. I call my aunt and leave a message. I call A and get her voicemail. I call my father's room and a woman answers. I ask for A. The woman says, "This is A." I respond, "Hi A. it is M." She interjects and says, "Your dad is sleeping. I will tell him you called. Good bye." She hangs up the phone.
I cry. I curse. Is this really what it has come to?
I gather myself and with help I find the number for the hospital. I call and am transferred to the Nurse's Station. I ask for information about my father and I am told that he has to give permission for me to speak with a nurse. I am put on hold. I cry more knowing that if SHE has any say, I will learn nothing. I will be told nothing.
To my surprise, the nurse returns quickly and says that he said OK. The nurse tells me that my father's surgery went well. A CAT scan was completed and there was no sign of a stroke; however, his right wrist and hand are showing weakness. The stent is working. His blood sugar is 140. He didn't have 12 biopsies on his prostate that he reported to me on the phone, but the biopsy was negative. The LVAD isn't scheduled yet. There was nothing else to be reported or to inquire. I am given permission to contact the Nurse's station directly with inquires.
My dad is doing better than he was yesterday before the stent, despite some hand weakness. The blood flow is drastically improved.
A managed to text and call my brother. She textedLVAD? Who am I to have these thoughts?
Funerals can be a time to mourn and rejoice the life of a loved one. Funerals are to support and love those left behind. In early November, I said goodbye to my dad. To the shell of the man that still resembles my dad. I see no reason to be at a funeral for HER.
I am breakable. I am weak. I am no longer his little girl. I am a mother. I am a woman. And while I shed tears and struggle with being tough and strong, I am not.
I am tired of shedding tears. I am so very tired...
I received an email tonight from my father's wife, delivered at 7:13p.m. The subject, "your dad". The content, "Your dad had a stroke. A"
Let me rewind to what has transpired between this last post and the above email. I have attempted to "play nice". I have become the passive listener, no questions, supporter as much as possible in correspondence with his wife. Somehow, I managed to get on her mass phone texting updates as adding me to the email list was too difficult. Clearly, I am not included on much of communication. Blessing in many ways of course but a curse in others. See, not having control or information of a situation is brutal for me. I am left feeling like the abandoned child left cowering in the dark corner waiting for permission to be included. To no longer be shunned. To understand the whys of the punishment and yet thankful for the solace of the lack of torture.
On vacation I happened to receive an "oops" text from A at 4:28a.m. that read, "Oops! Put in wrong area code to X's ph no. Here are phone numbers to contact him to wish him well his rm no. Is good until Thiursday. Please vall him & weish hio. Well. (cell) 1 XXX XXX XXXX (Rm) 1 XXX XXX XXXX. I will be in Fl packing up & he needs all the support he can get now." Her previous text had been sent at 4:40p.m. the afternoon before and had listed the wrong area code for his cell phone he has had for years. As I keep my phone on at night for emergencies, I was not happy to receive the text. I wondered if she had been drinking.
Hours later of no sleep, I texted her the following, "A unless it is mid-day or an emergency, please do not send texts, emails are fine. I do not appreciate general texts at 428a.m. Thank you." Her response, "Did it wake you up? No prob....no more texts to you...." I should have left it at that, but I responded, "Yes it did and I have been up ever since." Which she responded, "Awwwww" That last text was received on April 4, 2011.
I have talked with my father on the phone once since those texts. He told me his LVAD surgery was changed from 4/8 to 4/11. He hoped his wife would be back from Florida by then. His prostate cancer scare was negative.
On 4/11, I called the hospital Social Worker and learned he didn't have surgery. My brother is getting calls and texts from A but I no longer am. I am aware of strained emails between relatives, my brother and A. I am somewhat thankful I am not included in the drama.
On 4/14, A sends out a mass email saying that my father is currently in surgery for a "carotid (sp) artery repaired with a stint". He should be back in his room by 1p.m. with the LVAD to be scheduled in two weeks. I hear nothing until I receive the email:
7:13p.m. Subject "your dad" "Your dad had a stroke. A"
I call my brother and leave a message. I call my aunt and leave a message. I call A and get her voicemail. I call my father's room and a woman answers. I ask for A. The woman says, "This is A." I respond, "Hi A. it is M." She interjects and says, "Your dad is sleeping. I will tell him you called. Good bye." She hangs up the phone.
I cry. I curse. Is this really what it has come to?
I gather myself and with help I find the number for the hospital. I call and am transferred to the Nurse's Station. I ask for information about my father and I am told that he has to give permission for me to speak with a nurse. I am put on hold. I cry more knowing that if SHE has any say, I will learn nothing. I will be told nothing.
To my surprise, the nurse returns quickly and says that he said OK. The nurse tells me that my father's surgery went well. A CAT scan was completed and there was no sign of a stroke; however, his right wrist and hand are showing weakness. The stent is working. His blood sugar is 140. He didn't have 12 biopsies on his prostate that he reported to me on the phone, but the biopsy was negative. The LVAD isn't scheduled yet. There was nothing else to be reported or to inquire. I am given permission to contact the Nurse's station directly with inquires.
My dad is doing better than he was yesterday before the stent, despite some hand weakness. The blood flow is drastically improved.
A managed to text and call my brother. She textedLVAD? Who am I to have these thoughts?
Funerals can be a time to mourn and rejoice the life of a loved one. Funerals are to support and love those left behind. In early November, I said goodbye to my dad. To the shell of the man that still resembles my dad. I see no reason to be at a funeral for HER.
I am breakable. I am weak. I am no longer his little girl. I am a mother. I am a woman. And while I shed tears and struggle with being tough and strong, I am not.
I am tired of shedding tears. I am so very tired...
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Bathroom Curtain Changes
I am beginning to realize that I really have an issue with my shower curtain purchasing. I had myself convinced that I was improving and moving beyond changing the curtains after adding the new bathroom, but I was in DENIAL.
Even T said tonight, "Mom, you have a serious problem with shower curtains."
I have purchased four shower curtains since mid-February. In three weeks, I have purchased four. Granted one of them was the clearance Valentine's Day curtain.
Tonight I switched out both bathroom shower curtains. I had initially put the safari curtain in the upstairs bath and realized that it didn't pull out any of the wall color and looked beyond ridiculous. So I moved it immediately into the basement bathroom where it matches much better. Of course it's hard to see the entire curtain in the shower and to maneuver to get a good picture in such a small space!
I moved the orange accents upstairs to go with this new striped shower curtain that will go in both bathrooms. I have to say that the photo doesn't do it justice.
I suppose I could have worse purchasing addictions than reduced shower curtains...right?
Even T said tonight, "Mom, you have a serious problem with shower curtains."
I have purchased four shower curtains since mid-February. In three weeks, I have purchased four. Granted one of them was the clearance Valentine's Day curtain.
Tonight I switched out both bathroom shower curtains. I had initially put the safari curtain in the upstairs bath and realized that it didn't pull out any of the wall color and looked beyond ridiculous. So I moved it immediately into the basement bathroom where it matches much better. Of course it's hard to see the entire curtain in the shower and to maneuver to get a good picture in such a small space!
 |
| Safari Curtain |
 |
| Stripes |
I moved the orange accents upstairs to go with this new striped shower curtain that will go in both bathrooms. I have to say that the photo doesn't do it justice.
I suppose I could have worse purchasing addictions than reduced shower curtains...right?
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Tubal Ligation & Cauterization
I will never have another biological child. Since making my decision and scheduling my appointment for my tubal ligation and cauterization, I had many thoughts of whether or not I was making the right decision.
I met with a family for work that was inquiring about foster parenting due to failed attempts at fertility and the financial costs of international and domestic adoption. I sat in their living room and wondered if I had the right to choose not to bring a life into this world. If I wanted to conceive, since I have never tried, would I be able? I also have a cousin that has fertility issues. Could I be a surrogate?
I suppose all questions that are normal when making the decision to permanently end the chance of my reproduction. Almost fourteen years later, I am completely sure that I want to make that choice. That I don't want to start over and give birth to my child. And with that, yesterday I had a tubal ligation.
D attended the appointment with me. Clearly D is not a fan of the hospital where my procedure was. She had many questions and even offered that we could flee before I went under the knife! I also learned that despite answering four times that I hadn't consumed any food or drink in twelve hours, that making a joke about eating four donuts for breakfast is not funny. The nurse said that I would be immediately discharged if that was the case.
I don't remember much of the procedure. I know that many doctors came to talk to me before I was taken back for surgery. I know that the IV smelled and hurt when it was inserted. I know that the nurse said I had "good blood" as she wiped from my fingertips up to my hand. I know the burning sensation that coursed my vein when the medicine was added to my IV. I recall the trip down to the surgery room. I recall the order to breathe from the oxygen mask. And then I recall being pushed into the recovery room where D sat patiently waiting.
While I have never had the dream to be an exotic dancer, those dreams are crushed if I ever wanted to give a lap dance due to my incision above the pelvic bone. Although I haven't removed the bandaids yet to see how large or small the sutures are. I did have the quick moment of panic in pre-op that I hadn't cleaned my belly button lately and maybe the incision would cause belly button lint to fall into my body thereby giving me an allergic reaction to dust that I could die. SERIOUSLY. I even considered seeing if they had a q-tip available, but I managed to refrain. Good thing, since I am still alive!
The surgery apparently went fine. I was given a prescription for vicodin which I didn't pick up. I considered doing so today but decided why fill another script I have no intention on using? I came home and ate and then laid down. I drifted in and out of sleep for about four hours. Then I was wide awake for the next 7 hours watching movies, television and playing cards before I attempted bed sometime after 2a.m. I laid wide awake for the next four hours. I was up at 7:20a.m., about an hour after sleep. I managed to fall back asleep briefly before getting up for good.
Other than some ibuprofen, I have been fine. The sutures have itched, but everything seems to be going well. I have been on some high of accomplishment today (even questioning if I am manic!) as I went to Kohl's, got the car washed and went grocery shopping before coming home to give T breakfast and take him to school at 11:00a.m. for his late start. Then I was off to swap movies at blockbuster and back home to wash dishes, sweep the kitchen floor, clean T's room and talk to JA. While talking to JA I decided I needed to paint the bedroom and closet door inside that was bothering me and then proceeded to paint the door frame, the window frame in the bathroom and touch up paint in the hallway. I finally put the paint away and washed down the doors and door jams in the hallway. I then put away dishes and vacuumed. I ate lunch and then sat down to watch Due Date. I made it through almost the entire movie (which I so DON'T recommend) before going to pick up T from school and come back to meet with the foster home licensers to renew my provisional license.
After they left, we finished watching Due Date and then watched Life As We Know It. Then it was on to dinner and dishes. Now downtime and American Idol.
Whatever do I have left to do tomorrow while I have the day off to complete my recovery?
I met with a family for work that was inquiring about foster parenting due to failed attempts at fertility and the financial costs of international and domestic adoption. I sat in their living room and wondered if I had the right to choose not to bring a life into this world. If I wanted to conceive, since I have never tried, would I be able? I also have a cousin that has fertility issues. Could I be a surrogate?
I suppose all questions that are normal when making the decision to permanently end the chance of my reproduction. Almost fourteen years later, I am completely sure that I want to make that choice. That I don't want to start over and give birth to my child. And with that, yesterday I had a tubal ligation.
D attended the appointment with me. Clearly D is not a fan of the hospital where my procedure was. She had many questions and even offered that we could flee before I went under the knife! I also learned that despite answering four times that I hadn't consumed any food or drink in twelve hours, that making a joke about eating four donuts for breakfast is not funny. The nurse said that I would be immediately discharged if that was the case.
I don't remember much of the procedure. I know that many doctors came to talk to me before I was taken back for surgery. I know that the IV smelled and hurt when it was inserted. I know that the nurse said I had "good blood" as she wiped from my fingertips up to my hand. I know the burning sensation that coursed my vein when the medicine was added to my IV. I recall the trip down to the surgery room. I recall the order to breathe from the oxygen mask. And then I recall being pushed into the recovery room where D sat patiently waiting.
While I have never had the dream to be an exotic dancer, those dreams are crushed if I ever wanted to give a lap dance due to my incision above the pelvic bone. Although I haven't removed the bandaids yet to see how large or small the sutures are. I did have the quick moment of panic in pre-op that I hadn't cleaned my belly button lately and maybe the incision would cause belly button lint to fall into my body thereby giving me an allergic reaction to dust that I could die. SERIOUSLY. I even considered seeing if they had a q-tip available, but I managed to refrain. Good thing, since I am still alive!
The surgery apparently went fine. I was given a prescription for vicodin which I didn't pick up. I considered doing so today but decided why fill another script I have no intention on using? I came home and ate and then laid down. I drifted in and out of sleep for about four hours. Then I was wide awake for the next 7 hours watching movies, television and playing cards before I attempted bed sometime after 2a.m. I laid wide awake for the next four hours. I was up at 7:20a.m., about an hour after sleep. I managed to fall back asleep briefly before getting up for good.
Other than some ibuprofen, I have been fine. The sutures have itched, but everything seems to be going well. I have been on some high of accomplishment today (even questioning if I am manic!) as I went to Kohl's, got the car washed and went grocery shopping before coming home to give T breakfast and take him to school at 11:00a.m. for his late start. Then I was off to swap movies at blockbuster and back home to wash dishes, sweep the kitchen floor, clean T's room and talk to JA. While talking to JA I decided I needed to paint the bedroom and closet door inside that was bothering me and then proceeded to paint the door frame, the window frame in the bathroom and touch up paint in the hallway. I finally put the paint away and washed down the doors and door jams in the hallway. I then put away dishes and vacuumed. I ate lunch and then sat down to watch Due Date. I made it through almost the entire movie (which I so DON'T recommend) before going to pick up T from school and come back to meet with the foster home licensers to renew my provisional license.
After they left, we finished watching Due Date and then watched Life As We Know It. Then it was on to dinner and dishes. Now downtime and American Idol.
Whatever do I have left to do tomorrow while I have the day off to complete my recovery?
Shower Curtain Comfort
I had blogged about purchasing orange towels and a toilet lid cover and rug around the toilet. I purchased a floor rug as well. Despite the small size of the downstairs bathroom, I managed to fit the large floor rug in and adorn the bath with orange. I put back up the orange and olive circular shower curtain. I have to say that I love, love, love the color orange and how it looks!
Now if only I can find my Shower Curtain Anonymous class, I think things are getting out of hand! I am running out of room on my shelf for all of my curtains and rug ensembles. Or maybe I should embrace it and start a meetup group for other shower curtain hoarders!
Yesterday while I waited in pre-op at the hospital I received a text from one of my girlfriends. She told me not to get too excited but Kohl's had Valentine's shower curtains on clearance for $7. Of course I couldn't head there at the moment, but I did make time first thing this morning to get to Kohl's.
As I needed to spend my Kohl's cash, what better than on another shower curtain? At first I didn't find it, but I soon did. I managed to get two red hand towels with hearts, a heart rug and the shower curtain. I also picked up another shower curtain on clearance that is striped that will match both bathrooms. Of course I spent more than my $20 Kohl's cash, but so well worth it.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Customer Service FAIL
I spent some time on their website and immediately noticed that the strawberries I received didn't look like the pictures. They weren't "dipped" they were dunked! I read a page of reviews - many of similar complaints of appearance and freshness. Instead of posting a comment on the wall of the website, I emailed customer service the following (I am omitting the name of the company):
Sent: Feb 15, 2011 7:09:43 AM
Subject: Dozen Chocolate Covered Strawberries
To Whom It May Concern:
I received a dozen chocolate covered strawberries yesterday as a surprise from my boyfriend! I was so impressed with his ability to keep a secret and a wonderful surprise!
The packaging and strawberries looked very good and tasty - however after looking at your website, I was surprised that they were not as the pictures and being "dipped". Regardless, the presentation was pretty - almost too good to eat.
Having said that, the presentation was MUCH better than the taste. The strawberries were over ripe and tasted fermented. I ate three, hoping that I just had a bad first strawberry. Unfortunately, two of the three were over ripe that I have no desire to eat or share the remaining.
I won't tell my boyfriend about the quality of the berries because I truly love that he surprised me with a great gift. I just wish that the taste was better.
Very disappointed,
XXX
Ref: XXX100-A8F-1
Gift order#: XXX588
_________________________________________________________________________
>>> "XXX Berries Customer Care" wecare@customercare.berries.com> 02/15/11 5:49 PM >>
Best Regards,
CS William B.
Customer Care
XXXX's Berries
_________________________________________________________________________
At 8:07p.m. I emailed CS William the following:
Clearly CS William B., you need to change your email address from "wecare" to we could care less.
Karma my friend. Karma...Way to treat your customers with respect.
Best Regards to you...
________________________________________________________________________
What happened to Customer Service? I didn't even ask for anything. I simply went out of my way to email a personal letter rather than post on a company website my disappointment.
Trust me, I want to disclose the name of the company as I wouldn't summarize that all companies selling chocolate covered strawberries should be used with caution, but I will refrain. But be sure on this, I WILL NEVER, EVER purchase dipped strawberries and definitely never order anything from this California based company.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Educational Music
Over the years, I have always been impressed with educational songs that teach. My son and I have an ongoing joke about such songs and I feel blessed for the artists that can influence the young.
Here are some examples:
Here are some examples:
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
B-A-N-A-N-A-S
G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S
Pretty impressive don't you think? My son was actually quite young when he first heard these songs. And honestly - as I typed them out, I was singing the spelling in my mind. Catchy aren't they?
But today, I was MOST impressed with the latest new listen of an educational song by none other than Lady Gaga:
H-I-M
I'm almost rendered speechless! Almost...What educational songs and lessons have been impressionable to you?
Valentine Goodie Part III
Last night I posted about my brownie debacle here. After cutting out the two hearts, I called it a night and went to bed.
I do have to admit, I am a pretty tough critic, especially on myself. This morning while my son was making his lunch for school I asked him if he tried the brownies.
He said, "Why didn't you use the peanut butter chips? It doesn't taste peanut buttery."
Well that's because I had to default and make the brownies as I was missing the heavy cream for the fudge. So I inquired as to what he thought. He said, "I didn't really get a good piece and using the cookie cutter was hard as it was so thick! It tasted like a brownie. It's pretty good."
So I sampled them again. And true to fact, they were actually pretty good. The brownie is still a little soft but definitely not as easy to cut into heart shapes with the cutter! Fortunately I was able to mold them into the cutters and push them out.
Needless to say, after getting on the scale, I ate quite a few of the brownies that couldn't mold into the cutters! I even brought one in for my co-worker and gave it to her with a note.
But don't think that I won't be getting a box of Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines to add to the box of sweets. Afterall, foolproof and 1/10th the cost! Speaking of foolproof, did I mention that's what the fudge is called? Can't wait for the story on that baking adventure, Can You?
I do have to admit, I am a pretty tough critic, especially on myself. This morning while my son was making his lunch for school I asked him if he tried the brownies.
He said, "Why didn't you use the peanut butter chips? It doesn't taste peanut buttery."
Well that's because I had to default and make the brownies as I was missing the heavy cream for the fudge. So I inquired as to what he thought. He said, "I didn't really get a good piece and using the cookie cutter was hard as it was so thick! It tasted like a brownie. It's pretty good."
So I sampled them again. And true to fact, they were actually pretty good. The brownie is still a little soft but definitely not as easy to cut into heart shapes with the cutter! Fortunately I was able to mold them into the cutters and push them out.
Needless to say, after getting on the scale, I ate quite a few of the brownies that couldn't mold into the cutters! I even brought one in for my co-worker and gave it to her with a note.
But don't think that I won't be getting a box of Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines to add to the box of sweets. Afterall, foolproof and 1/10th the cost! Speaking of foolproof, did I mention that's what the fudge is called? Can't wait for the story on that baking adventure, Can You?
Brother's 40th Birthday Boxes
Last week I posted about what I wanted to do for my brother's Big 40th Birthday gift here. I finished the gift and unlike my baking adventures of tonight, it turned out the way I had anticipated. ALMOST.
So here in order of all of the sugary goodness, are 40 boxes of cereal with an example of the $1 taped.
And on the other side of the money is the birthday wish for my Brother.
So here in order of all of the sugary goodness, are 40 boxes of cereal with an example of the $1 taped.
 |
| 40 Boxes of SUGAR Cereal |
 |
| Saying on one side, folded dollars on other side |
I was a little concerned about what type of box to package the gift in. I used an empty copy paper box from work, which had ample room left over! I filled the extra space with lots of tissue paper so that the boxes would stay in order of the greeting. Then, I sealed up the box with packaging tape. I covered the box writing with paper bag and packaging tape. I addressed the box.
And just to be sure that this adventure was so true to form of me, I realized after sealing everything, I didn't actually purchase a birthday card. Or leave a personal note and sign love and from his sister and nephew. Oops. Not that he can't figure it out from the greeting on the boxes, but still. I wasn't about to reopen the package. Oh well, as is.
I did look for a good 40th card today that I could just mail since I paid the $10 shipping fee for the box and sent it on the way. I didn't find anything and decided he is capable of reading the greeting and understanding the meaning and money, right?
Oh shit...I think I will be getting a card this weekend and dropping it in the mail!
Valentine Goodie Part II: EPIC FAIL
So before the final baking debacle was complete, I posted this. Of course part of the reason for wanting to get the Valentine baking out of the way tonight was I wanted to bring in a small goodie bag for a co-worker that had a rough day. I figured she would enjoy something sweet. My honest intention wasn't to kill her!
So as you can see, my brownies don't look like the picture on the recipe card. Not even remotely. As I mentioned, the filling was swimming! Then with the difference of the baking pan, I added five minutes more bake time, but as you can see the sides were beginning to brown. While the toothpick wasn't completely clean, I was afraid I would end up with burnt brownies if I baked much longer. I attempted to be patient to let them cool.
Then I used my new cookie cutter for the large heart and a small one I already had. The brownie was still very warm and didn't come out of the "prepared pan" as well as I hoped as it was pretty soft. The smaller heart almost looks like the recipe picture, but the larger one, not so much.
 |
| Brownies right from the oven |
So as you can see, my brownies don't look like the picture on the recipe card. Not even remotely. As I mentioned, the filling was swimming! Then with the difference of the baking pan, I added five minutes more bake time, but as you can see the sides were beginning to brown. While the toothpick wasn't completely clean, I was afraid I would end up with burnt brownies if I baked much longer. I attempted to be patient to let them cool.
Then I used my new cookie cutter for the large heart and a small one I already had. The brownie was still very warm and didn't come out of the "prepared pan" as well as I hoped as it was pretty soft. The smaller heart almost looks like the recipe picture, but the larger one, not so much.
 |
| Heart Shaped Surprise Brownies (Just like the picture - NOT) |
While they look good enough to eat, the taste? Ummm...yeah, I think I'll buy the boxed stuff afterall. I broke my vow to not eat anything after 9p.m. because I can't give out brownies that taste terrible, Can I?
Sometimes it's the thought that counts right? Yeah I'm sure my co-worker will totally get that I attempted to make her fudge but couldn't without the heavy cream so I wanted to make her a brownie. And yeah, I f'd that up too. But here's pictures to prove I attempted? Yeah, that will go over like a ton of flying bricks.
Or better yet...A ton of flying brownies!
(On a completely random side note - I'm still LOVING my dishes that MS gave me for Christmas!)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)