A Writer's Journey

More new beginnings

2011-11-02T07:42:00.000-07:00

In my absence from this blog, I've started a new photo-a-day blog. Join me at www.cameracuriosity.blogspot.com if you want to take a peek at my attempt to post a photo every day while learning more about my new passion for photography.

I'm also participating in NaNoWriMo again this year!

Happy (Day after) 4th of July!

2011-07-05T19:10:00.000-07:00

Just a few shots from the fireworks at the lake.

And the red, white and blue cake I made from one of my old favorite Pampered Chef cookbooks.

Oldest son and his girlfriend arrived Saturday. We've been enjoying the time together.

Mia

2011-06-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

It was two years ago today that Mia came to us in a backpack, and immediately made herself at home. Youngest son had picked her out of a litter that a friend's cat had. She was barely a couple months old. Cute and curious and just as sweet as she could be. Still is. She's a lot of fun. Loves to play, and curl up on you instead of beside you.

Here she is, that first day two years ago, checking out the goods.

And a more recent picture. Asleep in the study, close to the two things she seems to love most - a window where she can look out, and me, who she follows everywhere.

Wings

2011-06-13T13:55:00.000-07:00

This was my morning...
Arriving at D/FW airport to take my baby to his flight to Pennsylvania to see his girlfriend.

My all grown up son checking in at security. *sniff* He hates having his picture taken, so this was the best I could do at the time.

Spreading his wings.

On the Other Hand

2011-05-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, there was a poetry prompt from Poetic Asides to write an "on the other hand" poem. I had an idea, but didn't get it down on paper until this past week.

Other Handedness

She holds his
heart in her bitter
hands, clutching,
clawing, until
she squeezes the life out of
him, for one last time.

Or maybe
it'll be like all
the other
times when she
deftly avoids any real
connection to him.

Saturday

2011-05-14T17:40:00.000-07:00

I finally finished Nikki Sixx's book this morning. A friend asked the other day how the book was. I could've gushed forever, but I think sad, honest, haunting and inspiring sums it up.

And I have a couple poems that I've been sitting on because I've been too busy, too tired, or both, to get to the blog and post them.

Tried to do a fibonacci with this one. Not the best attempt I'm sure, but the moment stirred emotions and inspired words. The picture is from two winters ago, same church, different time.

Small
church
on the
hill, nestled
away from the road,
surrounded by old trees that stand
just as proud as they are crooked, how often have I

silently admired your simple beauty without
even stepping foot inside. I
welcome the peace as
a black charred
top bares
its
soul

to the sky. Unfaltering faith pours through a fine mist
of rain. Blue and red lights cut the
morning around the
tiny church
across
the
road

Frazzled

2011-05-10T21:07:00.000-07:00

I found this picture and thought it looked about how I feel - just a little bit frazzled. Except instead of 'one of those days', it's one of those weeks; Tuesday when it felt like it should've been Thursday or Friday.

I've finished one poem recently, and started two others that sit in my notebook, barely an idea forming. I wonder how I did it every day for 30 days in April because I can't seem to focus right now. With all of the end of the year activities for school and my calendar looking like a small explosion, I'm just spinning.

Hopefully, I can come back up for some air soon.

No More Rain

2011-05-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

It's been raining for the past two days and barely reaching the 60s. Friday, I took a picture of the bird feeder that the husband and Youngest had bought. This picture just makes me feel good. I can still have sunshine and bird song even when it rains.

Poetic Bloomings

2011-05-01T21:46:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd take a break from writing today since the Poetic Asides Poem-A-Day Challenge ended, but a new venture between two awe-inspiring poets from the same challenge sprouted, and I couldn't resist participating. I'll be adding my meager attempts, and hopefully learn more about poetry along the way.

I had a headache most of the day. Managed two very small poems (only posted one) at Poetic Bloomings. The first prompt was to write a "seed" poem.

*Forget-Me-Not

Soil under fingernails
disrupts the earthworm.
Seeds scattered and buried.
Sunshine and water brings to
life the bright blue petals
with a butter yellow center.

*This poem was a pretty simple idea because I just couldn't dig up much more, but it does hold a lot of meaning, for me anyway, because the packet of forget-me-not seeds I'd planted was a sympathy gift from our vet after our cat, Storm, died a couple years ago.

Brown Thumb

I try to coax life
from the tiny seeds,
but my fumbling brown thumb
could wilt a silk plant.

PAD Challenge Day 30

2011-04-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

Last day of the Poem-A-Day Challenge! Today's prompt: Write an "after leaving here" poem. A few lines of this poem came to me as I was doing other things this morning, and I had to hurry and write them down before they disappeared into thin air as they so often do. It took me the longest to figure out a decent title.

It's Not Goodbye

After leaving here,
I'll pack my bags and take a
road trip to uncertainty, sail on
waters of self doubt, watch the
sun rise and set over a crumpled
map with crisscrossing lines,
and fall asleep on an endless
moving dream, only to come
right back home again.

PAD Challenge Day 29

2011-04-29T20:28:00.000-07:00

One more day to go! I'm glad I've stuck with this challenge, but have to admit today was tough. Not sure what it was about this prompt (write an ode) that seemed to throw me off.

I wrote 5 odes, but only really "felt" two of them. Here's the two that I posted at Poetic Asides:

Ode to Priorities

Dirty dishes in the sink,
and my comfy bare feet.
Laundry piled high,
reaching for the sky.
The bill that's past due,
and most of all - you.
I'm too busy writing to care
and staying in this chair.

Ode to My Muse

Muse, you are a fickle character
a fair weather friend
showing up unexpectedly
but never unwelcome.

PAD Challenge Day 28

2011-04-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

Prompt: Write a "the world without something" poem. Early in the challenge, there was a prompt to write a poem that "imagines the world without me". This one imagines the world without someone or something else.

Colorful World

My two sons paint a picture of quick wit
with vibrant splashes of contagious laughter.
I can't imagine a world without them.

They might be as different as night and
day, these budding artists primed for success,
my two sons paint a picture of quick wit.

I admire our bold gallery, set
carefully with blended brush strokes and mixed
with vibrant splashes of contagious laughter.

This heart of mine would be abstract, no frame
to hold a canvas void of life.
I can't imagine a world without them.

PAD Challenge Day 27

2011-04-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

Prompt: Take the phrase "In the (blank) of (blank)," replace the blanks with a word or phrase, make the new phrase the title of your poem, and then, write your poem.

My first attempt - a Lune:

In the Blink of an Eye

You might miss this time
if you blink
and you don't want that.

Second attempt - playing with the alphabet form:

In the Back of Ally's House

Ally's bedroom can detect every
footprint ghost hallway. Inside,
jingling keys land mindlessly near
opaque pitchers, quietly reaching,
softly touching under various windows,
xylophones, yarn, zippers.

PAD Challenge Day 26

2011-04-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

Two for Tuesday prompt: (1) Write a leader poem, or (2) Write a follower poem.

Follow the Leader

Line up and follow the leader
was the playground rules of the game
but I wasn't much of either.
Line up and follow the leader.
I always stopped for a breather.
Can we play something that's not lame?
Line up and follow the leader
Was the playground rules of the game.

PAD Challenge Day 25

2011-04-27T16:06:00.000-07:00

Prompt: Write a falling poem. This could be about the physical act of falling (like someone tying your shoelaces together), or it could be symbolic falling (such as falling in love).

Falling for Words

I open my notebook.
The crisp pages snap
between my fingers
and then I see it -
the funny blue pen mark
on my hand that looks like
a smile with no nose or eyes,
and I smile, reminded of
why I love to write - because
I fall for words every time.

PAD Challenge Day 24

2011-04-26T21:10:00.000-07:00

Prompt: Write a prayer poem. Your prayer poem could be religious, but it doesn't have to be. People can pray to make it to work on time. Or to be rich. Or even for the rain. It's completely up to you what your poem is about.

My Prayer (for my youngest son)

I pray that your blue eyes
always have that sparkle
and shine.
That you never give up
and your dreams align.
I pray you know how special
you are, no matter where
life takes you, no matter
how far.

PAD Challenge Day 23

2011-04-26T21:07:00.000-07:00

Prompt: Write a quit doing what you're doing poem. This could be about something you need to quit doing or that someone or something else should quit doing.

"Get Out of My Head"

I left the door wide open without much
thought as to what I was getting into.
You blew in and knocked the hinges right off
my heart. A whirlwind of emotion stirred,
drenching me in an unconscious pool of
mindless games, and wounds that flow deep within.

I wish you'd get out of my head.

Clouds formed, and there was never a reason
for us to continue on this damned path
of hopeless wonder and abandonment.
It's hard to fathom what we were thinking.
Shadows crawl out of hearts filled with deceit
and leave an ominous black mark that winds
itself around your soul. Seek shelter from
the storm brewing. The storm in me and you.

I wish you'd get out of my head.

Alone, a quiet stillness claims the dark,
shatters the fog that once surrounded me
and the tight grip that held my heart captive.
I open my eyes to the light and see
a new day, a new tomorrow, a breath
away from you. I shut the door and say...

I wish you'd get out of my head.

PAD Challenge Day 22

2011-04-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

Prompt: Write an "only one in the world" poem. This only one in the world might be a person, an animal, a place, or an object. Think of someone or something unique and write.

Catching up with getting my poems onto the blog.

Singular

Girl snags ring,
runs grinning

in grass

as sun snarls
raining glass

Gulls sail,
sing in air

Sling sugar

PAD Challenge Day 21

2011-04-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's prompt: Write a second thoughts poem. You could have second thoughts about something you've done or thought in the past. You could write about someone (or something) else having second thoughts. Or you could even take a poem you wrote earlier in the month and flip it in a new direction.

I've had tons of second thoughts (more like regrets), so this could be wide open. I went with another villanelle, and not a real serious idea. Still no mastery with this form, but I keep trying.

On Second Thought

I planned to pen a villanelle today.
Of all the forms, I had a second thought
about what I would write, what I would say.

My initial idea had gone astray
now missing from its' original spot,
I planned to pen a villanelle today.

Wouldn't it be nice if my brain obeyed?
Wouldn't it be nice if it did what sought?
About what I would write, what I would say.

However I can get the words to stay
will be the challenging part and hard fought.
I planned to pen a villanelle today.

They swirl and then blur, the images frayed.
I reach out, but they don't want to be caught
about what I would write, what I would say.

Hopefully, they will soon come out to play.
These priceless flickers of hope can't be bought.
I planned to pen a villanelle today
about what I would write, what I would say.

PAD Challenge Day 20

2011-04-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt: Write a message in a bottle poem. Imagine that your poem is being rolled up and put in a bottle for someone to read. Or if you want to come at it in a different way, think of it as a poem left in a time capsule or hidden away in your sock drawer.

After I wrote my first acrostic poem about spring a while back, I'd tried to do a double acrostic but it was a mess. I think I found just the right words for this one today. I also like the idea of this prompt; the whole message in a bottle thing.

ALL BOTTLED UP

AbouT
Living WelL
Lost in paradisE
Bouncing arounD
Over at the luaU
Thanks for the tiP

Mia and PAD Challenge Day 18 & 19

2011-04-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

Getting my Mia on Monday picture up a little late.

But all caught up with my days now.

I just finished Day 18 and 19. The prompt for Day 18 was: Take the phrase "Like (blank)," replace the blank with a word or phrase, make the new phrase the title to your poem, and write your poem. My first attempt was titled Like a Bat out of Hell. I liked the idea of it (crazy drivers), but it's one of those 'notebook' poems. Ya know, the ones that stay in a notebook.

I liked my second attempt better. Here it is:

Like Cobwebs

It's dark and dusty, holding old forgotten memories
fragmented by time. Tucked away neatly at first
for easier retrieval, and then haphazardly as if
they're somehow less important. And you go back
sometimes, stepping lightly so as not to stir any
pain that's clung to the deepest parts of you. Even
as you tiptoe around all the pieces, things crumble
and fall into place. A torn up dream, a water-stained
wish, a broken image...of you. As you sift through the
remains, you might find something salvageable amongst
all the cobwebs your mind has weaved.

Day 19 prompt - Write a love poem, or an anti-love poem.

"Lovestruck"

I'm
not
anti-
love at all
I'm a lovestruck fool
head over heels in love with you
topsy turvy, toes curling, butterflies in stomach.

PAD Challenge Day 16 and 17

2011-04-18T20:16:00.000-07:00

I've been fighting with the "snapshot" prompt for a couple days, trying to catch up now. The forms are fun and challenging so I've been attempting different ones.

On Saturday (Day 16 of the PAD challenge), I was gone most of the day. Nikki Sixx (bassist for Motley Crue and Sixx:A.M.) was doing a book signing at Barnes and Noble in Dallas. Event started at 3:00P.M. I got there at 2:00, bought the book, was given a lettered wristband and then informed that they'd be calling "K" around 6:30. I finally got to meet Nikki around 9:30 that night. He signed my copy of his latest book This is Gonna Hurt: Music, Photography, and Life Through the Distorted Lens of Nikki Sixx, and I got a hug!

I'd be finished reading the book if I didn't have 50 other things going on, including this poetry challenge, but one word: awesome! I'll get back into it as soon as I catch up on my poeming.

So, Saturday was a big day for me. And while I was sitting outside B&N waiting...and waiting...and waiting, I knew I wanted to write my snapshot poem about Nikki. Well, as with most of my writing, it didn't quite go as originally planned. I did tons of people watching that day, and this one girl was captured as my "snapshot." I was going to write a simple poem, describing what she looked like and what she wore, but as I mentioned, I'm addicted to studying different poetic forms, and I tried a paradelle. I think I might've butchered the form. Still learning.

"Snapshot"

She was a tall drink of water.
She was a tall drink of water.
Oozing coolness in the liquid heat.
Oozing coolness in the liquid heat.
Drink a tall water in the liquid heat.
She was oozing of coolness.

My mouth was dry. She quenched the thirst.
My mouth was dry. She quenched the thirst.
Crisp refreshment on a sultry day.
Crisp refreshment on a sultry day.
On a sultry day, she was the crisp refreshment.
My dry mouth thirst quenched.

Like something out of a dream.
Like something out of a dream.
A gentle breeze lifted her soft hair.
A gentle breeze lifted her soft hair.
Dream something gentle like her soft hair
lifted out of a breeze.

My crisp refreshment was like a tall drink
of water on a sultry day. Something in the
liquid heat quenched dry mouth thirst.
She was oozing coolness. The gentle breeze
lifted her soft hair out
of a dream.

Day 17: Write a big picture poem.

Here's mine:

"Big Picture"

The fighting
over petty stuff
doesn't get
to the root
of the problem, but if we
try, we can find peace.

Let no harsh
words or thoughts be brought
to your lips,
for venom
ignites hatred and don't we
have enough of that?

PAD Challenge Day 14 & 15

2011-04-15T11:22:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt: write a profile poem. Lots of possibilities. I'll be back later with my attempt. I'm posting this a little late, but I tried the Fibonacci form:

Just Me
Mom
Wife
Reader
Lover of
Photography and
Music that moves and stirs the soul.

Yesterday's prompt (Day 14) was to write an "ain't none of my business" poem. I wrote a cinquain:

You
Nosy gossip
Stretching, twisting, distorting
Mind your own business
Toxic

Eh, not the best but at least I'm writing. I had another idea that didn't make it to the blog. Still working that one out.

PAD Challenge Day 11, 12 (& 13 added)

2011-04-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's prompt was to take the phrase "Maybe (blank);" replace the blank with a word or phrase, make the new phrase the title of your poem, and then write the poem. It was a crazy busy day (Mondays seems to be that way) and was late when I got about half of my idea written and then gave up submitting at poetic asides.

Here was the start of that idea for Day 11:

Maybe, Just Maybe

If I didn't spend so much time
waiting 'til the last minute
the last minute wouldn't
wrap its hands around my
neck and squeeze the

And that's it for yesterday. A fine example of my procrastinating and half-finished pieces.

Today, Day 12, is the second "Two for Tuesday". The choices were to write a form poem, or write an anti-form poem.

I went with a form poem, studying all the different ones. So many I'd never even heard of, but it's fun and challenging. My first ever attempt at an acrostic poem:

SPRING

String bikinis at
Poolside
Retire
Immodestly
Naked on the
Grass

Day 13 added. I had ideas that didn't pan out, but I think I finally managed to convey an idea that was stirring (using the Blitz poem), so here's Day 13 which was to write a poem that remembers an old relationship.

Dreams Are Wishes

Dreams come true
Dreams fall short
Short life to live
Short time awake
Awake with want
Awake to plan
Plan for the future
Plan a business
Business stays afloat
Business venture ends
Ends a dream
Ends a season
Season of life
Season of drifting
Drifting into despair
Drifting into darkness
Darkness envelopes
Darkness traps
Traps you alone
Traps your soul
Soul torn apart
Soul seeking
Seeking companionship
Seeking a will
Will to you
Will to survive
Survive these times
Survive above water
Water runs through
Water covers your head
Head is confused
Head in too many places
Places of question
Places far away
Away from friends
Away from family
Family becomes distant
Family doesn't understand
Understand the ghosts
Understand the spinning
Spinning words
Spinning thoughts
Thoughts tumble
Thoughts out of control
Control is lost
Control only you
You can beat this
You can dream
Dream...
This...

Mia On Monday

2011-04-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

Back later with my attempt at today's poetry prompt.

PAD Challenge Day 10

2011-04-10T20:49:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt: Write a never again poem. Maybe you'll never again fall in love or never again tell a lie...

I didn't have a lot of time today, so this is a rough haiku that I attempted:

Never

I will never lose
the love that flows from me to
you; never again

I like this prompt, and may go back and expand on it some more.

PAD Challenge Day 9

2011-04-09T22:41:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt: Write a time of day poem. In fact, make the title of your poem the time of day. For instance, "5:54a.m.," "2:23p.m.," "Midnight," etc. Then, write your poem...

I was gone most of the day - we went to the Dallas Car Show - and then I was exhausted afterward. I wondered how in the world I was going to make today's prompt in time, but managed to sneak one in before midnight (my time). When I sat down to write, the words came easily (thank goodness) and I was pretty happy with this attempt.

11:30

A hush so quiet
the night places a finger
over the black velvet sky
sprinkled with tiny diamonds and
the yellow-white glow
of a street lamp
plays peek-a-boo
behind a front yard tree
while crickets chirp
and fingers tap keys

PAD Challenge Day 8

2011-04-08T21:51:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt was to write a 'ready to celebrate' poem. The first thing I thought of was my oldest son's upcoming graduation from high school. He can't wait, I can't wait. We're all excited.

Here was my effort:

Graduation

From a backpack on your shoulders
to the weight of the world,
we walked hand in hand.
From a waxy, rainbow-filled box
to a cap and gown,
your first drawing still held with a magnet.
From the first grade spelling bee winner
to National Honor Society nominee,
my heart burst with pride.
From lopsided grins in wooden frames
to a handsome young man,
nothing could be more beautiful.
From tackling playground monkey bars
to designing your own video games,
a bright future emerges.
From your first day of school
to your soon-to-be last,
I've cherished every moment.

PAD Challenge Day 7

2011-04-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt was to write a "what if" poem.

And my two attempts (a haiku and a cinquain):

What If?...

What if your blue eyes
had never gazed into mine?
We wouldn't have met

Tick Tock

Time
Strange mystery
Drifting, flying, spinning
If it would just stand still
Now

PAD Challenge Day 6

2011-04-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

I didn't submit a poem to the challenge yesterday. Not because I didn't write, because I did. I just didn't like what I'd written. The prompt was: take the phrase "Don't (blank), (blank);" replace the blanks with a word or phrase as the title of your poem, and then write your poem...

I had three different ideas for titles for most of the morning, none of which I was crazy about until I came up with one I liked, and when I finally started writing, the poem took on a life of its own.

I finished the poem late in the evening, and just wasn't sure it didn't completely blow. It was a villanelle which I've written before with varying degrees of success, if success means they didn't make me want to bang my head on the desk.

The title that didn't get ditched was Don't Look Down, Look Up. I might see if I can rework it somehow.

By the way, 9 times out of 10, I first type poem like this - peom - and have to retype it. What's with that word?

PAD Challenge Day 5

2011-04-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

Today's prompt was to write a goofy poem or a serious poem (or both). I went with goofy, and fretted over it all day long - cutting, adding, cutting again - until I finally submitted it. I don't think I have another one in me today, not after such spectacular dreck. There's some really great poets over there. I just don't think I'm one of them.

Back Home Again

My new kite got stuck in a tree
While I tried to get it down
Ouch, I was stung by a bee

When I ran for the ice cream truck
My big feet tripped
Man, I have the worst luck

The bite of a dog did make me fuss
Kicking up rocks
Mad, I might've cussed

Back at home, I picked up my cat
She yawned and, without warning,
Gross, she yakked

I think I'll just turn in to bed
All kinds of things hurt
Sigh, including my head

PAD Challenge Day 4

2011-04-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

The prompt was to write about a type of person. I knew I wanted to write about a musician when I saw it, but not sure I liked how this turned out. Blah!

The Musician
(haiku)

A soulful voice spills
rhyme, rhythm and harmony
from the radio

PAD Challenge Day 3

2011-04-04T18:09:00.000-07:00

I love how these prompts spark a general idea, but then I can go in a completely unexpected direction. Fun stuff! This one, "a poem in which you imagine the world without you" was tough because given my recent health issues, I've been in this place enough.

Here was my attempt:

Alive

I'm there in the gentle breeze
that caresses your skin.
I'm there in the sunshine
that warms your heart.
I'm there in the birds
that sing words of praise.
I'm there in the rainbow
that colors your world.
All you have to do is look
and you'll see.
I'm there,
In a world without me.

PAD Challenge Day 2

2011-04-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

I had several ideas for the 'postcard poem' and couldn't decide which one I liked best, so I submitted all three. Here they are:

Spring In Texas

We've traveled rough terrain
to get where we are now.
Time slips through our fingertips.
We hold on
for another breath,
another moment,
riding out the storms.
Leaving clear, blue skies
and whispering winds
as a reminder.

The Storm

Woke up to a nasty rainstorm early this morning.
As if it were only a dream,
the skies are blue, but
the wind draws its long branches
around my quiet comfort
making the house
creak and pop

What Not To Wear

If you wear a skirt today,
hold onto it because
the wind is waiting
to whistle and howl
and send leaves clapping
against each other
in applause of the show.

2011 April PAD Challenge

2011-04-04T10:55:00.000-07:00

I got an email the other day about the 2011 April Poem-a-Day Challenge and decided to participate. This is great for the poetry bug that's hit again recently. I'm already late to the party and will be catching up with several posts today. Here's my poem for Day 1 and the 'what got you here' prompt:

Lost and Found

I didn't like what I saw
beneath the quiet
whispering conscience
silenced by boredom
and reckless searching

Until I found my place
right here where I belong
and my heart
opened up
giving way to a richer
fuller
content
life

Mia on Monday

2011-04-04T09:42:00.000-07:00

Older picture of Mia, doing what she does best - taking a cat nap.

Paws for Reading

2011-03-31T10:02:00.000-07:00

I didn't do a post for Mia on Monday, so here she is, or part of her anyway, sleeping under a blanket. She loves to wiggle her way under a fuzzy blanket. I'm with her on that one and plan to do just that in support of National Sit Your Ass On Your Couch Day. I have three new books, one of them being The Sweetest Thing by Jill Shalvis, and can't wait to dig into them.

It's nice to feel well enough to want to read again.

The past several days have been cold and gloomy. Mother Nature seemed to be teasing us with the sunshine and 80 degree temperatures before that. Today it's back to sunny, blue skies and a warmth that makes you want to lift your face to the sky, close your eyes and sigh contentedly.

Before I knew we were going to be hit with a cold front, I'd bought some forget-me-not seeds and put them in a planter on the front porch, only to have to bring them back in again until today. I just hope they grow this time. I tried the pack our vet sent us a couple of years ago, but they didn't do much other than sprout a tiny, leafy little bit and then nothing else.

I love all things green and flowery, but don't have much of a green thumb. More like a brown thumb. I can - and have - killed a cactus before. Yeah. I don't even know how that happens.

The youngest currently has two plants in the window over the back door. One is a mint plant, and I'm not sure what the other one is. He likes me to water them because I have "the magic touch." Oh, dear. Was he not paying attention when I unintentionally killed the cactus?

Anyway, now that I've spent more time on here than I meant to, I'm off to enjoy some good reading!

Mia on Monday

2011-03-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

Spring Has Sprung

2011-03-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

I haven't been feeling 100% lately. Not enough energy to even get online much less commit to keeping up the blog. I'm slowly gaining my strength and energy back which is much needed to maintain things around here. As for the writing, I've done more in the past few weeks than I have all year. There's an urgency with the desire. Something I don't always feel when it seems all is well. But let me worry about my health, and my muse kicks into high gear. Everyday things turn into poems (I've been writing some haiku and cinquain - two of my favorite forms of poetry), people turn into characters. Life is just richer.

My reading has been minimal, especially when all I felt like doing was lying on the couch and watching TV just because the sound of the characters' voices kept me company. Speaking of television, House is my latest favorite show. I didn't watch it when it first came out years ago, but caught a marathon one afternoon and fell in love with all of the characters.

But about my reading...if I'm keeping up with my reading challenge, I'm still on a book from February. The book itself is slow at times, but I'm giving it a chance.

Hopefully, I'll be back again soon.

Thawing Out

2011-02-07T20:01:00.000-08:00

Saturday was the first time in days that I even left the house. Sure, I got out and played in the snow with the youngest but that was about it since the roads were too bad to drive on. So, Saturday night we went out to eat at our favorite cajun restaurant, Razzoo's. I've always loved the atmosphere and good food.

Fried pickles as an appetizer. I've had other fried pickles and these are the best. (horrible cell phone camera pic)

Fried gator tail. Yum!

Snowblind

2011-02-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

It's snowed another 4-6 inches since last night. Here's the youngest playing in the snow today. We tried to build a snowman but the snow was too dry and wouldn't stay together well enough. We did manage a snowball fight. Had to really pack the snow to get it to form into balls. Fun stuff.

Snow Man's Land

2011-02-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

Ice on the front porch yesterday.

Looked out the window at 1:30 this morning and there was more snow falling. If it wasn't so damn cold, I could stand there and watch it all night. The quiet, the peacefulness, the way it sparkles like tiny diamonds.

Winter Wonderland

2011-02-03T23:12:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow will be the fourth day in a row that the schools have been closed due to ice/snow. We're supposed to get more snow tomorrow and Sunday. It's been nice having the kids home with me all day. Youngest and I have slipped around on the ice, watched TV together while sitting by a warm fire, drank hot cocoa with marshmallows, and even cleaned out old junk from closets. Oldest has had some friends over, brave souls who ventured out on foot in the freezing temperatures.

I also managed to finish my first book of the year yesterday. It was The Burying Place by Brian Freeman. Took me longer to read than usual. Not because it wasn't good - his books are always good! - but just because finding enough quiet moments to get any real reading in is difficult at times. Loved the book! There were so many twists and turns that left me guessing right up until the very end.

For the reading challenge, the February book I chose to start with is The Trouble with Valentine's Day by Rachel Gibson. My BFF read this one and another of Gibson's books, and after all the gushing she did, I had to check out the author myself. Of course, I've had the book in my TBR pile for a while now, so it's about time I read it.

Stuff

2011-01-19T11:51:00.000-08:00

My new find!

Those who know me know that I love mint chocolate chip ice cream. Ah, the cool, crisp mintiness combined with the chocolate chips. Heaven. When I saw a commercial for mint chocolate chip gum the other day, my first thought was, 'Hmmm, I wonder what that's like.' And then, 'How soon can I find some?'

I went to 7-Eleven for a bag of ice on Monday and remembered to look for the gum while I was at it. I have to say the gum is good, no funny aftertaste like I thought there might be. Not sure the flavor lasts all that long, but it's still yummy. Simple pleasures...

Here's Mia watching the snowfall in the backyard last weekend. It's no surprise just how psycho cats are, but this morning I watched her eat from her bowl, casually walk just a few steps away, lie down as if exhausted, and then take off at full speed into my bedroom, across the bed and up onto the window sill. She's clearly nuts, but very lovable.

As for the snow, it's all gone, but the cold temperatures are sticking around. I'm so ready for spring!

More new beginnings

2011-01-18T18:42:00.000-08:00

I wanted a new look for the blog and found this cute argyle template. Something fun with what I still consider a dark edge. Most of the templates I came across were nice, but too girly for my tastes.

Last night was the husband's birthday. He wanted to eat at Chili's because they have the best chicken fried steak (his words), so that's where we went. There's only one thing I eat at Chili's and that's the quesadilla. We don't go there often, and they've changed the menu since the last time. The quesadilla I always got before was just chicken and cheese I think. Now it's bacon ranch chicken. Guacamole on the side. Love the guacamole!

My quesadilla.

Skillet queso & chips and salsa for an appetizer.

Molten Chocolate Cake for dessert.

Reading Challenge

2011-01-17T16:06:00.000-08:00

As usual, I'm late to my own party.

In years past, I’ve participated in the e-harlequin 100 book reading challenge where the goal is to read 100 books in a year. I lost focus halfway through one of those challenges, and decided to do my own personal reading challenge for 2011.

I wanted to read 100 books, but also wanted themes for each month. I was a little overly enthusiastic as I went about creating my list, ending up with 5 books a month. When I was reading my theme ideas to my oldest son, he said, “You’re going to read five books a month?” I stopped and thought. My reading bubble had been burst. I decided to narrow it down to 4 books since that’s a book a week and I can manage that. At least that's the plan.

Some of the months have the same authors in them, but most of those books are ones that my mom gave me and they've been sitting around here for years, so it's about time to read them and move them out to make more room.

As for the themes and the books I’ll be reading:

January – A place in the title
The Burying Place by Brian Freeman
50 Harbor Street by Debbie Macomber
The Shop on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber
Texas! Lucky by Sandra Brown

February – Books with ‘love’ or ‘Valentine’s’ in the title
I Love You to Death by Amy Garvey
Ready for Love by Debbie Macomber
Be My Valentine by Debbie Macomber
The Trouble with Valentine’s Day by Rachel Gibson

March – Young Adult titles
Night Star by Alyson Noel
Fallen by Lauren Kate
Fat Vampire by Adam Rex
Need by Carrie Jones

April – Spring
Rainwater by Sandra Brown
Stormwatch by Jill Shalvis
Texas Rain by Jodi Thomas
Mum’s the Word by Kate Collins

May – The Elements
Dead Air by Mary Kennedy
Oceans of Fire by Christine Feehan
Dark Water by Sharon Sala
Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

June – Summer in the title
The Forever Summer by Suzanne Macpherson
The Summerhouse by Jude Deveraux
Summer Pleasures by Nora Roberts
One Reckless Summer by Toni Blake

July – Things you see in the summer time
Sail – James Patterson
Lifeguard – James Patterson
Code Name: Bikini – Christina Skye
Swimsuit – James Patterson

August – Titles with numbers in them
One For the Money by Janet Evanovich
Knit One, Kill Two by Maggie Sefton
Nine Lives by Sharon Sala
Just One Look by Harlan Coben

September – Titles with male character names
Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz
Martin Misunderstood by Karin Slaughter
Say No To Joe? by Lori Foster
Simon Says by Lori Foster

October – Vampires
Over My Dead Body by Michele Bardsley
Undead and Unworthy by Mary Janice Davidson
The Ultimate Bite by Crystal Green
Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

November – Food
Cherry Bomb by J.A. Konrath
Delicious and Suspicious by Riley Adams
Delicious by Susan Mallery
Sprinkle with Murder by Jenn McKinlay

December – Christmas titles
The Twilight Before Christmas by Christine Feehan
A Very Merry Christmas by Lori Foster
Better Naughty Than Nice by Jill Shalvis (anthology)
Christmas Getaway by Anne Stuart (anthology)

The Best of 2010

2011-01-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

1. Seeing KISS live in concert for the first time!
2. Discovering new-to-me authors (Wendy Lyn Watson, Sheila Lowe).
3. Taking my first college course (General Psychology)
4. Discovering Adventure Bookshop.
5. Meeting Sandra Brown for the second time.
6. Going to my first and second Farmer's Market.
7. Discovering Painting with a Twist, and a new passion for painting.
8. Teaching myself to crochet.
9. Reading more from my TBR pile.
10. The Good Guys.

What were your favorite things of 2010?

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T20:58:00.000-08:00

So, here we are, a new year. I've yet to make any resolutions, and not sure I will other than to maybe write more. I was already looking at a literary fiction mag as a place to submit some work this morning. I've considered the mag for a while now, but always put it off. I think I'll stop procrastinating.

Yesterday for dinner we ate at this new sushi restaurant called Big Tree Sushi and Grill. As an appetizer, we had edamame (soybeans in a pod). We also ordered sushi and california rolls. I only like the california rolls. The husband and Youngest fussed at me for taking out the middle part of the roll, but I say that's where the good stuff is. The avocado, crab meat, cucumber. I don't much care for the sticky rice and seaweed it's wrapped in. Okay, so I eat like a child taking out my favorite part and leaving the rest. So what?

Sushi and california rolls.

My dinner. Shrimp fried rice.

The complimentary, and very yummy dessert our waitress brought us. Youngest had already claimed one for himself before I could get a picture of all three pieces. I'm not even sure what it was, some kind of flaky pastry type thing with a whipped topping and chocolate sauce. It had a slight banana taste.

Almost a New Year

2010-12-30T20:11:00.000-08:00

As usual, I've been an absentee blogger. I finished my General Psychology class earlier this month (ended up with a B!). Studying and turning the assignments in on time took up a lot of my time and focus. Most writers have full-time jobs outside of writing, families, and other obligations. Me, trying to juggle more than one thing at a time makes my brain numb. I did want to sign up for another class for the spring semester, but couldn't find another web-based course that wasn't already filled up. I told myself to stop being chicken and just put myself out there and sign up for a class that I'd actually have to show up for. The mere thought makes me nauseous, but if getting that degree is really what I want (and it is), then that's what I'll have to do. Eventually. Family obligations is another factor in how long this is going to take.

As for writing, I'm getting back to it (slowly).

This is a picture I took from our driveway as we were piling luggage and kids into the car to make the 3 1/2 hour trip to my parents' house for Thanksgiving. I'm just glad the holidays are almost behind us.

NaNoWriMo '10

2010-11-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

I started a new blog recently - http://www.kitchendork.blogspot.com/ and have been blogging over there. Initially, the idea of a food blog started because of a conversation I had with a friend about a rather non-flattering picture of myself with one of my favorite authors. It was supposed to be an incentive to eat healhier and get more exercise. I can do both, but since the direction of the blog turned more toward food (my love of eating) and cooking (my lack of skill), it wasn't really about trying to lose weight anymore, although there still is that goal.

Then there's the other goal. The month-long writing challenge that is National Novel Writing Month. I'm way behind on word count, but hope to get caught up this weekend. Funny how my Psychology textbook has become much more interesting than writing this novel. Can you say avoidant? Heck, cleaning the bathrooms seems more interesting right about now.

However, I do have a picture that I'd like to use as my book cover. I took this from my backyard last week, before I even had any idea what I was going to write this year for Nano. The working title is Board Stiff. It's a mystery. The hero has a construction company, and so far that's about all I know for sure. We shall see how it all comes together.

Eventful

2010-10-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

Just now getting around to posting this, but last Saturday, I met Ian Somerhalder ("Damon Salvatore") and Candice Accola ("Caroline Forbes") of The Vampire Diaries at Hot Topic in Frisco. There was probably over 500 people there and I was within the first 250. Waited in line about an hour and a half.

Ian and Candice signed posters and then did a Q&A downstairs. When Ian signed my poster, he said, "Look at that, she's holding his hand. Damon just can't get any love." He was referring to Elena and Stefan holding hands in the poster. I just laughed because I didn't know what to say! His eyes are even prettier in person. Candice just said, "Hi" and "How are you?" They both seemed like really nice people.

Before the Q&A, Sounds Under Radio, as heard on The Vampire Diaries soundtrack (released yesterday!), played a few of their songs. Got to meet them and have my picture taken with them afterward, which was cool.

Mia on Monday - Helping with the Laundry

2010-10-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

I had some wash cloths folded on the couch Friday morning and was about to do the towels when Mia jumped up there, knocked the wash cloths over and weasled her way under the blue towel. Couldn't resist a picture of my little helper.

Fun with Food

2010-10-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

My lunch from yesterday afternoon. A good friend recommended Five Guys to me, and I finally took the opportunity to stop in there and try it out. One word, yum! Undoubtedly the best burger (and fries) I've had; all of their toppings fresh and delicious. I got mine with mustard, pickles, tomatoes and grilled mushrooms. My mouth is watering again just thinking about it! Their menu also offers hot dogs and sandwiches.

You can scoop some peanuts (in the shell) when you walk in and have them as an appetizer.

Love the classic rock that was playing, too. Fun atmosphere.
A return visit is in my near future.

Mia on Monday - Fall

2010-09-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

The above pic is from last Fall (Mia's first Halloween), but wanted to use it today since it is that time of year again. I got out all my Halloween decorations yesterday. Mia loves to try to bite the straw hair on the decorative pumpkins.

And she stared out the front window for a long time trying to figure out what the big thing near the door was - our blow up grim reaper.

Pic from Halloween '08

Kiss Me

2010-09-19T15:57:00.000-07:00

Some pics from the Rockin' the Park concert I went to at Pizza Hut Park yesterday. The event included Kiss, Daughtry, Pat Green, Drowning Pool, The Envy and The Academy Is. By the time I got there, I caught Pat Green, Daughtry and Kiss. Which was just as well. It was so freaking hot until the sun went down a little bit later. My feet were killing me when I got home, too. I don't know how Kiss does it night after night; have continued to do it all these years. I felt like I needed a foot soak and massage.

One of their trailers as I was walking toward the park.

Field area, which is where my ticket was for but it was too hot down there (did I already mention it was hot?!), so I went back upstairs where I stayed the rest of the time.

Pat Green.

Daughtry - they sounded really good. His drummer was awesome!

Kiss! This was my first time seeing them. So cool! I got hundreds of pics, but will try to narrow it to just a few of my favorites.

Gene

Eric Singer on drums (from the jumbotron, since it was hard to see him where I was)

Eric Singer sings Beth.

Tommy Thayer's guitar solo.

Paul flying out over crowd to smaller stage to sing I Was Made For Loving You.

See if you can find Gene in all that confetti.

Fireworks after the show!

Rat Race

2010-09-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

The oldest's rat trap car for his physics class. Fun stuff! It's supposed to go at least 5 meters, and it went about 15 when we tried it out.

Materials used:

4 CDs
1 rat trap
4 eye hooks
Part of 1 coat hanger
6 balloons (1 for each wheel, 2 for wheel grips)
Wooden dowel cut to make 2 axles
String (we used kite string) - String is tied around rear axle, so when you release the trap, it pulls the string off of rear axle like a top and makes the car go.

Mia on Monday - Sunbathing on Garden Tub Ledge

2010-09-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

Satuday Sightings - Blue Skies

2010-09-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

Part of Patriot's Day celebration at the football stadium this morning - vintage military planes, piloted by former military pilots.

Photo courtesy of SB

Mia on Monday - Sunbathing in Window

2010-09-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

She's a Rainbow

2010-09-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

The pretty double rainbow after this past week's storm.

Mia on Monday - Cat Nap

2010-08-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot my saturday sightings post over the weekend, and am late getting Mia on Monday up. School started for my boys last Monday, and my own class (General Psychology, which I'm enjoying) started the same day, so I've been consumed by it all, and just remembered last night 'oh yeah, I do have a blog that I like to keep up'.

I have a ton of reading to do, and an assignment to submit today (it's a web-based course if I didn't already mention that and I may have but can't remember because my brain is fried). So, there's the reading and there's the nap I'd like to take right about now. I wonder which one will win out.

This older pic of Mia is exactly how I feel. Completely exhausted.

Mia on Monday - A Cat After My Own Heart

2010-08-23T06:30:00.000-07:00

Mia checking out one set of bookshelves I got a while back. I've since filled up both sets.

Sunset Skies

2010-08-21T07:00:00.001-07:00

Mia on Monday - Guest: Dee

2010-08-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

Mia said Dee could be a guest in her spot today, so here she is posing in front of some pretty pink flowers.

More Saturday Sightings

2010-08-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

The Write Words

2010-08-10T22:51:00.000-07:00

I found out recently that one of my favorite indie bookstores will be closing its doors after two years on Saturday, August 14. As much of a bummer as the news was, I took the opportunity to attend one last book signing tonight. And, of course, will drag my mom there on Saturday when she and my dad come to visit for the weekend.

Sheila Lowe was at Legacy Books to discuss and sign copies of her latest forensic handwriting mystery, Last Writes. Sheila is a 'real-life court-qualified handwriting expert' with more than thirty years experience in handwriting analysis. It was interesting to learn a few things about how certain styles of handwriting can be interpreted. Check out her site for more info. Awesome stuff!

The stuffed bunny has something to do with the latest book. Sheila held a raffle and I won 'Tickles Vanilla.'

Here he is at home on my bookshelves with signed copies of Sheila's books. Isn't he the cutest thing?

Mia on Monday - Just Hanging Around

2010-08-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday Sightings

2010-08-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Shades of Gray

2010-08-07T00:08:00.000-07:00

I went to my first painting class last night at Painting with a Twist. Actually, not sure 'class' is the right word. More like a fun, creative experience. The place has only been open for 6 or 7 months and I found out about them in the latest Frisco Style magazine. Having wanted to take painting classes at some point, I knew this was my chance to try it out. And I'm glad I did.

The owner and art instructors were all very nice and welcoming. Everyone's name was written on a specific spot, you find your spot, and everything is already set up - the canvas, paint, brushes, cups of water for cleaning brushes. The instructor gave step by step directions, sometimes followed by a funny comment. Like, "Watch the hair or she'll end up looking like Princess Leia." He, as well as other artists that work there, came around to check and see if anyone needed any help, new brushes, clean water. Was a good time.

Some of their display paintings.

And my painting that I did tonight called Tiffany's. I should've thought to take a pic of it before I left the place. Oh well, there's always next time. Definitely next time.

Mia on Monday - Mia's Story

2010-08-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

An even older picture of Mia from her first day with us (6/22/09). A little background on Miss Mia: One of my youngest son's friends had a litter of kittens and he wanted to bring one home. I told him I didn't think it was a good idea because Dee (our older cat) wouldn't like it. Well, Youngest brought the kitten home in a backpack anyway. Dee took one look at her and growled. Poor baby just wanted to play with the big grouchy cat. I brought New Kitten into the study with me and she immediately fell asleep on my shoulder. The little thing had already wiggled her way into my heart.

Next came the naming of the kitten. Youngest said we could call her "Maybe. As in maybe we can keep her." I told him I didn't want to call her Maybe, so I thought of other names, asked him what he thought of Mia, and it stuck. I told him that was spelled M-I-A. Oldest said, "That also stands for missing in action." Which totally suits her.

It took Dee a couple of weeks to get used to her, and she mostly tolerates her now.

Here's a pic of them together.

You Gotta Kiss A Lot of Frogs...

2010-07-31T09:58:00.000-07:00

Books...They Are An Addiction

2010-07-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

I got to cross off another thing from my list of things to do and places to visit today. Back in May, before Adventure Bookshop, an independent bookstore in downtown Frisco, even opened their doors, I saw their sign when I was just driving through and got all excited about the idea of a bookstore nearby.

The old-house-turned-bookstore has floor to ceiling books in every room (I was in heaven), hard wood floors, and a quiet warmth that only a small, independent can offer.

Besides my things-to-do list, I also have an ever growing book wish list and was able to find four books from my list on the shelves, including one that wasn't and I've been curious about the particular series. They carry a good selection of used mysteries, romance, thriller, western, sci-fi, christian and children's books. I ended up with four cozies and a paranormal.

I spent a little bit of time chatting about books and authors with the bookseller. A friendly man, generous with his time and love of the written word. He and his wife owned another bookstore in Arkansas before they moved here and opened this one. Glad to have them and the books.

One of the coolest signs I've ever seen!

I'll be back!

A List of Things

2010-07-26T20:17:00.000-07:00

I've gotten on a kick about wanting to try new things, new places to visit, but it's always those little things called timing and money that seem to get in the way. I've barely made a dent in the life list I created a few years ago, but more recently I made a smaller list - just 4 things for now - of things I want to do. And one of those I took the time to do tonight. It was a small, simple pleasure but sometimes I think those are the best kind.

This is Dimples Cupcakes in Frisco Square. I saw an ad for them a while back and have wanted to take a trip there ever since. I love the pink framed doors and windows. The decor - with its pink, green and black color scheme is totally cool. Simple yet bubbling with fun personality.

Their display case featuring the cupcakes of the day. Banana milk chocolate, chocolate cream cheese and red velvet. They'd had a busy day, and these were all that was left to choose from. We got two red velvet, two chocolate, and one freebie - the banana milk chocolate. And always made fresh while you wait.

My chocolate cupcake.

At home with my chocolate cupcake and my diabetic coma to follow. Those things are huge. But...yum! So good.

Here's a list of some of their other flavors and the days they serve them. (Click on the picture for a better view)

Mia on Monday - Sleepy Kitten

2010-07-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

A little bit older picture of Mia. Being a kitten is hard work.

Saturday Sightings

2010-07-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Friday Funny

2010-07-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

Simon's Cat 'Fly Guy'

Mia on Monday - Birds As Entertainment

2010-07-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Is she laughing at those birds or thinking about how much fun it would be to play with one? Maybe a little of both.

Test

2010-07-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

So, I took the big test today. Went to bed early last night so I'd be well rested, and woke up three times. I think I do better staying up late and sleeping 'til almost noon. That's been the summer routine so far. Mostly, the waking up was nerves I think. I don't do well with change, but knowing that about myself, and knowing that in order to grow even more, this is what it's going to take and this is the change I'm applying to my life.

I passed the reading and writing, didn't do so hot on the math. Not a surprise. Made a 93 on reading, 82 on writing (was a little disappointed with that being so low), and um...well, like I said, not so hot on the math. I can at least start with the class I want, and when I get ready to take math, I'll be in a basic math class.

I've found that most of the classes within my plan can be taken as web-based courses so that's cool. I'd prefer as many of that type as possible.

I'll go back Monday for advising and then register. Such a process, but I guess that's what happens when you come at it a little backwards and a lot of years later.

Saturday Sightings

2010-07-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'll be on my way to take the TSI at the community college in a while. I'm confident about the reading and writing portion of the test, but the math? Not so much. It's never been my strong suit.

Last week, I took a practice test that's available online and bombed the math part, so I can only imagine how I'll do on the actual test.

Fingers crossed and all that.

Friday Funny

2010-07-16T07:05:00.001-07:00

Mia on Monday - Bird Watching

2010-07-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Watching those birds intently.

Saturday Sightings

2010-07-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

This little cutie is one of the many ducks I saw at a nearby duck pond this past week. I could've sat there for hours just watching them. If it wasn't for the pesky gnats and the fact that it was getting dark.

Oh, and next time I'll take bread. I was all about taking pictures and didn't even think about bread for them.

P.S. My parents are visiting this weekend. As usual, I'll drag my mother out shopping. Fun!

Friday Funny

2010-07-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

I love Simon's Cat.

Work in Progress Wednesday

2010-07-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

I haven't written as much as I'd like, but it's coming together. And because I apparently thrive on chaos, or think I do, I'm attempting to go back to school.

The one who couldn't wait to graduate from high school - we won't even talk about how long that's been. The one who had no desire to go to college, here I am feeling like somehow a degree will validate me. To who, or what, and why? I don't know. I guess sometimes we just need more for ourselves.

Actually, I've been considering it for a while, but it just never seemed to be the right time. Not entirely sure it is now either. I can't explain it, other than to say I feel a shift and am going with it.

Tuesday Tidbit

2010-07-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

The headline for an article featuring pictures of clothing made of food caught my eye. Most of them were odd if not disturbing. My favorite was this cupcake gown. Brings a whole new meaning to 'don't play with your food', doesn't it?

Mia on Monday

2010-07-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

My baby sitting on her new favorite spot to watch birds in the back yard.

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T21:57:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a safe & happy 4th!

Some favorite pics I took while at the lake to watch fireworks. I do love that camera.

Saturday Sightings

2010-07-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Friday Funny

2010-07-02T08:00:00.001-07:00

A good friend shared this with me and I thought it was too cute not to use for my Friday Funny. The bride's laugh is so contagious, I actually snorted when I laughed.

Enjoy!

Work In Progress Wednesday

2010-06-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a whole lot more reading than writing lately. Actually, I've been doing a whole lot of everything else instead of writing, but today I was looking back through old story ideas and decided to start with the cowboy I've ~~put off writing~~ let settle in and whisper in my ear long enough.

Looking forward to his story.

On a different note - my BFF called last night while standing in line waiting for the midnight showing of Eclipse. She said there was a lot of teenage girls there. I told her that's exactly why I was not going to see it right now. Sure, I'll see it, but preferably when the crowds of squealing, giggling girls have died down. I've always believed there's a reason I had two boys.

Today, BFF called to tell me about the movie. Luckily, I've read the books so I didn't think she was really going to spoil anything for me. From what I gathered, the whole cast looks better than they did in New Moon, Jacob is "hot" and it has some pretty funny parts.

Soon to be eclipsed!

Off to get some work done.

New Look

2010-06-30T00:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, no more blog neglect. At least I hope there won't be. I also changed the look, which I'm really digging right now. What do you think? As if I had many readers before.

I started messing with the new template designs earlier trying to find just the right look to fit me, my writing, my personality. This one felt the best with it's soft artistic design. It was also the best choice as far as color scheme and placement.

So, for now, I'm happy with a new look and will blog more tomorrow.

Out with the old, in with the new

2010-04-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

Ah, memories! I was cleaning out the closet Saturday and found my old Paul Stanley doll. My fascination with Kiss goes way back. I threw out 5 bags of trash, but kept the good stuff like this that I rediscovered.

Along with Paul, there were some old cassette tapes. Wow, does that seem weird!

And this ring! I found it and about $15 in change in two different purses. Not the best picture, but I liked the ring and wore it the rest of the evening. It's one I got on vacation in Galveston.

I found so much old school stuff that I think it took up much of the 5 bags of trash. It's amazing what I've kept over the years, even stuff from when the oldest, who is now 16, was in elementary school. I won't be parting with the cool art work though. I showed this to the oldest and he said, "What's with the cat's tail? It looks like it has a flashlight on the end." I cracked up. Other than the funny looking tail, I thought this was a really neat drawing.

Another one of his drawings. I've always liked the scarecrow and the snowman below.

I don't have the picture of it here, but I also found the certificate he received for winning 2nd place in the K-2 grade Old Fashioned Fourth of July Art Contest "What Independence Day means to me and my family" sponsored by the Dallas Library back in 2000.

This is one of my favorites that the youngest did.

Youngest used to draw these cool cars all the time. This is just one of the many I found when cleaning.

This seahorse was a drawing that the youngest did when he took an elementary cartooning class one summer. Too cute.

Another drawing from the same art class. I love the little dog singing in the shower.

So, anyway, the closet looks much better and it was a good experience to get rid of useless clutter. I don't think I've seen that much of the floor since we moved in almost 8 years ago.

"The trouble with the world is that the stupid are cocksure and the intelligent are full of doubt." -B. Russell

2010-04-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

Love this warmer weather. Good day to write or read outside, go for a walk, or...take pictures of clouds.

And bees on the bushes.

You Know You Have Kids When...

2010-04-01T19:20:00.001-07:00

So, the oldest was going to bed last night and I mentioned sitting outside during the day to get some sun since it was so nice out, and that something had bitten my neck.

Him: Was it Edward?

Me: The platypus?

Him: (puzzled expression) What?

Me: Edward, the platypus.

Him: (puzzled expression turns to one of mom-is-a-retard) I meant the Twilight Edward.

Me: Oh. Wow! You know you have kids when the first Edward you think of when you hear the name is a cartoon character.

Spring Break

2010-03-15T15:09:00.001-07:00

...has sprung. Not much planned other than hopefully getting some writing done and other projects around here. The crochet bug has bitten and refuses to let go. Not a bad thing, but I really do need to write, and I'd like to decorate the game room. Finding a balance is always the hard part for me. I get involved in one thing and that's all I want to do.

Here's what I've been working on.

I found this pattern for a cell phone holder in the crochet book I bought, and used one of my favorite colors again (cherry chip). I have a different pattern, more girly and the closure is a flower button instead of a chain, so I want to try that one, too.

The baby hat I finished today. I added the heart-shaped button with sparkly butterfly from a bag of buttons that I got at the craft store.

Black Velvet

2010-02-14T18:38:00.000-08:00

...or rather, red velvet. As in the red velvet cupcakes that I made today. Happy Valentine's Day!

I'd never had red velvet anything before, and these turned out really yummy.

Cupid

2010-02-14T17:03:00.000-08:00

Lollipop
Sweet, delicious
Twirling in colors
I want to taste
Lick

As Long As You Follow

2010-02-14T16:01:00.000-08:00

My first finished piece - a ruffled skinny scarf! The color is cherry chip. One of my favorites.

I'm pretty proud of it, and glad to be finished so I can make something else. I still have that blue purse to finish, but am finding so many other cool things to try. I also now know why one gal in a video tutorial for making hearts or flowers (can't remember which one) was using one of those comfort grips on her hook. There was so much repetition in this scarf, basically one long chain and over 400 double crochets (super easy to do, btw), my thumb actually had an indention where I was holding the hook too hard.

Fun stuff!

Cats & Crochet

2010-02-10T20:36:00.000-08:00

Some new pics of Mia and Dee.

Yeah. Um, I don't know. This was supposed to be a heart but didn't turn out that way. I tried the picot edging, wasn't sure where to stop so I ended up doing it all over. Sort of reminds me of a butterfly.

My current work in progress.

And some favorite yarn colors - cherry chip and earth & sky

Wild World

2010-02-10T19:35:00.000-08:00

I was saddened to learn of Capt. Phil Harris' passing this morning. I love The Deadliest Catch and he was always my favorite.

RIP