I hate it when my internal time clock is off. This week, since I came to Des Moines on Sunday so I'm one day ahead. It should be Wednesday! Guess I'll have to suck it up and survive 2 more days until I get to go home.
One a happier note, I did get wireless Internet set up at Joan's house. Yay! Sitting in the recliner, bloggin' What a life!
I love those cheetos commercials with the cool cheeta. In one, the lady wipes her cheeto hands on the obnoxious lady's sweater, and one the other one she tosses cheetos under an annoying chick talking on her cell phone. The pigeons attack.
Which reminds me of a funny Jud story. He's blocked out his childhood so I've dedicated my life to remembering all those embarrassing things for him. He's always had a hair-trigger gag reflex. One time he was eating cheetos when he made a mad dash to our sink. Then he puked and rinsed it down with the garbage disposal, gasping "Icky Cheeto"! It seems just the thought of eating something icky makes him frup.
Which reminds me of another thing - nothing to do with vomit or cheetos. Amy (waitress to the stars) served Kenny Loggins at Beanos Cabin in Beaver Creek today. She said it was weird running his credit card through the machine. I asked her if she mentioned that her mommy has him in her CD player right now.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Monday, March 9, 2009
Larping through life
Have you heard of LARPers? It stands for Live Action Role Playing people. From Wikipedia:
A live action role-playing game (LARP) is a form of role-playing game where the participants physically act out their characters' actions. The players pursue their characters' goals within a fictional setting represented by the real world, while interacting with one another in character. The outcome of player actions may be mediated by game rules, or determined by consensus between players.
I may be (am) lacking in imagination - but what are these people? A bunch of mime wannabes?
When we were visiting our friends in Northfield, MN my little buddy Lauren, college frosh at St. Olaf told about LARPers at her school. It seems they have a secret lair near her dorm and have sword fights in her dorm hallway. Her first roommate also played a ukulele, keyboard and harmonica. She practiced all hours.
Guess I'm fortunate I went to an Ag school like ISU, not a liberal arts music school. I'm sure ISU had it's own LARP types, just not in such a concentrated formula.
Prayers: Our nephew Joe (late 20's, engaged to Heather) from Port Washington, WI was in a bad car accident yesterday and is sedated with brainswelling. Prayers needed!
A live action role-playing game (LARP) is a form of role-playing game where the participants physically act out their characters' actions. The players pursue their characters' goals within a fictional setting represented by the real world, while interacting with one another in character. The outcome of player actions may be mediated by game rules, or determined by consensus between players.
I may be (am) lacking in imagination - but what are these people? A bunch of mime wannabes?
When we were visiting our friends in Northfield, MN my little buddy Lauren, college frosh at St. Olaf told about LARPers at her school. It seems they have a secret lair near her dorm and have sword fights in her dorm hallway. Her first roommate also played a ukulele, keyboard and harmonica. She practiced all hours.
Guess I'm fortunate I went to an Ag school like ISU, not a liberal arts music school. I'm sure ISU had it's own LARP types, just not in such a concentrated formula.
Prayers: Our nephew Joe (late 20's, engaged to Heather) from Port Washington, WI was in a bad car accident yesterday and is sedated with brainswelling. Prayers needed!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Frozen Tundra
Just back from visiting some of our college friends in Northfield, MN. That's where it snows 9 months out of the year. Not really, but they do seem to be about a month behind us when it comes to weather. At least in the spring. In the fall they're a month ahead!
See, here in balmy Southern Iowa it's already been 70 degrees. All the snow has melted - more than once. I was chilly the whole time I was up there. But those Minnesodans are a hearty lot! They just bundle up.
Anyway - we got to see 3 couples we have known for 30 years or so. Moose and Kay, Vic and Fred and Hauser (Steve) and Ann. Jeez - 30 years. That sounds like it should come from someone who IS old, and I don't feel that way. As I've said before in this blog - there is nothing like an old friend. They know all your stories, but laugh anyway (or perhaps because they thought it was funny 30 years ago and they still do).
I like that we can pick up where we left of with old friends - no need to wonder if they are some psycho-flake, who might seem like a cool person we'd like to know better, but turns out to be nothing like we thought. We know our friends' families, siblings, parents and pets.
Our friends' kids seem like nieces and nephews. We've celebrated each of their births and milestones like graduations. While our own chillins couldn't attend this trip, we did get to see some of the kids.
Kelli is the eldest - belonging to Vic and Fred. She was the "trial child" who all our children looked up to. She's now 24 and was kind enough to buzz down from the Twin Cities to see us. V&F's 2nd child Lauren is now a college frosh, and while usually quiet, she regaled us with stories of campus life at St. Olaf - a liberal arts college in Northfield.
M&K's Jaime was pretty much the reason for this wintry trip north. She is a high school senior and was visiting the U of M as a potential for her undergrad years. (I hope she is as lucky as I was in finding friends!). Jaime is a bit of a genius - scoring a perfect 36 on her ACT. We always knew she was intelligent, but WOW! Alyssa is her lil sis, and they seem to pretty close for sistas. Alyssa is outgoing and has always been quite a character. She's now a high school frosh.
We didn't get to see Steve and Ann's fam, as it was adults only at Buca de Bepo - a family style Italian joint in the Cities. It was a lot of fun and much like a family meal, we sat at our table long after the main course was devoured. The Hauser kids sound like they're doing fine - all growing up quickly as kids tend to do. Rachel, Ethan and Gracie keep their parents busy.
After we got home, we played Wii - my first time. Yep I was a Wii virgin. (don't worry I used protection - Vicki made sure we sealed the safety cord around our wrists so we didn't throw the controller thru their new flat screen). I sucked at cow races, and Paul was the worst archer ever.
I hope to post photos of our night as soon as someone emails me the evidence. Our drive home thru - gasp - snow, sleet, rain was not fun. We stopped in Ames to take our #1 son to lunch. He's turning out pretty good if I do say so myself. Then I talked to #1 daughter after I got back to my home away from home in Waukee. Sounds like all is well in Vail Valley.
Can't wait to go home Thursday - until then, there be garbage dragons to slay...
See, here in balmy Southern Iowa it's already been 70 degrees. All the snow has melted - more than once. I was chilly the whole time I was up there. But those Minnesodans are a hearty lot! They just bundle up.
Anyway - we got to see 3 couples we have known for 30 years or so. Moose and Kay, Vic and Fred and Hauser (Steve) and Ann. Jeez - 30 years. That sounds like it should come from someone who IS old, and I don't feel that way. As I've said before in this blog - there is nothing like an old friend. They know all your stories, but laugh anyway (or perhaps because they thought it was funny 30 years ago and they still do).
I like that we can pick up where we left of with old friends - no need to wonder if they are some psycho-flake, who might seem like a cool person we'd like to know better, but turns out to be nothing like we thought. We know our friends' families, siblings, parents and pets.
Our friends' kids seem like nieces and nephews. We've celebrated each of their births and milestones like graduations. While our own chillins couldn't attend this trip, we did get to see some of the kids.
Kelli is the eldest - belonging to Vic and Fred. She was the "trial child" who all our children looked up to. She's now 24 and was kind enough to buzz down from the Twin Cities to see us. V&F's 2nd child Lauren is now a college frosh, and while usually quiet, she regaled us with stories of campus life at St. Olaf - a liberal arts college in Northfield.
M&K's Jaime was pretty much the reason for this wintry trip north. She is a high school senior and was visiting the U of M as a potential for her undergrad years. (I hope she is as lucky as I was in finding friends!). Jaime is a bit of a genius - scoring a perfect 36 on her ACT. We always knew she was intelligent, but WOW! Alyssa is her lil sis, and they seem to pretty close for sistas. Alyssa is outgoing and has always been quite a character. She's now a high school frosh.
We didn't get to see Steve and Ann's fam, as it was adults only at Buca de Bepo - a family style Italian joint in the Cities. It was a lot of fun and much like a family meal, we sat at our table long after the main course was devoured. The Hauser kids sound like they're doing fine - all growing up quickly as kids tend to do. Rachel, Ethan and Gracie keep their parents busy.
After we got home, we played Wii - my first time. Yep I was a Wii virgin. (don't worry I used protection - Vicki made sure we sealed the safety cord around our wrists so we didn't throw the controller thru their new flat screen). I sucked at cow races, and Paul was the worst archer ever.
I hope to post photos of our night as soon as someone emails me the evidence. Our drive home thru - gasp - snow, sleet, rain was not fun. We stopped in Ames to take our #1 son to lunch. He's turning out pretty good if I do say so myself. Then I talked to #1 daughter after I got back to my home away from home in Waukee. Sounds like all is well in Vail Valley.
Can't wait to go home Thursday - until then, there be garbage dragons to slay...
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Jesus comes first
I got stood up by a priest for a lunch date today. Yep, a guy with a collar (Fr. Howard Fitz) failed to meet me at Chef Joe’s today. We were supposed to meet at 11:30 a.m., so by 12ish even the waitress was feeling sorry for me. I’m sure they wondered why I wasn’t calling him on his cell. I would have, if he had one!
So when I finally did order and made my way back to work after lunch, I called his office to see if there was some religious emergency – perhaps last rites were needed, a rush job. Jesus does come before Leslie, the sometimes doubtful one.
But he emailed back and said he’d had a nice lunch at a place called Alba – down the block from Chef Joes. He’d forgotten my cell number and I guess the name of the restaurant we were meeting at. Oh well, I forgive him! He does have important stuff on his mind. I haven’t seen him for years though – so I hope we make another date real soon. This time we’ll go somewhere in his neighborhood, so I make sure he shows up.
I had a hot supper date with my roomie Joan and our friend, former Crestonite, Cyndy. Joan and Cyndy grew up not far from each other, but hadn’t seen each other in years. It was very enjoyable, and social after my solo lunch deal. I had a lovely lemondrop martini and a taco salad. A good time was had by all.
It will be a busy next few days as I go home tomorrow night, back to the Big City Friday a.m., Pablo the Pool Boy is picking me up here for a trek to Northfield, MN to visit our college friends – 3 couples. I’m excited to see all my old friends that knew me when I still had nice tight skin and no age spots! I’ve got more character now…right?
So when I finally did order and made my way back to work after lunch, I called his office to see if there was some religious emergency – perhaps last rites were needed, a rush job. Jesus does come before Leslie, the sometimes doubtful one.
But he emailed back and said he’d had a nice lunch at a place called Alba – down the block from Chef Joes. He’d forgotten my cell number and I guess the name of the restaurant we were meeting at. Oh well, I forgive him! He does have important stuff on his mind. I haven’t seen him for years though – so I hope we make another date real soon. This time we’ll go somewhere in his neighborhood, so I make sure he shows up.
I had a hot supper date with my roomie Joan and our friend, former Crestonite, Cyndy. Joan and Cyndy grew up not far from each other, but hadn’t seen each other in years. It was very enjoyable, and social after my solo lunch deal. I had a lovely lemondrop martini and a taco salad. A good time was had by all.
It will be a busy next few days as I go home tomorrow night, back to the Big City Friday a.m., Pablo the Pool Boy is picking me up here for a trek to Northfield, MN to visit our college friends – 3 couples. I’m excited to see all my old friends that knew me when I still had nice tight skin and no age spots! I’ve got more character now…right?
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
OMN
Old Man Noises
You hear it in the distance, in cubicleland. Those snarky, snotty Old Man Noises (OMN). The noises can come from a woman, but I've noticed that men mostly make them. Old ones, though younger ones can make some pretty impressive noises of their own.
My dad had a sneeze that could break the sound barrier. But he didn't make that sucking sinus noise. A guy I used to work with (old guy) used to make a weird OMN with his mouth somehow. I mostly noticed it while we were driving. I don't think he even knew he did it.
I'm sure I make some of my own strange and individual noises. I'm just used to 'em.
Headaches
I've gotten a migraine headache each of the last 3 days. So that's why I'm not real wordy. The pain seems to rob my brain of its creativity. Oooh I almost put it's. I hate it when I use it's/its and you're/your incorrectly.
My roomie Joanie and I are meeting a Creston buddy Cyndy for supper tomorrow night at the Club Car. S/b fun! Plus I'm meeting my old pal Father Howard Fitz for lunch. Hope he gives me some Catholic kudos.
You hear it in the distance, in cubicleland. Those snarky, snotty Old Man Noises (OMN). The noises can come from a woman, but I've noticed that men mostly make them. Old ones, though younger ones can make some pretty impressive noises of their own.
My dad had a sneeze that could break the sound barrier. But he didn't make that sucking sinus noise. A guy I used to work with (old guy) used to make a weird OMN with his mouth somehow. I mostly noticed it while we were driving. I don't think he even knew he did it.
I'm sure I make some of my own strange and individual noises. I'm just used to 'em.
Headaches
I've gotten a migraine headache each of the last 3 days. So that's why I'm not real wordy. The pain seems to rob my brain of its creativity. Oooh I almost put it's. I hate it when I use it's/its and you're/your incorrectly.
My roomie Joanie and I are meeting a Creston buddy Cyndy for supper tomorrow night at the Club Car. S/b fun! Plus I'm meeting my old pal Father Howard Fitz for lunch. Hope he gives me some Catholic kudos.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Paul's Prime Rib Recipe
Paul makes this for special occasions and it's fabuloso!
4 lb. will trimmed beef rib eye roast
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tsp dried rosemary leaves, crushed
Sauce: 1 jar (12 oz) brown beef gravy
1/4 cup currant jelly (he uses Welches Grape - not fancy, not currants but it works)
1 1/2 tsp dry mustard dissolved in 1 tsp water
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine garlic, salt, pepper and rosemary. Press evenly onto roast. Place on rach in shallow roasting pan. Insert meat thermometer so bulb is centered in thickest part, not resting in fat. Do no add water or cover. Roast approximately 18-22 minutes per pound for medium rare to medium doneness.
2. Remove roast when thermometer registers 140 degrees for medium rare, 155 for medium. Let stand 15 minutes. (temp will continue to rise)
3. Meanwhile in small saucepan, combine sauce ingredients; cook over medium heat 5 minutes, or until bubbly, stirring occasionally.
4. Carve roast into slices, serve with sauce 8-10 servings.
4 lb. will trimmed beef rib eye roast
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tsp dried rosemary leaves, crushed
Sauce: 1 jar (12 oz) brown beef gravy
1/4 cup currant jelly (he uses Welches Grape - not fancy, not currants but it works)
1 1/2 tsp dry mustard dissolved in 1 tsp water
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine garlic, salt, pepper and rosemary. Press evenly onto roast. Place on rach in shallow roasting pan. Insert meat thermometer so bulb is centered in thickest part, not resting in fat. Do no add water or cover. Roast approximately 18-22 minutes per pound for medium rare to medium doneness.
2. Remove roast when thermometer registers 140 degrees for medium rare, 155 for medium. Let stand 15 minutes. (temp will continue to rise)
3. Meanwhile in small saucepan, combine sauce ingredients; cook over medium heat 5 minutes, or until bubbly, stirring occasionally.
4. Carve roast into slices, serve with sauce 8-10 servings.
Breakin' up is hard to do
Photo at left shows me with my sisters - demonstrating that they got the hair gene that I'm missing. Left to right Betso, Me, Cindo and Suso. (youngest to matriarch).
Breakin' Up
I had to break up with my hairdresser this week. (Are we supposed to call them that? Or are they all stylists now?). It’s not her, it’s me. I just can’t drive to Corning for my monthly ‘do now that I’m commuting to the Big City.
It WAS hard to do – we’ve been together now for some 10+ years. We took a break a couple times – when she had babies. But we always got back together – because she cared enough to write me and invite me back. I worked in that area each month so it wasn't a special trip just for hair.
Letting someone invade my personal space isn’t easy for me. I don’t let just anyone touch my head! Add to that, the fact that I’m inept when it comes to doing hair, which is embarrassing in a way. Since I am a girl and we’re supposed to be good at that stuff. So when I get used to a hairdresser, and they understand that about me, I usually stick with him/her.
During the past twenty two years that we’ve lived in Creston, I’ve really only gone to three different people. Last Friday, I just knew it was time, so I dialed Hair House in Creston after consulting with Patti about potential hair-doeers during our a.m. walk. I made an appointment with Amber who was very nice and did a fine job on my locks. So today I wrote a short “Dear John” note to Sherry to let her know I won’t be back. It’s was the right thing to do, but I’m kinda sad though. I enjoyed hearing about her young family and filling her in on mine.
Alas, my hair is now getting gray enough that I can’t just highlight it to hide the cursed offending hairs. Sherry had been preparing me for this day for the past couple years. And Amber at Hair House confirmed it. Time to move onto Lowlighting and Highlighting. Shit! Wonder how much that’s going to cost?
I wish I had the type of hair that just turned a pretty silver overnight. I could live with that. But no, it’s a butt ugly salt and pepper, blotchy and wiry. Gray hair and wrinkles I curse ye! (that’s me having a moment, disturbed by signs of aging) But that doesn’t make them disappear. So I’ll continue, at least for now, my battle through the miracle of chemical enhancement. With my new hair guru.
It WAS hard to do – we’ve been together now for some 10+ years. We took a break a couple times – when she had babies. But we always got back together – because she cared enough to write me and invite me back. I worked in that area each month so it wasn't a special trip just for hair.
Letting someone invade my personal space isn’t easy for me. I don’t let just anyone touch my head! Add to that, the fact that I’m inept when it comes to doing hair, which is embarrassing in a way. Since I am a girl and we’re supposed to be good at that stuff. So when I get used to a hairdresser, and they understand that about me, I usually stick with him/her.
During the past twenty two years that we’ve lived in Creston, I’ve really only gone to three different people. Last Friday, I just knew it was time, so I dialed Hair House in Creston after consulting with Patti about potential hair-doeers during our a.m. walk. I made an appointment with Amber who was very nice and did a fine job on my locks. So today I wrote a short “Dear John” note to Sherry to let her know I won’t be back. It’s was the right thing to do, but I’m kinda sad though. I enjoyed hearing about her young family and filling her in on mine.
Alas, my hair is now getting gray enough that I can’t just highlight it to hide the cursed offending hairs. Sherry had been preparing me for this day for the past couple years. And Amber at Hair House confirmed it. Time to move onto Lowlighting and Highlighting. Shit! Wonder how much that’s going to cost?
I wish I had the type of hair that just turned a pretty silver overnight. I could live with that. But no, it’s a butt ugly salt and pepper, blotchy and wiry. Gray hair and wrinkles I curse ye! (that’s me having a moment, disturbed by signs of aging) But that doesn’t make them disappear. So I’ll continue, at least for now, my battle through the miracle of chemical enhancement. With my new hair guru.
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