Full Time Everything

THANKSforGIVING!

2011-11-08T08:20:00.000-08:00

It's November and I can hardly believe it. If you've been following along at all, you know that means I am a married woman. Sorry, fellas! The other big news is that we're expecting an addition to our home, and it's not a puppy like I'd hoped. That's right. Baby number two is holding court in my gut. It's been a menacing little punk, too! I've been feeling craptastic off and on for some time now, but I am hoping the worst of it is over. I'm approximately 11 weeks along, so I'm due for a break in the queasiness and cravings. It was a major surprise -- but at the end of the day, we're excited and happy and welcoming. It's a new chapter for all of us.

Back to the wedding, though. I usually tend to give extra thanks in November, for it IS the month of giving thanks. But this November I feel a stronger need to be thankful for my friends and family who helped me pull it all off. I'm not going to be thanking my husband, however, because he didn't really do shit. Ha ha!

First and foremost I want to thank my Mom and Pops, who helped pay a portion of the venue where the festivities took place, and who helped pull everything together last minute that was falling apart. They managed food, purchased last minute items, and helped clean up and move out. I couldn't have done it without you guys. (An extra thanks to my dad for walking me down the aisle. A moment every daughter dreams of!!)

An enormous thank you to my nephew, Jammin, who played a beautiful song on the piano while the wedding party walked in. It was the best present I got all evening.
It made the evening even more special, having him a part of it. The song choice was perfect and the delivery was flawless. Thanks to his mom, my sister Karmyn for helping him to perfect the song. My sister and her husband also helped with setting up. They strung paper lanterns and set tables, and for that I am forever grateful.

Another special thanks goes out to my friend Rashelle and her husband, Justin. They helped prepare food for the reception. Justin loves to cook and was insistent that I let him prepare and cook. I'm glad I agreed! I purchased some ingredients for fried rice, which was delicious. And then as our wedding present, Justin and Rashelle purchased chicken, prepared two different kinds of homemade marinades, and BBQ'd up some of the best chicken skewers EVER. Lots of compliments on the food, guys. And appreciated in a way you can't begin to imagine.

That thank you extends to Jaden, who helped the aforementioned lovebirds prepare the skewers, and also for helping me to find someone to do my hair and tend bar for the reception. It was great that she took care of that for me, as it was one less thing I had to do.

Now on to the bridal party. What can I say about my Maid of Honor, except that she's my best friend in the entire world. I've known her for 17 years and we've already shared a lifetime of memories. She looked absolutely beautiful in her gown. I couldn't imagine getting married without her by my side. Her and Jason, her incredible husband, paid for the linens as our wedding present. They will never know how much I appreciate that gesture. When I was in the throws of planning a wedding, I was overwhelmed by the vast majority of things to do, and the cost of those things to do. Their offer to help with that was welcomed and enormously appreciated. Olivia, Sara's daughter and one of my first loves, did her own part in helping to pull the wedding together, and I love and appreciate her, too.

Novella was my bridesmaid and only other attendant. She was also stunning in her dress. As I stood in the mirror and stared at the girls looking back at us, I realized that I made the perfect choice. Novella is the person who was supposed to be standing there with Sara and I, and I felt so thankful in that moment to have made such a great friend when I first moved to Portland. She brought floating candles for the center pieces, which was greatly appreciated... and she also gave a toast that brought tears to my eyes! Thank you, Novella, for everything.

Joey's brothers were his groomsmen, and I thank them wholeheartedly for being a part of our special day. His oldest brother, Gary, made the wedding cake. He spent a year with his family in France studying French baking and was eager and happy to make the cake for our special occasion. He made three tiers, each its own flavor.
He even made one tier gluten free to accommodate some of my guests. In the haste of the evening, I forgot to announce that and I'm afraid nobody knew. Nonetheless, an extra-special shoutout goes to Gary for making such a beautiful and yummy cake for us.

A MEGA thank you to my (now official) mother-in-law, Kathy. Kathy was responsible for so many things from beginning to end. She created the amazing invitations. They were perfect and I know she went to a ton of trouble to make them so. She brought cutlery and cups and napkins for the reception. She brought the fabric pens for the wedding quilt. (Unfortunately, there was a gang shooting not far from the ballroom and the mother and father of the groom were stuck in police traffic and almost late for the wedding! But they arrived and the show went on!) Kathy may never know how much her help was appreciated. However, I hope she does. I'm lucky to have her as my mother-in-law.

Thank you to Ashley for hooking me up with her grandma, who catered most of the event, and for helping with the food throughout the evening. It meant a lot!

Thank you to Janice for helping with the cake and for running last-minute errands!

Thank you to Angela for helping put together the centerpieces!

Thank you to Kendelle for helping me with so many of the little details and for all the support leading up to the big day!!

Thank you to my niece, Buttercup, for manning the quilt station and learning to adjust her position due to glitches in the plan.

Thank you to my daughter for being the most adorable flower girl ever!

Thank you to Odin, our nephew, for bearing the rings. He was awesome!

She ended up having to leave early because of some chest pain (and she's pregnant), but a HUGE thank you to Lynn Foster for doing our photographs! They turned out amazing and I appreciate her willingness to help.

Thank you to the best officiant this side of the Rockies. Kat was THE perfect choice and even my mother thought so. Kat's delivery of the vows (which I, ahem, wrote myself) was flawless and calming and perfect.
She helped out a ton with the set-up, too, which was beyond her scope of duties. She was amazing. Thanks, Kat!!

And thank you to all the people who pulled their weight and helped make this wedding possible. I appreciate each and every one of you for helping to make the wedding happen! There were glitches and hiccups along the way, but it came together and we were married, and that's all that mattered in the end. I am thankful for every person who traveled long-distance to be there. I am grateful for every person who gave up their Saturday night to witness such an important event. I read every card, cherished every gift, and love each and every person who was there in body AND spirit.

And I now pronounce you HUSBAND AND WIFE.

50 days

2011-09-02T09:28:00.000-07:00

50 days.
50 days until the BIG DAY.

I can't believe it's snuck up on us this fast. Am I prepared? No. Am I ready? Yes. After 9 years and a daughter together, I think we're fully aware of what we're getting ourselves into.

August proved to be a difficult and trying month for this family. Our car broke down, so we bought a new one. A week later, someone rear-ended our new car. We've had some financial constraints and surprises. There's been some drama at work, as always. But in the end, we're all alive and healthy. My beautiful sister has been battling thyroid cancer, and even she seems to be doing good. I don't pray in the traditional sense, but my sister and her family certainly got a lot of my positive thoughts and energy and love. I feel super fortunate to be as close to her as I am. Not all sisters are so lucky.....

My noodle is 7 years old as of June and will start 2nd grade in a few days. She's excited to meet her new teacher and see all her old friends, but I'm worried about mornings from here on out. I have a sleeper-inner on my hands. I'll be sure to post pictures of her first day.

Happy Labor Day weekend to you all. May the sun be shiny, the BBQ be smoky, and the wine by flowy.

Alphabet Soup of my Life.

2011-05-25T18:14:00.000-07:00

A is for apology. Yes, I am sorry. To the very few of you who bother to come here, I apologize for failing to update in over a year. I've been a terrible blogger and for that I am truly sorry.

B is for birthday. Friday the 20th of May marked the big 3-0 for me. I had all kinds of plans to celebrate, most of which were foiled. I'll spare you the details as it involves several different kinds of bodily fluids.

Needless to say, I turned 30 despite the complications and I lived to tell about it. I guess I'm a real adult now?

C is for contentment. Life is good! And while I should jump on here and share the joys of my life, I choose rather to live in the moment. Like with my poetry, oftentimes I find I have less to say when things are good. It is through writing I find my solace.

D is for death. The one inevitability, eh? I cried as my sister said goodbye to her beloved pet, Zoe. I hung my head in sorrow when my friend Regina passed away on Saturday. We lost a frog and a few fish from our miniature tank; my daughter took it okay.

E is for employed, although the word is a bit deceiving. I'm not technically an employee anywhere; I'm an independent contractor. Yes, yes! I am finally certified and working. It only took six long years, but I am a full-fledged career woman now. My job is demanding, but I get to work a lot from home. That is always a good thing.

F is for family. I feel so blessed that I get to spend time with my family a lot; both the family I've chosen AND the family I was given. My parents come to visit as often as they can. I enjoyed attending the Home and Garden show here in Portland with my dad, my sister and my brother-in-law. We've also been known to dine out at our favorite Thai place when we get together. My family is my number one, hands down.

G is for group sex. Just kidding. I just wanted to see if you were still paying attention. G is actually for good health. My sister was diagnosed late last year with a rare form of thyroid cancer. She recently received some good news from her doctor that allowed our family to breathe a huge sigh of relief. She still has to endure iodine radiation, but the prognosis is good; for that I am so thankful.

H is for hitched. Yup, you read it right. We are getting married. When we finally say the big "I DO," we will have celebrated almost nine years as a couple. So while this has been coming for some time, it was a pleasant surprise to our families who've been mighty tolerance of our living in sin. (Hey Mom, you can't call Joey your sin-in-law anymore!)

I is for I really hope I can come up with something for the crappy letters in the alphabet.

J is for Joey. Three random reasons why I know Joey's going to make me a happy wife. 1 - we've been together for 8+ years and I still get flutterbies in my stomach when I see the car pull into the driveway. 2 - we've been together 8+ years and we can still stay up late talking about absolutely anything. 3 - we've been together 8+ years and he still grabs my butt when I'm doing the dishes, even though he knows I absolutely hate it.

K is for Karmyn. My sister. My friend.
I could say a lot, but all I need to say is that I'm lucky to have a sister like her and I'm grateful for every day I have with her in my life.

L is for love. Speaks for itself. <3

M is for music. I don't care how busy we get, we always make time for some good tunes. I went with my dad and my friend Kendelle last summer to see The Doobie Brothers in concert at Edgefield. I also saw Ani Difranco in Seattle with a few girlfriends. We had an amazing time. There are so many concerts coming to Portland this summer and I can't choose which ones I really have to see.

N is for neighbors. Long story short, we hate them. We want to move, but having a hard time finding something else we like and can afford our current school district. We don't want to pull our daughter out of her school; she's already going to be in 2nd grade and has established important friendships that we don't want to deprive her of. But UGH. I can't take it much longer!

O is for October. The 22nd of October, to be exact.

P is for promise. I do promise to keep my blog more current. I can't promise I'll write every day or even every week, but I promise I won't let another year go by. P is also for pinkie swear.

Q is for quit. I quite smoking New Years Eve 2009 and I haven't looked back. I haven't had a cigarette for a year and a half and I couldn't be happier. My lungs couldn't be happier. Yes, I've put on a few pounds since quitting, but who cares. Well worth it, don't ya think??

R is for reading. My daughter is a terrific reader and was doing so at a 2nd grade level half way through her 1st grade year.
(Another random reason that I know Joey is amazing? He reads her a chapter every night before bed from her fairy book series. And he LOVES it.)

S is for Sara. She is my best friend and has been since the 6th grade. She will be my maid of honor
(and only attendant, for that matter) in our wedding. I feel so blessed to have a lifelong friend in her.

T is for transcription. You would not BELIEVE how much time I sit in front of this computer working on transcrips for attorneys. It is not uncommon for me to do 50-100 pages a day in editing. It's long, trying, painstaking, and oftentimes boring, but it pays well. I have my mother to thank for helping me in the editing process. Without her I might've lost my hair by now.

U is for unclear. We're still unclear whether we'll be going on a honeymoon after we get married. There are a lot of factors at play. If we could go anywhere in the world, we've narrowed it down to Ireland, South America, or Fiji. More likely, we will end up at the Oregon coast. And guess what, as long as I have nowhere to go and no one to clean up after, THAT IS FINE WITH ME!

V is for vaccine. Our kiddo was vaccinated against Whooping Cough as recommended by her pediatrician when she was little. We got notice from her school that there were several cases of Whooping Cough in her school and her class, so when she came down with a terrible cough that resulted in her throwing up, we got worried. Her doc diagnosed her instead with bronchitis and prescribed her some meds and sent her home. She's doing much better.

W is for where the heck is summer?!? I'm sick of the rain. I need some sunshine. It's almost June for shit's sake!!

I'm skipping X, people. Sorry. I'm just not feeling that creative today.
Y is for yippee! I'm almost done.

Z is for zesty. I'm going to make some zesty lemon chicken for dinner. So with that, I bid you farewell. I leave you with a few pictures to enjoy until next time.

Hello, 2010

2010-02-03T12:12:00.000-08:00

Doesn't that just look wrong? 2010. It looks and sounds futuristic, like the setting of some movie where robots work as grocery clerks and car mechanics; where we can plant ourselves in some cellular discombobulator and get beamed to our destination. Then we wouldn't need cars!

Speaking of cars, we were involved in a minor car accident on Christmas Eve. We grabbed lunch with my mom and dad at Burgerville and then headed to my sister's place to celebrate the holiday with good food, wine, and board games. Some A-hole backed into me while I was attempting to leave the parking lot and the rest is history. After retaining an attorney and going toe-to-toe with the other guy's insurance, we've finally managed to settle. Long story short -- the insurance company totalled our car, saying it would cost more to fix the car than it was worth. Joey went to u-pull and found an exact match to our driver's side door (where the majority of the damage was) for $200. After we get an adjustment to the alignment, which is on the agenda for tomorrow, the car will be close to pre-accident condition. Dumb insurance company could've saved themselves a few pretty pennies and everyone a whole lot of energy.

Joey and I are celebrating seven years together this month. It's been seven years of ups and downs, but we love each other and are thankful that we've stuck it out. We left our Pumpkin with my sister for one night and went to the Oregon Coast. We had a fantastic dinner, went bowling, drank some champagne, and walked on the beach. It was a much-needed treat.

Curly Mop was twirling and dancing last night with her friend from upstairs when she tripped and fell face-first into my elliptical. She bloodied her nose and she split open her eyelid, as well as her cheek. She has a goose egg the size of a golf ball on her forehead. She didn't want to go to school today because she didn't want her friends to see her "like that." But I let her pick out her own outfit and that distracted her long enough that she forgot about the bumps and bruises.

The quote of the month - perhaps even the quote of the YEAR - comes from my Aunt Sherry while she was recovering from major surgery. She was quite loopy and silly after doctors removed a cantaloupe-sized tumor from her chest, but Dad and I stopped in at the hospital to check on her anyway. She was sitting quietly in the dark. I asked her, "Aunt Sherry, would you like me to turn on the television?" She responded, "Well, no. I don't have my glasses so I wouldn't be able to see anything." Dad chimed in, "I bet you'd really like to watch some 'Price is Right,' wouldn't you." Sherry smiled a toothy grin. "Or maybe I'd like to watch 'Who wants to be a Fibroid!" Ha ha ha!! Classic.

Sorry I didn't post any holiday blogs. I hope the season found you warm, full, and surrounded by the people you love. Wouldn't it be amazing if 2010 could bring warmth and food and love to everyone around the world? To Haiti, Darfur, Iraq, Somalia.. the list goes on. I continue to believe that a time will come when PEACE is a global phenomenon. I love you all.

Ode to Autumn

2009-10-28T23:33:00.000-07:00

Oh, Autumn.

You've brought us the reds
I admire your golds,
thank you for wood smoke
but not for the colds.

I love hot apple cider
carving pumpkins we grew,
you bring dinners with family
and the seasonal flu.

Oh Autumn.

School days and costumes
isn't all that we've got!
There's cocoa and snuggles
and phlegmy green snot.

The nights are chilly
and the days are short,
the stuff in my chest
makes me choke, gag and snort.

Oh Autumn.

I can see my breath
hang gently on the air,
with the rest of my family
my germs I do share.

I look forward to turkey
to presents and a new year,
and it leaves no question,
the flu season is here.
Amanda '09

Yes, it is true. I haven't posted in a long time. For this, I apologize. I have the feeling, though, that you are all getting along just fine without me.

Not only have I been sicker than sick for the past three weeks, hence the inspiration for my work of art above, but we managed to get the most vicious, indescribable virus on my laptop. And as a result, we went a little while with limited or no computer/Internet. BUT!!! We are back and better than ever.

I hope autumn is treating you better than it's treating my lungs and chest cavity. Curly Mop is officially a kindeeeeegartner so we're getting exposed to Lord Knows Everything. She loves school and is eager to go every morning. I am enjoying the time alone, especially when I am feeling like CRAP and can take a real nap.

I will be posting the inevitable Halloween costume pictures as soon as we are done asking strangers for candy. I hope you all have a wonderful Halloween with your kids, grand kids, friends, neighbors.

CURLY MOP SINGING WITH HER CLASS ON GRANDPARENTS' DAY
KINDERGARTEN

Red Pepper with Lime Soup

2009-09-01T21:09:00.000-07:00

For the past six months, Tuesday nights have been dedicated to friends and good food. Every week (with the exception of a few, of course...) I hand pick a new and interesting soup to make for dinner and my friends bring appetizers and wine to pair. The night usually ends with an exciting game of Apples to Apples or Sporcle.

The recipe I am going to share came from The Soup Bible, which was a Christmas gift from my Mom and Dad a few years ago. I tweeked the recipe slightly from the book by changing and adding a few things. This is, to date, one of my favorite soups ever. It's easy to make and super healthy.

** Amanda's tips **
1.) I tried to make this for my folks at their house and used a food processor instead of a blender. It was chunky and settled to the bottom of the bowl. It really needs to be pureed in a blender. This might require you to do sections of the soup one at a time, but the little bit of extra work is really worth it. Whatever you do, don't leave the top on the blender. It needs to breathe, otherwise it'll explode hot soup all over you and your kitchen. Instead of using the lid, cover the top of the blender with a washcloth or a paper towel. Don't fill the blender too full otherwise you might have a mess on your hands. Literally.

2.) Pair this soup with a meat. We made a fresh salad and topped it with thinly cut, grilled steak; topped it off with a Vidalia onion dressing and it was very complimentary!!

3.) If you want your soup to have a bigger kick to it, you can add a second or third red chili to your soup.

You will need:

2 large onions
5 red peppers
2 tsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 red chili, sliced (aka red jalapeno)
3 tbsp tomato puree
4 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock if you are going for vegetarian here)
1 lime
3 cups fresh smoked apple wood cheddar cheese (any kind of smoked cheddar will do)

Chop the onions and red peppers, cook in olive oil for about 5 minutes or until slightly tender. Add garlic, chili, tomato puree, and half the chicken stock. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 10 minutes.

While the stock simmers, grate the lime. Set aside the lime rind and then slice lime into segments.

Let it cool for a few minutes and then puree (by sections) in a blender. Return the puree to the pot and add the remaining stock, lime rind, salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup back to a boil and then serve hot! Squeeze fresh lime(s) into individual servings. Top with smoked cheese, fresh ground pepper, lime rind. And enjoy!

Spinach Lasagna

2009-08-31T17:50:00.001-07:00

My friend Carolyn keeps bugging me to post recipes on my blog. As of late, my Facebook updates have consisted of what we had for dinner and apparently she is hard up for dinner ideas. Accordingly, by request, I will be posting some of my favorite dishes on here. I will warn you... I've had no formal training and I've never claimed to be anything but hungry. :)

You will need:

Uncooked Lasagna noodles (how many will depend on how much you are cooking...)
1 bunch fresh baby spinach
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup butter
olive oil
1 large onion
5 garlic cloves
1 1/2 lbs shredded chicken
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup cottage cheese
3 cups mozzarella cheese
3 cups heavy cream
dash of parsley, dried or fresh

** Amanda's Tips **
1.) Most recipes will call you to cook the lasagna noodles. If you are baking this in a round pan, you may have to boil them til they are al dente. For me, I've found that they're easier to handle if they are uncooked. As long as you have a rectangular dish And as long as you have plenty of sauce in there while it cooks, the noodles will actually cook and soften in the oven. It saves time and I think it helps to keep firm.

2.) Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese. And if you want the cheese in the lasagna to be extra fluffy, whip an egg vigorously and add it to the mix.

3.) For a super lowfat alternative, use turkey!

Heat pan, add oil. Add chopped onion. When the onion is browned, add chicken. When the chicken is fully cooked, set it aside. After it cools, shred or chop chicken. You will add this chicken to your Alfredo sauce.

In a saucepan, heat butter until mostly melted. Add heavy cream and simmer for five minutes. Add garlic and Parmesan cheese and whisk quickly until sauce thickens. Add parsley, chicken, set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta, cottage and 2 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese. (Add whipped egg here if desired) Then begin layering your lasagna.

One layer noodles
One layer cheese mix
One layer Spinach (remember, Spinach cooks down a ton so you'll need a heaping handful of spinach....)
One layer of chicken Alfredo sauce. (use this sauce sparingly IN the lasagna, as most of it will go on top)
Repeat. Top layer should be the rest of the Alfredo sauce.

Cover with tin foil and cook at 350 for 40 minutes. Then remove foil and add remaining mozzarella cheese to the top of lasagna. Cook for additional 10 minutes. Let lasagna cool and serve with garlic bread and fresh salad.

Viola!

Phrodigy

2009-08-06T10:22:00.000-07:00

Growing up, I was always the girl snapping pictures. I have several large boxes full of old pictures to prove it. (Thank goodness for digital, right? A good number of those pictures are blurry, off-centered, and unnescessary.) Photography was something I always wanted to study further; I still may.

My mother also has a knack for photography. She has a creative eye that allows her to capture the essence of a sunset, the delicacy of a flower, her love for her family.

Well, my little Curly Mop has followed in the footsteps of her matriarchy and picked up her handy camera. (Well, it's my camera but I let her use it. I'm a good mommy like that.) I'm fascinated when I spy her art; it's like looking at everything through her eyes.

Following photographs compliment of Miss Mop.

Squirrel in Grandma's backyard.

I think it's time she gets her OWN camera. Whatdya think?

A Painful Goodbye.

2009-06-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

In the wee hours of this morning, we received a dreaded phone call: Our friend D lost his fight against brain cancer.

After the initial shock wore off, we cried. Held each other and wept.

And again I am faced with the shocking and disheartening revelation that the more people you love, the more loss you face.

I find minimal comfort in knowing that he is no longer suffering. Minimal only because those of us left behind suffer now. I smile a little, knowing that he was surrounded by his family when his end came. But then I frown for I know the agony they endured having to say goodbye, one final time. I am super thankful that I had the pleasure of knowing such a wonderful, wonderful man. But I hate this finality.

May you rest in peace, my friend. I will remember your smile and laughter ALWAYS.

Birthday and The Falls

2009-05-22T22:41:00.000-07:00

Two more years 'til the dirty thirty.

I just celebrated my 28th birthday. I don't feel 28. I remember when I thought 28 was old. Now here I am and I don't feel like I'm pushing thirty at all! (except when I wake up in the morning and my arches ache and I drag ass.....) I understand what my dad means now when he says his age doesn't reflect at all how he feels. He still feels like a young man.

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I'm awaiting a second round of test results. When they said it might take six weeks to get the results via snail mail, I thought they were exaggerating. It's been almost four weeks now and nothing. I hold me breath every time I open the mailbox. I'm hoping and praying that I was successful in at LEAST one of the three tests but I'm trying not to have expectations. It's when you have expectations that you are disappointed.

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Curly Mop is going to see Auntie Karmyn tomorrow. My friends all pitched in to help order the UFC fight for my birthday so we are going to have a potluck style BBQ with some good grub and then watch a good fight. I figure my 5 year old doesn't need to watch two guys beat the hell out of each other, but I do. So she is going to have a sleepover with her cousins instead. She can't stop talking about feeding worms to the chickens and playing Feed the Kitty, her favorite board game, with Jammin and Buttercup.

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The Mister's work cut back his hours so money is super tight right now. (Thanks a lot, economy.) So when he and Curly Mop asked me what I wanted to do, I told them I wanted to hike Multnomah Falls. Even though I've lived in Portland for 8+ years, the Columbia Gorge and the Falls never get old. "Hike" is a relative term with a 5 year old, keep in mind, so basically we checked out the Falls, walked a few paths, and had bagel sandwiches for lunch. It was the absolute perfect day for it; not too cold, not too hot. There weren't too many people there, so it turned out to be a very pleasant afternoon. We got some good pictures, too. I'll share them with ya - and you better enjoy them because Lord only KNOWS when I will be posting again.
Love you all.

Multnomah Falls.

My two loves.

She's getting so big!! She loved all the little nooks and caves she could crawl into.

There were so many beautiful flowers, tons of birds, and we even saw an adorable little chipmunk. He was too damn fast for me to catch a picture.

She was scared to death on the bridge. She was holding on for dear life.

And in case you are wondering which bridge I am talking about, it's this one. When you stand on it, you get sprinkled with the mist coming off the water. On this particular day, there was enough of a breeze that our hair was soaked by the time we crossed it. But we laughed and giggled our way across. It was warm enough that the mist felt great. Multnomah Falls is one of my favorite places EVER.

Silly

2009-05-08T13:46:00.001-07:00

Just some fun stuff to make you smile.
Hope you are having a great day!

(Then wouldn't you go vegetarian?)

(Because Sexting is all the rage these days.....)

(For us ladies....)

SIGH.

2009-04-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it doesn't even seem worth it anymore.

Yup.

2009-04-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

YUP, THAT IS MY DAUGHTER. ANY CHANCE FOR A PHOTO OP.

YUP, THAT IS MY DAUGHTER. LOOKS JUST LIKE HER DAD.

YUP, THAT'S MY DAUGHTER. PLAYING MOMMY. (I opted NOT to share the picture of her "nursing" her stuffed Super Mario doll.......)

YUP. THAT IS MY DAUGHTER. TRYING TO BE BRAVE AT THE DENTIST.

YUP. THIS IS MY DAUGHTER WITH HER PET MICE. (I wish I had a picture of Mommy kickin' daddy's ass for bringing these suckers home.) SHE NAMED THEM SNOWBALL AND CHOCOLATE.

THIS IS MY DAUGHTER WITH HER GREAT GRANDPA MAC, WHO PASSED AWAY EARLIER THIS WEEK. WE'LL MISS YOU GRANDPA MAC! And we love you.

Spring Break '09

2009-03-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

Spring Break, by Curly Mop

I went to the Oregon Coast for Spring Break. I celebrated a few days of fun and relaxing with Grandma and Grandpa, Auntie Karmyn and my cousins. It was cold and rainy, but that didn't stop us from enjoying family time!!

We went to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. My favorite part was the seahorses and the shark tank.

Myself, Jammin' and Buttercup played until we dropped. The big kids fought over who got to rock and comfort The Caboose, who wasn't feeling awesome. Sniffles and cough aside, he was as cute as could be and we all loved watching him smile at the fish in the aquarium.

We saw seals playing in the surf. We saw gulls circling where the D river meets the sea and we saw lots of starfish and anemones in the tide pools.

We absolutely LOVE the beach. I can't wait to go back.

The hottest new video!!

2009-03-09T12:37:00.000-07:00

This is just plain awesome.

I'm gonna say this and then go to bed....

2009-03-01T22:40:00.000-08:00

Just in case anyone was wondering............

**********************

I took the Oregon state exams on Friday. My first (but not last) attempt at my Court Reporter's license. It was more a trial run than an attempt. I didn't know what to expect when I got there AND Oregon has the highest testing standards in the nation, so I wasn't putting too much pressure on myself to pass. It was an experience I will not soon forget. After six hours of straight adrenaline bombarding my body, I left the Justice Building in our state's capital feeling drunk and disoriented. (I was faring better than the woman who was hit by a car and left lying in the intersection by my car, though!) I have to wait upwards of six weeks for the results of my exams, but I plan on taking the National tests in May regardless of these results. So I have been MIA for the past few weeks because I've been preparing for the first of many important days in my new career.

**********************

My friend Dee is 29 years old and fighting for his life for the third time. He was recently diagnosed with his third brain cancer, after having been in remission for the past several years. His decline has been rapid. We visited our hometown Valentine's Day weekend and spent some time with him. We saw him again today on his way home from a small, ocean-side "spiritual union" with his fiance (he will not marry her legally because he refuses to leave her with his medical debt) and it's amazing how fast he's failing. There is nothing worse than watching a young, vibrant, loving, funny, honest-to-god good person go through what D has gone through. He lost his mom a year ago to cancer and now he's fighting to save his own life. I can't imagine the pain and fear his family is experiencing.... well then again, I can. Dee's symptoms are strikingly similar to Jordan's before he lost his own fight against the disease. It's been hard for me to watch. The Mister is taking is pretty hard; him and Dee were best friends in high school and roomies for many years. If you can find a moment to, close your eyes and say a little prayer for my friend. Or send some positive thoughts and energy his way. At this point, I think we need all the help we can get.

**********************

I'm fighting my own battles. But the previous blurb here puts my problems into perspective. I don't know if I've pinched a nerve or two.... or what is going on. But the left-hand side of my body HURTS. It started with my lower left back (which I chalked up to my February 2000 car accident), but then it spread to my knee and ankle, then ultimately to my wrist and left thumb. I don't know what is causing the pain, but it doesn't seem to be going away. It feels like I sprained one side of my body. Someone mentioned to me an anti-inflammatory diet; I think I'm going to look into that. Another day I wish I had health insurance.

**********************

I've been dreaming vividly again. I have the ultimate love/hate relationship with my dreams. I love that I remember them so that I can psychoanalyze them, but sometimes I wake up and I don't want to go back to sleep. Some things are too real for my liking. What does it all mean?

**********************

Oh, and I've suddenly developed a love affair with Jameson.

**********************

Mom and Dad were in Portland this weekend for the annual Lawn and Garden show at the convention center. I wanted to take full advantage of having overnight babysitters, so The Mister and I used our free movie coupons and went to the Academy Theater to see Defiance. We both give it two thumbs UP! We thoroughly enjoyed the movie. We understand that it is made in Hollywood and much of the movie's details were fiction. But the story is based on a novel written by a descendant of three brothers who escaped with their lives after a German attack on their Jewish community in WWII. They retreat into the woods, where they meet other Jews who have fled. They begin their own little resistance against the Germans. And in case you want to see the movie, I won't spoil it for you. But I will say that despite the few nit-picky things that I inevitably found, the movie was well-written and directed and is worth seeing. I give it my personal recommendation, which says a lot because I am the ultimate movie critic. :)

*******************

Mom has got me on a genealogy kick. More posts to come!

Peace and Love to my friends and family this Sunday evening. May something wonderful happen in each and every one of your lives this week.

My interview

2009-01-30T10:14:00.000-08:00

My sister Karmyn interview me.
These are the questions and answers.

#1 - Music is a mainstay in your life. Who has been the most influential artist for you? Ani Difranco. No questions asked. (Ani Difranco - The Atom) Listen to it! Although, there are some close runner-ups, including Fiona Apple and The Judds.

#2 - When you complete school and earn your licenses, how do you plan on celebrating? Well, Mom and Dad said they'd throw me a party and have it catered by my favorite Thai restaurant. But after that, I think I'll rent out a private room at my favorite karaoke bar and invite everyone I know to come celebrate. Or maybe a huge BBQ with badminton and hacky sackin? Or maybe both!

#3 - CurlyMop will be starting Kindergarten next fall. What will you miss most about her baby years? What WON'T I miss? I think most of all, I will miss our mornings together. She brings her blanket and favorite animal and crawls in bed with me. We lay there for ten or fifteen minutes and chat. Sometimes we just snuggle and go back to sleep. When she starts school, we won't have the luxury of wasting that precious morning time.

#4 - Recently I was thinking about the changes our grandparents saw during our lifetime. What scientific and technological breakthroughs can you imagine we'll see when we are 80? I certainly hope that we've broken our dependence on fossil fuels! I don't think there will be flying cars, but if we pull our heads out of our asses, we might have cars that run on renewable energy! I think that virtual reality is going to explode; by the time my great-grandkids are my age, video games are going to be out-of-this-world realistic and it's going to scare the shit out of us old-timers.

#5 - What's your favorite ice cream? This is an unfair question, simply because I have different favorites depending on my mood. The longest running favorite is orange sherbet, but I mash it and mush and twist it until it is soft serve. Mmmmmmm. But I have a fondness for Fudge & Caramel, too.

Want me to interview YOU? Just ask!!

I'm alive.

2009-01-24T23:58:00.000-08:00

I'm alive. And reading all of your blog postings. I don't always comment, but I am reading and enjoying.

I'm wrapped up in self-doubt over an impending state exam for my first court reporteing license; also engrossed in a transcription job I took from a friend. Making my own money for the first time in 4+ years! It's awesome. Unfortunately, the publisher is out of the country until the first week of February, so I haven't gotten paid yet. Counting down the days, though.....

I keep telling myself that I am going to write down and post all of the funny things that Curly Mop is saying... but life happens so fast, and she says so many hilarious things that I'm slacking. Four is a great age. Her favorite show is Imagination Movers and her favorite characters is Mario. She plays Mario and Luigi and Princess and Toadstool. Her arch enemy is Bowser; and she won't let anyone forget it.

Portland is cold and windy so we're spending a lot of time inside. Made myself and The Mister a screwdriver this evening and now we're watching UFC. Good night, world. I'm going to tell you all about the strange dreams I've been having, and I'm going to try to post some more music for you. Hope this blog finds you all in good health and happiness. WELCOME PRESIDENT OBAMA!

2009

2008-12-31T18:48:00.000-08:00

Holy shit!

That means my Ten Year High School Reunion is coming up!! Better lose a billion pounds!!

Happy New Year everyone! May the new year bring peace and happiness.

Merry (cold & snowy) Christmas!

2008-12-24T10:43:00.000-08:00

Wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas with your family and friends. May your food be warm, your hearts be merry, and your egg nog be rummed. Fa la la la la, la la la la!!

Music Mania #17

2008-12-18T14:53:00.000-08:00

The The Rumble Strips are a band from Devon in Southwest England. The band is comprised of five members who have been friends since childhood: Charlie Waller, Henry Clark, Tom Gorbutt, Matt Wheeler and Sam Mansbridge. These boys have the classic English accent, but bring a fun and exciting sound to their songs.

The first song I heard by The Rumble Strips was called "Motorcycle." I knew after thirty seconds of that song that I was going to dig this band. Their upbeat tempo and interesting lyrics always keep me singing along.
And even though they have only release one full-length album, I am anxiously anticipating their next (currently) untitled album, set for release in March of 2009.

Please enjoy the fun and unique sound of The Rumble Strips! I hope you like them as much as I do.

The Rumble Strips - Motorcycle

The Rumble Strips - Alarm Clock

and a bonus track!

The Rumble Strips - My, Oh My

Dear Santa

2008-12-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

(Curly Mop's letter to Santa Clause, transcribed word-for-word by me)

Dear Santa,
How 'bout presents.
How 'bout Christmas tree.
How 'bout Dora presents.
I gonna go to Aunty Karmyn's house.
Markers. Crayons.
Toys.
How 'bout paper for Christmas.
I'm a good girl this year.
Oh goodness, Mama! Christmas!
How 'bout some animals.
Pens.
Ride your reindeer!
That's enough.

Love,
Curly Mop

Snow Daze

2008-12-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

I slept like a log last night. This rarely happens. I think it had something to do with the fact that my friend Kendelle and I bundled up the kids and trekked across town by feet and bus in 20 degree weather. It was an experience, to say the least. (We actually had a really good time, it was just reeeeeeally cold.) So we came home and had hot cocoa and I put Curly Mop to bed. I wrapped a few presents and then curled up on the couch next to the oil heater and drifted of into sweet slumber. I woke up feeling so refreshed!! Then I looked around at my dirty house and wanted to go back to bed.

We had ~5 inches of snow the other day; this doesn't seem like a lot to some folks, but we Western Oregonians aren't used to this. Even though I grew up in the snow and feel semi-comfortable driving in it, I won't even attempt to hit the roads. Portlanders are notorious for being bad drivers in the snow. Rain? No problem. Snow? People are abandoning their cars on the highways and the entire city is shutting down. It's insanity, really. And we expecting two more storms in the next five days. It's just fine with me; I love the snow and I LOVE being housebound because of it.

Curly Mop and her friend Chippy love it, too. They spent the better part of a day catching snowflakes on their tongues and throwing snowballs.

There was a surprise attack from behind ON my behind, compliments of Curly Mop and her dad. Snow thugs, I tell you! Nothing like a snow storm to turn grown men into little boys.

I hope all of you are staying warm and safe this holiday season. Did it sneak up on you like it did me? It's going to be 2009; my high school reunion is next summer. ARGH! Check back tomorrow to see if I had the gumption to post a music mania.

Oh, Dear

2008-12-10T12:59:00.000-08:00

Dear (insert you know who here)

GROW THE FUCK UP!

Gram

2008-12-06T14:54:00.000-08:00

I had a Gram. She was scented like an overgrown rose bush.

Sometimes, I'll pass an old woman on the street, in the mall, and she will smell familiar. The scent plunges into my body, whisking me away to a simpler time of candy corn and brown plaid rocking chairs. I remember the way her red lipstick would creep into the creases around her mouth; aging was foreign to me then.

Full of Love

2008-12-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

Bjork:
Strange.
Beautiful.
Bizarre.
Amazing.

I love her.

Tardy and Farty

2008-12-02T09:56:00.000-08:00

I'm tardy because I meant to post a thanksgiving post. I'm farty because all that turkey has dropped itself squarely into my lower intestine. I suppose this is a good time to ask yourself whether I really am gaseous or if I was simply taken by the catchy headline......

Ah, thanksgiving. We stuff ourselves to the gills with gravy-smothered taters and tryptophan; then we are supposed to be thankful for our family and friends. I'm just thankful that I own a pair of sweats I can still fit into. Really though, I am thankful every single day for the people in my life. I stare into the face of my daughter every single day and think about how lucky I am to have a happy, healthy, hilarious chitlin. I am thankful for the Mister, who works so hard to provide us with meals and a place to live. I am thankful for Mom and Dad who support me in every sense of the word. (and for taking care of my cat.) And for my sisters who love me unconditionally. I am especially thankful for Kar, as her and I have developed a very strong bond over the past decade. (and for taking care of my other cat!) I am thankful for each and every one of my nieces and nephews; they are all smart and kind and beautiful. I have amazing friends too. I love all of you.

Today I am helping my friend move. She's been evicted in the same way that we were almost exactly a year ago. As you can imagine, I jumped at the opportunity to help her. I know how frustrating it is to be forcibly removed from your home during the holidays due to no fault of your own. It is sprinkling here in Portland; I am crossing my fingers that it will cease long enough to move her crap without getting soaked.

I'm keeping a list of all of the funny things Curly Mop has been saying and I will be posting some of my favorites. In the meantime, check back in a few days for a new Music Mania. I hope you all had a great holiday. And I hope you boycotted Black Friday by sleeping instead of mass-consuming.

Nostalgia

2008-11-22T09:59:00.001-08:00

It is a cold, dark, dreary Saturday morning in November. I adore Portland. Something about the days like this takes me back to my childhood: hot chocolate; my cat purring; getting bundled up in mittens and two pairs of socks. It is outside where I experienced the whip of the November breeze across my rosy cheeks, the scent of a freshly raked pile of wet leaves. The backyard was my little fenced-in world, waiting to be conquered.

I miss the innocence of being a child. I hate myself for ever wanting to grow up.

Mandy's Music Mania #16

2008-11-13T09:51:00.000-08:00

Doing it a little different today. Please be patient while all of the music loads!

Sometimes I wonder if I'm the only person surrounded by imbiciles. Then I look around and realize that crazy, stupid people are everywhere. And it makes me feel like I'm going batty, too.

Brett Dennen - Make Me Crazy

Friends. Family. Strangers on the bus. The dude that bags my groceries. They are all crazy. Certifiably insane. Or, is it possible that the world is okay, and I am the one who should be committed? Am I going to wake up one day and pull some Silence of the Lambs bullshit?

Greenskeepers - Lotion

At least I know I'm not crazy enough to pull any Susan Smith bullshit.

Caroline Herring - Paper Gown

There are mornings when I wake up and realize that there is nothing left in this town that is pleasing me....

The Rumble Strips - Cowboy

.... and that I'd be less crazy if I could fly above or swim deep within the salty waves of the sea.

Ween - Ocean Man

But instead, I am caught in this neverending loop of insanity! Held together by short-ciruiting wires; waking up every day and doing the same thing over and over and over, like Groundhogs Day or a bad video game.

Mazedude - See Sixty Funk

I suppose everyone knows somebody crazy. Somebody who is full of drama, full of negativity; wherever that person goes, it always rains around them.

The Weepies - Jolene

Truth be told, I am not crazy. I'm actually one of the normal ones. I am simply surrounded by idiots and assholes and drama queens. At the end of the day, what keeps me from committing myself or murders is my daughter. My daughter, Miss Ani D, and a smooth glass of red wine.

Ani Difranco from her new album - Good Luck.

A week in pictures

2008-10-27T13:43:00.001-07:00

Photo taken by ME.
Camera belongs to MOM.
Whitman Mission.

Photo taken by Grandma
Curly Mopster.
My little scarecrow

Photo by Ginger.
Halloween Party.
Amanda as Pimpy Loosestocking, Pippi's gutterslut sister &
Jaden as Cheyenne, White-trash Biker Babe.

Photo by ME.
Grandma and Grandpa's backyard.
Smile that melts Me.

Life and Death and School.

2008-10-10T11:54:00.001-07:00

It's been a long time, hasn't it.

I've been extremely busy.

I am on my last leg of school. (wooooo hooooooooooooo!) I haven't had much free time to play. I'm enrolled in academic courses this quarter and the Procedures class is kickin my ass.

The last week of September, my Aunt Brenda lost her fight against breast cancer. Brenda was a quiet and kind woman who never lost hope and never lost faith. She left behind her husband and two grown children. Although, her youngest son is autistic so even though he is an adult, he requires 24 hour care. I worry about how the family will cope without her. Breast cancer is such a horrible disease. Just three days before Brenda died, Curly Mop and I walked five miles in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. I was disappointed that we didn't raise more money, but was proud to have been a part of such a worthy cause. My family has been so affected by cancer that I can not put into words how the term itself causes me to tremble.

Please visit this woman's blog: Cassjustcurious For every comment that is left on this particular blog post, she will donate $9 to breast cancer research.

Although my trip home for the funeral was laced with tears and heartache, I got to spend time with both of my sisters. Karmyn, Jennifer and I hadn't been together in two years. And although we'd been together two years ago for Mom and Dad's anniversary party, we didn't have time to "hang out." The Friday before the funeral, we sat and laughed for hours. It was so refreshing that I smile even now, just thinking about it. It seems as though time really can help to heal wounds.

I realized a few things last weekend as I sat in that pew of the church... I realized that we all have a lifetime of funerals to attend. And I realized that I am not scared of death; rather, I am afraid of not being alive.

And I find no comfort in death. No comfort in the sermons given at death. No comfort in the promises of an afterlife.

On a happier note, Curly Mop is an absolute doll. Joey and I are having so much fun with her. This age is definitely my favorite so far. She makes up songs and stories that crack me UP. I also get a kick out of the names she gives her stuffed animals. She has a pink poodle named Blueberry, a brown puppy dog named DeeDee and a dinosaur named Zeppy. (And that is SO cute because the little boy who lives a few doors down is named Zeppelin and she adores him.)

I'll try to keep up on my blogging. I am not exagerrating when I tell you that I've been spending 8 to 12 hours a day in school and on homework ... ugh!!
I love you all.

Mandy's Music Mania #15

2008-09-18T13:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I am going to bring my Music Mania blog back to my favorite genre of music.

At any given moment, you might find me listening to classic rock, heavy metal, OR country. But at the end of the day, I always come back to the girls. The more passion the better.

Oh, Susanna is the stage name of Suzie Ungerleider. Born in the United States, she moved to Canada with her family at a young age and found herself enamored with all kinda of music. Eventually, she found herself composing alt-country-folk ballads. By 1997, she'd recorded a self-titled EP. Before too long, she was featured in Lilith Fair and opening for bands like Kinnie Star.

In 1999, she released her first full-length album, followed by Sleepy Little Sailor in 2001 and Oh, Susanna in 2003.

I chose to share Oh, Susanna's music with you today because I've fallen in love with her sound and her style. This is NOT the kind of music you want to listen to while you clean house or when having a dinner party. Oh, Susanna is a musician that you'll want to wallow in; music you want to digest in the company of a good glass of wine and some candles. Not an everyday sound, but one that is special enough to feature on Mandy's Music Mania.

OH, SUSANNA - GREYHOUND BUS

OH, SUSANNA - SLEEPY LITTLE SAILOR

Until next time...... rock on.

Mandy's Music Mania #14

2008-08-28T09:43:00.000-07:00

Each time I sit down to write my Music Mania posts, I find myself at odds over which brilliant artist I should feature. This week, I ultimately decided on the California based Indie band, Sea Wolf.

Sea Wolf, whose name was inspired by Jack London's 1904 novel, is made up of one permanent member, Alex Church; the rest of the instruments are played by revolving members.

After attending a prestigious NYU film school, Church founded Irving, an indie-rock band. Before too long, he found his conflict in his style and preference of music and decided to work on a solo project. After signing with Dangerbird records, he successfully released both a debut EP and a full-length album.

I stumbled upon Sea Wolf very randomly and immediately dug the tunes. He has a very mellow groove and an incredibly sexy voice. I've noted a Tom Petty-ness about his voice on occasion.

I'm sharing Sea Wolf with you today in hopes that you love him as much as I do. Please enjoy the following songs and until next time...... keep on rockin!

SEA WOLF - MIDDLE DISTANCE RUNNER

SEA WOLF - YOU'RE A WOLF

and a bonus track!

SEA WOLF - WINTER WINDOWS

Kids say the darndest things

2008-08-06T17:55:00.000-07:00

My daughter, who turned four in June, has been saying silly stuff since she learned to talk. As she's gotten older, it's become increasingly comedic. Not only is her personality blossoming, she is also much more observant than ever before. The combination is gut-busting.

The other day, The Mister was drying off in the bathroom after a shower. Curly Mop was walking casually to her bedroom when she stopped. She looked. And she pointed.

"HA!" she yelled sweetly, pointing into the bathroom at her dad, "That's a funny vagina!"

RIP Kevin.

2008-08-05T12:22:00.001-07:00

Here I am. Sitting alone at my computer like I do nearly every night. A warm breeze blowing through the window. The sound of a distant plane tearing through the darkened sky. The tip-tap-tip-tap of my fingers gently gliding along my keyboard. Another beautiful night.... and I am alive.

There's nothing like a death to make one feel alive, am I right? And even though I hadn't been in close contact with Kevin for YEARS, I live with a heavy heart tonight knowing that he is gone. Another tragedy, another loss, another young man - gone.

I was sitting here last night, thinking about my friends in my hometown, the ones I know are mourning; the ones who are living the loss much more than myself.

And I sat quietly, thinking about my time here in Portland; about how many of those heartbreaking phone calls I've received since I've been here. The early morning call where, when you answer, someone says, "I've got bad news." My guts dropped and my throat clenched when Alison told me about Bret. My eyes welled with tears and I was, for once, speechless when Ginger told me about Michael. I was very sad when I heard about Shannon. I cried and called Chris.

Of course death is a part of life. But we are somewhat conditioned to think that death comes later in life - when we've had years and years behind us... and we've had a lifetime of experiences. And yet, I myself have lost a handful of friends and family that should've lived decades beyond what they did. Too young, too soon. It's a sad, sad thing.

And it makes me question my own mortality, as it probably does most people. We all wake up in the morning... eat breakfast, check our email, make a phone call or two, go to work ... go about our daily routines. None of us know when we are going to die. We don't wake up in the morning and think, "Well, today is my last day on this earth, better make the most of it." No, we go about our business thinking we have the rest of our lives ahead of us, not knowing that the rest of our life is TODAY.

It's s scary notion. But it should entice each and every human being to live with no regrets, lest we leave this earth not having said what we felt.

I often wonder what they would've said - those who have passed on - if they'd known it was their last chance.

If I died tonight, this is what I'd want to say:

I cherish my friends and family. What would be the purpose of my life if I hadn't loved and been loved. The relationships I've built go beyond this earth; not a single possesion I own does. I love you all.

And in hoping that I don't meet my maker tonight, I'd like to say:

Feel the warm breeze on your face. Wiggle your toes in the grass. Dance in the rain. Write that letter you've been putting off. Put aside your guilt, ire, and envy and enjoy being alive. And pray for peace.

Mandy's Music Mania #13

2008-07-24T13:12:00.001-07:00

Well, FOLKS!
It's time for another music recommendation from yours truly. I had an honest-to-god tough time trying to decide which artist to feature this week. I'm absolutely in love with music and I listen to so many kinds of music that it's hard to pick just one.

This week, I would like to introduce you to a local band. Portland is full of amazing musicians, and Climber is so exception. And although I know very little about the band itself, I do know that my friends went to high school with the lead singer. Neat, huh.

And I know that I enjoy their music and that I would like to share it with yall.

Climber - Always Right

Climber - Escape

Update-a-roonie.

2008-07-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy that I didn't know my background had gone MIA. And some of you couldn't read the words because of it. Oops! I've changed it so hopefully you can all read it now. I apologize for my absence. I've been incredibly busy over the past few weeks. Somehow, blogging took the back burner to my real life. What a concept!

Last Thursday, I packed up Curly Mop and drove to Grandma and Grandpa's house. It's supposed to take ~4 hours to drive, but I don't like to stop and I don't like driving 65 mph. So it didn't take quite that long to get there. We spent the night there Thursday night and then I left Curly Mop with my Mom for two nights and drove to Seattle with my Dad, who rode STP (Seattle to Portland) on his bike. Him and a team of 9 others rode 205 miles in about 16 hours. I drove the "sag" vehicle, which carried the water, food, first aid kit and extra bike equipment, in case of an accident. At the end of the day, I was absolutely exhausted and I didn't even ride!! I have no idea how any of them were functioning at all. I was SO incredibly proud of the team. They did amazing. I am very happy to have been a part of the whole experience.

(I should add here!! When we were at REI in Seattle, we met Robin Williams. Yes, THE Robin Williams. Dad asked him if he was riding STP and he shook his head, said he was just visiting Seattle. I don't believe him. I think he was riding but didn't want anyone to know. But COOL, eh! We met Robin Williams. I LOVE that guy.)

I figure I drove approximately 30+ hours over the course of 3 1/2 days. So, needless to say, I didn't feel like packing the munchkin into the car and driving home. I decided to stay through the weekend. I was able to see old friends and visit family. It was a good week! Friday morning we spent the day at a "welcome home" BBQ for a friend that had just served 7 1/2 years in prison. (He got a bum rap, for real. The guy got into a physical altercation with his ex-girlfriend who stole money from him. When the fight was over, he took money from her. He got charged with Robbery 1 and because he was in Oregon when it happened, he got charged with Measure 11, which is mandatory minimum sentencing. The whole thing was bullshit.) In any event, he was released Friday morning and we had a big party for him. It was a joyous occasion! There were lots of little kids there for Curly Mop to play with. They had an inflatable swimming pool, a Slip-N-Slide, and more watermelon than one could humanly consume. (As soon as I get it uploaded to my computer, I'll be posting a picture of my masterpiece 7-layer bean dip. It was a beautiful monster.)

Today was my last day of finals for summer quarter. Now I have a break until Fall quarter, which makes me happy. And I am HOPING that next quarter will be my last. I need to finish already - get a job - makes some money - pay off all my debt. Ugh. I will drink a beer tonight to celebrate another quarter under my belt. You should drink one, too, just because beer is yummy and you don't need a reason to enjoy one. weeeeeee!

M@ at Animal Mind thinks I've succumbed to motherhood; that I've lost my flare, my passion, my fire. He couldn't be more wrong. I fully intend on ranting some more about our developmentally disabled president and about how I'm already against the next war. I might even talk a little about global warming. (oh, gasp!!) In the meantime, enjoy some pictures. I'll be posting more often now that I'm not overwhelmed with school work. Loves to you all. (OH, and an all new MUSIC post coming tomorrow! Be sure to check it out.)

IN GRANDMA'S HAT

My baby is FOUR!

2008-06-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

Curly Mop turned four on Sunday.

I can't believe that four years has come and gone. I remember the say she was born like it was yesterday. (That is an utter and total fabrication. I was doped up on all kinds of medication and most of the day is a blur.)

Her birthday party was Saturday. It was 100 degrees outside and our picnic site was also home to a stinky bum (who weaseled his way into a lot of the pictures.) Nevertheless, it was a successful birthday party. It was supposed to be a Super Mario themed party, but no one carries Mario stuff anymore. So, we winged it. I printed up some Mario characters and printed them out. We ordered Pizza, which we assume is Mario's favorite food. And I decorated the cupcakes to look like mushrooms. It was so hot, however, that most of the frosting was melting off by the time we got to eat them.

She got the red scooter she'd been begging for (thanks G'ma and G'pa!) a music box (thanks Auntie Karmyn and family!) a constellation planetarium (thanks Uncle Log!) and lots of other cool stuff.

Overall, it was a successful party. I'm glad we don't have to worry about it for another year. I think next year, we'll rent a pool.

The birthday girl:

She talks incessantly about Mario.

They all LOOK sweet .......

We couldn't believe it when she offered to share her new scooter.

Then Sunday morning, we took Grandma and Grandpa to the Audubon Society and walked the trails in the Wildlife Sanctuary. We saw a wild bunny, salamanders, birds and spiders. It was a little muggy and we fought the mosquitoes, but otherwise it was a nice little hike in the urban forest.

CHEESE!

We had a super yummy lunch with Grandma and Grandpa before they headed home. Curly Mop is so lucky to have grandparents that love her so much and drive the four hours to be a part of her birthday celebration. (Thanks again, Mom and Dad.)

I still can't believe she is four.

Thunder

2008-05-30T09:33:00.001-07:00

I won't steal Karmyn's by posting pictures of her little angel before she does. (And I really want to, because the little mister is absolutely precious.) But I will share with you that he's been successfully introduced to the world and the family.

I went to Karmyn's on Tuesday and stayed with Jammin and Buttercup while she had the baby. Mix her two and my one -- and it's a smashing good time. The kids barely noticed she was gone; they played hard in the backyard and then in Jammin's room when it started raining. At the end of the night, those three munchkins were WIPED out and so was I.

CONGRATS to my sister! And GOOD WORK! He's a living doll. And I can't wait to watch him grow. (Really, I can't wait to see how different he is from his siblings. Jammin and Buttercup are so incredibly opposite, it'll be interesting to see what we've thrown into the mix here.)

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Last weekend, Curly Mop witnessed her first STORM. And she loved it. I guess she is more like me than I thought. We turned off all the lights and waited in the dark bedroom for nature's light show. It streaked across the sky and boomed through the house. At first, it was quite a distance away. But the longer we sat, the closer it got and eventually the thunder was rattling our chests like a freight train passing through the living room. She was truly impressed; in fact, it's the longest she's sat in one place before. She was so excited, we had to call Grandma and tell her all about it. She is getting so big, it blows my mind.

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I will be attending summer school. Sucks because I'd much rather spend my warm, summer days gallivanting around with The Mop, but it was an important decision for me to make because I'm on rounding third base and heading for graduation. Taking a summer off could delay my completion; I can't lie -- I probably wouldn't practice if I took a summer off. I'd lose a speed. And I'd have to work twice as hard to get back to where I am now. So - summer vacation is outta the question. But Mom and Dad promised to throw me a Grad party and have it catered by my favorite Thai restaurant. NOT to mention, I'll finally be able to make some money. (I'm really more excited about the party... ha ha!)

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Marinate on this for a minute.

Do you eat fast food? Feed your kids McDonald's Chicken Nuggets? Indulge in the occasional BK Whopper? Of course, we all do. It's fast, convenient and cheap. But next time you start to pull into the drive-through, think about this:

Did you know that today’s slaughterhouses are so disgusting, one former U.S. Department of Agriculture scientist says that the “final product is no different than if you stuck it in the toilet and ate it”?

27 Years Ago.....

2008-05-20T10:03:00.000-07:00

....My mother had no idea what kind of monster she was bringing into this world. But she did it anyway. And for that, I am grateful.

Yes, that means today is my birthday. The big 2-7.

When Mom came down last weekend, we celebrated my birthday early, which is a good thing because now it's my REAL birthday and The Mister is leaving town overnight on a delivery for work. So there is a good chance I'll have a very quiet, mellow birthday... just myself and Curly Mop. She sang "Happy Birthday" to me when she woke up this morning. It was the most darling thing EVER and wish I'd caught it on tape.

In keeping with the spirit of my birthday.... here's a photo or two of our celebration last weekend. Please note, I am NOT touching myself (although, a few hours AFTER his photo was taken, I sang "I touch myself" by the Divinyls at the Karaoke Bar!) That is The Mister.

This is my friend Log... in my hair.

And this is one of my best friends, Novella.

We really know how to party. :)

Thanks Mom, for the gift of life. (and the gift of freedom last weekend)

Ah, Fudgesicles.

2008-04-27T23:44:00.001-07:00

One day, as it seems, the World decided to take a gigantic, steamy poop right on top of me and my family. The last few months - and I could even go as far as to say the past few years - haven't been easy and have taken their toll on us. I wake up often, maybe every morning, wondering when the foul-smelling, heaping pile of butt fudge was going to lift magically and descend back up into ass log heaven, leaving us with a sunny, do-do free day.

Yet, every morning I awoke to the World dropping the kids off in my pool. And my Mister has ulcerative colitis, so we don't need any help in the dookie department. Between money problems, the Mister hating his job, my school d.r.a.g.g.i.n.g on and on despite all my effort, we had too much #2 on our plate. Then you throw in the occasion sinus infection of bout of the squirts, our plate was overflowing. (Did I mention we had a lot of crap going on?)

Well, I don't know if the hard work and patience is finally beginning to pay off or if the Lincoln Log God is too busy dropping ass goblins on someone else to pay any attention to us. Either way, the feces is beginning to recede and the sunlight is peeking through.

The Mister ditched the old job, which was run by a handful of poopy pants and caca heads, and was immediately hired by a company that makes custom signs and delivers them to local companies. By all appearances, the folks who hired him and the boys he'll be working with do NOT seem like sewer serpents. His first day is tomorrow! And other than the occasional nerve-related defecation, he seems really excited and eager to start.

And as for MY good news -- it's a small, yet celebrate-able achievement (Did I just make that word up?). I've successfully passed my first TWO of twelve tests which will count towards my graduation requirements. (I think I've passed more, but it takes a little while to get results back. I am, after all, just a stinkin' online student.) And although my new teacher is strict and her expectations are high as shit, I'm feeling better about my progress; You mean, there IS a light at the end of this ridiculously long and bowel-movement filled tunnel?!? Apparently so. *insert loud roar of a crowd here*

So, even though I know the World has plenty more she can dump on me, I'll take the ray of sunshine while I can. You better believe that when the Goddess of Dung graces me with her presence next week, you'll hear all about it. But for now, bask with me in the glory of a pinched-loaf free weekend.

My Slogan

2008-04-26T11:19:00.001-07:00

Your Slogan Should Be

Amanda. Champagne for the Brain.

The Slogan Generator

YOU HAVE NO IDEA!

Movie Meme Answers - YOU GUYS SUCK!

2008-04-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

1.) "Because you love her I will forgive you for that. Once! You say that again and we're not brothers." -- LEGENDS OF THE FALL

2.) "I ain't your scout. And we sure ain't no damn militia." -- LAST OF THE MOHICANS

3.) "How dare you judge me? I mean, what are you? You think you're some kind of, like, angel here? No, you're just this penny-stealing... wanna-be criminal... man." -- OFFICE SPACE

4.) "First of all, Papa Smurf didn't create Smurfette. Gargamel did. She was sent in as Gargamel's evil spy with the intention of destroying the Smurf village. But the overwhelming goodness of the Smurf way of life transformed her. And as for the whole gang-bang scenario, it just couldn't happen. Smurfs are asexual. They don't even have... reproductive organs under those little, white pants. It's just so illogical, you know, about being a Smurf. You know, what's the point of living... if you don't have a dick?" -- DONNIE DARKO

5.) "Look, we grow weed. We're not mercenaries." -- LOCK, STOCK & TWO SMOKING BARRELS.

6.) "Apart from seasoning the lobster bisque, he farted on the meringue, sneezed on braised endive, and as for the cream of mushroom soup, well..." -- FIGHT CLUB

7.) "Fuck sympathy! I don't need your fuckin' sympathy, man, I need my fucking johnson!" -- THE BIG LEBOWSKI

8.) "Listen, send me someone who can speak Hungarian. Yeah he's awake, he's talking like a Thai hooker." -- THE USUAL SUSPECTS

9.) "Look at them. They're just asking for it. Maybe the human race deserves to be wiped out." -- 12 MONKEYS

10.) "I'm the most dangerous man in this prison. You know why? 'Cause I control the underwear." -- AMERICAN HISTORY X

Movie Line Meme

2008-04-12T13:42:00.000-07:00

So I haven't posted in a long time. And I decided that instead of talking about whats going on in my life, I would do something fun. I got the idea from my sister when we visited last weekend.

The Rules:
1. Pick 10 of your favorite movies.
2. Go to IMDb and find a quote from each movie.
3. Post them on your blog for everyone to guess.

GOOD LUCK!

1.) "Because you love her I will forgive you for that. Once! You say that again and we're not brothers."

2.) "I ain't your scout. And we sure ain't no damn militia."

3.) "How dare you judge me? I mean, what are you? You think you're some kind of, like, angel here? No, you're just this penny-stealing... wanna-be criminal... man."

4.) "First of all, Papa Smurf didn't create Smurfette. Gargamel did. She was sent in as Gargamel's evil spy with the intention of destroying the Smurf village. But the overwhelming goodness of the Smurf way of life transformed her. And as for the whole gang-bang scenario, it just couldn't happen. Smurfs are asexual. They don't even have... reproductive organs under those little, white pants. It's just so illogical, you know, about being a Smurf. You know, what's the point of living... if you don't have a dick?"

5.) "Look, we grow weed. We're not mercenaries."

6.) "Apart from seasoning the lobster bisque, he farted on the meringue, sneezed on braised endive, and as for the cream of mushroom soup, well..."

7.) "Fuck sympathy! I don't need your fuckin' sympathy, man, I need my fucking johnson!"

8.) "Listen, send me someone who can speak Hungarian. Yeah he's awake, he's talking like a Thai hooker."

9.) "Look at them. They're just asking for it. Maybe the human race deserves to be wiped out."

10.) "I'm the most dangerous man in this prison. You know why? 'Cause I control the underwear."

MIA

2008-02-28T17:58:00.000-08:00

And no, Mia is not the name of some adorable little girl who I will be telling adorable little stories about. MIA is Missing in Action and I'm about to tell you why I haven't been around lately.

As you are well aware, the month of December was a rough month for us. We were kicked out of our home so some a$$hole developer could put up some condos. (the dollar signs are so appropriate, aren't they??) The month of January was an interesting month as we got settled into our new place. Right after new years, I went full throttle, full-speed ahead, and face first into a new quarter of school. I am bound and determined to be done this year. 225 words per minute -- here I come!

Well, February started off really rough. My friend Log and I drove the four hours to our hometown to spend some time with our families. Curly Mop enjoyed grandma and grandpa's house very much and I had a chance to sit with my Great-Great Auntie Fern; I took my stenograph along and began taking record of her life story. (We're hoping to get some solid family history and also some very interesting stories out of the deal.) We headed home that Sunday ONLY to find that while the Mister was at work, we'd been burglarized. Yup, you heard me right. Someone had slit the screen on our bedroom window, pushed open the window (being very careful to not leave fingerprints, I might add) and helped themselves to our things. It's not even worth listing all the goods they got with or the hard-earned cash they made away with; let's just say they took our valuables but not before rifling through my underwear drawer and our daughter's room. Anyone who has been a victim of such a crime understands that the loss of security and the violation of privacy is almost worse then being robbed.

Less than two weeks later, I woke up on a Saturday morning to find the Mister unconscious and not breathing. A few rounds of CPR and an ambulance ride to the hospital later, he was put into intensive care and treated for pneumonia and also complications due to a drug interaction. He spent three days in the hospital and came home very sore and tired.

No sooner had he been released from the hospital when our little Curly Mop came down with a stomach bug. When she recovered from that, the Mister came back down with a sinus infection (something he'd been battling before the pneumonia.) Yesterday, my car died in the middle of the street; and although it started right back up, I am incredibly stressed out about it. I'm just sure that, by our luck, it will break down on me next time I drive it. So, we're on foot. (This isn't such a bad thing right now because the weather has been absolutely gorgeous. But this IS Portland and it does ALWAYS rain here. So the heel-toeing it thing won't work very long.)

SO. As you can see, my life has been obnoxiously busy and I've been too preoccupied to do anything other than keep my family afloat and alive and all that jazz. I apologize for the emotional damage I've caused you by denying you updates. :) But I hope that you understand.

Until next time ..............

Mandy's Music Mania #12

2008-01-31T23:03:00.000-08:00

My last Music Mania post introduced you to Andrew Bird, an interesting fella of many musical talents. This week, I am going to bring a totally new sound to my blog; a sound that is hard to classify, hard to describe.

I happened upon Ghostland Observatory like I do most of my music: by sheer accident. I was intrigued by the 80's rock vibe, so I gave them a fighting chance at finding their way into my music library. Although they have so succeeded in doing so, I must admit that not ALL of their songs made the final cut.

Ghostland is a very high energy kind of band, which is a considerable feat considering there are only two members, Aaron Behrens and Thomas Ross Turner, making all the noise. When asked how they would classify their own tunes, one band member said their sound resembled, "a robot making love to a tree!!" And I suppose that's about right.

I don't know a lot about the band, but I know that their music makes me wanna groove. I have passed on my love for a few select songs to many a friend over the past year and I look forward to passing it on to you. I will ask you folks to turn DOWN the volume on your stereo until you know for sure that you like it. Then, by all means, crank it up. I have a feeling that for some of my faithful readers, aka Mom and possibly Kar, this may not be your cup of tea. This is, however, a music blog and I am en equal opportunity listener.

*Disclaimer - I honestly don't expect many people to enjoy this kind of music... but I figure there's one or two of you out there that will dig it. And if one person out there listens to these songs more than once, then I've done my job. :)

Ghostland Observatory's "Stranger Lover"

Ghostland Observatory's "Shoot 'Em Down"

Take THAT punk!

2008-01-30T18:59:00.000-08:00

After a full day of cleaning, homework and laundry, I decided to treat myself to a game of old-school nintendo. No game, in it's technological dreams, could beat Super Mario Brothers. I popped in Mario 2 -- you know, the one where you throw vegetables... and eggs that have been shot out of some creepy little character's nose -- and sat down on the bed. Ahhhhh, a moment to relax. It wasn't long before my little Curly Mop figured out that I was missing and came searching. She hopped up on my bed and, in an unprecendented fashion, watched quietly as I played. The Mister, who had noticed the house strangely still, came into the bedroom to see what was going on. No sooner had he walked through the door when Curly Mop jumped up on the bed, threw her fist at the screen and yelled, "Take THAT punk!"

We just about died laughing. I don't know where she picked that up, but it was too cute to scold her. Instead, we grabbed the camera and caught her in action. It's too cute not to share. And please, excuse my messy hair and generally grubby appearance. I really had been working my @$$ off that day.

But I'm only ~27

2008-01-28T10:53:00.000-08:00

I am not a "get my hair did" kind of person. I cut my own hair when I think it needs a trim, and when I rarely decide it needs color, I do that too. But last week, I felt the need for a trim and some pampering, so the Mister paid for a professional cut. I went down the street to a little shop and a really nice lady named Tamara gave me some highlights, a wash and a cut.

I was chatting away with Tamara about my future career as a court reporter. I don't think she was honestly interested, but she listened intently as I yammered away. Out of the blue, she stopped me. "Oh honey," she said in a hesitant tone. "Look at this."

What happened next halted every life-sustaining process in my body. She plucked what appeared to be a gray hair from the top of my scalp. My eyes bugged out of my head. "No!" I screamed. "That's impossible! I've never seen a single gray hair on my head." Tamara looked at me with sympathy. "Didn't you say you've got a three-year old?" She asked. "Oh, yes," I said, silently blaming the baby and the Mister for my obvious aging. "Yes, I do."

So there you have it folks. I got my first gray hair. It looked more like a cat's whisker than a gray hair, to be honest. It was short and think and white-ish. But it came out of my head. I know because I felt her pluck it from my almost 27 year-old head. I'm never getting my hair professionally done again. I refuse to pay a stranger to pluck my humiliation when I can pluck it from home for free.

Seven Years.

2008-01-20T21:45:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry I don't write. I haven't felt much like writing. Tonight I have to write, because by sharing -- I feel like I am honoring.

I have written about Jordan before. I have shared with most of you my memories, with some of you my tears. I think endlessly about how he changed my life, how he changed me. Yet it never ceases to amaze me..... how much I miss him. Seven years has come and gone, brought life and love and change into your lives and mine. But my life still seems to halt on the eve of Jordan's death, almost as if a little clock inside me stopped when he took his final breath. And every year, I revisit the little clock and all of the feelings associated with it.

Anything I could say here would be chiched, which is why I refuse to spend another year skirting around everyone's feelings and my own by spouting off candied banter. It's only function would be to replace one's true and necessary feelings with a temporary sense of justice and peace. So forgive me if you came here expecting me to say things like, "Jordan is in a better place, " or "He was too good for this world." Because as true as those things may be, it doesn't really make me feel any better, does it.

What I really want to say, and probably most of you have felt, is -- how unfair is this world when a good man is given death instead of life? Where is the justice in a beautiful, young man being denied the joys of being a husband, a father? How can one live with peace knowing that they live on when someone they love CANT.

Obviously, my mind understands. Everyone dies. No one is safe from the inevitable. You will die, as will I. But my heart doesn't understand why someone like Jordan, someone decent and honest and compassionate and happy, would be taken out of a world that could use more people like him.

I miss him terribly. I think about him constantly. And on this night, like I have for the past 6 years and will for the next 50, I take a moment to open myself up and reflect on the little clock that stopped ticking when I lost my best friend. It's unfair and I will never forgive myself or the world for taking him for granted.

Seven years. It's been a mere moment in life, and an eternity in grief.

Mandy's Music Mania #11

2008-01-03T23:18:00.000-08:00

"Wow!" You say. "She's actually posting a music mania on Thursday like she is supposed to!" Yes, ladies and gentlemen. I still have, lemme see, 40 official minutes to come up with an artist bio so that you can love and adore the musicians that I love and adore. So far, I've gotten mixed reviews. Karmyn liked Brett Dennen. Mari liked Ani Difranco, who brought up bad memories of lesbians who M@ knew in college or something. Mom was into Over the Rhine, so I should probably burn her a copy of an album. Otherwise, many of my recommendations have been hit and miss. Regardless of what you crazy f*@$ers think, I like my damn music and that's all I give a damn about. (insert half-joking smile here)

My last Music Mania post featured Hem, who many of you were iffy about; boring was a word that came up. This week, I want to introduce you to a gentlemen who released two of his albums under Ani Difranco's Righteous Babe Records and has gained a lot of respect in the music industry, especially among Ani's hardcore followers. Andrew Bird is man of many sounds. I can't really begin to describe his music to you. The Chicago-born musician plays a varied range of instruments, all which fittingly find their way into his impressive style. His cool and confident voice is often accompanied by his violin, guitar and/or mandolin.

Mr. Bird, both by himself and in collaboration with other artists, has released nearly ten albums. The Mysterious Production of Eggs is MY favorite albums by the almost 35 year old; but in all fairness, I haven't heard his latest one, Armchair Apocrypha. Please enjoy two of my favorite Andrew Bird songs, along with an instrumental bonus that I couldn't NOT include. And be sure to check back next week for another Music Mania!!

Andrew Bird's "First Song"

Andrew Bird's "Action Adventure"

....and the instrumental bonus I promised you. I love this song!!

Andrew Bird's "Oh, So Insistent"

Obligatory Blog Before I Return to Non-obligatory Blogging

2007-12-28T23:30:00.000-08:00

I will forever be apologizing for my absences. Things just get the better of me sometimes, and blogging always seems the last thing on my mind. Not that I don't love all you guys! Because I do. But real life happens and I know all of you know that. Thanks for continuing to read despite my sporadic posts.

We are all settled in to the new place. I think there may be a box or two of miscellaneous things in the closet, but they are things I can live without. And I swear I am going to lose my mind if I see another stinkin' box!

The place, despite being filled with all of our things, still doesn't feel like home. I know it will come with time but as of now, I am still feeling like a refuge - one that is living a block from my former home. More than anything, this place feels empty because our family is incomplete. I miss my cats. I'm having a hard time sleeping at night without Baby curled up between my legs. It was a bittersweet reunion at Kar's house for Christmas. Baby was happy to see me, purred and curled up on my lap for love. Then I had to say goodbye to her again. I DO, however, take comfort in knowing she's in good hands with my sister - and that I will see her again very soon.

My little Curly Mop has adjusted to the new place quite well. Although, her sleeping schedule got all outta whack during the move and I've had a hard time getting her to bed before 11pm the last few nights. Otherwise, she loves her new room and has enjoyed all of her new toys from Christmas.

With all that being said, I am going to try and get back into the regular swing of blogging. I'll be posting a Music Mania this week, I promise! And I'll make it worth your while for waiting patiently. And I'll make it a point to stop ranting about my dumb real life and get back to the witty and offensive banter that I know most of you love (and my mother probably hates.)

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. I'll be posting again before new years, but until then... HAPPY 2008. May the new year bring you nothing but health and happiness and good fortune. AND MAY IT BRING THE LONG OVERDUE AND MUCH DESERVED PEACE ON EARTH!

The Goods and Bads of Today

2007-12-20T17:59:00.000-08:00

** Mandy's Music Mania will be postponed by one day. Please check back tomorrow**

We are officially moved. Well, I'd say 99.9% moved. There are a few stragglers left in the old place that we will be picking up first thing in the morning, like our shower head and the patio table. Otherwise, the place looks deserted. I will be so sad to give the final goodbye. The place was a palace by no means, but it was our home. And our daughter's home.

The goods of today? The pressure of finding a place and the burden of the move is off my shoulders. THAT is a good thing. I felt as though I was beginning to buckle a little. The perpetually positive, outgoing Amanda was slowly being replaced by an abnormally irritable and cup-half empty Amanda. Having our stuff moved in and mostly unpacked is a huge weight that's been lifted.

What's left is the bads of today. I've been crying MOST of the day. The first real cry of the day was when I said goodbye to Baby, my cat of almost 7 years. She is relocating to Aunty Karmyn's house until further notice. I whispered sweet consolations to her during our 45 minute road trip to Kar's. I told her that I loved her and that she wasn't being punished; that I was letting her go so that she could have a better life for the time being. I am so thankful to my sister for taking her. The very thought of giving her to a stranger, or the thought of her sitting in a shelter made my heart literally ache.

The second tear-shed of the day came after a visit to the vet clinic with my other kitty, The Little Girl. (I know, I know -- we aren't very creative with our pet names.) I took her for a well-check exam and also to obtain a sedative. She will be making the 4 hour drive to Grandma's house tomorrow. Because she doesn't do well in the car, I thought it would be easier for the gentle feline (and the humans!!) if she was resting comfortably. Thank heavens my parents agreed to take her. Again, the thought of handing her over and never seeing her again made my body shake, my heart ache.

The third and so-far final weep of the day came when I got home from THAT emotional saga. My beautiful daughter, who has been a total and complete trooper over the past few days of packing and moving, started to cry. My heart was squashed, crushed, burned, beaten and raked across barbed wire when she told me that she wanted to go home. I know how she feels, too. This place isn't our home.

Eviction Schmeeviction.

2007-12-16T23:54:00.000-08:00

Today we got a 72-hour eviction notice from our "new" landlords. I wasn't a bit surprised, considering we didn't give them a dime of rent for the month of December. The way I feel about it is pretty simple. If you are going to kick me and my family out of our home in the middle of winter (and at Christmas!) then you don't deserve my money. I will not support that company in any way, shape or form and that includes monetarily. Secondly, THEY want US to move out. So, we are going to need every last nickel we have to pay first, last and deposit at the new place. So, devil company doesn't get rent. Too bad, so sad. Right?

The Mister and I pointed and laughed out loud at the 72-hour eviction notice. Mostly because the 72 hour period ends the same day we move into our new place. But also because -- welp -- they aren't gettin' jack shit out of us even if we DIDN'T have another place to go. I boycott.

So, the big news is WE FOUND ANOTHER PLACE TO LIVE! And it's only a block or so from our current location; we are excited about that. Neither one of us wanted to leave this area. We love it here. Bad news is -- the new place doesn't take cats. And I have my two beautiful, snuggly kitties that I DO NOT want to get rid of. How awesome is it that Karmyn stepped up and agreed to take Baby, who I've had for almost 7 years mind you. I'm working on Mom, trying to get her to take the other one. She's a low maintenance cat. I thought that would work well for my folks.

So, I'm packed and ready to go. Not looking forward to the move itself, but will be happy when all is said and done and over with. Moving is the worst. I'd put it right up there with raging yeast infections and other people's snotty-ass-nosed little brats. My new place has double paned windows. Isn't it ridiculously sad that THAT is what has me fluttering?

In the meantime, I am on X-mas vacation from school. Good stuff. Needed the break. Fighting an ear infection. How ultra-super-mega awesome is THAT? In my desperation, I pulled a M@ and scoured the depths of the black market to score some drugs. That damned penicillin!! It blows my mind that 40+ million people in this country don't have insurance. What would I have done if the Mister hadn't had leftover antibiotics from an infected tooth? I woulda suffered through the pain until it became a full-blown systemic infection; my mom would've gotten an early morning call about my being admitted to the hospital; and I would've spent months filling out paperwork to prove to the hospital that I can't afford the 8 billion dollar ER bill. Lucky me, I suppose, for the Mister's bad tooth.

Got a few presents under the tree. It's a sad day when a family gets kicked out of their house and are forced to spend SAVED Christmas money for their 3 y/o on a new place. But you know, she's spoiled year round, so I don't feel TOO bad that she won't be getting a trillion new toys. Less for me to clean up at the end of the day right? Happy holidays to all of you. I sincerely hope that my rants and vents of the day haven't soured YOUR holiday cheer or crushed your Christmas spirit. I wish you all most pleasant of evenings and a happy tomorrow.
Argh.

Mandy's Music Mania #10

2007-12-13T19:02:00.000-08:00

Last week, I got good reviews from my music recommendation. Many of you liked Brett and that makes me happy.

This week I would like to introduce you to an indie-folk rock group named Hem that I've been listening to for several years now. Another fan put it quite well when they called their music "alt-country folk pop orchestrated lullabies for adults." I think it is an appropriate description of the band's sound.

Hem is made up four permanent members and ~5 more that come around to help tour. Their unique sound is made up of a variety of instruments, including the mandolin, steel guitar and a glockenspiel. Sally Ellyson, on lead vocals, has a surprisingly powerful voice in spite of it's sweetness.

If you are looking for music to get pumped up before the big game, Hem isn't the band for you. If you are looking for tunes to get your booty shaking, Hem isn't the band you are looking for. If you are looking, however for a sweet, soothing sound, Hem just might be the band for you. I hope you enjoy the music I've provided for you. And I encourage you to check back next week for another Mandy's Music Mania.

Hem "Leave Me Here"

Hem "Half Acre"

Mandy's Music Mania # 9

2007-12-07T10:22:00.000-08:00

I apologize to my *ahem* loyal readers, however few you are, for missing TWO full weeks of music tributes. And for the lack of blogging all together. This past week has kept me very busy, very stressed and as a result of those things, very ill. The whole fam damily has sore throats, coughs, aches... the whole shebang.

Of all my blogging, my music posts tend to be my favorite. Music has always been a very important part of my life, so sharing it with people comes very naturally to me. I want those around me to experience the same feelings as I do when I hear a tune that makes me want to bob. Or when an artist says something that I feel, only they say it better and to groovy music.

A few weeks ago (again, sorry for the delay!!) I introduced you to Over The Rhine. This week, I am going to give you a taste of the one and only Mr. Brett Dennen. I was first exposed to Brett Dennen when he opened for Xavier Rudd at the Crystal Ballroom. I was instantly hooked. He has an incredible uniqueness about him, something that gripped me from the first twang of his guitar.

One of the first things I noticed about Brett was that he has a sort of sexual ambiguity about him. And I mean that with the utmost respect. Something about his soft, high-pitched voice drew me to him. Then when I started digesting his lyrics, I began to understand how deep of an individual he is. His songs are powerful and moving, often singing about love, death, faith, and healing. He brings a sense of calmness to my life and I find myself listening to him regardless of my mood.

Born in 1979, the California based Dennen has been compared to some of the greatest musicians of our time, including Bob Dylan and Tracy Chapman. He was featured in Rolling Stones magazine as one of the top 10 up&coming artists to watch.

I've seen Brett live three or four times now. I've been listening to him for several years. And I've turned almost all of my friends onto his music. In recent months, Brett has become more and more popular. I about shat my pants when I heard him on the radio for the first time; I even got a few phone calls from friends who'd heard him on television. You may have heard him, you may not have. Either way, I hope you enjoy what you hear here today. And maybe Brett will find his way into your life, too.

Brett Dennen - Nothing Lasts Forever

Brett Dennen - Darlin' Do Not Fear

My friend Rashelle is calling me The Moral Crusader.

2007-11-30T21:49:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to touch base with you guys. I've been missing for a week now, but it's not by choice. Without getting into TOO terribly much detail, I'll clue you in on what has my full and undivided attention right now.

I was AFK last week due to holiday, firstly. Then, about two weeks ago, our landlord (who we love and adore and who loves and adores us) sold our rental property. Yesterday morning we opened our mail to find a 30 day no-cause termination letter from the NEW landlord. He is booting every tenant from their home and putting up condos.

Needless to say, this new dude is pretty heartless. What kind of person kicks ten families out of their homes in the month of December. TO BUILD A CONDO at that.
Under normal circumstances, what this company is doing would be legal. But there is new legislation in Oregon that protects tenants rights regarding condominium conversions. When a developer buys property for the sole purpose of condo conversion, he is required to give 120-day notice, pay moving expenses for low-income families, and give current residents first option to buy. (Problem is, there is a possibility that this law doesn't become effective until January 1st. And our move-out date, of course, is New Years Eve. Still researching.)

This dude hasn't done any of those things. In fact, he hasn't had the nerve to step foot on this lot. We've never even seen the guy; the Mister talked with him briefly when we got our notice. His response, "I'm sorry, man. This isn't personal. It's business."

Not only will I spend the next month searching for a new place for us to call home; I will spend the next month looking for ways to stick-it-to-this-guy. If he is going to sit behind a desk somewhere and try to force my family from their home, the coward is going down with me. If he is going to be compassionless (at Christmas, no less!) then I am going to be ruthless. I've spent the last two days researching my rights as a tenant. I've been in contact with housing authorities. I've contacted private attorneys who specialize in landlord/tenant disputes. I called Mayor Tom Potter's office. (I also drove around for hours upon hours looking at houses and filling out rental applications.....ugh)

As of Monday morning, I am expecting to hear back from a highly regarded Tenant Rights Attorney in Portland. I am also expecting phone calls from two separate local news stations. (There's no better story than the ones that tug on people's heart strings during the holidays, right?!) Like I said, if I am going to get booted out at Christmas, I'm taking this company's reputation with me. Because that's what is wrong with the world these days. The only thing more important than humanity is the dollar.

Wall jumping

2007-11-20T12:29:00.000-08:00

These dudes could totally get away from the Fuzz.

These guys too.

AND THEN THERE IS THIS GUY!!!

Conversations in the shower.

2007-11-17T11:55:00.000-08:00

First, a great-big-awesome-fantastical horrah to my sister. Apparently, I was her 5000th commenter. It should be more exciting for her than for me, because after the hype around me winning some neat-o prize has worn off, she will still have more readers than me. So congrats to Karmyn for being someone that people are interested in. To my 1.2 readers, I'll be getting some cool thing for being a milestone commentor. Coolio, huh.

In the past few months, I've introduced Curly Mop to the idea of showering. The girl loves her bath. But in attempt to save time, I've been stripping her down and just putting her in the shower with me.

The other day, we threw our clothes into a heap on the floor and slipped into the steamy shower. I washed her hair, soaped her up, and then gave her some toys to play with so I could get myself scrubbed up. No sooner had I lathered my hair into a plethora of bubbles when I heard a shriek escape from the three year old's lips.

"Mama! Mama! Mama!"

"What? What's the matter?

"Mama! Mama! Poo poo! There's poo poo!"

I frantically searched the tub for any sign of a renegade turd. I saw shampoo. Some bath toys. A collection of loose hair in the drain. But there was no poop in the shower. I breathed a sigh of relief. But Curly Mop was spazzing out, nearly cracking her head in her attempt to escape.

"Whoa, honey. Whoa. Calm down. Mommy looked. There is NO poop in the shower. Everything is okay. It's ok. Calm down."

She stopped in her tracks, turned around, and pointed directly at my.... um, how shall I say.... ahem... at my groin region. "Look Mama. You got poo poo." I looked down and laughed silently to myself.

"No honey. *giggle giggle snicker* That isn't poo poo. That's just hair."

She looked up at me with a quizzical disbelief.

"Oh... GROSS!"

A trip to the tooth doctor.

2007-11-16T00:40:00.000-08:00

We took Curly Mop to the dentist for her check up and cleaning. We started out with the tooth-brushing thing being a negative experience. But as she's gotten older, we've moved past the kicking and screaming and moved onto her being EXCITED about it. She has a rotating Dora toothebrush that she thinks is totally awesome. Nonetheless, I figured we'd have one hellova time getting her cooperate with a dental hygenist for a cleaning. I was amazed at how well she did. She laid down in the little chair, put her head back, opened her mouth and let the woman count her teeth, then pick at them and then clean them. She was awesome up until the end, when she began losing her patience. I was genuinely impressed with how she handled herself. Maybe going to the dentist will be a different experience for my daughter than it was for me. Maybe she'll enjoy it! (wishful thinking, I know.)

No cavities! Her mouth looks healthy! Dentist is happy with what he sees. We are happy with the results. And look how freakin cute she was. It's not the best quality picture; it was taken by my cell phone.

Speaking of my cell phone, here are some other pictures it took.

I'm so silly.

She was trying to sneak up on me!

Whoa! That's my eye!

She found my razor and cut her lip. :(

With the hue, I could almost pass for innocent.....

She likes her daddy's hat.

Isn't it crazy that we have MOBILE phones that TAKE PICTURES?
Marinate on that.

Mandy's Music Mania #8

2007-11-15T12:18:00.000-08:00

Last week I exposed you to Sage Francis, the lyricist with a unique hip hop style. I've decided to switch gears yet again, and introduce you to Over The Rhine, a musical duo who happen to call each other man and wife. Linford Detweiler and Karin Bergquist are the brains and talent behind the Ohio based band and have found themselves a permanent spot on my MP3 player.

Bergquist's voice is an interesting one, to put it mildly. it oozes passion with a twist of Midwestern soul and is accompanied by horns, strings and woodwinds. Their sound is penetrating and lasting and I often find myself singing the songs long after they are done playing.

The soft, sweet sound of Over The Rhine is perfect for a girl like me. If you are looking for upbeat and encouraging music, this may not be the band for you. Their sound is distinctively delicate and modest, making it the perfect CD if you've had a bad day, or you've lost a friend.

The band, which was established in 1990, just released a new album, "The Trumpet Child" which I have yet to delve into wholeheartedly. But a long list of singles and solo recordings have captured my heart and kept me singing along. In my musical opinion, y'all should keep your eye out for Over The Rhine, as I see them hurling into the mainstream music scene in a whirlwind fashion. They have the talent and the drive; it's only a matter of time.

Please take a moment to enjoy the sounds of one of my favorite bands. Please give me your feedback. (I'll take music recommendations or requests too!!)

Over the Rhine: Latter Days

Over the Rhine: Spark

Please check back next week for another Mandy's Music Mania!

Today

2007-11-12T09:43:00.000-08:00

We could use your thoughts, your prayers, your positive energy...

... to help us with strength, hope and health.

My feet.

2007-11-10T16:04:00.000-08:00

Neat, huh.

Mandy's Music Mania #7

2007-11-08T09:20:00.000-08:00

The past few weeks, I've shared with you some great music from such artists including Xavier Rudd, Ani Difranco and Sarah Harmer. This week I am switching paces a little bit, taking my music recommendation from my easy listening and generally "girly" music to my other auditory passion: beats.

I should preface by saying... when I refer to hip hip, I am not talking about the atrocities one would associate with MTV or mainstream radio. The musicians that grace my home stereo system are artists, linguists who make a mean beat. No "hoes" this or "bling" that. Just good ol' fashioned head-bobbin, feet-tappin beats that go hand in hand with well-written and thought-provoking lyrics.

The hip hop train has derailed in recent years. The movement began with a message -- rappers motivating each other with messages of anti-violence and unity -- and has evolved into a frenzy of drugs, guns and hate. The artists I will feature on my blog will not embody the things I hate about hip hop. That isn't to say there won't be a cuss word here or there, because there will be. That isn't to say there won't be reference to illegal activities, like drugs or graffiti, because there probably will be. But as you begin to digest the music I am about to share, you will understand the difference between using those things for emphasis or using them to spread hate.

My pick of the week is Sage Francis, my all-time favorite underground hip hop artist.

Sage Francis was born Paul Francis in 1976 in Miami, Florida. He is now based out of Providence, Rhode Island where he studied journalism and communication at the University of Rhode Island. Sage then went on to establish his own label, Strange Famous Records. He has since released 4 main albums, 6 mix albums and countless singles and EPs, each of which is filled to the brim with lyrical imagery, intricate sequences and mind-bending metaphors.

If you like what you hear, I encourage you to look him up and find out more about him. He is an interesting gentlemen. For example, Sage, who is an active member of Peta, was nominated as the World's Sexiest Vegetarian. True! And he completely abstains from drugs and alcohol. In an interview, Francis said he doesn't talk about why he chooses the lifestyle he does because one should not "define yourself by what you don't do."

Please enjoy a little Sage Francis today. Digest his lyrics. Bob your head to the beat. Learn a new appreciation for a sound that you don't usually hear. I hope you can appreciate the greatness of the man. :) (Please note, the pickle players may take a moment to load. Be patient!)

"Smoke & Mirrors"

"Broken Wings"

....and a bonus! Some of you will appreciate this more than others. Very interesting take on commercialism, trends, and corporate logos.....

"Narcissist"

My photoshop. Take that Pioneer Woman.

2007-11-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

THIS IS ME.

This is me after a visit to Michael Jackson's plastic surgeon.

This is me after I killed Santa and inherited his job.

This is me after the alien abduction.

Ah, thank goodness for photoshop.

I couldn't say it better myself

2007-11-05T07:54:00.000-08:00

I found relevence in these today.
Felt the need to share.

"Human diversity makes tolerance more than a virtue; it makes it a requirement for survival." -Rene Dubos

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace" - Jimi Hendrix

"They who would give up an essential liberty for temporary security, deserve neither liberty or security." -Benjamin Franklin

"We have committed the Golden Rule to memory; let us now commit it to life." -Edwin Markham

"Our major obligation is not to mistake slogans for solutions." -Edward R. Murrow

"During times of war, hatred becomes quite respectable, even though it has to masquerade often under the guise of patriotism." -Howard Thurman

"History is the only laboratory we have in which to test the consequences of thought." -Etienne Gilson

"When will our consciences grow so tender that we will act to prevent human misery rather than avenge it?" -Eleanor Roosevelt

"You do not lead by hitting people over the head - that's assault, not leadership." -Dwight D. Eisenhower

"Justice without force is powerless; force without justice is tyrannical." -Blaise Pascal

"Our true wealth is the good we do in this world. None of us has faith unless we desire for our neighbors what we desire for ourselves." -Mohammed

"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." -Romans 12:21

"Courage without conscience is a wild beast." -Robert G. Ingersoll

"As long as people believe in absurdities, they will continue to commit atrocities." -Voltaire

Music Mania #6

2007-11-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

Last week I featured my favorite female artist of all time, Ani Difranco. I hope you enjoyed her music clips.

This week, I would like to introduce you to Jessie Baylin, an up and coming singer/songwriter who, in my opinion, is destined to become a music legend. Jessie was born in Gillette, New Jersey but currently operates out of Los Angeles, California, where she lives with and is engaged to the drummer from the rock band Kings of Leon.

Although Jessie is a young woman, born in 1984, her sound has been compared to some of the greatest musical influences of all time, including Ella Fitzgerald. She infuses her big band sound with jazz and pop, making her music diverse and interesting.

Jessie boosted her career as of late after she toured with Delores O'Riordan, the former lead singer of the Irish rock band, The Cranberries. Her music has also been featured on popular television programs recently, making her stardom even more inevitable.

Jessie is currently one of my favorite female artists and I look forward to what she has yet to offer to the music community. I hope you enjoy her sound as well.

"Higher Altitudes"

"Contradicting Words"

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T22:31:00.000-07:00

She told me she wanted to be icky cat food for halloween..............

But I didn't think I could pull THAT one off....................

So she decided she would be a pirate..............

We took her to the store to find an eye patch and a sword,
but she saw the this and it was ALL over....
she wouldn't leave the store without it.

Introducing,
My little Curly Mop Ladybug.

She always makes daddy smile,
but he couldn't resist her in
the ladybug get-up.

Mandy's Music Mania #5

2007-10-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the delay. Busy week!

Last week I introduced you to Fink. This week, I am breaking out my favorite artist of all time. For most of you, you already know who I am talking about. I could only be referring to the one, the only Ms. Difranco. I think she is one of the most dynamic and talented musicians of our time.

I began listening to Ani Difranco about six years ago. I had heard about the 5 foot folk singer, but hadn't been introduced to her yet. I took it upon myself to download a song or two, just to see if she fit my style of music. I downloaded "Both Hands" and was immediately hooked. Today, I own every album she's ever made and know the lyrics to almost every song. After 15+ years of recording, that is a lot of music!!

Ani plays the guitar like a maniac. She rocks that thing like it's an extension of her body. Then, she accompanies the instrument with powerful lyrics and a voice to match. She sings about life, love, social issues, sexuality and politics and incorporates those things into a variety of styles, including folks, rock, punk and spoken word. She's got an opinion and isn't afraid to belt it out for the world to hear.

Not only is Ani an amazing singer and songwriter but she founded her own label, Righteous Babe Records, which is now home to a plethora of upcoming artists. (some of which will surely be showcased in my Music Mania tribute.) Not only is she active in political and social movements, she is an advocate for the protection and restoration of historic buildings in her hometown of Boston. Ani and her team have saved countless buildings, churches and neighborhoods of historic importance from being destroyed. Ani's newest job is the most important of all, though. January 20th of this year, Ani welcomed her first daughter, Petah Lucia.

Ani Difranco is my artist pick of the week, or more appropriately my artist of the year. And I want you to understand how difficult it has been for me to narrow my song picks down!! Out of hundreds of songs that I LOVE, it is nearly impossible to narrow it down to two to share. Please enjoy the following songs, as I hand-picked them with care. May you love and appreciate Ms. D as much as I do.

"Back Around"

"Educated Guess"

Join me next Thursday for another round of Music Mania! Who knows who'll I'll pick! It's THAT manic! muah ha ha ha

Some of my favorite pictures

2007-10-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

I hated being pregnant

He was such a proud new daddy

The bi-lateral kidney stones, the hospitalizations, the pain and 30 lbs. All worth it for this very moment.

And this one.

And this one..

And this one...

And this one....

And this one......

And this one........

And this one...

And this one......

(she adores her daddy!!)

And, of course, this one....

I wouldn't take back a single moment.

Taste Buds

2007-10-23T18:36:00.000-07:00

I am like my mother in a lot of ways: We both like hummingbirds. We both take pictures of barns. Both of us appreciate a good chick flick. I have my mother's cheek bones and her dislike for violence.

But my taste buds are a 'nother story altogether. I definitely take after my father in the food preference department. That isn't to say that my mother doesn't like the same things we do, because she normally does. Just not to the same degree.

Between the two of us, we could finish off an industrial sized jar of green olives. Sauerkraut and bratwurst? Bring. It. On. Salt and vinegar chips don't stand a chance. In case you haven't noticed a trend here, anything salty goes right in my muncher.

Well, there's another hand in the cookie jar now. (Or in this case, another hand on the salt shaker.) My daughter would've eaten the whole jar of green olives today if I'd let her. She totally mows on pickles. And pretzels. And noodles. And salt and vinegar chips. I don't understand why she doesn't like cheese, but I am waiting that one out. Any daughter of mine will love cheese. Mark my words.

Watch out, Grandpa. You're going to have to share your green olive stew with one more.......

The Words of a Dead Man

2007-10-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

When I first moved to Portland 7 years ago, I got a job at the Sheraton Four Points, which was a very beautiful, very popular hotel in the heart of downtown. A good number of the rooms overlooked the Willamette river, as did the restaurant and bar. We welcomed a lot of tourists and businessmen but a lot of our business came from tour groups, namely Cruis# W#st.

Cruis# W#st was largely made up of older, retired folks who were looking to spend their final years enjoying themselves. Portland was one of many destination stops. One cruise focused on the gorgeous Columbia Gorge. Sometimes, we were an overnight stop for adventure seekers on their way to Alaska. Other times, the old men and women were giddy about the wine tasting in the California wine country. Regardless of their destination, every cruise stopped at our hotel for at least one night.

I loved having Cruis# W#st at the hotel. Although we got the occasional high-maintenance complainer who's pillow was too hard or who's room was too cold, most of the folks were just excited about their trip and ready to experience Portland in it's entirety. They were eager to learn about Portland's history, were ready to try our famous restaurants like Jake's Famous Crawfish, and were interested (and a little scared) to ride the MAX.

One the night in question, Cruis# W#st was having a tour dinner in our Riverside Restaurant and the food and beverage department were understaffed. I slipped away from the front desk, where I acted as head concierge, to assist in the kitchen. I had spent about 15 minutes bringing butter to tables, restocking silverware and refreshing water when a gentleman I'd recognized from check-in signaled for me. I walked over and smiled. "Evening, Sir. What can I get for you tonight?" He looked up at me and with a sense of urgency stated, "I don't feel very well."

Me: "Well, Sir. Would you like to lay down? I can get someone to help you up to your room."

Sweet Old Man: "I don't think so. I think I need to go to the hospital. I think I need an ambulance."

Me: "Absolutely. I will call one right away!"

I returned to the kitchen and grabbed the phone. Before my fingers could dial a single digit, the tour director was at my side. "What is going on?!" I explained to her that Mr. Adkins was ill and had requested an ambulance. She looked slightly confused and asked me to hold off on the 911 call. We returned to the gentleman's table, where his wife was in near hysterics. "Sir," the tour director addressed him, "Are you sure you really need an ambulance?" The man hesitated, flushed and nervous. "I can certainly arrange for our driver to take you to the hospital. I just wonder if calling 911 is really necessary...." The man agreeed to hitch a ride on the tour bus.

The man walked away with his wife firmly at his side, leaving me to pour coffee, wait tables and wonder if the tour director was more worried about the company's reputation than the life of the little ol' man.

I came to work the next day like it was any ordinary day. My co-worker Carl came to me after I'd swiped my time card and changed into my uniform, "Amanda. I've got bad news." My heart sank. I already knew. "My Adkins had a massive heart attack in the waiting room at the hospital. He's dead."

No sooner had the words escaped his lips when the elevator sounded. DING The doors began to open and after what seemed like an eternity, Mrs. Adkins emerged. Her eyes met mine. And with a smile she whispered, "Amanda." With every ounce of energy, I tried to maintain composure. But I just couldn't. I burst into tears, sobbing to the sweet old woman, "I'm so sorry, Mrs. Adkins!! SOB I should've called 911! Your husband knew something was wrong! SOB I feel so horrible!! SOB"

The woman reached for me, resting her wrinkled and wise hands on mine. "Don't cry, Amanda. My husband was an old man. He lived a long, wonderful life. It was just his time." Her smile was comforting and inspiring. This woman's husband just died, how could she possibly be so composed and calm? Then Mrs. Adkins said something to me that I'll never forget. "I'm just glad he had the pleasure of meeting you." And with that, she turned and walked away.

A few weeks later, I was called into my manager's office. Geoff offered me a seat and turned to gaze out of the window. "Do you remember a few weeks ago, Amanda, the unfortuante and untimely death of a Cruis# W#st guest?" How could I forget?!! I was personally responsible for the man's demise. Had he been taken to the hopsital via ambulance, he'd been seen right away. He wouldn't have died in the waiting room. "Yes, Sir. I remember." He handed me a customer comment card. "Read this." I opened up the paper and began reading the scratchy, shaking handwriting.

"Amanda was such a delight at check-in. She was very helpful and enthusiatic about her job. She is an asset to your company and I am glad to have had the pleasure of meeting her."

The words of a dead man.

Mandy's Music Mania #4

2007-10-18T10:37:00.000-07:00

Last week I introduced you to Sara Bareilles, the piano-playing, lounge-style-singing songwriter who has brought us hits like "Love Song" and "Fairytale."

My artist pick of the week comes from Brighton, England. Fin Greenall, better known to the music world as Fink, works as a solo artist most of the time, but is sometimes accompanied by bass and drums by Guy Whittaker and Tim Thornton, respectively.

In addition to co-founding Folklaw Records with two fellow musicians, Fink is also an accomplished producer and DJ. And Greenal has been hard at work, releasing three albums in less than three years, including "This is the Thing" and "Biscuits for Breakfast." His music is raw and unique, with a voice that compliments his style. I would like to share his music with you now, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

"This is the Thing"

"All Cried Out"

My dear little MacGarnagle.

2007-10-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

My friend Lacey had just moved to the Oregon coast and into a little house overlooking the ocean. They had a breaktaking view, just on the edge of the bluff. She called me one afternoon to tell me that along with the house and the salty air, her roommate and her had become foster parents to six or seven kittens. Lacey didn't own a cat but apparently a pregnant one came with the house.

Lacey had a young daughter to care for and wasn't ready for the responsibility of seven cats, so The Mister and I offered to take a kitten when it was ready to leave it's mother. We also had several other families lined for the other miniture felines.

We already owned Baby, who was rescued from a party from a concerned friend. According to the fella, Baby was being kicked around inside a pet carrier. Because Baby was mostly black with very little white, we picked out the white kitten with blacn paws to bring home. We figured they would be our yin and yang.

Our friend and neighbor, Sean, had promised to take the white cat's sister, so Lacey brought the two 8 week-old kittens to our house. After a lengthy discussion, The Mister and I named the new edition MacGarnagle. (We are both super fans of The Simpsons and the name came from one of our favorite episodes.) MacGarnagle's sister, a very shy little black and white thing, was scheduled to go to Sean's the next day. In a surprising twist, Sean backed out and decided that he didn't want the kitten after all. We decided that three cats was too many for us and we would find her another home. Because we didn't expect to keep her, she never got a name. We simply referred to her as "The Little Girl."

We never found The Little Girl another home. She just became a part of the family. Baby, MacGarnagle and Little Girl shared the extra bedroom with Hashbrown and The Old Man, our pet chipmunks. They were inside cats because we lived in an area of heavy traffic, including the train that sped directly past our front door.

When we moved into this neighborhood, we decided the cats could go outdoors. It, too, is a busy area as far as traffic is concerned, but there are also plenty of trees for climbing and yards to explore. They also found right away that the Portland Nursery was a good place for finding mice. The cats seemed weary of the street, so we weren't too concerned for their safety.

When the cats weren't outside chasing bugs and climbing fences, they were inside basking in the window sill. Both Baby and The Little Girl ran when Curly Mop was around. At the time, she was crawling and pulling herself up on furniture. When she pet them, she pulled their hair and whapped them with her pudgy little hands. MacGarnagle, aka Mac G, on the other hand -- he came running when he saw her. He laid with her on the ground when I changed her diaper. He snuggled with her during her naps. He even purred when she pulled his hair. It became very apparent: MacGarnagle was Curly Mop's cat.....

It was a weekday afternoon, late in the day. The neighborhood kids were just getting out of school. Curly Mop was taking a nap upstairs, I was shampooing the downstairs carpet and The Mister was bumming around the house. Because I had the cleaner running, he stepped outside to make a phone call. When he walked in the door, I immediately turned it off. His eyes were red, there were tears rolling down his face, the phone limp in his hand. I thought he'd gotten bad news of an ailing grandfather, so I ran to him. "What's the matter?" I probed. "Its. Its. *sniff* It's MacGarnagle. He's dead."

After my initial string of tears, him and I walked outside so that I could see for myself. My little man was across the street, under a street sign, laying peacefully on the sidewalk. With the exception of a small trickle of blood from his nose, he was clean and full intact. He looked like he was sleeping.

Mac G had been hit by a car. The injuries were obviously internal and we could only hope he hadn't suffered. The Little Girl sniffed at his limp body. Baby, who had never liked her adopted brother, sat next to his body for a long time. We weeped, sobbed, hugged and mourned over our little pet. He was our friend, our family, our daughter's favorite pet. It was one of the worst days of my life.

The next morning, I was surprised to see the little girl waiting at the back door. This wasn't like her. I opened the door and she rushed inside. Again, not typical behavior from the normally elusive and shy feline. Then I witnessed something that, three years later, still brings a smile to my face. The Little Girl ran right over to Curly Mop, who was laying patiently on the floor for a diaper change, and rubbed against her face. Curly Mop giggled and reached out for her. The Little Girl rubbed on her, purred at her, and gave her a thorough lovin'. I cried. I fully broke down in tears and bawled like a child. The Little Girl knew that MacGarnagle couldn't fullfil his morning obligations so she took over and did it for him. It only happened the one time. But the one time was enough.

We miss Mac G dearly. It's painful to have his sister, but comforting to have his sister. She is a daily reminder of the cat we loved and lost, but I am so thankful now that Sean didn't take her. We've considered naming her, but nothing fits. She's just The Little Girl. RIP my dear little MacGarnagle. I miss you.

Baby

The Little Girl w/ Hashbrown

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST....Mr. MacGarnagle

Mandy's Music Mania #3

2007-10-10T22:21:00.001-07:00

Last week I featured my favorite Australian artist, Xavier Rudd, and I let you sample his unique sound.

Now, I would like to introduce you to Sara Bareilles. I have been listening to Sara for some time now, but recently I've noticed her becoming more and more popular. It doesn't surprise me, though, because the California born singer/songwriter is extremely talented.

Sara's 2004 release of Careful Confessions griped me from the moment her voice graced my ears. She compliments her voice with a graceful piano and passionate lyrics. Many of her songs touch me on a very personal level.

Sara just released a new album, Little Voice, in July of this year. She is schduled as the opening act for Maroon 5's tour this year, which will no doubt skyrocket her to stardom. Sara is already a star in my book, which is why she lands herself in my music tribute this week and as a permanent artist on my MP3 player.

Sara Bareilles "City"

Sara Bareilles "Love Song"

Come back next week for another super awesome fanstastical music sensation!

My Hood

2007-10-07T17:18:00.001-07:00

Pam, who also happens to be my mother, hosted Fun Monday this week and asked to see an autumn view of my neighborhood.

I debated on which part of my beautiful neighborhood to show. I could share with you the beauty of Laurelhurst park: a 16 acre, turn-of-the-century park with tennis courts, horseshoe pits, wading pool, off-leash dog areas and an extravagent pond... all just a short walk from my front door.

I could show you the beautiful Mount Tabor, a 196 acre extinct volcano, which rises majestically into the sky just a few blocks from my house. The "forest" features picnic areas, a large playground, a performing arts stage and hundreds of hiking and riding trails, for which it has become quite famous for.

I could give you a tour of the Portland Nursery, which sits directly across the street from my house and is home to thousands of plants, trees, flowers and water features.

But then it hit me. I should share some of the beauitful and historic houses that surround our place. We live squarely between three major Portland districts: Mount Tabor, Laurelhurst and Belmont. We are only blocks from Hawthorne district, too. The area of town we live is rich in culture and history, so many of the homes are victorian or bungalows. Many of the homes have been restored to bring back the original charm of the neighborhood. A short walk in any direction will yeild some of the most beautiful homes you've ever seen.

This house sits on a hill at the base of Mount tabor park.

This house sits directly behind the elementary school.

I couldn't capture it with my camera, but this house has a very unique shape.

This house has in interesting paint job.

I had to take this picture from a moving car.... so it is blurry and I apologize for that. BUT, it's for sale if anyone is interested!!

Well now. I couldn't really tell you all of those really awesome things about my neighborhood and leave out the parks and the nursery, could I. That would be so mean. So, to alleviate your anxiety.....

Laurelhurst park's pond

The view from Mount Tabor

and last but not least.... The Portland Nursery

Mandy's Music Mania #2

2007-10-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

Last week I featured Sarah Harmer, a folk singing Canadian with a voice to match her fiery red hair. This week, I am going to feature my favorite male musician.

I found Xavier Rudd by chance and I thank my lucky stars I did. I have since seen him twice in concert and turned nearly all of my friends onto his unique and addictive style. Xavier was born in Canada but currently wails from Australia, where he draws most of his inspiriation for his music. He focuses on social issues that are important to him, singing about everything from nature to the oppression of the natives. How he does it is what sets him apart from the pack.

Aside from having an amazingly unique voice, Xavier rocks out on his digereedoo, which incidently he learned how to use by practicing on a vacuum hose when he was a child. His talent isn't confined to his digereedoo, though. Xavier plays 14 different instruments, including acoustic, slide and elecrtic guitars, the banjo, harmonica and the stomp box. He is the ultimate one-man band.

Xavier's energy and passion has landed him a very permenant place on my MP3 player and today I am going to share that passion with you.

Xavier Rudd: Let me Be

Xavier Rudd: Journey Song

....and I am going to throw an BONUS SONG in here for your enjoyment so you can get a feel for some of his, shall I say --slower sounds.....

I hope you enjoyed my recommendation for this week. Please check back again next Thursday for another Music Mania featured artist.

=Stillife=

2007-10-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

When Saggy Vagina insulted me, the Mister named me Ms. Boobs.

On Halo that is.

And from the first grenade launch, I was hooked.

I've always been a competitor. I hate to lose. And really, if you say you don't mind losing, you're lying. Everyone wants to be the best.

After several weeks of staying up too late playing video games, I was recruited by a "Halo Clan." They called themselves Stillife and they really wanted a talented heavy weapons soldier named Ms. Boobs on their team. I could count on one hand the number of girls that were recruited into clans. We were a rare breed in a male-dominated gaming world.

The name didn't fit with the clan tags, so I became =SL=Boobs. I became great friends with people with names like Anomaly, Hollow, 27 and Paladin. We were our own little online family with forums, weekly practice and a reputation.

Before too long, I was one of the best players in the league. My teammates were proud to play with me. My opponents knew my name and feared my rocket launcher. I became a little celebrity in the original version (there is a Halo 2 & 3 now) of the very popular game.

So popular, in fact, that I became part of the leadership counsel for the clan. I was given access to secret forums and became an integral part of the decision making. I trained new recruits and coached practice sessions.

I spend my weekend nights on teamspeak with folks like Wabbit, Tucker, 5000 and Boom. It was nice to have a release from school and motherhood. I honestly had a great time.

Little by little, our clan family began to change. Founding members began to resign. New members began turning in their tags to play with other teams. But more than anything else, people got tired of Halo; they started playing World of Warcraft and Battlefield 2.

As for me, I turned in my official resignation to Hollow a few months ago. I spend all of my time divided between school and my family. I don't have the time for video games anymore. And in all honesty, I'd lost interest in the game quite some time ago.

I will still play Halo on occasion. I even check the forums now and again, just to keep in touch with the people I've made friends with. But =SL=Boobs is no longer. I guess from this point forward, I'll just always be Boobs.

By the way. My vagina isn't saggy.

Bad luck? Karma? Or take a hint?

2007-10-01T23:28:00.000-07:00

The Mister just completed his first year working for Comcast. He wakes up at the butt crack of dawn, throws on his tool belt and heads out to spend the day climbing telephone poles and inching his way into dark and dirty crawl spaces. He works very hard. In fact, there are days when he is gone before we wake up and comes home after our daughter is well asleep. Needless to say, he deserves a vacation.

So he was super excited to find out that when his year was up, he was entitled to a week's paid vacation. He didn't hesitate to cash in.

His first day off, he did what any really hard-working man would do: nothing. He sat on his butt for an entire day and watched the history channel. I didn't complain; he's entitled to a lazy afternoon. The second day of his vacation was rainy and cold, so he took Curly Mop to the mall to look at puppies and toys while I finished up my school work. The rest of the week consisted of varies trips to the park, several BBQs and even an impromptu sumo-wrestling match.

But he had big plans for his weekend. He was going to throw off the shackles of fatherhood and partnership to do MAN stuff. He made plans to meet up with his brother at the cabin in Medford. He would leave Friday morning and be back late Sunday night.

He woke up Friday morning and headed to the shop to pick up his paycheck. (Whatever happened to him setting up direct deposit, I don't know.) He came home in a near panic. "The airplane that was carrying our company paychecks broke down." According to his boss, his paycheck wouldn't be available until Saturday afternoon. This is a problem for several reasons but one major one. We only have one car and he didn't want to leave me car less for the weekend. He was planning on renting a car. But without a paycheck, it didn't seem as if we could afford it. After a whole day of him stressing out, we decided to throw him on Greyhound. He could take a bus to his brother's. It would be a 6 hours bus ride, but he could sleep or listen to his MP3 player.

A few hours before his bus departed, he got a horrible, throbbing pain in his tooth. He knew right away that it was serious and made an appointment to go in before he left. Low and behold -- a major infection due to his wisdom teeth coming in. We knew this day was coming but neither of us expected for it to happen to fast. We ran to Walgreens and filled his prescription for an antibiotic and a pain killer. Then I dropped him off at the station and he was on his way.

That is, until I got a phone call about an hour later: the bus was broken down on the side of the highway. He was only about 45 minutes out of Portland. Luckily, the company sent another bus to pick them up, but they had to wait nearly two hours. So, instead of getting to his brother's at 1am, he rolled in a little after 3.

He played paintball, went hiking, BBQed ribs; all of the manly stuff he'd hoped to do. He called me last night and told me he was having fun but he was ready to come home. He missed me, he missed his Curly Mop, he wanted to sleep in his own bed. His bus was scheduled to leave at 10:45am. I'd pick him up around 5.

It was barely 1:00 today when I got the call. His BUS was BROKEN down on the side of the highway about an hour from his brother's house. I was stunned. Again? Why does this keep happening? What is wrong with Greyhound?? They sent a mechanic out to fix it, but after three hours of the man scratching his head, he called his brother who promptly drove the hour to pick him up. Besides the wait, he said he refused to get back on that bus with those people. After an hour of waiting, three or four guys decided it was a good idea to walk to the store for beer. After which, two of them started punching and screaming at each other and one guys even pissed his pants. This is no joke.

I wonder if it is some kind of sign that he was supposed to spend his vacation at home with his family. Or maybe Greyhound just sucks. Either way, I'm alone for another night. And the Mister is heading home tomorrow. ON ANOTHER BUS. I'm totally scared.

Mandy's Music Mania!

2007-09-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

So, I am starting my own little blogging tradition. Every Thursday I am going to feature one of my favorite musicians. It would have made more sense to make it "Mandy's Monday Music Mania" but I keep meaning to participate in Fun Mondays. So, if I ever get around to it, I don't want there to be any conflict. So, Thursday is second best. Why you ask? Because today is Thursday. That's why.

Being that it's the first music blog, I should probably write about Ani DiFranco, who is my favorite musician of all time. However, I wrote an Ani D tribute post a few months back. So, instead of gushing and ooohing and ahhhing over her again, I am going to feature another musician, who has made herself a comfortable little spot in my list of favorite musicians EVER.

Sarah Harmer found her way into my life several years ago when I heard her album "Songs for Clem" which was a compilation of her big band covers. The Canadian born singer/songwriter helped me to find a new appreciation for songs
like "Blue Moon of Kentucky" and "Tenneesee Waltz." Her voice is sweet, but strong. Her voice is beautiful, but unique.

The three albums to come, all original pieces I might add, solidified my love for her soulful sound. With a hint of country and a handful of mountain-grown folk, Sarah Harmer is a one-of-a-kind musician with passion and potential. I hope you enjoy her as much as I have.

"Uniform Grey"

"I am Aglow"

Come back next Thursday when I profile another artist. Maybe I will help you find something you didn't even know you were looking for.

Owie Belly

2007-09-22T10:30:00.000-07:00

I decided it was time to clean the bedroom; there was laundry to be done, shoes to be organized and the dusting was overdue. So I let Curly Mop play in her room while I went to work on ours.

After a few minutes, Curly Mop came into my room. She lifted up her shirt and said "Owie belly, Mama. Owie belly." I sat her on the bed, examining her soft and totally ticklish stomach. No blood. No scratches. The only thing I saw, aside from that kissable little tum tum, was a black line which appeared to originate from one of my ball-point pens. "I don't see any owie, Baby. I think you are okay." And away she went.

Ten minutes or so passes and she comes back into the room. She is insistent this time, "Mommy! I got owie on belly!" At this point, I couldn't understand what she meant. And I wasn't too concerned about it because my daughter is a story teller. And she tells me all the time that she has ouchies because she wants the Spongebob band aids in the medicine cabinet. "Honey, I really think you are okay. Mommy isn't going to put any medicine on your belly because I don't see any blood. There's no blood." She repeated me, "No blood." And then continued onto her room to read books.

Another few minutes went by and I realized she wasn't in her room. I started to go downstairs, assuming she's gone and helped herself to a snack or something, when I caught a glimpse of her from the corner of my eye. I turned and found her on the upstairs toilet, a rarity in this house. I went in to wipe her and I found her butt, legs, hands and underwear covered in poo. It became obvious to me that she's had a bout of ~~diarrhea~~... "loose bowels."

I got her clothes off and began rinsing her off in the shower. It was a job much too ambitious for toilet paper and baby wipes. I just hosed her off instead. While I was soaping up her absolutely pinchable little tush, I said to her, "I'm sorry honey. When you told Mommy you had a belly owie, you were trying to tell me that you had an owie IN your belly, weren't you?"

Her response? "Yes Mama. But I pooped it all out."

One Silly Afternoon

2007-09-18T17:48:00.001-07:00

PLEASE ENJOY: "The Pirate's Gospel, Alela Diane"

After the chores were done and the cupboards were stocked
we'd read the books, had lunch and talked.

I saw the look in my child's eyes
and the boredness in her three year old sighs.

I threw on the music, we danced and played
then giggled at all the mess we'd made.

I grabbed the camera, said "honey smile!"
and took silly pictures for awhile.

It certainly turned into a silly afternoon
dancing and pictures to a pirate tune.

I drew a pig too!

2007-09-15T11:31:00.001-07:00

Mom and Karmyn did it, so I had to do it too.

And this is what my drawing says about me.

* you are positive and optimistic.
* you are direct, enjoy playing devil's advocate and neither fear nor avoid discussions.
* you are emotional and naive, they care little for details and are a risk-taker.
* you are secure, stubborn, and stick to their ideals
* you are an OK listener
* The length of the tail indicates the quality of your sex life.
And again more is better! You drew medium sized tail.

So there you go.

She is the reason I exist

2007-09-12T23:06:00.000-07:00

Her smile echoes like the sun's last rays on the ocean.
Even the cosmos dare not contain her.

She is the reason I exist.

Home Sweet Home

2007-09-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely weekend with my parents. It was busy and hectic but enjoyable nonetheless. Curly Mop loves going to grandpa and grandma's house because she gets to run around the huge backyard and she gets lots of extra special attention. Grandma read lots of books with her and grandpa let her feed the fish in the pond. She missed her daddy very much, though. She squealed with glee when we pulled into the driveway and she saw his work truck. "Daddy home!!"

There were two surprises waiting for me when I got home: a headache and a sigh of relief. The headache hit hard after a nice, long shower in my own tub but was warded off by a handful of tylenol. The sigh of relief came when I realized that the U-Haul I saw last week wasn't moving in another neighbor, but was actually moving them OUT. Woooo hoooooo! We still have the neighbors next door, but the family around the corner is gone. Phew!

Portland had a big wind storm while I was gone, so I had to tend to the patio and "yard." (I use quotations because it's less of a yard and more of a patch of dirt around the concrete.) As if I hadn't had enough of gardening over the weekend with Dad, I had to come home and pick leaves out of my plants and sweep up the crap that had blown back there. It didn't take too long, but I was already so tired. It just wore me out even more.

I was so tired last night that I fell asleep sitting up with my cat in my lap. I had some really strange dreams though, so I woke up several times throughout the night. I repositioned myself on the couch and passed back out, just to have the dreams start up again. I was dreaming that I was going crazy, seeing dead relatives in the mirror behind me -- seeing non-existant bats flying around my apartment -- watching dead bodies fall from the sky that no one else could see. Very odd. But it interruppted my sleep enough that I woke up feeling like I could sleep another few hours.

School starts in two weeks. I am anxious to get started again. I feel a post coming on -- so stay tuned to learn all about the art of writing 225 words per minute. Have a wonderful week folks.

Wahili Hucka Toothbrush

2007-09-03T22:48:00.000-07:00

The moment I found out I was pregnant, I looked at Joey and said, "We are moving out of this neighborhood." We lived on a very questionable corner of Southeast Portland. Our apartment overlooked the Metropolitan Area Express, aka the MAX line, which is the main form of transportation in the metro area. With the train came transients, drug dealers and gang violence. Or should I say bums, tweekers and thugs. It was no place to raise a baby.

I knew what part of town I wanted to live in, but we assumed we wouldn't be able to afford it. It is a very popular part of town, surrounded by local businesses, beautiful parks, even a mountain. Folks pay good money to live in a beautiful neighborhood. Well, we were pleasantly surprised when we answered an ad in the paper and got connected with Kai. He showed us the apartment, which was way under priced for the area, and we immediately applied to live here. We were approved, moved in and decorating the baby's room in a matter of ~ a week.

Even better, we had pleasant neighbors and quiet nights. No gunshots outside, no spousal abuse next door, and no crack heads knocking on the door-- asking to use the bathroom at 2 in the morning. Across the way was a young family; a red-headed mom and a good looking dad with two adorable little boys. She took it upon herself to upkeep the yards and sweep the parking lot. Next door was a Hispanic family; a hard-working mother and father with two teenage girls. We were so happy for them when they got approved for a home loan and purchased their first family home.

Kai spent the next several weeks cleaning, painting, and prepping the apartment next door. I made my way over one afternoon and asked him if he'd lined anyone up for the apartment. He told me that there was a family, one that lived in a street-facing apartment in our complex, that would be moving in. I knew the family was there, only because there was a creepy old man that stared out of the window at me whenever I walked outside. Other than that, we'd had no contact with them. He goes on to explain to me that the family, of some Island descent, had far too many people living in one apartment. He had asked them to split into two apartments or he would have to ask them to leave. (He estimated 10 adults and 4 kids were living in a two bedroom townhouse.) They agreed to split up. And that is how the Pacific Islanders came to be my neighbors.

We noticed right away that our new neighbors were not friendly. No passing smiles. No subtle nods. Not even an acknowledging glance. With the exception of one teenage girl and one pre-teen boy, we haven't had a single positive experience with these people. This wouldn't be a good blog read, though, if I didn't dish on the dirt -- tell you all the juicy details of how horrible they are.

The first thing that began bothering me was the utter and complete disregard for the safety of the children. I am NOT in ANY way exaggerating when I say that the kids, probably ages 3 to 6, play ball in the street with no parental supervision. When I confronted the little tyke with, "Honey, you might not want to play in the street. I don't want to see you get hurt." He turned around, flipped me the bird and fully told me, "F*ck you!" and ran away. The next day I saw the little boy playing on the dumpster, but I didn't waste my breath that time.

The men in the family spend a lot of their time in the apartment basement, which also doubles as the community laundry facilities. The head down with beer, smokes and hair clippers and spend the evening partying and cutting one another's hair. In the morning, one would find empty beer bottles, half smoked cigarettes and piles of hair all over the basement floor. The laundry room is also a personal dump for the lot of them. What you or I would drop off at a donation center sits in large piles of unwanted clothes in the corner of the laundry room until the landlord, bless his heart, removes it.

One afternoon, Joey went outside and started up his motorcycle. It wasn't uncommon for neighbors to shut their doors or windows when the engine roared, I mean -- it is a hog after all. Motorcycles aren't quiet. What was particular about this day was that instead of the usual slamming of the front door, the Mister started up the bike and immediately felt something hit. Someone had totally thrown a toothbrush out of the upstairs window and smacked.him.in.the.back.of.his.head. A toothbrush. Out the window. At his head. What the hell is up with that? It must be an island thing, because not long after that, I was outside enjoying a glass of wine with a few friends when an AOL install CD flew out of the same window and crashed at our feet.

The worst part about it? We are NOT getting rid of them. I don't mean to sound insensitive, but these people are multiplying like roaches. Every day, and I mean every day, there is someone coming or going that I've never seen before. Just today there was a U-Haul outside their place, unloading a bunch of furniture into an already jam-packed apartment. My landlord is fully aware of what's going on, but I think he is beginning to feel as desperate about it as we do. I just have to hold onto the hope that someday soon, we will be able to buy a house; leave these apartments and the toothbrush-hucking islanders behind us forever.

Blog.

2007-09-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

Now all we need is dad. Then we will be one complete blogging family. As most of you know, the "other" sister is venturing into the exciting new world of Blogtopia. With a hubby, five kids, numerous pets and a fast-paced career, I don't know how she will find the time to write and read, but I am sure she will be hook-line-and sinkered in no time. I wanted to write hook-line-and stinkered in no time, but I suppose I should give her a fair chance before I start putting ideas in your head. I'll let you judge her stinkeredness for yourself.

I've been struggling internally with my own blogging experience. Mom and Kar have all sorts of readers and all kinds of stories. Although I thoroughly enjoy writing and have certainly developed an appreciation for reading other people's blog, I often find myself asking, "Why would anyone be interested in reading my blog? Why would a complete stranger want to hear about my childhood experiences or the day-to-day stuff that most folks write about? Why would anyone give a rat's hoot about me or my day?" I also find myself wondering, "How much information is too much information? What line do I draw and where do I draw it?"

Mom tells stories about her dad's adventures in Hop-Yard Hobo and about the birds that have adopted her yard. Karmyn writes about family vacations, posts pictures from her amazing garden and shares stories about her beautiful children. She also admits to the grey hairs resulting from the previously mentioned. What do I have that compares to any of that? I don't have a garden OR a fancy schmancy camera to take totally awesome pictures with. There are no hummingbird in my backyard, or should I say prison-cell-sized patio. There are certainly no family vacations to Disneyland. We live off one-income, need I remind you. What neat, cool, fun, exciting, awesome, radical, even remotely interesting thing do I have to talk about with total strangers?

Ah yes! I remember now.

My Curly Mop,

My LIFE.

The Advocate

2007-08-26T11:30:00.000-07:00

My sister, Karmyn, took the test.... so I had to take it too!! The results don't surprise me, as I have had a whole 26 years to learn who I am. What does surprise me is that Karmyn and I are close and get along very well, and we couldn't be more different.

This survey tells me that being an ENFP means that I can't stand to be out of the loop, and simply hearing about something isn't enough. I have to experience it for myself. This is true. Some of my biggest regrets include missing road trips with friends and wild parties from which the best stories have originated.

It also tells me relationships are ultra important to me; that through our loyalty and steadfastness, we are often victimized by a less-caring individual. I'll spare you the details of my dating histories and such... just trust that this applies to me.

Apparently ENFPs are natural born leaders. We have the ability to use our charisma and enthusiasm for life to helps others understand and achieve their potential. You'd have to ask my friends whether or not this one is true. But it sounds pretty familiar.

An ENFP has warmth, energy and positivity. They are considered visionaries and natural advocates, "actively sending their thoughts and ideas out into the world as a way to bring attention to what they feel to be important."

Famous ENFPs include Charles Dickens, Carol Burnett, Robin Williams and Bob Dylan. Fictional characters include Urkel, The Little Mermaid and Balki from Perfect Strangers. ha ha ha

The Catuhpilluh

2007-08-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

I tell you what: my little Curly Mop is growing so fast. Not only is she starting to outgrow her shoes and dozens of her toys, she is talking in full sentences. This means she is starting to say some very cute and very funny things.

She was watching the tele this morning (Mickey Mouse, her new favorite character) when I hear her yell at me from across the room. "Look Mama!! It's a catuhpilluh!" Sure enough. I walked over and found a little yella fella inching his way across our entertainment center. I turned to my little angel, "Well, should we put him outside where he belongs?" "Yeah Mama, outside." So I grabbed a sheet of paper, scooped the little guy up and gently placed him on the ground outside the front door. Curly Mop promptly stuck her head out the door, "Have a nice day catuhpilluh!"

Tell me that isn't absolutely adorable.

Also, I don't recommend going to bed with a full stomach of vegetable gyro.

The Seer

2007-08-12T23:29:00.000-07:00

You would be lying if you said you weren't embarrassed by your parents at one point in your lifetime. Whether it was when they cheered for you a little too loud at your basketball game or when they chaperoned your middle school frolic. Maybe it was when your mom commented on the shapeliness of your rear end while you were trying to pitch a softball. Or, maybe that was just my mom.

Now that I'm a little older, my mom's wit and humor doesn't bother me as much. But when I was a teenager, I melted when my mom opened her mouth. She would say things like "If you don't knock that off, I will hang you upside down and put butter on your face and let the dog lick it off." Or she would threaten to "knock heads together" if people were arguing or fighting. She topped it off by telling embarrassing stories to my (brand new) boyfriends -- like how I ate a bunch of sand at the beach and pooped out nothing but sand. She never failed to add, mind you, that my little butt was "just raw and red."

The only thing worse: My mother sees penises wherever she goes. These days, of course, I am amused by her observations and find myself chiming in. But when I was younger, I was mortified whenever she pointed them out. We were driving down the street, going out for frozen yogurt if I remember correctly: "Look everyone! That tree looks like a penis." She was sitting on the toilet: "Look at the floor, Amanda! That tile looks like a penis!!" The woman couldn't even make a salad without commenting on the cucumber.

I am like my mom in a lot of ways; I can't deny that she's rubbed off on me in more ways than one. Thanks a lot, Mom, for giving me the gift of penis seer. Now, I see male genitalia wherever I go. Maybe, just maybe, I can embarrass the hell out of my daughter someday, too.

Concert on the Lawn

2007-08-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

My friend Angela called me last week, informed me that she had tickets to see the band "Slightly Stoopid" and invited me to go with her. I had heard a few of their songs. But I am, by no means, a die hard fan. But, who am I to turn down a free concert, right??

SO Angela and Marc picked me up around 5:30 and we headed out to McMenamins Edgefield. McMenamins is a local chain of restaurants and bars that have made QUITE the name for themselves. Not only do they brew their own beer, but their most of their properties were purchased as abandoned or decrepit buildings and were renovated into very neat venues and restaurants. This particular venue was purchased as 38 acres of farmland; the Edgefield building dating back to 1911. They offer an on-site golf course, beautiful ponds and gardens, and tranquil rooms for folks looking to spend the night on the grounds.

During summer, Edgefield holds "Concerts on the lawn" and this was our destination last night. There is a HUGE open lawn (which I might add contained the lushest, softest grass I'd ever stood on!!) and a gigantic stage that is powered solely by renewable energy. So we took a blanket, partook in some locally brewed Hammerhead Ale, and enjoyed the california sounds of Slighty Stoopid. (And all Edgefield's beer comes to it's customers via wind power! In case you haven't noticed, it is an environmentally concious company.

It was such a good show that the 10 minute wait for beer, the 15 minute wait for the port-a-potty bathrooms, and the half hour wait to get out of the parking lot after the show was worth it. We enjoyed good beer, good friends and good music. And for ME it couldn't get any better because it was totally free.

Silly surveys

2007-08-05T21:51:00.000-07:00

You Need Some Green in Your Life

Green will make you feel alive, renewed, and balanced.

And with a little green, you will project an aura of peacefulness and harmony.

If you want stability, you've got to get a little green in your life!

For extra punch: Combine green with blue or purple

The downside of green: It can promote jealousy in yourself or others

The consequences of more green in your life:

You will be drawn to a new life path

You will feel free to pursue new ideas and interests, no matter how strange

You will be released from the demands and concerns of others

What Color Do You Need?

And I believe this, even though it's a silly little made-up survey. Green always invigorates me. It is my favorite color; and it's the color of my inner-self room.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

size: 14pt;'>What Your Dreams Mean...

Your dreams seem to show that you're very preoccupied with your fears and problems.

These bad dreams indicate that you need to spend more time on your issues during the day.

Your dreams tend to reflect your insecurities.

You have a very vivid imagination and a rich creative mind.

You secretly want to hide your dreams from your waking mind.

What Do Your Dreams Mean?

I have increasingly disturbing dreams -- I'm reading books and doing research to find out why I'm suddenly dreaming so active and vivid.
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You Are Midnight

You are more than a little eccentric, and you're apt to keep very unusual habits.

Whether you're a nightowl, living in a commune, or taking a vow of silence - you like to experiment with your lifestyle.

Expressing your individuality is important to you, and you often lie awake in bed thinking about the world and your place in it.

You enjoy staying home, but that doesn't mean you're a hermit. You also appreciate quality time with family and close friends.

What Time Of Day Are You?
----------------------------------------------

Whatdya know? Midnight is my FAVORITE time of day!!
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Your Linguistic Profile:

70% General American English

15% Upper Midwestern

5% Dixie

5% Midwestern

0% Yankee

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

I guess I ain't no yank!
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Your Life is Rated R

Your life is definitely adults only. While children accompanied by parents are welcome, they'll probably be scarred for life.

What is Your Life Rated?

I bet you aren't surprised.
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You Are a Beagle Puppy

Cheerful, energetic, and happy go lucky.

And you're sense of smell is absolutely amazing!

What Breed of Puppy Are You?

What cracks me up is I TOTALLY have an AMAZING sense of smell. Ask my mom.
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You Belong in 1969

You are a free spirit with a huge heart. Love, peace, and happiness rule - oh, and drugs too.

What Year Do You Belong In?

I dig.
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Your EQ is 147

50 or less: Thanks for answering honestly. Now get yourself a shrink, quick!

51-70: When it comes to understanding human emotions, you'd have better luck understanding Chinese.

71-90: You've got more emotional intelligence than the average frat boy. Barely.

91-110: You're average. It's easy to predict how you'll react to things. But anyone could have guessed that.

111-130: You usually have it going on emotionally, but roadblocks tend to land you on your butt.

131-150: You are remarkable when it comes to relating with others. Only the biggest losers get under your skin.

150+: Two possibilities - you've either out "Dr. Phil-ed" Dr. Phil... or you're a dirty liar.

What's Your EQ (Emotional Intelligence Quotient)?

Maybe I'm just good at taking tests....
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What Your Peanut Butter And Jelly Sandwich Means

Your eating style is gluttonous. If you like something, you're going back for seconds... no matter how full you are!

You have a total sweet tooth. When you can get away with it, you like to have dessert before dinner!

Your taste in food tends to be quite eclectic and wide. You are an adventurous eater, and you like many types of cuisines.

You belong to a class that's all your own. You resist rules and traditions of any sort.

You are a tough person who isn't afraid to live life fully. There isn't a lot that scares you.

Precise and controlled, you can be a bit anal retentive when it comes to how you like things. You're definitely a perfectionist.

What Does Your Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Say About You?

I'll TOTALLY go back for seconds, too. Damn test ratted me out.
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Your Dominant Intelligence is Linguistic Intelligence

You are excellent with words and language. You explain yourself well.

An elegant speaker, you can converse well with anyone on the fly.

You are also good at remembering information and convicing someone of your point of view.

A master of creative phrasing and unique words, you enjoy expanding your vocabulary.

You would make a fantastic poet, journalist, writer, teacher, lawyer, politician, or translator.

What Kind of Intelligence Do You Have?

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Your Inner Retro Girl Is

1960s Hippie Chick

What Retro Girl Are You?

That's all folks. PEACE & LOVE

Untitled, By Amanda

2007-08-05T09:05:00.000-07:00
This way, that way
she bends the frame
igniting
the crimson colored flame.

She combs the witching hour
to inspire the skies
but she retreats to the corners
of her unforgiving eyes.

Her fury-filled breeze
sweeps upon them a song
but the weary have the
inflection all wrong.

Lowly like a windless oak
or ecru skies
she retreats to the corners
of her unwilling eyes.
Amanda
'07

W.C. Fields ROCKS!

2007-07-30T10:59:00.000-07:00
There is an old superstition that warns, "When a cow lifts it's tail, it is a sure sign of coming rain." I don't know about you, but I always figured it meant that the cow was gonna crap.

Triskaidekaphobia is defined as the irrational fear of the number 13. Triskaidekaphobes are those folks affected by this number. In defense of their condition, many of them point out the ill-fated Apollo 13 mission and believe that if you have 13 letters in your name, you are vulnerable to the devil's luck: Jack the Ripper's name contains 13 letters, as does Charles Manson and Jeffrey Dahmer. Hey, I've got 13 dollars to my name, and I'm pretty stoked about that!

The average ejaculate contains approximately 2 to 5 calories. Sorry honey, I'm on a diet.

Regardless of how you feel about the controversial subject, most people will agree that the worldwide growth of industy is contributing to global warming and the depletion of our ozone layer. What you probably don't know is that scientist are also pointing their fingers at a little bug called a Humble Termite. Due to their unique diet and digestive processes, they produce insane amounts of methane gas -- so much that they are believed to be a major contributor to worldwide global warming. And I thought that most of the methane was being emitted from Joey's side of the bed....

And it was W.C. Fields who said, "Ah, the pitter patter of little feet around the house. There's nothing like having a midget for a butler."

"The Talk"

2007-07-28T00:39:00.000-07:00
My best friend, Sek, got pregnant at the (disgustingly) young age of 15. So, while I prepare my daughter for Pre-K, my closest pal of 14 years is having with her daughter "the talk." She asked me on several occasions how I thought she should broach the subject with her, and my only advice was to talk openly and honestly with her: proper terminology - none of that "If anyone wants to touch your foo-foo..." bullshit. Tell her she's got a vagina. (And tell her that no one gets to touch it!!)

Sek's problem seemed to solve itself when, to her relief, her daughter's school sent home a pamphlet describing what kinds of things were to be covered in the 4th grade Health class. A whole chapter was being dedicated to sexual education, and the school wanted to give the parents the opportunity to talk to their kids about it home before the teachers did. Sek read over the information with her husband and then sat down with my god-daughter to have "the talk." Her 10 year-old responded well to the chat and Sek walked away feeling satisfied.

Tonight, I spent all day and evening at Sek's house with her now THREE children. Her husband's work had an Employee Appreciation Dinner and their prearranged sitter cancelled last minute. I gathered up Curly Mop and took over without hesitation. With a ten-year old, a four year-old and an infant, I knew they needed the break. And while the youngest napped and the our two toddlers played, Sek's oldest posted up at the stove and began helping me cook dinner.

"Aunty Mandy. I started puberty."

"Really? What makes you so sure."

"Well, I got some zits."

"Hmmm. I have some too."

"And I took a maturity test out of this magazine. It says I'm mature."

"Cool, Liv. I think you are mature. You are certainly helping out around the house a lot. Have you talked to your mom about puberty"

"Yeah."

"What kinds of things did you talk about?"

"We talked about sperm."

RESISTING A GIGGLE "What do you know about sperm?"

"It's a fertilizer."

COUGH COUGH "Well, it IS kind of fertilizer. Do you know what it fertilizes?"

"The egg."

"What egg?"

"The egg that makes a baby! They taught me that in school."

At this point, I am wondering how FAR Sek wants me to take this conversation. But I think it's important that her daughter trusts me to have this kind of talk, so I let her continue.

"You're right, honey. The sperm and the egg make a baby. That's how you were made. And your brother and sister, too. So do you understand how the egg and the sperm meet?"

LONG PAUSE.

"Doughnut and hot dog."

"DOUGHNUT AND HOT DOG?! Is that what they taught you in school?!"

"No, I kinda came up with that one on my own."

! ! ! ! ! !

6 hours and several drinks later, Sek walks in the door and thanks me everlasting for giving her the night off. NO Biggie, I reassure her. I love her kids. By the way, here is the conversation I had with your daughter. Good night!

A Girl Can Dream!

2007-07-14T20:43:00.000-07:00
When I actually DO yoga, I feel great. It's just hard to find the time, a clean space and the energy at the end of the day. But I understand what draws people to it. Not only does it make your body tingle, but also your mind. At the end of a really good yoga session, my mind is clear and my body tells me "thank you! finally!"

I admire the people who have intergrated yoga into their every day lives; who lead physically and mentally healthy lives; who can do THIS!

(look at her -- on ONE foot!!)

If I keep at it, who knows. Maybe someday I can do all those things.
Hey, a girl can dream!!

We Are Free

2007-07-04T15:41:00.001-07:00
This beautiful day on which we celebrate our independence, I am thankful for the freedom that so many people have fought for. For without those sacrifices made in the name of freedom, I wouldn't be able to enjoy those things that bring joy, individualism, and passion to life. Today, I celebrate the 4th of July being thankful for things like....

.... laughing, bowling and taking silly pictures to celebrate my birthday.

.... blowing bubbles whenever the urge so strikes.

.... watching my best friend fall in love with a man, regardless of the colors of their skin.

.... spending time with family, and letting grandmas play silly games with their grandbabies.

.... spending my life with whomever I choose.

.... and being whoever I want to be.

Happy Birthday, Curly Mop!

2007-06-29T12:31:00.000-07:00

Three years ago today, we welcomed our little angel into our lives. She stole our hearts from the moment we laid eyes on her. I couldn't have imagined, 3 years and a day ago, that is was possible to love someone so much.

She came out smiling and has smiled since.
And her smile brightens our lives.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY LITTLE DOLL!

Six Sleepy Things

2007-06-27T21:40:00.001-07:00
I borrowed this from Sunrunner. :)

1. I sleep more comfortably on a bed if I sleep sideways. I don't understand it and I don't pretend to. I just do what Mr. Sandman tells me to do. ( I have a California King sized bed. I can sleep sideways and my feet hardly hang off the other side. Super sweet deal, I might add!)

2. I can't sleep in shorts. Even if my room is boiling, I have to sleep in long pants.

3. My feet have to be uncovered most of the night. The only execption is if I am scared of whatever. Then, for some completely unfounded reason, I feel more safe with my piglets tucked in.

4. In the past year or so, I've been experiencing some form of asteral projection in the middle of the night. I can't explain it in words. And if I am going to try to explain it, it will be a whole 'nother blog. But I wake up feeling both scared and settled. It's an uncomfortable peace. Again - can't really use words to describe it. But it is real and it continues to happen.

5. I am a half side / half stomach sleeper and I usually have to wake up several times in the middle of the night to switch sides. I sleep more comfortably on my right side; but by midnight my hips are sore and I have to rotate to the other side. I haven't slept a full night in forever. Even with the new "heavenly bed".

With that I bid you all good night! Don't let the bed bugs bite.
See, I am so tired from all the tossing and turning, I couldn't even come up with a better farewell.

Southern Hospitality

2007-06-19T17:58:00.000-07:00
It was 10 years ago.

My sister and her family were living on the east coast. The bro-in-law was in the Air Force and stationed in Dover, Delaware. We decided to take a 4th of July trip to go visit. I was totally heartbroken because I had to leave behind my high school sweetheart, Jordan, but I was excited to see all of the new sights.

We made a short stop in the midwest; my mom's oldest brother and his family had made their way out to Missouri years ago. And they were still there. So, we flew into Oklahoma City and drove out to spend a few days. It wasn't just distant miles keeping me from knowing this part of my family. The age difference need also be taken into consideration. These are the children of my first-born uncle. Seven children later came my mother. And I was the youngest of HER kids. Needless to say, I was a young, young woman. And my cousins were much older and wiser.

I was deteremined, nonetheless, to connect with my family. I took an extra special liking to my 2nd cousin, Eff. This 6 or 7 year old son of my cousin was witty, funny and full of information. His southern draw was thick and brilliant. He had absolutely no shame in having such a rich accent. In fact, he relished in it.

My cousin convinced my mom of a must-see, so we got in the car and drove to a fairly remote location and parked at a bridge. We were invited to come along, but when Eff and I insisted on staying in the car, they went on ahead without us. Without an ounce of hesitation, my 6 (ish) year old 2nd cousin turns to me, and in an absurdly exaggerated southern way says to me, "Yup. Mah boss's wife is buried up in dem hills out der."

I was stunned at his utterance for several obvious reasons, the main one being -- well, he certainly doesn't have a job so it's not possible for him to have a boss.

I turned to Eff, "Is that right?"

"Yup. Poor ol gal. She died of Gingivitis."

*We decided later that Eff must have heard the term used on television and came to the conclusion that it sounded very bad. 10 years later and THIS is how I remember my cousins*

The Countdown

2007-06-05T23:23:00.001-07:00
The Countdown

I packed up Curly Mop and headed to the bank. I had to make a deposit with the teller. Immediately, my daughter was the center of attention. Every bank patron witnessed a song and a dance; some even made comments about her curly hair.

She held onto the rope which had the patient customers corralled and began counting backwards from five.
" .. 5 ..
.. 4 ..
.. 3 ..
.. 2 ..
.. 1 ..
Gaw Dammit"

There was a collective gasp and then every pair of eyes in the joint turned to me.
"Don't look at me! I don't know where she learned that!"

I thought I was going to die.