At last. I'm in. I've moved. And I'm 80% unpacked. The kitchen in ready for the first big meal to be made (beside cereal). The Master Bedroom is together and worthy of the great big black beast of burden (he approves). Pictures hung (thanks Blueberry and Kris). Cable's set up (thanks cable guy). Books on their shelves. Clothes in their proper storage...and I have room left. Can you believe it? My dresser is almost completely empty because of the killer closet set in the master closet.
Now...the move. Thanks to Seattle Sister-in-Law I was able to get moved. I was dead. This cold is kicking my a**. Without SSIL there to keep me moving, I think I would have just let the movers move without me. I was pooped yesterday. In fact, ended up in bed by 7:30. I tend to tire out so quickly with this !#$%^ cold.
So soon you'll see some photos of the Jendo. Tomorrow is my day of rest!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Just when you thought it was safe...
I've decided to take a half day today to get home and finish packing. In the meantime, enjoy this song that's stuck in my head as you ready my boring blog today. And I suppose I should apologize ahead of time cuz it'll be stuck in your noggin for days now.
Last day in the hood today. Bittersweet in some ways. I really like the neighborhood I live in, but I really hate the commute. The new neighborhood will kick ass no doubt.
Last night met The Dane and Chicken Lady for a quick bite and then over to the Jendo to help move the closet modules back into the closet. Holy Mother of God those things were heavy. And no boy in sight to help us poor defenseless girls...okay, so not so poor and not so defenseless. We were, after all, hopped up on Thai food.
The new carpet looks good. It smells so new and carpet-ty. There were some issues getting it installed (delays really) and that had me a bit worried I'd be moving in and having to move everything for the carpet to be installed next week. But alas, all my worrying was for not. Maybe never on a Thursday, a Thursay, a Thursday should I stress.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Were heading for venus and still we stand tall...
Sorry for the 80's reference in the title...wait, no I'm not. Two things about this song...at Quartz Hill the year I was rifle captain, this was the main song in our field show. Oddly enough, I still get glimpses of the routine. Wait, I totally just lied. It wasn't the Final Countdown, it was Only Time Could Tell, by Asia. What a dork! I blame the cold medicine.
The other thing about the Final Countdown,
every
single
time I say "final countdown" the song pops into my head. Which makes perfect sense, right? If you watched the video, what wicked hair right? He's got such body in his hair when he bounces up and down. Who didn't love the 80's hair bands?
Ahem...
Right, so the final countdown for the move is progressing at lightening speed. Suddenly I feel like I don't have enough time...for which I blame the cold. It's taking 10% as much effort to pack as it normally would because after I pack a box, I have to sit and rest. Stupid cold!
I'm also counting down the number of commutes I have left. I have 2.5 full commutes left - thanks for asking. That's 100 miles for you mathy types.
And with that, I think I'll actually get to work this morning. Though the brain isn't engaging properly. Not even coffee is helping. Which is always a bad sign.
The other thing about the Final Countdown,
every
single
time I say "final countdown" the song pops into my head. Which makes perfect sense, right? If you watched the video, what wicked hair right? He's got such body in his hair when he bounces up and down. Who didn't love the 80's hair bands?
Ahem...
Right, so the final countdown for the move is progressing at lightening speed. Suddenly I feel like I don't have enough time...for which I blame the cold. It's taking 10% as much effort to pack as it normally would because after I pack a box, I have to sit and rest. Stupid cold!
I'm also counting down the number of commutes I have left. I have 2.5 full commutes left - thanks for asking. That's 100 miles for you mathy types.
And with that, I think I'll actually get to work this morning. Though the brain isn't engaging properly. Not even coffee is helping. Which is always a bad sign.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Well it winds through Chicago to LA....
The countdown is on. T minus 5 days. I'm not counting today since it's already, well, today.
Depeche Mode is helping me finish my packing today. Pookie happens to really like their version of Route 66...as do I. I'm about 90% done packing. Just the left over items in the kitchen that don't quite have homes yet, and a few odds and ends in the spare room. Otherwise, I'm in box heaven. I'm at 37 boxes right now and expect to crack my record of 41 without any problem.
Just found out the carpet will be installed on Tuesday next week, which gives us 2 days for the cleaners to get in there and clean just in time for the Great Move. I gave it my best worry - but it seems it will all work out just right. As if I had a doubt!
I'm in the middle of cleaning the oven too today. I've never in all my 40 years let a self cleaning oven, clean itself. It's always scared me just enough that I've just used Easy Off. Not this time. No Easy Off for me. I decided it was potentially too toxic and so we're going the natural - oven route. It's been going for an hour and man it's hot and stinky.
Okay, I need to get back to Depeche Mode and the kitchen packing. Toodles.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Rest In Peace Uncle Dick: 1929 -2009
When I was younger, I used to spend summers with my Grandparent’s (my mom’s parents). I have so many found memories of those summers in California. Grandpa was always the one I wanted to follow around and help. I adored grandma and grandpa. They were fun, but in a no nonsense sort of way. They had a simple way about them. They weren’t rich with money, but were rich with love and integrity. Character traits they passed down to their kids
Grandpa had three older children with another woman before he married the woman who would become my grandmother. Uncle Dick was the oldest of grandpa’s kids. And was like a mini version of Grandpa.
Uncle Dick passed away last night. He was 80. His passing isn’t a surprise, and in some senses a blessing. He’s been sick for several weeks, and we all knew it was just a matter of time. He lived a good, long life, and it was his time to be in peace.
Sadly, I didn’t get too much of an opportunity in my life to really get to know him. We never really visited them, because they lived in Alaska. We’d only really see him when there would be a family reunion. It’s only been really the last two years - since he moved to Tucson - that I’ve been fortunate enough to get to know him. He reminded me in so many ways of my grandpa – which makes sense sine Uncle Dick was his son. His eyes sparkled like grandpa’s did. You could tell when he was about to make a funny because he’d get an almost impish look on his face. His sense of humor was very slight, but it was there. When you saw it, you laughed.
He’s a veteran. He fought in WWII and Vietnam – that I know of. He flew helicopters in Vietnam. He liked to talk about flying, but didn’t like to talk about the wars. He may have fought in a few others, but I remember only discussing these two with him.
He was honest, loving, and sincere. A man true to his word. You knew where you stood with him, and if you were on his side, you were lucky. If you weren’t, you knew it.
He’s the first of my mom’s siblings to pass. She’s handling it as well as could be expected. He’ll be missed by us all. But he’s in a better place laughing it up with other relatives who have passed.
Grandpa had three older children with another woman before he married the woman who would become my grandmother. Uncle Dick was the oldest of grandpa’s kids. And was like a mini version of Grandpa.
Uncle Dick passed away last night. He was 80. His passing isn’t a surprise, and in some senses a blessing. He’s been sick for several weeks, and we all knew it was just a matter of time. He lived a good, long life, and it was his time to be in peace.
Sadly, I didn’t get too much of an opportunity in my life to really get to know him. We never really visited them, because they lived in Alaska. We’d only really see him when there would be a family reunion. It’s only been really the last two years - since he moved to Tucson - that I’ve been fortunate enough to get to know him. He reminded me in so many ways of my grandpa – which makes sense sine Uncle Dick was his son. His eyes sparkled like grandpa’s did. You could tell when he was about to make a funny because he’d get an almost impish look on his face. His sense of humor was very slight, but it was there. When you saw it, you laughed.
He’s a veteran. He fought in WWII and Vietnam – that I know of. He flew helicopters in Vietnam. He liked to talk about flying, but didn’t like to talk about the wars. He may have fought in a few others, but I remember only discussing these two with him.
He was honest, loving, and sincere. A man true to his word. You knew where you stood with him, and if you were on his side, you were lucky. If you weren’t, you knew it.
He’s the first of my mom’s siblings to pass. She’s handling it as well as could be expected. He’ll be missed by us all. But he’s in a better place laughing it up with other relatives who have passed.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Ahhh, what a combo! It's my sick food. Know what that means? Yep. I'm getting the ick. It's been rotating around at work, and just about everyone I know has had it / has it. The ick is most definitely set up home in my head/chest. Oh goody.
I tried having a conversation with the ick to see if it would perhaps wait until Feb 2 to come on. I mean two weeks isn't that much to ask is it?
I'm very behind in packing. I was planning on using this weekend to finish packing everything. Next week should be all about cleaning and no packing. Well except for the "last box" that gets packed. The last box contains coffee, coffee pot, cup, bed supplies, and bathroom necessities. Whatever you know you'll need for the first night and next morning. I've spent many nights looking for the items previously mentioned - so past experiences has taught me about this box.
The only other box that may need to be packed is the "what the hell do I do with this" box. That's the box of things you didn't know which box to put it in, and now you're desperate and it goes into whatever box is left.
As I pack my life up into cardboard boxes, I reminisce (did the song Reminiscing pop into your head? Or was that just me? Sing with me..."Friday night it was late, I was walking you home, we got down to the the gate, and I was dreaming of the night... Walking through the park and reminiscing) my previous moves. What good and what bad came with the each move. The fun in driving around the "new" area finding the short cuts, finding the local Starbucks, or finding the best sandwich place around. The hidden little secrets of a new city that are just waiting for me. Now granted in the last 15 years my moves have kept me in the general Seattle area, but none the less, each move has brought with it a new adventure. Sometimes as small as having a spare room now. Other times, has big as having a STARBUCKS RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET!! ahem.
And so, we're down to 9 days until the move, 7 commutes - 280 miles, but who's counting. The townhouse is coming together. It'll be close, but I think the carpet will be installed on time, and the cleaning complete before my first box gets put into place. I have been taking little trips to visit the new Chez Jenn's down to it during my lunch hour to drop off a few fragile items.
Alright then, I'm glad we had this little chat. I'm going to go stick a neti pot in my nostril and see what joy comes out. But you probably didn't need to know that.
I tried having a conversation with the ick to see if it would perhaps wait until Feb 2 to come on. I mean two weeks isn't that much to ask is it?
I'm very behind in packing. I was planning on using this weekend to finish packing everything. Next week should be all about cleaning and no packing. Well except for the "last box" that gets packed. The last box contains coffee, coffee pot, cup, bed supplies, and bathroom necessities. Whatever you know you'll need for the first night and next morning. I've spent many nights looking for the items previously mentioned - so past experiences has taught me about this box.
The only other box that may need to be packed is the "what the hell do I do with this" box. That's the box of things you didn't know which box to put it in, and now you're desperate and it goes into whatever box is left.
As I pack my life up into cardboard boxes, I reminisce (did the song Reminiscing pop into your head? Or was that just me? Sing with me..."Friday night it was late, I was walking you home, we got down to the the gate, and I was dreaming of the night... Walking through the park and reminiscing) my previous moves. What good and what bad came with the each move. The fun in driving around the "new" area finding the short cuts, finding the local Starbucks, or finding the best sandwich place around. The hidden little secrets of a new city that are just waiting for me. Now granted in the last 15 years my moves have kept me in the general Seattle area, but none the less, each move has brought with it a new adventure. Sometimes as small as having a spare room now. Other times, has big as having a STARBUCKS RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET!! ahem.
And so, we're down to 9 days until the move, 7 commutes - 280 miles, but who's counting. The townhouse is coming together. It'll be close, but I think the carpet will be installed on time, and the cleaning complete before my first box gets put into place. I have been taking little trips
Alright then, I'm glad we had this little chat. I'm going to go stick a neti pot in my nostril and see what joy comes out. But you probably didn't need to know that.
Monday, January 19, 2009
All the single ladies...
I think I'll start titling my blogs with a line from whatever song seems to be stuck in my head. Since the alarm went off this morning I've had Rehab and Mercy on the brain (I think they both sound similar so I combine the two songs...don't ask.) Then I got Beyonce's Single Ladies on the brain...and that's the one that stuck. Ugh. It's such a curse.
Right, okay, this weekend in review.
Packed
Cleaned
Socialized
Packed
Cleaned
Socialized
Packed
Packed
Cleaned
Cleaned
Yah, that covers it. I saw that yawn. I can't help it if my life is revolving around moving.
Ah yes, the move. I'm behind the 8 ball now. I've been delaying packing a few rooms because I was sure I would need stuff in those rooms. And I had anticipated being able to pack at least one this weekend - which got put aside to help The Dane go through more stuff in the soon to be Chez Jenn's. Which was fine, I rather enjoyed going through someone else's stuff...it just put me behind. So ruthless packing and cleaning starts tomorrow. Can't start tonight due to socializing. What? I have my priorities.
In other news, the Stang decided to take a hill sideways this morning. In less than a 15 minute window, the roads became very slick. I left Starbuck's on my way into the office (all of a quarter mile) and coming down the big hill into the office, I stopped at the top, put the car in first gear...and the car - all by itself - started sliding. WEEEEEEEE! Thankfully, it slid correctly and in the right direction that I was able to stop perpendicular to the hill and drive in a back way into the office. Good times. If I wasn't 100% sure before, I am now... Robinson.
A View into my daily life
As if the blog isn't a view into my daily life.
3. Little Pink Duck - My little pink breast cancer duck. You can't tell, but it lights up. My friend Megan gave it to me last year in support of my Pink Issue and support of the breast cancer thing I was doing.
4. Pink Nano and speakers - PMDude isn't at work today so I get to plug the POC (Pod Of Crap) in and listen all day.
5. Blank picture frame - it's actually a digital frame. I only turn it on every now and then.
6. Pink Chevron Car - Susan G. Komen volunteer coordinator let me take this little car home. If you push down on the car as you push it along, the eyes move up and down. So cute.
7. Celebrate Courage coffee cup / pen holder - Blueberry gave me the cup last year. Not a big fan of it for coffee, but it does a kick ass job holding my pen collection ( which you'll notice also includes scissors and a nail file).
8. Behind all that poster: On Rainy Days. In it's entirety.
Generally speaking, I'm a neat speaking. I say "generally" because I've been known to be not OCD clean enough. I have piles of stuff that linger throughout the week. They may, or may not, be picked up on the weekend. It all depends on the plans. I am a firm believer that fun stuff should come before cleaning. The MomUnit would cringe to know that her Saturday morning required housecleaning ritual she tried to instill in me didn't keep. Though God knows she tried her best. Sorry Mom.
Anyhow, our sales VP will be in town next week. She's been here a number of times. Yet, for some unexplained reason, we've been asked to "clean" up a bit. My desk at work is almost always clean when I leave. A boss many moons ago at Boeing told me that you should always leave with your desk clean - people assume you've completed your work and you've got your act together. She added, "even if it means tossing piles into a drawer".
Since I knew I wouldn't have to clean my desk for the exec visit, I looked around at my desk and started giggling. This is not a desk of a professional. It does appear to be a desk of someone who needs help.
From left to right - let's review.
First - ignore the background. Those are cleaning supplies that I use to blow dirt out of my keyboard and to wipe down my monitor. Let's start with the blue ball on the left hand side.1. Instant Excuse ball - This past Christmas we had gag gifts at the holiday party. I wasn't able to stay the entire time so I didn't get to pick a gag gift. Instead, post party, the pointy-haired boss came around with the gifts. PMDude had the Instant Excuse Ball - so naturally to support my compadre I too needed one. It has great excuses like: Oprah, Car Trouble, I was mugged, Traffic was bad, full moon, amnesia, and my personal favorite: No Habla ingles.
2. Sarcastic Ball - the purple ball next to the blue ball is the Sarcastic Ball. PMDude ALSO has this one. I bought them for us last year because I laughed my ass off reading the responses. For example: Who Cares? , As if, Ask me if I care, Forget about it, and my favorite, Yeah, and I'm the pope.3. Little Pink Duck - My little pink breast cancer duck. You can't tell, but it lights up. My friend Megan gave it to me last year in support of my Pink Issue and support of the breast cancer thing I was doing.
4. Pink Nano and speakers - PMDude isn't at work today so I get to plug the POC (Pod Of Crap) in and listen all day.
5. Blank picture frame - it's actually a digital frame. I only turn it on every now and then.
6. Pink Chevron Car - Susan G. Komen volunteer coordinator let me take this little car home. If you push down on the car as you push it along, the eyes move up and down. So cute.
7. Celebrate Courage coffee cup / pen holder - Blueberry gave me the cup last year. Not a big fan of it for coffee, but it does a kick ass job holding my pen collection ( which you'll notice also includes scissors and a nail file).
8. Behind all that poster: On Rainy Days. In it's entirety.
9. Lamp danglers - you'll notice on the lamp two things: a starbucks mug and a body looking thing. The starbucks mug doubles as a Christmas ornament if one were to put such things on one's trees. The body dangler thingy is a cat. It's hands and feet have magnets n them...Blueberry again.
10. Honorable Mention: The Christmas wrap in the background. PMDude and I wrapped our door for Christmas. I wonder how long the wrap will stay in its current place. I'm better at least until April, or next Christmas.
Friday, January 16, 2009
In the space between sleep and sleeplessness
I swear, soon, very soon, I'm going to be able to fall asleep without any herbal assistance.
Not too surprising, but the move has been on my brain. Things are progressing nicely though and I think everything will fall into place. That's not what has me lying awake at night. No, I'm still putting my stuff together in the new place in my head. Calgon take me away! (and if you don't know that reference you're either 1) too young and I hate you or 2) from another country or planet).
Last night I tried a fantastic recipe and surprisingly enough it was low-cal. I haven't been posting recipes on this blog, but on my other one about cooking. But this recipe I think is one that should be posted on the blog that people actually read.
Grilled Honey Lime Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients:
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons honey
1 rounded teaspoon cumin (I didn't use cumin - not a big fan. I did, however, use some coriander instead. YUM!)
A handful cilantro, finely chopped, about 1/2 tablespoons
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, canola, or corn oil
4 (6 to 8-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breast (I used chicken cutlets because that's what I had on hand)
1 teaspoon grill seasoning blend or coarse salt and pepper
4 crusty rolls, split
Toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, and sliced avocado
I am not a big fan of these toppings so I bought a bag of cabbage slaw mix and used that. I gotta tell you people....that ROCKED the CASBAH! So crunchy and yummy.
Cilantro Mayo:
My own invention and not part of the recipe. But I love cilantro, like mayo - so why not put them together. A handful of cilantro chopped, 2 T or so of mayo, and a squeeze of 1/2 a lime. Mix those bad boys together and spread on your rolls. You won't be disappointed.
Directions
Combine first 5 ingredients in a small bowl. Sprinkle chicken with seasoning blend or salt and pepper. (I just added the grill seasoning to the bowl with the other ingredients.
Coat chicken in dressing and set aside for 10 minutes.
Grill chicken on a grill (Indoor or electric) 6 to 7 minutes on each side or pan fry over medium high heat in a large nonstick skillet uncovered 6 minutes per side.
Slice chicken breasts on an angle and pile meat roll bottoms. Top with either the recommended toppings, or my cabbage idea.
Chef Notes: I think this would be excellent in tortillas too. In fact, my dinner guest (no nothing serious, just a good GalPal from years gone by) suggested mixing the cilantro and lime in sour cream instead of mayo for the tortillas. I'm drooling just thinking about it.
What did I serve on the side you ask? Well, a broccoli salad of course. This salad as a number of variations that I add, but this is what I did last night. BTW - it holds up GREAT for a round two should you make too much and have left overs. Like you would if you were me, but you're not...I'm just sayin...
Broccoli Salad
Enough broccoli florets for how many people you're serving
Handful of shredded cheese of some sort (I used cheddar last night because that's what I had on hand)
Sprinkle of bacon bits
Handful of raisins, cranraisins, or anything like that.
I usually, but didn't last night, add a chopped apple or walnuts to this too.
Dressing: Simple Dijon Mustard vinaigrette: 1T Dijon, 1T sugar, 2T olive oil, 2T Rice vinegar (or any vinegar you like), minced a small onion or can use a shallot (which is better but I didn't have any of those.) Shake and pour over salad.
In other non food news, I'll be packing all weekend. My place and helping pack up the remaining articles of the landlords old place. I know you want to help.
Not too surprising, but the move has been on my brain. Things are progressing nicely though and I think everything will fall into place. That's not what has me lying awake at night. No, I'm still putting my stuff together in the new place in my head. Calgon take me away! (and if you don't know that reference you're either 1) too young and I hate you or 2) from another country or planet).
Last night I tried a fantastic recipe and surprisingly enough it was low-cal. I haven't been posting recipes on this blog, but on my other one about cooking. But this recipe I think is one that should be posted on the blog that people actually read.
Grilled Honey Lime Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients:
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons honey
1 rounded teaspoon cumin (I didn't use cumin - not a big fan. I did, however, use some coriander instead. YUM!)
A handful cilantro, finely chopped, about 1/2 tablespoons
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, canola, or corn oil
4 (6 to 8-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breast (I used chicken cutlets because that's what I had on hand)
1 teaspoon grill seasoning blend or coarse salt and pepper
4 crusty rolls, split
Toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, and sliced avocado
I am not a big fan of these toppings so I bought a bag of cabbage slaw mix and used that. I gotta tell you people....that ROCKED the CASBAH! So crunchy and yummy.
Cilantro Mayo:
My own invention and not part of the recipe. But I love cilantro, like mayo - so why not put them together. A handful of cilantro chopped, 2 T or so of mayo, and a squeeze of 1/2 a lime. Mix those bad boys together and spread on your rolls. You won't be disappointed.
Directions
Combine first 5 ingredients in a small bowl. Sprinkle chicken with seasoning blend or salt and pepper. (I just added the grill seasoning to the bowl with the other ingredients.
Coat chicken in dressing and set aside for 10 minutes.
Grill chicken on a grill (Indoor or electric) 6 to 7 minutes on each side or pan fry over medium high heat in a large nonstick skillet uncovered 6 minutes per side.
Slice chicken breasts on an angle and pile meat roll bottoms. Top with either the recommended toppings, or my cabbage idea.
Chef Notes: I think this would be excellent in tortillas too. In fact, my dinner guest (no nothing serious, just a good GalPal from years gone by) suggested mixing the cilantro and lime in sour cream instead of mayo for the tortillas. I'm drooling just thinking about it.
What did I serve on the side you ask? Well, a broccoli salad of course. This salad as a number of variations that I add, but this is what I did last night. BTW - it holds up GREAT for a round two should you make too much and have left overs. Like you would if you were me, but you're not...I'm just sayin...
Broccoli Salad
Enough broccoli florets for how many people you're serving
Handful of shredded cheese of some sort (I used cheddar last night because that's what I had on hand)
Sprinkle of bacon bits
Handful of raisins, cranraisins, or anything like that.
I usually, but didn't last night, add a chopped apple or walnuts to this too.
Dressing: Simple Dijon Mustard vinaigrette: 1T Dijon, 1T sugar, 2T olive oil, 2T Rice vinegar (or any vinegar you like), minced a small onion or can use a shallot (which is better but I didn't have any of those.) Shake and pour over salad.
In other non food news, I'll be packing all weekend. My place and helping pack up the remaining articles of the landlords old place. I know you want to help.
Monday, January 12, 2009
The trouble with moving….
I get no sleep. Every night I have good intentions to sleep. I do all the right things to prepare myself for sleep. I put on the PJs (which are most likely on the moment I walk in the door from work), brush the toofies, kick the cat, set the alarm, read a boring book, etc. Last night, I was pooped. Dead tired and ready for a nice long sleep (I was in bed by 8:30pm). At 11pm – still wide awake.
This weekend I spent a good amount of time in the new place helping to get it ready for move in. We painted, we moved stuff, we packed stuff, we threw stuff out, we moved more stuff, we cleaned, etc. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday worth of being in the condo. All the while I was dressing it with my eyes. Making visual mental notes so I could “think” about the move.
At home last night, I had all those visual mental notes slamming against my cerebrum trying desperately to form into some sort of sense. For example, cleaning the kitchen allowed me plenty of time to see the kitchen in all its glory. So last night, instead of sleeping, I planned the layout of where all my kitchen items would go. I moved items around in my head – arranging them to find the best configuration possible. When I think I finally have the perfect configuration, I remember another small detail and I have to start all over again.
This exercise was repeated for each room of the condo (it’s technically a townhouse, but condo is easier to type). The spare room: where to put the desk, where to put all the scrapbooking supplies, what about that corner, what should I put there…? And so on and so on.
By the time I fell asleep last night I think I had everything perfectly in place. Now if I could only remember.
Packing is going swimmingly. I'm 80% packed. Holding off packing the scrapbook supplies and the kitchen…although…there are several items in the kitchen I’m not likely to use so might as well pack them. The mover estimator guy is coming tonight to see how much crap he’ll be moving. Here’s hoping his estimate is decent.
In other very important news, I burned the last of the duraflame logs last night. The new place has a gas fireplace with a switch to flip it on. But here’s the funny part. The only reason I burned the last log last night was because I need to clean out the fireplace and didn’t want to waste a perfectly good duraflame. It’s a sickness. I know.
This weekend I spent a good amount of time in the new place helping to get it ready for move in. We painted, we moved stuff, we packed stuff, we threw stuff out, we moved more stuff, we cleaned, etc. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday worth of being in the condo. All the while I was dressing it with my eyes. Making visual mental notes so I could “think” about the move.
At home last night, I had all those visual mental notes slamming against my cerebrum trying desperately to form into some sort of sense. For example, cleaning the kitchen allowed me plenty of time to see the kitchen in all its glory. So last night, instead of sleeping, I planned the layout of where all my kitchen items would go. I moved items around in my head – arranging them to find the best configuration possible. When I think I finally have the perfect configuration, I remember another small detail and I have to start all over again.
This exercise was repeated for each room of the condo (it’s technically a townhouse, but condo is easier to type). The spare room: where to put the desk, where to put all the scrapbooking supplies, what about that corner, what should I put there…? And so on and so on.
By the time I fell asleep last night I think I had everything perfectly in place. Now if I could only remember.
Packing is going swimmingly. I'm 80% packed. Holding off packing the scrapbook supplies and the kitchen…although…there are several items in the kitchen I’m not likely to use so might as well pack them. The mover estimator guy is coming tonight to see how much crap he’ll be moving. Here’s hoping his estimate is decent.
In other very important news, I burned the last of the duraflame logs last night. The new place has a gas fireplace with a switch to flip it on. But here’s the funny part. The only reason I burned the last log last night was because I need to clean out the fireplace and didn’t want to waste a perfectly good duraflame. It’s a sickness. I know.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
And nothin's gonna stop me but divine intervention, I reckon it's again my turn to win some or learn some
Friday’s have a way about them. There never seems to be an in between Friday. It’s either boring as all hell or it’s as hectic as all get out. Today, was the latter. I knew yesterday that today was shaping up to be insane, but I didn’t really get a complete understanding of it until about 7:02 AM. At which point it was too late to call in sick. ( Side bar: There’s this guy in Starbucks – where I’m sitting waiting for a meeting to start – who’s wearing a cow shoes. And by that I mean, leather, of course, but with the Holstein cow pattern. Bizarre. I wonder if his wife bought them for him and said that they look good.) Right, so back to Friday. Today is only a precursor of how busy the weekend will be.
Oh, and the moment you've been waiting for. .... drum roll please.....
Jenn's 40th Birthday Party Pictures
Yah, sorry it took so long. I had - um - issues with the photos. I deleted them off the camera card before I moved them over to my hard drive. But thankfully I had already uploaded them to snapfish. Which then meant I had to order a CD...ugh.
Last night I met the Dane at the old Condo to put primer on the wall to prepare it to paint tomorrow. Then tomorrow, Blueberry is coming with me to paint the wall and spackle (that word always makes me laugh for some reason) any holes that might be left from nails. We will most likely help them pack some stuff up too. Which is good for me since I love, love, LOVE packing. It's a sickness. I know.
The apt is probably 60% packed. I’m holding off on the kitchen and scrapbookingmess room because – well I might need something there in the next three weeks. And as sure as I pack something I’ll need it. That’s how my life goes.
I’m also worried about the MomUnit – which takes up space in my head. My uncle is dying. The MomUnit is with him and sadly watching his downward spiral. Must be extremely hard to watch that. I can’t even imagine. On top of that, The MomUnit and the DadUnit visited the doctor. The DoctorUnit didn’t have anything good to report about the DadUnit. Not too surprising, but that just adds to the MomUnit’s stress which adds to mine. So happy thoughts in the MomUnit’s direction. Cuz if she’s happy, I’m happy. See how that works?
Other than that I intend to try to sleep in this weekend. Though my new upstairs neighbors are, I think, rabbits. At least they are practicing like they're rabbits. Stamina... I'm just sayin...
Oh, and the moment you've been waiting for. .... drum roll please.....
Jenn's 40th Birthday Party Pictures
Yah, sorry it took so long. I had - um - issues with the photos. I deleted them off the camera card before I moved them over to my hard drive. But thankfully I had already uploaded them to snapfish. Which then meant I had to order a CD...ugh.
Last night I met the Dane at the old Condo to put primer on the wall to prepare it to paint tomorrow. Then tomorrow, Blueberry is coming with me to paint the wall and spackle (that word always makes me laugh for some reason) any holes that might be left from nails. We will most likely help them pack some stuff up too. Which is good for me since I love, love, LOVE packing. It's a sickness. I know.
The apt is probably 60% packed. I’m holding off on the kitchen and scrapbooking
I’m also worried about the MomUnit – which takes up space in my head. My uncle is dying. The MomUnit is with him and sadly watching his downward spiral. Must be extremely hard to watch that. I can’t even imagine. On top of that, The MomUnit and the DadUnit visited the doctor. The DoctorUnit didn’t have anything good to report about the DadUnit. Not too surprising, but that just adds to the MomUnit’s stress which adds to mine. So happy thoughts in the MomUnit’s direction. Cuz if she’s happy, I’m happy. See how that works?
Other than that I intend to try to sleep in this weekend. Though my new upstairs neighbors are, I think, rabbits. At least they are practicing like they're rabbits. Stamina... I'm just sayin...
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Trivia
Part of the 40th Bday party was Jenn Trivia. I was shocked and stunned (not really) at who won. Blueberry wasn’t allowed to play – she knows too much. But Mr. Not So Newlyweds (formally mr. Stalemate formally Mr. Newlywed) won – he either pays attention, or can retain useless information better than anyone. I’m betting on the latter.
Anyhow, Jenn Trivia got me thinking about odd Jenn facts. I thought I’d make it a regular on the blog appearance, but then remembered I forget when I make things “regular”. So instead, you will get random useless odd facts whenever I think of them (and remember to post about them). Lucky!
Jenn Odd Fact # 467
Said to PM Dude today...
Jenn: “Did you ever see the “choppin brocahlee” skit on Saturday Night Live?”
PMDUDE: “Yes.”
Jenn: “Well, every time I eat broccoli I say “choppin brocahlee” in my head.”
Jenn Odd Fact #113
Whenever someone says Albuquerque I spell it in my head A.L.B.U.Q.U.E.R.Q.U.E. We lived in Albuquerque and it seems it was one of the first words I learned and learned how to spell.
Jenn Odd Fact #42
I can't wink both my eyes separately. It's a genetic flaw. I'm sure of it.
Anyhow, Jenn Trivia got me thinking about odd Jenn facts. I thought I’d make it a regular on the blog appearance, but then remembered I forget when I make things “regular”. So instead, you will get random useless odd facts whenever I think of them (and remember to post about them). Lucky!
Jenn Odd Fact # 467
Said to PM Dude today...
Jenn: “Did you ever see the “choppin brocahlee” skit on Saturday Night Live?”
PMDUDE: “Yes.”
Jenn: “Well, every time I eat broccoli I say “choppin brocahlee” in my head.”
Jenn Odd Fact #113
Whenever someone says Albuquerque I spell it in my head A.L.B.U.Q.U.E.R.Q.U.E. We lived in Albuquerque and it seems it was one of the first words I learned and learned how to spell.
Jenn Odd Fact #42
I can't wink both my eyes separately. It's a genetic flaw. I'm sure of it.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
The Art of the Move
The moving process has begun. My apartment is full of musty old boxes, just waiting for me to fill them with all my belongings. I love moving! Anyone who’s know me for more than 5 years knows that moving is built into my genes. It’s part of who I am. It’s like an alarm clock goes off every 3 years or so (it used to go off a lot more often). I must be part gypsy.
Houston
New Jersey
Albuquerque
Minot
Great Falls – we lived in 4 different places in GF (Maybe 5). I went to 4 different schools for my third grade year.
Lancaster – 3 different places
Redmond
Tasis (I’m not counting Saudi Arabia here since that was part of TASIS – though it was still a move)
Pullman – 4 different places
Guadalajara
Redmond
Bellevue
Kent
Renton
Home to Redmond with Mom and Dad for 6 months
Bellevue
Renton – Two different places
Bellevue
Kirkland
Bellevue – two different places this time
Lynnwood
And finally back to Redmond
This will be my 31st Move! I’m sure I’m missing one or two somewhere. But that’s quite a list in 40 years. That’s and average of 1.29 yrs in one place.
I have several friends who have asked why I move so much. When I mention I’m moving to people I get a mixed reaction. Some are like, “Wow, again?” Others are not surprised at all. And still others feel the need to ask, “Why?” and that is usually followed with, “I hate to move.”
So I started thinking about it. Why do I like to move? I could blame the list above – I was an military brat for the first several years of my life. And anyone who’s father or mother was in the military knows you move a lot. There were always boxes we just didn’t unpack – there wasn’t a need. I got used to not getting very comfortable in one place. And as sure as you did get comfortable, you’d hear the news – we were moving.
Moving around so much as a kid, I believe, made it very easy for me to make friends. I do remember as a kid not wanting to become too good of friends with anyone because, well, we’d be moving. In Lancaster is where I felt that finally we would be staying put in the same city at least for some time. We were in Lancaster for 10 years. And when I think about where “home” might be, Lancaster is usually the first to come to mind. It was where I was molded into who I am today. It was most my teenage years. It was where I met some of my still bestest friends. It was where heartache first touched me. It was where we lost Grandpa Spaid (not as is we lost him and don’t know where he is, but more he passed away). It was where I gained a new dad and three new step-brothers (BigBro being one of them). It was where I tried smoking for the first time and just about choked to death. It was where I got in some of the biggest trouble I’ve ever been in. It was where God became a big part of my life. It was where I learned to twirl a rifle, and march in step. It was, in my mind, home.
Then we moved.
And now Seattle and its surrounding cities/towns is my home. And moving around Seattle has been my pastime. I’ve had several roommates – some of whom I would prefer to never see again (not you Blueberry). But I’ve lived the most by myself. And I like that. I own what the big black beast of burden allows me to own in my domain. And now I’m packing again. Packing up items that have become the definition of my adult life.
Boxes scatter the apartment. Items are carefully packed waiting for a spot in their new home. Many things are being discarded – used and no longer needed. I’m a big fan of getting rid of things. I’d rather pass them on then pack them and take them with me. But I’m at that very odd phase of packing. It’s too early to pack everything – and I can guarantee once something is packed, I’ll need it. And yet I can’t wait to pack because I hate last minute packing chaos. So I’m trying to be very systematic about my packing. And yes, for those who know me, we’ll have a color coding system to indicate what floor or room the boxes should go into.
And so in three weeks I’ll be unpacking and putting my belongings into new locations, new homes. I’ll be spending the month of February trying to remember where I unpacked something and where it might make most sense to go instead. Unpacking is my favorite part. It’s all new, fresh, changed.
Houston
New Jersey
Albuquerque
Minot
Great Falls – we lived in 4 different places in GF (Maybe 5). I went to 4 different schools for my third grade year.
Lancaster – 3 different places
Redmond
Tasis (I’m not counting Saudi Arabia here since that was part of TASIS – though it was still a move)
Pullman – 4 different places
Guadalajara
Redmond
Bellevue
Kent
Renton
Home to Redmond with Mom and Dad for 6 months
Bellevue
Renton – Two different places
Bellevue
Kirkland
Bellevue – two different places this time
Lynnwood
And finally back to Redmond
This will be my 31st Move! I’m sure I’m missing one or two somewhere. But that’s quite a list in 40 years. That’s and average of 1.29 yrs in one place.
I have several friends who have asked why I move so much. When I mention I’m moving to people I get a mixed reaction. Some are like, “Wow, again?” Others are not surprised at all. And still others feel the need to ask, “Why?” and that is usually followed with, “I hate to move.”
So I started thinking about it. Why do I like to move? I could blame the list above – I was an military brat for the first several years of my life. And anyone who’s father or mother was in the military knows you move a lot. There were always boxes we just didn’t unpack – there wasn’t a need. I got used to not getting very comfortable in one place. And as sure as you did get comfortable, you’d hear the news – we were moving.
Moving around so much as a kid, I believe, made it very easy for me to make friends. I do remember as a kid not wanting to become too good of friends with anyone because, well, we’d be moving. In Lancaster is where I felt that finally we would be staying put in the same city at least for some time. We were in Lancaster for 10 years. And when I think about where “home” might be, Lancaster is usually the first to come to mind. It was where I was molded into who I am today. It was most my teenage years. It was where I met some of my still bestest friends. It was where heartache first touched me. It was where we lost Grandpa Spaid (not as is we lost him and don’t know where he is, but more he passed away). It was where I gained a new dad and three new step-brothers (BigBro being one of them). It was where I tried smoking for the first time and just about choked to death. It was where I got in some of the biggest trouble I’ve ever been in. It was where God became a big part of my life. It was where I learned to twirl a rifle, and march in step. It was, in my mind, home.
Then we moved.
And now Seattle and its surrounding cities/towns is my home. And moving around Seattle has been my pastime. I’ve had several roommates – some of whom I would prefer to never see again (not you Blueberry). But I’ve lived the most by myself. And I like that. I own what the big black beast of burden allows me to own in my domain. And now I’m packing again. Packing up items that have become the definition of my adult life.
Boxes scatter the apartment. Items are carefully packed waiting for a spot in their new home. Many things are being discarded – used and no longer needed. I’m a big fan of getting rid of things. I’d rather pass them on then pack them and take them with me. But I’m at that very odd phase of packing. It’s too early to pack everything – and I can guarantee once something is packed, I’ll need it. And yet I can’t wait to pack because I hate last minute packing chaos. So I’m trying to be very systematic about my packing. And yes, for those who know me, we’ll have a color coding system to indicate what floor or room the boxes should go into.
And so in three weeks I’ll be unpacking and putting my belongings into new locations, new homes. I’ll be spending the month of February trying to remember where I unpacked something and where it might make most sense to go instead. Unpacking is my favorite part. It’s all new, fresh, changed.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Someday I'll wear pajamas in the daytime...
Welcome to your 40's. The 40's came in like a lion for this girl.
The Peanut Gallery : Brian, Kathy, Jackie, Bob, Margo, Janet, Mark, Vanessa, Julie, Ric, Sherrie, Jenn Suzie, Jo, Mark, Mike and Nancy.
The evening started with decorating and helping put together the tasty treats. I had to "test" each and every treat we were going to offer the guests. And I can say with 100% certainty that each and every offering was DELICIOUS! We had shrimpees, hummus, olive tapenade, meat/cheese tray, vegi's, baby quiches, and German Chocolate Cake cupcakes. MMM MMM Good.
Everyone played Jenn Trivia - Mike was the winner. Scary that he knows that much abut me. I guess I'll have to take care of him in the event I run for office. His prize? A 4 course meal at the exclusive Chez Jenn's. He's one lucky guy. Blueberry came up with some excellent questions that had a few friends stopping and saying things like, "Wow" and "really?" and "OMG are you serious?"
I drank some cosmos and then some water...cuz being 40 now you have to be sure to hydrate.
And so in the end, I'm 40. Ready to take on this decade with passion, grace and style.
Oh and one more thing...it's !@#$%^&* snowing again!
Last night was the big party. Everyone who was anyone (or who didn't have other plans) were there.
The evening started with decorating and helping put together the tasty treats. I had to "test" each and every treat we were going to offer the guests. And I can say with 100% certainty that each and every offering was DELICIOUS! We had shrimpees, hummus, olive tapenade, meat/cheese tray, vegi's, baby quiches, and German Chocolate Cake cupcakes. MMM MMM Good.
Everyone played Jenn Trivia - Mike was the winner. Scary that he knows that much abut me. I guess I'll have to take care of him in the event I run for office. His prize? A 4 course meal at the exclusive Chez Jenn's. He's one lucky guy. Blueberry came up with some excellent questions that had a few friends stopping and saying things like, "Wow" and "really?" and "OMG are you serious?"
I drank some cosmos and then some water...cuz being 40 now you have to be sure to hydrate.
And so in the end, I'm 40. Ready to take on this decade with passion, grace and style.
Oh and one more thing...it's !@#$%^&* snowing again!
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Cheers to 2009!
Welcome to the first blog of 2009. This year I think will be a great one. At least that's my plan. All those out there who plan on making it not a great year for me - go away! You're not welcome here! That means you! Right there - the one up front! Leave!
There - now that we cleared out the riff-raff let's get down to the celebrations. Fondue part dos at Chez Jenn's last night. I cheated with the cheese fondue and bought it already made - that being said it was - IMHO - delicious. Surprisingly so. We had about a half of cup left so I think everyone else thought it was good too. Dessert fondue was Toblerone - omg so good! It was almost a sin to eat it. We had apples, pound cake, marshmallows; and pecan Sandies for dipping. Blueberry brought some homemade caramels she had - we dipped them too...delicious.
We started the celebration around 7 and took it will into the evening. In attendance - Claudia & Chris (not pictured); me; Mark & Vanessa; Sherrie; Margo & Bob. We did the obligatory catching up; eating; drinking; cheering; and photo taking. Bring on 2009.
Today I'm catching up on cleaning - what a mess new year's eve makes. Tomorrow I have to go back to work. That will be weird to go into the office. I've not actually been "in" the office since the 17th of December. Huh - hope I remember where I sit.
I think I mentioned in a previous post that my New Year's "theme" this year will be 40 New things! I've already started making a list. If you've got something new you think I should try - send it my way. I'll consider it!
This weekend is the big birthday gala - more food and more drink. I can't wait. It should be a blast to be at a party I didn't do any planning for. I can't remember the last time I had a party that I didn't plan! So watch this space - you may see some photos!