Grosgrain Garage

So, every four weeks I'll just take a picture of myself in the office loos and then we'll call it a blog, mm'kay?

2012-01-27T13:18:00.003-06:00

So I got dressed yesterday and then half way through the day I decided I looked like a soccer mom. I could be nothing further from that. I don't like soccer, I don't drive a mini van and I kind of hate kids. Well, not hate, but really, they are sticky little creatures.

The soccer mom uniform: french walnut khakis and navy monogrammed cardy, Lands' End; blue and white striped oxford, Ralph Lauren, "clambake" d-ring belt, Vineyard Vines. What you can't see are coordinating blue and brown argyle socks and ballet flats.

(Before you chastise me, let me just say I NEVER button down my collars on button down shirts! Looks too mannish for my taste.)

(BTW, clothes laid out on bed before I put them on

make for a perfectly delightful cuddle spot!)

Happy New Year

2012-01-06T20:44:00.002-06:00

Brand new year, same ol' preppy.

(office loos – Jan. 6, 2012)

Copycat Craft

2011-12-16T19:42:00.001-06:00

I saw these two crafts on Pinterest and I just knew I could make them myself! I adjusted the originals ever so slightly.

First are these sweet woodland creature felt ornaments for an ornament exchange I participated in.

And second, I am in LOVE with this gingerbread man/heart garland I have hanging over one of my doorways.

I just love working with felt… it's so easy and versatile and contributes to that country Christmas style I'm rocking this year.

Pre-packing

2011-11-27T12:35:00.000-06:00

I just spent the morning pre-packing for my trip. Oh! I didn't tell you already? Well, at the end of the week, Audra and I are making our second annual pilgrimage to the sun to start off the winter right!

Here's what I'm planning on packing, all nicely organized and laid out, without making a mess and taking up room in my little flat. I got the idea of doing this from Pinterest and it's a stroke of genius. By just doing simple little sketches (I'm no artist, believe me!) I could clearly see what was missing, what color shoes needed to be included and I have a handy little checklist for when it's time to put it all in the suitcase.

Here's the whole week's worth of stuff mapped out on two pieces of notebook paper. (The scale is so out of whack, it makes me laugh. The big caftans are smaller than my capri pants and the bras look like they'd fit on Monkey – who himself is proportionately gigantic!)

Next is a close up of the shirt section. Right after this illustration is a picture of some of the actual clothing pieces I pulled from storage buckets this morning so you can see that you don't have to be able to draw to do this. Just getting the essence of an item is enough.

(Yeah, yeah… I know I need to iron. They've been packed away for a couple months!)

I have two maillot suits (one navy, one black) plus some coordinating tops and bottoms for tankinis. That'll cover me for a week in the sun for sure!

I actually said to myself as I was doing this "If I have to narrow it down to only five pairs of Bonannos, it's going to be impossible!" But once I colored in all the other clothes, I saw that these five (along with two pairs of flip flops and plain black ballet flats) will cover me off with everything I have. (What? 8 pairs of shoes is a perfectly reasonable amount for a week's trip!)

And of course, I can't forget my most important travel accessory… the Mayan Riviera will be another brand new destination for my world traveller!

Shopping embargo addendum

2011-11-25T21:55:00.000-06:00

Add to the "allowed" list: Food Network Magazine

If I can't have that, my life has no meaning.

Cupcakes for Two (or two cupcakes for one)

2011-11-15T22:05:00.001-06:00

I got this recipe from Pinterest, but it originally comes from here. These little smackerels are so good and like I said on Twitter, if you only make two, you can only eat two! Win win.

Forbidden Fruit

2011-11-09T16:43:00.001-06:00

You know how they say dieters dream of cookies and chicken legs and ice cream and pizzas? Well, last night I had a dream I was in the L.L.Bean flagship store in Freeport, ME and all I could think about was buying a canoe.

Coincidence?

I think not.

First Temptation

2011-11-04T14:36:00.000-05:00

I'm probably pathetic to already feel a twinge after only four days. I'm weak, I tell you!!!

When I pulled up the website and saw that it was on SALE my inner voice of justification went into overdrive!!! It's more than a third the original price! But just like the late great Amy Winehouse said about going to rehab, about this I say NO! NO! NO!

Lands' End Beach Living Sweetheart Tunic Swimsuit top in Pink… would have been lovely on my upcoming trip to the Mayan Riviera…

click on image to be brought to the web page… it really is an incredible deal.

Sigh…

Final Purchase

2011-11-03T16:50:00.000-05:00

So, my final purchase arrived in the mail today. Here's the receipt to verify the order date was well before November 1… (Don't think I didn't go a little nutso in preparation for this challenge. The last couple of weeks have had the UPS guy at the office a lot!)

I opened the box happily, taking in every moment of anticipation. This thrill was going to have to last me a looooong time!

I opened it up knowing a silver puffy car coat from Lands' End would be in the box, but I was surprised to also see a oatmeal heather professor cardigan. (tsk tsk… black out shopper)

I think this coat will be so much fun this winter. I'm a little bummed I didn't have the wherewithal to pick up some coordinating silver moon boots before my Nov. 1 cut off date!

I was sorry to see a coupon included in the box that had to be used before Nov. 30th. But I gave it to Audra; she's my friend and someone might as well benefit from my crazy quest!

Mmmmm … moon boots…

NO! NO! NO!

The Challenge

2011-11-01T18:48:00.000-05:00

365 days; no shopping.

If you remember, it was November 2009 that I quit smoking and I'm still going strong with that. And it's because of nothing but sheer willpower and stubbornness. I thought November was a good time to work on another personal vice: senseless shopping. I feel like November is my lucky month.

I don't know if I can do it, but I'm gonna try. I went over the idea with Kiirsten a couple weeks ago and we worked out some basic guidelines. Here they are:

ALLOWED

Things for basic survival and things that are consumable/have finite life span

Food (cat and human)

Hygiene supplies

Cleaning supplies

Make-up

Personal services (pedis, haircuts, massages, cleaning lady)

Books (Kindle only)

Glasses/Contact Lenses

Entertainment (movies, going out, traveling etc.)

Gifts for others

NOT ALLOWED

Things that accumulate and I currently have plenty of

Clothes

Shoes

Housewares

Craft supplies

Magazines

DVDs

Books

Furniture

Decorations

Jewelry

Cat toys

Music downloads

App downloads

Movie/TV downloads

EXCEPTIONS: I've given Kiirsten power of attorney on the exception list but basically I can stray from the "not allowed" list if…
I run out of something and need to replenish (i.e. needlepoint canvas, quilting batting, etc.)
I lose something I absolutely need (i.e. winter gloves)

So there you have it… I just want to add that this is not about not spending money. I cleaned out my closets a few weeks ago and after filling TWO garbage bags with donations, I still have overflow. I've been really turned off recently with the glorification of people who are so garish with spending and who have no sense of humility. This is about showing myself that I don't need need need … that I can do without sometimes and that I am so fortunate with exactly what I have right this minute.

Will I whine? Probably.
Will I feel so sad if I can't buy a new pair of sandals or a new cashmere sweater? Probably.
Will I be proud of myself if I actually succeed? Absolutely.

I'll keep you posted on the highs and the lows. (And if you want to join me, drop me a line…).

Halloween Decorations

2011-10-27T19:26:00.000-05:00

I've been enjoying my decorations so much, I'm sad that Halloween season is almost over. Next year, I definitely decorate first week of October!

Happy Halloween, everyone!

Scary Boo!

2011-10-15T11:57:00.000-05:00

I don't know when it happened and I don't know if it's official, but it is in my world. So, I hereby declare that purple and green (when paired with black and orange) are official colors of Halloween!

Do you remember this cute wall hanging banner I embroidered last year?

Well, last night, I made a complimentary rag wreath and I just love it!!!

All you need is a wire hanger and a bunch of scrap fabric. So for me, it was a $0.00 craft. All it cost was a piece of 7-layer bar (recipe here – OMG) given to my neighbor in exchange for a wire hanger. What? You know me better than to think I keep wire hangers in the house!!!

NO WIRE HANGERS!!!

Here's the über simple instructions…

I think today's going to be a day of house decorating for Halloween. I haven't done my usual autumn decor yet this year because up until a couple of days ago, it was still like summer in Winnipeg. I want to head to Michaels crafts to pick up some supplies to make a coordinating "Trick or Treat" bunting and maybe some felt pumpkins or ghosts or other cute things. I'll post pics when it's all up!

In the meantime, the final SCARY news for today: I've joined Tout. Best way to explain it: Twitter but with video. You post 15-second video clips of whatever you want. My social network addiction honestly knows no bounds. If you want to check it out, here's the link to my page. It takes some pretty big marbles to post video of oneself so freely though, so I'm not sure this one's gonna stick!

Boo!

I Love Technology

2011-09-09T22:30:00.000-05:00

Just trying the new Blogger iPhone app.

So here's a quick update. I'm at home this Friday night having the time of my life because I discovered today that all 12 seasons of 'Murder She Wrote' is available on Netflix! I've just finished part one of the pilot. It's very suspenseful!

I spent some time in the police station today. To find out why, you should be following me on Twitter, but the picture below is a quick shot I took when I was leaving.

Okey doke - back to Jessica Fletcher.

If this app works, expect more frequent posts. Yay!!!

Wrist Party

2011-08-29T00:01:00.000-05:00

Ever since Mel posted this article on Twitter last week, I've been obsessed with the style statement I like to call a Wrist Party. (My favorite samples in that photo essay are #7 and #19.)

Usually I just wear a watch and Tiffany bracelet on the left arm and in the summer add a turk's head knot bracelet or similar on the right. But this new trend is great and I just love the idea of being a little more "blingy"! So, I went out on Friday night and picked up some supplies to get my crafty on to create some fun, wrist adornments that are just my style! Here's the pile sitting on my bedside table on a copy of Pride and Prejudice. (unread)

My left wrist has my trusty stainless steel TAG Heuer watch, a Tiffany heart tag bracelet that was a gift from my friend Mary-Lea, and a Swarovski crystal toggle bracelet that was a gift from my friend Jacqueline.

On my right wrist, I'm sporting three of the bracelets I made this weekend. On top is an embroidery string, friendship-style, chevron bracelet in pink, green and white that I surprisingly still remembered how to make from years ago! I attached it to a silver link chain to make it a little less summer camp-ish. Next is an add-a-bead bracelet with green glass and pink rhinestone beads on braided leather, and finally a toggle faux-pearl bracelet. I just love how fresh and summery this looks!

So what's next for my Wrist Party? I suppose I'm going to have to work on a couple other little trinkets to transition into the autumn, but for now, this little assortment is just perfect. And of course, if the manufacturers of the real baubles ever make their bracelets in variable sizes (damn my gargantuan wrists!) I might just be tempted to pick up one of these or these… Ooooo la la!

Hey!

2011-08-23T00:40:00.000-05:00

I haven't forgotten about you, Dear Grosgrain Garage. I'm just caught up in a million things right now. Truth be told, I've been most consumed with Pinterest, Twitter and this summer's reality TV offerings, so there's not a lot of any great interest to share.

If the shoe fits…

2011-08-09T14:58:00.009-05:00

Every now and then I get a little disappointed in myself that I've tossed my personal guidelines aside. Let me explain. I loathe when people are boastful or lack humility, and I realize there's the distinct possibility that yesterday's post, the Bonanno-o-rama, or any like it, may come off as boastful.

So first and foremost, let me offer my most sincere apology. I truly don't mean to be garish and offensive.

And second… let me tell you a little ditty that I think might shed some light on the situation.

. . .

When I was a little girl (oh… it always starts like that, doesn't it?) I had the most difficult time fitting into shoes. Three, four, five years old and we could never just go to the department store to pick up a cute pair of Mary Janes or Saddle Shoes. I had all these sweet little dresses and nothing equally sweet to wear them with.

I had to go to "The Special Shoe Store."

I'm not kidding. I had to go to a specialty (read: freak) store to get shoes because my feet were so ridiculously wide. I still remember them being ~~judged~~ measured in that metal foot measure-y thing and the sales man yelling out like a carnival barker "Triple E"! (Maybe he didn't yell, but it sure sounded like it to my humiliated, little five-year-old ears.)

EEE!!!

Needless to say, this was horribly embarrassing. Big Foot Leesie. That's what they called me. Okay, they didn't really call me that, but I betcha they would have if they'd known I was three and a half feet tall with Triple E width feet! So I had to wear those uggo Buster Brown shoes for "special" kids with "special" feet from the "special" store. I hated them.

(See those red ones in row 2 up there? I had those. They were horrid. And the white high-top ones that look like Doc Martens? Yeah, I had those too! Ugh.)

Parenthetically, I also hated the cable knit leotards mommy made me wear because they sagged at the crotch and they hurt my chubby thighs as they rubbed together. But this is not a story of the scars I bear because of those repulsive leotards. It's about the feet. The big big big feet.

. . .

Later on in my so very sad life, I had a smashing pair of white wellies just like my mom's. I was eight or nine years old, and believe it or not, mommy's wellies were a size smaller than mine. One day, I had mistakenly put hers on instead of mine, with bare feet no less, and when it came time to come in from playing in the puddles, I couldn't get them off!

My big fat feet were suctioned right into the damn boots and there was no budging them. I tugged and pulled and stretched, yet all I did was discover another way to make a farting sound. The boots were S.T.U.C.K. stuck. I cried and cried, "Get them off meeeeeee!"

I'm sorry to report those boots met their tragic end that day when my mom had to literally cut them off with scissors to free me from my self-imposed pedalian, rubber prison.

. . .

Flash forward with me now to the year 2006 and the day my world changed. I was practically wearing cardboard cereal boxes tied to my feet when I read about a sandal company in Florida that made the most delightful, handmade, leather footwear. Not only was the product beautiful and affordable, it was – excuse me whilst I choke back the tears a moment – custom made to fit.

Do you understand what I'm saying here? Custom. Made. To. Fit.

I swear to you, it was like for the first time in my life I was one of the cool kids. I could be part of the gang. They could no longer laugh at me and point at the hideous, flapping monstrosities pulsating and oozing at the end of my legs. They wouldn't throw stones at me anymore. I no longer had to wear UGGs to church in the summer!

Yep that's my story. Stephen Bonanno Sandals offered me everything I ever wanted in footwear. Surely one can forgive me for being a tad over indulgent in the pursuit of happy feet?

Linnaria with Silver Palm Beach Classics, August 9, 2011

. . .

Epilogue
In the winter I wear one of two pairs of ballet flats, or one of three pairs of UGGs. That's all I have. That's all I wear.

Another Chapter in the Story of My Sickness

2011-08-08T12:17:00.002-05:00

Well, I got a few new pairs of Stephen Bonanno Sandals this summer; they just arrived on Friday. Here are my new colors, clockwise from top: regal blue (navy) and white, silver iguana and silver, linnaria (hot pink) and pomme, purple ruffle and lavender, corn thistle (yellow) and white, linnaria and silver. (Two bright pinks? Yes. I like me some pink!!!)

And the whole dang lot of them spread out on my bed. I think my rainbow is finally complete. Maybe it's time to slow down.

I went out on Sunday searching for a shoe holder that would accommodate all 30 pairs, but alas, I only came up with a 24 holder. Like I said on Twitter, I guess the manufacturers believe that once a person gets to two dozen of any item they've got enough! Silly silly silly.

Stephen Bonanno Sandals is bar none, the best, most fun, versatile, quality, well-made, preppy summer shoe around. And I gladly, once again bestow upon them my undying love. Get yours here!

Just a Giggle

2011-08-01T11:39:00.000-05:00

It's a long weekend holiday Monday here today and then I'm back to work tomorrow after 2 glorious weeks off. Give me strength!

Bachelorette Fans… Discuss

2011-07-29T00:57:00.001-05:00

Jillian Harris in 2009 and 2011 respectively…

Nose job? Lip injections? Brow lift?

Sailor's Knot Bracelet

2011-07-28T09:54:00.001-05:00

I picked up a new skill from Pinterest this week. I learned how to make these great bracelets… it was a bit challenging for my pea brain, but I eventually figured it out and now I have some cute summer accessories to show for it.

Original tutorial found here and supplemental tutorial I used (I told you: pea brain) found here.

Next on the agenda… learn to make these Turk's Head coasters. SWOON!!!

The Mask

2011-07-27T07:22:00.001-05:00

Before:

When not in use, this is kept in the fridge so it's super cool and refreshing to put on.

Now would be a great time to go rob a bank or audition as a mummy in a Halloween pageant.

A straw is crucial equipment for beverage ingestion during the process!

Ta dah!

I don't know if it made a difference, but it sure is a fun way to kill half an hour!

Third Day of Holiday: Wordless Edition

2011-07-22T00:01:00.003-05:00

Champs!

2011-07-21T00:01:00.005-05:00

This made me laugh as I was pulling out of Polo Park mall yesterday…

Look closely; you'll see what I saw…

That's right! Manitoba… 12 years running, "Slurpee Capital of the World!'

Florida has its oranges. Idaho has its potatoes. Wisconsin has its cheese. San Francisco sour dough, Chicago deep dish pizza, Montreal poutine. Every geographical location has its associated culinary delicacy. I could go on and on. But Manitoba? We're the number one consumers of drinkable, flavored ice!

So proud. So so proud.

Slllllluuuuurrrppp!

My First Day of Holiday

2011-07-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

I had to get out of the house before 9am on my first day of holiday because Tuesday is cleaning lady day. I decided to drive to a nearby park to cop a squat and read. After trying one location in the English Garden (too many people) I moved on to this quiet field of clover.

I copped a squat in my camp chair under a tree and within a few minutes I noticed something in the distance…

I couldn't believe I was so close to a real, live deer! It definitely noticed me and heard the click click of my phone as I snapped a few photos. So cool!

I ended up lying on a towel on the ground and kicking my feet up on the chair and started reading. I think I'll pick up a cushion for a chaise lounge if I'm going to do this again. That ground is hard!

I wanted to take a little nap, but then my imagination got the better of me. 1. What if the deer comes back and bites my toes? and 2. What if a murderer comes out of the bushes and rapes or kills me? Basically, I forced myself to stay awake.

It was getting quite toasty outside, so at around noon, I left the park and headed off to the pool for a refreshing swim. I did 40 minutes. Michael Phelps, eat your heart out!

Then it was off to lunch… a sirloin salad with goat cheese crostini. Mmmm!

The day heated up to ONE HUNDRED DEGREES!!! Winnipeg is such a funny city. Our temperature goes from one extreme to another. From 100°F in the summer to -40°F in the winter. What?!

I got home at around 4:30, filled a bowl with some delicious kettle corn and relaxed in the beautiful air conditioning with my excellent book.

I took a second shower for the day and after I got out, brushed my hair and put it in these silly Princess Leia buns.

I ended the day with some couch surfing, TV, Twitter, Pinterest and a delicious dinner of penne baked with hot Italian sausage, smoked bacon and Calabrese in marinara sauce topped with four cheeses. (ordered in… too hot to cook).

It was a pretty perfect day.

2011-07-19T00:01:00.002-05:00

Are you on Pinterest yet? If not, you should be!

It's another wonderful time-sucking social media tool on the Internet with a twist. Pinterest a virtual pin board where you can catalog and keep all the fun things you come across on the web, be it a recipe, a DIY project, a decorating theme, a pair of shoes, a hair-do, or even pictures of a vacation destination. Create theme boards for parties or put together a virtual scrapbook of inspirational words.

If you see something you like whilst perusing the Internet, you "pin it" on one of your boards (membership gives you a tool to add an easy pin function to your browser menu bar) and you add a caption or note on the pin. The beauty is once the item is on your board, it's shared with all your followers and the image itself serves as a link back to its original source website.

People with similar interests and tastes share items they like or want or have. If you see a pin you like on someone else's board, you can repin it to a board of your own! I'm telling you, it's the most fun ever and makes the Internet even more accessible to like minded virtual friends.

It's a great inspiration resource as well. There are some super creative people out there in Internetland. I'm always in awe of all the great ideas people have and share with the world.

Here's a single pin sample…

Have a look at my boards. Here's the link. And if you want an invitation to join, leave me your email address in the comments and I'll send you one! The more the merrier.

Happy pinning.

Black Out

2011-07-18T00:01:00.002-05:00

I whined and whined on Twitter on Saturday night/Sunday morning because we had a power outage. Truth be told, I'm not totally over the trauma yet.

It was a brutally hot day Saturday and that evening I was working on a little sewing project. My craft room is not air conditioned, so I'd developed up a bit of a glisten (i.e. sweating like a sow.) At around 11:30, I decided to take a quick shower before I went to bed.

I was in the shower no more than a minute and all of a sudden … vzzzzzmmmmph … the power went out! Picture it: me, nudiepants, wet, in the flippin' dark. Needless to say, I was a bit freaked. I had no flashlight (why would I have a flashlight in the shower?) so I ran out of the bathroom, still wet, still au naturel, searching for my iPhone to light the way to a pair of jeans and a t-shirt.

I was confused and disoriented (and truth be told, a little drunk) and it was really dark. The entire neighborhood was black! No street lights, no traffic lights, nada. I was super scary. After speaking to Rebecca on the phone, it occurred to me to light some candles and just relax.

So that's what I did.

Paris hung out with me, lying on the coffee table, and I only smelled burning fur for a split second when she got a little too curious! I had fun on my iPhone on Twitter and Words With Friends, watching the battery charge slowly decrease until I'd finally be completely cut off from the outside world. I didn't sleep well – the emergency fire alarm system in the house beeped constantly for eight annoying hours – and it was still really warm in the house. The power finally came back on at about 8:30 in the morning.

I went out on Sunday and picked up a battery powered lantern, three mini push lights and a book light. Now if I can just find an air conditioner that runs without electricity too!

Addicted

2011-07-15T22:37:00.000-05:00

This is what my messy desk has looked like for the past three days…

You see, the Winnipeg Fringe Festival is going on in the Market Square directly beside my office and one of the food kiosks is Gramma's Kettle Korn. Holy moly!!! It is the most delicious salty sweet snack I've ever had. Sheer snack perfection. (So much so, this grammar snob even forgives ol' Gramma for misspelling "corn"!)

Thank goodness the festival is only on for a few more days. My popcorn consumption has been at maximum capacity.

Oh Gramma! I do love you.

WANTED:

2011-07-14T22:33:00.000-05:00

One airline ticket and accommodations at the Four Seasons Bora Bora, please. I'm available to leave as of July 19th; don't need to be back until August 2nd.

Thanks a bunch!

Double Trouble

2011-07-13T21:51:00.000-05:00

When I got to work this morning I declared it "Madras Week" on Twitter after realizing I had worn the preppy staple fabric three days in a row. Upon reading my tweet, Lauren thought it was because I had seen what she was wearing. When I went around to corner to her office a little later in the morning, I made a fun discovery.

We were practically wearing the same thing! Madras tops, cardis, jeans and Bonannos. (Lauren is wearing the gold palm beach classics that I had given her last year; I'm in my old navy Emma classic monograms.)

For me, someone who went to private school and wore a uniform for so many years, wearing samesies now is always a kick. I made sure Kiirsten snapped a pic of our sartorial coincidence.

I love it! Maybe I should recommend a company uniform at the next management meeting!

Two New Things

2011-07-12T19:08:00.000-05:00

The other day I wanted to wear khaki pants and I thought they'd look perfect with a pale pink cardigan and white tee. Only problem… I didn't have one. L.L.Bean to the rescue! And since I've been loving my navy French sailor's shirt so much, I figured I might as well throw a red one in the shopping cart too. I've been looking high and low for a white with red one, but for now, I settled on red with white.

You might think it's nuts to order long sleeves and sweaters in the summer, but at my office, you have to layer layer layer because the air conditioning is extremely effective. Brrr… These two additions will be perfect.

Fine guage cotton cardy in rose pink from here. (For when I want to look like Suzy Homemaker.)

Red and cream French Sailor Shirt, three-quarter sleeve boat neck from here. (Will look awesome with the white pants. Ahoy!!)

Mack the Knife

2011-07-11T00:01:00.002-05:00

Saturday was so hot and humid here, that when I was out gallivanting after my pedicure, I made a most uncharacteristic purchase: a six pack of beer! Not being a big beer drinker, I knew that I didn't have a bottle opener at home and using the ol' tried and true Canadian wilderness skill of bottle opening with teeth was just not going to cut it.

(Yes, I can open a bottle with my teeth.)

I set off to get an opener. And boy oh boy did I find a great one!

Isn't it hilarious? I figure why go with something functional and boring when you can have a cute, conversation piece that still gets the job done!

Mack (as I've named him) sits perfectly poised on top of a bottle and does his job with ease…

And then it's time to cool of and relax! The perfect way to settle in on a hot and steamy evening. (And shhh… don't tell, but he came in handy more than once on Saturday night!)

I got this bottle opener at a local gift shop, but if you fancy one for yourself, you can find it here. He's part of a whole line of whimsical animal-themed kitchen gadgets from Boston Warehouse. The monkey potato peeler cracks me up. I think they're so fun and clever.

Cheers!

Gold

2011-07-08T20:39:00.001-05:00

Since wearing and loving my gold Bonannos, I'm all into that previously unloved by me metallic. I went to a hair products shop this afternoon and when I saw this gold headband, I couldn't resist! Between that, the gold Ray Ban Aviators and the sandals, I'm feeling a bit like Goldmember from Austin Powers!

I love goooooollllddd!

Quick Update

2011-07-07T22:33:00.000-05:00

So far, so good. The procedure (epidural steroid injection) went really well and I feel quite good this evening. It only took about 15 – 20 minutes and it wasn't totally painless, but was what I describe as bearable discomfort. If someone told me today I'd have to do it once a month for the rest of my life, I wouldn't run screaming for the hills.

My awesome doctor, Dr. Stitz, told me I would achieve maximum results in 2 – 3 days and that the pain will go away not like a light being switched off, but more like a dimmer switch.

The wish I went to medical totally curious side of me was amazed watching the screen that showed, via live x-ray, my pelvic, hip and back bones. I did turn away when I saw the four inch needle approaching my spinal column and my hands got a little sweaty. I asked for a copy of the printout of the scans they took during the procedure, but was brutally rebuffed! (name that movie)

The back saga continues, but I'm feeling hopefully optimistic.

Before – wearing two gowns (one forward, one backward) because I didn't want my heinie to show!

(Already said this on Twitter, but holy moly do I need to get to a cosmetic surgeon for some Botox and STAT!!!) That crevice in my forehead is embarrassing. Ahhhh middle age…

Cross-eyed Bossy

2011-07-06T23:11:00.000-05:00

It's just not possible to love a face more.

If I do say so myself

2011-07-05T20:49:00.002-05:00

After I got dressed this morning, I looked at myself in the mirror and I couldn't stop my mouth. "I look so cute," I said. I think it's because I was wearing two of my favorite new items for summer: white pants and gold Palm Beach Classic Stephen Bonanno Sandals.

Normally I'm not a gold person, but this year, these sandals have become my "go to" neutral. They're just fantastic and go with everything! Paired with white pants and an L.L.Bean Sailor's Shirt, I felt great today!

I "Frankensteined" the entire outfit together using images from the three different source websites: L.L.Bean, Lands' End and SBS…

Get my perfect summer look by clicking here, here and here.

Short Week Ahead

2011-07-04T17:12:00.000-05:00

Today is the last day of a glorious 4-day long weekend that was bookended by Canada Day on Friday and Independence Day today. What a treat for a Canadian/American such as myself! Back to work tomorrow for three days, then another long weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) courtesy of my awesome workplace. Then, I'll be back to work for a week and finally, I'm taking the last two weeks of July off! Who wants to work in July anyway?

If the surgical procedure I'm having on my back this Thursday gives me the relief I'm so desperately hoping for (fingers crossed!) I might even take a little trip somewhere during my two weeks off. Maybe to the east coast, maybe somewhere tropical, maybe a road trip. Who knows. I'm not making any plans until I get through this back ordeal.

Now that the June photo challenge is complete, I almost don't know what to do with myself here on the blog. I hope those of you who are still around don't mind a little bit of this and a little bit of that. Of course, I'll still be snapping photos when I come across something that interests me. I'll keep posting, if you keep reading. Deal?

I just love that the iPhone takes such nice pictures. Now I am never without a camera. I came across this little beauty in my backyard yesterday evening. It's basically a weed, but I still think it's lovely.

He loves me… he loves me not…

Happy Canada Day!

2011-07-01T19:32:00.002-05:00

Day 30: Family

2011-06-30T19:33:00.001-05:00

My family.

Mummy and Dad: Louise and Ralph Jr., Ralph III, Barry, Lisagh and Jack.

And with that, the 30-day Photo Challenge is complete! Whew.

Day 29: Trees

2011-06-29T20:54:00.000-05:00

I was so ticked that I got a mosquito bite today, that I refused to go outside to take my tree picture. So what did I do? I fired up my embroidery machine, and I made my own tree! Neener neener, Mother Nature!

Day 28: Transportation

2011-06-28T22:26:00.000-05:00

I'm sure this is illegal six ways to Sunday, but for today's transportation-themed photo I just grabbed my iPhone as I was driving home from work and snapped. Shhh… don't tell!

Day 27: Your Weakness

2011-06-27T16:21:00.001-05:00

The Dairi Wip [sic] is a hole-in-the-wall, dive-y burger joint I was introduced to by a co-worker about four years ago. They make the absolute best burgers and fries, but their pièce de la résistance is the soft-serve ice cream! So creamy… so delicious! When I looked at the photo challenge list yesterday to see what was on deck for today I was so excited. What better occasion to admit to weakness and break one's diet for a day? Mwah ha ha ha!!!

Day 26: Favorite Color

2011-06-26T19:18:00.000-05:00

Just like Shelby in Steel Magnolias… my favorite color(s) Blush and Bashful! a.k.a. Pink!!!

Day 25: Citrus

2011-06-25T23:03:00.000-05:00

Today I bought 10 lemons and ran the meat through my Breville juicer. Tomorrow I will finish making homemade lemonade. Most summery beverage there is!

Day 24: Love

2011-06-24T18:13:00.000-05:00

I love this bracelet; not because of what it is, but because who it's from and what it represents. A gift from one of my oldest and best friends. She has one herself and gave one to each of six of us: best friends from prep school. I wear it and think of them every single day.

Day 23: Black and White

2011-06-23T21:52:00.001-05:00

This is the light fixture in my bedroom. What I really wanted was a big ol' over-the-top, elaborate chandelier, but the house is old and I would have had to cut a big hole in the ceiling to have it wired properly. I found this consolation fixture at Home Depot and it'll do 'til I move to a more modern place.

Day 22: Landscape

2011-06-22T22:09:00.000-05:00

Being sick in bed all day, the only landscape I could muster the strength to photograph was my dinner. Spinach, grape tomatoes, capicollo and mozzarella on flatbread… the bread part not technically on my diet, but I needed some comfort food tonight.

Day 21: Close Up

2011-06-21T21:38:00.000-05:00

A close-up shot of me sneezing into a tissue. It's what I've been doing all dang day… can't think to take proper photo… ah ah ah CHOOOOO!

Day 20: Water

2011-06-20T18:49:00.000-05:00

Water in three forms: liquid, solid and condensation. I love how something colorless can be so colorful!

Day 19: Summertime

2011-06-19T17:59:00.000-05:00

When you live somewhere that sees up to seven months of snow on the ground, and even longer of chilly temperatures, there's nothing that says summertime more than driving in the sunshine with the top down!

Day 18: Eyes

2011-06-18T17:19:00.000-05:00

I spent most of today cleaning out my closets and when I came across this little beauty, I knew she'd be the perfect subject for today's assignment. The Kate Spade Barbie® certainly has a dazzling set of peepers!

Day 17: Bokeh

2011-06-17T18:53:00.000-05:00

Don't know what Bokeh is? I didn't either until I Googled it. There's not a lot of depth of field and focus manipulation and blurring one can affect with an iPhone, so this is a combo of natural light, tight focus and Photoshop magic. The subject is a dandelion in my back yard. I think it turned out kinda purdy.

Day 16: Mason Jar/Jelly Jar

2011-06-16T19:59:00.000-05:00

This mason jar sits on my bedside table and is used as a makeshift jewellery box. On top of it sits my terry cloth lobster wearing my favorite sterling silver ring. His name is Terry.

Day 15: Action

2011-06-15T21:59:00.001-05:00

Popping popcorn… what better action is there?

Day 14: Someone You Love

2011-06-14T22:29:00.000-05:00

I don't mean this to sound as pathetic as it will seem, but today's assignment was nearly impossible for me. All day I was thinking, "I don't really love anyone." That's sad, right? I was just about to give up for today and then, as I was turning out the light in the living room to go to bed, I saw these two pictures on the wall and I thought, "Hmm… whatta ya know, I actually do love." So here they are, dad and mommy.

Can we go back to taking pictures of fruit, please?

Day 13: Reminds You of Childhood

2011-06-13T20:06:00.001-05:00

Everyone knows that smell is the sense most associated with memory. I am always reminded of my childhood whenever I catch a whiff of Play-Doh. I didn't have any on hand, so I ran to the toy store after work today and picked up a tub: pink of course! The second I cracked the lid and inhaled, I was immediately transported back to kindergarten in 1971!

p.s. My most coveted toy: The Play-Doh Fuzzy Pumper. Remember that one?!

Day 12: Sun Flares

2011-06-12T18:16:00.001-05:00

I'm not gonna lie. I didn't even get out of my pjs today, let alone go outside to take a photo. So, for a sun flare, this is all she wrote.

Day 11: Silhouette

2011-06-11T16:42:00.000-05:00

Over the past few years I've developed an affinity for kitschy and clichéd Canadian iconography (moose, beavers, loons etc.). I couldn't resist picking up this little woodcut moose from this Etsy shop last year. I thought he'd be the perfect subject for today's assignment. I put him in the window of my craft room and shot upwards and towards the sky with my iPhone. Majestic!

Day 10: Animal

2011-06-10T18:56:00.001-05:00

This is my Boston. Sweetest, most timid, woebegone, little scaredy cat in the world.

Day 9: Fresh Fruit

2011-06-09T19:00:00.001-05:00

The photo assignment for today is "fresh fruit." However, I happen to be on a special diet that for the time being does not permit any fruit, except for lemons for flavoring. So they are all I have in the house. Add to that that it just happens to be my birthday and voilà!

Make a wish!

Day 8: Sunset

2011-06-08T22:19:00.000-05:00

No comment.

Day 7: High Angle

2011-06-07T19:20:00.001-05:00

High angle… hmm. These photo challenges are… well… challenging! This photo was taken with my iPhone out of my office window looking down onto the intersection of Bannatyne Avenue and Main Street at around 4pm this afternoon. In post, I played with depth of field and color saturation to give a miniature effect. There's a technical word for this style, but heck if I know what it is!

Day 6: Books

2011-06-06T21:42:00.000-05:00

I was unable to upload my image for such a long time this evening. I was able to get it uploaded to the flickr group though… you should definitely check those out. So many creative and talented photographers! I don't have much to say about this photo… it's a shot of some of my books in the late afternoon sunlight. I've got four places in my tiny flat where books accumulate. This is definitely the largest group of them.

Day 5: Breakfast Today

2011-06-05T13:17:00.000-05:00

I have recently taken to sleeping in ridiculously and shamefully late on the weekends. I think this is directly related to the amount of stress I've been carrying on the weekdays. Oh well. I've got nothing better to do; might as well sleep! So I just finished eating brekkie at 1pm today. It deliciously consisted of raspberry yogurt sprinkled with oat bran, two scrambled eggs and a big ol' glass of cold, cold water.

Apologies to the squeamish, but it's nearly impossible to eat anything in my house without a little visitor looking on.

Day 4: Clouds

2011-06-04T17:33:00.000-05:00

I was sitting in my convertible at a red light. I had just been to Michaels craft store looking for string (didn't find) and thought to myself, "shizz… I haven't taken a cloud picture yet." So I grabbed my iPhone and snapped one picture towards the sun. I had no idea 'til I got home and sent it to my laptop to upload that this cool reflection was captured.

Day 3: Hands

2011-06-03T09:00:00.006-05:00

I suppose technically one of these is a paw, but you wouldn't know it sometimes with how dextrous she is with those things! So my hands… hmm. I get a pedicure every two weeks and had a weekly standing manicure appointment for years (Saturday at 4pm). However, I'm no longer a fancy manicure-y sort of person. For everyday, I like to keep my nails short, bare and neat. With all the crafting, needlework and sewing I do, it's the most practical. Sometimes, if I'm feeling a little saucy, I'll paint them shiny red.

Day 2: Your Favorite Shoes

2011-06-02T09:00:00.052-05:00

It'll come as no surprise that these are my favorite shoes. I couldn't pick one ultimate favorite, although lately the new gold on gold Palm Beach Classics are getting a lot of 'air time.' And of course, I'm also very honored and proud of the style that bears my name. This picture is of 22 of the 23.5 pairs I currently have. I forgot to add the black ones to the pile and I've lost one of the navy ones. (Still can't figure out how a person loses one dang shoe!) Anyhoooooo… I'm poised to take the SBS whackadoodle crown once again this summer, as I have six new pairs on order as we speak.

Day 1: Self-Portrait

2011-06-01T09:00:00.035-05:00

Taking a self-portrait is a challenge. Besides the technical limitations of being both subject and photographer, you want the image to be honest but not ugly.

I took this last night with my iPhone using the Instagram app with the Walden filter. I also did a few contrast adjustments using Photoshop. I'm not wearing make-up (except what I might have missed after I washed my face.) To make the photo a little interesting, I took out my ponytail and let my Side Show Bob mop top be free.

This is me eight days before my 45th birthday.

I'm going to do this…

2011-05-31T17:35:00.000-05:00

Peekaboo!

2011-05-30T23:36:00.003-05:00

Gotta Go!

2011-01-12T20:39:00.003-06:00

So, I have to completely shut down the ol' blog for a while. (It's a work/privacy thing.) I'm hoping to be back in a couple of months and in the meantime, I'll still be on Twitter every day. Hope to see you there.

Shutdown will commence on Sunday, Jan. 16. If you need any recipes… get 'em now!

. . .

P.S. For those of you who aren't sure exactly how Twitter works, here's a great link that A. found (and coincidentally posted to Twitter) the other day. It explains things perfectly – come join in on the fun! click here.

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Swim!

2011-01-04T18:58:00.003-06:00

Going on my trip in December reminded me how much I've always loved swimming. I grew up with a pool in my backyard and spent so much time at the lake and in the sea. But somehow I recently become somewhat of a landlubber. Over the Christmas holidays I joined a pool and I'm planning to go a few times a week. It's great exercise, is so good for my back and gets me doing something that I love that doesn't include watching t.v..

Of course, I had to pick up a little something in the fashion department for my foray back into the water…

Esther Williams, eat your heart out!

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Happy!

2010-12-31T13:38:00.003-06:00

Just went for my New Year's Eve pedicure: black with sparkles. Wheeeeee! That is the extent of my celebrations for this year. It's sooooo cold here right now, I'm going to stay in tonight and watch my traditional NYE movie "Auntie Mame". Always makes me happy and reminds me to live each day to the fullest!

I don't know what's in store for this little blog in 2011, but please know I am so very grateful for those of you who've stuck with me through this major drought season for the latter half of 2010. I truly wish all the best to you in the new year.

With love…

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Merry!

2010-12-24T15:23:00.003-06:00

I just got home from a volunteer shift with my family serving Christmas Eve lunch at a local mission. My heart is full and I can't think of a better way to have kicked off this Christmas weekend. Please remember those who are less fortunate than us during this time of family and abundance. I promise you, it will help you feel the true spirit of Christmas.

love to all for a joyous holiday… xoL

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19 seconds in Jamaica with a video camera

2010-12-15T09:49:00.003-06:00

Cocktails may or may not have been involved.

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Tree!

2010-12-14T00:01:00.002-06:00

I put up my Christmas tree on the weekend. Doesn't look much different from last year. But no matter; I still love it.

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Had such a good time in Jamaica…

2010-12-13T00:01:00.000-06:00

However, organizing photos is proving to be a more daunting task than I'm currently motivated to do.

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Bon Voyage

2010-12-01T00:01:00.002-06:00

My bags are almost packed and Monkey is poised to hop in to go on holiday. We're heading to Jamaica with our buddy Audra for a week! Surely there'll be plenty of fun stories to report upon our return. Yippee!!!

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Christmas Cribbage Canoe

2010-11-23T00:01:00.002-06:00

L.L.Bean has always offered unique gifts for the prep home during the holidays. I was so tickled by the selection this year. Not only did they include the yearly staple needlepoint stockings, fir wreaths and breakfast kits, but there was also some great new treats that I'm sure will become classics.

I couldn't resist but snatch up this super cute, miniature wooden canoe cribbage board…

Definitely check out their gift section online. L.L.Bean has some of the preppiest, unique and fun Christmas gifts out there!

Now who wants to come over for a game of crib?

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Kindle Cover 2.0

2010-11-22T00:01:00.003-06:00

There was nothing good on t.v. last night and for the first time in a long time, my back was feeling pretty good. I took advantage of that blessing and fired up the sewing machine to work on a quick project.

Behold a new case for my Kindle. Love it!!

I altered the design from the last one I made. Ten and a half months of R & D resulted in the discovery of a few design flaws that needed to be addressed. Now, I can leave it in the cover and read.

I can also keep the cover closed and charge it. Much better if I do say so myself!

This bright, cheery cover will be perfect when I'm reading on the beach in the tropical sunny sun on holiday to Jamaica next week!

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Milestone

2010-11-18T13:39:00.006-06:00

For those of you still with me 'round these parts, I just wanted to point out that today is my official one year unsmokeiversary!

Yip yip yippee! Yahoo! Yay me!!!

Next up on the docket: lose all the weight I gained by stuffing my piehole whilst trying not to smoke.

Seriously. It's a never-ending battle for the likes of me!

Fresh from yesterday's post

2010-11-17T00:01:00.000-06:00

L.L.Bean boat and tote with new monogram style…

"Insignia"…

Love it!

Knit

2010-11-08T00:01:00.000-06:00

It's not snowy here yet, or even that cold, but I got the itch to knit this weekend all the same. I found some fun variegated wool at Michaels that went with my new green vest perfectly.

Voilà, a new hat and scarf…

And a coordinating pair of mittens…

I finished the mittens as I watched multiple episodes of Gilmore Girls (Season 4) on Sunday. Totally relaxing and productive weekend!

Unplanned Pink and Green in November

2010-11-05T15:14:00.005-05:00

Last weekend I went to Old Navy and I picked up five new sweaters (and some t-shirts, and a turtleneck.) If you follow me on Twitter, you saw the evidence shortly after it happened. It was a blackout shopping moment; don't judge! I decided I'd wear one each day this week to work. On Monday I wore green, Tuesday was argyle, Wednesday was brown heather, Thursday was grey and that left bright pink for today.

Yesterday I got a box in the mail from Lands' End and it contained (amongst other seasonal goodies) this most awesome green down vest. I had to wear it right away.

So even though it's autumn and chilly, I'm rocking the pink and green today. And you know what? It's been a wonderful sunny day inside and out!

Hallowe'en Embroidery Project

2010-10-23T18:41:00.004-05:00

My house is all decorated for autumn, but I thought I'd add a little touch of Hallowe'en for this week. Here's what I just finished making … a quilted wall hanging for the end of the kitchen cupboards. Cute, huh?

I also picked up these really cute Hallowe'en kitty embroidery patterns. I might try to whip something up with them tomorrow.

Maybe some goodie bags for Boston and Paris to take out trick-or-treating!

That's the Life

2010-10-20T13:54:00.002-05:00

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Light Housekeeping

2010-10-16T21:30:00.001-05:00

If you ask me a question through the comments section of a blog post and I don't reply, it's often because I don't have an email address to reply to or your Blogger profile doesn't link to a reply address. Better to email questions to me directly. The link to do so is on the right hand sidebar of this blog. Don't want you to think I'm ignoring you.

Thanks!

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Sing it Sister!

2010-10-15T15:27:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I pretend I'm all fancy and restauranty

2010-10-13T00:07:00.002-05:00

Cobb Salad, October 12, 2010

1,000

2010-09-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

On January 1, 2008, I made the New Year's resolution that I would write a blog post every single day for a year. And I succeeded. On January 1, 2009, I challenged myself to see if I could make for another year.

And whatta ya know, I did.

This year, I made no such resolution. But because I'm a little bent, I did make a conscious decision to put an end the streak when I hit a suitable round number. (There's something about round numbers.)

So, guess what today is? Yep. Day 1,000!!!

So what does that mean? Well first of all, I'm awesome. (just kidding) Actually, all it means is that as of today I'm not going to write every day anymore.

To be honest with you, lately I've been feeling like blogging, at least blogging like I remember and love it, has been dying a slow death.

I miss "the good ol' days" and the good ol' people that came with them. And truthfully, I kind of feel like that sitcom that stays on the air one year too long or that last party guest who hasn't realized that everyone has already left and is dancing in the corner with a lampshade on her head. It's almost humiliating.

I'll still pop in whenever I think of something to say or come up with something to share or make something to teach. I just won't be here every day.

I need to recharge.

If you need me, you know how to get ahold of me.

Open For Business?

2010-09-25T08:20:00.005-05:00

Audra told me a story the other day that was fascinating. I thought I'd share it with y'all.

In some indigenous, tribal groups, where there is no exposure to popular media, formal education, etc., there is a tradition that has been maintained to guarantee the continuance of the group. Young men, once they have become of age, are taught the ways of propagation (how's that for a PG euphemism?) by certain, select women of the tribe.

These women are experienced in the act of … well you know … and they are highly regarded by their tribesfolk. It is an honor to be one who leads a boy on the journey to become a man.

In order to announce their availability to teach, the ladies do not have bulletin boards or take out ads in the Tribal Times. They make themselves known by a very simple gesture. They dye the bottom of their feet red!

Think of that next time you sport or covet a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes!

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Solution

2010-09-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

One-One was a race horse.

Two-Two was one, too.

One-One won one race.

Two-Two won one, two.

Conundrum

2010-09-23T00:06:00.001-05:00

1 1 was a race horse

2 2 was 1 2

1 1 1 1 race

2 2 1 1 2

Discuss

2010-09-22T00:13:00.004-05:00

I just ordered these pants from Lands' End. I also got them in navy. (What can I say, they had a 25% off plus free shipping promo.) Anyway, I'm not sure about this color for the winter. Opinions?

Oh yeah, causing me no angst whatsoever, I got this too…

hee hee.

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Confession

2010-09-21T00:01:00.003-05:00

It may be sitting on my bedside table (largely unread) underneath Terry, but what a let down True Prep turned out to be.

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Sad Toes

2010-09-20T14:00:00.002-05:00

I'm wearing close-toed shoes for the first time in I don't know how long. They're really cute, but I'm not very happy about it.

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Today I'm…

2010-09-19T12:41:00.003-05:00

… hangin' around the homestead; knitting sock #2 of a pair of woolly socks; watching DVDs of The Big Bang Theory season 3. Maybe I'll cook something for dinner. Maybe not.

Not a lot going on.

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Saturday Thought

2010-09-18T16:12:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting in the pedi chair right now, relaxing for what feels like the first time in forever. I just spent the past two hours at the funeral of one of my best childhood friend's mother.

I saw a lot of people I haven't seen in a very long time. It was bittersweet.

I don't want the next time I see dear friends to be because somebody died, although as I get older, it seems that defaults to be the norm. I have to make a point to not get caught up in my own life. I need to make time. I need to remember and appreciate.

That's all for today.

Sent on the TELUS Mobility network with BlackBerry

Astronaut Chicken

2010-09-17T00:01:00.000-05:00

Things have been so busy and hectic in my world lately. Yesterday, I even resorted to picking up an astronaut chicken for dinner. If I keep this up, someone's going to revoke my Happy Little Homemaker's Badge.

Serenity Now!

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Hey

2010-09-16T16:16:00.001-05:00

What's up?

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Nine Months Thirty Days

2010-09-15T00:01:00.002-05:00

That's how long it's been since I've smoked.

Despite repeatedly getting in the elevator at work and smelling the delicious smokers who were in there right before me.

Despite my one friend who smokes in the car when we drive somewhere for lunch.

Despite the elevated yearnings I have whenever I drink alcohol. (Another thing this not smoking thing has done is put a damper on my alcohol consumption!)

Despite the dreams. The dreams I have regularly that taunt me…

Like the other night when I dreamt that I had somehow come in possession of a pack of cigarettes. And I felt really, super guilty about it. I even thought (in the dream) "How am I going to explain this to the GG friends; they're going to be so disappointed in me." But I smoked them anyway. All of them. One after the other. And you know what? It was glorious.

Back to my waking life.
I sally forth.
I don't smoke.
I look at pictures on the internet of people with mouth cancer.
I eat blueberries.
I do needlepoint.
I take naps.
Sometimes I cry a little bit.
But I don't smoke.
I don't smoke.
I don't smoke.
I don't smoke.

I.
Don't.
Smoke.

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