It's a Meri Day every day!!

Its BeenYears!!!

2009-12-21T12:44:00.000-08:00

Sam was an elephant for Halloween. The costume was a size 4 and it was a little too small on him. He learned to say "trick or treat."

We gave him a chocolate biscotti to eat on the drive home. I think he liked it.

Wow- this is far back! We went camping in July. Look how tan he is!!

Sam painting a rock on Indian Day at school.

Sam was a fish this summer.

down to the river

2009-05-19T16:37:00.001-07:00

Sam got pretty dirty, and went in the water that was like 2 degrees. A fun time was had by all.

Prison Break is over, more's the pity. I actually thought the ending was believable, although incredibly sad. I finally got to hear Michael speak above a whisper. I am kind of glad it was over. I, too, was tired of running. Poor Agent Self, though, however I think everyone got what they deserved, except Michael, of course.

"The Fashion Show" with Isaac Mizrahi Sucks. I am trying to like it, but its not the same without Heidi and Tim Gunn.

Sam Can count to three, knows green, blue and yellow, and can sing many songs. He says "thank you" (sort of) when you give him something. We are excited to go to Portland in a few weeks and go to the Zoo!

Could I be a Worse Blogger?

2009-05-07T16:11:00.000-07:00

What has it been, like a month? I have been so busy working, and trolling on Facebook that I have totally been neglecting my blog.

So, whats new? First of all, Boo Hoo Blazers. They sure tried, though. I don't know who to root for now, I think the Rockets because I love Rick Adelman still, and watching the Lakers I forgot how much I hated their faces, especially Kobe and Derek Fisher. If whats his face with the hair was still playing, its would be a trifecta of grossness. Rick something? I forget.

One more episode of Prison Break. I will miss it, hope the finale ties up all the loose ends. There is a new show on Bravo tonight with Issac Mizrahi, who I love, I hope it will be funny.

Sam can get out of all doors. We look up after not paying attention for a second and he is outside on the tricycle, or going down the hill, or playing in the mud. He can also sing "twinkle Twinkle", "Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "Ring around the Rosie". He knows the names of a lot of animals, our favorite is chicken, or "gingging"

He is not in a high chair anymore, but a booster seat. He has gotten so big!! We all love to watch "The Wonder Pets" together. Our favourite is "There's a puppy, he has to pee pee, but he can't... cause he's stuck in the house..." We all walk around singing "Whats gonna work- TEAMWORK!!!" like idiots.

I promise to post pictures soon.

Sunny San Diego

2009-04-06T21:01:00.001-07:00

Samwise is very brave! He loved to jump in the waves and even put his head under! Mommy and Aunt Nadine buried him in the sand. He is being such a good boy! He was even great on the plane, though he had to sit on my lap for an hour and a half and the plane was delayed 2 hours. We are having such a good time, but we miss daddy. Aunt Nadine has taken us shopping to the San Ysidro Outlet Mall. I am in retail heaven. BeBe is having the time of her life playing with Sam. Tomorrow: Legoland!!!

Pictures as promised!!

2009-03-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

Sam and Daddy getting ready for the NBA finals!! Go Blazers!! We finally got to watch a Blazers game- vs Cleveland- and we lost in OT. Bummer.

Taking a walk to see the horses.

Climbing in Grampa's truck

Jumping on the trampoline

Loving the Phillies sweatshirt!!

I am not dead!!

2009-03-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

The internet has been out for 3 weeks. I am at the elementary school right now, and by a fluke I got on to gmail. Sam is sick with projectile vomiting. Who's next? I feel nauseous myself. I can not wait to read Pam and Bob's blogs so I can read their take on the Oscars, which, I have to say I loved!! It was the best in years! I though Hugh Jackman did a great job and I loved how the 5 actors/ actresses presented the awards. More soon, I promise!!

Guilty Pleasure

2009-02-05T14:33:00.000-08:00

I tutor the 6th grade girls in the Library. Right across from me is a shelf of "Sweet Valley High" books. How much I kind of want to read them again, right now. Especially "Power Play" and "Perfect Summer." Don't tell anyone

Working Girl

2009-01-29T13:30:00.000-08:00

I have 3 jobs now, 4 if you count being a mommy! I started tutoring math at the elementary school in the mornings, and I am doing textbook inventory there, and then I was just offered the position of after school coordinator!! And I can bring the baby!! Its great, and I am getting to know all of the kids and the teachers so we will be ready when Sam starts school.
My other income will be the 1 million dollars i win when I enter the Pillsbury Bake Off in April. Not only 1 million dollars, but $7,000 worth of G.E appliances. So we are pretty much set.

Karaoke Night

2009-01-26T14:50:00.000-08:00

Uncle Curt and Geena singing "Mustang Sally"

The girls and Sam singing a song I don't know, because I don't listen to top 40 pop. I don't think Sam knew it either. A shout out to Sinead who actually did a good job trimming my hair.

As promised, the 7 day rye

Sam's friend Olivia came to visit. She is a week younger and half his size. They pretty much fought over toys the whole time. No one got hurt or cried, though, and Sam tried to kiss her goodbye. He is a very good kisser. He likes to blow kisses, too. We got him flash cards, and he knows pig, dog (woof woof woof), apple, peas and grapes. Only in english, though, not the 4 other languages the cards suggest.

Forever!

2009-01-22T15:10:00.001-08:00

I know, It's been forever since I last posted. Whats going on-

Sam is a walker- more like a runner. It is so funny watching him toddle everywhere. He got 2 more teeth, hence the EXTREME crankiness of late- an eyetooth and the hugest molar I have ever seen. It makes it easier for him to eat all the food in the world. He helped grandma clean out the pantry yesterday, and was eating fermented black beans. GROSS!! Jeff and I waited patiently for them to come out the other end, with the huckleberries. Sam and the technicolor diaper.

Top Chef- Why is bug eyed Carla still around? I love Jamie the best, and am nauseated by Leah/Hosea love story. I enjoyed the farm challenge. Everything Janet and I cook, we're like "would this get us kicked off Top Chef?" Usually it would, because it was either not plated correctly or we used bad knife skills.

Bread- Janet and I saw Nancy Silverton of LaBrea Bakery on "Julia Child's Cooking with Master Chefs" and became smitten. I got the cookbook and just made the most gorgeous rye bread I wanted to weep. We call it the 7 day rye- it only took 5 days (to build the rye starter- there is no packaged yeast in this bread, only wild yeast, and I had to keep feeding it, over night once it exploded and I was sick so poor Jeff had to deal with it, imagine the consternation!!!). Anyway, of course I have pictures, thanks for asking, but I did not bring my camera today.

Survivor- I love you, Justin, thank you so much. I watched "Survivor- Gabon" in 3 days, I got so excited I love Survivor!!!!!!!!! This was a great season, although I really was rooting for Kenny. I love a good underdog story and this one was perfection- I love watching that bitch Corine's face when she saw that Marcus was kicked out.

ANTM- Thank you, Oxygen, for rebroadcasting last season on Sunday so I could get my Tyra fix! If only I could couch every Sunday and watch TV marathons like I used to...

Nip/Tuck- Its a little ridiculous this season

That's really all I am watching on TV, the new Joss Whedon show starts in February so I am super excited for that.

Oh, and Dexter!! We are netflixing it and it is the best show ever. Except for Buffy and Survivor.

I have almost lived in Orleans for an entire year! Hard to believe. I start Monday tutoring at the school 10 hours a week, in- irony of all ironies- math. Wish me luck!

More pictures of the baby soon!

The Next American Idol

2009-01-06T12:33:00.001-08:00

Some Christmas pictures that I did not post before. It was so great to have my mom here, and my sister Nadine whom I never get a chance to see!

Rockin' his new Puma sweatsuit! Thanks Grandpop Steve and Grandma El!

Sam is a toddler now! He walks everywhere. Its pretty funny.

Oh yes we did!! Jeff and I got a karaoke machine for christmas, and have been putting it to good use. Sam is a star in training!!

Post Christmas post

2008-12-29T12:26:00.000-08:00

Well, Merry Christmas everyone!! I did not bring my camera today, so not only can I not treat you to pictures of Sam in all of his new clothes, but I also cannot post the pictures of when Sam got in the flour bucket. Yes, its true. Daddy was watching him while I was in the other house, and Jeff said that grandma asked him "Why is it so quiet?" So they checked in the pantry and there was the baby eating hand fulls of bread flour, and white from head to toe.
Martha was on Top Chef, not for nearly long enough, and I actually had tears in my eyes. I really love Martha Stewart. I really hope the woman with the big bug eyes gets kicked off soon. And the girl with the bangs.
Nip/Tuck soon!!!
We were supposed to go to Portland last weekend, but, as I have seen from my friends' blogs, its a good thing we didn't!! We will go in a few weeks.
Pictures to come soon!

Winter!!

2008-12-18T12:50:00.000-08:00

We bundled up Sam to let him play in the snow, and of course all he wanted to do was play in the water bowl.

Sam in his new winter coat. He also is wearing shoes, if you can believe it, that he allows us to put on him with much protesting.

The view from the back porch.

Well, Sam stands up and he has taken a few steps, but his favorite mode of transportation is still crawling. Soon, though.

Bob got me the new Jenny Lewis album, and I must say, after repeated listening I kind of love it. I also really dig the new Ryan Adams. Since we are getting a karaoke machine for christmakkah, I have been ordering karaoke disks on ebay, right now I have Journey in my car and Sam and I rock out muchly.

Not much else going on, Jeff and I, weather permitting, will be in Portland the day after Christmas, briefly. Danielle- call me!!!! I miss you!! I did not realize you read my blog.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T15:38:00.000-08:00

Brussels Sprouts with proscuitto and pecans The Hours de 'Ourves Table

Sweet Potatoes with marshmallows (tacky, but tradition) and my first attempt at oyster stuffing.

My beautiful turkey, thanks again Martha Stewart!!

What a lovely Thanksgiving! Pam and Bob came down from Portland, and my mom came from the City. Everything tasted so good, and I did not have to make pies!! I'm sorry my Dad and Mary Ellen had to miss tradition.

More Birthday Pictures!

2008-11-24T12:39:00.001-08:00

I do not want to give mommy the pleasure of a picture of me with birthday cake smeared on my face!

I also do not want to smile with mommy and daddy. I should have taken a longer nap before my party!!

Grampa and Auntie Lillian

Happy First Birthday Samwise!!

2008-11-24T12:23:00.000-08:00

Looking at presents with Geena

No baba shaped cake- mommy was tired!! This is pretty, though. It has raspberry jam in the middle.

Birthday party corndogs- people looked in askance- but they were delicious!!

Mugging for the camera

Grandmom got him a horsie- it makes noise!! We are all kicking ourselves. She said "Don't put batteries in it!!!" but I did. It make giddiyap noises. We put the bandanna on him but you're crazy if you think he would let us put a hat on him.

A Shortcut to Mushrooms

2008-11-19T13:08:00.001-08:00

Sam is up to no good in the pantry.

We took a family outing and went mushroom hunting on Sunday. I even found 2 Queen Boletus, which are tasty!

Sam is going to be one year old tomorrow. Time has certainly flown by! We are having a little party for him on Saturday.

Found USB cord!!

2008-11-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

I am entering a Scharffen-Berger Chocolate contest. I baked Challah as a component to my Chocolate-Coconut Bread Pudding. Turns out, I made Hawaiian bread and liked the flavor and texture much better. Have made it twice now, and am still tinkering with it. I might make some macadamia nut brittle to top it with.

Here is Sam at beebee's house, playing the keyboard. He also likes to play her drums.

Merry-go-round at Fisherman's Wharf part two.

Sam and Beebee at the park in the Marina, where Beebee lives. Sam is very into his apple.

Sam helping Grandmom in the garden! He loves nature, which is a good thing because thats pretty much all we have here. He also likes to climb up and down the steps outside, and inside for that matter. He has 4 words now- "bean," "Berry" (that's a funny one, it encapsulates all berries, huckleberries, raspberries and blackberries, and also the Gerber fruit chews I bought for our road trips) "Please" (that was learned after a trip to see Grandpop Steve and Aunt Mandi and a run in with Coldstone Creamery ice cream. I'd learn a new word for that, too!!) and "up."

I hve also heard: baby, baba, and, when he plays with the phone, "hi." Smart kid!!

Don't feel like posting

2008-11-06T15:01:00.000-08:00

i can't find the USB cord, and now I don't feel like posting because I will just have to write, and i really do not have the time for that. Jeff and I took a much anticipated (Movie!! Target!!) trip to town which ended up being a total let down because we had to take this huge truck and just run errands (hardware store! plumbing store!! Feed store!!!) for his work. I did get 2 restaurant meals (Chinese Buffet, which, sorry to say, dad, but we did not do it justice; and Mexican on the way home.) I also, halfway through, made Jeff drop me off at Target for 2 hours.
Anyway, the whole clan here is much heartened by the election results, what a world for Sam to grow up in. I am just so disappointed that proposition 8 passed.
Sam's first birthday is 2 weeks away. I hope I find that silly cord by then.

missing usb cord!

2008-10-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

We were in San Fransisco visiting BB and I think I left my usb cord there, so no pictures for a while. Too bad, cause Sam is getting SO cute and we have been making some really good looking food. Lets see, we had Sloppy Joe's (which we called sloppy Josa's in honor of my niece, much to her chagrin,) venison goulash over homemade egg noodles with rye bread ( I have been playing with the no knead bread recipe- this time I added rye flour and sourdough starter- the best bread yet!!) And yesterday I made delicious pizza with olives, caramelized onions, peppers, pepperoni and three cheeses.

San Fransisco was great, I wish we could have gone under happier circumstances. We went to Chinatown (my mom made me take a bus!!) and pretended we were tourists and got schlocky gifts and has yummy Chinese food. We had a picnic at the marina, and walked around alot. I also got to see so much TV that I usually don't get a chance to see, like ANTM. We also watched "Stylista", which if I had the CW at home I would be totally addicted to, its about kids who want a job at Elle magazine, and a hilarious show called "Whatever Martha" which should go under the category of "Things I wish I had thought of first, and probably did when me and my old roommate used to tape ourself watching bad eighties movies." This show consists of Alexis Stewart (Martha's daughter) and her friend watching old episodes of the Martha Stewart show and making snarky comments, and crafting along with her and making messes. Funny!

Anyway, we are home now and getting back in our routine. Sam says "up" now when he wants to get up, and we have had to strap him in to his high chair (which we probably should have done all along) because he tries to climb out of it. He also like to climb into snug spaces, like boxes, and flowerpots. He shakes his head "no" when he is doing something he shouldn't - like pressing the dvr button, trying to turn the burners of the stove, or throwing food on the floor. Yet he does it anyway. We also left the gate to downstairs open by accident, and he went down the stairs all by himself. That was pretty scary. all in all, we are very excited for his first birthday in less than a month!!

Dinner last night

2008-10-15T13:19:00.000-07:00

This is what we had for dinner last night. apparently, alot of people besides me like to look at pictures of food. This was Black Pepper Chicken from "The Week" magazine. It took about 15 minutes to make and it was super good. When you are craving Chinese around here, you gotta make it yourself, so that's what we did. The sauce was brown sugar, ginger, chilies, fish sauce, and three times more garlic then the recipe called for. I also added a corn starch slurry at the end to thicken the sauce. Even Josa, who usually only eats white rice, was ladling the sauce over her rice. I should have added more chili peppers as well.

I have embarked on a daunting new project that should keep me occupied this winter. I am culling through my 1000+ collection of cooking magazines and cutting out the recipes and filing them in folders. It will take forever, but it is fun and kind of inspiring. I have a whole file of "Things that look great but in no way will I ever make them," mostly including lobster, caviar, truffles and fois gras. Well, who knows?

Project Runway season finale tonight!! I keep looking on line for spoilers but cant find out who won. I feel like I should make everyone dress up for the occasion. Those who know us will laugh very hard at that.

We took Sam to a puppet show at the Elementary school today. It was about bullying, and set to rock music to reach the kids, you know? Anyway, any time music came on Sam would bounce and rock and shake his head. Got to get the drum kit soon!!

Project Runway

2008-10-13T14:21:00.001-07:00

Wasnt Leanne's wedding dress the prettiest? And Haha that Kenleys looked like an Alexander McQueen. Still, I am excited to see both of their collections. I am so gald its an all female final three! Go Leanne!!

No Knead Bread

2008-10-13T14:08:00.000-07:00

Am I the last person in the world to try this bread? I hope I won't be the last. this was without a doubt the most perfect loaf of bread I have ever made, and the easiest! Every time I make bread, the crumb isn't right, or the crust, or whatever. This recipe produces the best crumb, the beast flavor and the best crust. It takes about 24 hours, so you have to plan ahead, but its worth it!

Sam Pictures

2008-10-08T16:51:00.000-07:00

All the outfits we buy him are too long, but because his thighs are so chunky that's the size we have to buy!

Sam's new favorite pastime- helping unload the dishwasher

On another note- Prison Break- could it BE any better!!!

Adventures in Cooking

2008-10-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

I made Pissadaliere last night, Pizza crust with anchovies, caramelized onions, fennel, olives and thyme. Delicious! I joined all of these food blogging sites so I thought I would do my due diligence and post some of what Anthony Bourdain calls "Food Porn." I had a lot of recipes for this but the one from Cooks Illustrated was closest. It was good but we decided either more anchovies (they are supposed to decorate the top in a cross hatch pattern, but we only had one can) or red pepper flakes to cut the sweetness of the onions.

Too lazy to Post

2008-10-07T12:05:00.000-07:00

I have been to busy (lazy) to make the effort to post lately. I'm sorry. First and foremost, thank you thank you thank you to Erin, who fixed my formula soaked ipod. I forgot what a blessing it is to have upwards of 5000 songs at ones disposal during a road trip! I usually listen to just my play lists, but this time we put it on shuffle and got to hear some rarities that I forgot I had. Much better than scanning radio stations and getting Mexican radio, country, religion, Joe Walsh or "Mony Mony." Jeff and I agree sometimes the Spanish stations are the best bet. Although, sometimes we groove along to a catchy hook before we look at each other and say "Whoops! I think they are singing about Jesus!!"

Jeff and I took a rock star trip to Portland Last weekend for his birthday- really quick, just a day and breakfast the next morning. We stayed at the grossest hotel ever- The Banfield on 39th and Sandy- It was close to the bar and we did not make any previous arrangements. We probably wouldn't have thought it was so bad if the weekend before my dad had not put us up at the Homewood Suites. I have pictures of the Banfield but wish we had some of the other so I could post them next to each other. Anyway, we had a great time- We had conveyor belt sushi at Sushiville (Brian and I were hesitant, we love Saburo, but Jeff insisted and we were more than pleasantly surprised,) we went to the Galaxy which I pretty much hate on the weekends because everyone there is 12 and too hip and sings R&B. Then we went to the Ambassador which I like better now cause its non smoking, and Justen works the backroom.

We went to the Paradox for breakfast and what do you know, they remodeled it and took down the scary clown pictures. The food is still blandi-ish, but at least its pretty now and you don't have to go through the kitchen to use the bathroom.

Does anyone else think Leanne got robbed on "Project Runway?" If her dressed was a top scorer she should automatically be allowed into fashion week. I spent all of yesterday looking for spoilers because I have no patience and want to know who won. I guess she will get to show either way, because fashion week already happened, and they always have decoys.

Uncle Curt shot a Buck, so we have been taking care of that. This is one instance you should be glad I am not posting pictures. I handled myself pretty well, but I had to take a 20 minute boiling hot shower last night to get the smell out of my nose. It's actually pretty interesting, some we set aside for jerky, some goes into soup, some is dog food and most gets frozen. Finally the butcher shop part of my culinary degree is paying off.

Meredith is so sad about Suede

2008-09-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

My nieces Josa and Geena at Indian Day. So beautiful!

Should this whole post be in third person to commemorate Suede being aufed off of Project Runway? Meredith thinks so. Meredith thinks Kenly's horrible "hip hop" outfit was the worst, but apparently tantrums and hystrionics make better TV. Meredith does not care, she did not much care for Suede anyway, but thought it hysterical when everyone was tricking Kenley into believing her look was fly. Meredith also enjoyed Korto getting in touch with her country roots. Again, GO LEANNE!!

We just got back from San Jose, where we got to see my mom and dad, both who were so happy to see the baby. I think my Dad dislocated his shoulder picking Sam up. Jeff and I certainly enjoyed finally seeing "Dark Knight."

We also, courtesy of Homewood Suites in San Jose, got to watch the first episode of this seasons "The Office." How romantic- proposing at a rest stop. Of course now we will have to wait forever to watch the rest.

Fish Oil and Facebook

2008-09-23T14:10:00.000-07:00

So, we were playing in the kitchen as usual yesterday, I was making bagels to use up some of the smoked salmon and Sam was taking lids off of jars and stacking things in the pantry (important baby stuff is what Jeff calls it.) I noticed that it was a little to quiet and... peeked in the pantry to see Sam rolling around in a pool of used oil that we fry fish in, happy as a clam. You can imagine I did not know whether to laugh or cry. I laughed, of course, took some pictures (too dark ,I think cause they were in the pantry) and then threw him in the bathtub, almost breaking my neck in the process from slipping on the fish oil. The irony is that this whole episode happened while I was on the phone with my in-laws, who are away, assuring them that, yes, everything is fine, the garden is getting watered and picked, the baby is great...

Also, Facebook. Weird!! All these old elementary school friends are finding me. Random. I usually can't get on it because it is restricted at the computer center.

We are going to San Jose this weekend. Jeff and I are going to be able to see movies! Hopefully Batman is still in the theatres. What else should we see? If you could recommend one movie that's worthwhile, what would it be? To bad "Harry Potter" is not out yet, even though I watched the preview on line.

"The Office" starts on Thursday. And "survivor" Sigh.

I am about to Google recipes for Grouse, since Curt apparently shot some yesterday. Where am I?

Why is Kenley such a bitch?

2008-09-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

Have you been watching "Project Runway?" Why on earth not? Why is Kenley, who was one of my favorites, turning in to a world class bitch? Doesn't she realize there is a reunion show? Oh, and Karma? This will definitely bite her in the red- lipsticked ass!! Especially if she tries to make a 50's inspired hip hop outfit in the next challenge. Goodbye, Jim! Straight men have no place in "Project Runway!"

New Foods

2008-09-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

Other than dog food, Sam has been enjoying some rather exotic fare of late. His favorites are tomatoes and tomato juice, he has also sampled with much gusto grilled salmon, heirloom beans (which resulted in much unlovely poop), raspberries, venison, and apples (we just eat the skin off and give him the whole apple to gnaw on- its hysterical, he loves it, he can work on one apple the whole day, and he eats the whole thing!).
We think he said grandma yesterday- Janet and I both heard it!
Nothing much else is new. Tonight starts the new season of "House," and in a few minutes I am going home to watch "Prison Break." I don't know when "Survivor" starts, but I hope hope hope someone will tape it for me. I read somewhere that the premier will be 2 hours long. I could watch it all day.

Sorry!

2008-09-11T13:24:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a long time since I posted. So much has happened. All the cousins left, and we miss them terribly! It is very quiet around here. We went again to visit Bebe to help her move into her new apartment by the Marina in SF. We got to go to Golden Gate Park, and walk around Bebe's new neighborhood, which is very cool, and flat! It was sad to see my mom's burnt apartment, but we like the new one better!
Sam has about8 teeth now, and he used them to bite me the other day! He also uses them to eat apples (after we eat the skin off). We have gone to the river a few times, and he still enjoys the water. 8 teeth, but still not much hair!
On a recent costco run we got season 4 of "The Office," which we were not able to see the end of because we dont get local channels. So funny! We haven't finnished yet, but "the dinner party" and "the chair model" were hysterical!
We also are intrigued by the pilot for HBO's "True Blood."
Go Leanne on "Project Runway!!" You should have won last night too for your Avant Garde look, Jerrells was ugly, you were robbed. Not sad to see Terri go.
Could "Prison Break" be any better this season?

this is what happens when babies do not nap!

2008-09-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

Pictures

2008-09-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

Daddy lets me climb up the stairs. Mommy is not to happy about it, but I guess you got to learn sometime.
Sam and Aunt Lisa being silly! We had so much fun on their visit.

Come in, is this not the FUNNIEST PICTURE EVER!!! Yay lunch!!

MobileMe Gallery - Cousins 2008

2008-09-11T13:10:00.000-07:00

MobileMe Gallery - Cousins 2008

2008-09-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

MobileMe Gallery - Cousins 2008

I will miss you, Grandmom Lee

2008-08-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

When I think of Grandmom Lee, I think of the word "respite." She taught me that word when I was maybe 10 or so, and said whenever I needed it, I could come to her and she would be my respite, my peaceful break from life.
I remember her house, and how she always saved milk tops, and meat trays, and rubber bands. I remember every room of the house in Plymouth Meeting vividly.
As a cook, alot of my memories are wrapped around meals, and some of my favorite childhood memories take place in Grandmoms kitchen and dining room, where the menu rarely fluctuated- halved grapefruit with a cherry, salad in those wooden bowls, with a whole onion for grandpop, barley soup, and, as we used to joke about, some type of"meat," Living around so much of my husbands family now, and watching all my nieces put o plays and sing for the adults, I yearn to be back in grandmoms house with all of my aunts, uncles and cousins.
I remember going to plymar with grandmom, and how she used to watch me endlessly on the slides and the diving boards. I remember laughing in the showers with her in the locker room, jumping out of the spray when someone flushed the toilet.
It is bittersweet for me that I live so far away, and have not seen grandmom for many years. The memories i have of her will always be when she was younger, of walking in the wissahicon, and swimming laps.
I wish she had gotten to meet my Sam, as I was her first grandchild,he is her first great grandchild, and I know she would have made him feel as special as she did her Meri Day.
I love you, grandmom. Thank you for giving me a love of books, and a love of writing, and for always making me feel special and peaceful. I hope you are at peace, now.

Cousin Allegra

2008-08-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Allegra- I am so sorry we missed your wedding. You look so beautiful! I heard it was quite a party, and I hate to miss a good party. I wish you so much happiness. Hope to see you soon.

Blue Skies!!

2008-08-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

We returned home from Portland to be greeted by lovely blue skies this morning, a huge treat after what seems like months of smoke smoke smoke. It was so nice to be home, sleep in my own bed, and see Jeff. I love to watch Sam's face when he sees his daddy after a long time, he just lights right up and it is so cute.

I am sorry, but I did not take one picture the whole time we were away. The lovely photo above is courtesy of Pam, who is also my hero for the autographed Chuck (chuckles!!) Pahlaniuck book, which we can't leave around the kiddies.

So, Portland. It rained the whole time, which was actually great, better then the heat wave I heard they were having. We did too much shopping, It was a trip to take my German nieces and nephew to Clackamas Town Center, but good for them, great exchange rate! Its funny how overwhelmed I get at a mall now, too, after living in Orleans. So much stuff!!

I got to take my nieces Geena and Annie to walk on Hawthorne, we went to lunch at the Cup and Saucer. Our waitress was so sweet, Lori, she brought Sam fruit without us asking and he flirted with her the whole time. Then Brian and I saw her later at the Triple Nickle and I was going to buy her a drink but she was leaving.

Sam and I also got to visit Dr. Ed, which was very sweet. Sam had just woken up from sleeping in the car, so Dr. Ed did not get to experience the full effect of Sam's' personality.

Bri and I went out Tuesday night to the Galaxy, and got to hang out with Justen and the rest of the crew. It is just so surreal to hang out with them now. I miss my boys so much. Justen, bless his heart, burned me Hannah Montana and Jonas Brother Cd's for my niece Geena who was riding home with me. She was in heaven, and now I have "Best of Both Worlds" in my head.

Sam turned 9 months old yesterday. He has three teeth and a nub of a top tooth. His hair is growing. He has been getting constant attention from 11 nieces and nephews, Aunts and grandparents. He can crawl up stairs, which makes me sick to my stomach. He babbles constantly, and is so funny.

Next week is my blog's 1 year anniversary!!

My brilliant child

2008-08-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

So, Sam and I have a book that we read together before naps and bedtime, "I love you through and through." Last night, Jeff and I were reading on the couch and Sam was playing at our feet. I said "Sam, go bring mommy 'I Love you Through and Through'" and darned if he didn't crawl right over to the book, pick it up, and bring it back to me. Jeff is my witness. We both looked at each other in shock. Smart baby!!

We are going to Newport for a few days and then off to Portland! Hopefully I will get to see a few of my friends, none of them have seen Sam since he was 3 months old. He is much bigger and way more fun!!

Visitors!

2008-08-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

We have Aunt Lisa, and cousins Sophie, Lena, Annie and Luis visiting from Germany. I'll post pictures soon. Sam is never wanting for company and is going to be awfully let down when they all leave and the girls start school again. His cousins are beautiful and talented, and Sam cannot get enough of them! Aunt Jennifer and cousins Lillian, Jackson and Avery from Detroit will be down this afternoon. Sam will be completely overstimulated, but its great for me because I have a lot of down time and I love to see him play with the kids. He really believes he is older than he is. He is pulling up on everything, and cruising around. I am afraid he will be walking soon. Oh no!!
We got him a mini basketball game so that he can be ready for basketball season. GO BLAZERS!!!

Pasta Machine!!

2008-08-08T14:20:00.000-07:00

I got a pasta machine from Amazon.com, so I decided to jump right in and make pasta for about 16 people! I used a recipe from Saveur Magazine, and since it served 4 decided to triple it. The dough was stiff and complicated to knead, so I threw it in the stand mixer. Due to the amount of dough I made, the mixer was making sad wheezing sounds,so I took it out and kneaded the rest by hand.
Half way through. Will I ever be done?
All of the Pasta

Beautiful finished product- Linguine with Lamb Ragu'. After all that, we have a ton of pasta left over in the fridge. I will never triple any recipe again! It was delicous, though, and got rave reviews.

Pictures

2008-08-08T14:17:00.000-07:00

Grandpop Steve, Grandmom El, and Sam
I let Sam have a carpet buffet while we were watching "Lonesome Dove."
Sam found a lot of interest in the roll of toilet paper and the trash can.

Fall TV

2008-08-05T13:18:00.000-07:00

Well, its almost time for fall TV and I am pretty sad. We don't get Fox, NBC,or CBS, so it looks like I am going to have to find alternate ways to watch "House," "Prison Break" "The Office" " Survivor" and whatever else I forgot. Justen? My VCR savior? Please? I guess I could watch them on line but it's really not the same. Also, Brian is my Prison Break buddy so i am sure he will miss me.

As well as we are talking about television, I should mention just how lame I think all of the new designers are on this season of "Project Runway." I thought that Tim Gunn was going to have an apoplexy 3 weeks ago when everyone made their dresses out of tablecloths instead of something creative. I do like Leanne from Portland and that Kenley, who is super cute.

Update

2008-07-31T14:21:00.000-07:00

Well we took Sam to the Doctor a few days ago. He is 27 pounds ( I know, I know) and 27 inches long. He also had 4 shots, and for the rest of the day was super clingy, which is not normal, but very nice. He has a new look, where he sort of tilts his head to the side and gazes up at you, we call it his "coy" pose. I think he is going to be a huge flirt!! He also has several tricks, when you say "bouncy bouncy" he will bounce up and down, he will also do "rocky rocky" when he is on his hands and knees. He has, much to my chagrin, not said "Mama" yet, but I know its coming.

Why is radio so bad? I have taken several road trips- long ones- since I have moved to Orleans, and I must say that the state of FM radio has sadly declined. I must have heard every song I TOTALLY hate at least 3 times, including many by Joe Walsh, whom Jeff will tell you I completely despise, "Black Velvet" twice, "Mony Mony"- both versions, I even heard that horrible "Mambo number 5"- remember that horrible song? And then, to add insult to injury, whenever a song I liked came on, like "Keep on Lovin' You" the radio station would get all static-y. Oh, I rue the day I spilled formula on my ipod. I must have listened to the new REM
and Rilo Kiley 12 times each. Oh, and much Smiths- thank you Justen. While I was listening to "Strangeways Here we Come" I remember when I was listening to it with my mom when I first got it- freshman year of high school I thing- and she thought it was the most depressing thing ever. Well, duh! It's the Smiths, that's the point.

I have been baking a lot lately. When my dad and Mary Ellen came up to visit, we did and authentic North Carolina Barbecue, I even made hamburger buns, and I made 2 pies- blackberry (Sam and I picked them that day, he hates to stay still in his stroller) ans peach. Daddy, don't read this, but the reason the crust was so good on the peach pie was because i used bear fat- it made it really flaky! I also make really good whole wheat bread. Sam loves it!

San Diego

2008-07-29T12:04:00.000-07:00

I ate 10 pounds of sand, and subsequently pooped it out. We are at Coronado Beach, it was beautiful!
I crawled right into the waves!

Home

2008-07-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

Well it took 14 hours, and I drove 800 miles, but Sam and I traversed California and made it home in one piece. Thank you to Aunt Nadine and Uncle David, we had such a great time! It's so good to be home and to sleep in my bed, though. And Grandpop Steve and Grandma El are coming up to visit on Saturday. I don't have much time to blog today, but more soon. Grandmom Lee- my thoughts are with you and I love you so much.

Failure

2008-07-16T19:46:00.000-07:00

Well, I am officially a failure on the Maple Syrup Diet. I lasted 2 and a half days. I think I just did not drink enough of it because I really did not like the taste, and also, I was not home, which made things complicated. Also, I craved EVERYTHING, even things I would not normally even think of eating, like Subway meatball subs and Burger King. Also, the laxative tea- well, never mind.
Sam and I are pretty homesick, we are having such a wonderful time with Nadine and David but we miss daddy SO MUCH!! I also really just like to be home, in my own bed, with my things. So we are going to leave Sunday, make a pit stop with Bebe in San Fransisco, and then head back to Orleans.
Sam has been incredible. He is a bit cranky because he has a third tooth coming in, and I think he misses Jeff and his cousins, but he has been a trooper. He has played in the Ocean, the bay, in parks and in the bookstore, which he loves. He just took a shower with Nadine. He has eaten much sand, and had many sandy poops. He is pulling up in everything and kind of cruising around. We are worried that he will be walking soon, and we are not sure if we are ready for that.
Anyway, I am going to go EAT something!

The beach and Sea World

2008-07-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

I will post pictures when I unpack my computer, but, truly, Sam at the beach was the funniest thing I have ever seen. After sitting on the beach and enjoying many handfuls of delicious sand, we took him closer to the ocean and that baby crawled right into the surf! We had to keep dragging him back, but he kept crawling out for more. I held him standing in the waves up to chest height on him, and he loved it and can't wait to go back. Of course the next morning's poop was filled with sand, but I guess that's good for cleansing out your system.

The next day we went to Sea World with Bebe, Uncle David and Aunt Nadine. We saw the Shamu show, and the dolphins. Sam seemed to like the Beluga whales the best.He is such a happy baby and was well behaved the whole day. He even took a well timed nap while mommy, Aunt Nadine and Uncle David checked out the free beer samples (Sea World is owned by Anheuser Busch) We even got to to a fancy tasting of Bud light with lime and pepper Jack cheese, which seemed a little silly but oh well.

This morning Bebe left to go back to S.F., and Sam and I are going to go exploring when he wakes up from his nap.

Here we are!!

2008-07-12T11:19:00.000-07:00

Here we are in beautiful San Diego. The first stage, Sam and I traveled to San Fransisco, and we had a good time with Bebe there. I got to see Indiana Jones and I smiled during the whole thing, though it was not as much fun to watch it without Jeff. We took Sam to a park and he crawled all around. It was good to be out of the car!! Then off to San Diego. Bebe drove the whole time, and, as usual, Sam was an awesome travelling companion. It was a long day- 9 am till 8 pm, but he was a champ! Today we are going t o the beach, and tomorrow, Sea World. Aunt Nadine and Uncle David have a Wii, and its pretty cool. I want to get one with the 'rock star" game for Jeff.
More later!

Taking off

2008-07-07T13:44:00.000-07:00

Well, the fires are so bad here, and the smoke is so thick, that I think is has become not safe to be here for the time being. There is an advisory for babies not to be outside, and, well, the thought of keeping Sam inside all summer is intolerable. Thank goodness for my sister Nadine, who has kindly invited to take us in for a while in San Diego. We are very excited! We are going to Sea World, and maybe Lego land, and the Zoo, and we will sit on the beach and walk around.

We are, however, very sad to leave daddy for three weeks, and will miss him terribly. He is sad as well.

We think Sam said his first word- "hippo" because we were playing with his purple hippo. Janet heard it too so I am not imagining things, I swear. Now we are teaching him "up." No "mama" yet, though. He is pulling up on everything, his new came is trying to pull the wine out of the wine cabinet. Eek!

Wish us luck on our road trip. I am bringing my laptop so I will keep everyone updated!

Portland

2008-07-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

This picture is not Portland. He just likes the outside shower.
Got into Portland Friday night. The road we usually take was closed, so we had to drive on a dirt road up a mountain. It was really pretty, though. Then I met Brian and we had a ton of Sushi.
We went to Galaxy first, but it was pretty busy, so we went to the Ambassador, where Justin was working the backroom. It was like those private booths in Japan, just all of our friends.

I sang a lot of Karaoke last weekend! Then Saturday I went by myself and had coffee, did the crossword, went to the bookstore for hours and saw 2 movies. Heaven!

Bari and the girls took Sam camping. When we picked him up at the campsite he was happy but very dirty.

I only posted pictures of Brian because he never reads my blog, so how can he be mad at me?

San Fransisco treat!

2008-06-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Sam and cousin Bandit. They had fun chasing each other around Aunt Mandi's house
Sam went to Santa Cruz for the first time. It rained at the beach, but we still had fun playing with Beebee in the sand, and seeing the ocean.
Sam had his first foray into a fine dining establishment. As long as there are things to eat, we are happy! Mommy got to have a delicious bloody mary (much needed) and yummy Cioppino!
Sam went on the carousel at Pier 39. He didn't throw up or cry! I cried a little, though!

Right in front of me, just now, Sam sat up by himself from lying on his stomach. Good job! He can also clap his hands now. He slept through the night for 3 nights with Beebee, then we got home and he was back to his old bag of tricks. I think his little teeth are hurting him, because we put some baby orajel (Jeff knew where it was and not me! how weird!) and he was fine.

There are- no exaggerations- 400 forest fires going on around here. The smoke is hanging like a blanket over us. It is getting a little scary and I am wondering if we should take Sam out of town for a little while. Anyone want us to visit?

San Fransisco

2008-06-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

Sam and I are visiting Beebee for the weekend in San Fransisco. Of course, he slept all night- from 10:30 untill 8 am, and I still could not sleep. We walked around my mom's neighborhood last night when we got in, and both mine and Sams eyes were wide at all the people and stores- more people in one night then Sam had seen in 3 months! The internet is so FAST here! Today we are going to see Aunt Mandi in San Jose and cousin Bandit the dog.

Quickly...

2008-06-18T17:11:00.001-07:00

Only a short post because I am about to start a web design class. The new REM album is fantastic. That's all. And I got to spend 2 hours in Target yesterday. Good times.

Updates

2008-06-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

Sam likes to drink water from a bottle. He cut a tooth yesterday, now i guess he will start biting everything. He is already very interested in cords, so tomorrow, while replacing my windshield in town, we need to get some plug protectors This is how Sam falls asleep every night. He loves his Baba
Sinead graduated 8th grade last week. Her graduating class had 3 children. Congratulations Sinead!

Also congratulations to Nadine, my sister, who got a kick ass promotion. Look for her on Fox 5, San Diego. She jumped 138 markets!!! Woo Hoo!

Friday the 13th!

2008-06-16T12:25:00.001-07:00

Friday the 13th started ok, I worked, I came home, I napped. When I woke up, Janet said to go look at my windshield and lo and behold, Barry had knocked out my back windshield (and Janets!) with the tractor- it shot out gravel. Then there was a forest fire, pretty close to our house, from Bari Gail's house you could see flames! So we spent the rest of the day watching helicopters drop water on it.

Don't do it!

2008-06-12T14:25:00.000-07:00

Out of boredom and exhaustion yesterday, while Sam was taking a nap, I did what i always swear I'll never do again- cut my own bangs. They didn't turn out to badly, but, ugh, will I never learn? I once cut them by candlelight when the power went off in my apartment because I was watching "America's Next Top Model" and Tyra looked so cute with bangs. Curse you, Tyra Banks, and your fabulous weaves!! I had to do something because I got a haircut a few months ago and It's not growing out as good as I had hoped.

I am very pleased that Stephanie won "Top Chef" even though I think Lisa's final meal looked better, she was just such a rag and Stephanie was so sweet and consistent. What I am really excited for of course is "Project Runway," fierce bitches.

New friends

2008-06-10T13:20:00.000-07:00

This is the horse we go to visit every day. Sam likes to feed him carrots.

Sam has eaten many new things, most of which are shredded magazines and assorted shopping lists, but also a tiny bit of chicken, cottage cheese, green beans and peas. He also had some of my berry smoothie at Costco because we were waiting for Mike Bibby's tires to be installed and he was cranky.

He took a bath last night right in the bathtub, not in his little bathtub insert! He is also zooming around everywhere, we have gates up and are starting to barricade.

My job is going great. People call in the morning over at the store to see if I am baking, and then they say "good, I am coming right down!" Maybe I should ask for a raise.

Cool Dude!

2008-06-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been so long!!

2008-06-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

It's been like weeks, I know! The internet has been impossible to get on, and I have been so busy with Sam and my first catering gig, that went AWESOME, by the way!
Sam is pretty much crawling, he is brilliant, I know, barely 6 months old. If only he could sleep through the night....
Sam had a doctors appointment yesterday, and got 3 shots. I think it hurt me more than it hurt him , He screamed so loud!! But he is super healthy, 24 and a half pounds, 27 inches... my little linebacker.
We finally got to go to town a few weeks ago, just me and Jeff, and saw Iron Man, which was fantastic, and actually went to a restaraunt for dinner. I forgot how much fun it is to order off a menu and have someone else clean up- it has been about 3 months!
What I miss the most is going out for breakfast. I miss the Tin Shed, Bannings, and lord help me even that Paradox, house of vegan blandness.
Beebee came to visit over memorial weekend, and we had so much fun! She took me to Costco and helped me shop for my catering gig, which took a lot of patience on her part, since I had been awake since 3 am and was stressed out and cranky. She brought Sam a keyboard, and it's everyones new favorite toy.
pictures to follow, soon!

In other news

2008-05-20T15:21:00.001-07:00

We are very sorry for the New Orleans Hornets, who had a very sad loss to the stupid San Antonio Spurs in game seven. Again, this is why it is very important to MAKE YOUR FREE THROWS! Now we really don't care who wins. Who do I hate less- the Spurs or the Lakers? Tough call. I guess go Pistons!

Pictures!!

2008-05-20T14:46:00.000-07:00

I can sit up all by myself!
No caption needed.
I just tried tofu. How can daddy eat this stuff!!
I am starting to crawl!

Six month update

2008-05-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry- I have a job and have been taking this on-line class and have really not felt like blogging lately. Sam is going to be 6 months old in a few days, so I thought I would give and update on what he's up to.

He can sit up by himself, for really long lengths of time!
He eats pretty much anything that is near him, so we really have to keep our eyes open. He has gotten his hands on asparagus lately, more than once, but I figure since we grow it ourselves its probably ok. He also has been eating tofu. Soon it will be peach season here, and berry season, so I will put away anything white (like I haven't already!!)
he is starting to scoot around. Not quite crawl, but he definitely can get himself from point a to point b.
He can not and will not sit still. It's been very difficult to watch the playoffs around here. He is very demanding of attention.
He is super aware of animals. We go visit the horses every day and feed them carrots, and he giggles at them. Also there are like 1000 dogs around here.
So far the teething has not yielded any teeth, but much drool. MUCH drool
We are not yet sleeping through the night. Sigh.
Sam loves to be around people. He is at his happiest when in a crowd. So, that's good, because for a podunk town there certainly are a bunch of people always around. I have a better social life here than I did in Portland!

I have made some really nice friends, and I have a huge 3 day catering event coming up in the next few weeks. Plus my job. I am getting a little bit of cabin fever, so in next week I think we are going to town (Eureka, 2 and a half hours away) so I can go to Costco and shop for the catering thing, and get a little Target fix, and maybe, PLEASE maybe see a movie. "Indiana Jones" is my choice . Jeff and I will have to flip a coin because he wants to see Iron Man.

My one year wedding anniversary is in a few days. The 20th. This year has gone so fast!

Living in Orleans

2008-05-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

Those are eels. Someone brought them to us (alive) in a bucket. I was thankfully not around when they were dispatched into the grilled morsels above.

Also, the picture didn't come out, but a few days ago our neighbors horses escaped and there were about 6 of them grazing in our front yard. Everyone was pretty blase about the whole thing.

Another funny thing is, do you know how they say when you lose a limb you feel it sometimes, like phantom pains? Well, both Jeff and I discovered that we have been hearing phantom cell phone rings. Eerie

I got a job! Baking at the Salmon River Outpost, a cute store about 8 miles up the road. I go in on the weekends at 5 (shades of Starbucks) and bake bread, bagels, scones, muffins etc. I started yesterday and It is going to be so much fun. The people that work there are super nice, and since it's one of the 2 stores around, I will meet a lot of locals, and get all the gossip.

Survivor ends this Sunday and I can't wait for Justen to send me my tapes. I. Can't. Wait!!!!!

Holy crap! Basketball has been pretty darn exciting. The Hawks held out against the Celtics longer then I am sure anyone, including themselves, expected them to. And can I get a holla for my New Orleans Hornets! I loved watching those sour Spurs' faces as they were trounced twice in a row. Keep it up! It's the Lakers next for you!

To the snow

2008-05-06T14:45:00.000-07:00

We drove up the "GO" road to see the snow. We took a picnic. Sam is enjoying it!

Down to the river

2008-05-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

We took Sam to the river the other day, to put his feet in the very cold water and in the sand. We got very dirty. Notice the ubiquitous bottle- never far from Sam!

yum

2008-04-28T15:45:00.000-07:00

Whoops!

2008-04-28T15:40:00.000-07:00

Heretofore to be labeled "the asparagus incident," it started innocently enough, Sam sitting on Aunt Bari's lap during dinner, when Sam thought he might like to try asparagus. And grilled potatoes, and bread, and leeks. He made a dive for the flank steak, but I had to draw the line, somewhere. It was so funny that we just let him play, I was excited that he was refining his palate and trying new things. Then I remembered that he was 5 months old and spent the next day looking for suspicious rashes.

Feeding Frenzy!

2008-04-24T15:35:00.000-07:00

I have eaten rice cereal, bananas, and avocados. I have eyed sweet potatoes suspiciously. I now enjoy grabbing my spoon from mommy and trying to feed myself. It's a work in progress. I also enjoy gumming zweiback biscuits.

Where's the Dead Show?

2008-04-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

as I have not much hair yet, mommy made me wear this silly bandana

2008-04-23T15:57:00.000-07:00

cute baby!

2008-04-23T15:48:00.000-07:00

It's the playoffs, bitches!! make your free throws!!

2008-04-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

Every year, it's the same old thing. Poor Houston. The one year I am finally rooting for them, and they are getting their shiny red butts handed to them by one of my two nemesis teams, the Utah Jazz. (The other team surprisingly, is no longer the LA Lakers but the dreaded Dallas Mavericks.) You would think with all that build up you would spend a lot of time practicing free throws. But NO! And Houston (and my beloved Rick Adelman) will be once again eliminated from the playoffs in the first round. My team this year will be the New Orleans Hornets. I am psyched for Peja to get another shot at a title, I loves me some Bonzi, and Chris Paul is phenomenal. I would root for the Hawks if they had a snowball's chance in hell to beat the Celtics. Sorry Mike Bibby, maybe next year!

We had a lovely Passover in the Bay Area! Sinead was invaluable in and out of the car with Sam, and Sam enjoyed seeing his mom's side of the family! He had his first sleepover with Aunt Nadine and Uncle David, and was a really good boy! Grandpa Steve got him a super suave Hawaiian outfit that he cant wait to rock this summer at the river, and Beebee made him laugh the longest and hardest I have ever seen him laugh!

Mandi was a wonderful hostess, and we really enjoyed meeting cousin Bandit! Mandi made me laugh harder than Sam! But, alas! no product this time. Not like there is anywhere to wear makeup here, anyway!

We are happy to be home in beautiful Orleans, though. It poured today, so we could not play outside, but Pam sent us the last 3 episodes of Jericho (!) (Justen, where's my Survivor?) and we have Dexter on netflix. Oh, and BASKETBALL!!

Another thing.....

2008-04-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

I was just re- reading some of my old posts and read that I wrote that Sam does not like to be naked. Hoo boy was i off the mark with that one. This kid cries every morning when I try to put a t- shirt on him, much less pajamas with the dreaded feet. And the biggest smile is when we take his feet out of the feetie part of the pj's. He does not even like to be covered in a blanket at night. Jeff and I are certain it is residual angst from "the swaddling period", when we used to wrap him up so tight at night so his flailing self would not wake him up. But we had to give that up because he wiggled all night so much that he still has a bald spot on the back of his head, so now we just suffer with the wiggling, and it is pretty intense wiggling. I gave up on the crib last night, partially because I was lonely and mostly cause I did not want to keep getting up every five minutes, and by the time Sam fell asleep (for the hour he slept) he was sideways and every time I turned over to check on him I got a baby fist in my eyeball.
So no, we are eagerly looking forward to summer when no clothes will be required.

Say Cheese!

2008-04-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

What did you do today? I made cheese! Can you believe it! It was just Queso Blanco and it was really just hot milk and vinegar, and, truth be told, I have not tasted it yet, but, come on! Cheese! I am going to try the 30 minute mozzarella recipe next. I have just read "Animal Vegetable Miracle" by Barbara Kingsolver and, while I am not quite ready to eat completely local, or, for that matter, raise my own livestock, but I am definitely inspired to try little things!
So yes, every day I am loving it here a little more. Its so weird to go to sleep and hear frogs croaking and my nieces still outside and running around instead of ambulances and beer can, bum projected shopping carts. Janet has been kind enough to let me cook a lot, and I have had some big successes, mostly my pizzas, which have gotten strong accolades, my hummus and homemade pita- always the first thing gone at a party, and most recently, random pimento cheese (pronounced, as I was told by a Texan, 'pimmennacheese') that I made for book club where we needed to bring a southern dish.
Sam has a little cough, so he is a little more miserable than normal, and I have had to bear the brunt because my dear husband is at (allegedly his last) A comic book convention in Portland. I have not slept for 2 days. At least Janet, Bari Gail and the girls have been such wonderful, huge helps. Jeff gets home tonight, and I hope he is ready to stay up because I am going to SLEEP! I was so frustrated at 4 am this morning when Sam rolled over, wide awake, and smiled at me that I just gave up and we watched "The Departed."
We are getting very excited for our trip to San Fransisco this weekend!
Oh, and Brian sent me a long email, so we can all be nice to him again.
And, happy day, in what has bee a huge basketball void, Sam and I were able to catch the end of the cluster*#%@ that was the Lakers/ Spurs game. How far I have come, I was actually rooting for the Lakers!
Cheers.

Boo Hiss

2008-04-10T12:03:00.001-07:00

This is a public reprimand to Brian who has not e mailed me in 2 weeks. Shame on you!

Sleepy Mommy

2008-04-09T14:58:00.000-07:00

We are trying our hardest to crib train Samwise, but he is fighting it. Last night he slept in the crib from 8:30 till about 10:45, then again from 2 till 5:30, the longest stretch yet. And today, under great protest, he even took a nap in the crib. This is essential because I have been walking around like a zombie, because I am having a hard time getting back to sleep after putting Sam down. Between the huge logs being sawed by my dear husband, and trying to listen to the next room to make sure Sam is still breathing, plus all that is going on in my head, I manage to toss and turn until literally the second that Sam wakes back up. Oh well.
I am very excited because it seems like I have a lot of catering opportunities coming up. That is something I have always wanted to do so I am looking forward to seeing how it is going to pan out. This weekend I am going to observe my future partner, Nancy, as she caters an event. We have one that we will be doing together at the end of the month, and then in May I will have a 3 day event of about 100 people all to myself! Perhaps that is what is keeping me up at night?

nadine's website

2008-04-03T13:28:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, go visit my sister Nadine's website!
http://www.tvnewsnadine.com/index.htm

Routines

2008-04-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

Things have settled down into a pretty comfortable routine here in Orleans. We just wish that Sam would sleep better. We think he might be teething, clues would be that he chews constantly on his whole little fist and the constant drooling, not to mention the crankiness.He loves being around his cousins, and he seems to be happiest when surrounded by a flurry of activity. I, on the other hand, seem to be constantly exhausted. Jeff has been wonderful helping out during the night, and even letting me sleep in some mornings, but it just seems like I can never catch up. Sam also likes to be outside, which is great now that the weather has turned nice. We walk outside in his stroller, and go on the swings at Bari's house. I think that he just cant wait to be a big kid and go go go. Soon enough.

bananas

2008-03-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

Bananas. Bananas. Sam likes Bananas. Go go bananas. We tried avocado. We tried rice cereal. But nothing elicited the happy reaction that mashed bananas did this morning! I think that, aside from what was on his hair, the floor and his shirt, Sam managed to eat about a sixth of a banana.
So we are really enjoying living here. Jeff has been working every day, and Sam and I have our routine, we bake, we take walks, we play, we listen to music. We had dinner with Bari, Kurt and the rest of the family on Easter Sunday, and it was really nice. I made orange chocolate chip cupcakes with a ganache frosting and I made candied orange peel to put on top, and I made an apple pie. I used a different crust recipe that I usually do, and I made it in the food processor for the first time, so I was a little frustrated with it (the Cuisinart was supposed to make it easier) but it turned out delicious anyway.
I also made really great pizzas, a pizza stone really helps. For Nancy's party last week I made my usual "vat o'hummus", but I made my own pita bread and that was a big hit.
I know this blog is starting to sound like "food food food" but really, I hardly watch TV anymore (mores the pity, I know) so i just pretty much cook.
However, I have been watching "Top Chef", I love when Tony Bourdain is a guest judge. Also "The Riches" on FX is super good, though I have not quite forgiven FX for the season finale of "Nip/Tuck." How an I supposed to wait a year to find out what happened to Sean?
Jeff and I are pretty bummed that we missed the final 3 episodes of "Jericho" It was one of my favorites and it was so tense and good. Maybe someone (Pam?) has on demand and can tape us the final 3 episodes?
So now I am going to check NBA.com and see how my Blazers are doing. I can't wait for the playoffs!! 40 games in 40 nights!!

Yes, I am alive

2008-03-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

And was getting super frustrated because I can't blog from my in- law's computers, but here I am at the computer center, raring to go!
So, whats going on! We have been in Orleans for a little more than 2 weeks now, and everything is going great. Janet and Barry are in Germany so Jeff, Sam and I are staying in their house, which means I have use of the kitchen, which is fantastic because I have been cooking and baking a lot! I made whole wheat sourdough bread which was like the bread in "About a Boy" that killed a duck because it was so heavy, and soups and brownies and ginger- molasses cookies... Good times! Janet's kitchen is amazing, and her pantry has everything you could think of- even somethings you can't! I will be reading a recipe and it will call for something like zatar or curry leaves, and I'll get up to look for it, and lo and behold there it is!!
There was a band playing in the tribal center last Saturday night, and we got Sinead and Geena to watch Samwise, and went down to hear some music. It was really well timed because I got to meet alot of people in the community, and also see more freaking hippies in one place since the last dead show I went to.
Jeff and I have the apartment in which we will be staying pretty well set up. He built me some shelves, and it looks pretty serviceable and kind of cute, even though after cooking in Janet's kitchen it will be bittersweet to cook in mine, but I am looking forward to it. Next up is to set up the crib, which I think is tonight, wish us luck.
Now for the only sad news- no CBS, and therefore, no Survivor. Thank heavens for my best friend Justen and his trusty VCR, but I still am going to check out TV without Pity to see hats been happening.
So that's whats up. We are doing well, its beautiful, we take walks all the time, we have family close by, its going to be great. I miss my friends, and my internet, and my shower (it was like Kramer's shower in "Seinfeld", so strong!!) but the positives definitely out weigh the negatives. Ill post pictures soon.
Oh! Funny news. We started feeding Samwise solid food, which I think is way more fun for us than it is for him. He is way more interested in eating his bib then rice cereal or avocado. I am not sure he has actually swallowed anything yet, but we are trying.
I miss and love you all!! E- mail me!!
Cheers.

My Sam!

2008-03-03T09:59:00.000-08:00

I am helping daddy use power tools to build boxes for our records!
I love my Aunt Mandi!

Grandpop took me to get portraits taken of me! I am so handsome!

The final countdown!

2008-02-29T14:52:00.000-08:00

One more week to go! We are surrounded by moving boxes, and I am really impressed with myself- I have done a pretty good job, and alot of purging.
Right now Grandpop Steve is here- we are going to get portraits of Samwise taken. Then Aunt Mandi is coming tomorrow. Then the final week. All we have left to do is details- switching insurance, changing addresses, cleaning up. I hate the cleaning up part!
I had a nice farewell party last weekend- not a huge turnout (usual at my get togethers) but the people that came were the ones I really wanted there. The only thing that bummed me out was that my friend Justin could not be there, and that I was WAY to sick to karaoke well. No biggie
Well, it's time to go to the mall and Samwise just woke up from his catnap.

Me and my baby!

2008-02-25T08:53:00.000-08:00

Salaam!

2008-02-25T08:45:00.000-08:00

Beebee bought me this hat in Egypt. we had to stretch it quite a bit so it would fit on my huge head!

Another beautiful day!

2008-02-19T08:26:00.001-08:00

Looks like it is going to be another beautiful day in Portland. To bad me and Samwise are too sick to enjoy it. Yesterday we got out and ran errands, then took a walk around Hawthorne and I introduced Sam to Powells Books, but he was more interested in his bottle, as usual. We walked up and down the street and Sam saw lots of doggies and interesting people. I got him this excersaucer. Its still a bit to big for him but he has been enjoying it.

a different point of view

2008-02-17T11:08:00.000-08:00

This is my friend Caryn's response to the Bibby trade. She makes really good points, so I will calm down and get over it. Happy birthday to me!!

"atlanta is super up and coming - sorta like the blazers. i actually like the trade for him. he'll be the veteran guy and it's not like sacramento is doing anything spectacular this season. plus, let's face it, bibby only has a few more good years in him before he starts coming off the bench and retiring. the trade's been in the works for a while. a lot of the guys who were primo players when we started getting in to basketball are getting older. the window of opportunity of greatness in basketball is slim. i mean, all the top tier teams know their chances are now, like phoenix and dallas. hence phoenix's trade for shaq, l.a.'s trade for gasol (HA! what a steal!) and that f*** up trade dallas is trying to make to get jason kidd. this is all great for portland. get all the young guys out of our league and open it up next season for oden and the young blazers to kick some serious ass in the western conference.
but, he's still mike bibby and i still love him.
gobibbygo!"

Mike Bibby

2008-02-16T18:54:00.000-08:00

You will be missed!

A Sad Day

2008-02-16T18:51:00.001-08:00

I was just on NBA.com, where I found out the sad news that my beloved Mike Bibby, my cars' namesake, has been traded from the crappy Sacramento Kings to the even more craptastic Atlanta Hawks. Right before my birthday. Bunk.

My birthday

2008-02-16T17:09:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is my 34th birthday. EEK! People have been asking me what I want for this landmark event. Do you know what I want? 3 hours to myself to sit at a coffee shop with all of my accumulated crossword puzzles and a latte in the sunshine with my ipod. Guess what? I'm going to get it, like it or not. Time is running out for indulgences of this kind because soon there will not be a coffee shop to go too, and all my crossword puzzles will have to be (slowly) downloaded from a computer. I guess this is what concerns me most of all about the imminent move. I feel like I won't have an escape scenario when I just want to wander Target or sit with a coffee. Not having a lot of friends to hang out with does not worry me too much cause I don't really have many friends with whom to hang, except Justin who I rarely see anymore and my once a week time with Brian. Ironically, in a town with no people I am worried about how I am going to have alone time. I guess I will just have to re-define what alone means, and find other thingd to do. Hike, I guess. Which, let's be honest, would be better for me than sitting on my ass paying for a $4 latte at a coffee shop.
It's All Star Weekend, so I will also indulge in a little basketball!

We are ready for baseball season!

2008-02-13T16:43:00.000-08:00

I know that this outfit makes Samwise look huge, its just that the shirt is big and he is at a weird angle. Oh, and because he is freaking huge! We just went to the doctor and he is in the 90th percentile for length and the 80th for head size. and right at the top for weight. We went to hear Dr. Ed talk about vaccinations last night, and there were so many tiny delicate babies there, and then Sam. Hopefully there is a basketball career waiting for him.

We got our DTap shot today, and Sam was very brave. I on the other hand was a wreck, I don't like to see anyone sticking needles into my baby and making him scream. To Sam's credit, he cried for a few minutes and then was smiling again. I am glad Jeff was not there. He is NOT GOOD with needles.

On Sunday I am going to be 34 years old. I finally feel like an adult. I guess I have to be with two boys to take care of!!

Sports Center

2008-02-10T13:09:00.000-08:00

WTF? Shaq traded to Phoenix? Why does the fastest team in the NBA need a 300 pound, 36 year old meanderer who lumbers up and down the court on bad toes and can't make free throws for a kajillion dollars? KAZAAM!! Also, whats up with the Blazers? It was literally painful to watch the last few games. 10 turnovers in a quater? Again I ask WTF?

We just watched the MOST AWESOME documentary that I taped last night from VH1 about Air Guitar. Words fail, but sufficed to say Jeff and I were both in tears and hysterics from all THE ROCK!!!! It follows two guys- "C-Diddy" and "Bjorn Toroque" on their quest to be Air Guitar champions of the world. I saved it, so anyone that lives close who wants to come over and watch it again with me- please do, this movie is meant to share.

I am baking brownies right now with Sam. Actually, Sam fell asleep as we were rocking to Sisters of Mercy.

The search is over

2008-02-09T11:43:00.000-08:00

Did you ever hear a song once, like 15 or 20 years ago, and then spend the rest of your life searching for it, humming bars to people and hoping to heaven someone would know what you were talking about, but to no avail? Doomed to spend the rest of your life forever singing the same 4 words of catchy chorus that you remember? Then, one day you turn on the digital music station on TV to the "retroactive" channel, so you can dance around the room with your son, when- lo and behold- just when you had given up forever, there it was!! "I Beg your Pardon" by some random band named "Kon Kan" that I never even remember hearing about? The irony is, when the song came on, and I got very quiet- the artist was not showing, and I thought "It figures, I finally hear this stupid song and I will still never figure out who it is" but then the name came up. So 5 days later when I finally got a chance, I downloaded it from Itunes and now I will have the extended 12 inch dance mix forever!! I already listened to it 6 times today. Heavenly Bliss!! Got to get working on those mix cd's for my solo drive with Sam to Orleans!

Out of practice

2008-02-04T09:11:00.000-08:00

Goodness, it's been a week since I have written. It isn't like I am terribly busy or anything, I just got out of practice, and there are more pressing things to be done. For instance, we have started packing for our immenint move, thinking that if we attack it piecemeal it will be less painful. Every time I move, I think "this time will be the time when I purge all the stuff I have not looked at or used for years," but somehow that 13 year old bottle of Campari or ugly set of dishes shows up, ready to be packed a second time. Well, not this time!! Ok, well, maybe the Campari, because you never know when you'll need it.
What else... Oh, we saw some really excellent movies lately- "No Country for Old Men," which was amazing, and then we got "Pan's Labirynth" on DVD and I was blown away. We have been watching "Breaking Bad" on A&E, it's about a terminally ill high school chemistry teacher who starts making crystal meth, and it's pretty interesting, and of course "Survivor- Micronesia fans vs faves" starts thursday. AOOOOOOOO!
Nadine and David came to visit, that was awesome, everyone else is coming soon in stages, It's so fun to see their faces when they see how big Samwise has gotten since they saw him last. Jeff weighed him last night again, and if the scale is to be believed he is 18 pounds. I think most of it is his head. But he gets cuter and more fun every day.

Sam in his Velour track suit

2008-01-28T09:07:00.000-08:00

At the mall with Aunt Nadine.

Sam I Am

2008-01-24T18:54:00.000-08:00

Sushi!!

2008-01-22T09:27:00.000-08:00

Brian and I went to Saburo yesterday night for sushi. It was so yummy! We got there at 6:45 and had to stand outside in the freezing cold for an hour before we got seated at the tiny table right next to the door with waiting people's asses in our face, but it was totally worth it. The. Best. Sushi. Ever. End of story.Then we went to the Galaxy to celebrate Justen's birthday. Whoops! Sam's awake. Gotta go!

Culinary Genuis part deux

2008-01-20T11:06:00.000-08:00

We are having a nice mellow weekend. Yesterday we barely left the house. I made faux sausage biscuits and gravy, with that soysage, which is my new favorite product. I have never had real biscuits and gravy before, it just looked like a heart attack on a plate, you know? but the veggie version was pretty good, and got rave reviews from Jeff.
Today Samwise is officially 2 months old. He is a BIG baby! but he is doing all the things he should be doing, and I think he is brilliant! He laughs and rolls over and is alert and sucks his fingers. This morning when I was making breakfast we rocked around the kitchen, and he fell asleep to Run DMC's "It's Tricky"
Today we are also going to take turns going through the line at Fred Meyer as many times as we can because there are in store $5 off coupons for our formula, and that is a great deal, but its only one per customer. I guess it IS tricky.

Smiley Sam

2008-01-17T16:09:00.000-08:00

I know the Blazers lost, but I am happy to hang out with the boys!!

I am a Vegan Culinary Genius

2008-01-16T16:04:00.000-08:00

So I was watching Alton Browns' "Good Eats" the other day, and he was messing around with wonton skins. I enjoy a good potsticker, but how to replicate at home for picky vegan husband? Genius- soy sausage instead of pork!!
To make these you will need:
1 tube of vaguely disturbing soy sausage crumbles, "gimme lean" by lightlife is the brand I used
a few teaspoons of chopped ginger, garlic, and serrano peppers
minced green onions (I omitted these for Brian but the next time I make them I will add them
saute all of that in vegetable oil, sesame oil and red chili oil
add soy sauce, white or rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar to taste.
Cool this mixture, and then put it by scant teaspoons in wonton skins. I experimented with shapes, Ill post pictures after I fry them in 360 degree oil for 5 minutes!
serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
I am making these, along with edamole (guacamole like substance made with edamame instead of avocado from a recipe in Cooking Light Magazine,) crudites and velveeta cheese dip (!!, right? ) for the Blazers- Celtics game that me, Jeff, Brian, Justen and Sam will be watching later. I know the game started at 4:30, but due to the oft lauded wonders of DVR game time is 6:30.
Cheers!