Fresh Cut

May Showers Brings May Flowers?

2009-05-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

On the 1st day of May today, we got a little rain.

It's a bit gloomy, but I love how it freshens the air.

Hockey Seasons Almost Over

2009-05-01T12:14:00.000-07:00

Andrew's last game is this Saturday.
What will we do with ourselves on the weekends now!?

Peanut Butter Milk Chocolate Puddings

2009-01-06T19:18:00.000-08:00

Bon Appétit | January 2009
by Dede Wilson

100% would make it again

yield: Makes 6
Serve the puddings in clear dishes to show off the distinct layers.

ingredients

Peanut butter pudding:
1/2 cup sugar
5 teaspoons cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup creamy (smooth) natural peanut butter (made with only peanuts and salt)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate pudding:
6 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons natural unsweetened cocoa powder
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
4 ounces imported milk chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:
1 cup chilled heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon powdered sugar

For Peanut butter pudding:
Whisk first 3 ingredients in large saucepan to blend. Gradually whisk in milk, then cream. Whisk over medium heat until mixture comes to boil. Then boil until thick, whisking constantly, about 30 seconds. Whisk in peanut butter; boil until thick again, whisking often, about 1 minute longer. Remove from heat; whisk in vanilla. Divide pudding among six 1-cup glasses or dishes (generous 1/3 cup each). Chill uncovered while preparing chocolate pudding.

For chocolate pudding:
Whisk first 4 ingredients in heavy large saucepan. Gradually whisk in milk, then cream. Whisk over medium heat until mixture comes to boil. Boil until thick, whisking constantly, about 30 seconds. Add chopped chocolate. Boil until chocolate melts and pudding is thick again, whisking often, 1 to 2 minutes longer. Remove from heat; whisk in vanilla. Cool pudding 5 minutes. Spoon atop peanut butter pudding, dividing equally (about 1/3 cup each). Chill puddings uncovered until cold, at least 2 hours. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and keep chilled.

For topping:
Whisk cream and powdered sugar in medium bowl to soft peaks. Spoon topping onto puddings and serve.

Bah Hum Bug

2008-12-08T15:10:00.001-08:00

My brother is in the hospital. From what his daughter said he could be there for 2 weeks or as long as 3 months. Still waiting to hear something more.

Ahh...aww and he said he didn't care very much for kitties

2008-12-04T09:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-12-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

We had a real nice dinner with Tom & Patty this year.
San Jose 2008

We're Back!

2008-11-20T12:31:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can not believe it's been over a year since our last post. I've been really sick through all that time. I'm excited to start posting again.

Shake Rattle & Roll

2007-10-30T12:10:00.000-07:00

We had an earthquake at 8:05pm!
I got really scared.. thinking about the Loma Pretia one in '89 and what it did.

(CBS 5 / AP / BCN) SAN JOSE A magnitude 5.6 earthquake - the strongest to occur since the infamous 1989 Loma Prieta quake - shook much of the San Francisco Bay Area for about a minute on Tuesday night. There were reports of moderate damage in the South Bay, but no serious injuries.
The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake hit at approximately 8:04 p.m. and was felt widely throughout Northern California, rattling homes and nerves.

Full Story

Haunted House

2007-10-25T16:16:00.000-07:00

http://www.piratesofemerson.com/

Dates of Operation :
9/28/07 - 10/31/07. Visit our web site for closed nights
Hours of Operation :
7pm - 11pm Fri/Sat, 7pm - 10pm other nights
Cost :
$20
Appropriate for :
14 and older
Directions from Major Interstate :
From I-680:West on Automall/Durham Parkway, 1 block turn left on Osgood. Go 1/2 mile and you are at the haunt! From I-880:East on Automall/Durham Parkway. About a mile and right on Osgood. Go 1/2 mile and you are at the haunt!

Highlights :
SIX attractions in one location - for one price!Free parking, food available.Join us for our 16th season of scares!

Special Events :
Consistently ranked in the top 13 of the Nation!

I would go to this, but im a scardy cat!

Girls Night Out

2007-10-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

The other night, I was invited out for a night with "the girls." I told my husband that I would be home by midnight. "I promise," were my last words.

The hours passed and the margaritas went down way too easily and around 3 a.m. we piled into a cab and headed to our respective homes, quite inebriated.

Just as I walked through the door, the cuckoo clock in the hall started up and cuckooed 3 times!

Realizing that my husband would probably wake up to this, I quickly cuckooed another 9 times. I was quit pleased with myself for coming up with such a quick witted solution to cover up my tardiness. Even with my impaired judgment, I could count 3 cuckoos plus 9 cuckoos equaled 12 cuckoos!

The next morning, my husband asked me what time I got in, and confidently, I replied, "Midnight...like I promised." He didn't even raise and eyebrow and went on reading the morning paper! Phew! Got away with that one!

After a moment, he then replied, "I think we might need a new cuckoo clock."

A bit nervously, I asked him why, to which he responded:

"Well, last night our clock cuckooed 3 times, then said, 'Oh, crap,' cuckooed 4 more times, cleared it's throat, cuckooed another 3 times, giggled, cuckooed twice more, then tripped over the coffee table and farted."

Tic Tac Toe

2007-10-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

Cooking Term "F"

2007-10-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

Fold-
To cut and mix lightly with a spoon to keep as much air in the mixture as possible.

Car Troubles

2007-10-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

An blond was driving home on the freeway after work when she was hit by a hailstorm that left her car completely dented all over. She decided to go to a body shop and asked the owner how much he would charge to remove the dents. Seeing that she was a blond, he winked at his partner, and told her it wouldn't cost anything if she followed his instructions carefully.

She drove home and when her blond roommate came out of the house she found her friend sitting on the ground at the back of the car blowing really hard in the tail pipe.

"What on earth are you doing" she asked.

Her friend looking up with big smile and a black ring around her mouth said "The man at the body shop told me that I could save a lot of money on repair work if I blew really hard into the tail pipe. he said that all the dents would pop out"

"Duhhh" said her friend, "but first you have to roll up all the windows!!!"

Cooking Term "E"

2007-10-18T13:44:00.000-07:00

Entrée-
A French term that originally referred to the first course of a meal, served after the soup and before the meat courses. In the United States, it refers to the main dish of a meal.

Falling Down

2007-10-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

Hurts!

Chasing after our "escapeeee's on the loose" cats this morning!

They all ran out the door on Andrew & I.
Dusty didn't get very far Andrew grabed him...Chunk ran up the tree I got him gave him to Andrew to put in the house. Darla ran up the tree trunk half way...and then decided to run behind the garage.. as I ran after her... apparenlty there was a tomatoe cage back there that I didn't notice! I got my foot stuck in it all tangled up in it, I did a body slam into the fence and a full roll.

Ouch...

Ben & Jerry's Halloween

2007-10-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

There is alot of fun stuff on this site..check it out.

[Click on image]

Bittersweet

2007-10-15T13:39:00.001-07:00

I'm not so sure about these fancy looking "EASY" little treats!
They look delicious but when I read the ingredents and it

actually calls for hunks of cheese.. Eww.. cheese & chocolate??

I know, I know it says "cheese" in the tittle..but still....

I came across them over at BHG, my favorite place for recipes.

I just had to share..haha

1 1/2 to 2 dozen pieces
Prep: 30 minutes Chill: 15 minutes
View Nutrition Facts
Ingredients
4 ounces French Mimolette, aged (dry) Jack, and/or white cheddar cheese
3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
3 tablespoons finely chopped dried mango, dried apricot, or finely chopped pistachio nuts
Directions
1. Cut cheese into bite-size chunks; set aside.
2. In a heavy small saucepan melt chocolate over low heat, stirring constantly. Dip each cheese piece into chocolate, coating bottom half of cheese. Allow excess chocolate to drip off. Sprinkle with chopped dried fruit or pistachio nuts. Place each piece in a paper candy cup. Chill, uncovered, 15 minutes or until chocolate is set. (If not serving immediately, place chocolate-dipped cheese in covered containers and store in the refrigerator up to 24 hours. Let stand at room temperature 15 minutes before serving.) Makes 1-1/2 to 2 dozen pieces.

Burnout?

2007-10-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

I hope Vince doesn't get hockey burnout this season!

He is assistant coaching both boys teams, Mondays, Tuesdays & Saturdays.

Then there is his Hockey on Fridays as well.... Wow that's alot of hockey!..again....

Kissing Fish

2007-10-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

The Bathtub Test

2007-10-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

It doesn't hurt to take a hard look at yourself from time to time, and this should help get you started:
During a visit to the mental asylum, a visitor asked the Director what the criterion was which defined whether or not a patient should be institutionalized.
"Well," said the Director, "we fill up a bathtub, then we offer a teaspoon,a teacup and a bucket to the patient and ask him or her to empty the bathtub."
"Oh, I understand," said the visitor. "A normal person would use the bucket because it's bigger than the spoon or the teacup."
"No." said the Director, "A normal person would pull the plug. Do you want a bed near the window?"

Corn Quotes

2007-10-15T09:50:00.000-07:00

"It is not elegant to gnaw Indian corn. The kernels should be scored with a knife, scraped off into the plate, and then eaten with a fork. Ladies should be particularly careful how they manage so ticklish a dainty, lest the exhibition rub off a little desirable romance."Charles Day, 1844

"...corn provided infant America with a backbone while it was developing the use of its legs. America was growing, quite literally, up the cornstalk."Dorothy Giles, 'Singing Valleys: The Story of Corn'

"The greatest drawback is the way in which it is necessary to eat it.....It looks awkward enough: but what is to be done? Surrendering such a vegetable from considerations of grace is not to be thought of."Harriet Martineau, an Englishwomen, on corn on the cob (1835).

"Sex is good, but not as good as fresh sweet corn." Garrison Keillor

Harvest

2007-10-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Pound Cake

2007-10-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Compliments of: Better Homes and Gardens.com

More rich and colorful than a typical pumpkin cake, and more flavorful than a pound cake, this recipe is perfect for your next holiday get-together.

14 to 16 servings
Prep: 20 minutes Bake: 1 hour
View Nutrition Facts
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup shortening
2 eggs
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 15-ounce can pumpkin
1 cup raisins
1 cup chopped pecans or other nuts
1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
Orange juice (optional)
Coarse sugar (optional)
Maraschino cherries (optional)

Directions
1. In a large mixing bowl beat granulated sugar, brown sugar, shortening, and eggs with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. In a medium mixing bowl stir together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Add flour mixture and pumpkin alternately to shortening mixture, beating on low speed after each addition until combined. Stir in raisins, nuts, and cherries.

2. Turn batter into a greased and floured 10-inch fluted tube pan. Bake in a 350 degree F oven about 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack. Brush with orange juice and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. Garnish with maraschino cherries, if desired. Makes 14 to 16 servings.
Make-Ahead Tip: Refrigerate cake, covered, up to 3 days. Or freeze, wrapped in foil, up to 2 months.

Cooking Term "D"

2007-10-13T13:42:00.000-07:00

Dash-
A measure approximately equal to 1/16 teaspoon.

Pumpkin Facts

2007-10-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

99% of all pumpkins are sold for decorations.When Howard Dill of Ontario, Canada, known as the Pumpkin King, sent one of his championship pumpkins to the U.S. for a competition, customs officials called drug agents, not believing that there could be a 616 pound pumpkin in the crate.

Championship pumpkins today are over 800 pounds. These pumpkins grow 10 to 15 pounds per day!

Pumpkin halves were supposedly used as guides for haircuts in colonial New Haven, Connecticut, giving rise to the nickname 'pumpkinhead.'

Total U.S. pumpkin production in 2003 was 805 million pounds. Illinois, with a production of 326 million pounds, led the country. There also were big pumpkin patches in California (150 million pounds produced), Pennsylvania (117 million), New York (107 million) and Michigan (60 million). The value of all these pumpkins was $81 million.US Census Bureau, October, 2004

October is...

2007-10-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

National Breast Cancer Awarness Month

My Grandmother and My Mom are both Breast Cancer Survivors!

Roses

2007-10-11T13:20:00.000-07:00

require special care in the fall. In early fall, suspend fertilization. Continuing to fertilize causes new growth that could be killed by winter's cold. After foliage drops, spray with fungicide, then cover plants with a minimum of 8" of loose, well-drained soil, mulch or compost. Prune canes back to 36" to prevent damage from winter winds.

Popcorn Balls

2007-10-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

Ingredients :
2 ½ quarts popped popcorn
1 14-oz package light caramels
1/4 cup light corn syrup
2 table spoons water
Preparation :
Keep popcorn warm in a 200 degree oven. Melt caramels in top of double boiler over simmering water. Add corn syrup and water and mix until smooth. Slowly pour over popcorn in a large bowl. Stir to mix well. With greased hands, shape into balls about the size of softballs. Let cool completely before wrapping with plastic wrap.

Both On White Teams

2007-10-10T12:41:00.000-07:00

Kody-Squirts
Andrew-Bantams

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

2007-10-09T13:06:00.000-07:00

Ingredients :
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup fresh or canned pumpkin puree
3 eggs 1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 cup raisins
2 1/3 cups Bisquick
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

Preparation :
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9- by 5-inch loaf pan. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients together with a wooden spoon. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Bake for 45 minutes. Test with a knife-if the knife comes out clean, the bread is ready. If not, put back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes. Cool before removing from the pan. Keep in a plastic bag, in a cover dish in a cool location or in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, cut into slices, then cut out slices with a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter and spread with cream cheese or jam. Serves 12 to 18

Fletching

2007-10-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

On Runescape Slinkle has 91 fletching
woo woo

Pumpkin Fun

2007-09-30T17:29:00.000-07:00

After your pumpkins have formed fruit, there are some fun things to do while waiting for them to ripen. While the fruits are small, carve your childs name into the pumpkin. As the fruit grows the name will too. At harvest your childs´ name will be big enough for all to see! Some major garden centers carry scary face molds of plastic. You slip these on the young fruit, and it molds the face right into the pumpkin!

Cooking Term "C"

2007-09-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

Cream
To beat vegetable shortening, butter, or margarine, with or without sugar, until light and fluffy. This process traps in air bubbles, later used to create height in cookies and cakes.

When September Ends

2007-09-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

Summer has come and passed
The innocent can never last
wake me up when september ends
like my fathers come to pass
seven years has gone so fast
wake me up when september ends
here comes the rain again
falling from the stars
drenched in my pain again
becoming who we are
as my memory rests
but never forgets what I lost
wake me up when september ends

Green Day

Cooking Term "B"

2007-09-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

Bake-
To cook in the oven. Food is cooked slowly with gentle heat, causing the natural moisture to evaporate slowly, concentrating the flavor.

Disgusting & Disturbing News

2007-09-26T11:33:00.000-07:00

It's not very often do we hear on the local news something like this. In Sacramento, CA a young man and his infant son were shot to death in their home. Someone actually shot the 7 month old baby in the head. This is the kind of stuff that actually outrages me. You got a problem with someone take it up with that person, shoot them?..hell no...shoot an innocent child...ummmm I don't think so...my god no!
This makes me want to vomit.
Full Story

Funny of The Day

2007-09-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

Other Blogs

2007-09-26T11:07:00.001-07:00

As I sit here waiting for another load of laundry to dry, I am surfing blogs..my goodness haha...I came across one blog that the spelling was so bad ..I mean really bad, not just some typos like me..I mean really, really bad. I could barely decipher any of it, excpet for the bad words. I recently signed up for Blogcatalog, in hopes of being able to find some quality, interesting and filtered by topic blogs. So far this site seems to be better than what I've used to surf blogs in the past.

The Little Fox Theater

2007-09-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

in Redwood City is absolutely the best place on the Peninsula to whet your musical appetite. From the latest in music to rock classics and everything in between, you'll appease your craving for live music at one of their great shows!

2209 Broadway, Redwood City, CA 94063

Ticket purchase and info number is 650-369-4119 for all shows at the Little Fox.

Tickets also available online at foxdream.com

I took these pictures at one of the shows last year. Above the lead singer for the Led Zeppelin Tribute band Heartbreaker & below the Tribute band to Lynyrd Skynyrd, Saturday Night Special

I was really impressed and emotionally moved by "BOTH" of these tribute bands.
I almost started to cry when the Lynard Skynard Band sang Free Bird..I got the chills. That song was dedicated to my Aunt Noelle who passed away back in 1983. It was her favorite song.

Then when Heartbreaker band came out, it felt and sounded like the real thing. The Robert Plant wanna be, not only sounded like him, but that whole group played them as well. I laughed everytime he flicked his hair outta his face just as plant used to do, and all the crazy little moves he'd make.

For anyone who is/or was a big Led Zepplin fan, go check these guys out, It's worth it!

Chocolate Chunk

2007-09-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Here is my favorite chocolate cookie recipe.

Chocolate Chunk Shortbread

3/4 Butter, softened
1/2 C Confectioners (powered) sugar
1 C Flour
3/4 of a bag of Nestle's "real semi-sweet" Chocolate chunks

In mixing bowl cream butter and sugar. Gradually adding the flour. Stir in the chocolate pieces.
Place a tabelspoon size cookie dough kinda molding it into a ball on an ungreased cookie sheet, about 2 inches apart or so.

Bake at 350 for 10-12 mintues.

I normally cook them until I barely see them browning on the bottoms of the cookies. I take them out of the oven but leave them on the cookie sheet for a minute or two, then I slide them off onto a wire rack. Being very careful not to make them fall apart. If they feel like they will fall apart leave them on the hot cookie sheet until they harden a bit.

Enjoy!

God Has Kept Me Here For A Reason

2007-09-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

I survived because He has a plan for me. All my bad relationships, the bad credit, the repossessions, the death of my loved ones, the back stabbing from my friends, the negative thoughts, or the lack of support; I made itbecause I am blessed! I release and let go of all past hurts, misunderstandings and grudges because I am blessed! I recognize them as the illusions they are, for God is all there is. All else is a lie!Now give yourself a hug, wipe your tears and walk in victory!!!!!!!! Ilove you, but more appropriately God loves you BEST! Be blessed andknow that you are at one with THE SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD!And may the Lord keep watch between you and me when we are away fromeach other. Genesis 31:49. Amen!

Most E-mailed Photos On Yahoo

2007-09-24T09:38:00.000-07:00

Reuters - Thu Sep 20, 8:18 PM ET A veterinarian holds a 7-week-old Giant Panda cub during her weekly physical exam at San Diego Zoo's Giant Panda Research Station September 20, 2007. REUTERS/Ken Bohn/San Diego Zoo/Handout (UNITED STATES).

AP - Sun Sep 23, 8:41 AM ET A Bavarian boy takes a nap in the hand cart pulled by his parents during the tradtional folklore parade on the second day of the Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich , Sunday, Sept. 23, 2007. (AP Photo/Diether Endlicher) Email Photo Print Photo

Sunday Evening

2007-09-23T21:30:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead.
G'night

Bullies

2007-09-23T18:52:00.001-07:00

are not only on the playground these day, they are showing up at the work place.

Here are some great resources and reads on the subject:

When the boss is a bully

Beating a bullying boss

Workplace Bullying Institute

I wish I would have these links before.

One of the reasons why I quit my job last July was because of a workplace Beep, Beepin, beeper, beep, bully of a boss I had.

I feel so much better now :)

I hope no one has to go through what I did as an adult let alone as a child.

Favorite Fall Plants

2007-09-23T17:39:00.000-07:00

Annuals When days shorten and nights get cool, these plants thrive.Arctotis: Bright, daisylike flowers, silvery foliage, and a neat habit distinguish this plant; also try Osteospermum -- it is similar but has rounded petals and a wider palette.

Cabbage, chard, kale, and kohlrabi: These intriguing, richly textured vegetables range from blue-gray to pink and purple.

Cardoon: This artichoke relative's large, silvery-blue foliage makes a pretty accent.

Perennials Mix these with annuals; they can be replanted in the border before the ground freezes.

Ajuga: This slow-to-spread ground cover is a surprising container plant; 'Chocolate Chip' has mounds of shiny purple foliage.

Ferns: Choose evergreen or semievergreen varieties of these shade lovers, such as leather wood, Japanese holly, or Christmas.

Grasses: There are grasses to suit any style: Festuca glauca 'Elijah Blue' has spiky mounds; Carex testacea boasts burnt-orange foliage.

Heuchera: Colorful foliage on these shade plants stays dense in fall; try 'Plum Pudding.'

Ivy: Consider yellow 'Gold Heart,' gray-green 'Pedata,' or gold-and-green 'Golden Ingot.'

Sedum: Masses of colorful, star-shaped flowers characterize this plant.

Woody Plants Keep these in pots year-round or replant in the garden.

Dwarf conifers: These lend soft texture. Cryptomeria japonica 'Compressa' has rounded gray foliage that turns golden in fall; chamaecyparis is deliciously fragrant.

Japanese maple: This tree has many cultivars: Its fall foliage varies from burgundy to red. Look for Acer palmatum 'Sharp's Pygmy.'

Red osier dogwood: Stems on red- and yellow-twig dogwoods are most vivid in fall.

Spiraea: Profuse spring blooms give way to red, orange, and yellow leaves in autumn.

Fall & Winter Gardening

2007-09-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

Many people see the fall and winter as a time to close down the garden and wait until the spring to start up gardening activities again. However, there are plenty of things you can be doing through the fall and winter months to continue enjoying the pleasures of gardening.

Fall and early winter is a great time to plant bulbs. Bulbs can often be the first flowers to bloom in late winter and early spring. Some of the best bulbs for planting in the fall and winter include daffodils, day lilies, iris, tulips, and ranunculus. Get out and get your hands dirty planting bulbs so that you’ll be rewarded with color in the spring!

Pogo

2007-09-23T14:57:00.000-07:00

I'm playing free poker with my sis who lives in another city.Isn't the internet an amazing place?! Gotta love it!
~S
www.pogo.com

Cooking Term "A"

2007-09-23T13:02:00.000-07:00

Al dente
"To the tooth," in Italian. The pasta is cooked just enough to maintain a firm, chewy texture.

Birthday

2007-09-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

Happy sweet 16th Birthday Teri.
We hope you have a wonderful day....We love you!

Inner Peace

2007-09-21T18:23:00.000-07:00

Dr. Phil proclaimed, "The way to achieve inner peace is to finish all
the things you have started and never finished."

So, I looked around my house to see all the things I started and
hadn't finished, and before leaving the house this morning, I finished off
a bottle of Merlot, a bottle of Zinfandel, a bottle of Bailey's Irish
Cream, a bottle of Kalhua, a package of Oreos, the remainder of my old
Prozac prescription, the rest of the cheesecake, some Doritos and a box
of chocolates.

You have no idea how freaking good I feel right now.

UFO's

2007-09-21T15:02:00.000-07:00

Do you beleive?

Photo Friday-Beach

2007-09-21T08:18:00.001-07:00

This will be the last Photo Friday we post on this blog.
To view our photos go to: PhotoFridayChallenge

Kitty Galore

2007-09-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

Nicole and I decided to make a scrapbook for all the cats we've had in our liftime. A page per cat. I will be digging up some old photos of them. Here is the list so far..hope we didn't forget any. Nicole was great for bringing strays home. She knew I was a softy in this department and I couldn't say no to her!

Friskey
Power princess
Pita
Mousers
Mama Cat
Rafiki
Rat Dog
Smokey
Mittens
Casper
Dusty Valentino
Chunk
Darla

"Cats leave paw prints on our hearts"

Memorial

2007-09-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

[click on image to enlarge]

The most controversial hillsides in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Located on Deer Hill Road overlooking the Lafayette BART Station and Highway 24.

The number 3780 along with the cross's mark the deaths of all the fallen solder's in Iraq.

Personally, I do not see anything wrong with it.
It's a statement of fact.

Could there be more laying beneath the hillside some think is an "eyesore", "graveyard of some sort" "depressing" or that it could potentially cause an accident
if someone is looking at it and not paying attention to the road, and sorry to interrupt your quiet perfect little neighborhood theory, Oh I'm sure there is.

What more could be the reasons people want to see it removed?

I understand about the sacrifices our hero's have made.
Some families feel as if these solders go on unnoticed, abandoned, lack recognition & attention.
How can we offer more of what these families need, besides being able to return their loved one?

I'm a very sensitive human being a realist of sort. Have I thought about loosing a child to war? Yes.
As hard as it would be to cope I couldn't even imagine, I would have to never lose sight of "how & why" they died.
This world has "hero's" & "cowards"..I'd be proud my child choose the 1st and being able to serve for this country's existant should make any parent proud forever.

One father was upset that the organizer did not get permission to put his
deceased sons name on a cross. He removed the name, but left the cross.

Freedom isn't free! If you don't believe me, go read your history books.

I truly support our men and woman of the armed forces
who obviously risk and lose their lives to protect the lives of many and our beautiful country.

VH

2007-09-18T10:30:00.001-07:00

My all time favorite Band ever..Van Halen. (Dave Era)

I never thought I would live to see this.

Football

2007-09-17T15:17:00.000-07:00

Andrew made 1st cuts for 8th grade!
We're so happy for him.

Hockey Season '07-'08

2007-09-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

The boys started Ice Hockey this week.

Try To Remember

2007-09-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

Try to remember the kind of September
When life was slow and oh so mellow
Try to remember the kind of September
When grass was green and grain so yellow
Try to remember the kind of September
When you were a young and a callow fellow
Try to remember and if you remember
Then follow--follow, oh-oh

- by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt

Autumn Bread

2007-09-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

* 2/3 cup shortening
* 3 cups sugar
* 4 eggs, well beaten
* 1 1/4 cups cooked pumpkin
* 2/3 cup water
* 3 1/2 cups flour
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon cloves
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 2 teaspoons baking soda
* Chopped nuts (optional)

Mix all ingredients together and pour into two greased loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 1 hour.

Weird News

2007-09-17T13:08:00.000-07:00

Man Dies After Three Days Online

BEIJING (Sept. 17) - A man in southern China appears to have died of exhaustion after a three-day Internet gaming binge , state media said Monday.

The 30-year-old man fainted at a cybercafe in the city of Guangzhou on Saturday afternoon after he ha been playing games online for three days, the Beijing News reported.

Paramedics tried to revive him but failed and he was declared dead at the cafe, it said. The paper said that he may have died from exhaustion brought on by too many hours on the Internet.

The report did not say what the man, whose name was not given, was playing.

The report said that about 100 other Web surfers "left the cafe in fear after witnessing the man's death."

China has 140 million Internet users, second only to the United States. It is one of the world's biggest markets for online games, with tens of millions of players, many of whom hunker down for hours in front of PCs in public Internet cafes.

Several cities have clinics to treat what psychiatrists have dubbed "Internet addiction" in users, many of them children and teenagers, who play online games or surf the Web for days at a time.

Home Sick

2007-09-17T12:57:00.000-07:00

Andrew was not feeling well at school today.
I had to go pick him up. Last year he missed a lot of school.
I thought perhaps it was due to over crowding and eating cafeteria food.
Figures school starts back up and he's sick again!
He made the football team again this year and is very upset
that he is going to miss out on practice!

Vampire Kiss Martini

2007-09-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

I thought these were so cute!

1 part vodka, chilled
1 part Champagne
1 part Chambord
Garnish with wax teeth/candy corn/blood orange slice

Pour vodka in a martini glass, top with Champagne and pour a little of the Chambord over the back of a spoon to make it float.

Courtesy of Sweet & Spooky With Sandra Lee of Food Network.com

Autumn

2007-09-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

I've always called this Fall.
This has always been my favorite time of year.

Something about the air getting cooler, the month

I was born. I get that hunker down feeling.

Quote 10

2007-09-17T09:43:00.000-07:00

"Things aren't as valuable as experiences, no matter how much they cost"

BFF

2007-09-16T21:04:00.000-07:00

Lafayette Art & Wine Festival

Great Truths...

2007-09-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

About Life that Adults Have Learned

Raising teenagers is like nailing JELLO to a tree.

There is always a lot to be thankful for if you take time to look for it. For example, I am sitting here thinking how nice it is that wrinkles don't hurt.

One reason to smile is that every seven minutes of every day, some hardbody in an aerobics class pulls a hamstring.

The best way to keep kids at home is to make the home a pleasant atmosphere and let the air out of their tires.

Car sickness is the feeling you get when the monthly car payment is due.

Families are like fudge .. mostly sweet with a few nuts.

Laughing helps. It's like jogging on the inside.

Middle age is when you start choosing your cereal for the fiber, not the toy.

My mind not only wanders, sometimes it leaves completely.

If you can remain calm, you just don't have all the facts.

You know you're getting old when you stoop to tie your shoes and wonder what else you can do while you're down there.

Names

2007-09-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

S is for Smooth
T is for Tasty
A is for Adaptable
C is for Complicated
E is for Elegant
Y is for Yummy

Although the name "Stacey" creates the urge to be reliable and responsible, we emphasize that it causes a blunt expression that alienates others. This name, when combined with the last name, can frustrate happiness, contentment, and success, as well as cause health weaknesses through worry, mental tension, and tension or accidents to the head.

Your name of "Stacey" has created a practical, responsible, stable nature, and you desire to direct the efforts of others rather than to take order or ask permission. You have a determined, self-reliant, capable nature and resent any interference, although in your desire to help you are inclined to become involved in the lives and decisions of other people. You like to make your own decisions and to be the master of your domain. You feel a limitation in your own expression when it is necessary to reach another through tact and understanding.

Although the name Vince causes an active mind and a restless urge to explore new ideas, we emphasize that it causes an unscrupulous, materialistic approach that frustrates higher humanitarian qualities.

V is for Visionary
I is for Irresistible
N is for Nervy
C is for Classy
E is for Energetic

This name, when combined with the last name, can frustrate happiness, contentment, and success, as well as cause health weaknesses in the solar plexus and reproductive organs.
The name of Vince creates a very aggressive and independent nature, one with big ambitions, giving you original, progressive, large-scale ideas, salesmanship and promotional ability as well as the excellent business judgment which enables you to gain the financial accumulation to which you feel entitled.

You have a versatile, restless nature, and could do any job well, although you would not like to do menial tasks.

You are seldom satisfied and are always seeking something new.

Ways to tell kids 'I love you'

2007-09-14T09:55:00.000-07:00

Let your children know they're your heroes.

Reward and praise them for good effort, not just results. Remind them that a winner never stops trying.

Turn everyday accomplishments into celebrations. Make a special dinner - with your child as the guest of honor - and toast the loss of a tooth; making the soccer team; getting an A on a history paper, etc.

Teach your children to think positive by being positive. Instead of noting how dirty they are when they come in for dinner, say, "Looks like you had a great time!"

Read "just one more book" even if it's late and you're tired. And don't forget to read to older children who already know how to read themselves. It's a great opportunity to snuggle.

Get out your childrens' baby books and tell them stories about their beginnings.

If you leave the house before your children are awake, leave a trail of Post-its with lipstick kisses leading to a goodbye note.

Spend one-on-one time with each of your children so they know they're special.

Let your children choose their own clothes. It shows you respect their decision-making ability.

Besides, everyone will know you didn't dress them - you'd never mix plaid and stripes!

Get messy with your kids. Climb in that sandbox, dip your hands in the fingerpaints and mush up that clay.

Get to know your child's schedule, friends and teachers so you can ask "Did you and Sam sit together at lunch today?" or "What did Mr. Rogers sing in music class?" instead of simply, "What did you do today?"

Hang out together. You don't always have to do something; just being together in the same room is often enough to open lines of communication.

Teach your children to play jacks, use a yo-yo, knit, or do something you loved as a child.

Let your children put on their boots and jump in the puddles you usually tell them to avoid.

Really listen to your children when they talk. Put down your newspaper, turn off the TV and look them in the eye.

Cut the edges off their sandwiches.

Slip little love notes, jokes, poems and words of encouragement into your children's lunchboxes just to let them know you're thinking about them. (My Favorite)

Let your children overhear you complimenting them to someone else.

Wear the "jewels" your children make for you and display their artwork proudly in a special, visible place.

Try not to do all the things your parents did that you vowed never to do to your children.

When your child makes a mistake, instead of saying, "I told you so," try asking "What lesson can you learn from this?"

Create a secret word, sign or gesture of affection that only you and your child share.

Give your children a true, lifelong gift: roots and wings. If they push for independence, take it as the sign of a job well done.

Forget about yesterday. Start each day fresh. It's a new opportunity to have a better relationship with your children and to fall in love with them all over again.

Hug them, kiss them and say "I love you" at least once a day. Kids thrive on it and it's a daily fix we all need no matter what our age!

Leo & Libra

2007-09-13T12:54:00.000-07:00

We are 87% compatible for one another

Flashback 70's

2007-09-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

My Memories of the 70's.

Ages 5-15

Playing with all the neighborhood kids and not coming in the house until after dark

Peach color gouchos and multi colored striped top

Having an older sister stick up for you
Roller skates
Yankee Doodle
Barbie
Ken
Barbie Camper
JI Joe
Tonka
Wallabies

Waffle Stompers
High School Football games
Mom=hair rollers and bathrobe
Rotary dial bell desk phones
Polywogs
Rope swing
Kings Market
My sisters Chrissie doll (sorry I put baby oil i her hair..pls forgive me!)
Mrs. Beasley
Edgehill
Riding bikes
Rector Cadilaic Ramp
Skateboarding
Truth or Dare
Northpark
Swimming
Delivering Newspapers
Bills Drug Store
Luckys
Noels (Feathered Haircuts)
Goody Combs
Space Food Sticks
On Broadway
Best Friends
Poor Boy Sandwiches
Hello Kitty
Bee Gees
Andy Gibb
Recoder player
Needle replacment
Elvis
Kiss
Barry Manilow
KC & The Sunshine band
Brownies
Girl Scouts
Camp
7-up
Stationwagon
Pinto
Tiger Beat Magazine
Posters
Mad Magazine
Nixon-crook
Ford -boring
Carter-peanuts
Bicentennial Train
Paper Drive-Mc Kinley

Food/Drinks:
Kool-Aide
Tang
Jello
Liverwurst
Salamon Patties
TV Dinners
Stuffed Celery
Cheese sandwiches

Lingo:
"Don't Be Such A spaz"
"Dream On"
"Good night, John-boy"
"Far Out"
"Chill"
"The Man"
"Right On"
"You gotta be Joshin me"
"Say What?"
"Rock On"
"later" or "Later Days" My favs.
"Trippy"
"Your a trip"
"Whatever"
"Small fry"
"Bad"
"Airhead"

TV Shows:
The Gong Show
Sanford & Son
Happy Days
The Muppett Show
The Waltons
The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Bob Newhart
All in the Family
The Brady Bunch
Laverne & Shirley
The Odd Couple
Taxi
Little House on the Prairie
Family Affair
The Partridge Family
Schoolhouse Rock
Seasme Street
HR Puff N Stuff

Movies:
Blazing Saddles
Young Frenkenstein
Willard
Jaws

AMERICAN CULTURAL HISTORY
1970 - 1979

Leave Britney Alone!

2007-09-12T20:05:00.000-07:00

Our next Academy award winner?

Gymnast

2007-09-12T15:20:00.000-07:00

Teri did really well for her 1st competition. She got a few medals!
We are very proud of her.

9.11

2007-09-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

We remember..
September 11th, 2001.
"The world saw evil that day.."

The 2,948 confirmed victims of September 11th 2001 included innocent victims from 84 countries

The youngest victim was 2 years old Christie Hanson - The oldest victim was 85 year old Robert Grant Norton

3,251 children lost a Parent on that day

Freedom through Terror.

we remember, we will always remember.

AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHT 11,
from Boston, Massachusetts, to Los Angeles, California, crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center with 92 people on board.

AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHT 77,
from Washington to Los Angeles, crashed into the Pentagon with 64 people aboard.

UNITED AIRLINES FLIGHT 175,
from Boston, Massachusetts, to Los Angeles, California, was the second hijacked plane to strike the World Trade Center, plowing into the south tower. Two pilots, seven flight attendants and 56 passengers were on board.

UNITED AIRLINES FLIGHT 93
from Newark, New Jersey, to San Francisco, California, crashed in rural southwest Pennsylvania, with 45 people on board.

In loving memory..

.9-11.

Opps, Why Did She Do It Again?

2007-09-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know me, you know I am no fan of the "Bubble Gum Pop Rock Wanna Be Whatever" Ms. Britney Spears.

Unsucessful attempts of redeeming herself since her "pretend" marriage in Vegas, nemerous public meltdowns, unfit parenting, HOB, and now opening for the VMA's.

I was embarrased for her last night.
Her moves and lack of enthusiasm were "Shocking" & "Toxic" to say the least.
-JMO

Other opinons referring to her so called "comeback" at the HOB back in May, I thought I would share:

9 missf : 05/02/2007 at 10:26 am
oh god. thats too cheap looking and toooo trash even for me. whats with the outfits? gross.

13 Dancer : 05/02/2007 at 10:36 am
I don’t get it either–she makes a come back and lip syncs? Didn’t that kill off Milli Vanelli?
If she is truly making a comeback–shouldn’t she be singing and not lip syncing?

"What U See (Is What U Get)"

Rock Of Love

2007-09-10T11:15:00.000-07:00

This is what I call comedy at its best!

Good call on Brandi..eww she threw up at the dinner
table.

I wonder how many cuts Lacey got from falling onto & off
of the bar in his hotel room!

Did Heather use to be Heath back in the day?? Hmmm

[Click to visit Rock of Love website]

I like Jess..even tho shes way to young for him. I believe she's the most sincere. will it last? probally not...

Manhood No More

2007-09-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

I'm taking Chunk to get fixed this morning.

BLCITW

2007-09-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

BLCITW=Biggest Little City In The World=Reno, Nevada

Photo Friday-Purple

2007-09-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

[click on picture to enlarge]

Show Off

2007-09-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

I'm going to enter Dusty in a cat show for
"Household Pet" category in November.

CFA Household Pet Class

Household pets are judged in one group without regard to sex, coat length, age, or color. There is no written standard for Household Pets, although the CFA Show Rules state that they may NOT be declawed, and if they are over eight(8) months of age they must be neutered or spayed. They are judged instead for their uniqueness, pleasing appearance, unusual markings, and sweet dispositions. Each household pet reflecting good health and vitality receives at Merit ward (red/white), and at the end of the judging, the best Household Pets are introduced in a final.

Painted Cookies

2007-09-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

Nicole, Teri and I stamped & hand painted cookies that tasted terrible!
The glitter stuff I purchased was the wrong type for this project.
I personally will stick to stamping/painting my cards.
To preserve what might end up in the garbage, I decided to snap a shot of them.
At least we had alot of fun in the process.
I will upload the pic later.

Birthday 35

2007-08-18T13:43:00.000-07:00

We went to Bancheros for dinner and had a great time!

Happy birthday baby...we hope you had a wonderdul day...love ya!

Summer Vacation 2007

2007-08-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

California Redwoods August 2007

Birthday 14

2007-08-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

Happy 14th Birthday...we love you!!

California Redwoods Here We Come!

2007-08-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

I think we are all very excited about going on Vacation again this summer.
Vince has the kids all freaked out about experiencing a BF encounter.

Our Wish List

2007-07-31T18:29:00.000-07:00

Nikon

Family Campout 2007

2007-07-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

Family Campout Group Photo

2007-07-10T19:37:00.000-07:00

Gram

2007-07-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

Kihncert 2007

2007-06-29T16:05:00.000-07:00

Good Times, as always with Diana!

Lizzybeth

2007-04-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

This song by Collective Soul reminds me of my best friend Liz who died of an asthma attack in 1995, it was one of her favorite groups and song. Ironically, I ran into someone the other day who worked with her at the Marriott for about 3 years, I don't even now this person but I happened to ask being that he said he worked in Millbrae/Burlingame Marriott and said she was always full of life. He loved working with her and that every so often he thinks of her especially when he hears this song

"Shine"
Give me a word Give me a sign Show me where to look Tell me what will I find Lay me on the ground Fly me in the sky Show me where to look Tell me what will I find Oh, heaven let your light shine down Love is in the water Love is in the air Show me where to go Tell me will love be there Teach me how to speak Teach me how to share Teach me where to go Tell me will love be there Oh, heaven let your light shine down

Asthma

2007-03-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

Well another check up for Andrew.
He still isn't 100%
The doc said it's up to him if he wants to play Hockey or not. If it's not fun...she said, don't bother. She said he will more than likely have an attack and to take the meds just before he plays. So I told him he can decide when I pick him up from school today.
I felt really bad for him when I dropped him off at school with only 2 hours left. He was exhausted and the only thing he did today was sit in the car to Concord and eat taco bell. All the coughing and not being able to breathand the meds that make his heart race all wore him out. I never knew that laughing can trigger an attack. "Nicccce " Not... sorry, just me being sarcastic.
I just got home from the pharmacy, with another inhaler that he has to take along with the other one he has!
He has to see his doc again next week.
Scary...it's amazing to me how brave kids are. Do they know how serious things can be and just don't show it, or do they not understand.
Andrew's a great kid. He just rolls with the punches.
I just want him well.

Xmas 2006 & New Year 2007!

2007-01-01T17:57:00.000-08:00

Thornton Slide Show

2007-01-01T17:43:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Ian, Nicole & Caleb, the kids were able to get his autograph today at Dry Ice.
We framed the posters the boys had signed and hung them in their room.

Horse Legs

2006-11-07T20:21:00.000-08:00

If a statue in the park of a person on a horse has both front legs in the air, the person died in battle. If the horse has one front leg inthe air the person died as a result of wounds received in battle. If the horse has all four legs on the ground, the person died of naturalcauses.

Believe it or not

2006-11-07T20:20:00.000-08:00

you can read it..........

I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdgnieg.The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid aoccdrnig to rscheearch atCmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in awrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer bein the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raedit wouthit a porbelm Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed erveylteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.

Amazing huh?

You Rock Kitty!

2006-11-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

Live In Texas

2006-11-06T20:34:00.000-08:00

Horoscopes For Today: 11/5/2006

2006-11-05T12:13:00.000-08:00

Libra-
Kindness will play a major role in your day. You are meant to find a new understanding about reciprocation. Give to others what you want to get from them, and everything will work out the way you need it to. If you've been feeling alienated by anyone lately, today is the day to reach out and try for a soft, sweet connection. Be honest and compassionate about how you feel, and remember that thinking about others' feelings is a wise way to proceed in life.

Leo-
It can be very easy to confuse stubborn behavior with determination. Make sure you're not giving a negative label to someone who is merely doing what he or she thinks is right. Resist making any judgments about the questionable behavior of the people around you today -- they have more power over you than you might think. Plus, they may have no choice. Adopt a 'live and let live' attitude, and you will avoid a great deal of stress and unwanted scrutiny.

Sentenced To Death By Hanging

2006-11-05T12:12:00.000-08:00

Former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein yells at the court as he receives his verdict as a bailiff attempts to restrain him during his trial held under tight security in the heavily fortified Green Zone, in Baghdad, Iraq, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2006. Saddam and two others were convicted and sentenced to death by hanging for war crimes in the 1982 killings of 148 people in the town of Dujail.

Horoscopes

2006-10-30T10:22:00.000-08:00

For Today: 10/30/2006

Jump right in to an intimidating situation today -- and prove to yourself that you can do whatever you have the drive to do. You should immediately take control -- don't worry, no one around you is going to mind. In fact, a lot of people are eager to hear what you have to say ... they have been talking about you and are quite eager to see what you can accomplish -- so why not show them? You will be very glad you took the chance -- and took the control.

A close friendship is getting closer, and you are slowly learning that there are even more kinds of love than you had ever imagined. The two of you are a study of balance: What each of you lacks, the other has in spades. And beyond that, you bring out the best in each other. So if you are trying to make the right choice but need a little push, call them and tell them what's up. They will inspire you to do what is best for you in the long run.