Reason #103 and beyond - TV moments

As Mr. and I were watching TV the other night, a character on our favorite show, Gossip Girl, did something really stupid (I can't remember the ACTUAL act - but nonetheless - I do remember it was something "Chuck" said to a girl). It was a really unwise statement, so as we watched, we both feel the need to shout at the TV when something doesn't go the way WE think it should.

So on this very night, after the character "Chuck" insulted another character, instead of calling him a typical rude insult- Mr. instead called him a "dumbbell." I just melted. It was an insult that you would use when you were in 1st grade (and maybe in the 1950s because I think 1st graders are really harsh in modern times). Mr. was cute about it, as he was so involved with the show - that his one small comment reaffirmed a hundred times over the many reasons why I love him.
To add to that fact, at the end of the show, the "villian" character's parent died - and being a 17 year old, the character did not handle it well. He would drink excessively and just had a complete meltdown. The last scene he was sitting on the bed of the girl he goes back and forth with, and he looked so pitiful. I looked over at Mr, and he was in fact, crying. And in a cracked voice, he tells me that he just feels so bad for him....again.

I don't know who my future husband is turning into - but every day he surprises me and amazes me....

A change in the world

"Sometimes it seems like we're all living in some kind of prison, and the crime is how much we all hate ourselves. It's good to get really dressed up once in a while and admit the truth -- that when you really look closely, people are so strange and so complicated that they're actually beautiful. Possibly even me."

When you stand on that oppression line - and you look at your neighbor, you realize you both have the same insecurities - you both go to work or school each day - holding in all the anxieties from the previous. You both think you are totally alone - that no one can relate - that you will never match up, you will never be who they expect you to be - then one day - you take a look around, and you realize all t hose people you pass in the halls -they are just like you, they are hiding something deep inside. All scared to truly be themselves.

Today at work, we had a workshop a few years ago for the new students/freshman - and I have never been through something like this before. It was called Challenge Day (www.challengeday.org) I strongly encourage anyone to look this up, It truly changed my life. If we had this when I was in high school, I don't think I would have felt so alone - so isolated - so different. So many students said that day they never realized that each of their peers experienced the same pains and fears, or the same heartache.

I challenge each of you that reads this to STOP judging people - to take a look at who they really are - who they really can be. I challenge you to listen. just listen with your heart and open your eyes to the possibilities that we aren't so different after all.

*Unfortunately, not everyone sees this program as beneficial. It takes a certain type of person to loo inside themselves and try make it better. This program is no longer used in our school systems. Adminstration didn't like what message it was sending to students. And most teachers didn't want to "feel" anything - they thought it was silly and most teacher didn't understand the message. The day I found out about the cancellation, I felt letdown by our school. I was dissappointed in the adults who felt the program was a joke.**

getting a second job

I was thinking about getting a second job - because teaching pay just 'ain't covern it'. Bills and bills - I could lose myself in the pile, In addition, that I'm starting to think that weddings do not pay for themselves......

After thinking long and hard about my second career, I stumbled upon an old blog of mine when I ACTUALLY got a part-time job at a local coffee shop called Ro-Co Lounge in Boonton. I loved it. But not for the reasons most would think. I don't think I ever made more than 10 dollars a day in tips, and min wage just doesn't cut it when you are attempting to pay the mortgage.
However, I did have alot of time to think...and think. NO ONE ever came in. That is probably the sole reason I quit and they closed their doors (last drive by attempt - they turned into a lawyer's office - boo hiss - where's the coffee drinks???).

I had alot of time to write, and draw, and read...all the things that wonderfully happened during my short-lasted part-time job. This is an entry from an old blog I had - Christmas time was starting...and on this note, I am (again) going to make myself some tea.....three years later.


Wednesday, November 30, 2005

here i sit at my other job. the internet has now become my enemy bc it is the only thing i have to occupy myself. there is only so much coffee one can drink and times you can clean the expresso machine without totally loses your mind. atleast its quiet and i have time to myself - really with this new found time, i should be doing something constructive. instead, i talk online(such a high school thing to do), procrastinate work, glare at the coffee maker which burns me everytime i touch it, and text message my boyfriend - bc talking on the phone is SOO overrated.

I think of grand schemes to scheme(haha) and think about what would happen if i actually went through with one of them. i think i would fall over. that is right - i would just tilt a little to the side(you can chose left or right) and just fall straight to the ground.

im going to see how long i can type for about the most random things. and that is right - its been 50 mins since my last customer. i say PACK IT UP AND GO HOME!! but no. we are open till 8 and i could really just the extra minimum wage im making here.

i have run out of ideas to type so now i am going to go get some tea. the black kind. and no im not trying to be racial....

HOLIDAY cheer

"Christmas bells are ringing!" The sounds of Christmas music blares in all convinent stores, fancy boutiques and sometimes (if you are lucky!) music is playing sweetly down Main Streets.
Christmas time is my favorite time of the year. Between the holiday cheer and finding that "perfect" gift - I can't help but smiling :)

I have never been to a Live Nativity Scene and for some reason, this year I feel like going to one. Where can I go? That is a good question - but I have the answer! Here in Northern New Jersey, there are surprisingly alot of live Nativity scenes...

In addition to the Nativity (the true start of Christmas) I adore Christmas lights. After plugging in , what must have been over twenty lit decorations throughout my house, and about forty strands of lights outside, I turned off my regular lamps - and basked in the glow of the Christmas spirit. I sometimes wonder what my neighbors think.....

Moving away from the lights and the manger, I love Christmas for a multitude of reasons. I love the magic in the air. Yes, I still believe in Santa Claus. I believe that average people can turn someone's world around - but sadly, we only do it around the holidays. I love Christmas music. Something about all the songs I sang, rather loudly as a child, remind me of a more simple time. I love finding the "perfect" gift. I become giddy thinking about the receiver's reaction when they open up my gift.

I also love hte cookies. the piles and miles of cookies my mom and I bake. One or two days full of chocolately goodness wafting through the kitchen. I makes my mouth water just thinking about it.

Big Wig - Name this Company

In my future, my soon to be husband and I would like to have a craft room. He is too cute. He wants to have a place where we can TOGETHER do projects, even if it is me doing the crafting and he is doing the work :)
I have thought long and hard about what to name my crafty business (we have high hopes!)

Here are some of the names I came up with. Which one do you think would look the best on a label inside a handbag or shirt?

handmade cuteness
H.C.

circle circle dot dot

you are my sunshine

clementines

miss crabbypants

redfish.bluefish.

freddy

one plus one equals love

u plus me

miss fancy pants

crabbypants

gd morning love

holy moly! applely goey pizza

For dessert - nothing is better than toffee and apples....that is until - it turned into pizza.


Toffee Apple Crumble Pizza:

Pizza dough
Toffee sauce*1
Sliced apples
Crumble topping *2


*1- Toffee sauce: Use store bought or make your own. Caramelize 1/4 cup sugar, when it has a golden color and no lumps add 1/4 cup hot heavy cream (it will bubble a lot) and keep stiring until you have a smoth cream. Add a tbsp butter and mix until melted. keep in the fridge and if it's too hard to use, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.


*2- Crumble topping: Same quantities (I've used 1/4 cup) of: cold butter, brown sugar, rolled oats, flour and 1/4 tsp salt and cinnamon. Mix with your finger tips until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
Crunchy, sweet, gooey, chewy, fruity, spicy... Really, what's not to like???

Fungus on your bun

Tonight's Dinner (If I didn't already have dinner plans!)

Ingredients:
1-1/4 teaspoons olive oil, divided
3/4 cup thinly sliced shallots
4 large portobello mushrooms, washed, patted dry and stems removed
1/8 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/8 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons chopped basil
4 whole-grain hamburger buns
4 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/4-inch slices
2 jarred roasted red bell peppers, rinsed, patted dry and cut into strips

Preparation:
1. Heat 1/4 teaspoon oil in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots; cook 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and soft. Set aside.
2. Preheat broiler.
3. Drizzle each mushroom on both sides with 1/4 teaspoon oil; season both sides with salt and pepper, if desired. Place mushrooms gill-side-up on foil-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle garlic evenly among mushrooms.
4. Broil mushrooms 4 minutes per side. Remove from oven.
5. Combine mayonnaise and basil until well mixed.
6. To assemble burgers, spread both sides of each bun with basil mayonnaise. Divide cooked shallots and mozzarella slices evenly among bottom halves of buns; top with mushroom and bell pepper strips. Replace top halves of buns.

Nutritional Information:
Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Sodium 513 mg
Protein 13 g
Fiber 3 g
Carbohydrate 30 g
Cholesterol 18 mg
Saturated Fat 4 g
Total Fat 9 g
Calories from Fat 31 %
Calories 244

Exactly three years ago - a little light

A small flicker of hope - but three years ago this was my blog entry.

This little light of mine,

I'm gonna let it shine

This little light of mine,

I'm gonna let it shine

This little light of mine,

I'm gonna let it shine

Let it shine,

Let it shine,

Let it shine.

Posted 10/27/2005 11:44 AM

Since this entry, I have changed, molded, melted, formed and restructured myself. I wouldn't say there is a little light anymore. It's shining - and it's bright - and it's all because of you.

K

Fridays on the Cheap - Halloween Version

When the full moon is out and the wolves are howling- where should you turn? How about the dozens of scary haunted houses and hayrides located minutes from your home!




If you live in the Northern Jersey area, or perhaps even NY area - I have the low down :)




A MASSIVE Haunted House Inside A Real Prison! A lost world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers stands behind the Eastern State Penitentiary's massive 30-foot high walls. This is the home of Terror Behind the Walls. Ranked as one of the 10 Best Haunted Houses in the United States by America Online, the Travel Channel and the New York Times. _Click Here for more info >>>http://www.terrorbehindthewalls.com/




http://www.hayrideofhorrors.com/





Haunted Hill FarmsVernon, New JerseyNorthern NJVoted Best New Jersey Haunted Hayride. Your adventure will transport you to a world of spooks and ghosts: where monsters lurk in the darkness waiting for you to venture past. A delightful mix of fright and fun for the entire family! Not recommended for small children 6 years or younger. For more Information, please call 973-764-4444.





Haunted Village at Dey MansionWayne, New JerseyHow brave are you? The actors of NJRF Players and Dunn-ley Productions challenge you to wander into the depths of insanity. Beware of the many creatures you nay unearth as you walk through the horrors of the night. The tour is PG13 and children under 15 MUST be accompanied by an adult. We dare you to let us scare you!



Nightmare Haunted Hayride and Haunted ManorVernon, New JerseyHaunted Hayride: In it's thirteenth year, our Haunted Hayride is sure to make your blood run cold with 50 live actors all anxiously waiting to scare the 'yell' out of you. Haunted Manor: The newest addition to the Halloween Spooktacular, the Haunted Manor is a frightening walk-through haunted house, with 13 uniquely bone-chilling rooms, featuring ghastly animated props and live actors.





Haunted Mill Historic Red Mill Museum Village Clinton NJNorthwest NJAs the moon rises and darkness reigns, the spirits summon the creatures of the SHADOWS to awaken from the perpetual slumber of death to feast on the fears and flesh of the living, those who are foolish enough to be at hand. Take heed of what lies “Beyond the Shadows”. Concealed in the gloom prowl the hunters and you are their innocent prey.The 18th Annual Haunted Mill will be taking place at the Historic Red Mill Museum Village in Clinton, New Jersey. Performances are scheduled for the evenings of October 17, 18, 24, and 25 from 6:00 pm to midnight. General admission tickets are available for pre-purchase starting October 10 at the Red Mill Museum Office from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm daily. The ticket window opens on performance nights at 5:00 pm. General admission tickets are night specific and are available for $20 each, and XpressPass tickets, good for any of the four nights and are $40 each. Both prices include the notorious haunted hayride and infamous walking terror trail.


Forest of Fear600 Rte. 17A Tuxedo, New York 845-351-5174 and 845-351-5171 New York StateFridays: Nightfall - 12:00 AM Saturdays: Nightfall - 1:00 AM Sundays: Nightfall - 11:00 PM - $20.00 Admission at the gate. Ticket sales end one hour before closing time. Featuring: The Slaughterhouse - Dare to survive the most terrifying sights through this 26 room Haunted House. Over 6,000 square feet of dark, turning, shifting passages. Who knows what roams these rooms? The Cemetery of Lost Souls - Continuous fiendish fire manipulations featuring The Burnmasters - Fireballs, Firespinning and Flamethrowing! Midway of Mayhem - Thrilling rides and games including the Tilt-a-Whirl, the Gravitron, the Scrambler and more! The Carn-Evil Macabre - Visit the Haunted Marketplace filled with foods and scary. The Forest of Fear is held on the NY Renaissance Faire site. 600 Rte. 17A Tuxedo, New York 845-351-5174 and 845-351-5171. Less than an hour from most parts of Northern New Jersey.





Headless Horseman - Hayrides and Haunted HousesUlster Park, NY, 845-339-2666New York StateHeadless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Houses is located in Ulster Park, NY, part of the Historic Haunted Hudson Valley. The property incorporates over forty-five acres of naturally landscaped property that includes foreboding woods, surreal ponds, fruit orchards and more. It has been Named #1 Hayride in America by American Airlines Magazine, as well as #1 Haunted Attraction in the country by Haunt World Magazine, also receiving top ten national rankings from CNBC and AOL. Headless Horseman is a theatrical experience like no other! Every friday Saturday and Sunday in October as well as October 29th and 30th! About an hour and a half from most parts of Northern New Jersey, but well worth the ride!

Pump(kin) you up!!

My My I love pumpkin pie!!
However, I don't like how the pie stays with me throughout the winter (particularly on my thighs)
This recipe from Hungry Girl sounds delicious! I can't wait to make it...imagine every four slices of this healthier pie is really ONE slice of regular pumpkin pie....THINK HOW MUCH YOU CAN HAVE!!

	You'll need a springform pie pan for this recipe. You can usually find 'em cheapie-cheap at any supermarket, or click here to order one online. Ingredients: For Crust 2 cups Fiber One Bran Cereal ground to a breadcrumb-like consistency in a blender or food processor 1/4 cup light whipped butter or light buttery spread (like Smart Balance Light), melted & mixed with 2 tbsp. water 3 tbsp. Splenda No Calorie Sweetener (granulated) 1 tsp. cinnamon For Filling 32 oz. fat-free cream cheese, room temperature 1 cup fat-free liquid egg substitute (like Egg Beaters Original) 1 cup canned pure pumpkin 1 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener (granulated) 1/4 cup light brown sugar (not packed) 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice For Topping 3/4 cup fat-free sour cream 1/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener (granulated) 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract Directions: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine all crust ingredients and mix thoroughly. Spray a springform pie pan (about 9" wide) lightly with nonstick spray -- make sure to get the sides as well as the bottom. Then evenly distribute c rumb mixture, using your hands or a flat utensil to firmly press and form the crust along the bottom of the pan. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine all filling ingredients. Using an electric mixer set to medium speed, mix until completely blended and lump-free. Pour mixture into the pan. Bake in the oven for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, until set. Allow pie to chill in the fridge for at least 3 - 4 hours (overnight is best). Once pie has chilled, carefully release and remove springform top. In a small bowl, mix all topping ingredients together until thoroughly blended. Spread topping evenly over the pie. Return pie to the fridge until ready to serve. Cut pie into 12 slices. MAKES 12 SERVINGS
	Serving Size: 1 slice Calories: 160 Fat: 3.25g Sodium: 579mg Carbs: 20g Fiber: 5g Sugars: 7g Protein: 15g POINTS® value 3*

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

Some days I have no idea where the time went. It's like I'm a car driving down the highway at 80 miles an hour - and everything is just a blur. The billboards I pass, I cannot read. The people I pass are gone before I can even open my mouth to say hi. The days go by, and I look back at the calendar and I wonder where large chunks of time went.
Is this how my whole life will be? How do I make it slow down enough to experience it all? take it all in?

This week we are starting the Biggest Loser at work. What defines a loser? In this case, one who packs on the weight - and is now permanently carrying it around. That, in short, would be me.
This little (or alot) of weight is making me regret having to look for a wedding dress...which brings me to my first point. Time. Where has the time gone? I am worried that before I know it, it will be January and getting a dress will be impossible. Apparently, one has to order their wedding dress at birth in order to make sure it arrives on time.....

Dollar worth more than a hundred pennies

Photography by Cameron Ingalls - see more at http://www.cameroningalls.com/


Sand dollars as a child, meant to me more than the average dollar. You couldn't buy these (well - I guess you could at a market). It was a treasure found on a morning walk with my grandma. Sand dollars were the item you jumped up and down and splattered sand everywhere when you happened to be lucky enough to spot on. Even luckier to find a whole one....

9 months and change

I am marrying a man who....

- leaves work to bring my class hot wings because he knows its a student's birthday
- is adorable when he first wakes up...the mop of hair is too much
- loves me so much that I can't imagine how much he will love our children
- forgets what he did at work that day, but will remember the first time he knew I was everything for him, first kiss, my birthday, our engagement date.....
-treats my friends and family as his own...and better
- tells me I'm beautiful even when I'm feeling anything but...
- has a million nicknames for me, but saves "Kara Marie" for when he is serious....
- is incredibley smart and has no idea
- still makes my heart race when he pulls into the driveway
- combs my hair with his fingers as I'm falling asleep
- is my best friend in the entire world.

Mortimer should be all mine

Picture Pages,

Picture Pages,

Time to get your Picture Pages,

Time to get your crayons and your pencils!

Picture Pages, Picture Pages,

Open up your Picture Pages,

Time to watch Bill Cosby do a Picture Page with you!

Now that you know the words, you can sing along - Picture Pages. Expect the song to happily stick in your memory.

Picture Pages was a short, educational TV show where Bill Cosby would interact with you, the viewer, doing fun activities in an activity book. Picture Pages originated on Captain Kangaroo in the 1970s and then it spun off to its own show. You could get your Picture Pages puzzle booklets from local supermarket chains or send away for them. It was fun working with silly Bill Cosby (and his Mortimer Ichabod marker) as you completed each activity together. The way he interacted with you as you went through the activity book was like he was on the same page with you and in fact he was - Picture Pages.

You can play with Picture Pages,Fill your day with Picture Pages,‘Till Bill Cosby does another Picture Page with you!

If you were lucky enough to have experienced this show first hand, wasn’t it great?

I just wish I could have a Mortimer of my very own!

Where have I been? only one zip code matters

life has a funny way of creeping up on you then biting you square in the bottom and I feel that I have been gone for too long! I missed writing. I missed reading. I missed searching for things to report on...

Now that work is back in session, I shall have more time to report :)

Also - with this week brings all the new shows like 90210. Now, compared to the 1990 version which I hold in high standards and for one reason only -
luke perry.

no zipcode competes with one that has this face.

Shield the sun not your heart

Our wedding will be held in the dead of the summer. Jersey summer. For those that are from this lovely state, can bear witness to the humidity. It strikes fear and terror in most, and makes young and old cry. I whine. Hair styles frizz. Mr sweats profusely. What can be done?

Besides carrying around a portable fan, or having it totally indoors in the lovely air conditioning - one thing comes to mind. umbrellas. I love umbrellas. and I love them more with designs on them. practical? sure :)

Mail box at your wedding

Often I wonder, who really uses those ugly (in my opinion) white laced boxes at weddings to put cards in? (and by saying this, I sincerely hope I am not offending anyone). I think each piece of the wedding should reflect you as a person, you as a couple. And that white laced box screams I am boring.

However, in my searches, I have found a beach lantern to hold cards in. I love. Shore Chic has some items that I find appealing. Some of the typical "shore" wedding items are listed there as well. I can't see our wedding decked out in plastic shells glued to baskets, or anything along that line.....Shore Chic (for the most part) gives you a different edge to the beachy look....

Fridays on the Cheap

What to do when your wallet is empty and the only thing weighing down your pockets is lint. (must be alot of lint - if its weighing your pockets down!)

You check out the local section in your newspaper (P.S. - Fridays usually have the best info!). There are a TON of fabulous places to go for less than ten dollars!

In the Morris County area of New Jersey I have compiled a list of places to check out. Most weekends these places hold different shows or events.

The D word

People ask, "So- have you looked for a dress?" My response to them is always the same. A flat no. Simply, I don't have the energy to search through stores looking for the perfect outfit for the perfect day, only to curse myself for not going to the gym more. No, sir. I will not torture myself.

I told myself that after summer school is over, my schedule will be clear. I then, will be able to go to the gym. Till then, it will have to wait.

But then this morning happened. I was searching through the normal blogs when I stumbled upon this dress. A polka-dot heaven. I am in love.

It is a Caroline Herrera polka dot wedding dress and it is is absolutely sensational. I can totally see myself twirling around in this number.

*sigh* Maybe I shouldn't put off the gym......

NEW Topic - DIY (Do It Yourself)

Yay!! I am so excited to clean. to purge. to start anew. and with that - comes no longer my craft room, but a craft closet. Life creates change. and with that, my craft room is being converted to a bedroom (yay) but I can still have a craft closet (or two).

Every week (I hope) I would like to post a do it yourself project on my blog. the subject could be anything.....but I have a feeling mostly wedding (for now!)

I visited Martha Stewart's Craft site for the first time and I feel like I've been living under a rock for never knowing about this site until now! What a fantastic resource to plan any event, especially a wedding!! Wonderful ideas are all over the site from bouquets made out of tissue paper to favor boxes, but I am especially loving the hanging paper flowers! (I already bought this kit to make our own!!) I never considered myself a fan of Martha, but she is slowly winning me over :)

Mundane Mondays - a rant. a ramble. (With a hint of wedding)

This past weekend was Mr's family picnic. This was the first time seeing alot of his family since our engagement. Therefore, we had to retell our engagement a few dozen times - Though I didn't mind THAT part - Alot of people asked about the wedding. details. Lots and lots of details.

When we first got engaged, we booked the three major point RIGHT away: the place (and date), the music and photography. Since then, we have taken a long break. a hiatus from the wedding industry. I haven't really thought about the wedding much since the summer has started - and I am feeling somewhat guilty.

I feel like there should be more planning, more gathering of information - but what information am I gathering?! What should I be looking for? What is the next step? I have no clue.

I can only focus so long on the wedding itself. Because though I am thrilled to be getting married - it seems like alot of energy to put into something that will only last a few hours. I am MORE excited (hate to say it) but to plan our vacation for our 1 year anniversary. haha - planning an anniversary vacation already, you might think, is foolish. However, THAT is what I am looking more forward to - spending all my days with Mr. NOT just the ONE big day.

I am not trying to take away the special moment - because I am very excited for July 10th. But I am more excited to get to hang out with my family that day. I am more excited to dance my heart out. I am tickled to think of our "first" dance. THOSE are the things that I can't wait for - and to me, picking out all these other small details (though RIGHT up my alley as far as planning!) it seems like a big deal.......


OKAY - so on that note - these are the small things that I am interested in...but do ALL these small things make the wedding? I say YES.

I don't know if you can tell what these things are: Wedding tissues. If anyone is like me, crying is their deal. I cry. I cry at everything.

The saying: Tears of Joy Tears of Laughter to a Happily Ever After" I think is PERFECT.

Props to my favorite hand- made site: Etsy.com

Wino Wednesday

Who doesn't love wine? phooey to you. I am in love with BIG HOUSE PINK wine for not one but TWO reasons.

For starters, it tastes good. That always plays a factor when choosing wine - or really any beverage. Who wants to drink something that tastes like cat poop? Or smells like it?

Secondly, it comes in a four pack. A FOUR PACK FOR WINE?! What would be the point. I orginally, I had no clue. But after finishing one on my own in about five gulps, I came across the reason. Shear satitisfaction. Some would argue - but I think it is so you can say I drank a WHOLE bottle, when really the bottle is no bigger than a can of Cola.

Thrifty Thursdays dressing in style

I love dresses. I have said it before and I'll say it again. LOVE.

This particular dress is most liked for its pockets. I love the way dresses and skirts feel, however - they are very limiting to what you can carry with you - and I personally like to be hands free. Therefore,to the designer who started putting front pockets in dresses - a big pat on the back.

In addition, the polka dot heels are an added bonus. (Though you typically would catch me sporting flip flops - I could make an acception!)

Where have I been?

Last week was a crazy time - finishing finals and grading....and the weekend was a time of rest/caos. I start work again tomorrow (Summer School!) so this post is deticated to children. I will be teaching four precious 4/5 year old boys with severe disabilities - 3/4 of the class have no speech - it will be, at the very least, a quiet experience! :) I am excited, yet nervous.

I LOVE European toys - I grew up on Ravenburger games. Still, to this day, they are my favorite. I feel they are well designed and fun. They are timeless.

My favorite recent toy company is HABA. Currently, I am obbessed with the knight theme - for anything. I love this game - Castle Knights. I think cooperative games are most important - it's not always about winning!

Quack Quack is cute enough to hold its own! The pieces all fit inside a drawstring bag, so this game can go anywhere with you. By the company Blue Orange , wooden games seem to be their thing

This strategy game is supposed to improve brainpower - which is something I could definitely use :) Pixel is a game that offers fun right away. The directions are not difficult, and up to four people can play. I feel this is alot like another game I used to play when I was younger....but the name escapes me!

Tuesday: A detication to two great items - PB and Cheese

Yesterday was SO hot, I didn't touch my computer at all. As soon as I got home from work, I plopped next to the air conditioning unit, turned it on high - and curled up and went to sleep. Heat makes me so tired!

Alas, today I am at work, with alot to do - but I need to write. Writing unrelated to grading, exams, students.

This weekend, Mr and I went into the city and ate peanut butter. We drove (not far) but paid a whole lot in parking - $50- to eat PB. And I loved every minute. We went to Peanut Butter Company - they have, hands down the best sandwiches you could ask for. If you are a fan of Peanut buttery goodness, this is definitely a must stop.

I had the Peanut Butter Cup - ground peanut butter kissed by a chocolately layer of Nutella. OMG Mr. had one of their sandwiches of the week. Which could only be described as something I never had before....and I don't know how I went on this long without experiencing such a taste.

So I found a recipe for Vanilla Cream Cheese. Make this. Spread PB and Apples over a bagel with vanilla cream cheese - and TA-DA! You have made yourself something amazing. Magic in your mouth.

Other options for peanut butter:

Make Grilled Cheese and Spread PB over it. (this is where my love for cheese reaches a new high)

Moving onto Grilled CHeese recipes...

The PopShop in South Jersey has over 30 different types of grilled cheese sandwiches...

and after salivating over their menu online...my favorite must be: Laurel. and for one reason only - pulled pork. *sigh*

Adventures in Weddingland

We are attending our last and final bridal show. I am excited - but Mr. is a little sadden. Which to me, is funny. He said he likes going to these things...and I secretly do too - However, we do not need anymore brochures on photography or bands...and we are too sheepish to say no thank you. So alas, we probably will come home with things we don't need and still unsure of what we do need...

What did we find? Stuff we already knew. Like that I LOVE the AWesome 80s Prom. If I had to plan my bach. party - this is definitely the place I would have it :)

Friday already?!

How can that be? I feel I am a day off. and usually it is the other way around - I usually think it is a day ahead....

But anyway Fridays on the Cheapside! and what screams cheap more than FREE!

Last week, I reported on the Come Out and Play Festival which takes place in NYC this upcoming weekend. I am going with a couple of friends (two friends = a couple) to the Ravenchase Hunt.
THAT is what I am here to report on :)

The Ravenchase Hunt is a mix between DaVinci Code and Amazing Race. And I love the Amazing Race. However, the hunt is around the city. You have clues and maps and objects to help you decipher codes to the next clue....

Thirfty Thursday

Motivation comes in drips and drabs for me. I am motivated to clean and organize the "craft" room - and then after a few minutes of shelving and re-shelving an eight year old's clothes, the motivation flies out the window. at lightening speed. So therefore,I have been procrastinating with the best this week. I have not touched my craft room .. I walk in, quickly become overwhelmed and then walk out to do something else.
Or I sit on the blow up mattress, for what it seems to be an enternity. Well, lucky for me, it isn't that long - five minutes tops. And I decide, in those moments, I don't need to buy a single thing. NOTHING else till I purge. and by purge I mean rid the house of all the clutter and debris that is stoppping me from seeing the floor in my so-called craft room.

However, that doesn't have to stop me from looking at items. online :0
and to follow suit - the website of the day would be, noneother than:
The Container Store!
I need to find containers and some sort of plan in order to better organize my crafty items in the closet, and kid stuff in the room. How can this be done??

I have too much stuff...and not enough crafty ideas.....

ho hum.

Adventures in Weddingland

All the added touches could make ones head explode!

We are getting married in the beginning of July 2009, and the heat will be enough to knock me right out of my dress..let alone anyone sitting in the seats waiting...in the still air!

Fan? Who's a fan? I am! I am!



I kinda like the fan with the program, it gives it a purpose. A duty. Well, rather than just something to wave in front of your face in the sweltering heat of July!

THe best website it seems for these type of "favors" is Bliss Wedding Market. They have a TON of neat favors, particularly fans.
I love this idea - putting the fans on each chair with attached program.

However, I don't want to run out of room on the fan for the program. I went to a wedding a few years ago, and the bride and groom wrote a little blurb about each person in the wedding party - I thought that was a great idea. That way, for those that don't know those people, they have an idea of who they are, how they know the couple.....

Would I have enough room in the fan to do that??

Ramblings of a Bride

I don't see myself as being overweight. I see myself as being unfit. out of shape. A little "uncomfortable". This is, until the day we bought a scale. The scale makes me look at myself differently - in a more harsh light.
I guess if I really sat down and thought about the changes in my body over the past four years, I would say HOLY COW! Where did all that come from?! But I don't really think about it. When my pants don't fit, I buy new ones. A dress too snug? Buy spankies. Or donate it. Never has been a problem. Until now.
I am beginning to dislike myself for this. What has become of me? I am not even in a self-pitying mood, but I can honestly say there has never been a point in my life where I didn't like myself....and 27 years (almost!) later - I am reaching that point...and I don't like it one bit.

So how do I change this? Well, I already own a library full of self help books - how to love yourself, how to gain control, You are worth something...the list could go on and on. I already sought out someone to talk with at points in my life.
The more I feel I am emotionally stable, the less healthy I am...does that make sense?

I decided I don't want to be that person that looks back and lived their 20s hiding themselves behind giant dresses and clothes that are too snug, too tight or altogether too manysizes too big.

Who have I become? I don't know. But I am trying to find that person again, that I personally found so endearing. Because she is trapped in this body. A body that is altogether too large for her......

Adventures in Weddingland

My mom came over two nights ago to watch the last episode of One Tree Hill - while we were getting ready, she yelled from the kitchen, "You know what Mr. (but she said his name) said to me over the weekend? He said he just couldn't wait to be married to you. I think thats sweet." I got goosepumps bc its true. Then yesterday I asked him about it, and he explained that he doesn't mind the planning of the wedding (unlike most men), he just doesn't like the long period of time before he can actually call me his wife. He said,"That's all I want. It seems silly to call you my girlfriend, or my fiance - I just want to be able to tell the world that your my wife. And now I have to wait over a year - it's too long." He is just too funny.

With that - let's talk about Who wants a "bride" idea? haha...I can't even take credit for the pun. But it still makes me chuckle.

There are a handful of kids coming to our wedding (unruly kids at that - or atleast some of them) and I stumbled upon an idea of "kid packs" - which I loved. We are going to make a kids table with a few sandbuckets full of activities.
These are just a few things I was thinking about putting in:

peg games
coloring books
crayons
cards
This was a picutre that I aw online - I love the wedding crayons and books! The paper dolls were an added touch :)

Mundane Mondays

Today may be the worst monday to get through - it is the last FULL Monday of teaching! And I think I may be worse than the kids...They talk to me and all I hear is "wah wah wah wah" - no actual words. I doubt that they are blurting out just noises. So I take it that it is my attention span.....short. now gone. totally.

Therefore, I found myself on a bunch of websites already this morning!

World Market - This site has a terra cotta pig grille. And it looks fancy enough to display it in my backyard proudly.

Mayhar DryGoods - The Entersite page is too adorable. I could actually not even enter the site - and instead, just sit and watch the little animals watch movies in the woods......I swear - im not delirous!

Delight - every day there is a different "delight" discounted!! How fabulous for my wallet. Today it's closet storage (which I don't need) but I'm crossing my fingers for the Smencils to be on sale. WHO doesn't want a smelly pencil?! How did I live this long without it!

However, the love canteen may have received THE ITEM of the day award! Thanks to Delight, I won't be without a heart.

"When a man's an empty kettle,

He should be on his mettle

And yet I'm torn apart.

Just because I'm presumin

'That I could be kinda human,

If I only had a heart.

I'd be tender — I'd be gentle

And awful sentimental

Regarding Love and ArtI

'd be friends with sparrows

And the boy who shoots the arrows

If I only had a heart. "

Where has the time gone?! Fridays late.

Fridays on the Cheap - a few days late...better than never!

What to do on a weekend - particulary this upcoming weekend. I thought about this moment all year long. Last year when I heard about the festival - I was a day too late - This year, I know in advance - alas...I still cannot attend! I am hoping someone can

give me some feedback!!

Come Out and Play 2008

This festival turns NYC into a playground for the weekend. Not just one park, one building. NYC. yes - the entire city! Hundreds of people congregate to play different games across each part of the city. Players play "life-sized Pong using only their ears to "hear" the ball. Payphones produced points and Tompkins Square Park became a putt-putt course. 200 people performed stunts to display on the Reuters screen in Times Square."(COAP website)

The list of activities seems to be endless....who doesnt want to play a Pacman on the side of a building. Or whiffle ball in the streets.

The best part -

ITS FREE!!!! gosh. I love NYC.

Adventures in Weddingland

wedding topper wedding topper....where are you?

NOW that we have all the major items checked off - its time to get

C-R-E-A-T-I-V-E!! and I can't wait!!!!!!

Some of the wedding toppers I found. Some funny/ some notso.

I like the bird theme alot - but when I think about it, putting birds on top of your cake - in real life - there would be a BIG mess.

So what is the connection between MR/me and birds? zero.

I would have to have some aquatic life on top of our cake to make it relatable to our lives...or things we like....

Im just not a fan of the wedding toppers with bride and groom on top. The bride is pulling the groom by his foot or leg or collar. The groom is standing there looking at his watch - tapping his foot. Impling the bride is always late. The bride on top of the cake, and the groom two levels below. He apparently couldn't stand on the top - and toppled over - the bride reaching out to grab him. NONE of these imply love and marriage. It tells me impatience and noncommittment!

Give me the birds and the fish anyday.

Thrifty Thursday -Where did the week go?

I've been on the prowl now for a rain coat. Not any rain coat. The raincoat. The raincoat in my head....the one that DOESN'T exist...till now!

I found it! I found it! Now, one of my favorite websites to "windowshop" is Boden. Simply for one reason. They created the raincoat of my dreams.

a few minutes later....
Alas, it is sold out in EVERY size.

Sadness and disappointment engulf me like smoke. I hate the rain.

Mundane Mondays...Wait! Its Tuesday :)

Gee golly - I love having Mondays off. It makes my work week fly! Well, truthfully - I think this will be one of the slowest weeks because we are getting near the end of school - and NO ONE wants to be here anymore.

So here's to the Monday passed!!

How to waste away your workday - whenever that is....

Thinking about food....lots and lots of tasty treats....

Oftentimes I like to think I am a pastry chef, a baker of sorts...I will research all these fancy dessert recipes - photocopy, label them and put them in my cookbook...I am in one of those moods - so here's to Betty :)



In addition, if it was possible to fall more in love with someone - Mr. sends me an email with the subject GOSSIP. The body of the email contains some surprising news about friends of friends....that wasn't the part I cared about...he signed off his email by writing XOXO Gossip Guy. well, if that didn't seal the deal on me marrying him... I dont know what would.



Well you know which team I am on. This shirt from Fred Flare come in two teams; Team B and Team S and will only cost you a cool $24. A small price to pay for spreading Gossip Girl love.



XOXO



K

Fridays on the Cheap

Memorial Day weekend. One of my favorite weekends simply because I have four days off and that means I am at the shore the entire time :)

What to do this weekend? My all time favorite activity with my family (because that is the crowd I run with) would be board games, booze and snackies. So today is deticated to snackers around the world (or atleast in the tri-state area)

Tonight's options are the following:

Last Word Board Game:
From what I can gather, you get a Letter and a topic and everyone has to shout out objects from that catergory till the buzzer goes off.......havent played - I will give the full report when I actually crack open the box


OR


Taboo Board Game:
This is one of my favorite games to play. You get a word and you have to try to get your partner to say it. However, there are certain "key" words that you cannot use to describe it...It's fun to play if you REALLY know your partner -
for example - I was playing with Mr. against my mom and my brother and I had to try to get Mr. to say a word. In three seconds flat I shouted "WhatIwishIhadinmybasement!" He barked "dolphins!" The crowd went wild!! We slapped high fives, and I thought gee - he really does pay attention to everything I say....*sigh*

OUTDOOR BBQ GAME:

We were SO excited when this came in the mail. Four people, two hours later - we finally got it assembled. We were ready. However, the game was not. Each time we swung the ball towards the pole - it fell down!!!We are trying to make it a little sturdier - but nonetheless, this is a great addition to our outdoor drinking game collection.

Drink of the Day:

Pomegranate Margarita

2 ounces white tequila

1/2 ounce Triple Sec

1 ounce fresh lime juice

1/2 ounce Cointreau

1 tablespoon fresh pomegranate juice(POM)

Ice

Had this mix last weekend, and it put me on my arse. literally at times. But my my was it tasty :)

Adventures in Weddingland

There are so many different ideas for the wedding swirling around in my head - its hard to wrap my mind around just one!

I know right now that I would like to do the oh so trendy "sock" shot. But with that, I would need to know the color scheme - and that I do not know :) The picture above reminds me of the mad hatter...

This picture is from the Whitebox photography website. I have fallen in love. hard. To start, I love the "home" page on the website - the bride with the camera just makes me smile....

Thrifty Thursday: WII'll it get me FIT before the Wedding??

Guess what Mr. is purchasing!

I am so excited! Apparently Mr. went to three Walmarts, two Best Buys and called every other store in a 30 mile radius to try to get his hands on one. We are both anticipating great things from this little machine. arms of steel. toned legs. Wii will be my saving grace. If anything, it will qualify as Mr's F date - F for Fitness. or F for fools. I'll take whichever :)

Wino Wednesday

All I can say is I am so thankful for today. Simply that Wednesday gives me an excuse to crack open a bottle and "sample" it for blog purposes. That, and this week is the longest most tiring week. I have no rhyme or reason why - I just simply find myself wanting to curl up every chance, and nap. No matter the amount of cofffee, energy drink, exercise - I don't have the energy. So with that, I will break open a bottle - indulge in a glass or two and then hit the sack.

Today's choice: Ashley Lynn located in Mexico NY.

APPLE CHERRY - Taste the great flavor of the apple with just a bite of the cherry. way better with ice...its like a Ssip juice container :) but better alcohol content. Mr.'s comment was, "It's pretty good for a fruit kind of wine. even better - it's like getting drunk on apple juice." Spoken like a true irish man.

Tuesday. What to say about that. History Lesson

Themes. They rule my life. I am sad to report that Tuesday is yet to have a theme. So this week's Tuesday I shall report on history. History you might ask - What could I possibly say about that? It happened. That's that. Whatever I would report on, already took place - it's in the past. Anyone that knows me, knows I don't care much for dates or facts about generals or wars. I don't care to think about a time that was, and is no longer.
Except of course, when it comes to my life. Selfish, maybe. But I do love sitting around, talking about my own childhood. things that were. the toys I played with. the stuffed animals I cherished. the games I made up while trying to go to sleep. I love thinking about my own history. And how I got here. How I grew into the person that sits behind this dated laptop. Even if I carry on the conversation with myself, it's always good to think how far you've come.

Last night, while trying to go to sleep, Mr. and I reminisced on the start of our bloomed relationship. Another mark in history. We both thought about our "firsts". The first time we hung out. The first time we knew we liked one another. The first time Mr. realized he was in big trouble because his heart was no longer his. The first time we kissed. The firsts went on and on. And I thought - I love history! I love thinking about what was, and talking about it with someone that went through it. Hearing their side.

Throughout that time in my life, I kept another blog. A online journal of my feelings. My life was changing and I needed an outlet. However, without realizing it, I captured the exact emotions I was going through at that time. I wrote about the tortured secret of liking Mr. I recalled the first time I thought the feelings were mutual. I even quoted him a few times....I think now - How magical! How simply wonderful to have my own insight on what was. Not on how I remember it, or think it went. Not with my current feelings mixed in. But with the raw open emotion that was so new and fresh to both of us - happening right at that time. THe good and the bad. Every feeling that I forgot or let go, was written down. It was saved to be part of our history. For that I am thankful.

Cheers to history. and all in the making.
With that I leave you with a piece of who I was. Who I am. and who I will always be. Thanks Mr for just being you and allowing me to see who I am. and for loving me for all I am not.

Dated Feb 3rd 2005
"gosh. i havent been this happy with someone in a long long long time. I almost forgot what it felt like to be looked deeply and appreciated for all that I already am, not for what they want me to be - or what they would to create in me - but for someone beautiful as is.
I look at my life in five years - and where do I want to be? I want to still love my job as much as I do now. I want to be out of debt - I want to have experienced the US for all its worth on countless trips. I want to have lived with my best friend - a fine example of someone I admire and love. I want to be happy. I want to be in love. I want to feel appreciated and valued. I can see all that. And I see it including someone a lil different...
I know I will find the direction I need to take - and that something will not lead me astray. I know that my heart will go on the right path and eventually I will find the courage inside me to say "no. im not going to take this sh** anymore" and break away. Its a small voice now - maybe even a whisper - but im working slowly to developing it into a loud roar. i want the world to know im back and Im not taking anyone's crap anymore.
im worth more than what im valued now. im worth the world. the only people in my life now should be people that feel and see that as well."

always - with all my heart to my future

Just another Mundane Monday - How to waste your workday

Don't want to be at work? There are countless ways to occupy your time till 5pm! (or 2:30 if you teach like me:)

I am mighty obbessed with blogs. I can't help it. I google blogs. The sheer pleasure on my face when over 1.2 billion sites come up on my flashing screen is enough to make my most happiest of days. I simply am in love with blogs. I feel Mr. should be slightly concerned :)

For starters: I love Mightygoods. This site contains loads of indie clothing from all across the web. Right on one simple site! Who knows what you could find!

It was as if this site was made for me. Heaven opened and then the candy blog was created. I read maybe one of the funniest books Candy and Me by Hilary Lifton, which is what reminds me of this site....Her off beat humor about her anything-but mild obbession with candy is enough to send me into sugar fits. The author of the book and designer of the website should meet and discuss their sweet love for Fireballs, Nonpareils and circus peanuts.

Adventures in Weddingland

Seeing this inspiration board on one of my favorite websites Style Me Pretty, makes me think of my high school English teacher and the W.H AUden poem I had to memorize....The actual poem is Funeral Blues (which is NOT wedding material) - However, I do remember reciting this poem into my dresser mirror for days, because I loathed public speaking. I probably could, if prompted still recite it. So here it is......sadness and all.

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,
Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.
Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead
Scribbling on the sky the message He is Dead.
Put crepe bows round the white necks of the public doves,
Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.
He was my North, my South, my East and West,
My working week and my Sunday rest,
My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song;
I thought that love would last forever: I was wrong.
The stars are not wanted now; put out every one,
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun,
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the woods;
For nothing now can ever come to any good.
-- W.H. Auden

SECOND thought. Maybe it is wedding material (obviously not to be recited at a wedding) but that you could love someone so much, that your world is forever altered when they exit. I remember feeling this horrible pain in my stomache, just this wave of sadness when I had to read it - but I just loved it. My favorite lines are the last four. I just have this image of someone coming down and packing everything up, as if we are just a minature version - or a dollhouse. Now that the story died, pack it up, pack it in.....

On a lighter note -

The board itself got me thinking - What is an inspiration board? Could I make my own?
By definition it is : a board filled with images that have a theme (oh my! as if it was made for me!)
haha. I had to laugh after typing that definition because it is the most DUH defined word. oh well.

Fridays on the Cheap

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU WENT TO A DRIVE IN MOVIE?

Delsea Drive-In Movie Theater NJVineland NJWe found a Drive in Movie theatre in New Jersey. New Jerseys only Drive- in There screen is over 100 feet wide and one of the largest in North America. Always a double feature for only $6 adults $3 kidsLove this place! Kind of far for us to drive for a movie….but totally worth it

Warwick Drive-In TheaterOnly 1 hour from Central JerseyLocated just 6 miles east of Vernon NJ and is very easy to get to. They feature a park-like, grassy setting on 11 acres of farmland, first-run movies, home-cooked food and multiple screens for a bigger choice of features. They have three screens with double features.

Shankweilers 1 and 1/2 hours from Central JerseyShankweilers is Americas oldest Drive but it has the The latest in cinema sound reproduction capable of providing awesome surround sound effects

Becky's Drive-In Only 1 hour from Central JerseyListen in Fm stereo connected to your radio. Rent their Boom boxes or bring your own for awesome surround sound which can be received and enjoyed on your car or portable radio.Fair Oaks Drive-In Theatre Only about 1 hour from North JerseyRoute 17M Middletown NY (845) 361-5774 Two screens – and double features on both

If you live near any of these locations – it is a memorable experience. Most nights the tickets are $7 a piece for an adult, and that includes the double feature. Some places even offer a bargain night with tickets between $4-5 dollars.

Come and experience a part of cinema history!!

Thirfy Thursday

beep beep! Who doesn't want a yellow school bus straped to their arm bearing the weight of the world....or atleast three dozen term papers to grade! This will make my day that much brighter and better :)

Wedding related thrifty Thursday purchase...or atleast web browsing and pretend purchase.
If it rains on my wedding day - I will have happy clouds to cover my head!

Rain on your wedding day brings good luck...or atleast a wet head.

Wino Wednesday

Everyone loves wine!! Tonight I am tasting Purple Moon Merlot for the first time. and what a bite. um. and I don't know if that's a good thing! Though it does have the price beat, at $4 a bottle - it can kinda suck and still be worth it :) For starters, I am a bit biast because I'm not really a merlot fan - but I figured I'd give it a crack! The second sip (smells fruity at first, then I'm overcome with the smell of rubbing alcohol) is better than the first. With a little ice, I am able to finish my glass....gee - I still have the whole bottle ahead of me......

Tonight we are going to register at Macys. I said I don't mind what our main course is, what band we pick, what our color scheme is - I just really would like to eat off of these plates.

I could see every morning, waking up next to Bryan - and then coming down the stairs to a little birdie on my cereal bowl. I would wake up with a smile :)

Theme are F-U-N

GARDEN PARTY WEDDING!

okay. So Boyfriend and I are E for Engaged!!!
I'm actually really really excited to start planning - because unlike most women my age, I DO NOT know what I want! I don't know the flowers, the dresses, the place, the location, the time of year, nada. and I love it :)

So we are going for a theme (I think) - and I'm leaning towards "Garden Party" - like a Mad Hatter Tea Party. how fun!