Jamaican Journal- Wednesday Night

While packing I discovered the horrid truth. Gumby has turned into Rumby!

Jamaican Journal- Wednesday

Just sitting outside in the shade, reading, blogging, enjoying the Caribbean breezes. Today its actually quite a stiff wind, but enjoyable nonetheless. There's really not much to say about today. Just soaking up as much atmosphere as possible to take home with me. And trying to really relax, not worry about the life I'm heading home to tomorrow. We'll be leaving here right after breakfast for a 2 hour ride to the airport in Montego Bay. With luck we'll get there with no delays. But I'm not concerned. I think we did the right think coming here to Treasure Beach to be pampered, so I'm sure we'll get home just fine too.

We've tried all the Jamaican dishes we've come across, including Mackerel Rundown and Banana Porridge for breakfast today. I saw patties the other day, but not at a time or place where we were ready to eat, but I thought Josh would like to know they really make them. :) The food is terrific! They make everything from scratch, so there really is no fast food. And they give you a reasonable portion of food, which allows you to be pleasantly full, not stuffed.

We'll probably take a walk later on, and maybe a swim, but its just too hot out in the noonday sun to go out right now. So I guess I'll just keep sitting here. No problem.

Jamaican Journal- Tuesday

We awoke in the early morning to the sound of rain on our tin roof. It was just a passing shower, but welcomed by the locals nonetheless. Our planned outing for the day was a trip to YS Falls. Its a beautiful parklike area where you can swim under the falls at several of its many levels. The water was quite brisk, but it was refreshing after walking up a steep set of stairs to get there. That part of the island is like a rain forest and the vegetation was quite lush; with Jamaican Ginger, birds of paradise, palms, and more, as well as giant snails and hummingbirds and mongoose. On our way back we took a planned detour to Appleton Rum; A factory tour of the place where they make the finest Jamaican Rum. It was like a winery tour except they started us off with a glass of rum punch before we even left the main building! The whole place smelled of molasses, and, not surprisingly, was located next to a sugar cane field. After the tour we were allowed to sample as many of their products as we wanted (and purchase some too). Good thing we had our own driver. We also drove down Bamboo Ave, a section of road where bamboo grows tunnel-like over the road. And then made our way back to Treasure Beach. It was a long day. I'm glad that tomorrow we'll be sticking around here, so we can get in a final dose of relaxation.

Jamaican Journal- Monday

Another perfect day in Paradise. This morning we took an excursion to the Black River. We set out after a breakfast of pineapple pancakes to the fisherman's beach (walk along the beach and around the tree) to meet our captain, Ted. Ted and his dog Flora took us on a 40 minute ride across the sea to the Black River, the longest navigable river in Jamaica. We were in a 24 ft(?) boat powered by outboard motor. The river had such wonders as mangroves and waterlilies, a variety of birds including storks, kingfishers, and men-o-war (big birds). We saw a crocodile or two. And we stopped at Sister Lou's River Stop for some crab backs. Yum! Ted narrated our trip in a wonderful Jamaican accent, mon. (Occasionally he slowed the boat so he could take a cell phone call. Its an interesting juxtaposition of native and new technology). We saw a dolphin in the water of the cove near Black River. I'm sure I would have missed it had Ted not stopped and pointed it out. Just a brief glimpse or two, but magical nonetheless. On our way back we stopped at the famous Pelican Bar, a bar located ¾ mile out on a sand shoal. There were of course, pelicans all around, as well as a manta ray and some other small fish. The water was clear and spa-like warm as we waded nearby. The bar itself, like many buildings here, was little more than a hut, this one on stilts. Of course the only way to get there is by boat, so I expect the clientèle is mainly tourists. But we drank the local brews: Red Stripe, and Jamaican Ginger Beer (bottled by the Pepsi Cola company in Kingston).
The exchange rate here is about 60 Jamaican dollars to one American dollar, so its fun trying to figure out what we are spending. For example our drinks at the bar were 300 dollars. I considered that a reasonable price...it cost considerably more to get us there.
There were a few more rumbles of thunder this afternoon, but there is a lovely cool breeze right now. Our sunset may once again be lost in the clouds. Its hard to know what is normal, but this is considered part of the rainy season.
We missed the rum punch again yesterday at Duggies. We were too late and it was all gone, instead of being too early and missing it like on Saturday. Perhaps the rum punch is mythical. It seems like much of this is a dream....

Jamaica Journal - Sunday

We awoke to the most amazing view, the Sea and a palm tree right outside our door! It is very quiet so far, but we have had a visit or two from one of the resident dogs. We showered in what could be described as an invigorating water temperature, but it is refreshing at least. Trying to identify the flowers and birds is fun. Many of the plants we saw at the Botanical Conservatory in Ft.Wayne grow naturally here, including breadfruit trees, bananas, angel's trumpets (those hanging things), and many varieties of hibiscus. There are also lots of cacti, since this side of the island is drier than the north. Some of the plants we just don't have the experience to identify. Even the fruits are hard to do. There were goldfinches and some other small birds flying around at breakfast. Back near the shore we saw pelicans and some kind of heron as well. And I mentioned the lizards right?
We walked down the beach a ways and looked in amazement at the stuff in the tide pools. There are lots of things I don't really know much about, but the crabs were obvious. Luckily they scuttle away when people come near. We slathered on the sunscreen, but I still worried about being out during the day and burning. The sun is never lie this in Rochester. We discovered why we had an outdoor shower when we got back from the beach and needed to rinse off sand and sunscreen and sweat. The salt water feels cool, but I suspect the salt will be quite drying for the skin too. (But still, worth it...Its the Caribbean for goodness' sake).
We got a take-out jerk sausage pizza for lunch from Jack Sprats, the restaurant that's our near neighbor. After lunch we had a little afternoon nap. It seems really hot today, and the clerk at Jack Sprats told us it is unusually so. Thank God for the ocean breezes. Still working away at HP and hoping there will be no spoilers before we're through.
The time here is one hour earlier than EDT, but since there are no clocks it doesn't matter too much. Its hard to know how late it is except for when we get hungry. Actually with the heat and fatigue yesterday we just ate anyway, and then realized how hungry we had been. Looking forward to a cooler evening, another leasurely dinner at Jakes (there is no other way to have dinner at Jakes), and maybe some of Duggies famous rum punch. :)

Jamaica Journal - Saturday

By planning a trip at the very last minute I guess you miss all the weeks of being able to make people jealous by telling them you are going to Jamaica, but you also miss weeks of worry that things will work out. Happily for us, everything has worked very well.
Our flight from Philly left a little late (time spent sitting on the runway), so our arrival was also a little late. Then the airline ran out of immigration forms when it got to our row, so by the time we filled ours out on the ground we were waiting behind another planeload of passengers. So customs and immigration were the biggest frustration. Plus the air conditioning was not working in the airport, so it got a little stuffy. But all was well when we found our driver Keven waiting . He took us to Jerkey's for the most fabulous Jerk Chicken and Festivals (cornmeal fried dough things...maybe Jamaican french fries?). Steve even had a Red Stripe (the national beer). Then we had an interesting 2 hour drive to Treasure Beach. We arrived at Jakes and were taken right to our cottage, Jack Sprat. It is quaint, but has 2 bedrooms, bath, sitting room and kitchenette. The best part is the bedroom opens out to a patio and covered porch that is right on the Caribbean. We hear the waves. The sun set right outside our front door. It is warm and a little humid, but there are constant breezes.
We got a Pina Colada and Pineapple Punch from Dougies (the bar at Jakes) and came back to our cottage to watch the sun set (at 7:30). Then went back around 9 for dinner at Jakes, including an interesting mango sorbet for dessert.
There is some interesting wildlife around here. If you like lizards you can certainly get your fill, since they are clearly evident, including in the cottage. There were some huge frogs out too, but only after dark. And we do seem to have quite an ant population, but the lizards must take care of the mosquitoes, since there did not seem to be too many in evidence tonight. We had the extra entertainment of lightening and thunder over the island. I presume there was some rain in the mountains, but we felt only a few drops. (Which is good since we were sitting outside at Jakes.)
Sleep came easily after getting up at 4:30 to start our journey....

Shock and awe

Can I just say how amazing it is to see human beings I've given birth to (so I know where they came from), turn into adults? I watched my second child graduate from college this week, and it still seems a dream. I know there is reality there, after all this is the year of 25s...College graduation, moving to NY, marriage, Steve at Kodak...all celebrating that 25 year mark. So of course my kids are getting older too. But why does it seem so amazing? I think I must focus too much on the days, while the weeks, months and years are flying past. I guess I am also amazed that something so good came from me! Especially when I am not always sure of my own worth. But, wow, it sure makes me stop and think I'm doing something right!

Of course I also give credit where it is due: Congratulations, Elizabeth! You're doing a great job!

Horseradish-Bitter Truths You Can't Avoid

"Life is a turbulent journey, fraught with confusion, heartbreak, and inconvenience. This book will not help".
Lemony Snicket's latest book seems to be just what I need to see the truths in the world in the wonderful way he does, with a lot of truth and a bit of humor. Helpful, not really, but truly amusing.

"Fate is like a strange, unpopular restaurant, filled with odd waiters who bring you things you never asked for and don't always like".

"It is one of life's bitterest truths that bedtime so often arrives just when things are really getting interesting".

Another Birthday!

Today is Matthew's birthday (happy birthday, Matthew), and I've been cooking and baking all morning. Although I imagine he wouldn't have minded cooking his own birthday dinner (and actually he will be in charge of the grill).
I have been running like crazy as usual...at least the usual that's been the last month, and will be the next month as well. I was in Toledo for the weekend (or at least the part where we weren't driving there and back, which was almost as long). I had a lovely time at Melissa's shower. I marveled at how much "stuff" they got. But they do seem to be very happy and ready for marriage, I guess. Its hard to watch all our "babies" grow up, especially since it makes me think about growing older too. I guess I'm in kind of a melancholy mood lately anyway. I did at least manage to stop crying, since that was all I could do for a few days last week. Don't really know what's up with that. And I'm afraid to think about it because the tears are still way to close to the surface. Maybe I'm making up for the years when I couldn't cry about anything.

Reasons to clean my office today

1. It really needs it
2. The piles are taller than I am
3. Feng shui
4. I have to find Arlene's check (if its there)
5. My memory is going and I can't remember which pile is which anymore
6. Arson is illegal
7. Olivia cleaned off her desk
8. I think I'm ready to part with some old papers (really)
9. Good hygeine demands I do it at least once a year
10. It really, really needs it and I've put it off too long

Decisions, decisions

Sometimes I feel like my head is going to pop!
We've spent the evening discussing financial aid and how much to accept vs. pay up front for E's first year at UB. That decision proved easier than I expected since my hubby did all the research. The only thing that kind of worries me is the comment about driving the van a little longer...But actually I'm okay with that. I hate to see her drowning in more loans than need be, and she did save us a year at Albright, so we owe her this one, right?
The harder decisions are still to come: I have to figure out what I'm doing for summer programming at the library. And what crafts I'm doing for VBS. Do I want to go to a wedding in Toledo or stay home and help at the Fiesta? Or both? What should we do for vacation this summer? A 25th anniversary trip? Where? Graduation parties? Wedding gifts? What to wear tomorrow? Is it just PMS or am I going insane?
BOOM!

Happy 21 st Birthday Elizabeth!

We enjoyed a wonderful Amaretto cake in your honor! (Matthew thought your cake needed to be alcoholic). After all, your family needs to celebrate even if you aren't here. Hope you had a wonderful day! I can't believe its been 21 years since the Sunday you were born, but it has been lots of fun.

Parenting from afar

May I just say that long-distance parenting sucks. Its hard to be away from your kids, especially on a big occasion. But also just when big things are happening in the world and you need a little reassurance that the one you love is safe and sound. Actually, lately we've all needed a lot of assurance. In fact, when I think about it, I'm pretty bad at being a long-distance daughter, friend, aunt, or whatever too. And maybe my close-up skills need a little work as well. So I hope all of you out there know I love you. You know who you are. Stay safe out there.

What if...

I am suffering from a serious case of the "what ifs", characterized by regret, moodiness and tears. I know I need to get over it. Which would require me to be forward thinking and relaxed. But that hasn't happened yet. At least this morning I realized that I could turn the what if game around and use it to find blessings instead of regrets. I guess I'll try that this morning and see if I feel better, or at least not any worse. I think I also figured out that's why I like playing dumb computer games and reading predictable, but fun, books...I feel way more in control, and there are rarely any regrets (except about wasted time). I guess I am a control freak in some ways. What if I could turn that around and use it to keep a clean house/office? There's a what if i should pay attention to.

My solution

I've solved a little bit of the annoying seams/tags problem by wearing my underwear inside out. It sorta helps. Guess I just have to hope I don't get hit by a car. (Well, at least its clean underwear.)

More edible books

I did some too! Here are all three.

Edible books at WPL

Penny and I decided to go ahead and make an edible book or two, even though the rest of the staff thought they were too busy (I guess). Anyhow, maybe next year we can do more. Penny put me to shame with this fabulous entry.

weekend, what weekend ?

I worked on Saturday afternoon and had a travelogue today, so I'm feeling weekend deprived. I did have the day off on Friday though, and went gallivanting, so I guess that counts. We discovered in our wandering the Tadco store where you can get baking/cooking supplies you won't always find at the grocery store. We bought some fun stuff like purple sticky rice (can't wait to try it), and some cherry filling for donuts or danish, which Matthew put in some almond bread. YUM! And we finally went to the Christmas Tree store, which was like a giant dollar store. We filed away their many inexpensive items for later shopping trips. (And bought a few things too. Elizabeth couldn't resist the dryer balls, and I wanted new cookie sheets.) I'm also on the lookout for VBS craft ideas (yes, already) and inexpensive stores like that often provide great raw materials. Its in the same plaza as AC Moore, and practically next door to Tadco, so I won't mind a return trip one of these days. Next weekend
is the Youth Group sponsored Easter Egg hunt, and I've planned a craft for that event too, so I guess I just can't help myself. :)
Now, if only my creative juices would write something for the Town Times I could rest peacefully. Well, actually it won't disturb my sleep, but I still wish I had something clever to submit. Tomorrow...

I am exhausted

So why am I blogging not sleeping?
I just worked essentially a 12-hour day. (Thank goodness for a wonderful dinner prepared by my kids!) Classes this morning, showing a movie, busy reference shift, Advisory Board meeting, and even filling the gas tank. But I still feel somewhat unsettled like I've left things undone. (Am I turning into a raving psychotic? Oh no...) I'm looking forward to chilling out tomorrow. I'm off to the pool first thing, and then maybe some shopping with E. Definitely need groceries too.

okay brain is shutting down. dessert and then bed. nighty night.

Raving Psychotic

Maybe I should change the name of my blog. Then perhaps I'd post more often. It came out in conversation yesterday, and its not totally untrue, that I haven't been blogging beacuse I would look like a raving (or is it ranting?) psychotic. I know, you're thinking, so what? Aren't most bloggers ranting psychotics? That being as it were I shouldn't use it as an excuse...But really I hate coming off as if I'm always complaining, and maybe in my mind those complaints were foremost. Anyway I resolve to strive harder to find non-psychotic things to talk about.
Speaking of yesterday's lunch...I enjyed a nice time with my 2 favorite college seniors checking out UB's campus, esp. the libraries, and an apartment for next year. I like that they considered my opinion important, because I really do want to see them happy. Yes they were excited, but so am I. Also just a little bit concerned...time is going too fast and I miss my "little girl". But since I really like my adult girl too I'll manage.

Hormones

Need I say more.
Okay I will. As I sit here with tears running down my face from reading another blogger, it occurs to me that this happens far too frequently. Whether from situations at work, or with Frances, or just from reading the freaking news, the tears seem too close to the surface. And then there's the 3 am inferno (I'm not ready to admit to hot flash, but I suppose that's what it is.) It seems I've felt things more acutely lately, and I always attribute it to hormones. Don't all women? I suppose it could be drugs...As I'm back on a Sudafed and ibuprofen regimen this week, fighting off a sinus/ear infection, maybe? I know I've had the most bizarre and vivid dreams this week.
Anyhow, love me or leave me, that's where I'm at.

I've been upgraded

At least my blogger has. I wish I could upgrade me as easily. I've been feeling crappy all week. I guess its time for the annual sinus pain week (month). But its felt like a long week already. We had a nanosecond power outage last weekend that blue-screened the IBM. It took the "doc" all day Saturday to fix it, but it seems all better now. Then we've had internet connectivity issues the last 2 days, so I wasn't up to tackling this blogging thing. But now I'm here and its not so bad.
Anyway I don't know where I'm going with this post. Just thought I should prove I'm still here. To recap the week:
Saturday we saw Eragon. Okay so it wasn't fabulous, but it wasn't that bad either. The nasties really gave me the creeps, so they did something right.
Sunday was the overpriced travelogue presenter who spoke way too fast.
Monday my baby turned 14, and he decided he "looked old". But we had a delicious dinner and birthday cake, so it was easy to forget the "old" part. I shopped all afternoon to find the "perfect" gift, and I guess he was happy with his Colts tie-dye shirt, but Matthew's C++ text was also a big hit.
Tuesday I stayed home from work, hoping my headache would go away and I would feel better. Hah. I drugged it away enough to get Josh to the cathedral where he was altar server to the Bishop for the Confirmation ceremony.
Wednesday and Thursday had no redeeming qualities. Actually, I just don't remember anything of significance to speak of, but maybe no horrors either, so that's good.
Tomorrow holds the promise of hosting a Star Wars role playing afternoon for some 14 year olds, so it should be lots of fun!

Making things "new"

This is the last time Blogger says it will let me in without switching to the "new Blogger". I really like this one. I know how to use it. I don't have to think. But now they are going to force me to change. I can't handle change right now. I just recently set up a Google Reader account to try and keep me posted on new blog updates. I don't even have that set up the way I need it yet. And of course the new Mac, forcing me to think backwards (or something) when I try to close a window. Don't get me wrong, I like it, but it takes some getting used to. I have been invited to the new j blog at Wordpress, but I'm not jumping into that yet either. I don't like what I've seen of it so far, and am not prepared for the immersion method. (Obviously I'll have to deal with Blogger or Wordpress or something if I'm going to keep blogging.) (That's a whole nother issue). And just in case you thought that was all, Yahoo! keeps pushing their new version of mail. I tried it for 3 minutes once and HATED it, so I went back. But I suppose they will be forcing me to change soon too. The world should know better than to try and change me during hibernation season.

In other news, at least I finished my Adult Programs brochure yesterday at work, so I feel greatly relieved. And I finally finished putting away Christmas decorations today, so that's another relief. Whew.

Scrubs

While at the Penfield library the other day I HAD to stop and look at their DVDs. So I brought home the entire first season of Scrubs. I'd never seen an episode, but based this decision on the fact that I read they had an entire musical episode the other night. I thought that sounded fun (thanks to Buffy) and so here I am watching (and enjoying) season 1. The show is fast paced and funny, but also serious and even touching at times. The best thing I can say about making another commitment like this is that at least they are 1/2 hour episodes, so you can watch lots in one night. :)

Word Play

I've been a crossword puzzle addict for as long as I can remember (that's at least 5 minutes right?). I'm sure well before I hit college, since even then my friends gave me crossword puzzle gifts. So I had to see the movie Wordplay when it came out. The thing that happened from watching the movie was not just having to do more puzzles, but finding a need to time myself. Its actually scary since I'm nowhere near as fast as the pros. But its fun to race the clock (when I can) although I don't often do a puzzle at one sitting. (Well except those easy Monday & Tuesday puzzles that only take 10 minutes)(when I bother). Anyhow, the point is that I am now addicted to the Yahoo! Daily Crossword. It times me without me having to pay attention to the clock. I'm thrilled to say that I average about 12 minutes. The flip side is that I get bummed out when it takes me more than 15. But its fun, and relatively harmeless! Yahoo for crosswords!

Subject of much speculation

The alleged Starbucks is shrink-wrapped; to protect from the weather, or to prevent espionage? You decide.

Heaven help me...

I feel old. And tired, despite the long afternoon nap. And achy. But loved. (Egad, I'm starting to sound like the Velveteen Rabbit).

I can't decide

Is the reason I keep doing things for teens, like making gel candles with them, or creating scavenger hunts, because I hope it will keep me from getting old? Or is it just to make me feel old faster? Ask me how old I feel tomorrow.

High Anxiety

As I get ready to go to work this morning for the all staff meeting, and then ref meeting, I'm finding myself highly anxious. Don't totally know why. And I don't like it. But I like my job don't I? And my co-workers? So I'm sure things will be fine. I guess I better get a move on so there will be someplace left to park. ;)

End of an era (?)

Well its the end of the Christmas gingerbread cookies anyway. I ate the last one. A cute little penguin in a tux with a blue bow tie. Yummy! It is time to bake valentine cookies yet? Or maybe Super Bowl cookies? Or maybe to start the diet.
Oh wait! There are still biscotti! Life is good.

Birthday Calculator

Try this cool birthday calculator. It tells you lots of fun things about your birthday. Try it on your friends too, so you know if you are "compatible".

The real deal

Well I found out the solution to the persistent headache is real pseudoephedrine. In order to protect me from making meth in my home lab, the government has set limits on how much pseudoephedrine is available OTC, and many products have been reformulated so they contain another chemical that doesn't make meth, and that you don't have to ask the pharmacist for. But apparently this other formula also does not work as well, at least in my body, as a decongestant. The downside is the fact that, while it works great as a decongestant, pseudoephedrine also keeps me awake. All night. (Except for the weird dreams). But being headache-free for the first time in weeks is well worth it.

Loud Wednesday

(N.B. I'm going to ignore the fact that I have not posted in weeks and just talk about Wednesday). It was in fact a very loud Wednesday at WPL. We had to deal with sawing and banging from construction outside the front windows (and on the roof?) Not to mention the rumble and backup beeping of the construction equipment. Then there was the alarm system tests that had high-pitched beeping,constantly, or so it seemed. Add to the mix of kids crying, Jack C teaching AARP (we closed the door), phones ringing and patrons complaining. No wonder I found my head pounding too. The only scary part was when we also saw sparks flying outside the window, and smelled something burning. Hmm...Never did find out what that was. Anyway I hope today will be a little more sedate, but I won't count on it. At least I've spent a quiet morning at home willing my persistent headache to stay away.

Post staff day evaluation evaluation

In retrospect I see that my staff day evaluation was not really correct. What I see in hindsight that I needed, without realizing it, was a confirmation, or validation , of the philosophy I have about working in a public library. First off I found out that not all my coworkers share my feelings. And secondly, I find it very disconcerting. And also the answer to some of what has been subtly eating away at me every time I step into the building. I have often considered how much the public service aspect of my job means to me. I've spoken of it as ministry, and some days I truly feel that way. That's not to say I don't complain about the nasty or scary patrons sometimes. But I realize the degree of empathy (thanks X.) that I do have and it makes me feel good that I focus myself there. But now I realize that there is room for improvement, and we could all use a little help (or a lot) learning to figure out just what the patron in front of us needs, and how to give it to them the best way. So that is the training I really think would be helpful. It would also be a wonderful thing if we really had a consensus in the building that the patrons come first. Not the "woe is us, we're too busy" attitude I sometimes get angry about. I see signs of hope in some of the newer clerks, who do truly want to do the right thing for people (and aren't jaded yet). If only there were not a few who sow discontent. We really do need to be looking in the same direction! So perhaps some training at taking the larger view; seeing the library as a community place. Explaining to each other what we really try to do with our jobs. Its so hard to do your job when you are always apologizing for it (to some people...).

The long awaited list

I got tagged weeks ago, but quite frankly I had trouble thinking of 5 things people don't know about me. My life seems to be an open book. (Well, except for the secrets I won't admit to here anyway.) So I've rewritten this list in my head a hundred times to make it interesting without being depressing.
Here goes:

1. When I was a kid I used to wet the bed.

2. I went to the Junior Prom with my best friend's ex-boyfriend. (Singularly the worst experience of my life.)

3. I talk to myself in the mirror. (Usually trash talk, sorry to say.)

4. I have an over- sensitive sense of smell. I find things offensive that others don't seem to notice.

5. My secret desire is to be a hermit.

Terry Pratchett quote of the week

It is in the nature of things that those who save the world from certain destruction often don't get hugely rewarded because, since the certain destruction does not take place, people are uncertain about how certain it may have been and are, therefore, somewhat tight when it comes to handing out anything more substantial than praise.
~~The Last Hero by Terry Pratchett

The party's over

Chai for breakfast
leisurely morning at home
bread and milk for Frances
wearing my pretty new shirt
Milanos for a birthday treat
cards, gifts and birthday wishes from my wonderful coworkers
busy ref shift
an E hug
pouring rain
out to dinner (yum)
Advisory Board meetings for Josh and I
chocolate birthday cake (double yum)
boo to Carlos for not giving me that home run
nighty night

Venting

I guess I should have blogged earlier when the steam was coming out of my ears (or perhaps my nostrils), but I guess I gave enough people an earful that I got over it. Sort of. Its almost not my business, but it is, at least marginally, my problem since it affects how I feel about my job. At least some days.
Okay, I've said enough for now. Gotta go knit off some stress and watch the rest of the game.

Lily who?

While I do know a Lily or two, its not a name I come across very often. But when I read Whales on Stilts and realized that Lily was the main character, something clicked. There's Lily Kane, Veronica Mars' best friend, and Lily Moscowitz, best buddy of Princess Mia in the Princess Diaries I've been listening to. And I have the nagging sense that there was another Lily recently as well. Where have they all come from?

I'm supposed to be packing

Honestly, I have no time to blog right now, but here I am. We are heading down to Pennsylvania to pick up Elizabeth and then to West Virginia to hang out for the weekend. I'm looking forward to it, hoping I can focus on the fun stuff. I don't like sleeping in a strange bed, or feeling like I have to make every minute count. I just want to relax...and not think about the messes I'll come back to. Okay that I live in, but just that they will still be here. Boy am I rambling. Must need to ingest more caffeine. Anyhow, I am looking forward to an enjoyable weekend with my family. Who could ask for anything more?
Off to finish packing and hit the road. Bye now.

Repeat after me...I am an addict

I am an addict. Why can't I do something once, have fun, and then let it go for a while. No. Not me. If I listen to one Princess Diaries on CD, I have to listen to them all. And the whole thing as fast as possible. Then there's Veronica Mars. I practically beg to get my hands on the next disc. And fresh delicious bagels...How can I eat just one? A game of Spider? Must keep playing till I've played an even number, or have a win streak, or make up some excuse here. I am an addict. But why can't I get addicted to vegetables, or exercise, for cripes sake?

Interesting patron question

So I had an older gentleman yesterday ask me about WiFi. He said he had a laptop and his son gave him a little box to stick in it (for wireless), but the question was this: why would I need/want to use it? I explained the concept of wireless, i.e., not having to plug your computer into a network. And I gave him the flyer we have with the info on setting up the wireless card for our network. He's using dialup at home, so I told him this would be faster if he wanted to do a lot of stuff online. I explained how it made his PC portable, so he could take a meeting at Panera, say. And mentioned how college kids like taking their work with them, outside or wherever. He looked very thoughtful, gave me the flyer back, thanked me, and went off with a rather bemused expression.
Another satisfied customer.

This quote resonates for me today

"The sole cause of all human misery is the inability of people to sit quietly in their rooms."
- Blaise Pascal

My current reading queue, in no particular order

Final account: an Inspector Banks mystery by Peter Robinson
Fool moon: Dresden Files Book 2 by Jim Butcher
The tiger in the attic: memories of the Kindertransport by Edith Milton
Kicked, bitten, and scratched: life and lessons at the World's Premier School for Exotic Animal Trainers by Amy Sutherland
Princess in pink (Book on CD) by Meg Cabot
Talk to the Hand: The Utter Bloody Rudeness of the World Today, or Six Good Reasons to Stay Home and Bolt the Door by Lynne Truss
PostSecret : Extraordinary confessions from ordinary lives by Frank Warren
You've got to read this book! : 55 people tell the story of the book that changed their life
A girl's guide to vampires by Katie MacAlister
New moon: a novel by Stephenie Meyer

Woo Hoo

I had 42 people at my Travelogue today. I feel so much better now.

I'm in over my head

Dear Diary,
It started out so innocently; taking a little old lady to doctor's appointments. I didn't need any emotional involvement. But now here I am; pharmacy aide, chauffeur, shopping assistant, sounding board. I can't tell if I'm too gullible (are her daughter's really that horrible?) or is she really just being devious so I'll come running whenever she needs help(i.e. daily), or doesn't want to be lonely. I don't want to resent her, but I do feel very sorry for her. (Are her daughters really that horrible? Or did she do something horrible to make her deserve the way they treat her?) Am I just paranoid now too, because I feel helpless? And why oh why do I let this anxiety fill me and spill over into everything I do?

I'm feeling frustrated

I had to cancel my first program of the "fall season". And even though I know its not my fault I feel like I'm doing something wrong. Its especially discouraging when some of the other libraries think that 30 people is a low turnout for a program, and to me that's a great showing! I wish I knew what was really expected of me. And that I didn't feel my job is superfluous. But I know it is, as I suspect that Webster residents could live just fine without library programs. In fact, most of them do!

Feeling Unsettled

I can't explain it, but I just feel kind of ansty these days. I can't stick with anything productive long enough to finish it.

Back to school, Part 2

So we filled out the forms, did the haircut, prepped the uniform, backpack, and lunch bag; And Josh went back to school yesterday. Today it almost seemed normal again. No fuss, no muss. But it still feels like the end of summer (it is) and I'm not sure I'm ready for it. Especially since I will have fewer excuses for going in to work late, or for staying away from classes at the pool. But it was fun to get the news about school at dinner. A few new teachers, and a lot of the "same olds". Today will be the beginning of the magazine drive...(magazines or renewals, anyone?), and another boatload of paper to deal with. The biggest surprise is that I did not in fact book a program the same night as curriculum night at school, so I won't have to miss the meet the teachers thing. I know its weird, but I love going to school for a night. It makes the teacher stories so much more vivid if you know who they are.
I'm still fighting the feelings that come with him being the youngest. I mean its 8th grade already, but he's my baby, right? So I still struggle to let go a little more each day. I've got to admit its easier when he steps in and acts responsible too. The problem is that I have to be responsible and parental as well. We'll get there...together.

True Confessions

I beat my children...at miniature golf.
My husband beat me...ditto.
I had ice cream and spoiled my lunch. (Okay I made it my lunch.)
I finally slept through the night last night (7 solid hours, maybe even a little more). And I felt great when I woke up. I can't remember the last time that happened.
I don't feel guilty about wasting time this weekend. I'm enjoying it immensely.
I'm learning to screen calls with my caller ID. And not feel bad about ignoring some.
No more blogging...today.

Rainy Saturday

I just want to mention how wonderful it was to have a rainy Saturday with no place to go. I loved being able to sleep in, lounge around, eat whenever, do the laundry in between chapters of a book, and generally just hang out. I could use another one already. (Or at least a Sunday afternoon nap).

Missing you, and you, and you, too

We've spent an entire week at the library without the wonderful young people who worked with us all summer. I miss looking over at the circ desk and seeing my daughter just enjoying her job. (You could see it on her face.) But the surprising thing is how much I've missed some other people's kids too. I know I'll get used to new people and personalities, but its not the same as having the ones I've come to know and love. And yes, I know they are in a better place (ok, maybe not better), learning new things and enjoying their friends, and their independence. And some of them (Elizabeth, Dorothy, Sarah & maybe even Melissa) will go on to be real librarians and enjoy library life forever. But I still am selfish enough to wish they were still here. I know their spirits hover around because I hear the laughter sometimes.

BTW, I had a wonderful discussion with Arlene today about how much she loved working with my daughter, and that gave me warm fuzzies too.

The Pennsylvania Report

We had a fun time on the weekend heading down to Longwood Gardens. Its quite a cool place if you like gardens and fountains and stuff (and especially photographing same). But for being very large and very well known, there was precious little signage to help you find the place. And like almost everything else in PA it was in the middle of nowhere. But we saw some fun things on the way there, especially since we took the "scenic route". There were the requisite corn fields and dairy farms, but who knew that mushroom farms abound in southern PA? We also saw an amusing group of middle aged men floating down a river on neon colored inner tubes, and a group of deaf motorcyclists signing to one another. There are several small college towns which reminded me very much of my trip to West Virginia last year. (In fact I had several instances of deja vu on the long winding roads.) We crossed the border to Delaware, because it was there, and had lunch and an ice cream at Brusters. And we went to Longwood Gardens. They finish the day with a lighted fountain show that was pretty impressive. And the fact that the rain held off all day was even moreso.
It was a sad thing on Sunday to say goodbye to Elizabeth, but easier knowing that we will see her again in October (hopefully). And since my family had just bought me a whole bunch of new clothes at the outlet store I couldn't cry too much.

Back to school - part one

Okay so now its really time to admit that the summer is just about over. We are heading to Reading to take Elizabeth back to school, and then Josh heads back in another 10 days. The little bit of maudlin thinking is creeping in, but I don't have time for it as I still have to pack my stuff. .. (In the few inches of space left in the car.) It seems like I've been to busy to even think lately, but I can't quite put my finger on what I've been busy with. Maybe too many books or dvds. Nah. Probably just my lack of organization makes me feel busier than I am. And when the time for doing fun things with friends has been squandered by lack of planning, well, I guess I feel a little sad. But we do have a fun family weekend planned, even if it includes the sad bit of saying goodbye. So I guess I should get started and make the best of it.

Survivor: Mom style

4 adolescent males age 13-14
5 hours
Volume set on Loud
Eating machines
Star Wars RPG
Everything's a weapon

But the fact that I'm writing this now shows that I not only survived, but thrived. I lived to tell the tale. I even got a laugh or two from my own lame jokes. I am Mom. I will survive!

19 days and counting

This morning as I (oof) keep pushing Josh away from the (oof) computer so I can have MY time, I am counting the days until school starts. I do love the child, and most times he's helpful and even interesting...But he doesn't always know (ok ever know) when to stop. You would think he would see the signs of my impatience when I've asked him politely to leave me alone, but quite often I just end up yelling exasperatedly for him to be quiet and go away! This morning I've asked him to go make me a cup of tea (please), which he does very well, so I am happy for a few minutes; but he'll be back.

Friday Haiku

Fun dying silk scarves
especially messy but
in good company

Just shoot me and put me out of your misery

I just want to say that after spending most of the week battling constant sciatic pain, I can totally understand why people suffering from chronic pain can be so cranky. Its unrelenting and oh so fatiguing. I just hope this knowledge makes me a better, more patient person (when I stop feeling cranky).

Thought for the day

From Garrison Keillor:

Some luck lies in not getting what you thought you wanted but getting what you have, which once you have it you may be smart enough to see is what you would have wanted had you known.

Another weekend where?

We spent another weekend, mostly at home, still digging out from packrattiness. I am taking it slow, but deliberate. And trying really hard to throw things away (if I can). We moved the family room furniture around for our new TV, so we now have an antenna that reaches the window to pick up as many HD channels as possible. Its pretty interesting to find that there are 4 PBS stations...only one HD but 2 other digital channels too. And another Fox station that does music videos. I don't watch much TV anyway, but the boys have been happy with all the cooking shows this weekend on WXXI-C.
I'm struggling with the fact that its already a week into August and I haven't done enough "summer things", whatever they are. Maybe because its been too hot to do any outdoor stuff like hiking and picnicking. Any strenuous activity sounds too hot. Well, maybe we'll make up for it in the next few weeks before Elizabeth goes back to school. Or not. I'm too tired and cranky to care. (Oh yeah...a cranky summer too. I just don't like heat.)

Another motherless Disney child

Did you ever notice how Disney movies portray mothers? Or not? Just watched Chicken Little: His mother is dead. Nemo: Dead mother. Bambi: OMG, we hear her get killed. Snow White: evil step-mother. Cinderella: ditto. Belle & Ariel: who knows? But their fathers need help too. Mowgli: orphan.

Kinda scary that this is the company people rely on to entertain their kids.

Let's get (a) physical

I have an appointment this evening for a physical with my family doctor. But I don't want to go. I didn't want to schedule it in the first place. I don't like all the wires and poking and *gasp* disrobing that comes with having a physical. I'm not sure what I hope to get out of this. A clean bill of health? I mean I KNOW there's something wrong with me, maybe several somethings, but it never seems to show up on my "test scores". But I know it when I feel crappy don't I? Or is that just what it feels like to be alive? At least I am alive, and that's a good thing. I guess I finally just gave in because they kept suggesting I have my physical since its been "a few years" (like 10 maybe). Next I suppose I'll have to go for another mammogram, but that's a worry for another day.

Deadlines and HEAT

Its happened again. The Town Times deadline sneaks up on me and makes me realize I need to get my fall programming together. And I have managed to pull together quite a bit of it in the last week. Its just the nuts and bolts of cleaning it up to submit the PR. Then the fun part of putting together a brochure and posters etc. No wonder I overwhelm myself. I guess I need to just take small steps. At least I'm mostly ready for this first deadline.
I am slowly also working my way through putting my bedroom in order the way I want it (and need it to be). Of course this means getting the junk out of the living room too, as I sort it back into place. And toss, recycle, donate or whatever I need to do. It is slow going, but I am soooo tired lately and so HOT. It promises to be a nasty week weatherwise, so it may be a good opportunity to lock myself in the bedroom with the AC on. As ever, the spirit is willing (mostly), but the flesh is weak (very).

Is there a 12 step program for this?

My name is Mary Ann and I'm a packrat.

The good news is that the new bed is here and installed and wonderful!
And the bed room is clean (mostly). Certainly better than its been in a long time.
The bad news is that the living room is full of stuff removed from aforementioned bed room. Lots of old clothes, books (surprise), magazines, dust bunnies. Well, we've released the dust bunnies to the wilderness of the vacuumland. I still have the task of sorting and discarding/donating all of that stuff, and putting away what I really want to keep. And really have room for.
Unfortunately I'm also left with major guilt for having let it accumulate like this to begin with. Maybe when I get rested up (in the new bed) and have the disposal task accomplished, I'll feel better.

But anyway, its very cool to have a new bed.

What's new...

Last week the research began on a new TV, and on Friday we went out and bought a one. HD and 34". Maybe more than we need for the little TV we watch, but the old one just wasn't working. And now we have wide screen for DVDs, which we do watch frequently. We had to buy it Friday night so by Saturday we could rewatch Pirates of the Caribbean. And we had to rewatch Pirates so we could go see the new one on Sunday. It was a good way to stay cool for 3 hours, and we enjoyed the movie too. We also went to see the Taming of the Shrew live at Highland Bowl, and that was fun. Here it is Thursday already and this week has been busy too. As we await the call from the Bed Room that our new waterbed has arrived I make plans for cleaning up and organizing my own bedroom, but have yet to take any action. Maybe if I didn't work, or eat, or sleep, (or blog?), I could find the time and energy. I know once I get started it will be fun. Why is it those first few steps are the hardest? Maybe I should at least wear a bandana today so that I can claim to be "cleaning house" like a (nameless) friend of mine. Will it work?

VBS

Here it is, Friday of VBS week already. The week always flies by because I am so busy. But also I am exhausted. I haven't slept very well because I worry. Or at least I think too much and then have trouble falling back asleep...which is why I've been up before 6 the last few days. It just makes 10 pm seem very far away. (Not that I actually go to sleep at 10 pm anyway. I just imagine that I will, when instead I will actually still want to read or do something else, but not actually sleep). Things have gone very well with the crafts. But I'm pretty sure from my energy level, and aches and pains, that I am getting too old for this. The planning and prep is one thing, but the execution is another. (Funny choice of words there...) But I still haven't learned to say no, I guess because I still enjoy it. Crazy? You bet. (Almost as crazy as making maracas with 160 kids. Pass the ibuprofen, please.)

How I spent my summer vacation

Got back this weekend from visiting family in Toledo, staying with friends in Ft. Wayne and doing "tourist stuff" in Indianapolis. We visited the Indianapolis Speedway, which really is huge, despite whatever you might think from seeing it on TV. And we went to the Children's Museum, which was pretty neat. My FAVORITE thing was a really fabulous Dale Chihualy glass ceiling. Wow. I could have stayed there for hours...Or moved it right to my living room. We also went to the zoo. The Indy Zoo has delusions of grandeur. Too much $ for too little zoo. There was lots of hype for the dolphin show, but it was a great disappointment. They did have an awesome dolphin viewing room, where you are under the dolphin tank surrounded by water. I planned to move that to my house too! There also is a really neat butterfly conservatory in the gardens next to the zoo (separate admission of course), but I wouldn't mind having the butterflies at my house either. (News flash: We are getting one in Rochester at the Strong Museum.) The nicest part of the Indy trip was seeing Kim after a year and half. It was wonderful to find out she is the kind of friend that you can pick up a conversation right where you left off, even after months apart. I realize again how much I miss having her here, but am so glad that all is going well in her life these days. PS to Kim: I had many, many of those homesick days when I moved to Rochester. I'm so glad your folks are trying to fill the gap. Mine did too, and I really appreciated it.

I'm outta here

Leaving town again for a week in the heartland of America...well not quite, but it is Indiana. I have the usual butterflies of anxiety at getting all the packing and chores done, but since there's no real time deadline I don't even understand that whole travel anxiety thing. I am disappointed to be missing fun stuff here, like painting parties and picnics, but alas, its a 4th of July tradition to go away. Maybe next year we'll make our Hoosier friends come here. Also traditional is that they have scheduled Vacation Bible School the week we get back. So I will have to face 150 smiling (I hope) kids that morning and do crafts! I am mostly, sorta, prepared, at least for Monday's craft, so I'm trying not to sweat that one either. But blogging might have to be put lower on the priority list (again). Sorry.
Have a great week and enjoy the fireworks. I will.

A mother's life for me

Its been a weird week on the mother front. For the first time ever I gave my kid the car keys and got dropped off at work. And left my kids with the car all day. Should I be happy, carefree, or worried? Maybe a healthy combination of the two. But its a little letting go that I'm proud I could do. (I forget what a control freak I can be sometimes. Or maybe I really need them to be dependent even as I'm complaining they should "Do it themselves".) Then there was the bizarre feeling of watching my daughter do the job I used to do/still do, working with patrons at the library. Smiling and happy. It tugs at the heart, and even the tearducts. (Yowza, hormones in action.) But also makes me so very happy and proud. Yeah, okay so I can't take all the credit...but for the good stuff I want to.

Customary asbestos infestation

I get some interesting spam these days. Lots of it. I never even open them, but some of the subject lines just make me laugh out loud. I mean, what are they trying to sell? Or do? I just don't get it. I mean even if I wanted to buy ephedra, or hoodia, or even pharmaceuticals, why would I buy it from some stranger online who can't spell? But it would be kind of fun to write some of that stuff...Even I can string together bizarre words as long as it doesn't have to mean anything. The junk mail I do read, because they are very creative, are those letters from African people who want your bank account number. "Please help, my husband/brother/uncle died in an automobile accident/perished in a mysterious plane crash/was poisoned, and I need you to help me get his money out of the country. But don't tell anyone..."

Maybe I should move further north

Did I ever mention how much I hate hot weather?

A new obsession

Its scary, but I've found something new to be obsessed about: altered books. (Google it). Thanks to a coworker, I now can't wait to get started recreating a discarded book into a work of art. I'm gathering some cool bits and pieces of art supplies and chomping at the bit to get started. Its even helping me get through my VBS craft planning and prep, as I keep coming across little "finds" that will be perfect for my altered book, while at the same time actually getting everything sorted and in order for VBS week. That little kick makes me happy and keeps me going. I know, I know, I already have too many hobbies and not enough time to do them all justice; but this looks like too much fun to pass up.

I have to go to work today...

...but I am so not into it. Probably because I stayed up way too late last night, reading, what else. I knew I was tired, almost falling asleep, when I sat down at 10 with Twilight, but I ended up having to finish it. There is something about my body chemistry or brain wiring or something that makes me become addicted to whatever fun thing it is I'm doing (reading, solitaire, crossword puzzle, knitting) to the point that I won't even give up to sleep. I am addictive about food too, I usually don't stop till I'm too full, but my mouth always seems to want more anyway. (Of course I eat too fast, and distractedly, so that doesn't help either). If only I could get addicted to work...(Sure I'll help you find anime at 8:58 pm. I don't want to quit working tonight anyway...)

Snoozing again

She looks so peaceful, asleep on the couch. I just wonder how she does it. And why she didn't do it as a baby. ;-) And I admit I'm a little jealous, because when I try to snooze on the couch someone always needs to wake me. For that matter even when I try to sleep in my own bed that happens. I guess I just wasn't cut out for sleeping. But a gal can dream can't she?

Wasting another Friday

Its fun when I have a day I don't have to go to work. I always have big plans to "get something done", but often I just end up frittering away the day with little stuff. Like computer stuff, or reading, or even crossword puzzles. I have it in my mind today that I want to go to AC Moore and look at craft stuff. Even though it is all the way across town. I suspect that I can entice my fellow non-working family members to go with me. There is stuff in the advert that I would like for prizes at work, and for VBS, and scarily enough, just for me for fun (like more yarn...uhoh). So I guess we are off to do that, although the weather is threatening.
In other news I got my van back, good as new; Actually even better, since all the dings in the hatch are gone. Now I'm just paranoid about getting hit again. But at least things turned out okay. I also hope to pursue the new waterbed this weekend, as we finally have a Saturday with nothing on the calendar. There is the issue of cleaning the bedroom, but forcing the issue may be a good thing. I've been really lazy around here lately, but I know I'll feel better once its done. So there's my goal in writing. Lotsa luck.

Excuses, excuses

Its time for the regularly scheduled blog about why I haven't blogged. And I really can't explain it. Sure I've had time. But I just haven't felt like it. I also haven't sent any letters, email, cards or friendly notes. I've given no gifts, nor called friends just for fun. I haven't even *gasp* been faithfully reading the blogs I normally do. In short, I'm just not very sociable right now. I guess it could be burnout from the many obligations I've taken on the last few months. But it could also be my usual nemesis of depression. I just don't feel like blogging when I'm depressed. (I'm forcing myself to write this now, because Josh - who himself only blogs once a month - complained that I haven't been blogging) . I don't really have a reason to be down, its just a general stresslike malaise. Maybe its the fact that I haven't been exercising regularly (that gets in to the vicious cycle thing..too tired..exercise..too tired to exercise...), or sleeping enough. Or the dent in the van. Or the fact that Dumbledore is still dead. Your guess is as good as mine. I'll try to do something exciting today to blog about tomorrow. :)

We're off to see the Wizard...

It was a wonderful Wizard of Oz! Everything came together. The kids were great, I had lots of wonderful help, the costumes held up and it seemed a rousing success. Because you want to see...here are some pictures: http://s50.photobucket.com/albums/f344/mskwik/play/
Thanks Matthew!

Sacrifices

Blogging
Email
IM
Spider solitaire
Reading books, or newspapers
Watching Buffy (or anything else)
Knitting
Sleeping
Exercise
Work
Eating

All the things I've missed doing the last several weeks due to play costume commitments.
All the things I would also miss if I went back to school, or tried to write a book.
Hmmmmm.

And the winner is...

My favorite conversation at tonight's dress rehearsal:
Student: Where's my costume?
Me: Who are you?
I had never seen her at practice, nor did anyone tell me she was in the show...I'm still sewing.

My favorite response to a costume tonight: The look on the Tinman's face after we spray painted his Nikes silver. Priceless.

And I found out that an ice pack really does help cure a headache fast.

Happy Birthday Matthew!

I have been so busy lately that this birthday thing kind of snuck up on me. I didn't even remember to buy the ingredients for a cheesecake (the traditional favorite cake) so I guess it will be Pineapple Upside down cake. I think that will save lots of time...no frosting needed. And since he mentioned it in passing last week I even have the ingredients. Actually its been 4 years since Matthew's been home for his birthday, so I guess its the first time I have had to worry about cake and dinner and stuff in a while. And I'm still up to my eyeballs in Munchkins, so it will still be a rather short-on-the-extras celebration. The real problem is that I have no idea for presents. And he is not giving me any clues. Suggestions anyone?

Wow its Wednesday already...

Didn't I just blog 5 minutes ago? And its May now too. Uh oh. Time warp. I guess I have been immersed in costuming for the last few days. The deadline looms, and I'm starting to feel the pressure. I did show stuff to the kids yesterday and they (mostly) liked the costumes. There were a few of the kids I wanted to smack (they were mistreating all my hard work!) and a few of the girls that were so sweet and helpful I wanted to keep them! IT doesn't help that we have a Marriage Prep session Saturday, the CROP walk Sunday, 2 AARP sessions this week at work and, oh yeah, a sign class on Saturday to set up for. And the 3 hour evening rehearsal I better sit through tonight to see what other costumes I'm missing. (Did I mention the flying monkeys? No one else did either!) But I'm still determined that I'm having fun!

I forgot how much fun sewing can be

I am up to my eyeballs in Munchkins. At least in Munchkin costumes. I am having a lot of fun with wild colors and patterns. And making them look nice and round with hula hoops (and I may try swim rings as well, since I've run out of hula hoops). But I am much encouraged by how fast it is going (the show is less than 2 weeks away) and by how really cute the costumes are. I put on the Munchkin Mayor's costume (all purple and yellow and big) and Steve thought I looked like HR Pufnstuf, which wasn't really true (ok, well, sort of) but it was really scary that he remembered HR Pufnstuf by name.

More TBF

I spent the day at the Greater Rochester Teen Book Festival doing my volunteer job as a photographer. I shot 2 rolls of film and then a few more shots, and boy was it hard work! (Its too easy to forget the camera and get caught up in things). But as I found out many others took far fewer pictures. In fact, I got some cameras back with 10 or more pictures left . But all in all I can't believe we did not get lots of good, fun pictures that will show people what they missed, and entice them to come to the next TBF (should the organizers ever recover sufficiently to plan another one). I hope that I get a chance to see the pictures that come back...at least some of them, because that's one of the things I like best about photography.
The day itself was great. The authors were all open and friendly and articulate. They were fabulous with the teens, and really shared with them and listened to them. I think that was my favorite part of the day; watching the kids who love to read, and who aspire to write, interact with some of their favorite authors (or perhaps even an author they just read for the first time) but clearly they came prepared and hopefully came away enriched.

TBF

When I took Josh to the Teen Book Festival volunteers training on Wednesday, I somehow was swayed (maybe by the bowls of M&Ms all over) to ask if they needed another adult volunteer. As if they would say no. So I'll be taking pictures with the "paparazzi" tomorrow. It sounds like a fun thing to do, and anyway I was going to go. So other than the fact that I will miss another day of costume prep (no time, no time) I am looking forward to tomorrow. I know it will be wild and crazy, but I hope that's because lots of teens actually show up and are excited about authors; And not just because things go wrong. Fingers crossed.

Happy Birthday Elizabeth!

You are far away, but close to my heart! Wishing you a very happy birthday!
Now I can go bake you a birthday cake...Chocolate, of course, since you are not here to object. ;)

I'm back. Sort of...

Well, I wrote a fabulous blog entry, in my head, around 3 am. Sorry you missed it.

Okay, since you insist I'll try really writing one now. Its been a long time since I last wrote, but I've really no idea how it got to be the end of April. Since then we have shopped for waterbeds, visited our friends in Fort Wayne over Easter weekend (went to church 3 times, got to hold baby Gianna, played Apples to Apples), then the family in Toledo (where we really didn't do much, just eating and a little shopping.) We also visited Castaway Bay and had water fun. (I especially liked the hot tub part). And then here we were, back in Webster to work etc.
For some reason I've found myself a little down since we've been back. I always feel like I miss people more when I see them after a long absence, and then have to leave again. Or maybe I'm just internally stressed by the subtle pressure of Pre Cana next week (which we are not prepared for). And the many play costumes which still need finishing. I feel nervous for the kids, who don't seem to be ready yet...but then the next 2 weeks will be intense practice, so they may be exhausted, but they will be ready.
I can't get in to being back at work either. Maybe a vacation was a good idea, but coming back was a worse one. ;)
I don't know, I'm just out of sorts. And I think visiting all those people without Elizabeth made me miss her more too. I know these next few weeks will fly by, but I can't wait to see her again. (Of course, that feeling is heightened by the impending birthday as well.)

Waterbed blues

I awoke Tuesday morning wondering why it smelled so terrible. Soon I discovered it was my bed...growing mold. Yuck. What a way to start the day. Anyway after a little research I found the culprit, a tiny leak that had apparently been there long enough to cause havoc. The worst smell actually came from my rice filled heating pad which got moist and, you guessed it, moldy. So sadly I disposed of it and started cleaning up the rest of the area. I tried a patch last night after work, but it did not hold well enough for me to sleep there. (My husband, being a man, slept on his side of the bed anyway.) So I slept on the futon. Thanks Lizzie! Since I still could not find the vinyl patch kit I went out today and bought one, and looked at new waterbed mattresses as well. I think I've got him convinced to buy a new one! But at least for tonight the new, reliable patch is in place. And the clean sheets and mattress pad. And I washed it down as far as I could (a water filled mattress is heavy). The test will be whether he starts researching waterbed mattresses now. Then I'll know I've got him!

Vampire musing

I was playing around with Novelist the other week and came across genre lists, including "vampire lit". So I put a couple of things on hold... light reading stuff. I'd already read the Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse books, and now I'm working on MaryJanice Davidson's Undead series. (Who knew vamps were so sexy). Anyhow, imagine my surprise when I went to visit my friend Frances yesterday and she told me that the Polish vampire had just been to visit her. I was rather curious, wondering if she was hallucinating or something. So of course I had to ask her what she meant. Turns out the Polish vampire is a young man, originally from Poland, who comes to take blood samples for tests. (In other words, a phlebotomist who makes house calls.) I've been chuckling about it ever since!

Welcome to the week from Hell

How do I know that this is going to be the week from hell? Two words. Time change. Am I the only one who thinks its a bad idea to screw around with the internal clocks of millions of people? How could you not expect bad things to happen? The man (it had to be a man) who came up with this idea should be taken out and horse whipped. End of tirade. Time to sleep. Or eat more chocolate; that might help too.

Writing a book

I guess it must be something in the air, but while I was at the library today I decided that I should write a book too. It won't be easy, of course, but there are so many crappy ones out there that I should be able to do as well. I haven't quite got the book outline in my head yet, but I think it will be something about a vampire library assistant with fibromyalgia who blogs.

Having fun spending other people's money

I had the great pleasure of ordering from Oriental Trading tonight. Just finished in fact, and now I can't wait til the package(s) arrive. I especially love it because I'm ordering stuff for the school play and for Vacation Bible School, so its not really even my money I'm spending. I love to look through the catalogs even when I don't need to order. In fact I'll probably start another list soon, since of course there is more VBS stuff to decide, and I will probably even get stuff for Summer Reading prizes with someone else's money (from work). Oh what joy! Even if it is tacky little junky stuff (Okay just sometimes), I still like it!

Monday's High Points

• I agreed to help with costumes for the school play. And I really do think it will be fun.
• All the librarians were back from PLA. And they brought presents. Thank you!
• I got the van inspected and it passed.
• I forced myself to go to the pool, and I did not die (agony, but not death).
• I got smiles from a few teen patrons!
  
• I got to eat the last cookie. (They saved it for me!)
  

Just for Fun...

Thanks for letting me steal this...

Four jobs you have had in your life:
1. accounting/payroll for my father's business
2. painting and roof-coating ditto
3. elementary school librarian
4. Library Assistant for Adult Programs

Four movies you would watch over and over:
1. Monty Python and the Holy Grail
2. Young Frankenstein
3. The Princess Bride
4. Pirates of the Caribbean

Four places you have lived:
1. Staten Island, NY
2. Toledo, Ohio
3. Dayton, Ohio
4. Webster, NY

Four TV shows you love to watch.
1. Star Trek:TNG
2. Start Trek: DS9
3. Buffy the Vampire Slayer
4. The Red Green Show

Four places you have been on vacation:
1. Yellowstone Park
2. London, England
3. Toronto, Canada
4. Hocking Hills (Ohio State Park)

Four websites I visit daily:
1. www.thehungersite.com
2. www.kodak.com - Birdcam
3. lizardpa.blogspot.com
4. www.watat.com

Four of my favorite foods:
1. Fresh bagels
2. Pizza
3. Black bean and cream cheese enchiladas
4. Dark chocolate

Four places I would rather be right now:
1. an Alaskan cruise
2. In bed asleep
3. having a chat with friends
4. PLA

Tuesday's advice

The people that get on in this world are the people that get up and look for the circumstances that they want; and if they can't find them, they make them.
-- George Bernard Shaw

Feeling slightly guilty

My wonderful daughter is home for the week on spring break and what do I do? I make her come to work with me on Saturday for 6 hours, admittedly it was a fun photo workshop thing, but it was long and I asked a lot of her. Then I volunteered us all to help at the St. Joseph's table at St. Rita last night. Again, fun and great food, but not her choice. Today, grocery shopping. Okay there was also looking at clothes and shoes...so I guess she got her shopping in too. But really its just great to be able to spend some time together in the same city. And to actually converse and share about what's been going on the last 2 months. So yeah, I'm really glad Elizabeth's home. And sorry if I'm being a pain on the neck to her.

A Bright Idea

As I lay in bed starting the string of work thoughts, wondering if I could skip summer reading for adults, I came up with (what I think is) a great idea. Instead of a drawing each week, folks could come to the ref desk to turn in their entry, pick a "numbered coin" out of a Treasure Chest and get that number's prize immediately. That could be anything from a gift certificate for the book sale to a choice of books from the prize box, or some other little trinket. Or of course one of the wonderful gift certificates we always get as donations. That will eliminate phone calling and people who never pick up prizes. It will increase interaction between reference staff and patrons; which has good points and bad...depends on whether you are a patron or ref staff, I guess. And it will encourage parents because then their kids will see that they get prizes too. It sounds like a winner to me. Now to see if I get objections at work. Or maybe I just won't tell them til it starts. ;)

Recent reads

Grave Sight by Charlaine Harris - Unusual powers lead to unusual stories, and this is no exception. I'm awaiting the sequel (or anything else by Charlaine Harris).
Pursenalities : 20 great knitted and felted bags by Eva Wiechmann. I admit it, it hooked me!
Bartimaeus Trilogy Book one - The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud
and Book two- The Golem's Eye - I love a djinn with attitude! I especially enjoyed Simon Jones and the audio version. Waiting for Book three.
The Hanging Valley : an Inspector Banks mystery by Peter Robinson - Standard British procedural, but it kept me guessing until the end.
Passages by Connie Willis - What a story! Well written, fun, and leaves you wondering.
Undead and Unwed by Mary Janice Davison - Vampire love life?
Currently on page 58, Travels with My Aunt by Graham Greene - It meets the bus test ...just barely, but its a "classic" so I feel I should go on.
Can't wait to start...Bite. You guessed it...more vampires. Four stories by "vampire" authors.

Look I'm posting

Every day for the last week I have thought that I should post to my blog, but I just haven't known what to say. I would think of something to rant about, but then realize that I'd already done it. Anyhow I did think of something to post about. That would be Frances. I volunteered to drive people to appointments when I was available, so lately I have been giving rides to Frances. We have gone to the dentist, the doctor , the grocery store and even the hairdresser. I really don't mind the time, especially as she is most grateful for the favors. But oh how I worry about her when she is alone. I know from conversations that she does have friends to talk to. But she has macular degeneration, so reading is not possible. She usually remembers what we have talked about on an earlier visit, but not always, so I do get concerned about her state of mind. But here's the thing that really bugs me...One of her daughters lives right here in town, but can't be bothered to do stuff for her mother. Okay, I'm sure she does some things for her. Frances had surgery last year and the daughter was there for her. But on a day to day basis she doesn't talk to her mom or check on her. Ok, really I have only Frances' word for it, but she is very upset about this. She is sure that she has done something to alienate her daughters, but she doesn't know what. And she lives in fear that they will force her into "a home". Now assisted living may be just what she needs, but she needs to come to that realization herself and not be forced. Also, she is worried about the cost, so she needs to be reassured and not frightened. I am afraid to get involved too much, and yet emotionally I already am. My job puts me in touch with shut-ins and lonely seniors and other needy people on a daily basis, and I'm finding it hard not to let my heart get in the way. But yet my spiritual need is to help people as best I can. And some days my spirit and my practical side are at odds. For now I will content myself with doing the little things as best I can. I offered to bring Frances some movies from the library, combining my spirit and my practical need to do something. And I keep praying for her and her daughters (and myself and my mother, because maybe guilt is part of why it cuts so deep.)

Judging Odyssey, the report

I spent Saturday as a Spontaneous Problem judge at the Odyssey of the Mind competition. The day went pretty well. It was crazy, but in a different way from when you are a coach. (Not the least of which is that I could sleep the night before.) I didn't see much of the long term competition, but doing spontaneous was interesting because the coaches never get to see it...just the kids on the team. So it made me feel special that way! I also feel a lot more competent now that its over and I see the people I worked with. :)
Suprisingly I had a St. Rita team in my problem, and more surprisingly it was the kids I coached last year (at least 1/2 the team)! They were wonderful at spontaneous. It was a hands-on problem (meaning that they had to solve it using "tools" and not just verbally). They worked really well together and did a great job! I was very proud of them (and honestly, quite surprised). I could tell that some of it was from having done practice sessions, since a bunch of the teams clearly had not done much hands-on practice. Which means even my hard work from last year is still reaping benefits for these kids, so that's great news too!
I really had fun judging. The only drawback was the misgivings I had about the rest of my judging team. They just didn't seem to get it that the kids really are not supposed to get advice from the judges. Sure we want them to do well on a level playing field, but the rules are supposed to be somewhat ambiguous to allow for creative interpretation. In fact the judging team was a little creative with the interpretation...but maybe I was just over reacting.
Anyway I did get to see a couple of performances of the long term problem including the St. Rita primary (K-2) team. They were cute as expected. :)

Judging Odyssey

At this time last year I was all stressed out and nervous because I had an Odyssey of the Mind team competing at regionals. And my son was on another team, so we were very busy getting ready. This year I feel slightly guilty that the pressure is off. I have no child or team that I'm personally involved in, so the last few weeks have been a lot calmer than previous years. But I am still planning to go to the competition tomorrow. In fact I need to be there by 7 a.m. because I am judging. And I've roped/invited others to go with me. So we'll all be up bright and early for a long day of competition. I'm still a little nervous about this side of the fence. I think it will be fun to see what the kids come up with, but I'm not quite sure I'm up to scoring their answers. I suspect that having coached I have more experience than some of the new judges, but it will still be interesting and slightly nervewracking. I'm judging the Spontaneous problem, so I've no idea what to expect until I arrive for the "Hour of Power" tomorrow morning, before our first team competes at 8 a.m. We are held to the same rules as the kids...Don't know the problem ahead of time, and can't talk about it til its over. It should be exciting and fun, despite the long day. I know it means a lot to the kids, which is why I got into it from the beginning, so I expect it to be a worthwhile day. And it will be fun to talk to Steve and Matthew about their experiences as well, since we are all doing different problems. Judges... Are you ready?