Thursday Ramble

Before I even got to work this morning I had about all the excitement I needed. I had to move the fancy BMW that was parked behind my ancient trusted and true and long ago paid for van. I had trouble figuring out how to put it in park. I thought I had it and started back up the driveway only to see it rolling down the street. I don't know I've moved this fast in many many years and I had visions of countless America's Funniest Home Videos I guffaw loudly at every Sunday, but I managed to catch it, hoist myself in and right it before it collided with anything or ended up in a ditch.

Good thing I slept so well last night so my reflexes were sharp. I slept well despite the fact that my lower back pain was a steady 6 and my hands smelled like garlic, which usually keeps me awake because I sleep with my hands under my chin. That's close to my nose and while I love garlic, lavender is more my nighttime jam. My hands were garlicky and the Beamer was in my driveway because Lily's roommate was in town for a concert and I cooked dinner for the girls before the show.

I'm in my element when I can put on a little dinner party, but last night wasn't my finest effort. I miscalculated timing and then the actual preparation of Smitten Kitchen's my lemon potatoes. They are usually crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Last night they were a tad charred and late. The Greek chicken was unevenly cooked. Good thing the naan and the hummus were without fault. The girls still thanked me genuinely for feeding them.

It's still cold here and I'm still not complaining about the wintry weather because it is winter. Snow is in tonight's forecast and the wind howling out the window confirms it will be stormy. Hopefully, tomorrow will be another work from home snow day. Friday snow days are the best. I've got lots to do with the kids heading back to school and our bon voyage to Mexico soon.

Grateful Friday

Today I give thanks for...

A snow day. We woke up to inches and it's to continue until this time tomorrow so we are hunkering down in every corner of the house.

 A long weekend.

I just happened to have a breakfast strata in the frig for this slow, snowy morning. Spicy sausage, spinach, challah and Havarti for the win.

Later I'll a bake a batch of chocolate chip cookies with oats and peanut butter, a loaf of Pheasant bread for avocado toast and another batch of blueberry muffins to take care of the less desirable stragglers.

Enough...extra. I was born into a family of cooks who always made enough for an extra guest or two because you never know who might come to dinner. Case in point was Ted's friend who  joined us this week.

A game night tonight and maybe my first hot toddy of the season.

Ted is home to help with the snow and watch Below Deck with me.

Sumo orange season. They are worth every penny.

This is Us is on Netflix. I stopped watching somewhere in season three. Two minutes into my first episode today, I was in tears. I think that's why I stopped watching it, but it's such a great show so I'll stock up on Kleenex.

Judy is on the road to recovery, and my dad is being an attentive care giver. I wish they lived closer so I could help them more.

Ted accepted a position with Price Waterhouse Cooper in Milwaukee to start after graduate school.

Peace. At least at Casa Wags.

A Good Night

Last night was such a good night. I didn't sleep well, but I still woke up feeling light and positive this morning. I'm quite sure the couple inches of snow that fell as I tried to sleep, contributed to my mood. The branches are pristinely painted in sparkling white. The joke is, it mostly rained earlier in the week when we were warned to stay home. Then there was very little hullabaloo about last night's system. They went straight to tomorrow when we are to expect snowmaggedon. It probably won't snow at all. When we are unable to predict the current conditions accurately, I question how we can predict the weather of the future. Yes, I question climate alarmists and I wonder how the eradication of my gas car or gas stove, will do a darn bit of good when we have China and India increasing their carbon footprints at alarming rates.

That's not really what I want to talk about though...back to last night. It was the extraordinary ordinary that always warms my heart and stokes my faith. The dresses I ordered for Mexico were on the doorstep when I got home. I was able to get feedback from both my kids and the verdict is that two are keepers. I was only going for one so that was a win. It's funny how a new dress can get me excited for my upcoming vacation. And I better start getting amped up because it's fast approaching.

Said trip inspired me to continue my workout streak. I won't say how long of a streak because I don't want you to laugh at me. Let's just say long enough that I am sore. I'm not a gym rat any more. That's where the rest of the fam was. I went to the basement with my entertainers trainers, Hazel and Gus. It is a strong 2024 intention to get stronger and more nimble. If I succeed on that front, other things I seek will follow. That's what the experts say.

Post workout, I got started on dinner. Mike joined me when he got home. I am perfectly content and in my zone going solo in the kitchen or eating cheese and crackers for dinner, but I'm remembering how nice it is to have help and a hot, healthy meal. He browned the chicken and riced the 10 potatoes I'd peeled. I made the Brussels and the pan sauce. Everything was ready at the same time. Ted and his bud made plates. Nay Nay had eaten and was going to pass, but then ended up having not only seconds, but thirds... thirds of the Brussel's Sprouts he claimed not to like. I definitely am not too modest to take that as a compliment. Secret is roasted and then topped with bacon, candied pecans and balsamic glaze. Lily returned just in time from the gym to get it while it was still hot. The boys went to the family room to watch the Badger game and we girls sat in the kitchen watching the news and talking about how f42k!! up this world is issues. It wasn't family dinner, but it was close.

Lily went out with friends and I went up for a hot shower that was sort of heaven. Instead of turning on the television or picking up my I Pad, I picked up my book. Now this is a book I've been reading for a long time. I won't tell you how long because, again, I don't want you to laugh at me. Last year was my unreadingest year of all. So few pages were turned that I forgot how much and why I love a good book. It is a tribute to Anne Patchett and her memorable, vibrant characters, that I still knew them from when we met at Webb Lake. I know I'll find out what happens to the Nelson Family this time not only because I want to talk books with Candace who is reading it too, but because I am into it...loving them. Into and loving the simplicity of life right now. 

All Over

I'm back home this morning before I leave for work most days. I was up and out early for an appointment to approve some sew-outs. It was still dark not just for the wee hour, but for the lack of sun and the presence of a cold driving rain. Today is the day winter arrives here. The rain will turn to snow and plenty of it we are told. (Finally I can wear my snowflake sweater.) I developed a little windshield wiper issue and decided it was best to get home and work remote for the rest of the day. I'm not going to deny that my cozy house with both trees still up was calling to me. I do not envy all the premature undecorators. I'm quite sure they are missing the hygge of twinkle lights right about now. I felt a certain conviviality with every house I passed this morning with a tree shining bright in the window. Cue up the Cranberries: Let it Linger.

The epiphany was last weekend so the twelve days of Christmas has only just ended. The city still feels festive as it should. Sunday we walked to brunch from my brother and sister-in-law's. Wisconsin Avenue is all decked out and establishments are as well.  We dined at the Edison, a swanky albeit largely inconsistent spot. I gave it an A+ on ambience and company, and a weak B on food. I probably wouldn't go back because there are so many other places to frequent.

Ted comes home from Cali today to a bit of a snowy mess. He had a fun-packed 10 days of golf, pickle ball, skiing, seal watching and spa-ing. Life is good. I'm excited to hear more about his trip and also the job he accepted with PWC. The house has been quiet without him. Presently, I'm enjoying relative silence except for ambient noise...the clocks ticking, the cat fountain streaming, the wind howling. Lily is sleeping in and Mike is in his office.

 

I think my best girl is enjoying this much needed break. Last night she came home from the gym famished and since I was just going for my workout (to the basement), she offered to make dinner. She whipped up a delicious Pasta Caprese with Chicken and she cleaned up too. As much as I like to cook, I could get very used to that. It was a new recipe that we'll tweak and try again. Tonight I'm thinking Garlic Chicken Cutlets and mashed potatoes because snow days beg for comfort food. I'm also going to make some bread for the same reason. Granola too and finally the Stuffed Cabbage I have all the ingredients for: a pan for us and a pan for my parents. I'm so productive when I work from home.

 

I tucked in last night after a hot shower with my other girl Hazel and as I was saying my prayers I had such a heavy heart for all people and animals suffering in this world. I complain about an unexpected car repair or the price of blueberries or Lily's messy room (which is btw spic and span right now), and I know what a privilege it is to have these gripes. As hard or as unfair as life can seem at times, it pales in comparison to the trials most people have to face every day.

I'm a bit all over the place today. Tuesdays are usually my days to be in my head...to take my temperature. I hope Gus knows how blessed cute he is.

 

Grateful Friday

Today I give thanks for...

A new year. On NYE day Lily and I went to visit Grandma and Grandpa and to take them some goodies. I'd made a quiche (crustless for my keto father), and a batch of my favorite blueberry muffins. What makes them the best is the almond crumble on top and then the glaze on top of that. We also brought Judy communion. She didn't know we were doing that and I cannot tell you how much it lifted her spirit. That in turn lifted mine.

As did mass the night before. We went to the Cathedral because Father Tim was presiding. It was our first time attending mass there. I much prefer the warmth and ambience of our church just blocks away. Father Tim delivered his three things though: safety, sustenance and sacrifice. It was good to see him and be seen by him.

Candace joined us for church and after we walked through the festive city to get a holiday drink at the MAC. It is a venue that I have a long history with and also the place Mike and I celebrated our wedding.

Dirty martinis and NYE ball head bands. Toasts to old friendships and new years.

A rooftop city selfie with my best girl.

NYE at the W's. Lily dropped us off and stayed for a visit with P, S and O. We had a lovely dinner, a fun game of Shanghai and a festive toast to the new year with $ in hand. Pete and I ate 2 pieces of herring each. I blame the champs. It's a tradition to spend this night with them. There used to be other couples and lots of kids. Such good memories, but it's quite good to be.here.now.

New Year's texts from afar. Pee and KP, the most unexpected. A video from my brother. A message from Ted who was celebrating in a castle.

My beauty queen.

 Back on the trails and the broody, moody winter sky. 

 This picture of Gus. I think I captured his soul personality.

 This sweet sweet sweet girl. She's saving my spot. 

The return of my kitchen mojo. Nothing inspires me more than people to cook for. Presently, that's people recovering from surgery and hungry kids. Who needs Marie Callender, KFC, McDonalds or Poppin Fresh Pies!? Homemade with love is always better.

Vicarious living and that they send me pictures of their adventures.

Ted is ready to accept a job to start after he graduates in the spring. He had three offers from reputable firms and decided based on long-term goals. We have raised a Zoomer who wants to work and thinks about his future.

The best ornament of 2023...

Christmas with adult kids...They make the cocktails complete with fancy garnishes, give thoughtful gifts that they wrap by their very own selves, like to linger around the table talking or playing games and genuinely appreciate all of the time and effort it takes to put on a party or two or three.

A new planner. Last year I had two that I carried with me and never jived with either one of them. That meant I missed a lot of dates. This year I'm working with one that I feel confident will work for me. It's not fancy. It's practical and that's all I need.

Back and Forth

 

It's funny, but I am usually more reflective this week than the week leading up to the new year. The days between the holidays are merry and festive. I woke on January 2nd to a strong shift in disposition. Before I can look forward, I have to look back. It was a year full of beauty and hardship, gains and losses, trials and tribulations. But aren't they all? 

In taking stock, there are so many things that I can do better, but did I show up for the people that I love and care for? You bet I did! Did I practice random acts of kindness? Yes. Did I honor my mind, body and spirit? Indeed. I'm doing just fine in the things that matter. Matter to me.

This year is no different. I will try and do all the things that one is supposed to do to live a healthy, balanced life. I will do the best I can and at some things I will succeed, at others I will not. It's about the intention for me. As long as I'm doing my best at the moment, that's good enough for me. It's good enough because I'm realistic.

I haven't had my word for the year epiphany. These days I think I'm more wired for word of the day. We'll see if it surfaces. If not, I'll live.

The next few weeks are light on plans and I couldn't be happier. It takes so little to make me happy. I'm most looking forward to cozy family time. Last night was such an ordinary, but superb night. Mike, Lils and I went for a walk and it was so exhilarating to be out in the crisp (not cold) evening air. We played the grocery game and the miles flew by. It was so silly that it was fun. Mike took charge of dinners. He's the taco meat master. Lily cleaned up the kitchen without being asked before going out with friends. Ted and Meryl FaceTimed from her California kitchen with a question about lemon curd made with the fruit from trees in her yard. Just a little envious about that, but so happy to see them in their aprons making dinner for her family. We cued up a movie knowing that both our kids were in good places and a cat on each of our laps. 

I'm not ready to look forward to our upcoming trip to Mexico. I know everyone else is and I know it will be fabulous, but I need some regular life and maybe some cold and snow. I heard from my aunt in Arizona that they got a couple inches overnight. It's been too warm here for my favorite wool sweaters and new corduroys. There is a possibility for a few inches this weekend, but it may also be rain. I'm hoping for the white stuff and enough of it for a snow day.