On Monday we had quite a wind and rain storm. We lost power at work twice, for 30 seconds and 10 minutes respectively.
Monday night I went grocery shopping. It was a slightly larger than normal list. While I was on my way from Fred Meyer (where I did the bulk of the shopping) to Costco and Home Depot at the other end of town, my cell phone rang. The power was out at our house.
As it was too late to do anything about it, I finished my shopping and headed home. It was fairly cold out, so I put milk and fish right next to the frozen turkey and hoped they would stay cold.
We do have a generator, and after finding out that the power had been out since around 8:30 a.m. we decided to hook it up to cool down the fridge and warm up the water. We got it running, but after everything was hooked-up there was still no power. I fiddled for a while, but as far as I could tell, there was no power coming out.
The next day we prepared for work in the dark and with little bits of very cold water. Anything perishable in the fridge was a loss.
I checked into getting the generator fixed, and it is expensive just to get someone to come out and check into what might be wrong. Happily, my Dad volunteered to come take a look.
My Dad arrived this morning and fired up the generator. It was putting out the proper voltage. He tested the cord. It worked. He tested the breaker. It worked. Everything worked just like it was supposed to work. There is a possibility that there was some moisture which was dispelled by running it for a while earlier this week. Anyway, now it works fine. And we are going to do something about keeping down the moisture.
In other news, I talked to my young friend's math teacher this week. I am going to begin meeting with her twice a week instead of just once. She has quite a bit of math homework on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. On Wednesdays we only have 1/2 hour, but we put it to good use last night.
Tomorrow night I get to watch the movie "Amazing Grace" at a friend's home. I am really looking forward to it. If you haven't seen it yet, it is now out on DVD. It is the story of William Wilberforce, the man who ended slavery in Britain. I have heard that it is very inspiring.
Last weekend we went to visit my brother who recently moved closer and took him and my other older brother and nephew out for dinner. We celebrated my oldest brother's birthday (which was on Monday). It was a lot of fun to be together with them again.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Friday, November 09, 2007
Onions Again
We had a special request for more French Onion Soup, so last night my young friend and I began peeling and slicing onions. The recipe calls for 8-10 large onions. We cut-up 9. I think the book's definition of "large" and the store's definition are different. I'm not sure just how we got onions that were that much bigger than last time, but we filled the crock pot so full of onions that we could not fit all of the liquid the recipe called for into the pot. Next time we'll do fewer onions.
We also prepared the makings for Hamburger Stew. That is what we will eat tonight. It sounds pretty good.
Along the lines of impromptu lessons, this morning the topic of why heating food up in a crock pot also stirs the ingredients together was discussed. I have known about why things go from solid to liquid to gas for so long, that sometimes I forget that the knowledge is not inherent in everyone. It was fun to talk about how molecules go faster as they are heated and slow down as they get cold. My young friend was quite fascinated by the idea. Hearing that heating water turns it into steam was particularly interesting to her.
We also prepared the makings for Hamburger Stew. That is what we will eat tonight. It sounds pretty good.
Along the lines of impromptu lessons, this morning the topic of why heating food up in a crock pot also stirs the ingredients together was discussed. I have known about why things go from solid to liquid to gas for so long, that sometimes I forget that the knowledge is not inherent in everyone. It was fun to talk about how molecules go faster as they are heated and slow down as they get cold. My young friend was quite fascinated by the idea. Hearing that heating water turns it into steam was particularly interesting to her.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Tough Questions
There is a special joy that comes from knowing you have helped someone learn something. Teaching has always been one of my delights in life. Over the years I have had many opportunities to teach a variety of people a variety of things. From coaxing a baby to drink out of a bottle for the first time to teaching an adult how to use their computer, it all has an appeal to me.
Last night when I picked-up my young friend from school she was very excited. She had a surprise test in class and had to compute both the surface area and the volume of a cube. She was confident, based on our lesson the night before, that she had gotten the correct answers.
It seems to me that part of the reason why so many kids don't like school, and don't do well in school, is because they don't understand what they are being taught. It is hard for a teacher with 20-30 children in her class to take the time to explain things to the ones who didn't pick it up when she explained it the first (or second or third) time. Or perhaps they just need to have it explained a different way to suit their learning style.
Along those lines, last night the topic of God and the Bible came up. My young friend had some very tough questions going around in her head. What would you say to a 13-year-old who wondered why God would kill almost everyone on the earth (the flood) or why God would punish everyone for the actions of one person (Eve in the garden)? How would you explain what sin was to someone whose list of sins was a grand total of one: murder? (We did come up with some more BTW.) And what does it mean when people say that Jesus died for our sins?
I am very glad she is thinking about these things and, with the Lord's help, I hope I can adequately answer them. These sorts of questions are the ones that we all need to be prepared to answer when we meet people on our walk though life.
Tough questions are good, because they indicate that a high level of thought and interest has gone into them. Tough questions are also wonderful opportunities to share the truths of God's Word with those around us. I hope you are prepared for that day when you are asked some tough questions. And some day we will all be asked the toughest question of all: "Why should I [God] let you into heaven?" The wrong answer will doom you to an eternity of suffering in hell.
Last night when I picked-up my young friend from school she was very excited. She had a surprise test in class and had to compute both the surface area and the volume of a cube. She was confident, based on our lesson the night before, that she had gotten the correct answers.
It seems to me that part of the reason why so many kids don't like school, and don't do well in school, is because they don't understand what they are being taught. It is hard for a teacher with 20-30 children in her class to take the time to explain things to the ones who didn't pick it up when she explained it the first (or second or third) time. Or perhaps they just need to have it explained a different way to suit their learning style.
Along those lines, last night the topic of God and the Bible came up. My young friend had some very tough questions going around in her head. What would you say to a 13-year-old who wondered why God would kill almost everyone on the earth (the flood) or why God would punish everyone for the actions of one person (Eve in the garden)? How would you explain what sin was to someone whose list of sins was a grand total of one: murder? (We did come up with some more BTW.) And what does it mean when people say that Jesus died for our sins?
I am very glad she is thinking about these things and, with the Lord's help, I hope I can adequately answer them. These sorts of questions are the ones that we all need to be prepared to answer when we meet people on our walk though life.
Tough questions are good, because they indicate that a high level of thought and interest has gone into them. Tough questions are also wonderful opportunities to share the truths of God's Word with those around us. I hope you are prepared for that day when you are asked some tough questions. And some day we will all be asked the toughest question of all: "Why should I [God] let you into heaven?" The wrong answer will doom you to an eternity of suffering in hell.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Math Problems
It has been a while since I have had to do mid-level math. That means the math that is more complicated than basic match (which one tends to use regularly) and not as difficult as really hard stuff. In this case, it was the issue of finding the surface area of a cube.
Supervising a 13 year old also involves helping them with homework. Last night most of the homework was math problems. The first set covered graphing. No problem. I have always enjoyed graphing. The second set covered finding either the surface area or the volume of a cube. I easily remembered the formula for finding the volume, but could not remember the formula for finding the surface area.
This is where my problem solving skills came in handy. I figured out the formula, or at least one of them. It involves finding the surface area of each of the three unique sides, adding them together, and multiplying the answer by two (because there are two of each of the three unique sides). It worked, and I think my "student" will be able to remember it for next time. This morning when I quizzed her, she remembered everything very well.
There wasn't time last night for much more than fixing dinner, eating, and doing homework. She has started basketball, which means the time after school previously used for homework is now spent at basketball practice. This means that homework will need to be done at home.
In addition to math, my young friend practiced her part in a play her "group" wrote at school for a project they are doing on the Nile River. I wish that I had seen the play sooner and been able to point out some basic flaws. But since they were putting it on today, there was no chance to make changes.
The story is, unfortunately, very politically correct environmentalism gibberish. The story is about a family with a cow that lives near the Nile River. A power plant is built nearby which pollutes the river and the cow becomes sick. The family goes to the plant owner and asks him to stop polluting the river, which he refuses to do with no regard for what he is doing to the river. They get half of the plant employees on their side and a toy factory is built nearby which takes away all the power plant employees. So the power plant is shut down and the owner goes somewhere else. Oh, and the cow gets well.
Although it was too late to change the story, I was able to share with her that not all power plants pollute rivers. And there are good reasons for having power plants. We also talked about what happens to human waste. I'm not sure just what they are teaching her, but she had the general impression that here in America we dump our raw sewage into our rivers. (Our conversation started when she asked me why people couldn't dump sewage somewhere besides into our rivers.) We talked about waste treatment plants and what comes out after waste is treated properly. It was a good conversation.
I can't help but wonder what other misinformation they are teaching at school. Maybe I really don't want to know. I would be too discouraged. I have a pretty good idea how bad it is without knowing all the specifics.
On a more cheerful note, yesterday's election went pretty well for conservatives. The initiative to make passing tax increases harder passed. The measure to make passing school levies easier failed. And the huge tax increase for transit failed. The one sad note was the passage of the measure to provide triple damages plus attorney fees for health insurance claims. People were voting with their hearts instead of their heads again. They don't understand what the measure really does, and I am sure the trial lawyers are rejoicing all over the state. (I called it the "guarantee attorneys get paid" measure.) I wonder if most people realize they voted themselves health insurance rate increases. I doubt it.
Supervising a 13 year old also involves helping them with homework. Last night most of the homework was math problems. The first set covered graphing. No problem. I have always enjoyed graphing. The second set covered finding either the surface area or the volume of a cube. I easily remembered the formula for finding the volume, but could not remember the formula for finding the surface area.
This is where my problem solving skills came in handy. I figured out the formula, or at least one of them. It involves finding the surface area of each of the three unique sides, adding them together, and multiplying the answer by two (because there are two of each of the three unique sides). It worked, and I think my "student" will be able to remember it for next time. This morning when I quizzed her, she remembered everything very well.
There wasn't time last night for much more than fixing dinner, eating, and doing homework. She has started basketball, which means the time after school previously used for homework is now spent at basketball practice. This means that homework will need to be done at home.
In addition to math, my young friend practiced her part in a play her "group" wrote at school for a project they are doing on the Nile River. I wish that I had seen the play sooner and been able to point out some basic flaws. But since they were putting it on today, there was no chance to make changes.
The story is, unfortunately, very politically correct environmentalism gibberish. The story is about a family with a cow that lives near the Nile River. A power plant is built nearby which pollutes the river and the cow becomes sick. The family goes to the plant owner and asks him to stop polluting the river, which he refuses to do with no regard for what he is doing to the river. They get half of the plant employees on their side and a toy factory is built nearby which takes away all the power plant employees. So the power plant is shut down and the owner goes somewhere else. Oh, and the cow gets well.
Although it was too late to change the story, I was able to share with her that not all power plants pollute rivers. And there are good reasons for having power plants. We also talked about what happens to human waste. I'm not sure just what they are teaching her, but she had the general impression that here in America we dump our raw sewage into our rivers. (Our conversation started when she asked me why people couldn't dump sewage somewhere besides into our rivers.) We talked about waste treatment plants and what comes out after waste is treated properly. It was a good conversation.
I can't help but wonder what other misinformation they are teaching at school. Maybe I really don't want to know. I would be too discouraged. I have a pretty good idea how bad it is without knowing all the specifics.
On a more cheerful note, yesterday's election went pretty well for conservatives. The initiative to make passing tax increases harder passed. The measure to make passing school levies easier failed. And the huge tax increase for transit failed. The one sad note was the passage of the measure to provide triple damages plus attorney fees for health insurance claims. People were voting with their hearts instead of their heads again. They don't understand what the measure really does, and I am sure the trial lawyers are rejoicing all over the state. (I called it the "guarantee attorneys get paid" measure.) I wonder if most people realize they voted themselves health insurance rate increases. I doubt it.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Cars n' More
My car started when I went to pick it up from the garage. They (bless their thorough hearts) kept checking just to make sure they had covered all bases and found that one of the "rods" that connect the battery to the car was worn down so that it did not provide a good connection. They replaced it and everything seems to be running just fine (cost: $44). The lack of a good connection may have contributed to the state of the battery. My mechanic suggested that I see if the problem is fixed before I go in to get a new battery. I cannot tell you how nice it is to know that you have a good, honest mechanic!
On other fronts, the autumn weather is presenting me with office temperature maintenance issues. I have only been in this office since June, so I have not experienced cold weather until now. I am learning how to regulate the temperature. This office has a very large south-facing window which gets the afternoon sun. However, the office starts out cold in the mornings.
To somewhat complicate the temperature regulation issue, the three rooms at this end of the building share a thermostat. There is one office on the north side; a large, windowless room in the middle; and my office on the south side. So my temperature regulation efforts go something like this:
1) Office door open during the night so the morning's automatic heat will flow freely.
2) Close office door when I arrive and turn on my space heater.
3) As the sun gets warmer, turn off space heater and then remove coat. If it is cloudy, I may leave my space heater and coat on all day long.
4) The afternoon sun usually makes my office warm enough so I open my office door for brief (or longer) periods of time to allow heat to escape into the large, windowless room next to mine.
Actually, it is a nice system. Since the windowless room in the middle is generally cooler than my office, I can open the door to quickly cool my office if it becomes too hot. And I am not inflicting my personal (warm) office temperature on anyone else (or wasting heat on a room that is infrequently used).
There are "noises" around the office that we will be hiring more people next year and I may have to share my office with someone else. I hope they like it warm.
On another note, I have had an unusual craving for Tootsie Rolls during the past two days. Happily, eating candy is not frequently part of my diet, so I doubt if eating several pieces of candy two days in a row will hurt me.
On other fronts, the autumn weather is presenting me with office temperature maintenance issues. I have only been in this office since June, so I have not experienced cold weather until now. I am learning how to regulate the temperature. This office has a very large south-facing window which gets the afternoon sun. However, the office starts out cold in the mornings.
To somewhat complicate the temperature regulation issue, the three rooms at this end of the building share a thermostat. There is one office on the north side; a large, windowless room in the middle; and my office on the south side. So my temperature regulation efforts go something like this:
1) Office door open during the night so the morning's automatic heat will flow freely.
2) Close office door when I arrive and turn on my space heater.
3) As the sun gets warmer, turn off space heater and then remove coat. If it is cloudy, I may leave my space heater and coat on all day long.
4) The afternoon sun usually makes my office warm enough so I open my office door for brief (or longer) periods of time to allow heat to escape into the large, windowless room next to mine.
Actually, it is a nice system. Since the windowless room in the middle is generally cooler than my office, I can open the door to quickly cool my office if it becomes too hot. And I am not inflicting my personal (warm) office temperature on anyone else (or wasting heat on a room that is infrequently used).
There are "noises" around the office that we will be hiring more people next year and I may have to share my office with someone else. I hope they like it warm.
On another note, I have had an unusual craving for Tootsie Rolls during the past two days. Happily, eating candy is not frequently part of my diet, so I doubt if eating several pieces of candy two days in a row will hurt me.
Monday, November 05, 2007
Weekend Meetings
On Saturday I had two Young Republican meetings, one for the state and one for the county. Between getting ready, driving to and from, and attending the meetings, my Saturday was more-or-less shot.
I took my car to the shop this morning and they called to let me know that it IS the battery. The battery has "sulphated" which means it doesn't build-up a proper charge and its charge is slowly going down. Happily, it is still under warranty and so I can get it replaced free.
On other fronts, my older brother Will has moved to Lynnwood! I am so excited! It will be so nice to have him closer. He has lived 20-hours away (one-way) since I was around 14 years old, so visits were rare. He came to visit on Sunday afternoon and it was so good to see him again! It was extra exciting to think that we would get to see him more regularly.
I also managed to squeeze in some more work on organizing our DVD collection. Just a few more weekends and I should be all caught-up. Then all I will have to do is keep-up with any new DVDs that are burned each week. My Dad has been working on burning our VHS collection to DVD, so there will be new stuff to enter for several months to come.
Mom and Dad are going on a short vacation to Disneyland in CA this week. It is one of those free trips you get from listening to a presentation on purchasing time-shares or something like that (they did not buy anything). They have never been to Disneyland, so I'm sure they will have fun.
This week I will be staying with one of my co-worker's daughter while he is gone on a business trip. This is the same young lady that I stayed with before. We will continue cooking lessons as well as work on homework. Her latest grades showed some improvement, which is very encouraging.
I took my car to the shop this morning and they called to let me know that it IS the battery. The battery has "sulphated" which means it doesn't build-up a proper charge and its charge is slowly going down. Happily, it is still under warranty and so I can get it replaced free.
On other fronts, my older brother Will has moved to Lynnwood! I am so excited! It will be so nice to have him closer. He has lived 20-hours away (one-way) since I was around 14 years old, so visits were rare. He came to visit on Sunday afternoon and it was so good to see him again! It was extra exciting to think that we would get to see him more regularly.
I also managed to squeeze in some more work on organizing our DVD collection. Just a few more weekends and I should be all caught-up. Then all I will have to do is keep-up with any new DVDs that are burned each week. My Dad has been working on burning our VHS collection to DVD, so there will be new stuff to enter for several months to come.
Mom and Dad are going on a short vacation to Disneyland in CA this week. It is one of those free trips you get from listening to a presentation on purchasing time-shares or something like that (they did not buy anything). They have never been to Disneyland, so I'm sure they will have fun.
This week I will be staying with one of my co-worker's daughter while he is gone on a business trip. This is the same young lady that I stayed with before. We will continue cooking lessons as well as work on homework. Her latest grades showed some improvement, which is very encouraging.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Done!
Here is my faithful piano, all fixed up, cleaned up, polished up, and ready to be tuned (and played). Now I just need to find a tuner in the area that won't charge an arm and a leg. I also discovered that E2 is missing two strings, so I plan to get those replaced as well.On other fronts, I donated blood today. The guy who started the needle was pretty new. He started work just 1.5 months ago. I could tell he is still a bit hesitant and he was very careful.
Unfortunately, he was also a bit inexperienced. My veins are big enough, they are just a tad bit awkward to skewer. After he got it going I had to call one of the other workers over (he had gone on to someone else) and have them readjust the needle because the blood was starting to slow down. However, we got it all fixed up and completed the donation in a total of 13 minutes.
Last time I donated I worked to increase my heart rate and managed to finish in 7 minutes. This is still a far cry from my sister's standard (and highly fast) donation time of 4 minutes. I'm not trying to match her, but I am interested to see what techniques can be used to reduce the donation time required.
My car didn't start this morning. I suspected it was a bad battery lead and managed to get it started with my jumper battery. The Schwab Tire guys cleaned the leads up, but they told me they had to bang on the starter to get it running again. I hope I don't have to do that too many times (because I don't know where the starter is). I made an appointment to get the starter replaced, but they didn't have an opening until next Monday morning. I'm praying the Lord will keep it running until then.
On the work front, I'm learning how to use SharePoint Services to design a website. It is looking like this will be a great option for a project I'm working on right now. I am already wishing that I had gone this direction sooner.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
White Keys Done
The white keys are done! They are all leveled out and I am fairly pleased with the results. Many thanks to the two piano repair men who took time to explain the process to me.
Now all I have left is the black keys. They are proving to be more difficult in one way and easier in another. They are easier because there are not as many of them and they are not actually next to each other so slight differences don't show up. They are harder because they are not actually next to each other and slight differences don't show up. What should I level them out to? If I level them out to each other, it is hard to do because they are not next to each other. If I level them out to the white keys (with an eye on the other black ones), what spot do I choose as the standard? How far down should they be in relation to the white ones? This and other questions are now swirling around in my head. I will need to make a decision soon.
In other news, work is almost back to normal (whatever that is). That means I have time to blog during lunch (which I have found works best because it helps me take an actual lunch).
Last weekend I attended the semi-annual Board of Director's Meeting for WFRW in Gig Harbor. The meeting went well. My duties were performed efficiently. The checks balanced at the end of the day. What more could I ask for?
I also had a few minutes this weekend to continue organizing our DVD collection. Dad has been organizing the basement and Mom made progress on organizing the house. My sister worked on organizing her room. There seems to be an organizing bug going around in our house. It makes me happy!
Now all I have left is the black keys. They are proving to be more difficult in one way and easier in another. They are easier because there are not as many of them and they are not actually next to each other so slight differences don't show up. They are harder because they are not actually next to each other and slight differences don't show up. What should I level them out to? If I level them out to each other, it is hard to do because they are not next to each other. If I level them out to the white keys (with an eye on the other black ones), what spot do I choose as the standard? How far down should they be in relation to the white ones? This and other questions are now swirling around in my head. I will need to make a decision soon.
In other news, work is almost back to normal (whatever that is). That means I have time to blog during lunch (which I have found works best because it helps me take an actual lunch).
Last weekend I attended the semi-annual Board of Director's Meeting for WFRW in Gig Harbor. The meeting went well. My duties were performed efficiently. The checks balanced at the end of the day. What more could I ask for?
I also had a few minutes this weekend to continue organizing our DVD collection. Dad has been organizing the basement and Mom made progress on organizing the house. My sister worked on organizing her room. There seems to be an organizing bug going around in our house. It makes me happy!
Friday, October 26, 2007
Quick Post
At the suggestion of a friend, I am posting a brief message to let all who care know that I am alive and well, just busy.
-The piano keys are now on the piano; about half of them have been leveled at least twice. I can tell multiple sessions will be involved before they are just right.
-I took advantage of the good weather on Tuesday and mowed the lawns (or some of them).
-My brother and sister-in-law were in a car accident on Wednesday, but are doing well. Not so their Ford 350 truck. Better it than them.
-Last night's cooking lesson went well. We covered "browning" hamburger and draining canned beans. She's getting good at chopping onions.
-I'm off to a meeting in Gig Harbor which will keep me busy through tomorrow afternoon.
-The piano keys are now on the piano; about half of them have been leveled at least twice. I can tell multiple sessions will be involved before they are just right.
-I took advantage of the good weather on Tuesday and mowed the lawns (or some of them).
-My brother and sister-in-law were in a car accident on Wednesday, but are doing well. Not so their Ford 350 truck. Better it than them.
-Last night's cooking lesson went well. We covered "browning" hamburger and draining canned beans. She's getting good at chopping onions.
-I'm off to a meeting in Gig Harbor which will keep me busy through tomorrow afternoon.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Chicken Is Not Beef
The cooking lessons from last week have been expanded into a regular feature. My plans now include taking the young lady grocery shopping once a week followed by assisting her with the preparations for the slow-cooker meal to be cooked the following day. We are combining this with spelling lessons.
Last night was the first of these occasions. I carefully explained to the parent that the young lady would need to pick a recipe from the book, have it approved, and then make a shopping list for any ingredients not already in the house. All was duly noted and executed...or so everyone thought.
Here's a summary of our conversation after I picked her up from school. Me: "So, where is the shopping list?" Her: "I have it right here in my school backpack somewhere." The backpack is searched. Her: "I can't find it." Me: "Do you remember what was on the list?" Her: "We need an onion." Me: "What is the recipe you choose?" Her: "Chinese Chicken." Me: "So we need to get some chicken?" Her: "Yes." Me: "Do you remember anything else?" Her: "I think there was a spice we needed." etc.
When we arrived at the grocery store we looked through several cookbooks and, although we didn't find any Chinese Chicken recipes, we did notice that Chinese recipes often included ginger. After another discussion we decided that this was probably the spice they needed. So we got chicken, an onion, and some ginger.
As we carried the groceries into her house I saw the cookbook sitting on the counter open to the page continuing the recipe "Chinese Pot Roast." "Is this the recipe?" I asked. The response came back, "Yes." "It is for pot roast, not chicken." I state. "Can we just use chicken instead?" came the reply.
Ah well, at least it WAS ginger that we needed. A quick trip back to the grocery store produced a pot roast and the chicken has gone into the freezer for a future recipe. The spelling lesson went very well. The cooking lesson also went well. There is a marked improvement in the stick-with-it skills. She didn't leave the kitchen till the whole thing was more-or-less ready to go. She is getting good at chopping up onions (without rubbing her eyes). She is learning very quickly and is very enthusiastic about cooking.
I must admit though, her idea of measuring and my idea of measuring don't quite measure up. I have a precise, chemistry-oriented idea of what measuring means. Her style is more like that of a very good friend of mine (who is also a great cook). That style involves getting lots of dishes and counter tops dirty when preparing a meal. And as long as you measure close to the line, that is just as good as on the line. Right? (Wrong...at least for some things.) I find myself following her around the kitchen not only to give her advice on food preparation, but also to wipe up counters, and wash dishes while she prepares the food. We are also working on the difference between a teaspoon and a tablespoon. (An important difference I might note.)
The skill of estimating also needs to be improved. The recipe called for browning the pot roast in a frying pan. The frying pan she selected didn't hold the roast...at least not without sticking up over the edges in several spot. Ah well, we all learned these things somewhere along the line. We traded frying pans and all was well.
On the home front, I have been getting home at comparatively normal hour and am trying to get the piano keys off the floor and back where they belong. Of course, since I am not one to do things half-way, I am carefully cleaning each key before putting it back into place. It is amazing how long it takes to clean each key. How does dirt get up under the edge of the key anyway? I understand how the sides of the keys get dirty, and this is the best time to remove 50+ years worth of finger grease, but it does take a while to clean all of the edges.
I have about 12 keys to go. Then the "real" fun begins...leveling them out. I tried it just a little bit on Monday night with the keys I already had in place, and immediately saw that it was going to be very tricky. The first thing I have to do is decide which "level" to use as the standard and make all the other keys match by inserting one or more of the various thicknesses of paper spacers. It is not as easy as you might think. I suspect that I will end up taking out just about every single key multiple times before I get it all nice and even.
Last night was the first of these occasions. I carefully explained to the parent that the young lady would need to pick a recipe from the book, have it approved, and then make a shopping list for any ingredients not already in the house. All was duly noted and executed...or so everyone thought.
Here's a summary of our conversation after I picked her up from school. Me: "So, where is the shopping list?" Her: "I have it right here in my school backpack somewhere." The backpack is searched. Her: "I can't find it." Me: "Do you remember what was on the list?" Her: "We need an onion." Me: "What is the recipe you choose?" Her: "Chinese Chicken." Me: "So we need to get some chicken?" Her: "Yes." Me: "Do you remember anything else?" Her: "I think there was a spice we needed." etc.
When we arrived at the grocery store we looked through several cookbooks and, although we didn't find any Chinese Chicken recipes, we did notice that Chinese recipes often included ginger. After another discussion we decided that this was probably the spice they needed. So we got chicken, an onion, and some ginger.
As we carried the groceries into her house I saw the cookbook sitting on the counter open to the page continuing the recipe "Chinese Pot Roast." "Is this the recipe?" I asked. The response came back, "Yes." "It is for pot roast, not chicken." I state. "Can we just use chicken instead?" came the reply.
Ah well, at least it WAS ginger that we needed. A quick trip back to the grocery store produced a pot roast and the chicken has gone into the freezer for a future recipe. The spelling lesson went very well. The cooking lesson also went well. There is a marked improvement in the stick-with-it skills. She didn't leave the kitchen till the whole thing was more-or-less ready to go. She is getting good at chopping up onions (without rubbing her eyes). She is learning very quickly and is very enthusiastic about cooking.
I must admit though, her idea of measuring and my idea of measuring don't quite measure up. I have a precise, chemistry-oriented idea of what measuring means. Her style is more like that of a very good friend of mine (who is also a great cook). That style involves getting lots of dishes and counter tops dirty when preparing a meal. And as long as you measure close to the line, that is just as good as on the line. Right? (Wrong...at least for some things.) I find myself following her around the kitchen not only to give her advice on food preparation, but also to wipe up counters, and wash dishes while she prepares the food. We are also working on the difference between a teaspoon and a tablespoon. (An important difference I might note.)
The skill of estimating also needs to be improved. The recipe called for browning the pot roast in a frying pan. The frying pan she selected didn't hold the roast...at least not without sticking up over the edges in several spot. Ah well, we all learned these things somewhere along the line. We traded frying pans and all was well.
On the home front, I have been getting home at comparatively normal hour and am trying to get the piano keys off the floor and back where they belong. Of course, since I am not one to do things half-way, I am carefully cleaning each key before putting it back into place. It is amazing how long it takes to clean each key. How does dirt get up under the edge of the key anyway? I understand how the sides of the keys get dirty, and this is the best time to remove 50+ years worth of finger grease, but it does take a while to clean all of the edges.
I have about 12 keys to go. Then the "real" fun begins...leveling them out. I tried it just a little bit on Monday night with the keys I already had in place, and immediately saw that it was going to be very tricky. The first thing I have to do is decide which "level" to use as the standard and make all the other keys match by inserting one or more of the various thicknesses of paper spacers. It is not as easy as you might think. I suspect that I will end up taking out just about every single key multiple times before I get it all nice and even.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Cooking Lessons
Cooking lessons are going well. The young lady in question really enjoyed going through the slow-cooker cookbook and selecting the four recipes she would be making this week. Then I showed her how to organize her shopping list into grocery store departments, and we went shopping.
She is also enjoying the cooking itself, although she tends to get distracted. Just about every time she completes a step she walks away from the project and I have to call her back. "What is the next step?" I say. "Oh yea," she says. Then she happily returns and reads the directions for the next step. We need to work on the "stick with it till you are done" skill-set. We also need to work on the "not skipping a part of the step" skill. When you are cooking, every sentence matters.
Our lessons have included such practical matters as: how to handle raw meat (and the cleaning with soap and hot water required afterwards); how to peal and cut-up onions (while avoiding touching your watering eyes); and how to do dishes. Much to my amazement, she acted like she had never done dishes before (except to rinse them and put them in the dishwasher).
We also review her homework every evening and discuss the five food groups at every meal. In our spare time we are working on a puzzle. Because she gets on the school bus so early each day, I have been getting to work early. I also leave work 15 minutes early to pick her up from the after-school program she participates in. Actually, I think it is a good idea (for single-parent families) to have a program where the child stays after school in a supervised environment (or at least much better than some of the alternatives). She gets her homework done, and there is no TV available.
Yesterday a co-worker asked me how I liked "being a parent." I said it was fine, but thought to myself that this was no comparison to the real thing; not to mention that it is a lot less work. I would be deceiving myself if I compared staying with a pretty-much-already-raised 13-year old for 4 days with the real job of parenting!
She is also enjoying the cooking itself, although she tends to get distracted. Just about every time she completes a step she walks away from the project and I have to call her back. "What is the next step?" I say. "Oh yea," she says. Then she happily returns and reads the directions for the next step. We need to work on the "stick with it till you are done" skill-set. We also need to work on the "not skipping a part of the step" skill. When you are cooking, every sentence matters.
Our lessons have included such practical matters as: how to handle raw meat (and the cleaning with soap and hot water required afterwards); how to peal and cut-up onions (while avoiding touching your watering eyes); and how to do dishes. Much to my amazement, she acted like she had never done dishes before (except to rinse them and put them in the dishwasher).
We also review her homework every evening and discuss the five food groups at every meal. In our spare time we are working on a puzzle. Because she gets on the school bus so early each day, I have been getting to work early. I also leave work 15 minutes early to pick her up from the after-school program she participates in. Actually, I think it is a good idea (for single-parent families) to have a program where the child stays after school in a supervised environment (or at least much better than some of the alternatives). She gets her homework done, and there is no TV available.
Yesterday a co-worker asked me how I liked "being a parent." I said it was fine, but thought to myself that this was no comparison to the real thing; not to mention that it is a lot less work. I would be deceiving myself if I compared staying with a pretty-much-already-raised 13-year old for 4 days with the real job of parenting!
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Activities
Last Thursday evening I squeezed in 1/2 hour on the piano project. I was able to get 20 keys cleaned and put back into place. Once I get the other 68 done, I can begin the not-unsubstantial task of leveling them all out.
On Saturday I continued the huge project of cataloging and organizing our DVD library. I was able to clear-out a section of our VHS collection to make room for the DVDs. Dad is working on burning the best of the VHS collection to DVD before the VHS tapes totally disintegrate.
At YRs on Saturday evening we watched the next section from "Commanding Heights," which was fascinating. We also discussed all of the initiatives and ballot measures on the November ballot. There were a couple that I had not heard about before.
Yesterday I went back to the doctor to get the results from my blood tests. I am happy to report that I am now certifiably healthy. The test results were absolutely normal and healthy. My good cholesterol was a bit high and my bad cholesterol was on the low side. The doctor was very pleased. I also discovered that I have a bit of athlete's foot. So the battle has been engaged.
Last night I managed to get home before 9:00 p.m. for the first time in almost two weeks and was able to get a limited amount of work done. However, I did not make any more progress on the piano. I was way too busy trying to get some essential stuff done like laundry, cleaning, and installing the new mini-blind in the study. I also disinfected the insides of all of my shoes as the doctor recommended.
This morning I got up early so I could be at work early for our annual business park owners association meeting. I typed-up the minutes and distributed an updated business park directory before noon. The meeting went well, and my duties as secretary are pretty much over again until next fall.
This evening I begin staying with a co-worker's 13-year-old daughter while he is gone on a business trip. I will get to pick her up from school and review her homework. I'm looking forward to it. For an evening activity I am going to teach her how to cook. I have decided that crock pot cooking is the most-likely-to-be-used method for their household. This evening we are going to learn how to plan meals and then go grocery shopping for the rest of the week.
On Saturday I continued the huge project of cataloging and organizing our DVD library. I was able to clear-out a section of our VHS collection to make room for the DVDs. Dad is working on burning the best of the VHS collection to DVD before the VHS tapes totally disintegrate.
At YRs on Saturday evening we watched the next section from "Commanding Heights," which was fascinating. We also discussed all of the initiatives and ballot measures on the November ballot. There were a couple that I had not heard about before.
Yesterday I went back to the doctor to get the results from my blood tests. I am happy to report that I am now certifiably healthy. The test results were absolutely normal and healthy. My good cholesterol was a bit high and my bad cholesterol was on the low side. The doctor was very pleased. I also discovered that I have a bit of athlete's foot. So the battle has been engaged.
Last night I managed to get home before 9:00 p.m. for the first time in almost two weeks and was able to get a limited amount of work done. However, I did not make any more progress on the piano. I was way too busy trying to get some essential stuff done like laundry, cleaning, and installing the new mini-blind in the study. I also disinfected the insides of all of my shoes as the doctor recommended.
This morning I got up early so I could be at work early for our annual business park owners association meeting. I typed-up the minutes and distributed an updated business park directory before noon. The meeting went well, and my duties as secretary are pretty much over again until next fall.
This evening I begin staying with a co-worker's 13-year-old daughter while he is gone on a business trip. I will get to pick her up from school and review her homework. I'm looking forward to it. For an evening activity I am going to teach her how to cook. I have decided that crock pot cooking is the most-likely-to-be-used method for their household. This evening we are going to learn how to plan meals and then go grocery shopping for the rest of the week.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Evenings Out
After enjoying an unusually long run of being home most evenings, I have hit a run of "evenings out." There are advantages to both of course, although I somewhat prefer to have them mixed together a bit more.
The good news is that the rain prevents me from doing the type of yard work that has occupied my evenings during the last month. Of course, one reason why the yard work was so urgent was because we knew the rain was coming.
The bad news is that I am not getting my inside projects done. This includes working on the piano which is in pieces, putting-up garden produce, and various and sundry chores. I have managed to squeeze in 15 minutes on the piano project a couple of mornings before I went to work, but now I'm to the "putting the keys back in place" step, which includes cleaning them up as I go. It will take quite a few 15 minute periods to do this if I can't work in longer time frames.
The good news is that I have the opportunity to visit with friends. Monday night was nothing momentous, just a board meeting. Tuesday night I went for a delightful tea at the home of a beloved friend. She taught the Bible study I attended last fall/winter/spring, and we enjoyed a couple hours of sweet fellowship and getting caught-up on stuff.
Last night I taught Bible study time for an Awana group. They are studying the book of Romans this year, and I was the "kick-off" guest speaker. Do you have any idea how many topics there are in Romans?!? It took me a lot of study and praying to select just one. In the end I selected "Romans: A Book of Truth" and talked about how important it is to learn truth and avoid listening to lies. As a bonus, there were several friends who are Awana leaders at the church, and I took advantage of my trip to briefly catch-up with them after Awana was over.
Tonight I go out to dinner with a new co-worker who wants to get better acquainted. She moved-up from California a couple of months ago, and I'm looking forward to the opportunity to get to know her better.
The good news is that the rain prevents me from doing the type of yard work that has occupied my evenings during the last month. Of course, one reason why the yard work was so urgent was because we knew the rain was coming.
The bad news is that I am not getting my inside projects done. This includes working on the piano which is in pieces, putting-up garden produce, and various and sundry chores. I have managed to squeeze in 15 minutes on the piano project a couple of mornings before I went to work, but now I'm to the "putting the keys back in place" step, which includes cleaning them up as I go. It will take quite a few 15 minute periods to do this if I can't work in longer time frames.
The good news is that I have the opportunity to visit with friends. Monday night was nothing momentous, just a board meeting. Tuesday night I went for a delightful tea at the home of a beloved friend. She taught the Bible study I attended last fall/winter/spring, and we enjoyed a couple hours of sweet fellowship and getting caught-up on stuff.
Last night I taught Bible study time for an Awana group. They are studying the book of Romans this year, and I was the "kick-off" guest speaker. Do you have any idea how many topics there are in Romans?!? It took me a lot of study and praying to select just one. In the end I selected "Romans: A Book of Truth" and talked about how important it is to learn truth and avoid listening to lies. As a bonus, there were several friends who are Awana leaders at the church, and I took advantage of my trip to briefly catch-up with them after Awana was over.
Tonight I go out to dinner with a new co-worker who wants to get better acquainted. She moved-up from California a couple of months ago, and I'm looking forward to the opportunity to get to know her better.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Physical Exams
Well yesterday I finally did it. I got a basic physical exam. Since this was the first time since I was young that I have gone to the doctor when I wasn't sick (and I have rarely been sick enough to go to the doctor), it was quite an occasion for me.
I chose to go to a ND (Naturopathic Doctor) instead of a standard MD. After asking around I found one that came recommended as looking at the "whole" picture nutritionally, etc. instead of standard doctor fare. I also had to be careful to avoid one that was into "new age" stuff.
So far I am very pleased with the doctor I found. She explained things carefully, didn't suggest any unnecessary tests, and agreed with my assessment that I am very healthy. She had a few suggestions for adding supplements to my diet as I get older, but that was about it.
This morning I gave blood so they can do blood work on me. I'll find out my results next week.
I chose to go to a ND (Naturopathic Doctor) instead of a standard MD. After asking around I found one that came recommended as looking at the "whole" picture nutritionally, etc. instead of standard doctor fare. I also had to be careful to avoid one that was into "new age" stuff.
So far I am very pleased with the doctor I found. She explained things carefully, didn't suggest any unnecessary tests, and agreed with my assessment that I am very healthy. She had a few suggestions for adding supplements to my diet as I get older, but that was about it.
This morning I gave blood so they can do blood work on me. I'll find out my results next week.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Piano Pictures
Here is what my piano looks like right now. This was at the beginning of the evening. By the end of the evening I had removed over 50 years worth of dust (and various other items) from the inside.You can see the straw that I taped to my hand-held vacuum to get into the tight spots.
The ziplock bags on top hold the pads and paper spacers for the center key pads. The piano guy gave me 4 (four!) different thicknesses of paper spaces so I can get the keys to be all the exact same height. As was explained to me, this is necessary because the felt pads are made out of an "organic" material. To be plain, it is impossible to get them all exactly the same thickness, so the paper spacers are to even things out. Before I put in the felt pads though, he suggested that I iron them!
So yesterday evening was interesting. First I mowed the back section of lawn (and it's a good thing too because it started raining after it got dark). Then I ironed 100 tiny round felt pads (they are about the size of hole punch protectors). After that I worked on removing over 50 years worth of dust and other accumulated stuff from the inside of the piano. At some point in the past the piano must have been kept near someone's Christmas tree...because there were a bunch of pine needles in there. And kids must have used it because I found little stickers in with the dust.
The next time I have time, I will begin putting those little pads into place, putting the keys on them, and then begin the exacting task of adding paper spaces to make them line-up just right.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Piano Keys on the Floor
Did you know that a piano can be taken apart with nothing more than a straight-slot screwdriver? Or at least it can be taken apart as far as I want to go with one.
Last night I began the process of replacing the center key pads on my piano. I put a sheet on the floor (because the inside of the piano is dusty) and began taking screws out of the piano.
I removed the several long parts that go over the keys before I finally got to the exciting part. I was warned to be sure to number they keys so they don't get mixed up. Otherwise I would face a giant puzzle. Happily when I got all the boards off the top I discovered that the numbers had already been stamped into the wood.
Now all the keys are lined up on a sheet in the living room. It looks weird to see them lying there. They seem so much longer, because they are actually more than twice as long as what you generally see. That also makes it seem like there are not as many of them there.
Then I began taking off the old and decaying center pads. Some of them fell apart in my fingers. I also got out my cordless hand vacuum cleaner. Boy was there a lot of dust and lint under those keys. I rigged the vacuum cleaner up with a straw so I could get into the tight sections. It worked very well.
Now I just need to find replacement pads, get them installed, and put the whole thing back together!
Last night I began the process of replacing the center key pads on my piano. I put a sheet on the floor (because the inside of the piano is dusty) and began taking screws out of the piano.
I removed the several long parts that go over the keys before I finally got to the exciting part. I was warned to be sure to number they keys so they don't get mixed up. Otherwise I would face a giant puzzle. Happily when I got all the boards off the top I discovered that the numbers had already been stamped into the wood.
Now all the keys are lined up on a sheet in the living room. It looks weird to see them lying there. They seem so much longer, because they are actually more than twice as long as what you generally see. That also makes it seem like there are not as many of them there.
Then I began taking off the old and decaying center pads. Some of them fell apart in my fingers. I also got out my cordless hand vacuum cleaner. Boy was there a lot of dust and lint under those keys. I rigged the vacuum cleaner up with a straw so I could get into the tight sections. It worked very well.
Now I just need to find replacement pads, get them installed, and put the whole thing back together!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Nothing
I can't think of anything to say, so I'm not going to say anything. Except that I'm saying something to say I'm going to say nothing. It's a no-win situation. :-)
Monday, September 24, 2007
My Problem
Last night we heard a very interesting speaker and I feel like I have identified one of my problems...I'm addicted to dopamine.
What you may ask? Well it goes like this...
1. Dopamine is released naturally whenever you experience anything pleasant.
2. I'm a very cheerful person and find almost everything pleasant. Therefore I smile a lot, which releases dopamine.
3. Hence I conclude that I must be cheerful in order to get my regular dose of dopamine to which I am addicted.
There...how's that for logic? No need for external substances to give me my fix, I can just smile and that will do the job nicely.
Humm...I wonder if that would be a drug treatment method? Make the recovering addicts smile and laugh a lot.
What you may ask? Well it goes like this...
1. Dopamine is released naturally whenever you experience anything pleasant.
2. I'm a very cheerful person and find almost everything pleasant. Therefore I smile a lot, which releases dopamine.
3. Hence I conclude that I must be cheerful in order to get my regular dose of dopamine to which I am addicted.
There...how's that for logic? No need for external substances to give me my fix, I can just smile and that will do the job nicely.
Humm...I wonder if that would be a drug treatment method? Make the recovering addicts smile and laugh a lot.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Gratefulness
As if to make-up for the progress I made the previous two nights, last night I spent my entire practice on one measure of music. Runs tend to give me more problems than lots of notes at once. Ask my fingers to hit 8-10 notes at a time and they will happily do their job. It helps that I have a fairly large hand-span. But ask my fingers to play one note at a time, very fast, and I run into trouble (no pun intended). Ah well...I'll just keep practicing. I almost had it up-to-speed by the end of the evening.
On another subject, I recently read a very interesting article in Reader's Digest about the benefits of gratefulness. It should not surprise Christians to hear that the benefits are wide-ranging. They have now *proven* (scientifically) that being grateful leads to:
On another subject, I recently read a very interesting article in Reader's Digest about the benefits of gratefulness. It should not surprise Christians to hear that the benefits are wide-ranging. They have now *proven* (scientifically) that being grateful leads to:
- Improved outlook on life/reduces depression
- Better health (fewer colds, etc.)
- Better sleep
- Improved thinking skills (doctors who were given a small box of candy as a "thank you" diagnosed conditions faster and with greater success than those who were not)
- Better relationships (surprise - people prefer being around people who are grateful)
- Larger tips (for waitresses)
- Better grades in school
And the list goes on...you get the idea. I'm sure these are some of the many reasons why we are told to be thankful so many times in the Bible. The study also found that being grateful and saying thank you for things had a "multiplying" effect on those around the person being grateful. In other words, it is contagious!
So when you're feeling down, just start listing all the things you are grateful for and it will cheer you up (among other things).
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Memorizing Music
While I await for the new piece of music I plan to tackle to arrive, I plan to re-learn and polish-up some old favorite piano pieces. This will help me remember my lessons as well as give me a shorter timeline for having a special ready for church.
So this week I picked-up "The Lord's Prayer" and began practicing. One of the lessons my piano teacher tried to impress upon me was the importance of achieving a certain level of competence with each section before moving on to the next one. In the past I always chaffed at the suggestion and found myself wanting to plow through a piece without stopping.
Now I find myself quite willing to play the same four measures over and over dozens of times until my fingers have learned the proper way to go. The added benefit of this is that I find I am quickly memorizing the music, something that I did not actually set out to do at first. I have already memorized the first page of music in two evenings of practice. Of course it is the easiest page, but still, it is noticeable progress.
So this week I picked-up "The Lord's Prayer" and began practicing. One of the lessons my piano teacher tried to impress upon me was the importance of achieving a certain level of competence with each section before moving on to the next one. In the past I always chaffed at the suggestion and found myself wanting to plow through a piece without stopping.
Now I find myself quite willing to play the same four measures over and over dozens of times until my fingers have learned the proper way to go. The added benefit of this is that I find I am quickly memorizing the music, something that I did not actually set out to do at first. I have already memorized the first page of music in two evenings of practice. Of course it is the easiest page, but still, it is noticeable progress.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Pianos
Several months ago I noticed that one of the keys on my piano was sagging and not playing properly. With appropriate curiosity and enthusiasm, I took the piano apart far enough to establish that this was caused by the deterioration of a pad in the middle of the key. Then I contacted a piano guy in the area and asked him about replacing the felt pads. The cost of the pads wasn't too bad, but having them replaced was another matter! The unofficial estimate was more than I paid when I purchased the piano! Fixing the piano moved to the back burner to wait until the end of my busy summer.
My new enthusiasm for piano practice has moved fixing the piano to the front burner, so I began investigating more economical solutions to my problem.
Over the weekend I discussed the state of my piano with a friend who is also a piano guy. We established the fact that the piano is worth fixing up a bit, but not as much as the other piano guy was suggesting. He carefully described the process for replacing the felt pads and I felt that it was within my skill level.
Based on additional information needed, I again took apart part of the piano last night to determine how many of those felt pads needed to be replaced. The possibility was presented that at some point in time moths had inflicted the damage that caused them to fall apart. Sure enough, moth holes are clearly visible on many of the felt pads across the middle...although the front ones (a different type of felt) seem to be untouched.
So with a better understanding of the scope of the project, I now plan to replace all those little felt pads in the middle on my own. However, I will have a piano tuner come in when I am done to take care-of that problem. Then I should be in good shape for lots of piano practicing! (Or at least my piano will be.)
My new enthusiasm for piano practice has moved fixing the piano to the front burner, so I began investigating more economical solutions to my problem.
Over the weekend I discussed the state of my piano with a friend who is also a piano guy. We established the fact that the piano is worth fixing up a bit, but not as much as the other piano guy was suggesting. He carefully described the process for replacing the felt pads and I felt that it was within my skill level.
Based on additional information needed, I again took apart part of the piano last night to determine how many of those felt pads needed to be replaced. The possibility was presented that at some point in time moths had inflicted the damage that caused them to fall apart. Sure enough, moth holes are clearly visible on many of the felt pads across the middle...although the front ones (a different type of felt) seem to be untouched.
So with a better understanding of the scope of the project, I now plan to replace all those little felt pads in the middle on my own. However, I will have a piano tuner come in when I am done to take care-of that problem. Then I should be in good shape for lots of piano practicing! (Or at least my piano will be.)
Monday, September 17, 2007
Drawer Fronts & Strangers Sleeping at the Kitchen Table
Friday evening I went with my sister to see a performance by "Communicators for Christ." The theme was "One Life: Whose Legacy." It was put on by a group of 13 teenagers who are learning to communicate better with those around them. In addition to the evening's performance, they were holding a 4-day conference for area teenagers. I thought it was very well done.
When my sister and I arrived home I went upstairs to greet my Mom. Much to my surprise I saw a stranger sleeping at our kitchen table. She was a Chinese exchange student and it looked like she had fallen asleep while studying. I reported the situation to Mom and she told me that her host family was gone for the weekend and she would be staying with us.
My sister and I woke the young lady up and assured her that she could use her bed for sleeping. She was quite astonished to wake-up and find two 6' tall blond girls standing next to her! We got everything arranged and we all went off to bed.
On Saturday my Dad had to work in the morning, so I began our weekend project without him. Mom had finished varnishing the kitchen cupboard drawer fronts and I began preparing to install them. First I cleared off a large space on the living room floor and laid out all the drawer fronts. I then decided which way they should be turned and which one should go where. Sometimes there were several options; sometimes only two.
Since installing the drawer fronts involves putting an electric screwdriver inside the drawer, I had to empty them out. It was quite interesting to see the contents of all our kitchen drawers spread out on the counters!
Then I marked the fronts of the drawer boxes in thirds and drilled two holes in each. This was followed by attaching two small pieces of double-sided tape to the fronts.
As I finished this job my Dad got home from work...just in time! After lunch and a short break, we began attaching drawer fronts. When we were done it looked very impressive!
And last but not least, I put everything back in the drawers. Of course, there was no way I could pass up this opportunity to organize all the stuff in the drawers! What fun!
I'll try to get pictures of our kitchen cabinets to post sometime...now that we have fronts on them they look very nice.
When my sister and I arrived home I went upstairs to greet my Mom. Much to my surprise I saw a stranger sleeping at our kitchen table. She was a Chinese exchange student and it looked like she had fallen asleep while studying. I reported the situation to Mom and she told me that her host family was gone for the weekend and she would be staying with us.
My sister and I woke the young lady up and assured her that she could use her bed for sleeping. She was quite astonished to wake-up and find two 6' tall blond girls standing next to her! We got everything arranged and we all went off to bed.
On Saturday my Dad had to work in the morning, so I began our weekend project without him. Mom had finished varnishing the kitchen cupboard drawer fronts and I began preparing to install them. First I cleared off a large space on the living room floor and laid out all the drawer fronts. I then decided which way they should be turned and which one should go where. Sometimes there were several options; sometimes only two.
Since installing the drawer fronts involves putting an electric screwdriver inside the drawer, I had to empty them out. It was quite interesting to see the contents of all our kitchen drawers spread out on the counters!
Then I marked the fronts of the drawer boxes in thirds and drilled two holes in each. This was followed by attaching two small pieces of double-sided tape to the fronts.
As I finished this job my Dad got home from work...just in time! After lunch and a short break, we began attaching drawer fronts. When we were done it looked very impressive!
And last but not least, I put everything back in the drawers. Of course, there was no way I could pass up this opportunity to organize all the stuff in the drawers! What fun!
I'll try to get pictures of our kitchen cabinets to post sometime...now that we have fronts on them they look very nice.
Friday, September 14, 2007
I Beat the Sun
Yes I did! I got my lawn project done yesterday evening before the sun disappeared beyond the horizon. This is partly due to the fact that I started earlier, partly because preparations were already done, and partly because the job didn't take as long.
I also practiced the piano some more. This time I dug out my old piano book from piano lesson days and started playing through the pieces I had mastered at some time in the distant past...over 10 years to be more precise. I was pleased that my fingers did a decent job of remembering their lessons. While I would hardly call my playing eloquent, at least I could keep a slow-but-steady pace up while sight-reading the notes. (A far cry from the "have-to-figure-out-every-note-on-the-page" pace I would adopt when seeing a new music piece previously.)
When, I wonder, did my piano playing improve so much in the last 10 years? I think it must have come from the experience of playing hymns at church all the time. While playing 5+ hymns a week doesn't seem like very much practice on the surface, multiply that by 10 years at 52 weeks a year and it starts to add up!
It has encouraged me to practice more at home...and I'm even daring to begin learning a new, substantial piece of music on my own. I would like to find another piano teacher, but the one I'm most interested in doesn't teach after working hours. Not that I blame him for that!
I am also going to have to get my home piano fixed. It has some keys that don't work properly and really does need to be tuned!
I also practiced the piano some more. This time I dug out my old piano book from piano lesson days and started playing through the pieces I had mastered at some time in the distant past...over 10 years to be more precise. I was pleased that my fingers did a decent job of remembering their lessons. While I would hardly call my playing eloquent, at least I could keep a slow-but-steady pace up while sight-reading the notes. (A far cry from the "have-to-figure-out-every-note-on-the-page" pace I would adopt when seeing a new music piece previously.)
When, I wonder, did my piano playing improve so much in the last 10 years? I think it must have come from the experience of playing hymns at church all the time. While playing 5+ hymns a week doesn't seem like very much practice on the surface, multiply that by 10 years at 52 weeks a year and it starts to add up!
It has encouraged me to practice more at home...and I'm even daring to begin learning a new, substantial piece of music on my own. I would like to find another piano teacher, but the one I'm most interested in doesn't teach after working hours. Not that I blame him for that!
I am also going to have to get my home piano fixed. It has some keys that don't work properly and really does need to be tuned!
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Evening Activities & Sick Friends
My task last night was to apply lawn fertilizer to all the lawns. The directions called for applying it to a wet lawn with no rain expected for the following 24 hours. In addition, the spreader must be used both directions on the lawn to prevent "stripes" from appearing. (Our rule, not theirs.)
Most of our lawn is watered by an automatic sprinkler system. The large front lawn is actually a "shared" lawn with our very friendly neighbors. Hence I needed to manually activate our neighbor's automatic sprinkler system (in addition to our own) in order to get the grass wet. Our system has a few zones, all currently assigned to the lawn. Our neighbor's system has 12 zones! I was not sure how many or which ones were assigned to the lawn.
After a little experimentation (our neighbors were not home) I discovered that there were three zones to be activated...but that they could only be turned on one at a time (to prevent the water pressure from being too low for any single zone). All very fascinating.
Finally the grass was wet. I prepared the spreader...using half of the recommended setting since I was going to cover the lawn twice...making passes each direction...and began the job.
My first observation was that it seems to me spreaders should spread behind you instead of in front of you. I realize this isn't really practical in one sense, but it would mean your shoes didn't get covered by whatever you are spreading. Next I noticed the pattern the spreader uses and tried to keep my "passes" on the lawn even and straight.
It is a good thing that I carefully observed how it all worked because guess what?! Yep, it got dark before I was done. So I finished in the dark. It was just light enough for me to see where I had been on my previous pass, so I'm pretty sure it was a nice even job.
Last night my housemate went to bed early. This morning she was feeling sick. That feeling developed into actually being sick. When I got to work I discovered that another co-worker called-in sick. Still another co-worker who is gone on vacation got sick (as did his wife...she reported it on her blog from their vacation location). And a former co-worker (who the above two co-workers still visit with regularly) has also been sick. Ugg. I'm taking my Airborne!
Most of our lawn is watered by an automatic sprinkler system. The large front lawn is actually a "shared" lawn with our very friendly neighbors. Hence I needed to manually activate our neighbor's automatic sprinkler system (in addition to our own) in order to get the grass wet. Our system has a few zones, all currently assigned to the lawn. Our neighbor's system has 12 zones! I was not sure how many or which ones were assigned to the lawn.
After a little experimentation (our neighbors were not home) I discovered that there were three zones to be activated...but that they could only be turned on one at a time (to prevent the water pressure from being too low for any single zone). All very fascinating.
Finally the grass was wet. I prepared the spreader...using half of the recommended setting since I was going to cover the lawn twice...making passes each direction...and began the job.
My first observation was that it seems to me spreaders should spread behind you instead of in front of you. I realize this isn't really practical in one sense, but it would mean your shoes didn't get covered by whatever you are spreading. Next I noticed the pattern the spreader uses and tried to keep my "passes" on the lawn even and straight.
It is a good thing that I carefully observed how it all worked because guess what?! Yep, it got dark before I was done. So I finished in the dark. It was just light enough for me to see where I had been on my previous pass, so I'm pretty sure it was a nice even job.
Last night my housemate went to bed early. This morning she was feeling sick. That feeling developed into actually being sick. When I got to work I discovered that another co-worker called-in sick. Still another co-worker who is gone on vacation got sick (as did his wife...she reported it on her blog from their vacation location). And a former co-worker (who the above two co-workers still visit with regularly) has also been sick. Ugg. I'm taking my Airborne!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Mowing in the Dark
Just about every time I mow the lawn I think of a book I read when I was a child. It was about a sheep that was responsible for mowing the lawn around the town hall/park. He would make designs in the lawn with his eating of the grass for special occasions. i.e. A heart for Valentine's Day, etc.
Then one day they purchased a lawn mower and the poor sheep was out of a job. But the lawn mower cut all the grass the same every time; there were no more designs. The book ended happily with the townspeople protesting that they liked the old way better and the sheep got his job back.
Now I realize that this book totally ignored reality. Not only would a sheep not make designs, but it would leave other unsanitary evidences of its presence. Nevertheless, it was a cute story that left me with a fascination for making designs in lawns.
Thus it is that when I mow the lawn, I am very conscious of the design I am creating. No matter how carefully you mow with modern machinery, a subtle difference in the length of grass is apparent. This allows you to see which direction the mower was running the last time the lawn was mowed (unless it has been a very long time since it was mowed).
Last night when I mowed the lawn I was very careful to create a new pattern in the lawn; one that was different from when I mowed last week. I have convinced myself that this is also healthier for the lawn (not to be mowed exactly the same each time). It also helps keep me mentally occupied while mowing.
Another thing that happened last night was that it got dark early. Earlier than the week before that is. Which meant I had less time to mow the lawn. Which meant that I ended up finishing the lawn in the dark. (It looks fine in the daylight.) I used the 180 degree, walk-back-the-way-you-just-came method of mowing, which is very useful for low-light situations. I had also walked the lawns earlier to eliminate any hazards for the mowing machine.
The other thing I did last night was resume my piano practicing. It is hard to get practice in when your housemate goes to bed 1 hour earlier than you do (and gets up earlier), and you usually stay outside until it's dark. That's just about bedtime in the summer.
My sister and I have decided to tackle a new musical piece (I play the piano and she sings). We do so from time-to-time. It usually takes me 1-2 years to prepare, so I figured I'd better get going. We're also going to brush-up on some of our old specials so we have something to share at church in the meantime. Now if only I can find where that old music is now...
Then one day they purchased a lawn mower and the poor sheep was out of a job. But the lawn mower cut all the grass the same every time; there were no more designs. The book ended happily with the townspeople protesting that they liked the old way better and the sheep got his job back.
Now I realize that this book totally ignored reality. Not only would a sheep not make designs, but it would leave other unsanitary evidences of its presence. Nevertheless, it was a cute story that left me with a fascination for making designs in lawns.
Thus it is that when I mow the lawn, I am very conscious of the design I am creating. No matter how carefully you mow with modern machinery, a subtle difference in the length of grass is apparent. This allows you to see which direction the mower was running the last time the lawn was mowed (unless it has been a very long time since it was mowed).
Last night when I mowed the lawn I was very careful to create a new pattern in the lawn; one that was different from when I mowed last week. I have convinced myself that this is also healthier for the lawn (not to be mowed exactly the same each time). It also helps keep me mentally occupied while mowing.
Another thing that happened last night was that it got dark early. Earlier than the week before that is. Which meant I had less time to mow the lawn. Which meant that I ended up finishing the lawn in the dark. (It looks fine in the daylight.) I used the 180 degree, walk-back-the-way-you-just-came method of mowing, which is very useful for low-light situations. I had also walked the lawns earlier to eliminate any hazards for the mowing machine.
The other thing I did last night was resume my piano practicing. It is hard to get practice in when your housemate goes to bed 1 hour earlier than you do (and gets up earlier), and you usually stay outside until it's dark. That's just about bedtime in the summer.
My sister and I have decided to tackle a new musical piece (I play the piano and she sings). We do so from time-to-time. It usually takes me 1-2 years to prepare, so I figured I'd better get going. We're also going to brush-up on some of our old specials so we have something to share at church in the meantime. Now if only I can find where that old music is now...
Monday, September 10, 2007
Obituary for Louise
On Saturday I attended the Memorial Service for Louise. The number of attendees and variety of ages present gave testament to a life of service to all God brought into her life. She will be missed, but is in a better place. We will meet again on that beautiful shore.
Louise T. Moore
Hero of the Faith, Volunteer of the Last Half-Century
September 1914 -- August 2007
Louise was born in Cushing, Oklahoma as Louise Estelle Tucker to Ida May and Edwin A. Tucker, the fifth of six children: Earl Landsberger, Charles Landsberger, Sylvia May, Bernice, Louise, and Edwin.
In Perry, Oklahoma in June of 1939, Louise married Harold Moore of Blackwell, Oklahoma. First residing in Blackwell, they later doodle-bugged their way around the oil-rich Plains States. Eventually, they planted their roots in Enid, Oklahoma to care for Harold's father. After a time, they journeyed to Arkansas, owning and operating a chicken farm. Restless, they hit the road again, stopping in Seattle, where they both worked for Boeing. Alas, the wind blew once more, and, selling all their earthly possessions, the couple traveled America's coastlines, beach combing and beach bumming all the way.
Finally, they planted permanent roots in Olympia circa 1962. Louise began volunteer work, as well as employment with the State of Washington as Harold's health began to decline. He died in 1973. Louise continued to work as an accountant for the General Services Administration until retirement. Her favorite saying was, "Old accountants never die. They just run out of tape."
At this juncture, Louise increased her generosity to her community. She became a decades-long member of the First Assembly of God on Plum Street, which eventually became the Evergreen Christian Center. As an active member, she led many Bible studies and was the greeter on the children's Sunday school bus. Louise also dedicated many years of service to the mission of the Crisis Pregnancy Center of Thurston County.
In 1989, she became one of the founding members of the Bob Williams for Governor campaign -- her entry into grassroots American politics. In 1991, she lent her direct mail coordinating efforts to the Williams for Congress campaign in Washington State's Third District. Next, as the Direct Mail Coordinator for "Washington '92", Louise found herself deeply involved in the defeat of Booth Gardner's Children's Initiative, which she felt was "anti-family", and the passage of Linda Smith's Rainy Day Fund mandate on State Legislative spending. Louise was tireless in her efforts and meticulous in detail. Somewhere in the midst of this groundswell of activity, she added the Christian Coalition to her list of direct mail and volunteer activities.
In 1991, Louise began as one of the founding volunteers of the Evergreen Freedom Foundation, a non-profit public policy organization, and served there for 13 years. "These," she recalled, "were among the days and friends I cherished most." In 1995, Louise was the Direct Mail Coordinator for the effort to repeal Washington State's affirmative action laws, which she felt were "State-mandated discrimination via quotas", as well as the campaign to bring education vouchers to Washington State families, the Taber for Superintendent of Public Instruction campaign.
Her campaign and public-policy volunteer activities continued until May of 2004, when Louise decided it was time to slow down. She moved to Aberdeen, Washington as adopted family to one of the first children she had greeted on that Sunday school bus 32 years earlier. Louise still stuffed an occasional envelope, but mostly complained about the volume of political direct mail she received from the Democrats.
A little-known detail about Louise is that she had a robust and lengthy fling with belly dancing in the 1970s. She loved the natural beauty of the United States of America. She was an avid reader, unceasingly witty, a spring of generosity to many, and a faithful, gracious Christian woman. There is so much about her that is unsaid in this little space. What a woman! She is the one of whom friends and family say, "Thank you, Louise, for giving to the Lord. Mine is a life that was changed." She said repeatedly that she was satisfied with her life. In the family home, she recently passed away peacefully of old age.
She is survived by her nieces and nephews, Steve Daniels, of Taos, New Mexico, Judy Beals, of Sun City, Arizona, John Beals, of Canastota, New York, Mathew Beals, of Scottsdale, Arizona, Barbara Kaufman, of Holden, Missouri, Erlene Cusick, of Oklahoma, Susan Tucker, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Sylvia Vargas, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and her adopted Aberdeen family of John and Candis Wright and their children, Courtney, John, Noble, and Kaitlin. Louise, though we'll never meet again this side of Heaven, we will see you... on that Beautiful Shore!
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 8, 2007, at 1:00 p.m. at the Rupp Hall at the Evergreen Christian Center, 1000 Black Lake Boulevard, Olympia.
Louise T. Moore
Hero of the Faith, Volunteer of the Last Half-Century
September 1914 -- August 2007
Louise was born in Cushing, Oklahoma as Louise Estelle Tucker to Ida May and Edwin A. Tucker, the fifth of six children: Earl Landsberger, Charles Landsberger, Sylvia May, Bernice, Louise, and Edwin.
In Perry, Oklahoma in June of 1939, Louise married Harold Moore of Blackwell, Oklahoma. First residing in Blackwell, they later doodle-bugged their way around the oil-rich Plains States. Eventually, they planted their roots in Enid, Oklahoma to care for Harold's father. After a time, they journeyed to Arkansas, owning and operating a chicken farm. Restless, they hit the road again, stopping in Seattle, where they both worked for Boeing. Alas, the wind blew once more, and, selling all their earthly possessions, the couple traveled America's coastlines, beach combing and beach bumming all the way.
Finally, they planted permanent roots in Olympia circa 1962. Louise began volunteer work, as well as employment with the State of Washington as Harold's health began to decline. He died in 1973. Louise continued to work as an accountant for the General Services Administration until retirement. Her favorite saying was, "Old accountants never die. They just run out of tape."
At this juncture, Louise increased her generosity to her community. She became a decades-long member of the First Assembly of God on Plum Street, which eventually became the Evergreen Christian Center. As an active member, she led many Bible studies and was the greeter on the children's Sunday school bus. Louise also dedicated many years of service to the mission of the Crisis Pregnancy Center of Thurston County.
In 1989, she became one of the founding members of the Bob Williams for Governor campaign -- her entry into grassroots American politics. In 1991, she lent her direct mail coordinating efforts to the Williams for Congress campaign in Washington State's Third District. Next, as the Direct Mail Coordinator for "Washington '92", Louise found herself deeply involved in the defeat of Booth Gardner's Children's Initiative, which she felt was "anti-family", and the passage of Linda Smith's Rainy Day Fund mandate on State Legislative spending. Louise was tireless in her efforts and meticulous in detail. Somewhere in the midst of this groundswell of activity, she added the Christian Coalition to her list of direct mail and volunteer activities.
In 1991, Louise began as one of the founding volunteers of the Evergreen Freedom Foundation, a non-profit public policy organization, and served there for 13 years. "These," she recalled, "were among the days and friends I cherished most." In 1995, Louise was the Direct Mail Coordinator for the effort to repeal Washington State's affirmative action laws, which she felt were "State-mandated discrimination via quotas", as well as the campaign to bring education vouchers to Washington State families, the Taber for Superintendent of Public Instruction campaign.
Her campaign and public-policy volunteer activities continued until May of 2004, when Louise decided it was time to slow down. She moved to Aberdeen, Washington as adopted family to one of the first children she had greeted on that Sunday school bus 32 years earlier. Louise still stuffed an occasional envelope, but mostly complained about the volume of political direct mail she received from the Democrats.
A little-known detail about Louise is that she had a robust and lengthy fling with belly dancing in the 1970s. She loved the natural beauty of the United States of America. She was an avid reader, unceasingly witty, a spring of generosity to many, and a faithful, gracious Christian woman. There is so much about her that is unsaid in this little space. What a woman! She is the one of whom friends and family say, "Thank you, Louise, for giving to the Lord. Mine is a life that was changed." She said repeatedly that she was satisfied with her life. In the family home, she recently passed away peacefully of old age.
She is survived by her nieces and nephews, Steve Daniels, of Taos, New Mexico, Judy Beals, of Sun City, Arizona, John Beals, of Canastota, New York, Mathew Beals, of Scottsdale, Arizona, Barbara Kaufman, of Holden, Missouri, Erlene Cusick, of Oklahoma, Susan Tucker, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Sylvia Vargas, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and her adopted Aberdeen family of John and Candis Wright and their children, Courtney, John, Noble, and Kaitlin. Louise, though we'll never meet again this side of Heaven, we will see you... on that Beautiful Shore!
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 8, 2007, at 1:00 p.m. at the Rupp Hall at the Evergreen Christian Center, 1000 Black Lake Boulevard, Olympia.
Friday, September 07, 2007
Random Observations (from the last 24 hours)
-When you buy a powered video splitting box, you need an additional video cable.
-Leftover banana-nut pancakes are the ideal meal-on-the-go.
-It takes less time to mow the lawn if the grass is shorter (because you don't have to stop and empty the bag as often).
-It takes 1.5 hours to prepare and bake one batch of chocolate chip cookies (with clean-up while they are baking). It would go faster if I had larger cookie sheets.
-It is getting darker earlier and lighter later (at a rapid pace).
-Looking through old photos brings laughter and tears.
-It is possible to almost forget an old co-worker's name.
-Headaches can cause someone to throw-up. (Not that I know that from personal experience.)
-Head massages help headaches.
-The number of people who don't eat chocolate chip cookies (for diet purposes) is astonishing!
-Leftover banana-nut pancakes are the ideal meal-on-the-go.
-It takes less time to mow the lawn if the grass is shorter (because you don't have to stop and empty the bag as often).
-It takes 1.5 hours to prepare and bake one batch of chocolate chip cookies (with clean-up while they are baking). It would go faster if I had larger cookie sheets.
-It is getting darker earlier and lighter later (at a rapid pace).
-Looking through old photos brings laughter and tears.
-It is possible to almost forget an old co-worker's name.
-Headaches can cause someone to throw-up. (Not that I know that from personal experience.)
-Head massages help headaches.
-The number of people who don't eat chocolate chip cookies (for diet purposes) is astonishing!
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Technology
Technology is a big part of my life. Without it my job, not to mention the jobs of millions of other people, would be totally different (if not impossible). I am very fond of technology, especially when it works.
There are times when I wonder what a piece of technology is "thinking." Take today's example. I received a KVM switch I had ordered. (That's a keyboard-video-mouse device that lets you use the same keyboard, monitor, and mouse for two different computers by switching between them.) The packaging proclaimed the ease of use for the device. Maybe for idea conditions yes...
I plugged everything in. I turned on one of the computers. No keyboard or mouse control. I fiddled with the cords to make sure all the connections worked. No good. I tried hitting the caps lock on the keyboard (the most basic thing I could think of). No good. I restarted the computer. Nothing but video again.
Thus commenced 15 minutes of fiddling which only someone with true dedication would attempt. I used standard troubleshooting techniques...unplug all but one "part" at a time and see if it will work. Check each connection. Repeat.
So, what was the result you may wonder. Well I got it all working perfectly after I:
1) Plugged the keyboard directly into one computer, restarted, verified the keyboard worked, then switched the cord from the computer to the KVM switch.
2) Switched mice (from a USB mouse to a PS2 mouse).
3) Repeat step #1 with the mouse.
After I got computer #1 working I turned on computer #2 and it worked fine. The switch works like advertised. Excellent!
Except I can't help but wonder what on earth everything was thinking to begin with! The components are hooked up exactly the same (with the exception of switching the mouse) as they were the first time when nothing worked. Even if the mouse didn't work, the keyboard should have. Very weird.
Another thing...video cable splitters (the cable kind) don't work very well (unless you are not bothered by double-vision on your monitor). You really DO need a powered video splitting device.
There are times when I wonder what a piece of technology is "thinking." Take today's example. I received a KVM switch I had ordered. (That's a keyboard-video-mouse device that lets you use the same keyboard, monitor, and mouse for two different computers by switching between them.) The packaging proclaimed the ease of use for the device. Maybe for idea conditions yes...
I plugged everything in. I turned on one of the computers. No keyboard or mouse control. I fiddled with the cords to make sure all the connections worked. No good. I tried hitting the caps lock on the keyboard (the most basic thing I could think of). No good. I restarted the computer. Nothing but video again.
Thus commenced 15 minutes of fiddling which only someone with true dedication would attempt. I used standard troubleshooting techniques...unplug all but one "part" at a time and see if it will work. Check each connection. Repeat.
So, what was the result you may wonder. Well I got it all working perfectly after I:
1) Plugged the keyboard directly into one computer, restarted, verified the keyboard worked, then switched the cord from the computer to the KVM switch.
2) Switched mice (from a USB mouse to a PS2 mouse).
3) Repeat step #1 with the mouse.
After I got computer #1 working I turned on computer #2 and it worked fine. The switch works like advertised. Excellent!
Except I can't help but wonder what on earth everything was thinking to begin with! The components are hooked up exactly the same (with the exception of switching the mouse) as they were the first time when nothing worked. Even if the mouse didn't work, the keyboard should have. Very weird.
Another thing...video cable splitters (the cable kind) don't work very well (unless you are not bothered by double-vision on your monitor). You really DO need a powered video splitting device.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Plans
Another very good reason for not getting too attached to plans is that they tend to change. Not unexpectedly, my weekend did not go quite like I thought it would go. I did get one book read and I did work some on my piles of paperwork. We did have family and friends over on Labor Day. But besides that, it held lots of unexpected activities (not that I didn't enjoy myself).
The first thing we did Saturday was drive to Issaquah to have the hinges installed on our kitchen cabinet doors. (What? you may say.) The story goes like this:
Many years ago we built our house. (And I mean that literally. We did have help here and there, but for the most part we did build it by ourselves.) We have friends who are cabinet makers. When we got to the kitchen, they generously offered to help us build our own kitchen and bathroom cabinets. So we did. The cabinets were built and transported to our new house. We installed them. The cabinets, not the doors or drawer fronts.
The cabinet doors and drawer fronts were purchased, but were unfinished (because we wanted to finish them ourselves). The project of finishing the doors and drawer fronts was way down on the list of things to do to finish the house. This is partly because the absence of cabinet doors and drawer fronts does not prevent you from using the kitchen cabinets. There were other things much higher on the list (like putting in doors on the bedrooms and bathrooms and finishing them).
Well those cabinet doors and drawer fronts finally made it to the top of the list. Mom has been working on finishing them for several weeks now, and she had the door fronts done so we could get the hinges installed (by the same generous friends who helped us build them to begin with) and hang the doors. We carefully loaded them into the trunk of my car, drove to Issaquah, had a fun time installing the hinges, (WOW! Having the right tools for the job makes a big difference!!!), and transported them home. Dad and I spent Saturday afternoon installing the doors. They look great! We spent part of Monday morning installing the bathroom cabinet drawer fronts. They look great too!
The rest of the weekend was spent cleaning-up for company and having company over. It was fun.
The first thing we did Saturday was drive to Issaquah to have the hinges installed on our kitchen cabinet doors. (What? you may say.) The story goes like this:
Many years ago we built our house. (And I mean that literally. We did have help here and there, but for the most part we did build it by ourselves.) We have friends who are cabinet makers. When we got to the kitchen, they generously offered to help us build our own kitchen and bathroom cabinets. So we did. The cabinets were built and transported to our new house. We installed them. The cabinets, not the doors or drawer fronts.
The cabinet doors and drawer fronts were purchased, but were unfinished (because we wanted to finish them ourselves). The project of finishing the doors and drawer fronts was way down on the list of things to do to finish the house. This is partly because the absence of cabinet doors and drawer fronts does not prevent you from using the kitchen cabinets. There were other things much higher on the list (like putting in doors on the bedrooms and bathrooms and finishing them).
Well those cabinet doors and drawer fronts finally made it to the top of the list. Mom has been working on finishing them for several weeks now, and she had the door fronts done so we could get the hinges installed (by the same generous friends who helped us build them to begin with) and hang the doors. We carefully loaded them into the trunk of my car, drove to Issaquah, had a fun time installing the hinges, (WOW! Having the right tools for the job makes a big difference!!!), and transported them home. Dad and I spent Saturday afternoon installing the doors. They look great! We spent part of Monday morning installing the bathroom cabinet drawer fronts. They look great too!
The rest of the weekend was spent cleaning-up for company and having company over. It was fun.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Holiday Weekends
My philosophy on holiday weekends is unencumbered. I don't mind of there are planned activities or none at all. I take advantage of both kinds.
Planned activities can be fun. Not having planned activities is equally fun, although in a different sort of way. There are always a multitude of things that I never have time to do (so it seems) so having unplanned time means I can tackle one of those things. Or maybe even several.
If it is a holiday, I do try to work in something that is unusual. The unusual thing for me is reading a book. Not listening to a book on tape, but reading one the old fashioned way. My entire life being considered, it is unusual for me that reading a book would be unusual. We're talking about the girl who used to inhale books at the rate of 6-8 per day. And those are days when I could only read in the evenings and here and there a bit in between! The library shuttered when it saw our family coming. My family would limit me to 50 books and split the other 50 of our family limit between the rest of them. Happily we visited the library every 3 weeks to get new reading material.
Those days are long past. Now I have gone months without reading anything but my Bible and devotional materials (book-wise). I also find that I enjoy a more moderate pace when reading, instead of the headlong dash I used to enjoy. Of course, it may also be a reflection of the heavier reading material I tend to tackle, although I still enjoy "children's" stories from time to time.
This holiday weekend I have some of everything in mind. There is the unplanned time for tackling piles of paperwork, our video library cataloging project I started last weekend, and maybe even a book or two. We will be having some family over for Labor Day. And I am looking forward to whatever else it brings.
Planned activities can be fun. Not having planned activities is equally fun, although in a different sort of way. There are always a multitude of things that I never have time to do (so it seems) so having unplanned time means I can tackle one of those things. Or maybe even several.
If it is a holiday, I do try to work in something that is unusual. The unusual thing for me is reading a book. Not listening to a book on tape, but reading one the old fashioned way. My entire life being considered, it is unusual for me that reading a book would be unusual. We're talking about the girl who used to inhale books at the rate of 6-8 per day. And those are days when I could only read in the evenings and here and there a bit in between! The library shuttered when it saw our family coming. My family would limit me to 50 books and split the other 50 of our family limit between the rest of them. Happily we visited the library every 3 weeks to get new reading material.
Those days are long past. Now I have gone months without reading anything but my Bible and devotional materials (book-wise). I also find that I enjoy a more moderate pace when reading, instead of the headlong dash I used to enjoy. Of course, it may also be a reflection of the heavier reading material I tend to tackle, although I still enjoy "children's" stories from time to time.
This holiday weekend I have some of everything in mind. There is the unplanned time for tackling piles of paperwork, our video library cataloging project I started last weekend, and maybe even a book or two. We will be having some family over for Labor Day. And I am looking forward to whatever else it brings.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
In Memory of Louise
Below is a "memorial" written by Louise's caretaker of many years. I want to share it with you in memory of the dear lady who was once a faithful volunteer at EFF. I will miss her.This picture was taken in May, 2004, when Louise moved away and was no longer able to volunteer regularly.
Our dearest, sweetest, Louise was ushered quietly to Heaven on Wednesday, August 29, 2007, at approx. 9:00 pm.
She was independent to the moment. I was able to be at her side and remind her of the love of her many friends here...this side of Heaven.
Louise has never forgotten her friends at EFF -- thank you for all the memories you gave her -- and for allowing her to make her contribution in her way.
She and I would argue about just when she came into contact with this band of political friends. Well, it looks like I get to have the last word on the subject! For once!
Louise began her illustrious journey early in the days of Bob's gubernatorial campaign. Those were the days when mailing lists were still compiled and sorted by hand -- and weeks before we had our first office computer. I had contacted Louise to see if she wouldn't mind comparing some mailing lists to look for duplicates. All she needed to do was cross off any she found.
I dropped off the lists at her home. And, when I returned two days later not only had she identified the duplicates -- she had retyped the entire mailing list on her little portable typewriter.
And, history was made.
I remember that anytime I called her house, I would get her answering machine, of course. And, she always stated her name the same confident way on the greeting... "Louise....T.....Moore."
My own history with Louise goes back a little further. I was in the third grade when my mother made arrangements for the Sunday School bus to pick my siblings and me up for church.
There was Louise...the greeter on the bus! And, so our lives first touched. She quickly became a friend of the family. For years my mother would take us to visit Louise and check up on her. Then, when I was on my own, I continued the tradition.
Of Louise it can truly be said, "Thank you for giving to the Lord. Mine was a life that was changed."
We appreciate your prayers and thoughts. Together, we can all rejoice with the angels -- a hero of the Faith went home today.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
The Booth
While filing computer files, I ran across this picture of me with the EFF booth in June of this year. It's a bit blurry, but you get the idea.I'm not on booth duty very often, but it was fun. This was at the King County Republican Party Convention.
Cleaning Up
I love to organize, sort, and in general clean things up. I rarely have enough time to keep up with all of the stuff in my life that needs to have the above done to it. This is especially true with regards to my office move of a couple of months ago. The amount of time I had between when I was given a firm deadline to move and when I had to be moved was so small, the only way to accomplish it was to "box-up" everything and move.
The resulting pile of boxes in my new office has been a sore spot for me. I envision myself surrounded with neatly labeled files and drawers, with a place for everything and everything in its place. Instead I found myself not knowing where anything was and without a place for anything.
Happily that situation has been slowly resolving itself. I made it through my vacation by putting boxes in out-of-the-way locations so they wouldn't get in anyone's way while I was gone. Since I have returned I have made steady (if slow) progress on digging these boxes out of their various locations, sorting through them, tossing stuff, filing stuff, and passing stuff along to the new, correct owner of that particular job. It's been fun! (At least for me.)
In addition, my new job has lots less paperwork associated with it. And no old paperwork exists! I get to start from scratch!!! What bliss!
The resulting pile of boxes in my new office has been a sore spot for me. I envision myself surrounded with neatly labeled files and drawers, with a place for everything and everything in its place. Instead I found myself not knowing where anything was and without a place for anything.
Happily that situation has been slowly resolving itself. I made it through my vacation by putting boxes in out-of-the-way locations so they wouldn't get in anyone's way while I was gone. Since I have returned I have made steady (if slow) progress on digging these boxes out of their various locations, sorting through them, tossing stuff, filing stuff, and passing stuff along to the new, correct owner of that particular job. It's been fun! (At least for me.)
In addition, my new job has lots less paperwork associated with it. And no old paperwork exists! I get to start from scratch!!! What bliss!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Meet Jade
Here's a picture from our company picnic. Meet Jade.The apron is because I was doing dishes and took a break to do a little baby holding. :-)
Monday, August 27, 2007
The Phantom of the Opera & other weekend activities
This weekend I watched the new version of "The Phantom of the Opera." It was very good. The music was outstanding. The songs are still running through my head. All of the words now make sense to me. It had a satisfying ending. However, for the record, it is way to intense for children.
My project for the weekend was to catalog all of the movies we have recorded off TV to DVD so I know which ones we have and which ones we don't. Our large VHS collection is beginning to deteriorate (physically) due to age. We might have to burn some old VHS movies directly to DVD, but we will lose a lot of quality by doing this. I'd rather just get new versions if possible. I have cable TV at my Olympia home so the quality is usually better than the old antenna recorded ones anyway.
It was rather fun seeing what (mostly) my sister had selected to record. It was mainly old movies...things like "The Thin Man" series, Abbott and Costello, very old Roy Rodgers movies, etc. There were quite a few that she couldn't remember why she recorded them and hadn't taken time yet to watch them. So I have added to my weekend project list looking up the old movies and finding out what they are about for our video library database.
My brother (bless his heart) is working on putting together an online version of the video library database so I (and others) can see what we have (and what we don't have) from anywhere. Some day we would like to let our friends view our video list online and pick out a movie to watch. Lots of fun!
My project for the weekend was to catalog all of the movies we have recorded off TV to DVD so I know which ones we have and which ones we don't. Our large VHS collection is beginning to deteriorate (physically) due to age. We might have to burn some old VHS movies directly to DVD, but we will lose a lot of quality by doing this. I'd rather just get new versions if possible. I have cable TV at my Olympia home so the quality is usually better than the old antenna recorded ones anyway.
It was rather fun seeing what (mostly) my sister had selected to record. It was mainly old movies...things like "The Thin Man" series, Abbott and Costello, very old Roy Rodgers movies, etc. There were quite a few that she couldn't remember why she recorded them and hadn't taken time yet to watch them. So I have added to my weekend project list looking up the old movies and finding out what they are about for our video library database.
My brother (bless his heart) is working on putting together an online version of the video library database so I (and others) can see what we have (and what we don't have) from anywhere. Some day we would like to let our friends view our video list online and pick out a movie to watch. Lots of fun!
Friday, August 24, 2007
Company Picnic
Yesterday we had our "company picnic." Attendees included staff, their families, volunteers and their families, and a few former employees and volunteers who have stayed in touch. It made quite a gathering!!! According to my count we had 68 people there.
The attendees ranged from our spunky 93 year old volunteer who believes in driving the speed limit (or better) to one of our employees little 3 month old daughter. We had a few teenagers and lots of little kids. There was a small pool and sandbox; water balloon toss and sack races; basketball, football, and frisbee throwing. Plus tons of great food and conversation.
Since this event was held at my Olympia home, getting ready for this event was a large part of my last two weeks. I'm still sore from yesterday's efforts. But it was worth it!
I'll see if I can get some pictures from the "official" photographer and post them sometime.
On the work front, I am nearing the end of my list of things to do to finish up the Media Studio. This morning I was able to get the projector installed and ordered the face plates for the data lines that are now happily running through the walls and attic. (Thanks Dad for helping me on Wednesday morning!) I hope I don't have to crawl through the attic again any time soon.
The attendees ranged from our spunky 93 year old volunteer who believes in driving the speed limit (or better) to one of our employees little 3 month old daughter. We had a few teenagers and lots of little kids. There was a small pool and sandbox; water balloon toss and sack races; basketball, football, and frisbee throwing. Plus tons of great food and conversation.
Since this event was held at my Olympia home, getting ready for this event was a large part of my last two weeks. I'm still sore from yesterday's efforts. But it was worth it!
I'll see if I can get some pictures from the "official" photographer and post them sometime.
On the work front, I am nearing the end of my list of things to do to finish up the Media Studio. This morning I was able to get the projector installed and ordered the face plates for the data lines that are now happily running through the walls and attic. (Thanks Dad for helping me on Wednesday morning!) I hope I don't have to crawl through the attic again any time soon.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Camp Week 3
Camp week 3. This is the older girl's camp; although a couple of younger ones snuck in for various reasons. It was a very nice week.
Camp Week 2
Week 2 of camp. This is the week it rained from Tuesday through Friday. It was an opportunity to be creative. We did a lot of unique activities; and skipped the sleeping outdoors one.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Summary
I know...I haven't updated my blog for ages. But things are just now settling down to some semblance of normality. So I will try to give you a summary of what has happened since April.
First, I switched jobs (not employers). In my new role one of my first responsibilities was to set-up a Media Studio. This involved everything: remodeling a large open space we rented in the building next door into three rooms (think contractors, painters, electricians, telephone men, etc.), choosing colors, finding lighting, researching and purchasing several thousand dollars worth of equipment (think cameras, lights, microphones, mixing boards, projectors, screen, etc.), and furniture (chairs, tables, podium, linens, etc.). The room was first used at the beginning of June. That kept me more than busy for April, May and well into June.
Next, we decided to install a new server. As the former computer guru at work (we have one in-training) I had a lot of responsibility during this transition. Unfortunately, although the plan was sound, the execution had a few bumps (did I say a FEW?). If you can envision the frustration caused by an old and failing server (you never knew when it would crash next), and a new server (don't even think of upgrading to Exchange 2007 anytime soon) you can get the picture. After reinstalling the operating system several times and hiring three computer experts, we finally got the whole thing working the week before I was leaving for three weeks of vacation. (Did I mention we ended up having to create a new domain?) That blew a lot of May and June and right into July when I went on vacation from work.
For three weeks in July I volunteered as Girl's Camp Director for Camp Woodworth (www.campwoodworth.org). We had a very blessed year and it was profitable for eternity. A friend of camp donated a lovely digital camera which was well used. We got lots of great pictures. If I can ever figure out (or have time to figure out) how to post large files, I'll post the closing slide-show from camp on my blog.
My work did not get done at work while I was gone (imagine that). The day after I returned we held our first live web-casting event from the media studio. Needless to say Monday & Tuesday were very busy.
While I was gone we hired a new employee who was taking over part of my old job. Hence I needed to give her files and explain stuff to her. All while keeping up on my new job duties of course. Between one thing and another, things have been busy. However, I see light. Slowly I am divesting myself of my "old" job duties and am able to fully dedicate entire days to my new ones.
This Thursday is our staff and volunteer picnic at my Olympia home. While I might think the yard looks great and ready for a picnic, the homeowner disagrees. I can report that I got lots of exercise last week and will do so this week. Yard work is fun however, so I really don't mind.
Just to make sure my life stayed interesting, at the end of April my dear friend had her first little baby a month early. Another friend had a baby in June, one in July, and one in August. And that doesn't count the other friends and co-workers who had babies the previous 6 months! Lots of fun!!! I'll see if I can get some pictures posted.
Well that's all for now. Since I'm caught-up, maybe I won't feel quite so overwhelmed with the thought of posting something on my blog and will do it more regularly.
First, I switched jobs (not employers). In my new role one of my first responsibilities was to set-up a Media Studio. This involved everything: remodeling a large open space we rented in the building next door into three rooms (think contractors, painters, electricians, telephone men, etc.), choosing colors, finding lighting, researching and purchasing several thousand dollars worth of equipment (think cameras, lights, microphones, mixing boards, projectors, screen, etc.), and furniture (chairs, tables, podium, linens, etc.). The room was first used at the beginning of June. That kept me more than busy for April, May and well into June.
Next, we decided to install a new server. As the former computer guru at work (we have one in-training) I had a lot of responsibility during this transition. Unfortunately, although the plan was sound, the execution had a few bumps (did I say a FEW?). If you can envision the frustration caused by an old and failing server (you never knew when it would crash next), and a new server (don't even think of upgrading to Exchange 2007 anytime soon) you can get the picture. After reinstalling the operating system several times and hiring three computer experts, we finally got the whole thing working the week before I was leaving for three weeks of vacation. (Did I mention we ended up having to create a new domain?) That blew a lot of May and June and right into July when I went on vacation from work.
For three weeks in July I volunteered as Girl's Camp Director for Camp Woodworth (www.campwoodworth.org). We had a very blessed year and it was profitable for eternity. A friend of camp donated a lovely digital camera which was well used. We got lots of great pictures. If I can ever figure out (or have time to figure out) how to post large files, I'll post the closing slide-show from camp on my blog.
My work did not get done at work while I was gone (imagine that). The day after I returned we held our first live web-casting event from the media studio. Needless to say Monday & Tuesday were very busy.
While I was gone we hired a new employee who was taking over part of my old job. Hence I needed to give her files and explain stuff to her. All while keeping up on my new job duties of course. Between one thing and another, things have been busy. However, I see light. Slowly I am divesting myself of my "old" job duties and am able to fully dedicate entire days to my new ones.
This Thursday is our staff and volunteer picnic at my Olympia home. While I might think the yard looks great and ready for a picnic, the homeowner disagrees. I can report that I got lots of exercise last week and will do so this week. Yard work is fun however, so I really don't mind.
Just to make sure my life stayed interesting, at the end of April my dear friend had her first little baby a month early. Another friend had a baby in June, one in July, and one in August. And that doesn't count the other friends and co-workers who had babies the previous 6 months! Lots of fun!!! I'll see if I can get some pictures posted.
Well that's all for now. Since I'm caught-up, maybe I won't feel quite so overwhelmed with the thought of posting something on my blog and will do it more regularly.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Quick Update
Mr. Glass went home on Monday. Home to his house with his family. He is alive and doing very well, especially for someone who was "dead." He will need some therapy, especially speech, but praise the Lord for his miraculous recovery!
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Reflections on Doctors
I have many conflicting views about doctors. On the one side there is admiration for their skill and knowledge, appreciation of their high calling, and fascination at what modern medicine can accomplish.
On the other side is distain for their sometimes callous opinions, horror of their principles, and sadness at their mistakes.
So, what brings this topic up you might ask. Please do.
Last Friday I talked about Mr. Glass, who apparently had little brain activity and little chance of recovery. I dared not post about this sooner because of the conflicting messages the family had been receiving from medical staff. The story following his heart attack goes something like this.
-He had received care in a timely manner and little damage was caused.
-He needed a procedure to reduce brain damage.
-His brain scan showed no damage.
-His brain scan showed no activity and he would die.
-His brain scan showed some activity and he would probably be OK.
-His brain scan showed only lower brain activity and he would eventually die without comprehending anything ever again. i.e. He was a vegetable.
At this point he was moved to a hospice facility where it was expected he would "finish dying" within a week. He would not feel any pain. He could not feel pain. He was not really there anymore.
On Saturday when I visited I saw no evidence to the contrary.
On Sunday when I visited I got a shock. He was awake. He looked right at me. He indicated he wanted water. He said a word that was understandable.
On Monday he was doing better. Today better too.
So doctors...you have a choice. Either you were way wrong and were going to let someone die before their time, or else God performed a miracle. Take your pick.
Praise the Lord! He has a long way to go and isn't out of danger yet, but where there is life, there is hope.
On the other side is distain for their sometimes callous opinions, horror of their principles, and sadness at their mistakes.
So, what brings this topic up you might ask. Please do.
Last Friday I talked about Mr. Glass, who apparently had little brain activity and little chance of recovery. I dared not post about this sooner because of the conflicting messages the family had been receiving from medical staff. The story following his heart attack goes something like this.
-He had received care in a timely manner and little damage was caused.
-He needed a procedure to reduce brain damage.
-His brain scan showed no damage.
-His brain scan showed no activity and he would die.
-His brain scan showed some activity and he would probably be OK.
-His brain scan showed only lower brain activity and he would eventually die without comprehending anything ever again. i.e. He was a vegetable.
At this point he was moved to a hospice facility where it was expected he would "finish dying" within a week. He would not feel any pain. He could not feel pain. He was not really there anymore.
On Saturday when I visited I saw no evidence to the contrary.
On Sunday when I visited I got a shock. He was awake. He looked right at me. He indicated he wanted water. He said a word that was understandable.
On Monday he was doing better. Today better too.
So doctors...you have a choice. Either you were way wrong and were going to let someone die before their time, or else God performed a miracle. Take your pick.
Praise the Lord! He has a long way to go and isn't out of danger yet, but where there is life, there is hope.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Reflections on Life
Life is fleeting, short and unexpected. You never know when something might happen to you or a friend.
Please pray for my friends, the Glass Family. The father of the family (Ken) had a massive heart attack last Thursday evening. After a week of being in the hospital, they have determined that he has very limited brain activity. He is going into hospice care until he finishes dying.
I can only imagine what the family is going through. I cannot imagine how I would feel if it were my Dad laying there in the hospital. The immediate family are all Christians, but it is still very hard.
Please pray for them.
Please pray for my friends, the Glass Family. The father of the family (Ken) had a massive heart attack last Thursday evening. After a week of being in the hospital, they have determined that he has very limited brain activity. He is going into hospice care until he finishes dying.
I can only imagine what the family is going through. I cannot imagine how I would feel if it were my Dad laying there in the hospital. The immediate family are all Christians, but it is still very hard.
Please pray for them.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Reflections on the Wedding
I like weddings. On February 10, 2007, my brother married the love of his life in a beautiful and meaningful ceremony that was very special. Here are some of my thoughts about that day.
*Happy - I was/am very happy for Jeremy & Rachel. I do not begrudge them their new-found joy in life.
*Praise to God - For the marvelous way He brought them together and the many ways He provided for the wedding and their future life together.
*Fun - Maybe it is just me, but I think all of the activity surrounding the wedding was fun! I enjoy large projects, multiple details and being surrounded by lots of family and friends.
*Peace - Knowing that God had directed their lives and that He would continue to do so.
*Excitement - Did I mention that over 550 people were there?
*Anticipation - All those plans were coming together...very nicely.
*Honored - What a privilege to be asked to participate in this wedding.
*Hot - It was hot standing on the stage with bright lights shining on you while you try to stand still (and make sure two little flower girls stand still too).
*Relief - It was over. There were no major problems. Everyone had a good time. They got married (the most important part).
*Joy - The whole day was full of joy!
*Happy - I was/am very happy for Jeremy & Rachel. I do not begrudge them their new-found joy in life.
*Praise to God - For the marvelous way He brought them together and the many ways He provided for the wedding and their future life together.
*Fun - Maybe it is just me, but I think all of the activity surrounding the wedding was fun! I enjoy large projects, multiple details and being surrounded by lots of family and friends.
*Peace - Knowing that God had directed their lives and that He would continue to do so.
*Excitement - Did I mention that over 550 people were there?
*Anticipation - All those plans were coming together...very nicely.
*Honored - What a privilege to be asked to participate in this wedding.
*Hot - It was hot standing on the stage with bright lights shining on you while you try to stand still (and make sure two little flower girls stand still too).
*Relief - It was over. There were no major problems. Everyone had a good time. They got married (the most important part).
*Joy - The whole day was full of joy!
THE Wedding
Not mine, my brother's!
My little, big brother got married last month, and I have been waiting for him to update his website before I blogged about it so there would be a selection of pictures for people to see. Visit www.ourcourtship.com if you want to see and hear more about it.
My little, big brother got married last month, and I have been waiting for him to update his website before I blogged about it so there would be a selection of pictures for people to see. Visit www.ourcourtship.com if you want to see and hear more about it.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
A Few of My Unfavorite Things
I am not what most people call a picky eater. Last night I got a chance to try a new food...scallops. They were good. Not destined to become a favorite, but good enough to eat. I understand they are also very nutritious. Good enough for me.
That got me thinking about the few foods I don't like. I'm sure I can't remember them all, but here's a list along with why.
- Green peppers - I actually like them in theory, but they give me a stomachache in reality. This took me quite a while to figure out. Now that I understand what is going on, I don't hesitate to pick them out of my food anymore.
- Hot peppers/hot food - Why would anyone think that burning your mouth would be pleasant? Again it is not the taste as much as the result that I mind.
- Black pepper - I don't object if it is in food, especially in small amounts, but you won't catch me putting it on something on my own. Too much makes me sneeze or at least have a tickle in my nose...and it doesn't take much to be "too much" for me.
- Liver - I actually didn't try any liver until I was in my early teens. I entered the eating experience determined to not let any outside influences determine if I would or would not like this food. I didn't like it. The aftertaste was terrible.
- Raw fish aka sushi - Why people would pay big money for raw fish I fail to understand. Yuck! I tried a variety once-upon-a-time with a friend so we could say we had tried. I believe in giving foods a fair chance to impress themselves upon my taste buds. In this case depress was more like it. The texture wasn't pleasant either.
- Clams - Big globs of fleshy, chewy, fishy flesh. I'd rather spend my money on something else. A lot of people swallow them whole! Why bother?!?
- Blue cheese - How did eating mold ever become popular? There are lots of things that I will eat if I am desperate, but that doesn't mean I have to like them.
There are some other things I generally avoid, but they aren't really food: cola pop, coffee and mayonnaise.
That got me thinking about the few foods I don't like. I'm sure I can't remember them all, but here's a list along with why.
- Green peppers - I actually like them in theory, but they give me a stomachache in reality. This took me quite a while to figure out. Now that I understand what is going on, I don't hesitate to pick them out of my food anymore.
- Hot peppers/hot food - Why would anyone think that burning your mouth would be pleasant? Again it is not the taste as much as the result that I mind.
- Black pepper - I don't object if it is in food, especially in small amounts, but you won't catch me putting it on something on my own. Too much makes me sneeze or at least have a tickle in my nose...and it doesn't take much to be "too much" for me.
- Liver - I actually didn't try any liver until I was in my early teens. I entered the eating experience determined to not let any outside influences determine if I would or would not like this food. I didn't like it. The aftertaste was terrible.
- Raw fish aka sushi - Why people would pay big money for raw fish I fail to understand. Yuck! I tried a variety once-upon-a-time with a friend so we could say we had tried. I believe in giving foods a fair chance to impress themselves upon my taste buds. In this case depress was more like it. The texture wasn't pleasant either.
- Clams - Big globs of fleshy, chewy, fishy flesh. I'd rather spend my money on something else. A lot of people swallow them whole! Why bother?!?
- Blue cheese - How did eating mold ever become popular? There are lots of things that I will eat if I am desperate, but that doesn't mean I have to like them.
There are some other things I generally avoid, but they aren't really food: cola pop, coffee and mayonnaise.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Disappointments in Life
Life is full of disappointments. At least that's what I've always been told. I rarely experience this because I keep my expectations low and my enjoyment of whatever comes along high. However there is always the occasional experience that fits into the "disappointment" category. Today I had one of those.
This evening I was scheduled to host a wedding shower for a co-worker (the past-tense should give you a clue about what is coming). Shortly after noon the groom let me know that not only was he sick and going to go home, but his bride was sicker than he was. He asked me to cancel the shower for tonight and said that we would try to reschedule for later. So I cancelled it.
I am trying very hard to think about this properly. First, it is very sad that the bride and groom are both so sick less than 2 weeks before their wedding. It must be much harder for them than for me. Second, I am grateful that I received the message from the groom about 1 minute BEFORE I walked out the door to do the final shopping for the party tonight. Third, some of the food can be frozen. Fourth, my co-workers are enjoying the fruits and veggies, so they aren't going to waste. Fifth, at least it wasn't ME that was sick and had to cancel. Sixth, all of the attendees are close at hand and easy to notify about the cancellation. Seventh, I now have an extra free evening this week. Eighth, being sick is not usually fatal. There could have been much worse reasons to have to cancel the shower tonight. Ninth, we should be able to have the shower someday. Tenth, God knows best.
I'm sure I'll come up with more thinks to be thankful for. However, I still have to admit that I am a bit disappointed. Ahh well, such is life. Hopefully we will be able to reschedule for sometime in the future when all are well (pun intended). :-)
This evening I was scheduled to host a wedding shower for a co-worker (the past-tense should give you a clue about what is coming). Shortly after noon the groom let me know that not only was he sick and going to go home, but his bride was sicker than he was. He asked me to cancel the shower for tonight and said that we would try to reschedule for later. So I cancelled it.
I am trying very hard to think about this properly. First, it is very sad that the bride and groom are both so sick less than 2 weeks before their wedding. It must be much harder for them than for me. Second, I am grateful that I received the message from the groom about 1 minute BEFORE I walked out the door to do the final shopping for the party tonight. Third, some of the food can be frozen. Fourth, my co-workers are enjoying the fruits and veggies, so they aren't going to waste. Fifth, at least it wasn't ME that was sick and had to cancel. Sixth, all of the attendees are close at hand and easy to notify about the cancellation. Seventh, I now have an extra free evening this week. Eighth, being sick is not usually fatal. There could have been much worse reasons to have to cancel the shower tonight. Ninth, we should be able to have the shower someday. Tenth, God knows best.
I'm sure I'll come up with more thinks to be thankful for. However, I still have to admit that I am a bit disappointed. Ahh well, such is life. Hopefully we will be able to reschedule for sometime in the future when all are well (pun intended). :-)
Monday, March 05, 2007
Birthday Surprises
Birthdays are fun...at least that is my perspective. When other people complain to me about their birthday I tell them, "Well having a birthday is better than the alternative." So far they all have to agree with that. :-)
Last Saturday my family gave me a Surprise Birthday Party. It was a double-surprise. First, the party. Second, that we celebrated (officially) my 35th Birthday. The second was a surprise because this year is not my 35th Birthday.
Here's the explanation. The year I turned 35 my family asked me if I would like to have a party. (We try to do big parties every 5-10 years for family members.) I replied that yes, that sounded like fun. (I enjoy just about any excuse to get together with friends and family.) But through a series of circumstances, the party never materialized. Those were busy days.
However, my family did not forget their promise to have a 35th Birthday Party for me...so they had one last Saturday. True, it was about two years too late, but whose counting?
The party invitation did, I have since heard, generate a lot of speculation among my friends who thought they knew how old I was (or at least that I was older than 35), so my family had to repeat the above explanation many times.
Many thanks to the wonderful family and friends who put this together and attended (and many thanks to those who sent birthday greetings even though they were unable to attend)! I had a delightful time and felt loved by all.
Last Saturday my family gave me a Surprise Birthday Party. It was a double-surprise. First, the party. Second, that we celebrated (officially) my 35th Birthday. The second was a surprise because this year is not my 35th Birthday.
Here's the explanation. The year I turned 35 my family asked me if I would like to have a party. (We try to do big parties every 5-10 years for family members.) I replied that yes, that sounded like fun. (I enjoy just about any excuse to get together with friends and family.) But through a series of circumstances, the party never materialized. Those were busy days.
However, my family did not forget their promise to have a 35th Birthday Party for me...so they had one last Saturday. True, it was about two years too late, but whose counting?
The party invitation did, I have since heard, generate a lot of speculation among my friends who thought they knew how old I was (or at least that I was older than 35), so my family had to repeat the above explanation many times.
Many thanks to the wonderful family and friends who put this together and attended (and many thanks to those who sent birthday greetings even though they were unable to attend)! I had a delightful time and felt loved by all.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Happy March!
March is in like a lion around here...we had snow yesterday!
Now some of you may consider snow to be "old news," but here in the Pacific Northwest, every flake of snow is celebrated or feared (depending on who you ask). Wednesday was the weirdest weather day I every remember seeing. Snow one minute (it didn't stick) and bright sunshine the next. You could literally wait a few minutes if you didn't like the weather to get something different. One time it was near white-out with snow and wind combined.
Although the snow didn't stick here, it did other places. And then some places had a sunny day with no snow.
Very weird weather for the last day of February.
Now some of you may consider snow to be "old news," but here in the Pacific Northwest, every flake of snow is celebrated or feared (depending on who you ask). Wednesday was the weirdest weather day I every remember seeing. Snow one minute (it didn't stick) and bright sunshine the next. You could literally wait a few minutes if you didn't like the weather to get something different. One time it was near white-out with snow and wind combined.
Although the snow didn't stick here, it did other places. And then some places had a sunny day with no snow.
Very weird weather for the last day of February.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Amazing Grace Movie
It may seem ironic to those who know me best that I am recommending a movie, because I don't go to movie theaters. However, that does not mean that I object to the many other people who do.
"Amazing Grace" is being released today. You can visit www.amazinggracemovie.com to read more about it and find a local listing.
This movie tells the inspiring story of William Wilberforce, a British lawmaker who, because of his Christian beliefs, fought to end slavery in Britain. It took him 20 years (20 years!) to pass legislation that outlawed the slave trade. Then it took him another 26 years to abolish slavery in the British Empire! The final legislation passed just three days before his death.
I have heard nothing but rave reviews from my colleagues who have had the opportunity to screen some or all of this movie. If you are a movie goer, I urge you to see "Amazing Grace."
And I challenge you to ask yourself this question: What would I give 46 years of my life to accomplish?
"Amazing Grace" is being released today. You can visit www.amazinggracemovie.com to read more about it and find a local listing.
This movie tells the inspiring story of William Wilberforce, a British lawmaker who, because of his Christian beliefs, fought to end slavery in Britain. It took him 20 years (20 years!) to pass legislation that outlawed the slave trade. Then it took him another 26 years to abolish slavery in the British Empire! The final legislation passed just three days before his death.
I have heard nothing but rave reviews from my colleagues who have had the opportunity to screen some or all of this movie. If you are a movie goer, I urge you to see "Amazing Grace."
And I challenge you to ask yourself this question: What would I give 46 years of my life to accomplish?
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
New Year, New Employees & New Baby
The New Year has come, along with old and new work. I don't mind. I like my job and my coworkers. We are fighting for a good cause, and that makes the hard work worthwhile.
Our pastor preached a good sermon on Sunday about the need to live one day at a time. God doesn't give us a "year-full" of blessings at a time; He gives them to us one day at a time. Hence the exhortation to pray for our *daily* bread. We wouldn't want to eat a year's worth of food in one sitting any more than God would give us a year's worth of blessings all at once. Interesting thoughts.
Yesterday we had two new employees start work. One of them will be my future "replacement" in my current job so I can move along to my next one. This will involve weeks of training...and I have to clean off the second desk in my office so he can use it.
Things should be quiet around here -- 8 of my fellow employees are gone on a business trip to Washington, D.C. However, this morning we had a meeting with 24 people that I had to lead (because everyone else was gone). That more than made-up for the 8 people who were missing from the office.
I doubt if things will be any too quiet around here tomorrow. The phones will likely be ringing off the hook because of our case being heard before the U.S. Supreme Court.
My Bible study this evening was cancelled because the leader is sick. In addition, they are calling for snow and she didn't want me (or my sister who drives even further and on worse roads than I do) to be traveling late tonight. I hope she gets better quickly.
And finally, my dear friend who got married this summer is expecting a bouncing baby boy! I am SO very happy for her and her wonderful husband. I am already trying to figure out how I can visit her during or after the birth. It will be a bit tricky. I AM hoping that she will be able to arrange her schedule (which is very busy) so that I can host a baby shower for her. That would be such fun!
Our pastor preached a good sermon on Sunday about the need to live one day at a time. God doesn't give us a "year-full" of blessings at a time; He gives them to us one day at a time. Hence the exhortation to pray for our *daily* bread. We wouldn't want to eat a year's worth of food in one sitting any more than God would give us a year's worth of blessings all at once. Interesting thoughts.
Yesterday we had two new employees start work. One of them will be my future "replacement" in my current job so I can move along to my next one. This will involve weeks of training...and I have to clean off the second desk in my office so he can use it.
Things should be quiet around here -- 8 of my fellow employees are gone on a business trip to Washington, D.C. However, this morning we had a meeting with 24 people that I had to lead (because everyone else was gone). That more than made-up for the 8 people who were missing from the office.
I doubt if things will be any too quiet around here tomorrow. The phones will likely be ringing off the hook because of our case being heard before the U.S. Supreme Court.
My Bible study this evening was cancelled because the leader is sick. In addition, they are calling for snow and she didn't want me (or my sister who drives even further and on worse roads than I do) to be traveling late tonight. I hope she gets better quickly.
And finally, my dear friend who got married this summer is expecting a bouncing baby boy! I am SO very happy for her and her wonderful husband. I am already trying to figure out how I can visit her during or after the birth. It will be a bit tricky. I AM hoping that she will be able to arrange her schedule (which is very busy) so that I can host a baby shower for her. That would be such fun!
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Christmas with Grandma
When I arrived home on Friday, December 22, I found that my passport had arrived. Horray!
We packed our bags and loaded up the truck (crew cab) for our trip to Grandma's house. We were able to get away before 10:00 p.m. This is pretty close to a record.
The trip over the mountains and through the valleys went well. The roads were just about the best we had ever seen in the middle of December. I think that partly because we got away from home right at bedtime, everyone (except the driver, which rotated every few hours) slept late into the morning on Saturday. We stopped about 1.5 hours before getting to Grandma's and ate brunch. As a result, the trip was one of the fastest trips we have ever made. It only took us about 16 hours to drive the 800 miles (and that included almost an hour for lunch).
We quickly settled in at Grandma's house. We have been visiting her at least once a year my whole life. We all know just what to do. These days my special task is working to cook-up meals to freeze for Grandma and Uncle to eat when we are gone. This year was no different. I cleaned-out the freezer and organized it so we could fit as much in as possible. I spent almost all of my days cooking, except for Thursday afternoon when I took time off to go swimming with Dad and my sister.
Happily Grandma and Uncle prefer simple meals. We have made more complicated things in the past, and have found them still in the freezer a year later! They are old-fashioned meat and potatoes people. I made dozens of containers full of potatoes and gravy (turkey and beef) and turkey or beef stew. I am happy to report that with my final efforts last night, the freezer is packed full with a few to spare that went into the kitchen freezer.
The kitchen fridge was not cooling things down properly. The milk we were drinking was bairly cool, so after fiddling around with the controls all week, I decided that drastic measures were called for. I spent a good portion of yesterday defrosting the freezer and cleaning out the fridge. I discovered that the back of the freezer was full of ice...and it is the type of fridge that gets its coolness from the freezer. Thanks to the liberal use of my Mom's hairdryer, I was able to get the freezer defrosted in one day. And thanks to the nice cold weather here, I just set the stuff from the freezer (and then the fridge) outside in boxes while I was defrosting it and they kept nice and cold. In fact, the stuff from the fridge hadn't been that cold in a long time. I am happy to report that following the complete defrosting and cleaning of the freezer and fridge, the freezer now keeps ice cream hard and the fridge keeps milk cold! PTL!
Today is the last day at Grandma's house. We will leave for home after supper tonight. We liked the leaving in the evening schedule so much that we have decided to try to do it each time (in the past we have left closer to midnight than supper). The nice thing about this is that we should get home tomorrow in time for New Year's Day football (which will make the guys happy).
Happy New Year's Eve!
We packed our bags and loaded up the truck (crew cab) for our trip to Grandma's house. We were able to get away before 10:00 p.m. This is pretty close to a record.
The trip over the mountains and through the valleys went well. The roads were just about the best we had ever seen in the middle of December. I think that partly because we got away from home right at bedtime, everyone (except the driver, which rotated every few hours) slept late into the morning on Saturday. We stopped about 1.5 hours before getting to Grandma's and ate brunch. As a result, the trip was one of the fastest trips we have ever made. It only took us about 16 hours to drive the 800 miles (and that included almost an hour for lunch).
We quickly settled in at Grandma's house. We have been visiting her at least once a year my whole life. We all know just what to do. These days my special task is working to cook-up meals to freeze for Grandma and Uncle to eat when we are gone. This year was no different. I cleaned-out the freezer and organized it so we could fit as much in as possible. I spent almost all of my days cooking, except for Thursday afternoon when I took time off to go swimming with Dad and my sister.
Happily Grandma and Uncle prefer simple meals. We have made more complicated things in the past, and have found them still in the freezer a year later! They are old-fashioned meat and potatoes people. I made dozens of containers full of potatoes and gravy (turkey and beef) and turkey or beef stew. I am happy to report that with my final efforts last night, the freezer is packed full with a few to spare that went into the kitchen freezer.
The kitchen fridge was not cooling things down properly. The milk we were drinking was bairly cool, so after fiddling around with the controls all week, I decided that drastic measures were called for. I spent a good portion of yesterday defrosting the freezer and cleaning out the fridge. I discovered that the back of the freezer was full of ice...and it is the type of fridge that gets its coolness from the freezer. Thanks to the liberal use of my Mom's hairdryer, I was able to get the freezer defrosted in one day. And thanks to the nice cold weather here, I just set the stuff from the freezer (and then the fridge) outside in boxes while I was defrosting it and they kept nice and cold. In fact, the stuff from the fridge hadn't been that cold in a long time. I am happy to report that following the complete defrosting and cleaning of the freezer and fridge, the freezer now keeps ice cream hard and the fridge keeps milk cold! PTL!
Today is the last day at Grandma's house. We will leave for home after supper tonight. We liked the leaving in the evening schedule so much that we have decided to try to do it each time (in the past we have left closer to midnight than supper). The nice thing about this is that we should get home tomorrow in time for New Year's Day football (which will make the guys happy).
Happy New Year's Eve!
Friday, December 22, 2006
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
We're off to Grandma's house for Christmas! I hope you have a very blessed Christmas season and that God gives you a wonderful New Year!
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Which Superhero Are You?
Your results: You are Superman
You are mild-mannered, good,
strong and you love to help others.
Click here to take the "Which Superhero are you?" quiz...
You are mild-mannered, good,
strong and you love to help others.
| Superman | 70% | |
| Spider-Man | 70% | |
| Supergirl | 65% | |
| Wonder Woman | 65% | |
| Robin | 65% | |
| Green Lantern | 65% | |
| Iron Man | 50% | |
| Hulk | 45% | |
| The Flash | 40% | |
| Catwoman | 35% | |
| Batman | 30% |
Click here to take the "Which Superhero are you?" quiz...
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