Geez.

I guess I wasn't really sure how/if this was reading material for the blog world, but since every time I have gone to post something I really just considered posting about this topic, I figure maybe there is some cartharsis in getting it out, despite leaving out major details out of respect for others. The thing is something in the universe is crazy right now concerning many people in my and Corey's family, and "family" of friends. It just seems like the bad news, which I have come to predict to arrive in threes, just keeps coming! It's gone way beyond three: there are numerous people in our lives that are just going through some really difficult times right now. I've considered needing to get the bad energy out--do I have my house blessed? Do I smudge it? Anything to help with this seemingly bad turn of events in the lives of so many. It's hard to know how to help them, even though most of the time, just thoughts, prayers, calls, and just being there is all that they expect/you know how to provide. My mom was in a car accident on Saturday night, and thankfully is doing just fine. However, the weather wasn't as forgiving for some of the other travelers, so it just becomes a very scary reminder as to how fragile all of our lives are. I know we often forget, but please, just tell those in your lives that you love them, even for the 500th time. I had a really good talk with my parents that night and it was an amazing reminder as to why we are really here, celebrating the holidays. It's about tradition and sharing it with those you love. If we don't have our friends and our family, we have nothing.

Blessings to Bo

Niki & Justin sent me some pictures from their son Bo's Baptism, which was on Oct 19th. Corey & I--along with Niki's sister Mindy--are Bo's godparents! We are so excited to be a part of his life and to watch him grow. There were 2 other babies baptized at this ceremony; the priest had his work cut out for him.

Holiday food modifications

CR made a good point a few weeks ago; although Christmas and all of its celebration revolve around many traditions, Thanksgiving is really all about the food. And since I've been introduced to really quite declious GF food, I am convinced that I don't really have to lose any savor in my culinary life. I've been browsing and decided that if Mohammad won't go to the mountain, bring the mountain to Mohammad. Actually, everyone I've encountered has been very accomodating about meals, but now that my kitchen's functional, I've learned I really like to cook. I'm thinking of trying this one for stuffing, this one for gravy (which can be for any time of the year) and this one for pie crust. Oh and don't forget about the best looking cupcakes I may have ever seen. I know this doesn't affect 99% of you who read this, but it excites me. Who knew.

Happy 30th to my man

I had debated between throwing a surprise party for Corey and just going out to dinner. I joked that he doesn't really like celebrating his birthday, but I know how much he--like everyone else--likes spending time with their friends. So considering all the craziness that's been circling around lately, I thought it was a good time to celebrate. It was mostly a surprise and he was so glad to see so many people all coming together--that was the best part. Happy birthday, baby; I love ya. It's going to be a great decade.

The homemade craps table (this took some online research)


The blackjack dealer & her assistant

Meet our new friend

We are getting a friend to bring home! Thanks to Anne, who has tortured me with cute puppy listings for quite some time, I fretted over his (and another male's) picture. We'll be meeting him in a few weeks. He doesn't have a name yet, but we want it to be Irish. We've got a few ideas, but any suggestions? I've already asked the resident expert, Jane. He's a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, specifically a Blenheim. He sheds little, doesn't need too much exercise, and will only get to about 12 pounds. And he's just so darn cute. Who wouldn't love him?

Visiting my friend gym

Poor gym's been neglected this season because my friend excuses has been visiting way too much. When my workout buddy and I didn't continue our 7:00 am workouts this fall, it became very easy to forget. Changing to GF and getting acclimated to the cooler temps has just zapped me of my energy. I am much more dedicated in the winter because frankly, what else is there to do? Also, there is a lot of hard times going on with several people I know--it just seems like I need to be a little more nurturing to myself. Since we're neighbors now, Jess & I have vowed to have a weekly [power] walk (she can really off-road with Issac's stroller) and I've asked for these for Christmas. Also if anyone's interested in CC skiing, put me on your call list! I know the snow hasn't hit yet, but I'm trying to prepare myself with the positive. Someone suggested I put this in our laundry room--find a TV to mount on the wall and I'm good to go!

11.4.08

Can you imagine what it would have been like to be in Grant Park that night? Unbelievable. The next chapter in history has been written.