One of the greatest perks of going on a road trip is getting to come home. Aurora had grown a foot and I think maybe added a freckle to her nose. Spending time at the wedding with girls who were older but much more pixie like than Aurora made me forget for a bit how tall she is.
And being gone also means Aurora actually missed me. We are far too much a like to spend so many consecutive days together - especially now that those days are mainly filled with HAVING to get ready to make it to school on time and doing HOMEWORK.
I was exuberant when I returned home Sunday night to find Aurora engrossed in "The Corpse Bride" and wanting to cuddle. Every few minutes she would look adoringly up at me and say, "Mom, you're awesome. I love you." Which is much more endearing then the constant, "Mom. mom. mom. mom.....uhhhhhh, I love you." because she forgot what she was only saying my name to bug me and didn't actually have anything to say once I had answered her.
And her manners have shown back up in full force from "Mom, will you please skooch me?" (pushing her chair to the table) to "May I please have a glass of milk?" to "May I get you some tea, mom?" These are the moments when I wear my mommy badge proudly.
We also play much better so dance parties are back on, as well as a new game of Peter Pan (we have been reading Mr. Barrie in the evenings). Peter Pan is quite amazing to play because he is all about make believe anyway (because he believes what he pretends is real). So we have amazing five course dinners and drink horrible medicine and have sword fights - but don't worry we wear our kisses around our necks and it keeps us from getting hurt.
She insisted Tuesday night that she would be Wendy (although she can't remember the Moira Angela Darling part) and I get to be Peter ("OH the Cleverness of me!").
My favourite moment was, "Peter, would you like some tea?" Which came with a knowing look and a waggle of the eyebrows.
Having given that look innumerable times myself I grinned at her and asked, "Wendy, what does that look mean?"
She had the good sense to blush and squirm a bit in her seat.
"Do you look at boys like that for real?"
"No!...... yes."
"What does it mean?"
"That I don't like them."
Good answer my little padawan, good answer. But as she is my daughter we all know she's full of it.
30.10.10
Montana Trip: Episode 6
Our 'harley quinn heroine last said goodbye to us from the end of a motorcycle ride. You may recall she was very much flattered with the label of "hardcore". We must admit, however, she had probably just reached her limit because moments after stopping a bit of a brain freeze began. Or it could have been a face cramp. Hard to say.
Fortunately, the other lovely ladies had the car perfectly prepped for my return: my cozy afghan in the front seat and the heater on full blast (I feel a bit less hardcore and more like a spoiled duchess at this point since JW had to still drive back in the cold rain). But I'm quite certain I continued to grin for the next 7 hours.
And it was definitely a good thing we didn't ride further. Most of the rest of the trip was made in downpour. I would like to point out that there are a lot of idiots on the road. I cannot understand why on a curvy road in the rain one would feel the need to drive 65 mph (even if it is the speed limit) and I am NOT a grannie driver. I think I was sitting comfortably at 60 and still had people passing me - and I could barley see! But, fortunately we were safe and not at all disappointed when the idiots left us far far behind.
We ended up playing one of my favourite car games which is "famous people" (actually I have no idea what the name of game is I just know how to play). I say a name and the next person has to say a name that begins with the first letter of the last name of my person. Double letters (like Marilyn Manson) reverses the flow.
I normally completely and universally kick ass at this game as I have an encyclopedia (did I just compeletely date myself? Should I say wikipedia?) of non-important famous people cached in my brain. However, I think the LOTS of late nights and lots of drinking and little amounts of sleep and the lack of food fried my brain. I mean, there are more names in the world then Larry that begin with the "L", right? And how in the HELL does every single name Frances and Debi think of BEGIN WITH THE BLOODY LETTER "L"!
It got better after we dug into the munchies, and it was funny to see how after a handful of food items all three of us became much more animated and able to answer in fewer than 6 minutes.
The super good news is by the time we made it back to the "Special Effects Taxidermy" sign the clouds had cleared a little bit and our photo shoot began by my turning down a hilly gravel road and then hiking up the side of the grade to the sign and Frances saying "Just get up on the post." ......
I'm pausing for you to remember how uncoordinated I am...... got it?
Well, I made it up the post. This is me practicing my "cougar pose" (because apparently I am NOT old enough to be a cougar - according to some weird definition - I am only old enough to be a "puma").
And then I was going to get a shot of me sitting on the post....
ummm, give me a minute Frances! She didn't even capture the leg wrapped around the post, ass to camera trying to figure out how the hell I was going to turn around, but finally....
I'm really disappointed I didn't know about this sign when I did my senior photos (we won't talk about how long ago that was).
And finally the dismount:
This was the easiest part and as I headed down the hill back to the Robot I saw Debi's face. Her look clearly stated exactly what she was beginning to say, "TL, why didn't you just get on that way?"
Damnit woman! I can't even think of an "L" name, how in the hell am I supposed to tell my limbs the easiest way to climb a giant sign advertising exciting dead things?! Sometimes people just expect way too much from me.
Halloween updates:
Being the Saturday morning of Halloween weekend, which we know basically equates to the official "Adult Halloween"* holiday, I have much to be getting on with. I am borrowing a truck from the Choo Choos (isn't that brave and gracious of them - I promise I grew up driving large vehicles as I lived part-time on a ranch) so I can pack up things like tents, firewood, the beerpong table top in which I'm investing, as well as pumpkins, and other Halloween decor (I am a bit shocked that Frances doesn't decorate for Halloween, but as I have some decor up all year long I'm going to guess I'm actually the weird one in the pair).
I have decided to make still more alterations to my costume. Fortunately, we all know I'm about simplistic crafting so I will simply be doing more cutting and using lots of safety pins (these, by the way, are the two greatest skills you can ever have for creating a Halloween costume, granted a few stitches here and there are helpful at times, but essentially there is not much that cannot be accomplished with a well placed cut and pin).
And because I am so excited about my costume, but cannot bear to tell you what it is without photographs of the whole show, I'm going to leave you with my theme song for the evening.
What do you think my costume will be?
*if your mind leaped to xxx and you aren't celebrating I highly recommend you do - Halloween is the perfect holiday to indulge in our darker sides.
Fortunately, the other lovely ladies had the car perfectly prepped for my return: my cozy afghan in the front seat and the heater on full blast (I feel a bit less hardcore and more like a spoiled duchess at this point since JW had to still drive back in the cold rain). But I'm quite certain I continued to grin for the next 7 hours.
And it was definitely a good thing we didn't ride further. Most of the rest of the trip was made in downpour. I would like to point out that there are a lot of idiots on the road. I cannot understand why on a curvy road in the rain one would feel the need to drive 65 mph (even if it is the speed limit) and I am NOT a grannie driver. I think I was sitting comfortably at 60 and still had people passing me - and I could barley see! But, fortunately we were safe and not at all disappointed when the idiots left us far far behind.
We ended up playing one of my favourite car games which is "famous people" (actually I have no idea what the name of game is I just know how to play). I say a name and the next person has to say a name that begins with the first letter of the last name of my person. Double letters (like Marilyn Manson) reverses the flow.
I normally completely and universally kick ass at this game as I have an encyclopedia (did I just compeletely date myself? Should I say wikipedia?) of non-important famous people cached in my brain. However, I think the LOTS of late nights and lots of drinking and little amounts of sleep and the lack of food fried my brain. I mean, there are more names in the world then Larry that begin with the "L", right? And how in the HELL does every single name Frances and Debi think of BEGIN WITH THE BLOODY LETTER "L"!
It got better after we dug into the munchies, and it was funny to see how after a handful of food items all three of us became much more animated and able to answer in fewer than 6 minutes.
The super good news is by the time we made it back to the "Special Effects Taxidermy" sign the clouds had cleared a little bit and our photo shoot began by my turning down a hilly gravel road and then hiking up the side of the grade to the sign and Frances saying "Just get up on the post." ......
I'm pausing for you to remember how uncoordinated I am...... got it?
Well, I made it up the post. This is me practicing my "cougar pose" (because apparently I am NOT old enough to be a cougar - according to some weird definition - I am only old enough to be a "puma").
And then I was going to get a shot of me sitting on the post....
And finally the dismount:
Damnit woman! I can't even think of an "L" name, how in the hell am I supposed to tell my limbs the easiest way to climb a giant sign advertising exciting dead things?! Sometimes people just expect way too much from me.
Halloween updates:
Being the Saturday morning of Halloween weekend, which we know basically equates to the official "Adult Halloween"* holiday, I have much to be getting on with. I am borrowing a truck from the Choo Choos (isn't that brave and gracious of them - I promise I grew up driving large vehicles as I lived part-time on a ranch) so I can pack up things like tents, firewood, the beerpong table top in which I'm investing, as well as pumpkins, and other Halloween decor (I am a bit shocked that Frances doesn't decorate for Halloween, but as I have some decor up all year long I'm going to guess I'm actually the weird one in the pair).
I have decided to make still more alterations to my costume. Fortunately, we all know I'm about simplistic crafting so I will simply be doing more cutting and using lots of safety pins (these, by the way, are the two greatest skills you can ever have for creating a Halloween costume, granted a few stitches here and there are helpful at times, but essentially there is not much that cannot be accomplished with a well placed cut and pin).
And because I am so excited about my costume, but cannot bear to tell you what it is without photographs of the whole show, I'm going to leave you with my theme song for the evening.
What do you think my costume will be?
*if your mind leaped to xxx and you aren't celebrating I highly recommend you do - Halloween is the perfect holiday to indulge in our darker sides.
29.10.10
Montana Trip: Episode 5
Our heroines survived another amazing event and evening (this time someone other than myself woke with a headache).
Sunday morning proved to be more glorious scenery, but in stark contrast to our drive into Montana. The sky was filled with heavy clouds and over the meadows lurked bits of fog.
I was tempted to go walking through wet fields (and I don't even like being cold and wet), but time did not allow.
Sunday morning proved to be more glorious scenery, but in stark contrast to our drive into Montana. The sky was filled with heavy clouds and over the meadows lurked bits of fog.
I was tempted to go walking through wet fields (and I don't even like being cold and wet), but time did not allow.
28.10.10
Montana Trip: Episode 4
Having left our ladies returning home very early Saturday morning (and maybe awaking with a headache), we are happy to say everyone made it up and was able to relax in proper road trip fashion.
We made a little bit of coffee, did lots of girl talk in our pjs, and even got to watch the most insane of Jill's bunch play in the water.
We made a little bit of coffee, did lots of girl talk in our pjs, and even got to watch the most insane of Jill's bunch play in the water.
(yes, they REALLY went in)
We were treated to amazing homemade Americanos in the family condo, stumbled upon bits of Bridget Jone's Diary II (and drooled over Colin Firth) and then headed back down town to find breakfast. We did a little bit of shopping and then ran into Bob and had a great breakfast with lots more chatting.
Bob had those changes for the script and, of course, the damn hotel's printer wouldn't work and they wouldn't let me use their regular computers to print from because I might have a virus (not very nice of them to accuse a sweet innocent girl like myself). They did recommend the library, with bad directions (again!) and even though the downtown only has about six buildings we couldn't find the damn library because the sign was hidden behind a GIANT TREE.
The really good outcome of the whole downtown experience, however, is I decided to ask Frances to be my life partner (for road trips) and she agreed. And then we went and found some pantyhose and I insisted on paying and Frances said she would think of me every time she wore them and as we walked out the woman at the cashier said in a very knowing tone, "You ladies have a GREAT time tonight!" And I laughed so hard I started crying on the way to the car.
After making sure Jill was all set for her important wedding prep we began our own. As I mentioned, Rebecca's dress had an extreme plunge and I didn't want to fall out, but I didn't want to cover it all up either. I think I managed an appropriate level of shocking cleavage. The dress was a major success! And I'm sorry all I have is this silly camera phone shot, but I'll make sure to post when we get some official wedding photos.
(I actually ended up not wearing my hair pinned back -
I knew it would drive me crazy after hitting the dance floor)
(Me, Debi, Jocelyn, Rebecca, Kean-san)
The ceremony was beautiful. The dinner was yummy and the hosted bar was even better! There was lots and lots and lots and lots of dancing.. so much so that at 11:30 we realized the last shuttle was supposed to have been at 11:00 pm. Fortunately, there were so many of who couldn't stop having a good time we got picked up at 11:45 and we weren't even the last shuttle!
We walked to the bar and met it at the exact time the last shuttle (with Bride and Groom) arrived and so the bartender graciously extended lots of free drinks! Mine, of course, was a margarita and he poured it heavy with the lovely compliment that I was "Smokin' Hot" and would I be staying in my dress all evening. It would have made me blush if I wasn't such a hussy.
(Slim and TL)
If there is one thing we know how to do it's how to throw a party...and drink.
If there are two things we know how to do it's how to throw a party and drink.... and look hot.
If there are three things we know how to do it's how to throw a party and drink and look hot and...
I'll cover it again...*
*if you have no idea what just happened I suggest you undertake immediate education in the Flying Circus
27.10.10
Montana Trip: Episode 3
We've just left the three ladies saying goodbye to their new friends in Missoula (returning accessories, too) and driving an hour and a half to Poulson - fortunately able to follow Frances' cousin.
As you learned in the last episode, we are super skilled navigators, so upon reaching the dark road around the lake we decide it is very important to drive slowly and come to almost a complete stop at every mailbox to check house numbers... we do this until we come upon the ACTUAL house at which point we drive by and I yell, "I think THAT was it!" and we are forced to flip around.
But the second cabin, where we stayed (belonging to Jill's parents) was great. In fact, the basement came equipped with lots of beds and one room with two sets of bunk beds. So I insisted in proper road trip fashion we all had to sleep in the bunk beds. Fortunately, Frances took the top, because wouldn't it have been embarrassing if I fell out?
We were too tired for pillow fights in our underwear or even talking and fell asleep immediately, which is good as we had an early wake up call so we could drive to Big Fork and start wedding prep.
As you learned in the last episode, we are super skilled navigators, so upon reaching the dark road around the lake we decide it is very important to drive slowly and come to almost a complete stop at every mailbox to check house numbers... we do this until we come upon the ACTUAL house at which point we drive by and I yell, "I think THAT was it!" and we are forced to flip around.
But the second cabin, where we stayed (belonging to Jill's parents) was great. In fact, the basement came equipped with lots of beds and one room with two sets of bunk beds. So I insisted in proper road trip fashion we all had to sleep in the bunk beds. Fortunately, Frances took the top, because wouldn't it have been embarrassing if I fell out?
We were too tired for pillow fights in our underwear or even talking and fell asleep immediately, which is good as we had an early wake up call so we could drive to Big Fork and start wedding prep.
(don't ever think getting up early doesn't have its perks)
We headed to the main cabin, almost directly at the water front and enjoyed some more idyllic scenes.
(I would like my hair to be this color)
(probably a good thing I don't live here, because I don't reference The Holy Grail enough)
I drove into Big Fork with Jill and it was great! Our former college president was her officiant and for all our major events Jill put together prompt books which included his scripts. He always had last minute changes and I love that during the drive I retyped them into the wedding script he had sent her off her phone. It also didn't surprise me when later that night he told me he had MORE changes and he'd get them to me (I spent a couple of hours trying to get them printed before the wedding actually). But it makes me chuckle and even tear up a little. Just like old times.
The wedding prep went smoothly and quickly. No one will be surprised to hear Jill's plans were gorgeous and went off without a hitch. We started by de-thorning a lot of roses.
(I can't actually do flower arranging, that's Jill's genius, I just do the grunt work)
So Debi and I headed out to the venue to begin to prettify (although the venue was already gorgeous).
(an almost finished table - still needed candles)
Friday evening we were treated to the family dinner (and open bar) and got to spend lots of time chatting.
(Jill, Debi, me, Bob, Rebecca, and Kean-san)
There is a moment around this picture taking where we are re-telling a story about me accidentally flashing some older male co-workers my panties. Shortly after this picture Jill arrives at the table with one of her brothers, Dirk (one of the fraternal twins), and Bob decides to mention what a shame it was Dirk came to the table so late because he completely missed my purple panties. I'm not sure if that gave the men in Jill's family the wrong impression of me or not. But it was pretty funny.
The hosted bar closed at 8 pm and we headed a few blocks into the tiny down-town to a great bar with live music and got to meet lots more of Jill's siblings. They are a crazy bunch, and I've already warned them I might be crashing some more of their family functions. I don't think we shut the bar down, but I'm pretty sure it was close.
So Friday evening was also a success which involved drinking more beer (not from kiddie cups this time) and dancing (obligatory, at all times you know) and meeting lots of interesting people.
26.10.10
Montana Trip: Episode 2
We left our heroines changing clothes in a brewery parking lot - in the day light. Our gracious host for the event, JW, showed up as we were slipping our shoes on and offered a place to change, but he was obviously too late.
We entered the brewery like we enter every building (through the door), like we owned it. I was pleased with the decor.
After the typical powder room stop to check lipstick and tousle my hair I met Debi at two mini tables we snagged - because the BIG table was taken by a lonely man with a laptop. And suggested we order a pitcher. I'm sure you can imagine the look of horror on my face when Debi replied she had tried that tactic and was told because a taproom can only serve 48 oz. to a person in Montana she had to order the sampler. I was not very happy - at least until the samplers showed up.
We entered the brewery like we enter every building (through the door), like we owned it. I was pleased with the decor.
(when I have Frances' camera I like to pretend I'm a real photog
and try to get artsy shots - sometimes it actually works)
(LOVED these flying moneky demon things)
(my other artsy shot of the evening)
Eight delicious samples of approximately 8 oz (I think) each. My particular favourites were the Schwarzbier (why, oh why, couldn't it have had a "T" in it?) and the Dragon's Breath, of course.
(Doppel Bock was also delicious)
After only a few moments, in which Debi and I eagerly viewed the larger table occupied by one and maybe made a few loud comments about pouncing, the lone man kindly suggested we switch tables. Wasn't that chivalrous?
(obviously we are professionals at car changes, because we look hot)
I continued to drink delicious samples as people arrived and was asked if I would be ordering a full one. I responded to the affirmative, but that until the samples were gone I would be fine. But then more and more people showed up and I followed up Debi's sampler with another. At which point, JW asked, again, if I would be getting a full beer or if I would be sticking to the kiddie cups.
(New friends: JW, Chauncey, LeAnn)
I'm sure you know by now there are challenges I have no desire to fulfill (i.e., I won't go sky diving, I don't care if you mock me), but when it comes to my drinking...well, I just won't have it (this has gotten me into more trouble more times than I can even try to count). So, of course, I ordered an adult sized drink.. and then proceeded to help another alum finish HIS sampler (because they ALSO in Montana stop serving at 8 pm in the taproom).
(Old Friends: Matt, Jennifer, me, Caitlin)
I am happy to report I was not at all drunk, but rather pleasantly carefree and tipsy. As it was 8 p.m. and we were full of beer it was definitely time for dinner. And apparently corned beef egg rolls were in high demand because we all had to follow someone across town to get them. I'm not sure if you're aware, but if the people behind you have NO clue where they are going, especially in the dark, in a city we already know doesn't keep up with street signs so well, do NOT go through the yellow light.
I'm playing on my phone, of course (because there cannot be tipsy lostness without a FB update, right?) and Frances wants me to call JW, which is impossible because I don't have his number, but I did manage to find HER phone and figure out how to work it and then JW began to give us very thorough directions which went something like this, "then you'll go over an overpass; it's like a bridge"...
I'll have you know my immediate response was, "Really? Good lord, how drunk do you think I am" or something like that because I was too tipsy to recall my exact response at this late date. And somehow Fluffy got dragged into the conversation.
JW: "Are there four people in the car?"
TL: "No, three... well, unless you count my teddy bear Fluffy."
JW: ".. Fluffy? Well, does he complete you?"
TL: "Yes, he does." (but you lovely readers probably already knew that)JW: "Well, that's okay then."
Thank goodness we finally made it to the restaurant that served DELICIOUS corned beef egg rolls, so now I understand why we had to go to all the trouble. And they also made pretty good pasties - the dough was a bit lighter than I was expecting, but it came with a Guinness dipping sauce (which I didn't dare try for fear my migraines would make an appearance).
The dinner involved some shared silverware, some dropped silverware, an accessory take over (as in I took over someone's leather wristband because it was cool), and discussions about all sorts of not too important things.
We did, however, have a date with Jill, so we called it a fairly early evening and headed to Poulson...
25.10.10
"The golden orb..." AKA Montana Trip: Episode 1
I love being in a car. Road trips have always been high on my list of things to enjoy. This, I must assume, comes from spending all my childhood Christmas vacations in San Diego.
My parents would pack the car the night before we left - back in the day when we didn't think anything of turning the entire back end of a car into a giant pile of blankets and pillows - so when 3:30 a.m. rolled around they could shepard the three of us bleary eyed and toasty in our pjs through the snow directly into the car. We would spend all day traveling straight through (16 hours). Always stocked with mad libs, those great children's activities pads with the "clear marker" to reveal all sorts of fun things, etc. I don't think it too much to hop into a car for a trip (at least when I have some small amount of money).
Fortunately, I also enjoy driving on road trips and our trips of late (in the lovely prius, AKA Robot, owned by Frances) always allows me some quality drive time. I was in awe of the drive to Montana. I haven't made it since I was 15 or so, and, since I was being distracted by games and books and gameboys, I don't think I paid too much mind to the scenery.
Idaho is beautiful and it only gets better as you get closer to Montana. The trees at this time of year are literally breathtaking. And the sun was out. Everything was lit through an unexpected filter of golden leaves. I could not help thinking of Miss Flora Poste and her "golden orb". We also passed many a "woodshed" but I managed to refrain from screaming, "I saw something nasty in the woodshed!" everytime. Instead we have named them "dead barns", because I'm pretty sure most scary movies have old barns with dead people in them. You're welcome, Frances (let me know the next time you would like me to ruin a picturesque scene for you).
We passed through very small towns (and I'm from a town of 2,000 people so it has to be REALLY small for me to dub it such). My favourite had 260 people with a church as you entered, bars in the middle and a church as you exited. Wonder how many people really attend those churches. We also passed a great sign for "Special Effects Taxidermy", but that's a story for another time.
We ended the drive by getting slightly lost in Missoula because unfortunately we weren't finding much reason to their street names, unlike where I live where the streets are the names of presidents and they are in alphabetical order. By the time I found Idaho (we were looking for Montana) it had changed to some random street name, which I don't recall. BUT I would like to place the blame for our lostness on the CITY as the intersection where we should have turned did NOT even HAVE a sign post. So, being lost was a perfectly reasonable response to this lack of clearly marked streets.
We did manage to end in the brewery parking lot... for an alumni event. And we all know what the rule for events is, right? It's not an event until someone flashes their panties. Well, Montana is one hell of a lucky state because Debi, Frances and I all changed our clothes in/out of the Robot in the brewery parking lot, because that's how we roll.
My parents would pack the car the night before we left - back in the day when we didn't think anything of turning the entire back end of a car into a giant pile of blankets and pillows - so when 3:30 a.m. rolled around they could shepard the three of us bleary eyed and toasty in our pjs through the snow directly into the car. We would spend all day traveling straight through (16 hours). Always stocked with mad libs, those great children's activities pads with the "clear marker" to reveal all sorts of fun things, etc. I don't think it too much to hop into a car for a trip (at least when I have some small amount of money).
Fortunately, I also enjoy driving on road trips and our trips of late (in the lovely prius, AKA Robot, owned by Frances) always allows me some quality drive time. I was in awe of the drive to Montana. I haven't made it since I was 15 or so, and, since I was being distracted by games and books and gameboys, I don't think I paid too much mind to the scenery.
Idaho is beautiful and it only gets better as you get closer to Montana. The trees at this time of year are literally breathtaking. And the sun was out. Everything was lit through an unexpected filter of golden leaves. I could not help thinking of Miss Flora Poste and her "golden orb". We also passed many a "woodshed" but I managed to refrain from screaming, "I saw something nasty in the woodshed!" everytime. Instead we have named them "dead barns", because I'm pretty sure most scary movies have old barns with dead people in them. You're welcome, Frances (let me know the next time you would like me to ruin a picturesque scene for you).
We passed through very small towns (and I'm from a town of 2,000 people so it has to be REALLY small for me to dub it such). My favourite had 260 people with a church as you entered, bars in the middle and a church as you exited. Wonder how many people really attend those churches. We also passed a great sign for "Special Effects Taxidermy", but that's a story for another time.
We ended the drive by getting slightly lost in Missoula because unfortunately we weren't finding much reason to their street names, unlike where I live where the streets are the names of presidents and they are in alphabetical order. By the time I found Idaho (we were looking for Montana) it had changed to some random street name, which I don't recall. BUT I would like to place the blame for our lostness on the CITY as the intersection where we should have turned did NOT even HAVE a sign post. So, being lost was a perfectly reasonable response to this lack of clearly marked streets.
We did manage to end in the brewery parking lot... for an alumni event. And we all know what the rule for events is, right? It's not an event until someone flashes their panties. Well, Montana is one hell of a lucky state because Debi, Frances and I all changed our clothes in/out of the Robot in the brewery parking lot, because that's how we roll.
24.10.10
I Spy
I have returned from the never disappointing road trip. Montana is beautiful and intriguing. I have much to tell, but want to share photos and not all of those are on my camera. So I have decided, as it is still Sunday and you are in need of your latest "I Spy" edition, I will be posting items which will hint about the stories to come.
1. mmmmmmmm beer
from bottlehood's shop
2. Wedding prep
3. Yes it IS required
from trulyvera's shop
4. More? Most definitely.
from jonijames' shop
Had such an amazing trip that I am in need of much sleep.
Sweet slumbers
xo
20.10.10
The Night Before the Big Sky Country
A much needed trip is before me. A mere ten hours away.
Jill is getting married. In Montana. And we are off. Frances, Debi and I (and Rebecca and her husband to meet us there).
I love driving and road trips and am very excited to be going early to help get things underway. Since, well, this is what we do. Events.
Fortunately, after much time ignoring the small issue of what to wear to the actual wedding Rebecca mentioned during our jog this morning that she thought I could fit into a lovely dress she had and wouldn't herself be wearing. It is gorgeous. The only issue is the plunging neck line which is risque even for me.. but some well placed black velvet and I think we shall be good to go.
Whilst doing laundry and slight packing had the girls (Amber, Flo and Sunny) and their boys (Alex, Isaiah, and Gavin) for dinner. A light stir fry. Didn't turn out too badly considering I was the one doing the cooking. We discussed very important things like why the Pyramid Collection catalog is so expensive and what everyone should be for Halloween. I think we came up with some solid ideas.
Since tonight is technically my day to post for Kirsty's Creative Space I feel the need to show a little of what I've been doing...
Like the ever important packing of the suitcase. Alley is making sure I have all the help I need by lying on top of my packing list.
Then there is the ever important bag o'(owl)ies which were commissioned for all the children coming to the wedding. On the road trip the boys will get pirate tags sewn to their wings. The girls all have fun crystals.
And there is the playing with the pretty pretty dress to make sure I have the proper jewelry...
Jill is getting married. In Montana. And we are off. Frances, Debi and I (and Rebecca and her husband to meet us there).
I love driving and road trips and am very excited to be going early to help get things underway. Since, well, this is what we do. Events.
Fortunately, after much time ignoring the small issue of what to wear to the actual wedding Rebecca mentioned during our jog this morning that she thought I could fit into a lovely dress she had and wouldn't herself be wearing. It is gorgeous. The only issue is the plunging neck line which is risque even for me.. but some well placed black velvet and I think we shall be good to go.
Whilst doing laundry and slight packing had the girls (Amber, Flo and Sunny) and their boys (Alex, Isaiah, and Gavin) for dinner. A light stir fry. Didn't turn out too badly considering I was the one doing the cooking. We discussed very important things like why the Pyramid Collection catalog is so expensive and what everyone should be for Halloween. I think we came up with some solid ideas.
Since tonight is technically my day to post for Kirsty's Creative Space I feel the need to show a little of what I've been doing...
And there is the playing with the pretty pretty dress to make sure I have the proper jewelry...
Hoping to keep you posted with Big Sky fun!
xo
19.10.10
Swordplay
Let me set the scene: I am currently in too long for me black sweat pants, my pedometer attached like I'm packing heat, my soft "I heart Vampires" t-shirt with a too big grey cardigan, and a frosty margarita with just a tad too much tequila to take the edge off the sickly sweet mix. Pandora is playing a Lady Gaga station. I've just had to pause to dance to Usher's "DJ's got us falling in love again", and right now Paramore is yelling at me about how good it feels, which is highly appropriate considering I'm trying to get out of all this "Misery Business".
October, typically a time of lots of joy, has been a struggle this year. Looking on the bright side of things has fallen to the way side - but, as you see, I am posting which means TOO much ranting and raving about the dark side is forbidden. As I am setting the scene, however, I cannot fail to mention the person who has become known as "he who must not be named" is recently playing out to be more of an ogre. I find this appropriate as he is living in the dark basement which is beyond my realm of magic (and cleaning).
I have not been functioning at my highest, or even mid-range, levels. I must admit I have been letting the stress of living and working with an ex become a bit like a pick axe in the eye. As someone who has little patience and perhaps a tendency to vehement exclamations, operating with this feeling vibrating through my system has been putting a lot of us on edge. With one ridiculous scatter brain action after the next, however, I have reached the point where it is time to once again take command of my life.
Last night I spent some time being and consulting. I do this best with my lovely crystals and tarot cards. I sat in my refuge (my bedroom) and gathered my thoughts. Gathering thoughts is very difficult. This must be blamed on continuous partial attention. It is not like focusing on a certain thing or pondering a predicament, rather it is the process of putting thoughts away. Thoughts get in the way of being.
After I had a few minutes of peace I brought out the cards and let them familiarize themselves with me in the moment. They spend their life sitting on my crystals at my bedside so they know me well, but it is always courteous and important to allow them time to align.
I, who am so frequently visited by major guides (the high priestess, the moon, tower, etc) was surprised and then amused by the amount of Sword cards. I must admit after getting three (in an 11 card layout) my spirits were sinking (and more, lots more, were to come). Swords are not bad, but they are strong sign posts. A quick note, from http://www.tarotteachings.com/tarot-swords.html, to some of their meanings are:
October, typically a time of lots of joy, has been a struggle this year. Looking on the bright side of things has fallen to the way side - but, as you see, I am posting which means TOO much ranting and raving about the dark side is forbidden. As I am setting the scene, however, I cannot fail to mention the person who has become known as "he who must not be named" is recently playing out to be more of an ogre. I find this appropriate as he is living in the dark basement which is beyond my realm of magic (and cleaning).
I have not been functioning at my highest, or even mid-range, levels. I must admit I have been letting the stress of living and working with an ex become a bit like a pick axe in the eye. As someone who has little patience and perhaps a tendency to vehement exclamations, operating with this feeling vibrating through my system has been putting a lot of us on edge. With one ridiculous scatter brain action after the next, however, I have reached the point where it is time to once again take command of my life.
Last night I spent some time being and consulting. I do this best with my lovely crystals and tarot cards. I sat in my refuge (my bedroom) and gathered my thoughts. Gathering thoughts is very difficult. This must be blamed on continuous partial attention. It is not like focusing on a certain thing or pondering a predicament, rather it is the process of putting thoughts away. Thoughts get in the way of being.
After I had a few minutes of peace I brought out the cards and let them familiarize themselves with me in the moment. They spend their life sitting on my crystals at my bedside so they know me well, but it is always courteous and important to allow them time to align.
I, who am so frequently visited by major guides (the high priestess, the moon, tower, etc) was surprised and then amused by the amount of Sword cards. I must admit after getting three (in an 11 card layout) my spirits were sinking (and more, lots more, were to come). Swords are not bad, but they are strong sign posts. A quick note, from http://www.tarotteachings.com/tarot-swords.html, to some of their meanings are:
- Control
- Clarity
- Decisive
- Analytical
- Forthright
- Intelligence
- Assurance
- Confidence
- Uncertainty
(Pirogoeth from Megatokyo)
18.10.10
Harvest Fest from a 360 perspective
The day spent at Indian Creek Winery's Third Annual Harvest Fest couldn't have been more enjoyable. Wonderful weather, great people, lovely dogs, Delicious wine... well, how about I let you hear it from a true local?
Kuna 360 posted a nice review of the day and you should read about it here....."Channeling My Inner Goddess"
Glad to have been a part of it! Thank you so much to the delightful Tammy for the invite!
Kuna 360 posted a nice review of the day and you should read about it here....."Channeling My Inner Goddess"
Glad to have been a part of it! Thank you so much to the delightful Tammy for the invite!
(OvO)
17.10.10
I Spy
I know you've been waiting anxiously for the latest edition of "I Spy".
Today's theme is based on my favourite animal (and, shockingly, it isn't an owl). I know many people in the world don't understand my deep love for sharks, so I think it important to preface this list by stating I am not in anyway sarcastic about these items. I like all of them... a lot.
2. You know I would totally wear this
hope these great shark pieces have inspired you to give our cold skinned and sharp toothed friends a chance!
Today's theme is based on my favourite animal (and, shockingly, it isn't an owl). I know many people in the world don't understand my deep love for sharks, so I think it important to preface this list by stating I am not in anyway sarcastic about these items. I like all of them... a lot.
1. I love it when two of my favourite things come together
from RadianceArt's shop
2. You know I would totally wear this
from ObeyMyBrain's shop
3. I want to snuggle this very much
from Royalkane's shop
4. Yes, THAT Just happened!
hope these great shark pieces have inspired you to give our cold skinned and sharp toothed friends a chance!
16.10.10
Felt, Felt and more Felt...
I have been invited to be apart of the Indian Creek Winery Harvest Fest this Sunday! I am very excited! There is grape stomping and cork spitting and a taco truck (YUM) and wine (DOUBLE YUM) and now there will also be (owl)ies!
I have been working on new giant (OWL)ies, who still have not arrived in the shop due to factors such as lack of sun for photographing when I am home and general forgetfulness, as well as some regular (owl)ies.
And I have fallen into the holiday trap. I do not like walking into a store and seeing Christmas items out before Halloween has taken place. It takes away from Halloween. To be frank, it pains me. However, as I am not a retail store and some people will only see my wares this one time... well, I couldn't help it. I've gone and made Christmas (owl)ies. But only a few and I still have far more Halloween ones.
I have to admit, the Christmas (owl)ies are quite mood inspiring and it took every ounce of will power not to put in White Christmas (which begins regular rotation along with our Christmas music on November 1). None of them appeal to me so much as the new George the Zombie, but I am also quite proud of the new little grape themed (owl)ie.
The saddest news is I ran out of all my fluff and stuff and must make a trip to the craft store today because the carcasses for the giant (OWL)ies disturb me where the regular ones have never.
I really can't put my finger on it. Perhaps because their eyes are so massive and flat? They look so pretty when filled out. And hopefully I can remember to get pictures up of them when they are more life-like.
I have been working on new giant (OWL)ies, who still have not arrived in the shop due to factors such as lack of sun for photographing when I am home and general forgetfulness, as well as some regular (owl)ies.
And I have fallen into the holiday trap. I do not like walking into a store and seeing Christmas items out before Halloween has taken place. It takes away from Halloween. To be frank, it pains me. However, as I am not a retail store and some people will only see my wares this one time... well, I couldn't help it. I've gone and made Christmas (owl)ies. But only a few and I still have far more Halloween ones.
The saddest news is I ran out of all my fluff and stuff and must make a trip to the craft store today because the carcasses for the giant (OWL)ies disturb me where the regular ones have never.
15.10.10
Time Turner Needed
Playing catch up is all I ever seem to do these days, isn't it? In fact, this is a bit about how late we got our Halloween decor up (at least what isn't always out) and this is a week after we did that!
We tend to run on Hogwarts time around here. No one should be surprised. Once the calendar hits September first our Halloween boxes are out and things are being put into place. This year we managed to be 6 weeks behind. That's half the term! We are so close to failing exams, but never fear we are planning such a stellar Halloween extravaganza I think we'll make passing grades.
As always we have to dress up for Halloween decorating. Aurora, surprisingly, didn't want anything too extreme, so we made her up to be Abby Scuito.
She was just as helpful and amazing as Abby, too, and did a lot of dusting as we rearranged furniture and bric-a-brac.
We have put our decor taken from Target last year after Halloween to good use. The Skelanimals are too cute!
I managed to part with some of my silver (as in, I packed some of it away) and re-do the mantel piece...
We have turned grandma Jinny's writing desk (which Chelsea is letting me store) into a Halloween mini bar (oh the irony). It's wonderful because Aurora can easily make herself water-tinis whenever she wants.
I sometimes forget how much fun candles can be. What with my lack of attention to a lot of things and Alley Squeakerkins and Aurora I don't often put candles about any more.
We found another hat and a couple of great sparkly candelabras at Target and they will most likely end up as normal decor.
But my FAVOURITE Halloween inspired piece is from Debi (who does lovely vinyl, like the quote in the picture above, at Off the Wall Lettering). She told me she had found a mirror and put a black spider on it (her spider is my favourite vinyl piece and I have some other things with the spider on it) and a black ribbon. I instantly made her swear to let me buy it and created the best wall feature!
I have never been happy with the entry hallway which is very visible from my front room because I could never find something that fit in the space well.... until now! I got the mirror from Debi and stole a few mirrors out of other areas in the house and added a few of my family pictures and TA-DA!
I obviously have two spots left to fill (and the larger pictures at the bottom are set on the floor, but I think I'll let them live there). But I'm absolutely in love with it!
You are sure to hear lots more about Halloween! I have finished my costume (which was really just some simple alterations -like safety pins and cutting) and bought the perfect accessories. Aurora wants to be a vampyre so I'll be doing something soon for her. And we have a giant Halloween party planned (but not here, oddly).
Are you ready for Halloween?
We tend to run on Hogwarts time around here. No one should be surprised. Once the calendar hits September first our Halloween boxes are out and things are being put into place. This year we managed to be 6 weeks behind. That's half the term! We are so close to failing exams, but never fear we are planning such a stellar Halloween extravaganza I think we'll make passing grades.
As always we have to dress up for Halloween decorating. Aurora, surprisingly, didn't want anything too extreme, so we made her up to be Abby Scuito.
She was just as helpful and amazing as Abby, too, and did a lot of dusting as we rearranged furniture and bric-a-brac.
We have put our decor taken from Target last year after Halloween to good use. The Skelanimals are too cute!
I managed to part with some of my silver (as in, I packed some of it away) and re-do the mantel piece...
We found another hat and a couple of great sparkly candelabras at Target and they will most likely end up as normal decor.
But my FAVOURITE Halloween inspired piece is from Debi (who does lovely vinyl, like the quote in the picture above, at Off the Wall Lettering). She told me she had found a mirror and put a black spider on it (her spider is my favourite vinyl piece and I have some other things with the spider on it) and a black ribbon. I instantly made her swear to let me buy it and created the best wall feature!
I have never been happy with the entry hallway which is very visible from my front room because I could never find something that fit in the space well.... until now! I got the mirror from Debi and stole a few mirrors out of other areas in the house and added a few of my family pictures and TA-DA!
You are sure to hear lots more about Halloween! I have finished my costume (which was really just some simple alterations -like safety pins and cutting) and bought the perfect accessories. Aurora wants to be a vampyre so I'll be doing something soon for her. And we have a giant Halloween party planned (but not here, oddly).
Are you ready for Halloween?
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