Hey folks~
I know...where have you been????????? I've been busy....take a peek at the Summer Kitty and I had!!!!
This is a cool program I learned about at my teaching job that I'm using with my kids...so I thought I'd share with y'all!!
http://www.slide.com/r/TlDBbTOh3z-jHuXgqJHS-tQnYyRGOuOf?previous_view=mscd_embedded_url&view=original
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
arm, arm, leg, leg...ok, I'm good.
Have you ever seen on the Discovery Channel or PBS those documentaries about the desert or the "law of the jungle", and have seen those buzzards tearing at carrion with their teeth, nudging each other for that succluent piece of rotting flesh?
I believe I just witnessed that at Festival Foods.
Today is their quad-annual One Day Meat Sale. Yes, caps required. It's a big event. I wasn't even going for the meat sale, since there wasn't anything on sale that I needed, but we did need milk, eggs, fruit, and a large vat of salsa (for the family reunion this weekend). So, because fresh fruit is on sale at the Fest this week, I headed there.
Because I was there, I just made a pass through the meat department, just to see what's up.
I'm lucky I made it out with all my limbs.
There were people pushing, shoving, moving others carts, crowding around the meat bunkers, hunched over the Big Packs of Octoberfest Brats and Chuck Roasts like the aforementioned buzzards. I actually saw one grandmotherly figure (not the small, fragile grandma, I'm talking the big hipped, big busted steel grey permed hair type grandma) rip one pack of chuck roasts out of another woman's hands, saying..." I had my eye on that pack first!!!". I saw another couple with 5 packs of chuck roasts in their cart, debating if they should get 5 more. I should mention that each pack had 2 roasts in them, and I'd say that each roast goes about 3 lbs. That's ALOT of Hot Beef Sandwiches and pot roasts.
I grabbed my one lone pack of cheddy-brats and scurried away. The Farmer Family likes their cheese mixed in with their meat. :)
When I was checking out I mentioned to the check out lady that the meat sale was already in very full swing...she said that people show up at 7:00, an hour before it starts, waiting for the butchers to say..."Ok, Go Ahead". Now, I love my meat sale as much as the next carnivore, but that's just rediculous. It's just meat. It will go on sale again, and todays' sale goes until 8 pm. I think you'll get your whole trimmed tenderloin. They wouldn't be on mega sale if they only had 10 tenderloins in the back cooler.
Good times at the Fest.
I believe I just witnessed that at Festival Foods.
Today is their quad-annual One Day Meat Sale. Yes, caps required. It's a big event. I wasn't even going for the meat sale, since there wasn't anything on sale that I needed, but we did need milk, eggs, fruit, and a large vat of salsa (for the family reunion this weekend). So, because fresh fruit is on sale at the Fest this week, I headed there.
Because I was there, I just made a pass through the meat department, just to see what's up.
I'm lucky I made it out with all my limbs.
There were people pushing, shoving, moving others carts, crowding around the meat bunkers, hunched over the Big Packs of Octoberfest Brats and Chuck Roasts like the aforementioned buzzards. I actually saw one grandmotherly figure (not the small, fragile grandma, I'm talking the big hipped, big busted steel grey permed hair type grandma) rip one pack of chuck roasts out of another woman's hands, saying..." I had my eye on that pack first!!!". I saw another couple with 5 packs of chuck roasts in their cart, debating if they should get 5 more. I should mention that each pack had 2 roasts in them, and I'd say that each roast goes about 3 lbs. That's ALOT of Hot Beef Sandwiches and pot roasts.
I grabbed my one lone pack of cheddy-brats and scurried away. The Farmer Family likes their cheese mixed in with their meat. :)
When I was checking out I mentioned to the check out lady that the meat sale was already in very full swing...she said that people show up at 7:00, an hour before it starts, waiting for the butchers to say..."Ok, Go Ahead". Now, I love my meat sale as much as the next carnivore, but that's just rediculous. It's just meat. It will go on sale again, and todays' sale goes until 8 pm. I think you'll get your whole trimmed tenderloin. They wouldn't be on mega sale if they only had 10 tenderloins in the back cooler.
Good times at the Fest.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
A bloggy hiatus
I just haven't been feeling like writing lately....the summer has gotten super busy lately and amongst all other things, blogging hasn't been high priority. here's a few updates:
*the fair went well. I was happy with my results, and i"m hoping next year I'll be able to enter more items of the craft variety.
*My cheesecake is published....check out this link to get there....and good luck making the recipe if you try it out!
*I'm going to be on German TV! A German production company is sending over their version of Emeril and he's going to tour the USA, going to mom and pop restaurants and visiting cooking competitions. The company contacted the Cheesefest office and asked if they could contribute to the show....the office sent them my name and info, and we've been in "negotiations" for Jumbo (that's his name...he stands 6'10'' and weighs in at 340 lbs....BIG guy.) to come to my home and bake with me. I'm so excited. This will be occuring in the spring sometime. Wahoo! I'm now one step closer to being that witty History Channel documentarian. Just gotta get that doctorate and fancy title from a prestigious university.........
*The garden is growing leaps and bounds. I had my first sauteed zuchinni for lunch...tasted like summer. Yum.
*The new carpet has been ordered and I'm working on emptying the room so we can tear up the old stuff.
That's about it. I will probably keep on hiatus for a while, so for my dedicated readers, dont' expect much for a few days or so. Just so you know.,...I didn't get swallowed into the new silo, just being busy....
Catch ya later!
*the fair went well. I was happy with my results, and i"m hoping next year I'll be able to enter more items of the craft variety.
*My cheesecake is published....check out this link to get there....and good luck making the recipe if you try it out!
*I'm going to be on German TV! A German production company is sending over their version of Emeril and he's going to tour the USA, going to mom and pop restaurants and visiting cooking competitions. The company contacted the Cheesefest office and asked if they could contribute to the show....the office sent them my name and info, and we've been in "negotiations" for Jumbo (that's his name...he stands 6'10'' and weighs in at 340 lbs....BIG guy.) to come to my home and bake with me. I'm so excited. This will be occuring in the spring sometime. Wahoo! I'm now one step closer to being that witty History Channel documentarian. Just gotta get that doctorate and fancy title from a prestigious university.........
*The garden is growing leaps and bounds. I had my first sauteed zuchinni for lunch...tasted like summer. Yum.
*The new carpet has been ordered and I'm working on emptying the room so we can tear up the old stuff.
That's about it. I will probably keep on hiatus for a while, so for my dedicated readers, dont' expect much for a few days or so. Just so you know.,...I didn't get swallowed into the new silo, just being busy....
Catch ya later!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Thumbs Up and Down
Thumbs Up: To today being Judging day at the county fair! I wait all year, Caroline Ingalls style, for the fair to come around. I've got my muffins in the oven and my bread rising. I also am working the fair this year in the Open Class pavillion, so I get to suck in the fair all day today! Joyous.
Thumbs Down: To me being lazy and not feeling like running all the way to Green Bay last night to pick up a jar of The Godfather's corn relish to enter in the fair. I said I would bring it, but miscommunication, and more realistic, laziness and forgetfulness on my part kept me from remembering to pick up a jar every other time I was in GB this past month. Oh well, his pickle relish is also being entered, so it's somewhat ok. But in my defense, I had a bad headache last night and Kitty was somewhat crabby, so the ride looked less appealing every minute that passed.
Thumbs Up: to looking forward to Grammy's birthday party this weekend at Bay Beach! Kitty will be so excited to be back there for more fun and hijinks! And a Picnic! Kitty loves to eat outside...what an adventure!
Thumbs Down: To only 1 more month of summer vacation. boo hiss.
Thumbs Up: To my dr. being super proactive and ordering a bizillion tests to figure out why Kitty is still an only child. He's leaping on this infertility train and said he will figure out why I keep miscarrying. 3 in 10 months is not OK in either of our books.
Thumbs Down: To have to have 7 vials of blood taken tomorrow for these bizillion tests. My veins seem to know when to inconviently shut down, so I'm sure tomorrow will be lots o fun.
Thumbs Up: To the ring bologna I made on the grill last night. My dishwasher is broken, so i've become pretty inventive when it comes to makeing meals outside. Less dishes. So, if you like ring bologna (Navy girl? I'm sure you do..it's like a giant hot dog!!!) try it on the grill!
Thumbs Down: To the lack of rain....Kitty doesn't like to play outside on the grass because it's so dry. That limits our things to do outside. But her playhouse has been brought onto the patio, so she's happy going in and out of that door.
Kitty's Thumbs Up: To having toaster waffles back in the house. We did a much needed Sam's Run on Monday and we now have more toaster waffles in our house. I know I could have purchased them at the grocery, but when you pay over $2 for one box when I could pay $7.50 for 8 boxes, I figure she can wait until I Get to Sam's. But she's now happily eating breakfast...all is good in our worlds.
Thumbs Down: To me being lazy and not feeling like running all the way to Green Bay last night to pick up a jar of The Godfather's corn relish to enter in the fair. I said I would bring it, but miscommunication, and more realistic, laziness and forgetfulness on my part kept me from remembering to pick up a jar every other time I was in GB this past month. Oh well, his pickle relish is also being entered, so it's somewhat ok. But in my defense, I had a bad headache last night and Kitty was somewhat crabby, so the ride looked less appealing every minute that passed.
Thumbs Up: to looking forward to Grammy's birthday party this weekend at Bay Beach! Kitty will be so excited to be back there for more fun and hijinks! And a Picnic! Kitty loves to eat outside...what an adventure!
Thumbs Down: To only 1 more month of summer vacation. boo hiss.
Thumbs Up: To my dr. being super proactive and ordering a bizillion tests to figure out why Kitty is still an only child. He's leaping on this infertility train and said he will figure out why I keep miscarrying. 3 in 10 months is not OK in either of our books.
Thumbs Down: To have to have 7 vials of blood taken tomorrow for these bizillion tests. My veins seem to know when to inconviently shut down, so I'm sure tomorrow will be lots o fun.
Thumbs Up: To the ring bologna I made on the grill last night. My dishwasher is broken, so i've become pretty inventive when it comes to makeing meals outside. Less dishes. So, if you like ring bologna (Navy girl? I'm sure you do..it's like a giant hot dog!!!) try it on the grill!
Thumbs Down: To the lack of rain....Kitty doesn't like to play outside on the grass because it's so dry. That limits our things to do outside. But her playhouse has been brought onto the patio, so she's happy going in and out of that door.
Kitty's Thumbs Up: To having toaster waffles back in the house. We did a much needed Sam's Run on Monday and we now have more toaster waffles in our house. I know I could have purchased them at the grocery, but when you pay over $2 for one box when I could pay $7.50 for 8 boxes, I figure she can wait until I Get to Sam's. But she's now happily eating breakfast...all is good in our worlds.
Monday, July 13, 2009
The Big 100! Let's throw a party!
Can you believe it? I made it to 1oo posts!!!
I know I'm not the most consistent blogger in the blogsophere, but it's a good time!
Since i've put in that feed of who reads my blog, I've been shocked to see that I have readers from all over the nation, and the world!!! I didn't think I had near that many readers, especially since I don't have anything real world shaking or madly exciting to write about!!!
So, In honor of this 100th post, I'd like people to just make a comment in my comment form and tell me where you are from and how you found my little blog. You don't have to continually comment on every post---goodness knows I'm one of the worst lurkers out there---but just pop in once and say Hey! We'll throw a little party via comments!
*********
My information for the fair came in the mail on Saturday. We're getting all ready for the big week next week! Woohoo!
********
Kitty has a new word...Elmo. And she's also learning how to beg. She says "Elmo???" in the most sad voice when she wants to watch her Sesame Street video, and she blinks her eyes and pouts. She quickly escalates to very MAD when Elmo doesn't appear on the screen. Other big advancements: She learned what the elephant says and what the monkey does. She's a one woman zoo.
*******
They finished the new silo. It looks very sharp, all 90 feet of it. it's now currently 50% full of haylage...Farmer's almost done with the 2nd crop of hay.
******
Yesterday we took a family trip to Bay Beach. I didn't know if Kitty would like the little kid rides, but she LOVED them. She rode the ladybugs, the train, the cars, the jeeps, and the planes. It was a surprise trip from Daddy, so I didn't bring my camera with us, so I guess we'll have to go back soon. We then went to culvers, where we discovered that Kitty LOVES chocolate custard. She's definitely my girl, and Navygirl's good friend.
*******
We picked the first of the green beans from the garden. We'll be swimming in crops soon.
********
Don't forget to join the Big 100 Comment Party in the comment box....it's lots of fun!
I know I'm not the most consistent blogger in the blogsophere, but it's a good time!
Since i've put in that feed of who reads my blog, I've been shocked to see that I have readers from all over the nation, and the world!!! I didn't think I had near that many readers, especially since I don't have anything real world shaking or madly exciting to write about!!!
So, In honor of this 100th post, I'd like people to just make a comment in my comment form and tell me where you are from and how you found my little blog. You don't have to continually comment on every post---goodness knows I'm one of the worst lurkers out there---but just pop in once and say Hey! We'll throw a little party via comments!
*********
My information for the fair came in the mail on Saturday. We're getting all ready for the big week next week! Woohoo!
********
Kitty has a new word...Elmo. And she's also learning how to beg. She says "Elmo???" in the most sad voice when she wants to watch her Sesame Street video, and she blinks her eyes and pouts. She quickly escalates to very MAD when Elmo doesn't appear on the screen. Other big advancements: She learned what the elephant says and what the monkey does. She's a one woman zoo.
*******
They finished the new silo. It looks very sharp, all 90 feet of it. it's now currently 50% full of haylage...Farmer's almost done with the 2nd crop of hay.
******
Yesterday we took a family trip to Bay Beach. I didn't know if Kitty would like the little kid rides, but she LOVED them. She rode the ladybugs, the train, the cars, the jeeps, and the planes. It was a surprise trip from Daddy, so I didn't bring my camera with us, so I guess we'll have to go back soon. We then went to culvers, where we discovered that Kitty LOVES chocolate custard. She's definitely my girl, and Navygirl's good friend.
*******
We picked the first of the green beans from the garden. We'll be swimming in crops soon.
********
Don't forget to join the Big 100 Comment Party in the comment box....it's lots of fun!
Monday, July 6, 2009
The 4th of July update and tidbits
Kitty's 4th of July Extravangaza went quite well. Grammy, Poppy, Auntie Mousie and hubby, and the BabyBear came, along with one of my cousin's and her family. We had a BBQ, croquet game, bonfire, and fireworks show. It was a very nice party. The weather was great and all babies were well behaved. Kitty even got a tan line on her tootsies from her cupcake sandals, which is so cute. I was woken up at 6:15 am on the 4th by my folks, calling with questions about the Declaration of Independence and the Founding Fathers. Nothing like giving an impromptu history lesson when you haven't even opened your eyes yet.
My question for them: Why the buzzard are you even thinking deep thoughts about the founding of our nation at 6:15 am??? I know it was Independence Day, but at 6:15 am, you should be watching the early news and groping for your coffee. Maybe reading the paper.
*****
Yesterday we went to a parade in Maribel, a small farming community where my Mum grew up. it was basically a tractor parade, but we enjoyed ourselves. Kitty loved it. She likes to go anywhere where she can wave to people. So, parades are about as great as the grocery store. Good times.
*****
Today Kitty went to her first pool party (man, she's busy! party, parade, pool party....what a social butterfly!) with her boyfriends, G and E, the babies of my two best friends. She had another great time floating around in her ladybug floatie. I enjoyed hanging out with my buddies.
*****
I'm so angry. There's a bar in Crivitz, WI (small northwoods town) who was denied a liquor license, and so he's flying the American flag upside down in protest. How stupid. What respect do you have for our country to brazenly show such disrespect? I know, freedom of speech, but still. On the 4th of July? Maybe it's my history background, knowing what it took throughout the last 250 years to be able to fly that flag freely, but that is just so terrible. Shame on you. SHAME. It make me seethe.
*****
The Godfather made 24 pints of Strawberry Jam with his berries. He's going to be eating jam until the end of time.
*****
NavyGirl and Maverick are in the process of buying a new house in the northwest. It's beautiful. You must head over to her blog to check out the pictures. I'm so jealous...mainly of her kitchen. :) But it's a good jealous. I'm happy for her.
****
I had a dream last night that President Obama picked our house to have dinner with "the common folk". It was SO REALISTIC....I'm still somewhat pondering if it actually happened or not. PS: I made steaks, baked potatoes, and mushrooms. He walked around our property with Farmer and checked out Farmer's convertable and my garden. He was in just his dress shirt and kahki's, very casual. Kitty was very shy. I didn't have my hair done. SO REAL.
*****
That's about it. No news yet about the cheesecake publishing, but I'm checking the website every so often. I'll be sure to let people know ASAP.
My question for them: Why the buzzard are you even thinking deep thoughts about the founding of our nation at 6:15 am??? I know it was Independence Day, but at 6:15 am, you should be watching the early news and groping for your coffee. Maybe reading the paper.
*****
Yesterday we went to a parade in Maribel, a small farming community where my Mum grew up. it was basically a tractor parade, but we enjoyed ourselves. Kitty loved it. She likes to go anywhere where she can wave to people. So, parades are about as great as the grocery store. Good times.
*****
Today Kitty went to her first pool party (man, she's busy! party, parade, pool party....what a social butterfly!) with her boyfriends, G and E, the babies of my two best friends. She had another great time floating around in her ladybug floatie. I enjoyed hanging out with my buddies.
*****
I'm so angry. There's a bar in Crivitz, WI (small northwoods town) who was denied a liquor license, and so he's flying the American flag upside down in protest. How stupid. What respect do you have for our country to brazenly show such disrespect? I know, freedom of speech, but still. On the 4th of July? Maybe it's my history background, knowing what it took throughout the last 250 years to be able to fly that flag freely, but that is just so terrible. Shame on you. SHAME. It make me seethe.
*****
The Godfather made 24 pints of Strawberry Jam with his berries. He's going to be eating jam until the end of time.
*****
NavyGirl and Maverick are in the process of buying a new house in the northwest. It's beautiful. You must head over to her blog to check out the pictures. I'm so jealous...mainly of her kitchen. :) But it's a good jealous. I'm happy for her.
****
I had a dream last night that President Obama picked our house to have dinner with "the common folk". It was SO REALISTIC....I'm still somewhat pondering if it actually happened or not. PS: I made steaks, baked potatoes, and mushrooms. He walked around our property with Farmer and checked out Farmer's convertable and my garden. He was in just his dress shirt and kahki's, very casual. Kitty was very shy. I didn't have my hair done. SO REAL.
*****
That's about it. No news yet about the cheesecake publishing, but I'm checking the website every so often. I'll be sure to let people know ASAP.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
today I....
....Picked over 20 lbs of strawberries in order to teach The Godfather how to make his own jam. Not freezer jam, mind you, but actual processed shelf stable jam. It will be an adventure.
....cleaned my whole house in order for the exterminator to come tomorrow.
....did what feels like 1000 loads of laundry that I now need to fold.
....what a day.
....cleaned my whole house in order for the exterminator to come tomorrow.
....did what feels like 1000 loads of laundry that I now need to fold.
....what a day.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
BUT THE BIG UPDATE IS....
....and I had to keep this one for it's own post.....
My newest cheesecake recipe is going to be published on msn.com's food and entertaining website, www.delish.com. I got contacted by the food editor to get my permission and to ask for more information about my cooking and other recipes. Very exciting. This is the 2nd recipe that I've had published. My first recipe was in Midwest Living magazine.
I'll be sure to post the link to the page when I get notification that it's online!
Look out Rachael Ray....I'm hot on your heels, ready to take your spot as Queen of TV Cooking!
My newest cheesecake recipe is going to be published on msn.com's food and entertaining website, www.delish.com. I got contacted by the food editor to get my permission and to ask for more information about my cooking and other recipes. Very exciting. This is the 2nd recipe that I've had published. My first recipe was in Midwest Living magazine.
I'll be sure to post the link to the page when I get notification that it's online!
Look out Rachael Ray....I'm hot on your heels, ready to take your spot as Queen of TV Cooking!
done with festing
Yesterday Farmer and I went back to summerfest for his birthday present...George Strait tickets. Another excellent show. We had alot of fun. It rained a bit at the beginning of the show, but it wasn't that bad.
Kitty went to Grammy and Poppy's while we were in Brew City. She went to day care in the AM, and then Poppy picked her up. She was so excited to have Poppy in her classroom!
But now we are done festing and are gearing up for the rest of the summer.
*****
Other updates:
Kitty's hosting her 2nd Annual 4th of July Extravaganza on Saturday. So I'm starting to get the house together and plan my menu. Kitty's way of helping is to hang out in her pack n play and not make a mess. :)
We are getting a new silo built on the farm. Yesterday they put the roof on and now they are starting with the rest. Yep, they build it from the top down....they keep jacking it up until the get the entire length. It's pretty cool to watch.
The exterminator is finally coming on Thursday. We have an ant and silverfish problem. I know. Gross. I keep my cupboards clean, the floors swept, the dust to a minimum, but still, ants and silverfish. I just can't keep them out! 7:30 AM on Thursday can't come soon enough.
Kitty went to Grammy and Poppy's while we were in Brew City. She went to day care in the AM, and then Poppy picked her up. She was so excited to have Poppy in her classroom!
But now we are done festing and are gearing up for the rest of the summer.
*****
Other updates:
Kitty's hosting her 2nd Annual 4th of July Extravaganza on Saturday. So I'm starting to get the house together and plan my menu. Kitty's way of helping is to hang out in her pack n play and not make a mess. :)
We are getting a new silo built on the farm. Yesterday they put the roof on and now they are starting with the rest. Yep, they build it from the top down....they keep jacking it up until the get the entire length. It's pretty cool to watch.
The exterminator is finally coming on Thursday. We have an ant and silverfish problem. I know. Gross. I keep my cupboards clean, the floors swept, the dust to a minimum, but still, ants and silverfish. I just can't keep them out! 7:30 AM on Thursday can't come soon enough.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
The afterglow.....
Of my concert outing.
I bet some of my dedicated readers were wondering if I actually did sneak my way into Bon Jovi's suitcase....alas, he did not call my name out of the 22,000 ish people at the Marcus Ampetheater at Summerfest on Thursday. So, I'm NOT in London with him and Richie Sambora mixing his new CD. I'm back at home, being the housewife and Mumma I normally am.
But it was an amazing night.
He just puts on such a good show! The energy and fun is awesome. The band's not on tour right now, so they didn't have an exact set of music....they seemed to kind of play from the cuff. It was very fun. A great mix of old and new music. We danced and sang through a 2 hour show. And then fought for an hour to get out of the parking lot. :)
So, I got home, lighter in the wallet, but the proud new owner of a vintage looking Bon Jovi t-shirt and a calendar that i'm going to cut the calendar part off and put all the different pictures around my classroom. my other concert posters are in there as well (only because I don't think Farmer would appreciate a Bon Jovi poster hanging over our marriage bed. :)
If he came to the area again tomorrow, I'd go again.
Because his music is just that good.
And he's just that hot. :)
I bet some of my dedicated readers were wondering if I actually did sneak my way into Bon Jovi's suitcase....alas, he did not call my name out of the 22,000 ish people at the Marcus Ampetheater at Summerfest on Thursday. So, I'm NOT in London with him and Richie Sambora mixing his new CD. I'm back at home, being the housewife and Mumma I normally am.
But it was an amazing night.
He just puts on such a good show! The energy and fun is awesome. The band's not on tour right now, so they didn't have an exact set of music....they seemed to kind of play from the cuff. It was very fun. A great mix of old and new music. We danced and sang through a 2 hour show. And then fought for an hour to get out of the parking lot. :)
So, I got home, lighter in the wallet, but the proud new owner of a vintage looking Bon Jovi t-shirt and a calendar that i'm going to cut the calendar part off and put all the different pictures around my classroom. my other concert posters are in there as well (only because I don't think Farmer would appreciate a Bon Jovi poster hanging over our marriage bed. :)
If he came to the area again tomorrow, I'd go again.
Because his music is just that good.
And he's just that hot. :)
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Sing with me now!
(to the tune of that conga line song....just follow the beat...we all know the tune)
Tomorrow is Bon Jovi!
Tomorrow is Bon Jovi!
Tomorrow Is Bon Jovi!
TOMORROW IS BON JOVI!!!
I have a cute outfit!
I have a cute outfit!
Thank you God for Kohls!
I have a cute outfit!
Tomorrow in Milwaukee!
Tomorrow is Bon Jovi!
Tomorrow in Milwaukee!
Tomorrow is Bon Jovi!
****I'll be sure to post a play by play review on Friday---Stay tuned!*****
Tomorrow is Bon Jovi!
Tomorrow is Bon Jovi!
Tomorrow Is Bon Jovi!
TOMORROW IS BON JOVI!!!
I have a cute outfit!
I have a cute outfit!
Thank you God for Kohls!
I have a cute outfit!
Tomorrow in Milwaukee!
Tomorrow is Bon Jovi!
Tomorrow in Milwaukee!
Tomorrow is Bon Jovi!
****I'll be sure to post a play by play review on Friday---Stay tuned!*****
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Historygirlie's Top Ten: Father's Day Style
And now, it's time for HistoryGirlie's Top Ten: Why I Love My Dad.....
10. He genuinely loves our mother. We can see his respect for his wife in everything he does. That is the most important thing he taught us...to love your spouse and show your love. He's a quiet man...doesn't say much...but his actions spoke louder than words. My aunts always say..."Marry a man like Poppy, and you'll live like a queen". They weren't kidding. He's an amazing husband.
9. He has a polo shirt that has charcoal grills, hamburgers, and hot dogs on it. He only wears it on the 4th of July...it's charming.
8. He took us on 3 big trips in the Van-O-Ram when we were kids. Florida, Nashville, and Washington DC. He was more excited than we were. We loved those trips, even though we were in the Van. He and I plan on taking a trip to follow Lewis and Clark some day. They are our favorite explorers. We'd also love to follow Laura Ingalls Wilder's paths. He just loves to travel and see new things. If he could, he'd spend every summer weekend in Minaqua in the Northwoods. He also loves the northwoods. I guess he basically loves any place that has lots of water and lots of trees.
7. He loves going to the landfill, Sam's Club, and getting his oil changed. All three are big events in his life. He calls us to tell us about his big day if he's going to any of these three places.
6. He takes excellent care of his father, who's recently been diagnosed with Alzeheimer's or Dementia. He goes out to their house 2-3 times a week to make sure all is ok.
5. He would take off work to go to our big events at school. Even if we weren't guaranteed to play in the big crosstown rival game, he would be in the stands cheering us on. I figure he spent 16 years sitting in the bleachers from when I started to when my sister ended.
4. He took us camping to Jellystone and up north when we were little. He only got one weekend off a month from the mill, and in the summer he spent it with us at the campground. I can almost guarantee that my brother and sister can agree~camping are some of the best memories we have from growing up.
3. He taught us to love the water. We would go to Sand Bay Beach in Door County in the summer, and he'd spend hours just staring out at the water looking for "Ocean Going Vessels". sometimes he'd bring a flashlight at night to see if they were out at night. Now we all keep an eye out for big ships when we're near Lake Michigan or the Bay of Green Bay.
2. He felt bad that he had to work the Southern Swing shift at the paper mill when we were little. He wasn't home at normal times, but when he was, he was 100% DAD. we would have waffles for breakfast when others were having cereal when he worked 3-11; there would be snacks on the counter when we'd get home from school when he worked days, and when he worked nights...amazing suppers and homework help before he went to sleep before work. And, when he wasn't home? Then....our stuffed animals would be set up in funny scenarios when we'd get home or he'd had started on amazing paper-mache projects that he liked to help us make. One time, dad and I made a dinosaur out of a bleach bottle and hanger, and he was sitting in a cardboard pool, complete with trees. It was amazing. But the best thing he did was create a flash card tape. One day he came home and Dad was at work. During the day he had set up the video camera and taped himself going through the all four sets of flashcards so Mom didnt' have to when she was home alone with us. Just thinking of all that love makes my heart smile.
AND....although I could go on forever about my awesome Pappy....
#1: He is the best Grandpa there is. He doesn't flinch when I ask him if he can watch Kitty. When I was struggling with severe post partum depression, he'd just randomly show up to watch Kitty so I could relax or do some laundry or sit in a sitz bath. He loves to take Kitty to Bay Beach or run errands. He's been known to buy little treats because Kitty might like some Animal crackers some day. Kitty likes to march around his dining room table, so he found a John Phillip Sousa CD to march to. Recently, he asks to take Kitty on sleepovers, because he likes to see her all sleepy in the morning. The love he feels for Kitty is so apparent in everything he does.
So, readers, if you love your dad, let him know it. Although I can bet that my dad is better than your dad. :) My dad's the best. The best, Jerry, the Best!!! (He also loves to watch Seinfeld, and he quotes it all the time....it's not annoying, but rather endearing.)
10. He genuinely loves our mother. We can see his respect for his wife in everything he does. That is the most important thing he taught us...to love your spouse and show your love. He's a quiet man...doesn't say much...but his actions spoke louder than words. My aunts always say..."Marry a man like Poppy, and you'll live like a queen". They weren't kidding. He's an amazing husband.
9. He has a polo shirt that has charcoal grills, hamburgers, and hot dogs on it. He only wears it on the 4th of July...it's charming.
8. He took us on 3 big trips in the Van-O-Ram when we were kids. Florida, Nashville, and Washington DC. He was more excited than we were. We loved those trips, even though we were in the Van. He and I plan on taking a trip to follow Lewis and Clark some day. They are our favorite explorers. We'd also love to follow Laura Ingalls Wilder's paths. He just loves to travel and see new things. If he could, he'd spend every summer weekend in Minaqua in the Northwoods. He also loves the northwoods. I guess he basically loves any place that has lots of water and lots of trees.
7. He loves going to the landfill, Sam's Club, and getting his oil changed. All three are big events in his life. He calls us to tell us about his big day if he's going to any of these three places.
6. He takes excellent care of his father, who's recently been diagnosed with Alzeheimer's or Dementia. He goes out to their house 2-3 times a week to make sure all is ok.
5. He would take off work to go to our big events at school. Even if we weren't guaranteed to play in the big crosstown rival game, he would be in the stands cheering us on. I figure he spent 16 years sitting in the bleachers from when I started to when my sister ended.
4. He took us camping to Jellystone and up north when we were little. He only got one weekend off a month from the mill, and in the summer he spent it with us at the campground. I can almost guarantee that my brother and sister can agree~camping are some of the best memories we have from growing up.
3. He taught us to love the water. We would go to Sand Bay Beach in Door County in the summer, and he'd spend hours just staring out at the water looking for "Ocean Going Vessels". sometimes he'd bring a flashlight at night to see if they were out at night. Now we all keep an eye out for big ships when we're near Lake Michigan or the Bay of Green Bay.
2. He felt bad that he had to work the Southern Swing shift at the paper mill when we were little. He wasn't home at normal times, but when he was, he was 100% DAD. we would have waffles for breakfast when others were having cereal when he worked 3-11; there would be snacks on the counter when we'd get home from school when he worked days, and when he worked nights...amazing suppers and homework help before he went to sleep before work. And, when he wasn't home? Then....our stuffed animals would be set up in funny scenarios when we'd get home or he'd had started on amazing paper-mache projects that he liked to help us make. One time, dad and I made a dinosaur out of a bleach bottle and hanger, and he was sitting in a cardboard pool, complete with trees. It was amazing. But the best thing he did was create a flash card tape. One day he came home and Dad was at work. During the day he had set up the video camera and taped himself going through the all four sets of flashcards so Mom didnt' have to when she was home alone with us. Just thinking of all that love makes my heart smile.
AND....although I could go on forever about my awesome Pappy....
#1: He is the best Grandpa there is. He doesn't flinch when I ask him if he can watch Kitty. When I was struggling with severe post partum depression, he'd just randomly show up to watch Kitty so I could relax or do some laundry or sit in a sitz bath. He loves to take Kitty to Bay Beach or run errands. He's been known to buy little treats because Kitty might like some Animal crackers some day. Kitty likes to march around his dining room table, so he found a John Phillip Sousa CD to march to. Recently, he asks to take Kitty on sleepovers, because he likes to see her all sleepy in the morning. The love he feels for Kitty is so apparent in everything he does.
So, readers, if you love your dad, let him know it. Although I can bet that my dad is better than your dad. :) My dad's the best. The best, Jerry, the Best!!! (He also loves to watch Seinfeld, and he quotes it all the time....it's not annoying, but rather endearing.)
Saturday, June 20, 2009
The muggies are here! The muggies are here!
So, when I was a kid, there was a local weatherman who would say during his forecast that the Muggy family was outside playing, taking a walk, having a BBQ, etc, when the weather would turn thick and hot. For some unknown reason, this theory has stuck with my family. If it's super thick out, I can bet hard cash on Poppy calling and saying..."Gee, I bet the Muggies are out having a picnic right about now." I can seriously imagine my next door neighbors being the Muggies.
And man, are they back in town.
WI weather is back. with a summery vengeance.
Now, I like muggy weather. I would rather be sticky than cold. I hate the Wisconsin winters. But Whew! That first really muggy day is a doozy!
It's like the first sunburn....just have to get it, deal with it, and then the rest of the summer is easier.
Yesterday was that first muggy day. We spent it at the cottage, but of course, the Muggy family also brought overcast weather and sprinkles. Awesome day to spend at the cottage. And today? Muggy again, but sunny and beautiful. Of course.
So, I broke out my shorts (I never wear shorts outside my yard...capris for me) and Kitty's wearing her smallest, least covering romper and we're planning on going father's day shopping in air conditioned stores this AM.
Wisconsin summer is finally here. Hooray!
And man, are they back in town.
WI weather is back. with a summery vengeance.
Now, I like muggy weather. I would rather be sticky than cold. I hate the Wisconsin winters. But Whew! That first really muggy day is a doozy!
It's like the first sunburn....just have to get it, deal with it, and then the rest of the summer is easier.
Yesterday was that first muggy day. We spent it at the cottage, but of course, the Muggy family also brought overcast weather and sprinkles. Awesome day to spend at the cottage. And today? Muggy again, but sunny and beautiful. Of course.
So, I broke out my shorts (I never wear shorts outside my yard...capris for me) and Kitty's wearing her smallest, least covering romper and we're planning on going father's day shopping in air conditioned stores this AM.
Wisconsin summer is finally here. Hooray!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
The Screaming Eagle
Well, I don't know if I can call Kitty "Kitty" anymore. Lately, whenever she's excited, upset, running in the backyard, riding in the cart at the supermarket, she feels the need to let out a scream, that sounds like a baby eagle.
ok, so maybe I don't know what an eagle sounds like, but I'm guessing it sounds like Kitty.
It's cute the first 1000 times we hear it. But on Monday, when we were at the market, Kitty felt like squalling EVERY 3 FEET THOUGHTOUT THE ENTIRE STORE. People smiled and giggled, but I'm pretty sure I was red faced the entire shopping experience.
I think her new motto is one of my favorites...
"I sound my barbaric YAWP over the rooftops of the world."
you can ask Green Girl....she's heard it, and I'm sure she can hear it in her house, when Kitty's in the yard OR the house. Right, GG?
Otherwise, she spent last night at Grammy and Poppy's house, because I had training all day at school on Autism. Fascinating subject. I have another training day tomorrow, so she's at her schoool. So, today with Grammy she went and got her picture taken with her cousin BabyBear. Grammy wanted a Summer picture of them for her fridge. They turned out SO VERY CUTE. I wish I was there to see them get taken. She also went to Bay Beach with Poppy to ride the train. She had an awesome time. She loved it. I can't wait to take her back to ride the rest of the kiddy rides.
In other news, last weekend was Breakast on the Farm. I serve on the county Dairy Promotion Board (what a great farmer's wife I am!) and so I help run the breakfast. We served about 5000 people on Sunday. It was a perfect day on a perfect farm. Everyone had a wonderful time. I'm pretty proud of our efforts.
Other exciting news? My wonderful friend NavyGirl became an Auntie-cousin today to a brand new Baby Girl. Her cousin and best friend AND Matron of Honor (whew! she's busy! How did she have time to be preggo??? Just kidding MOH!) had her baby this morning. I'm so excited for her, and I can't wait to see pictures.
But most exciting....????? Tomorrow is only ONE MORE WEEK UNTIL BON JOVI AT SUMMERFEST!!!!! Can you tell I'm pumped? Wahoo!!!!
ok, so maybe I don't know what an eagle sounds like, but I'm guessing it sounds like Kitty.
It's cute the first 1000 times we hear it. But on Monday, when we were at the market, Kitty felt like squalling EVERY 3 FEET THOUGHTOUT THE ENTIRE STORE. People smiled and giggled, but I'm pretty sure I was red faced the entire shopping experience.
I think her new motto is one of my favorites...
"I sound my barbaric YAWP over the rooftops of the world."
you can ask Green Girl....she's heard it, and I'm sure she can hear it in her house, when Kitty's in the yard OR the house. Right, GG?
Otherwise, she spent last night at Grammy and Poppy's house, because I had training all day at school on Autism. Fascinating subject. I have another training day tomorrow, so she's at her schoool. So, today with Grammy she went and got her picture taken with her cousin BabyBear. Grammy wanted a Summer picture of them for her fridge. They turned out SO VERY CUTE. I wish I was there to see them get taken. She also went to Bay Beach with Poppy to ride the train. She had an awesome time. She loved it. I can't wait to take her back to ride the rest of the kiddy rides.
In other news, last weekend was Breakast on the Farm. I serve on the county Dairy Promotion Board (what a great farmer's wife I am!) and so I help run the breakfast. We served about 5000 people on Sunday. It was a perfect day on a perfect farm. Everyone had a wonderful time. I'm pretty proud of our efforts.
Other exciting news? My wonderful friend NavyGirl became an Auntie-cousin today to a brand new Baby Girl. Her cousin and best friend AND Matron of Honor (whew! she's busy! How did she have time to be preggo??? Just kidding MOH!) had her baby this morning. I'm so excited for her, and I can't wait to see pictures.
But most exciting....????? Tomorrow is only ONE MORE WEEK UNTIL BON JOVI AT SUMMERFEST!!!!! Can you tell I'm pumped? Wahoo!!!!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
An Oprah Observation
So, anyone who knows me at all well knows that I adore Oprah. I really think that my personal Motto could be "What would Oprah do?". I've been to see Oprah live (one of my Best Days Ever) and I watch whenever I can.
So, because it's 4:00 pm, Kitty and I turned on Oprah. Today's show is about waste. She opened the show by talking to the audience about how she hates waste and how America makes so much waste. And then they panned the audience. Everyone in the audience was staring at Ms. Oprah with big admiring eyes and nodding enthustically to everything she said.
I realized just then that Oprah could tell the masses to all go jump off the nearest bridge, and I'm pretty sure alot of people would do just that. It's amazing.
I do admit that I am mesmerized by Oprah. I may be one of them that would think...."hmmmm...maybe that bridge doesn't sound that bad...I could go for a swim....." I follow her advice, especially about fashion. NO MOM JEANS! NO TAPERED LEG! (another Historygirlie Motto)
Oprah is my Queen. I'm pretty sure I'm not going to stop listening to her advice....I just found it amusing to see what I look like when I'm thinking, listening, or looking at Oprah. Very funny.
So, because it's 4:00 pm, Kitty and I turned on Oprah. Today's show is about waste. She opened the show by talking to the audience about how she hates waste and how America makes so much waste. And then they panned the audience. Everyone in the audience was staring at Ms. Oprah with big admiring eyes and nodding enthustically to everything she said.
I realized just then that Oprah could tell the masses to all go jump off the nearest bridge, and I'm pretty sure alot of people would do just that. It's amazing.
I do admit that I am mesmerized by Oprah. I may be one of them that would think...."hmmmm...maybe that bridge doesn't sound that bad...I could go for a swim....." I follow her advice, especially about fashion. NO MOM JEANS! NO TAPERED LEG! (another Historygirlie Motto)
Oprah is my Queen. I'm pretty sure I'm not going to stop listening to her advice....I just found it amusing to see what I look like when I'm thinking, listening, or looking at Oprah. Very funny.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Hitched or Ditched and Sam's Club
So, I just finished watching quite possibly the worst show ever. It's on the CW and it was called "Hitched or Ditched"....basically, the premise is that a long time dating non-engaged couple gets nominated for this show, and then they have 4 days to plan their wedding and decide if they actually want to be married. Most of the time the couple has commitment phobia, and so the 4 days are a rollercoaster of emotions. In this episode, the bride decided ON THE ALTAR if she wanted to marry her boyfriend of 3.5 years.
I thought it was terrible. Yeah, I'm a firm believer of the "Just decide already!" theory, (or as Grammy calls it "Poop or get off the pot") but marriage isn't something that one should just be shoved into. I mean, if these people want to live in "do I want to marry you limbo", then go nuts. But why even agree to go on this show? Why let the cameras in? I know it's all sensationalism, but still. It's (hopefully) the rest of your life!
Aaargh.
But in happier notes, Kitty and I went on our periodic pilgrimage to Sam's Club today. Our Mecca of bulk items. We love it there...Kitty for the hugmongous shopping carts, myself for the fact that you can buy a 1/2 gallon of 3 bean salad and 40 granola bars at one time. Awesome. We also hit up the local JoAnn's Fabrics for all things crafty, and Festival Foods. It was an expensive day. Gulp. Kitty also hung out for a little while with 2 of her boyfriends...AKA 2 of the neighbor boys. They have a mutually exciting relationship. The boys love showing off for her (which includes the ever-flirty "hit yourself on the head and fall over" trick...she loves it every time) and she loves having anyone chase her. The gathering basically consisted of Kitty running around the backyard squalling like a baby eagle, while the boys gallantly rolled over themselves and made sure she didnt' climb up the ladder that Farmer had left in the middle of the yard---he's currently fixing my clothesline poles.
But, to revert back to Sam's Club (I have a migraine and took 3 excedrine migraine pills....things are a bit scattered, and since blogs give readers a small picture into everyday life....well folks, this is how my life works.....) why do people like to buy things in bulk? My whole immediate family adores Sam's....I firmly believe that Poppy (my dad) goes there just to look around at all the stuff. I bet he goes at least every other week, if not once a week. Mainly to buy Feta cheese....I bet we talk about Feta cheese at least 2 times a week. And everytime he goes to Sam's it's a BIG DEAL. Like going to see Santa. I feel the same way. I walk up and down almost every aisle every time I go. Why? I don't really know. Sometimes I wonder to myself....who needs to buy 2 gallons of ranch dressing at one time? Yes, I know...businesses and restaurants and day cares shop at Sam's, so they need to buy in bulk, but really!!??!! the sheer size of some things just amuses me greatly. 10 lbs of bacon! 5 gallon pail of margarine! 3 gallon box of olive oil!!!! 1000 file folders! 10 boxes of pens! It's wonderfully absurd. And I love it. LUV.
So, as I'm sure you're all wondering, what does tomorrow hold for the adventurous Historygirlie and her loyal mini sidekick, KittyCat? Well......I'm going to work more in my craft room----it's known around here as the 6th circle of Hell, because it's always a royal mess, and I want to scrap lots this summer when Kitty's napping---so if I can get another 1/2 hour down there while Kitty's happy, I can get more done. And depending on the weather, I'd like to take Kitty for a walk, and perhaps get some garden weeded. It's terrible, but it's rained so much that everything is mud. not cool. Otherwise, the normal. Load of laundry, empty the dishwasher, read Dr. Suess's ABC's 7000 times.
Life is good.
I thought it was terrible. Yeah, I'm a firm believer of the "Just decide already!" theory, (or as Grammy calls it "Poop or get off the pot") but marriage isn't something that one should just be shoved into. I mean, if these people want to live in "do I want to marry you limbo", then go nuts. But why even agree to go on this show? Why let the cameras in? I know it's all sensationalism, but still. It's (hopefully) the rest of your life!
Aaargh.
But in happier notes, Kitty and I went on our periodic pilgrimage to Sam's Club today. Our Mecca of bulk items. We love it there...Kitty for the hugmongous shopping carts, myself for the fact that you can buy a 1/2 gallon of 3 bean salad and 40 granola bars at one time. Awesome. We also hit up the local JoAnn's Fabrics for all things crafty, and Festival Foods. It was an expensive day. Gulp. Kitty also hung out for a little while with 2 of her boyfriends...AKA 2 of the neighbor boys. They have a mutually exciting relationship. The boys love showing off for her (which includes the ever-flirty "hit yourself on the head and fall over" trick...she loves it every time) and she loves having anyone chase her. The gathering basically consisted of Kitty running around the backyard squalling like a baby eagle, while the boys gallantly rolled over themselves and made sure she didnt' climb up the ladder that Farmer had left in the middle of the yard---he's currently fixing my clothesline poles.
But, to revert back to Sam's Club (I have a migraine and took 3 excedrine migraine pills....things are a bit scattered, and since blogs give readers a small picture into everyday life....well folks, this is how my life works.....) why do people like to buy things in bulk? My whole immediate family adores Sam's....I firmly believe that Poppy (my dad) goes there just to look around at all the stuff. I bet he goes at least every other week, if not once a week. Mainly to buy Feta cheese....I bet we talk about Feta cheese at least 2 times a week. And everytime he goes to Sam's it's a BIG DEAL. Like going to see Santa. I feel the same way. I walk up and down almost every aisle every time I go. Why? I don't really know. Sometimes I wonder to myself....who needs to buy 2 gallons of ranch dressing at one time? Yes, I know...businesses and restaurants and day cares shop at Sam's, so they need to buy in bulk, but really!!??!! the sheer size of some things just amuses me greatly. 10 lbs of bacon! 5 gallon pail of margarine! 3 gallon box of olive oil!!!! 1000 file folders! 10 boxes of pens! It's wonderfully absurd. And I love it. LUV.
So, as I'm sure you're all wondering, what does tomorrow hold for the adventurous Historygirlie and her loyal mini sidekick, KittyCat? Well......I'm going to work more in my craft room----it's known around here as the 6th circle of Hell, because it's always a royal mess, and I want to scrap lots this summer when Kitty's napping---so if I can get another 1/2 hour down there while Kitty's happy, I can get more done. And depending on the weather, I'd like to take Kitty for a walk, and perhaps get some garden weeded. It's terrible, but it's rained so much that everything is mud. not cool. Otherwise, the normal. Load of laundry, empty the dishwasher, read Dr. Suess's ABC's 7000 times.
Life is good.
A post for Maverick....
NavyGuy, or Rearden, whatever you prefer....
I prefer Maverick.....
but anyway......
Yes, I agree with NavyGirlie...you have very little to no control over whether or not NavyGirlie buys Cricut Cartridges, Mr. I-Spent-The-Entire-Weekend-Boring-Mugs-While-building-A-Computer. She needs a creative outlet too!!!!! You build computers, she cuts with Cricuts. :)
And, I definitely will teach Mugs how to create award winning cheesecakes once you find a way to have the US Navy post an aircraft carrier on Lake Michigan. It's hard to teach the art of cooking over the phone.
Well, unless we got Skype, but still. I'm dumb at computers, Mugs has a hard time cooking and talking at the same time. A recipe for disaster. (Ha! I'm punny!)
Plus, we (The Queen Mum and I) are angling for any way to get Mugs back in CowState, so I think the Navy could post you at Lake Michigan...don't you agree?
You work on that this afternoon. Go talk to your CO or something. :)
Besides, someone needs to buy Cricut's when they are 1/2 price...I spent too much already, so I had to just admire longingly this AM at JoAnn's and not purchase.
So, there's my thoughts. Let me know what you think.
Missing all of you out there~
HistoryGirlie (And Kitty and Farmer too)
Ed. Note: For all my other readers....sorry about the personalized post....I just needed to respond to Maverick in the debate we are currently having....I chose this method. :) Check back later or tomorrow for a regular type post!!! Thanks!
I prefer Maverick.....
but anyway......
Yes, I agree with NavyGirlie...you have very little to no control over whether or not NavyGirlie buys Cricut Cartridges, Mr. I-Spent-The-Entire-Weekend-Boring-Mugs-While-building-A-Computer. She needs a creative outlet too!!!!! You build computers, she cuts with Cricuts. :)
And, I definitely will teach Mugs how to create award winning cheesecakes once you find a way to have the US Navy post an aircraft carrier on Lake Michigan. It's hard to teach the art of cooking over the phone.
Well, unless we got Skype, but still. I'm dumb at computers, Mugs has a hard time cooking and talking at the same time. A recipe for disaster. (Ha! I'm punny!)
Plus, we (The Queen Mum and I) are angling for any way to get Mugs back in CowState, so I think the Navy could post you at Lake Michigan...don't you agree?
You work on that this afternoon. Go talk to your CO or something. :)
Besides, someone needs to buy Cricut's when they are 1/2 price...I spent too much already, so I had to just admire longingly this AM at JoAnn's and not purchase.
So, there's my thoughts. Let me know what you think.
Missing all of you out there~
HistoryGirlie (And Kitty and Farmer too)
Ed. Note: For all my other readers....sorry about the personalized post....I just needed to respond to Maverick in the debate we are currently having....I chose this method. :) Check back later or tomorrow for a regular type post!!! Thanks!
Monday, June 8, 2009
The cheesecake recipe and other events
http://www.recipegoldmine.com/cakecheesesweR/white-chocolate-hazelnut-cc.html
click on the link above....you'll find the gold medal recipe. Enjoy! Just an FYI: I substituted pecans for hazelnuts, because I couldn't find hazelnuts in the store. Contact me if you have any questions while making it!!!!!
So, in the afterglow of the big win, today I straightened all my kitchen cupboards, wiped them out with antiseptic stuff, and put them all back together. Whoopie Fizz. What an amazing time. Kitty and I also cleaned up some laundry, put away her clothes, and read the same 3 books 5 times. Right now we love The Animal's Christmas Eve, Elmo's Big Day, and Where are Baby's Easter Egg? At least we are taking a small break from Baby Farm Animals. For now.
I guess we're back to reality after the cheering masses and brass band parade of yesterday's win. Ok, so there was no parade, but I was definitely singing marching band music in my head as I walked back to the car. :) But tonight I do get my hair dyed by my friend M, so I'll have very few roots left. Wahoo!!!!!
click on the link above....you'll find the gold medal recipe. Enjoy! Just an FYI: I substituted pecans for hazelnuts, because I couldn't find hazelnuts in the store. Contact me if you have any questions while making it!!!!!
So, in the afterglow of the big win, today I straightened all my kitchen cupboards, wiped them out with antiseptic stuff, and put them all back together. Whoopie Fizz. What an amazing time. Kitty and I also cleaned up some laundry, put away her clothes, and read the same 3 books 5 times. Right now we love The Animal's Christmas Eve, Elmo's Big Day, and Where are Baby's Easter Egg? At least we are taking a small break from Baby Farm Animals. For now.
I guess we're back to reality after the cheering masses and brass band parade of yesterday's win. Ok, so there was no parade, but I was definitely singing marching band music in my head as I walked back to the car. :) But tonight I do get my hair dyed by my friend M, so I'll have very few roots left. Wahoo!!!!!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
A cheesecake championship
So, today was the day.
The big day.
The Cheesefest Cheesecake competiton. The day I seriously train for, like athletes do for their sports.
I start really thinking about what kind of cake I want to make at Christmas time. I make at least one to three cakes a month, trying to figure out what to do. Farmer and his family enjoy training season.
So, this competition, I decided on a White Chocolate Lemon cheesecake with a raspberry ripple, and a white chocolate cream cheese frosting. This decision did not come about by chance. I have two theories....here they are.....
#1: It's June. people like fruit flavors in summertime. The light taste tastes good. Its' refreshing for summer. People don't like heavy flavors like pumpkin, carrot, or chocolate peanut butter in summer. those are fall/winter flavors. So, I automatically dismiss those flavors from my idea list.
#2: A cheesecake with layers is more impressive than a one layer cake. Think about it. A layer cake always gets more Oooohs and Ahhhs than a sheet cake, right? The same is for cheesecakes. So I like to find an intricate recipe that has at least one layer....people are impressed to cut into the cake and wow! there's a ripple in there! unexpected and tasty!
So, I made the cheesecake yesterday, because c-cakes have to cure overnight in the fridge for best flavor. It takes multiple steps to get the cake done, so it was a joint effort between Farmer and I. Farmer was in charge of keeping Kitty out of the kitchen. A very important step.
Today Grammy and I decorated the cake togehter---I can bake, but I can't use a frosting gun. Mom's also in charge of the decorations for the area of the cake. Again, I have great ideas for the decor, but mom's just better at the execution of the decor. She can tie a mean bow out of tuille and twistyties.
We get to the wet, dripping, soggy festival grounds and get the cake set up. (did I mention it was 50 degrees out todoay and rained all day yesterday and this morning??? yeah...it was pleasant....Kitty was so bundled up all we could see was her little face in the stroller) There are 14 cakes present.....big competition. A few I was able to write off right away...not pretty or appetizing, messy, and just icky looking. The judging started with judging of the look of the cake...not the taste. I knew i was good there....it was one hot looking cake.
Then they started cutting a piece out for the taste testers. There were 4 judges, one radio guy and 3 actual bakers. Yikes. It's like watching TV....they take tiny bites, make concerned faces and lick their lips slowly. They made their way around the cakes, making notes as they went. At one point I was trying to help Auntie Mousie see what the judges were writing on the sheets....she stands almost 6 feet tall, but even with me boosting her up (not noticably, as if she was standing on my back or anything) but she couldn't make out what they were writing about my cake. My cake was 2nd to last in the judge order. One judge was a double dipper...several tastes with teh same spoon. Ick. Another judge really liked my cake. he took several tastes. but with different spoons. :)
The tension was palpable. Grammy, Auntie Mousie, and myself were holding hands, partially out of excitement, partially because we were fricking freezing standing outside in the 50 degree rain. Then they tabulated the results. The radio guy made a couple quick announcements, and then got down to business.
3rd place: a Kaluha and bits cheesecake (don't know what the bits were...toffee???)
2nd place: Tuxedo cheesecake (a multi-layer chocolate and white cheesecake, with a brownie layer! I'm gonna try making that one soon!)
And.....
1st place:::::
SummerTime Delight Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake by HistoryGirlie!!!!
WAHOOO!!!!
I'm so pumped. I haven't won 1st place before....it's a great day. My prize? $100 and a personalize cheese cutter with engraving on it. It was great. They sell the pieces after the contest and mine sold out immediately. One judge stopped me and told me it was an amazing cake....and she was a baker!!!!!
So, my summer got off to a great start. Next up: Farmer County Fair.......Look out! Historygirlie is coming out with guns blazing!
WOOHOO! 1st place!!!!!!
Because I'm not one of them....those that keep recipes to themselves....I'll post my recipe for the cake tomorrow. It takes over 3 hours to make, so you can imagine the intricate recipe. I'm worn out....from the competition, and because Kitty was wired tight all night tonight....If every day were like tonight, TLC would be making a TV show out of the Farmer family instead of the Gosselins. It would be humerous to anyone other than her parent, who was trying to put her jammies on for 25 minutes. Obviously, running around in your diapie and giggling is SO MUCH FUN. We'd get one leg in, and then she'd take off again, kicking off the jammies as we went.
So, this champion is off to watch Family Guy in bed. Not only did I win, but I also have clean sheets on the bed. Bliss. :)
"We are the champions, my friend...."
The big day.
The Cheesefest Cheesecake competiton. The day I seriously train for, like athletes do for their sports.
I start really thinking about what kind of cake I want to make at Christmas time. I make at least one to three cakes a month, trying to figure out what to do. Farmer and his family enjoy training season.
So, this competition, I decided on a White Chocolate Lemon cheesecake with a raspberry ripple, and a white chocolate cream cheese frosting. This decision did not come about by chance. I have two theories....here they are.....
#1: It's June. people like fruit flavors in summertime. The light taste tastes good. Its' refreshing for summer. People don't like heavy flavors like pumpkin, carrot, or chocolate peanut butter in summer. those are fall/winter flavors. So, I automatically dismiss those flavors from my idea list.
#2: A cheesecake with layers is more impressive than a one layer cake. Think about it. A layer cake always gets more Oooohs and Ahhhs than a sheet cake, right? The same is for cheesecakes. So I like to find an intricate recipe that has at least one layer....people are impressed to cut into the cake and wow! there's a ripple in there! unexpected and tasty!
So, I made the cheesecake yesterday, because c-cakes have to cure overnight in the fridge for best flavor. It takes multiple steps to get the cake done, so it was a joint effort between Farmer and I. Farmer was in charge of keeping Kitty out of the kitchen. A very important step.
Today Grammy and I decorated the cake togehter---I can bake, but I can't use a frosting gun. Mom's also in charge of the decorations for the area of the cake. Again, I have great ideas for the decor, but mom's just better at the execution of the decor. She can tie a mean bow out of tuille and twistyties.
We get to the wet, dripping, soggy festival grounds and get the cake set up. (did I mention it was 50 degrees out todoay and rained all day yesterday and this morning??? yeah...it was pleasant....Kitty was so bundled up all we could see was her little face in the stroller) There are 14 cakes present.....big competition. A few I was able to write off right away...not pretty or appetizing, messy, and just icky looking. The judging started with judging of the look of the cake...not the taste. I knew i was good there....it was one hot looking cake.
Then they started cutting a piece out for the taste testers. There were 4 judges, one radio guy and 3 actual bakers. Yikes. It's like watching TV....they take tiny bites, make concerned faces and lick their lips slowly. They made their way around the cakes, making notes as they went. At one point I was trying to help Auntie Mousie see what the judges were writing on the sheets....she stands almost 6 feet tall, but even with me boosting her up (not noticably, as if she was standing on my back or anything) but she couldn't make out what they were writing about my cake. My cake was 2nd to last in the judge order. One judge was a double dipper...several tastes with teh same spoon. Ick. Another judge really liked my cake. he took several tastes. but with different spoons. :)
The tension was palpable. Grammy, Auntie Mousie, and myself were holding hands, partially out of excitement, partially because we were fricking freezing standing outside in the 50 degree rain. Then they tabulated the results. The radio guy made a couple quick announcements, and then got down to business.
3rd place: a Kaluha and bits cheesecake (don't know what the bits were...toffee???)
2nd place: Tuxedo cheesecake (a multi-layer chocolate and white cheesecake, with a brownie layer! I'm gonna try making that one soon!)
And.....
1st place:::::
SummerTime Delight Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake by HistoryGirlie!!!!
WAHOOO!!!!
I'm so pumped. I haven't won 1st place before....it's a great day. My prize? $100 and a personalize cheese cutter with engraving on it. It was great. They sell the pieces after the contest and mine sold out immediately. One judge stopped me and told me it was an amazing cake....and she was a baker!!!!!
So, my summer got off to a great start. Next up: Farmer County Fair.......Look out! Historygirlie is coming out with guns blazing!
WOOHOO! 1st place!!!!!!
Because I'm not one of them....those that keep recipes to themselves....I'll post my recipe for the cake tomorrow. It takes over 3 hours to make, so you can imagine the intricate recipe. I'm worn out....from the competition, and because Kitty was wired tight all night tonight....If every day were like tonight, TLC would be making a TV show out of the Farmer family instead of the Gosselins. It would be humerous to anyone other than her parent, who was trying to put her jammies on for 25 minutes. Obviously, running around in your diapie and giggling is SO MUCH FUN. We'd get one leg in, and then she'd take off again, kicking off the jammies as we went.
So, this champion is off to watch Family Guy in bed. Not only did I win, but I also have clean sheets on the bed. Bliss. :)
"We are the champions, my friend...."
Saturday, June 6, 2009
A Graduation Reflection
So, Thursday night was Papertown's High School Graduation. And, as high school staff, it was required that I attend.
Now, most of my colleagues grumble and moan about having to attend....it's not paid extra, it's not during contract time, we aren't given the same amount of comp time to make up for it, yadda yadda, union-contract-lingo. And, really, I do understand what they mean. I get it.
However, I think differently.
I enjoy attending high school graduation. I've been there long enough now that I've seen these kids grow from gawky freshmen, afraid of shadows and the gym hallway (the football team can be intimidating) to being Seniors, who rule the school. I had the opportunity to teach them in many different subjects. I've seen them celebrate at State Football, dance the night away at Prom, and help them deal with their "HUGE LIFE MOMENTS", which to an adult are not that big. I love watching them walk across the stage, shake the Principal's hand, and get their corny picture taken with diploma cover in front of the American Flag. I tear up when I see some of my favorite kids make the big walk, and I celebrate that some of them will NEVER enter my classroom again. I cheer when that kid who had all bets against them for graduating smiles at the crowd when his classmates cheer his achievement.
I think that this year I'm so schmaltzy about graduation because I truly loved this graduating class. They were a wonderful group that showed what is good about KHS. They were the athletes, musicians, actors, academics, and just all around good kids. Yeah, I know they were also huge drinkers and had more sex partners than I can imagine, but when they were in my classroom, they were just fun. They also knew what was fair. For lack of better words, I was "picked on" via an online format last year by some students who were not being fair to me....a bunch of the then-juniors found out about it, and took care of the whole situation before it could get blown fully out of porportion. They weren't being bullies, but rather just righted a wrong. Then they came to me, informed me of what happened, and promised to help me deal with it again if it reoccured. THat's only one of the reasons why I love this graduating class.
So, yeah. Graduation can be a pain. I'd rather be in my sweats at 8:00 pm, but it was worth wearing my heels and girdle to help them transition to the next big moment in their lives. The handshakes, hugs, and congratulatory words meant so much to them that night. I'll miss them next year, not having them pop in and say "Hey Mrs V!" and give a big wave before they move on to their class. But I know that I did my job getting them ready for the next big step. I'll be excited to see them in a few years and see what they have done with their lives.
Godspeed, Graduates. I wish you all the best.
Now, most of my colleagues grumble and moan about having to attend....it's not paid extra, it's not during contract time, we aren't given the same amount of comp time to make up for it, yadda yadda, union-contract-lingo. And, really, I do understand what they mean. I get it.
However, I think differently.
I enjoy attending high school graduation. I've been there long enough now that I've seen these kids grow from gawky freshmen, afraid of shadows and the gym hallway (the football team can be intimidating) to being Seniors, who rule the school. I had the opportunity to teach them in many different subjects. I've seen them celebrate at State Football, dance the night away at Prom, and help them deal with their "HUGE LIFE MOMENTS", which to an adult are not that big. I love watching them walk across the stage, shake the Principal's hand, and get their corny picture taken with diploma cover in front of the American Flag. I tear up when I see some of my favorite kids make the big walk, and I celebrate that some of them will NEVER enter my classroom again. I cheer when that kid who had all bets against them for graduating smiles at the crowd when his classmates cheer his achievement.
I think that this year I'm so schmaltzy about graduation because I truly loved this graduating class. They were a wonderful group that showed what is good about KHS. They were the athletes, musicians, actors, academics, and just all around good kids. Yeah, I know they were also huge drinkers and had more sex partners than I can imagine, but when they were in my classroom, they were just fun. They also knew what was fair. For lack of better words, I was "picked on" via an online format last year by some students who were not being fair to me....a bunch of the then-juniors found out about it, and took care of the whole situation before it could get blown fully out of porportion. They weren't being bullies, but rather just righted a wrong. Then they came to me, informed me of what happened, and promised to help me deal with it again if it reoccured. THat's only one of the reasons why I love this graduating class.
So, yeah. Graduation can be a pain. I'd rather be in my sweats at 8:00 pm, but it was worth wearing my heels and girdle to help them transition to the next big moment in their lives. The handshakes, hugs, and congratulatory words meant so much to them that night. I'll miss them next year, not having them pop in and say "Hey Mrs V!" and give a big wave before they move on to their class. But I know that I did my job getting them ready for the next big step. I'll be excited to see them in a few years and see what they have done with their lives.
Godspeed, Graduates. I wish you all the best.
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