tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24224108289211043892024-03-13T15:04:09.635-07:00The Real World, Part ISeniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-7350443638653699422013-11-24T05:59:00.002-08:002013-11-24T06:00:23.164-08:00Holding SteadyApparently there isn't too much to report if you're not <a href="http://seniasblog.blogspot.com/2013/05/no-words.html" target="_blank">baking biscuits in your bedroom</a> or tapping in to your inner <a href="http://seniasblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-evolution-continues.html" target="_blank">Cave Woman</a>.<br />
<br />
We're plugging away here, juggling work, home ownership, relationships, and play. Now that the holidays are here, I'm definitely voting for mostly relationships and play...<br />
<br />
We continue to put our new kitchen to good use -- yesterday we had a Burrito-making extravaganza and stocked our freezer. Those people at Chipotle make folding a burrito look way too easy. I have reduced my work hours to 30 hours/week, which has been a blessing, so I find more time on Mondays and Fridays to do things in the kitchen. It is so true that a way to a man's heart is through his stomach. :-)<br />
<br />
This year we'll be having a quieter Thanksgiving at home with just Kevin and I. This will allow us to try weird new recipes and experimentations. Who knows, we might even eat our pumpkin pie straight out of the pan. And eat it for a midnight snack. And breakfast. With a side of stuffing.<br />
<br />
We are looking forward to a visit to Vancouver on Dec 11th for our first annual Thanksmas. We'll miss the 1/2 price socks at Fred Meyers and my parent's Christmas night gowns (Seeing your Dad in a candy-cane striped night gown and stocking cap: Priceless), but we're thankful for the opportunity to be with family when we can!<br />
<br />
Thanks for checking in!<br />
<br />
<br />Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-29673665553337344372013-07-29T17:46:00.001-07:002013-07-29T17:46:52.648-07:00The Evolution ContinuesIt's been a few months and the kitchen is still wonderful. Kitchen output has been going full force, which we are loving! And so far, our pants even still zip. We are enjoying "boycotting" house projects for the summer, although we are both notorious for crossing the picket lines and working on a project.<br />
<br />
We are making fewer trips to Lowe's and Home Depot, but I know have been frequenting FLEET FARM on a weekly basis. For those of you who aren't from the midwest, they sell accessories for every manly-hobby out there -- including camouflage lingerie --, have a giant nut and candy section, and have random bins of DVDs on sale. Can you picture it? Kind of like a Bi-Mart.<br />
<br />
Anyway. I/we have been going there. A lot.<br />
<br />
I now know what a combo Sump Pump is (we had massive rain/wind storms back in June). I now enjoy looking at <i>camping</i> gear, especially the cute little titanium coffee mugs.<br />
<br />
Speaking of that, this past weekend Kevin and I went camping! No, it was not in the backyard, and I did not bring a battery-operated Keurig. I was a bit nervous as Kevin is quite the outdoorsman and I, well... enjoy good coffee and a roof over my head. But we had a great time! We relaxed, ate good food over the campfire, hiked and hiked and hiked, and I perfected my pop-a-squat technique. We hiked all 14 miles of trails at the campgrounds, without any injuries (unlike our hike by Mt. St. Helen's back in June...). The temps were cool, which made for chilly sleeping but kept the mosquitoes away! I only briefly got to use my Off! Clip On, which I highly recommend.<br />
<br />
(Pictures for Mom)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CPlHhYqRipg/UfcIBshpGUI/AAAAAAAAAL4/EchyrL0U6kU/s1600/2013-07-27+09.52.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CPlHhYqRipg/UfcIBshpGUI/AAAAAAAAAL4/EchyrL0U6kU/s320/2013-07-27+09.52.01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AljuQYc3IEY/UfcH9ctIybI/AAAAAAAAALw/FmxyVqwDFyw/s1600/2013-07-27+10.30.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AljuQYc3IEY/UfcH9ctIybI/AAAAAAAAALw/FmxyVqwDFyw/s320/2013-07-27+10.30.01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xALv3_9-Ips/UfcICAZmvkI/AAAAAAAAAMI/-PVZb35XEsk/s1600/2013-07-27+13.40.37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xALv3_9-Ips/UfcICAZmvkI/AAAAAAAAAMI/-PVZb35XEsk/s320/2013-07-27+13.40.37.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bq3_EPId3bE/UfcICdZZ1hI/AAAAAAAAAMM/8RAayRYwbk4/s1600/2013-07-27+13.43.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bq3_EPId3bE/UfcICdZZ1hI/AAAAAAAAAMM/8RAayRYwbk4/s320/2013-07-27+13.43.31.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i3dc6jjSMLw/UfcICOwhUaI/AAAAAAAAAL8/CdgCXFvOlo4/s1600/2013-07-27+15.29.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i3dc6jjSMLw/UfcICOwhUaI/AAAAAAAAAL8/CdgCXFvOlo4/s320/2013-07-27+15.29.24.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MPMCPhXC9yk/UfcID1qkP-I/AAAAAAAAAMY/yQ9WjxY4fm4/s1600/2013-07-28+10.00.08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MPMCPhXC9yk/UfcID1qkP-I/AAAAAAAAAMY/yQ9WjxY4fm4/s320/2013-07-28+10.00.08.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I also went for a bike ride today, which, if you know me, know how big of a deal that is.<br />
<br />
I now work 30 hours/week (3 days) instead of 40, which has been an amazing change for me. I love being home to do the "domestic" things and finding all kinds of new "opportunities" (See FLEET FARM, above)<br />
<br />
We are continuing to learn about ourselves, both as a couple and as individuals. Life is good!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-31137387464296286282013-05-20T16:19:00.001-07:002013-05-20T16:20:09.069-07:00No WordsOkay, well maybe just a few.<br />
<br />
We are SO CLOSE to being done. Hopefully our faucet will arrive tomorrow (Faucet...one the many Unexpected Glitches) and we can install that, then the kitchen will be completely functional! Kevin still has to put the base boards back up, but hey, that's the family room, not the kitchen!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A trip down memory lane. Ugh, don't miss that!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKip0jcVgkY/UZqt-Nds84I/AAAAAAAAAKk/nkZEVy9QT8g/s1600/before+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKip0jcVgkY/UZqt-Nds84I/AAAAAAAAAKk/nkZEVy9QT8g/s320/before+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ju-3vMphN64/UZquBpcytJI/AAAAAAAAALU/ek96XJw1eUQ/s1600/shot+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ju-3vMphN64/UZquBpcytJI/AAAAAAAAALU/ek96XJw1eUQ/s320/shot+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the middle. Sigh, I will <span style="font-size: xx-small;">sort of </span>miss this - lots of hard work, memories, and learning!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pwk1NA6T9po/UZqt_ascKwI/AAAAAAAAAK0/XqZ0DGBpR-E/s1600/mid+way.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pwk1NA6T9po/UZqt_ascKwI/AAAAAAAAAK0/XqZ0DGBpR-E/s320/mid+way.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jj9jbF6T0aA/UZqt_SGhsMI/AAAAAAAAAK4/5cbgYbT8UTo/s1600/midway+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jj9jbF6T0aA/UZqt_SGhsMI/AAAAAAAAAK4/5cbgYbT8UTo/s320/midway+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Baking biscuits in the bedroom. Classic.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9DekKhJB-iM/UZqt-LfROfI/AAAAAAAAAKo/uusP49mJ2NI/s1600/biscuits+in+bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9DekKhJB-iM/UZqt-LfROfI/AAAAAAAAAKo/uusP49mJ2NI/s320/biscuits+in+bedroom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our makeshift kitchen... lots of meals in the toaster oven and on the griddle!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RhW6VWncsUk/UZqt_923dKI/AAAAAAAAAK8/tlFt1SRd-8c/s1600/our+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RhW6VWncsUk/UZqt_923dKI/AAAAAAAAAK8/tlFt1SRd-8c/s320/our+kitchen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And.... drum roll! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:-)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9s0Dbg2xoQ/UZquBokQ7wI/AAAAAAAAALY/JPE6wMikXLs/s1600/Senia+in+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9s0Dbg2xoQ/UZquBokQ7wI/AAAAAAAAALY/JPE6wMikXLs/s320/Senia+in+kitchen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fIQvs1XIVPk/UZquBH9x2bI/AAAAAAAAALQ/7ABW_Sd2V6k/s1600/pantry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fIQvs1XIVPk/UZquBH9x2bI/AAAAAAAAALQ/7ABW_Sd2V6k/s320/pantry.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lTfIiNgqX10/UZqt9lgXF1I/AAAAAAAAAKg/r8R8QhhSGVw/s1600/after+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lTfIiNgqX10/UZqt9lgXF1I/AAAAAAAAAKg/r8R8QhhSGVw/s320/after+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Can't wait to bake a cake!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-76817085165133296132013-05-12T07:04:00.001-07:002013-05-12T07:04:23.780-07:00It's been 16 days...16 days since my last post, which means it has been more than 2 weeks.<br />
<br />
The kitchen is still not done.<br />
<br />
I prefer dark chocolate and See's, cream-filled.Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-49322151479986500432013-04-26T10:04:00.000-07:002013-04-26T10:04:01.970-07:00I was holding out to have the next blog entry be a big unveiling with an "after" picture of our gleaming new kitchen but... it's still dusty and non-functional. We are making progress but the finished product is still a few weeks out. At this point, I am very ready for it to be done. I am ready to have water access on the same floor, to be able to use a dishwasher, to have more than a 3x2 ft counter space, to be able to cook or bake something that requires more than 3 ingredients, and to plug in appliances to my heart's content without blowing a circuit. Oh -- and ready to have my husband and "us" back. I really shouldn't complain, as I think we've made the most of it and even managed to "entertain" with our make-shift kitchen (see below).<br />
<br />
A few other tid bits...<br />
<br />
We survived the 2 year Anniversary of Alison and Eleanor's deaths. April stirs up a lot of emotions and insecurities in me, but we made it through. Kevin, as usual, handled it remarkably well. We (coincidentally) ended up having a much-anticipated, 1-night Staycation on "The Anniversary." It was a perfectly relaxing, fun-filled day. We ate delicious foods all day, went to a yard and garden expo, went to a CSA fair and signed up for a veggie share (yipee!), stayed at a hotel, and escaped our work and worries. After months of being consumed by the kitchen project and other "stuff," it was so nice to have some quality one-on-one time together. Can't wait for the next one! :-)<br />
<br />
My clinic just moved to a new building, so it's been a hectic few weeks of packing, moving, and now trying to find my way around a *much* larger building! My one day/week at the high school is going well, and it's been a nice change of pace.<br />
<br />
My parents were here last week, my mom for a week and my dad for a long weekend. It was fabulous! My dad was able to help Kevin install the bamboo flooring (See?! Progress!) and my mom and I had plenty of girl time -- much needed. The house feels awfully empty with them gone, now. I'll hang on to those warm memories until we (hopefully) make a trip there over 4th of July.<br />
<br />
Spring may finally have arrived, despite several snow storms in the last few weeks (which my parents even got in on!). A week ago we were shoveling out our driveway, and today/this weekend the forecast is into the 70s. Finally! Kevin's softball league starts soon, so that'll be our new Monday night routine. <br />
<br />
This summer I'll be trying out a 3 day work week (10 hour days) which I am hoping will help me restore a little more balance and decrease some work-related anxiety I've been experiencing. We'll try it out this summer and see how things go. I hope to find some projects to work on, like prepping our bushels of veggies! :-)<br />
<br />
If I haven't posted The Reveal in two weeks, send lots of chocolate. By then, I'll be needing it!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-65068204522908883432013-03-31T05:10:00.003-07:002013-03-31T05:10:30.363-07:00Two Truths and a Lie<strong>Truth</strong>: Apparently my Uncle Morris, who has worked in construction for many years, has a hypothesis for determining how long a project will take.<br />
<br />
X*2+10%<br />
<br />
What you think it'll take, multiplied by two, plus 10%.<br />
<br />
We have proven this hypothesis true.<br />
<br />
The kitchen project is more or less (we'll go with less) on schedule. We've been very busy tackling both anticipated and unanticipated projects. I have learned that our kitchen is as complex as an onion, the floors at least. The more layers we peel off, the more we find and have to peel up. For all of you who think you have a clean house, have you checked your sub-sub-sub floor for dust bunnies?<br />
<br />
<strong>Truth</strong>: My mother has a theory that when your husband sends you on a "simple" errand to "just buy this" or to just "have this done to the car," he cannot be trusted. Inevitably, the sales person will stray from the script you've rehearsed, making your handwritten shopping list from your husband worthless. They will not carry the screws you are looking for, and they will grill you on which drill bit you have and if it's the correct one, because the Phillips 2 bit will not work with this torq screw that uses a T20. You will sheepishly insert the self-defeating "All my husband told me..." They will likely roll their eyes at you. Not that I hold any ill feelings towards the sales man at Ace's Hardware on Winnetka Avenue.<br />
<br />
<strong>Lie:</strong> I cannot operate a power drill.<br />
<br />
It's a lie, it's a lie! Cause I can! I am a drilling machine and have sore forerms and blisters to prove it!<br />
<br />
Well, time for the Easter bunny to do a few preparations. Happy Easter! :-)<br />
<br />
[No pictures today. The pictures would be deceiving in that you wouldn't be able to see any progress (like shiny new appliances), and knowing how hard we've been working, my ego can't handle that.]Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-60329550446558857802013-03-17T18:47:00.002-07:002013-03-17T18:47:21.453-07:00Here We Go!An update on the kitchen project, for those of you who have been curious:<br />
<br />
Last weekend I packed up the kitchen (I'm getting pretty good at packing after living in 9 different places in the last 7 years), then this weekend we gutted the kitchen, scraped the popcorn texture off the ceiling, vacuumed, sanded the ceiling, vacuumed, took out the laminate flooring, found 2 layers of classic 1970s linoleum, pulled up 2 layers of classic 1970s linoleum, vacuumed, scraped the floor, vacuumed. Did I mention we vacuumed? And Kevin did some other odds and ends that I don't understand. Wires? Phishing? Fishing? Better him than me.<br />
<br />
Living in a construction zone is quite the feat for a germ-a-phobe such as myself, but I/we are surviving. We have a make-shift kitchen set-up in our front room, the fridge in another room (just a quick trip outside -- we're struggling to get above 20 degrees still -- through the garage and mud room since the kitchen is plastic/taped off), sink in the basement...We do have a freezer full of leftover food and are still managing to keep a fridge stocked with fruits and vegetables, so I really can't complain. Add to that a few bags of Easter candy, which we dug into early, and we're all set for a busy month or so!<br />
<br />
It was a busy and productive weekend, and quite gratifying. I say that now, showered, sitting, breathing (relatively) dust-free air, and in clean clothes, although in the midst of tearing up the linoleum, I remember asking Kevin to remind me of ripping up linoleum when I'm in childbirth, just to see which I'd rather be doing. (Mothers, don't harass me for that comment. There's a good chance I'd jump at the chance to be back in Demo. It'll be interesting to see).<br />
<br />
Kevin is a super hard-worker, so he keeps me going. I've learned all kinds of new things this weekend and have a few blisters and lots of sore muscles to show for it. Tomorrow I learn something new again when I start my first day at a high school, where I'll be working one day a week through the end of the school year, a contract placement through my current employers.<br />
<br />
So lots of new things and a bit of instability, but we're hanging in there!<br />
<br />
Thanks for checking in!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UGEGdamT8fM/UUZx-aNMTMI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/W-DLR2Yjk8s/s1600/before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UGEGdamT8fM/UUZx-aNMTMI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/W-DLR2Yjk8s/s1600/before.jpg" /></a>Back when life was "normal"</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZlqXw-Gbf8/UUZx_xsUYeI/AAAAAAAAAKE/JpnC38QORUM/s1600/Gutted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZlqXw-Gbf8/UUZx_xsUYeI/AAAAAAAAAKE/JpnC38QORUM/s320/Gutted.jpg" width="320" /></a>The Zone</div>
Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-20722844829568537102013-02-23T18:24:00.001-08:002013-02-23T18:24:05.475-08:00That Was Then, This is NowIt only took me 6 months to make my way back to the blog.<br />
<br />
Kevin and I are doing great here in Minnesota. We made a trip to Vancouver over Christmas but other than that have been little hermits in our comfy home. I miss my family a ton, but it's nice to finally have my own home and family, too. We both have new jobs and are enjoying those, for the most part. Marriage has been so fulfilling and we learn more about ourselves and each other every day. It's everything I hoped it would be and more, but that's not to say it doesn't require effort. We are loving our home, even though we are currently ripping it apart (literally). Which is the inspiration of this blog post...<br />
<br />
<strong><em>That was then, this is now.</em></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Then</strong>: I can still feel the horror of Mom and Dad listing an appliance or lighting store as one of our Sunday errands. Oh, the boredom! Oh, the lack of age-appropriate stimulation! At least if we were clothes shopping for Dad at Meier and Frank we kids could have pin-collecting-contests (I do admit to cheating and pulling them out of the perfectly folded shirts instead of just picking dropped pins off the floor). But <em>appliances?!</em> <em>Carpet samples?! </em>Fortunately, we kids were usually able to avoid the torture of these stores by offering to wait in the van, where we delved into the next adventure in our "Box Car Children" saga. This consisted of Heather and I trying to convince Erik to complete our posse by playing the role of Benny and him insisting on being Watch, the dog.<br />
<br />
<strong>Now</strong>: Plans to go to an appliance or lighting store is a huge carrot at the end of my busy work day. I even initiate visits to such stores. I've been known to get a wee bit giddy before going inside. Oh, the bottom-freezers! Oh, the gas cook tops! These errands are especially appealing since we are actually <em>in the market</em> for these items, as we are finally executing our kitchen remodel. <em>(Yay!)</em><br />
<em></em><br />
What's happened to me?!<br />
<br />
HGTV is my new favorite channel and I can speak Recessed Lighting Lingo with the best of them. I could spew appliance specs and Consumer Reports' ratings until I put you to sleep.<br />
<br />
This morning I left the house in one piece, went to a -- you guessed it! -- home improvement store and met a friend of coffee, then came home to a missing door, a 1/2 torn out wall and insulation, shavings, and who-knows-what-else covering the counters and floors of home. 02-23-13: The Day My Home Became a Construction Zone.<br />
<br />
Let the kitchen remodel (and mess) begin!<br />
<br />
Stay tuned for upcoming posts:<br />
<br />
*45 Days of Meals Using a Toaster Oven<br />
*How Many Days Can a Paper Plate Be Re-Used?<br />
*Complementary Seasonings for Dry Wall Dust<br />
*I Do <em>What</em> With That Sledge-Hammer?<br />
*The Kitchen Remodel That Almost Took My Sanity (I'm hoping this will be a fictional tale)<br />
<br />
Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-78535084361177310122012-08-25T05:46:00.003-07:002012-08-25T05:46:40.648-07:00Thoughts from a Frantic BrideOkay, so I'm not that frantic, but my mind, emotions, and (sometimes) body are definitely running in Turbo mode these days. 2 weeks to go! I'm super excited and mostly just looking forward to the big day. Fortunately, I haven't hit that "Let's just get this wedding over with!" attitude yet. As busy as things are, I am still enjoying taking care of the little wedding details. It would just be so much easier if that could be my 40-hour-a-week job!<br />
<br />
An update on our lives, for those of you (makes sweeping gesture across audience) I have been delinquent in correspondance with:<br />
<br />
*Kevin and I bought a house! It is in a Western suburb called Plymouth. It's a 3-bedroom, splint-level home built in 1973, with a new sunroom and mudroom addition. It is essentially move in ready, except for a growing list of projects we're coming up with. (By choice, not necessity). The most involved project will be gutting the kitchen and putting in our dream kitchen, stealing ideas from all the kitchens I've drooled over during our house search. As part of the counter-offering, we close on September 13th, the day after we return from our 3-night honeymoon. As romantic as moving that following weekend would have been (especially in the presence of parents, friends, etc.), we decided to postpone the big move until the following weekend. We might be crazy, but we're not that crazy.<br />
<br />
*I found a sub-leaser for my apartment. They'll move in the end of September. This is a HUGE relief, as it will prevent us from having to pay a hefty penalty for breaking my lease. And prevent me from the guilt of breaking a "rule" (For shame, for shame!). I'm just not that kind of kid.<br />
<br />
*Kevin's house is still for sale. Hutchinson is a charming little town if anyone is looking for a vacation home. 6-stall garage - the perfect man cave!<br />
<br />
*Kevin is still looking for a job in the cities. He's had some interviews, but no word yet. Worst case scenario, he'll commute to Hutchinson - but a job's a job.<br />
<br />
In the midst of a lot of uncertainty, we are trusting that all will unfold in due time, just as it's meant to be. Lately Kevin and I have been reflecting a lot (more than usual) on how far we've come in the last year. It's fun to exchange stories of last July and August, when the intrigue and attraction was far more mutual than either of us dared to think. Neither of us could have ever imagined things unfolding how they have, so who are we to try to imagine what the future holds?<br />
<br />
I'm grateful to have a small group of family and friends from the PNW joining us at the wedding. I think it will be a wonderful, wonderful day, though we will certainly miss all of you who aren't able to make it.<br />
<br />
Until Next Time,<br />
Miss Jutila (but not for long)Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-82907355963031453062012-07-06T14:16:00.001-07:002012-07-06T14:16:17.238-07:00Contrary to what you may think, I have not fallen off the face of the earth or chosen to "unplug." I haven't even fallen so ga-ga deep into love that I've cut all communication. Life has just been a whirlwhind.
<br />
<br />
Kevin and I get married 2 months from Sunday. I can't wait but am also embracing this engagement period. Lately I've been reflecting on how quickly each and every phase passes by -- for better or worse.
<br />
<br />
Here's the quick synoposis of Life of The Soon to be Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Lee.
<br />
<br />
Kevin is applying for jobs in the Twin Cities. His house is up for sale (a few showings, no bites). We have a realtor we're working with in Minneapolis and are looking at houses here. We went out and saw 13 houses last weekend and have a couple of houses we're interested in. Our realtor is a stud (Kevin knows I feel this way and is okay with it) and I'm confident he'll find us a great home. It's been a lot of fun, mixed with a little stress. We are so excited to start this next chapter together, and getting to talk about houses makes it all feel so much more real.
<br />
<br />
Wedding plans are "up to date" and we're kind of in a holding pattern until closer to the wedding. Although, I do keep having dreams where I just forget to do things, like forget to get my dress altered or forget to get my hair done. Or that one nightmare where I forgot to put fancy soaps in the church bathroom. The other night I dreamt that my bridal party sang and danced down the aisle to the tune of Meet the Flinstones, complete with chunky-bead necklaces just like Wilma (their idea, not mine).
<br />
<br />
This weekend Kevin and crew (family) are re-shingling his roof. It has been 90-100 degrees for the past week, so... Ish. As of 10pm last night, they were still hydrated, alive, and kicking... haven't gotten an update today so hope they're faring okay.
<br />
<br />
Kevin will be busy with that this weekend so I will be tapping into my Singledom days, which I'm actually looking forward to. I've done pretty well so far, including getting a massage and wandering around a few favorite stores. I have plans to get together with girlfriends throughout the weekend, have two baby shower cakes to bake on Sunday, etc. <br />
<br />
It's going to be a different type of summer, sticking very close to home and without a lot of certain plans. My parents will be here in a couple of weeks, which I'm very much looking forward to, and I'll be making a short trip home in August.
<br />
<br />
So that's about it. Thanks for checking in!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-30164756792356314362012-05-09T04:05:00.000-07:002012-05-09T04:05:56.658-07:00The Real World: Part II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ijmXl_tEfKg/T6pPWvvLz1I/AAAAAAAAAJg/b0X8QaEYX7c/s1600/rinmg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ijmXl_tEfKg/T6pPWvvLz1I/AAAAAAAAAJg/b0X8QaEYX7c/s320/rinmg.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Hx_ex9x-Q8/T6pPW5dNfHI/AAAAAAAAAJs/5rfOudGOqkg/s1600/engagement%2Bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Hx_ex9x-Q8/T6pPW5dNfHI/AAAAAAAAAJs/5rfOudGOqkg/s320/engagement%2Bday.jpg" /></a></div>
Couldn't be happier!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-14820036034362893752012-04-21T07:03:00.003-07:002012-04-21T07:13:41.179-07:00Breakfast of the Month ClubNo, I do not really participate in a Breakfast of the Month Club, but it does sound like a great idea.<br /><br />This blog post is mostly to share my newfound love:<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-orE70NTmUxA/T5K-eY_XYoI/AAAAAAAAAJU/G4Xg9nIowp0/s1600/SCO.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-orE70NTmUxA/T5K-eY_XYoI/AAAAAAAAAJU/G4Xg9nIowp0/s320/SCO.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733854704909640322" /></a><br /><br />Bob's Red Mill Steel Cut oats, in the crockpot overnight. This is where magic happens.<br /><br />When it came time to eat this stuff, I had to enforce some serious self-discipline and portion control. And we're talking oatmeal, not a pint of B&J or <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/salted-caramel-brownies-50400000115182/">Salted Caramel Brownies </a> (which are also delicious).<br /><br /><br />And they're so easy! All you do is:<br />-Fly to Portland, visit Bob's Red Mill factory, and purchase steel cut oats from bulk pins. Or go to your local supermarket.<br />-Put in 1 part oats to 4 cups liquid. I did water with a splash of skim milk)<br />-Add some salt, dump whatever spices strike your fancy (might I recommended cinnamon, vanilla, and fresh grated nutmeg?), add some sweetener (I did a splash of agave syrup which was more than enough)<br />-Plug in your crockpot (very critical), set it to low, and try to sleep. <br />-Suffer from insomnia at 5am, check on crockpot, stir, smell, and smile... try to fall back to sleep.<br /><br />IMPORTANT: When eating, do not douse Steel Cut Oats in butter, brown sugar, raisins, or other distractors. I will allow you to add a splash of milk. But, at least for your first bite, taste it in all it's pure, healthful deliciousness.Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-17517204718079159122012-04-14T05:24:00.003-07:002012-04-14T05:40:57.821-07:00The Other Side of AprilWell, the trip was a blast. We saw a lot of places from my childhood, ate a lot of good food, and (he) met a lot of important people. It meant so much to me to see him with my family. There was a moment where I was sandwiched between my Dad and Kevin on the couch and everything just felt right, being surrounded by the two most important guys in my (worldly) life. <br /><br />Obviously, our relationship grew and deepened - how can it not on a trip like this?<br /><br />A few highlights:<br /><br />-Playing an old-school version of Wall Ball (The real version. Not the self-sacrificing version where you throw a ball at a human target) at my elementary school<br /><br />-A mutual appreciation for exploring health food stores and Bob's Red Mill. I'm glad we can be whole-grain-dorks together.<br /><br />-<a href="http://joythebaker.com/2012/01/chocolate-beet-cake-with-beet-cream-cheese-frosting/">Chocolate Beet Cake</a> (You rock, Afton!)<br /><br />-Quotes from Hannah on Easter:<br />Hannah, whispering to me: "Senia, when did you get your boyfriend?"<br />Me: "Hmm, November?"<br />Hannah: "Oh. ... When did you name him Kevin?"<br /><br />-Many episodes of hysterical laughter with my parents and family. He definitely has a better understanding of why I am the way I am! I am realizing more and more that I am certainly my Mother's daughter.<br /><br />There were of course many, many other highlights, far too many to list.<br /><br />One of the greatest parts is that we were able to be a "normal" couple for 5 days. We were able to escape our reality a little bit and just focus on the great relationship we have. There was a sense of anonymity, which was refreshing. When we ran into a family friend at the grocery store, I was able to happily introduce him as my boyfriend, without fear of them judging him, me, or us. There was no pity for him or surprise or bittersweet emotions. <br /><br />But of course reality was waiting for us Tuesday evening. The last few days have been tough, but we've made it through so far. He has been tremendously supportive of me in the last few weeks, especially through emotional goodbyes and hard transitions. <br /><br />And, so, on we go...Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-34032871254772539392012-04-02T19:15:00.003-07:002012-04-02T19:51:48.542-07:00April updateYou could get a completely different story depending on the time or day of this update. This is the more emotional version...<br /><br />There's no way around it, my relationship with Kevin has been in the forefront of my life for the past 5 months, at least, and realistically, more like 7 or 8 months. But within that I continue to strive to find balance, which has included:<br /><br />-A wonderful visit from Heather, who finally (!) made it to MN to visit me. Maybe there's hope for the rest of you! We had a great time relaxing, doing girl-y things, visiting my favorite hang outs, and chatting away. It was fun to finally host her here, as that's not something I've had the chance to do until now.<br /><br />-I officially survived a year at Courage Center. There were a few moments on my 1-year Anniversary (and in subsequent days) where I thought I might just make it 364 days of employment, but I keep plugging along.<br /><br />-I continue to be blessed with a great network of friends. The most "novel" friendship has been Christine, who lives one floor beneath me. The convenience of popping in and out, doing movie swaps, borrowing ingredients, etc. is something I haven't had before and am really appreciating. Plus, she is always good for a juicy dating story (which I can fully appreciate now that I'm on the "other side," at least for now!)<br /><br />Kevin and I leave for Portland in 3 days... 72 hours to be exact. We are both so looking forward to the trip. These next 3 days could be long, though.<br /><br />Amidst the excitement of this trip and a big step in our relationship (and undoubtedly an incredibly fun, full trip!) comes the sadness, anticipation, and reality of the 1 year Anniversary of Alison's death (April 13). While the reality of our relationship has never fully escaped me, I feel the sting of it more these days. I hurt for Kevin, I worry about what these milestones mean for us, I grieve for her friends and family. I try to be strong but this is a tough path we've found ourselves on. A path that has brought my tremendous joy and that I feel lucky to be on, but also a path that has a painful reality and that I sometimes wish was easier.<br /><br />"Love isn't a decision. It's a feeling. If we could decide who we loved, it would be much simpler, but much less magical."Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-46273818057964768192012-02-28T17:11:00.008-08:002012-02-28T17:29:03.679-08:00<p>One of the things I love most about being with Kevin is that we have a blast doing normal, everyday things together. We cook (and clean up!) together, which is one of our favorite things to do. And we talk about vegetables... a lot. <br /><br />While cooking is definitely Kevin's forte, I've been the designated baker. This last weekend, per his request, we made a cake together so I could teach him a thing or two about baking. Plus, we both happen to be quite fond of cake. Kevin claims he's had minimal baking success in the past, although I'm fairly sure he's just trying to boost my ego since he is already so good at everything else).</p><br />We agreed upon a Hummingbird Cake, which is said to be a cross between banana bread (minus the bread) and carrot cake (minus the cake).<br /><br />If you bake a cake with an engineer, ... You will give him the grunt work, such as fitting the bottom of the cake pan with parchment paper.<br /><br />He will take his assignment very seriously and decide he needs a tape measure:<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BbJoolPX9XM/T01955V5eOI/AAAAAAAAAJE/ty3p0KEtHfc/s1600/measure%2Bclose.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BbJoolPX9XM/T01955V5eOI/AAAAAAAAAJE/ty3p0KEtHfc/s320/measure%2Bclose.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714361935801710818" /></a><br /><br />After a tutorial and demonstration in layer one, Kevin braved the frosting for layer two (and did quite well!)<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sId9yXKeUGc/T018liimKQI/AAAAAAAAAII/fbst-r6NfRo/s1600/frost.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714360486571944194" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sId9yXKeUGc/T018liimKQI/AAAAAAAAAII/fbst-r6NfRo/s320/frost.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Tah dah!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-noIOVfYgQUE/T018ls7ykNI/AAAAAAAAAIU/34yiBkmRidQ/s1600/image201202250002.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714360489361969362" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-noIOVfYgQUE/T018ls7ykNI/AAAAAAAAAIU/34yiBkmRidQ/s320/image201202250002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UlWh4mNsHVM/T0188SshEBI/AAAAAAAAAIw/jlasX2mH0cM/s1600/IMG_1543.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714360877455577106" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UlWh4mNsHVM/T0188SshEBI/AAAAAAAAAIw/jlasX2mH0cM/s320/IMG_1543.jpg" /></a> </p>Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-89105942759420347942012-02-15T16:53:00.000-08:002012-02-15T16:55:22.506-08:00HappinessI've waited a long, long time to have a "real" Valentine's. It was worth the wait!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w-7heXyPlDc/TzxT1RxWoJI/AAAAAAAAAHo/ehvV2S2BOMI/s1600/Vday%2B5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w-7heXyPlDc/TzxT1RxWoJI/AAAAAAAAAHo/ehvV2S2BOMI/s320/Vday%2B5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709530602367525010" /></a>Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-43947842927708810382012-02-10T05:00:00.000-08:002012-02-10T05:09:07.106-08:00Quick UpdateThe weekend in Hibbing was great! Lots of emotions, Sunday especially (seeing Alison's family), but we made it through. Kevin was a stud (He has been granted blog-viewing privileges so now I really have to start hyping him up, should he ever decide to investigate my Secret Blogging Life) - he obviously took heed of the advice from the Beet Cake blogger. He gave me a tour of Hibbing (sort of like Washougal (?), but stretched out, and with a Wal-Mart), I got to see old photo albums, got to know the family, ate a lot of good food... <br /><br />And the weekend was topped off with booking (2!) flights to Portland in April! :-)Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-56333815511502970042012-02-03T13:27:00.000-08:002012-02-03T13:49:43.188-08:00Here We AreJanuary was a good month, but January also felt like a very long month. A lot happened in January, especially in terms of growth in my relationship with Kevin (is this the first time I've given him a name?). I've been staying up late(r) and putting more miles on my car. And I've never cleaned my bathroom so often.<br /><br />I think my faithful blog readers all the know the whole story, so you'll understand when I say we have ours ups and downs. The ups are great, and the downs make us stronger. <br /><br />I'm 1 week (and counting) without Facebook. Not momentous in the grand scheme of things, but it's been a refreshing change. And it just leaves me more time to navigate Pinterest, which is healthier for me right now. And to scheme... like where to go to dinner on Valentine's Day. (I'm looking forward to celebrating my first "real" Valentine's Day, and you better believe I am going to embrace it in all it's commercialism glory.)<br /><br />This weekend is Meet the Parents. Kevin and I are road-tripping up to Hibbing tomorrow AM. I'm excited to make this trip with Kevin, nervous to meet his family, and still marveling at how we got "here." It will undoubtedly be hard, given the circumstances, but I'm hoping for the best. I'm packing my Big Girl Pants, going to look to that cute boy when I need some encouragement, and gonna make the best of it.<br />One of my best friends Pinned a recipe, thinking I would like it. Unbeknownst to her, the actual recipe source had a very timely blog entry: <br />http://joythebaker.com/2012/01/chocolate-beet-cake-with-beet-cream-cheese-frosting<br />(Sorry, couldn't hyperlink it for some reason).<br /><br />Happy Super Bowl weekend!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-81575863345407281922012-01-08T07:54:00.000-08:002012-01-08T08:08:49.522-08:00Change.I've blogged several times about my 9 month transformation since I've been living in Minnesota. Change: I am living in Minnesota and not "going to school in Minnesota."<br /><br />Being in Vancouver (which I do still call home) was great, and I was so thankful to have the opportunity to catch up with so many family and friends. I feel like I fit in as much as I could. It was a great week.<br /><br />I was also excited to come back home to Minnesota. The transition was amazingly smooth.<br /><br />Change has happened. When I go to Vancouver, I know I am visiting.<br /><br />When I get back to Minnesota, I know I am home. For now.<br /><br />Change is coming. I am excited to see what's in store for 2012 (and can't even venture a guess as to what that will look like).<br /><br />Being in a relationship has taught me so much about myself. I have learned to open myself up to others, to expose my vulnerabilities, and to unleash my true thoughts, which I've had a tendency to let swirl around in my head to the point of driving myself crazy.<br /><br />I have learned how much I value the insight of my friends and family.<br /><br />I have learned that there are big things that will always be important and little things that I can let go.<br /><br />I have learned that you can have layers upon layers of happiness. I was happy before, and am even happier now.<br /><br />I have been reminded of how very, very fortunate I am. I have a Faith that will get me through anything. I have two homes. I have family (blood and "surrogate") in both of my homes. I have wonderful friends near and far. I have a long list of people who will sit and listen to hours-upon-hours of my gabbing. I have a great apartment and am employed. I have a boyfriend who makes me feel valued, interesting, and has added many layers of happiness.<br /><br />If only time could just freeze for a minute...Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-89810403651122379472011-12-21T03:46:00.000-08:002011-12-21T03:50:17.275-08:009 Months.Tomorrow I go home for the first time in almost exactly 9 months.<br /><br />A lot can happen in 9 months.<br /><br />Well… a lot besides that can happen in 9 months.<br /><br />According to my calculations, a 23 to 24-year old (because someone can have a birthday in 9 months) can:<br /><br />Go through 1 Costco pack of toilet paper<br /><br />Go through 1 container of shampoo/conditioner (Don’t call me dirty. I promise I bathe regularly)<br /><br />Go through 1 Costco-sized bottle of vanilla extract (I promise I didn’t eat all the baked goods myself)<br /><br />Start a job and start to feel slightly more confident at said job<br /><br />Run two 5Ks and (almost) start to enjoy running (Shh! I didn’t say that aloud)<br /><br />Master Crow Pose (Bonus: without breaking nose or face planting into floor)<br /><br />Find a “groove”<br /><br />Hang pictures up on your apartment walls (This is only noteworthy because, shamefully, it took almost 9 months to do this)<br /><br />Start dating someone.<br /><br />Well, that can technically take 24 years.<br /><br />(I look forward to sharing more details with all 5 of my blog readers when I see you in person in the coming week)<br /><br />This has been an incredible, exciting, life-changing 9 months. I am so thankful!<br /><br />Merry Christmas!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-91303140221700037482011-12-17T06:29:00.000-08:002011-12-17T06:48:26.394-08:00The One Where Senia Didn't Know What to Name Her PostLast night I had 8 girls over (+ a baby!) for visiting and holiday treats. It was so fun to (more or less) have the space and freedom to entertain! I do have ample floor space and even vacuumed the carpet for my guests. What can I say, I go all out. It all went well, even though one of my neighbors chose to cook fish for their Friday lunch and stunk up the hallway.<br /><br />Here's a picture of my centerpiece/party favors: Cupcakes in a jar! They were fun to make and if I had made 100, they would have started lookin' really good! I caught myself making awkward facial grimaces (Think: applying mascara) as I packed the layers.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oKI71Bfn8nQ/TuypuNIjT_I/AAAAAAAAAHQ/GkQcm2iDN14/s1600/cupcakes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oKI71Bfn8nQ/TuypuNIjT_I/AAAAAAAAAHQ/GkQcm2iDN14/s320/cupcakes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687107040726700018" /></a><br /><br />More Christmas festivities and time with friends today and tomorrow, hooray!<br /><br />Look for one more update later this week... "A Lot Can Happen in 9 Months." You will just have to wait and see whether or not I have conceived and grown a baby since I was last home in Vancouver, almost exactly 9 months ago. I know, what a cliff-hanger.Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-13777947329068067012011-12-07T03:55:00.000-08:002011-12-07T04:13:12.199-08:00There's Nothing Simple About a Gingerbread HouseLast night two of my good friends came over to decorate Gingerbread houses (From Ikea, to make your home cozy like the Swedes'). We laughed a lot. We ate a lot of candy. It was super fun and a perfect mid-week diversion!<br /><br />Unfortunately, there were a few casualties:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3_PdLzlniSQ/Tt9V1yjVw_I/AAAAAAAAAGg/Yud0UogqG7E/s1600/Collapse.jpg"><img style="float:center; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3_PdLzlniSQ/Tt9V1yjVw_I/AAAAAAAAAGg/Yud0UogqG7E/s320/Collapse.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683355637356282866" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fodg3_kxUNs/Tt9X5doVAxI/AAAAAAAAAHE/QPULZSZw6uo/s1600/collapse%2B2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fodg3_kxUNs/Tt9X5doVAxI/AAAAAAAAAHE/QPULZSZw6uo/s320/collapse%2B2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683357899482792722" /></a><br /><br /><br />I can only proudly post these pictures of my (still standing, knock-on-wood) house because I had many-a-humbling moments during construction, including a cracked piece right out of the box (which I'd like to blame all subsequent structural problems on), a collapsed roof (x 2), and a broken roof shingle. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_Swzw0QbFw/Tt9Wt8S6ihI/AAAAAAAAAGs/zpV9jFhDOEk/s1600/SJ.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_Swzw0QbFw/Tt9Wt8S6ihI/AAAAAAAAAGs/zpV9jFhDOEk/s320/SJ.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683356602044418578" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bUGzWxn2f5Y/Tt9W15aT95I/AAAAAAAAAG4/8g6hzhJbcj0/s1600/still%2Bstanding.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bUGzWxn2f5Y/Tt9W15aT95I/AAAAAAAAAG4/8g6hzhJbcj0/s320/still%2Bstanding.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683356738709092242" /></a><br /><br /><br />Oh, and note the absence of a chimney? Mine is going to be one of those houses where Santa just needs to come in the front door. At least I can report that the gingerbread is quite tasty!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-18693634248540789812011-11-24T06:34:00.000-08:002011-11-24T06:49:37.788-08:00So ThankfulHappy Thanksgiving, all! <br /><br />I certainly have a great deal to be thankful for. As I've mentioned before, I am thankful for the struggles and hard times I've gone through because they make me even more thankful for where I am today - geographically, emotionally, mentally, physically, socially...<br /><br />Here's just a sampling, in no particular order:<br />-My Faith (well, this is in order)<br />-The 58 degree forecast today: one of the top 5 warmest Thanksgivings in the Twin Cities. I will thoroughly enjoy my Thanksgiving walk today!<br />-A job: to challenge me, keep me out of trouble, work with wonderful people, pay the bills, and pay for FUN.<br />-No homework<br />-Less stress<br />-Family: especially those that will listen to me ramble on and on about things (Mom, Heather, Mary...)<br />-Friends that are willing to take me in on Thanksgiving and treat me like a part of their own families<br />-Old friends<br />-New friends :-)<br />-A fully-functioning body that can do just about anything<br /><br />And random things I'm thankful for:<br />-Chocolate. Let's be honest.<br />-Delicious food<br />-Days off from work<br />-Coffee, Starbucks<br />-Wonderful stores like Trader Joes and Whole Foods<br />-Amazing restaurants serving healthful foods like <a href="http://www.birchwoodcafe.com/">Birchwood Cafe</a><br />-Hot Yoga<br />-My parking garage<br />-An apartment that I love<br />-The internet<br /><br />This is by no means a comprehensive list, but just a few things that come to mind. It would be wonderful to be home with my family, but I look forward to trip home in less than a month!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-30897828732246117552011-11-10T19:03:00.000-08:002011-11-10T19:26:03.115-08:00There's this brief moment when I leave hot yoga, dripping with sweat, happy to know that I've strengthened and stretched my body til I quivered (and am done with the hard work), inspired by a thought-provoking intention, and feel that everything is right in the world.<br /><br />Ahhh.<br /><br />And then life happens.<br /><br />But that one moment is awfully nice.<br /><br />I try not to get too spiritual about yoga, as I certainly believe in "surrendering" to something greater than the sun and earth. During each class, the instructor sets an intention - some profound thought that they share in a soothing, poetic voice, one that might ordinarily make you roll your eyes, but somehow gets you all emotional. Maybe it's the heat and a mild case of dehydraton. <br /><br />Lately I've felt like the instructors have been setting intentions just for me. At first I thought maybe they were interpreting the way I held my butt a certain way in down dog or the fact that no matter how much I do yoga, high to low plank still makes my arms quiver. But then I decided that maybe it's just the way I connect the intention to my own life.<br /><br />Tonight the intention was centered around, "Who am I?" (Don't smirk. I know it sounds cliche.) and how we like to be in control and know what we're doing and where we're headed, but that we're always evolving. Another time it was about "doing" less and "being" more. It all makes perfect sense when you're on the mat, but somehow gets harder to integrate into your own lfe once you step out the door.<br /><br />In other news...<br /><br />Work Snapshot of the Week: In a bathroom stall with a pre-adolescent (all parties fully clothed), discussing the intricacies of wiping and completing a mock-run- including a graphic discussion of how to know when you're done. One of those "I have such a weird job" moments.<br /><br />I'm in a continuing education course today-Saturday. I had one last weekend, too, and it's kind of fun to be a "sponge" again. I find that I'm a much more porous sponge when I'm fascinated by what I'm learning and have clients to apply it to. If you ever want to have a geek-out session, look me up - I am currently fascinated by the auditory system and it's affect on the entire body and pediatric feeding.Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2422410828921104389.post-48250468056287202462011-10-29T16:21:00.001-07:002011-10-29T16:36:54.403-07:00Going back to my (Duluth) rootsI'm up in Duluth for a weekend of catching up with friends -- and eating. Because that's what social people do.<br /><br />On a whim, I stopped by St. Scholastica on my way into town yesterday and visited a few of my OT professors and some other staff I worked closely with. <br /><br />A few instances made me feel old/like I'd been away forever, such as...<br />-Trying to exit through a "door" that's now just a wall.<br />-Asking if a former co-worker was around and hearing, "No, she's still on her maternity leave." Huh? A lot can happen in 9+ months...<br />-Walking around campus with an absence of excessive stress. <br />-Reporting that <span style="font-style:italic;">life is good</span>.<br /><br />Being back in Duluth makes me think back on some good memories and appreciate some solid friendships I made during my time here. But most of all it makes me appreciate where I am now. I know I appreciate the "now" all the more because of all I experienced during my 4 years in Duluth - the good and the bad. For instance, there's (still)( nothing "good" about a wind chill factor - brr!Seniahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09848256921028219751noreply@blogger.com0