Cowboy says I'm genetically naughty. I think it's unfair to accuse me of naughty stuff; mischief just seems to be attracted to my willing personality... I think.
Have recently realized that Admirals do not actually retire from the Navy. My husband is not inclined to be one of those retired (read distinguished) officers who suddenly appear on a major news channel and opine on battles, war zones, and other commanding officers' plans for peace here, there and most everywhere. Instead, he allows the powers that be to consult with him privately. If I thought he had VOLUNTEERED... I'd do something downright awful - not mischievous, of course.
So... after leaving me to wander around the Carolinas, he flew to DC to have a private chat with some military mucky-muck about something that was on a "need to know" basis and I didn't need to know. Tsk. Have I ever mentioned that man's lack of couth?
He came home for a while - ate like he'd been starving. I guess peachy stuff cravings got to him.
"It's you, bambina. Mi manchi I missed you."
Yeah. He missed me so much, he left a few days later. I knew not to ask where he was headed but a helo plucked him from the yard. NO peaches for the squid until he's home again. Double tsk. From wherever he's going, he's returning to the Carolinas to look around some more.
When he called, he asked if I was eating.
Is there a weird moon out there? Of course, I'm eating. OLIVER is my favorite Broadway play. "Food! Glorious food!"
I ate Mac and cheese for breakfast - 5 boxes for me and the critters. I made homemade French vanilla extra creamy ice cream and ate that for lunch. I threw in a few blueberries to assuage my guilt then remembered I don't suffer guilt pains. Food pains, yes. Guilt pains, no. For supper I had a LARGE bag of potato chips and SweetPea, BullyBoy and Tank and I have been working on the squid's wine cellar. None of us are good wine drinkers but we give it a try. BullyBoy burps a lot. SweetPea passes out. I did, too. Woke up on Tank's bed with the beast's head on my chest. Thought a piece of furniture fell on top of me.
I'm thinking pasta primavera for breakfast tomorrow... with a little wine.
Bull came by this evening. He's back on active duty. He promised to cover me with a blanket if I passed out and if I cook something wonderful for him, he won't tell the Neanderthal I live with about the wine. Sometimes I think the marine is a few cans short of a six-pack. Cowboy will see the wine cellar isn't as full as it was when he left. Naturally, I'll accuse the pups of theft. He'll say something smart like "Who opened the bottles of wine for them?" I'll say something sassy like "the wine fairy?" He'll attempt a swat; I'll do something naughty. Tsk. I think life in our house is way too predictable. Help me out with an acceptable response, okay?
David called several times already to remind me not to be naughty. Honestly folks, is there a "mischief" pandemic going on. I'm as innocent as a babe and pure as the driven snow. No mischief around me. Well... maybe it's something in the wind. I mean... I don't even like wine. And I better check the chocolate stashes and make sure there's enough to last a while...
On a sad note, one of the beautiful Beluga whales at the zoo died recently. Depressing. I jumped in the pool one day to swim with them. Nobody at the zoo was happy about that but the people visiting the zoo encouraged me. I don't need a lot of encouragement to get into mischief. Oops! I won't tell you what the squid said... and did. About his stuffy old-man ways and his total lack of couth... if they sold it at Sear's AND JC Penny's, I'd buy out both inventories but I don't think that would be enough. He's very tall, bossy too.
Okey dokey, time to plop ice cream into a bowl of wine. I mean glass of wine, honest.
~Sar~
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Friday, June 05, 2009
Catchin' Up
Hi! Remember me? Sometimes, I'm not sure who I am either. Life has been chaotic and before I know it, the day has flown by and I'm too pooped to think of anything but bed.
Cowboy flew to Baltimore for the Preakness race, then spent a few days at the Naval Academy. He met up with a few old buddies and since I didn't see any "arrest" reports on the evening news, I guess they had a designated driver and/or were too old to get into any real trouble. Speaking of o-l-d... he just had a birthday. More about that later.
While he was away, the critters and I were on our own - except David and Bull who dropped by here and there to EAT! I'm trying some new recipes and they're the taste testers. A couple I will NEVER make again - pepper and/or cardamon in brownies is just plain awful. (I should try them in peach dishes...)
I haven't written anything in almost a year but lately, some characters are yelling in my head. They want to get out. It's a possibility they'll make it to my web site in the not-too-distant future.
And... David's retirement ceremony was held over Memorial Day weekend. We flew in and out of DC, stayed long enough to witness the ceremony, attend the retirement ball and take the red-eye home. David stayed. He has a condo in the area and wanted to spend time with friends. He'll be home this weekend. While we were at the retirement ball, one of Cowboy's former subordinate officers - a sexy brunette Lieutenant Commander with Dolly Parton attributes - asked Cowboy to dance. I said his dance card was already full. She ignored me and in a most unlady-like manner, pulled the Neanderthal onto the dance floor. Since he didn't object, I said - very quietly, of course - that I had no one to dance with. Didn't take long to fill my own dance card... which did not please my husband. I think he was jealous; that always makes me happy.
Later, Cowboy said it was only one damn dance!
Tsk. That man swears at the oddest times. Such ungentlemanly behavior. I told him that was conduct unbecoming an officer and that it was a good thing he had already retired. I suspect he was inclined to let his hand respond but fortunately, David whisked me away for a dance.
Some squids simply lack couth. (Not that marines are any better.)
I slept on the flight home because... that's what I do.
Meanwhile, Harpo and Lucy Ricardo, the Dobie pups we're fostering have been moved to the outdoor kennels. Joining them is Hawthorne, the Leonburger mix.
I let all 3 dogs join my 3... in the backyard to play and it's a real joy to see my Rotts interact with the younger dogs. BullyBoy plays only for a short while, then lays on his back airing out his undies while they play. They have to jump over the beast when they zip across the yard.
Interestingly enough, Hawthorne stands on his hind legs against a tree when I'm climbing it. I think he wants to climb, too. He also whimpers when I'm reclined on a high branch.
Cowboy doesn't lean when he spots me up there in the sky. He glares, growls, threatens, and in general, disrupts the quiet of the afternoon. Did I mention a lack of couth?
"Did I mention a blazing fire on your parte inferiore bottom?
Tsk.
I managed to dance at the last full moon. That old man I live with isn't quite as swift as he used to be...
SWAT!
I was able to wear my new leg warmers and danced clear across the yard and back before he caught me! T'was glorious!
So was the fun that followed. Did you know there's a full 9-piece band hidden in my backyard! It played right on cue!
Cowboy had a birthday a few days ago. We had a small party - just a few friends - one of them is a fireman. I purposely invited him and his wife because there was an inferno of candles on Cowboy's cake...
SWAT!
The giant squid is sooooo old it took all of us plus him to blow the candles out.
SWAT!
Tsk. The truth hurts, huh?
He had a variety of peachy sweets and that made him very happy. However, his memory is totally shot. He couldn't remember how old he was so the birthday spanking that somehow landed on my backside was started and stopped several times over because he kept losing count. Between you and me, I think he does that on purpose.
Got an email from a reader about my story site. It seems she recognized one of my stories... It was posted on another site, plagiarized by someone who posted it as her own. Unfortunately, that's one of the downsides to the Internet. Even though all my work is copyrighted and registered with the U.S. Library of Congress, some folks think you'll never notice. Very sad.
Do I owe you an email? Probably. I haven't been online that much in the last few months - traveling, cooking for a crowd, creating fiber art, more traveling, etc. Eventually I'll write back. Please know I haven't forgotten you, am not ignoring you, just busy as I've ever been.
It's June, it's summer... I'm thinking about the upcoming 4th of July picnic, red/white/blue cupcakes, doggie get together in my yard, homemade Twinkies, the stash of jelly beans I discovered in the hall closet, Lindor white chocolate truffles. I ate about half of a very large package of them when I was browsing in the bookstore. Can't remember if I paid for them... Also fondling my new-ish leg warmers and in my head, choreographing a sexy dance for the next full moon.
~Sar~
Cowboy flew to Baltimore for the Preakness race, then spent a few days at the Naval Academy. He met up with a few old buddies and since I didn't see any "arrest" reports on the evening news, I guess they had a designated driver and/or were too old to get into any real trouble. Speaking of o-l-d... he just had a birthday. More about that later.
While he was away, the critters and I were on our own - except David and Bull who dropped by here and there to EAT! I'm trying some new recipes and they're the taste testers. A couple I will NEVER make again - pepper and/or cardamon in brownies is just plain awful. (I should try them in peach dishes...)
I haven't written anything in almost a year but lately, some characters are yelling in my head. They want to get out. It's a possibility they'll make it to my web site in the not-too-distant future.
And... David's retirement ceremony was held over Memorial Day weekend. We flew in and out of DC, stayed long enough to witness the ceremony, attend the retirement ball and take the red-eye home. David stayed. He has a condo in the area and wanted to spend time with friends. He'll be home this weekend. While we were at the retirement ball, one of Cowboy's former subordinate officers - a sexy brunette Lieutenant Commander with Dolly Parton attributes - asked Cowboy to dance. I said his dance card was already full. She ignored me and in a most unlady-like manner, pulled the Neanderthal onto the dance floor. Since he didn't object, I said - very quietly, of course - that I had no one to dance with. Didn't take long to fill my own dance card... which did not please my husband. I think he was jealous; that always makes me happy.
Later, Cowboy said it was only one damn dance!
Tsk. That man swears at the oddest times. Such ungentlemanly behavior. I told him that was conduct unbecoming an officer and that it was a good thing he had already retired. I suspect he was inclined to let his hand respond but fortunately, David whisked me away for a dance.
Some squids simply lack couth. (Not that marines are any better.)
I slept on the flight home because... that's what I do.
Meanwhile, Harpo and Lucy Ricardo, the Dobie pups we're fostering have been moved to the outdoor kennels. Joining them is Hawthorne, the Leonburger mix.
I let all 3 dogs join my 3... in the backyard to play and it's a real joy to see my Rotts interact with the younger dogs. BullyBoy plays only for a short while, then lays on his back airing out his undies while they play. They have to jump over the beast when they zip across the yard.
Interestingly enough, Hawthorne stands on his hind legs against a tree when I'm climbing it. I think he wants to climb, too. He also whimpers when I'm reclined on a high branch.
Cowboy doesn't lean when he spots me up there in the sky. He glares, growls, threatens, and in general, disrupts the quiet of the afternoon. Did I mention a lack of couth?
"Did I mention a blazing fire on your parte inferiore bottom?
Tsk.
I managed to dance at the last full moon. That old man I live with isn't quite as swift as he used to be...
SWAT!
I was able to wear my new leg warmers and danced clear across the yard and back before he caught me! T'was glorious!
So was the fun that followed. Did you know there's a full 9-piece band hidden in my backyard! It played right on cue!
Cowboy had a birthday a few days ago. We had a small party - just a few friends - one of them is a fireman. I purposely invited him and his wife because there was an inferno of candles on Cowboy's cake...
SWAT!
The giant squid is sooooo old it took all of us plus him to blow the candles out.
SWAT!
Tsk. The truth hurts, huh?
He had a variety of peachy sweets and that made him very happy. However, his memory is totally shot. He couldn't remember how old he was so the birthday spanking that somehow landed on my backside was started and stopped several times over because he kept losing count. Between you and me, I think he does that on purpose.
Got an email from a reader about my story site. It seems she recognized one of my stories... It was posted on another site, plagiarized by someone who posted it as her own. Unfortunately, that's one of the downsides to the Internet. Even though all my work is copyrighted and registered with the U.S. Library of Congress, some folks think you'll never notice. Very sad.
Do I owe you an email? Probably. I haven't been online that much in the last few months - traveling, cooking for a crowd, creating fiber art, more traveling, etc. Eventually I'll write back. Please know I haven't forgotten you, am not ignoring you, just busy as I've ever been.
It's June, it's summer... I'm thinking about the upcoming 4th of July picnic, red/white/blue cupcakes, doggie get together in my yard, homemade Twinkies, the stash of jelly beans I discovered in the hall closet, Lindor white chocolate truffles. I ate about half of a very large package of them when I was browsing in the bookstore. Can't remember if I paid for them... Also fondling my new-ish leg warmers and in my head, choreographing a sexy dance for the next full moon.
~Sar~
Sunday, April 19, 2009
My Man
I'm sure you've read about the Navy Seal snipers that took out those Somali pirates that had a ship's captain hostage on a lifeboat. It's been more than a few days since the brave man was rescued but my husband - a former Navy Seal - is still high from that event. I don't think his feet have touched ground since it happened. His happiness over the rescue and pride in that Seal Team is contagious. Can't help smiling at the joy on his face. Also got to say I'm thrilled he is no longer an active participating member of those Teams.
I got home in time to enjoy Easter dinner, Passover seders and a lot of my favorite foods courtesy of Glory's cooking. I LOVE the holidays. Glory outdid herself with a few new dishes that will be on my recipe link in the not-too-distant future. I hadn't eaten as much as I thought I did while I was away; Cowboy frowned when he saw me - after he hugged me - and said if I was down more than 5 pounds I wouldn't be sitting comfortably for a while.
Rollin me eyes, here.
Vi distracted him while I stuffed my mouth with apple strudel, a couple of heavily buttered cinnamon rolls, chocolate-to-die-for pudding cake, two glasses of milk and a Twinkie that happened to be in my pocket. Lost five pounds on the dot. Phewwwwwww, close call.
Got a swat anyway! Tsk.
I ate everything in sight up to, during, and after the holiday meals. And... I added soft cushions to all the chairs that weren't already padded - just in case.
Pups were happy to see me. I was happy to see them. Cats pretended they didn't know I was gone but checked out my duffel bag. I had some catnip treats in it and we were all friends again. The tortoise hid in her shell until I waved a Twinkie in front of her and we're back on friendly terms as well.
David is HOME! He made it back in time for Easter dinner. Looking thinner but still arrogant, egocentric Marine. Was that redundant? I got a hug and a kiss when his helo dropped him off on the beach. That was followed by a demand for chicken and dumplings, Boston cream pie and corn chowder - in any order. Glory made sure he got all three items.
Bull was back home in Arkansas for Easter with his family and back up here for Passover. That boy has GROWN. (Cowboy says I shouldn't call him a boy; he's in his early 30's.) Compared to my ancient husband, he's a boy.
SWAT!
Tsk.
We left David, Bull, Max, Glory and Vi at David's house and came home to spend a little alone time. Reunions are always wonderful.
There's a new pooch in my kennels. We rescue pure breed dogs - the large varieties. The main reason is that most people prefer to rescue, foster and adopt smaller dogs - except for Lab and Retriever breeds. Those are thought to be of a gentler temperament and let's face it, a large breed dog that needs fostering, etc has an unknown temperament and a rescuer might very well be a little cautious. Fearless me - a trait that often gets me in the doghouse with the giant squid who lives with me, doesn't mind a challenge. This particular dog, however, is not a pure bred canine. He's a mixed breed - LARGE - but so far, a bit of a doofus. He reminds me of a Leonburger and may have some of that breed in him. Very red, long hair fur, black muzzle, web feet, but no tail! Leonburgers have long tails. His nose is pushed in - very odd on a dog that weighs 90-100 lbs or more. And... he has crooked teeth.
"Where did you get this dog?" I innocently asked.
"It was wandering around the Navy base. It's large. Needed rescuing."
"You were at the Navy base?" BLINK!
"So I brought it home for you to train."
"You were at the Navy base?"
"Ate everything in the fridge so I kenneled it. It needs a name."
"What were you doing on base?"
"Reminds me of a Navy Commander I once knew. Hawthorne was his name."
"I'm surprised the K-9 unit didn't chase him away."
"Nawwwww, Hawthorne liked dogs."
"Cowboy!"
His amusement can be overbearing. And... Hawthorne has no manners. He also slobbers and if you praise him, he licks your face. DomTom, my cat, sits on the back deck to watch while I attempt to train the beastie without getting drowned in slobber. When the dog rolls over to nap, the cat jumps on its back and kneads its neck. That cat is more fearless than I am. When I relayed this to the giant squid, he wanted to know what I'd do if he rolled over. Ohhhhhh, so many possibilities here!
SWAT!
LOL!
We left Harpo and Lucy Ricardo, Dobie pups, out at David's house. They've become very attached to Max and he enjoys their company. When Max and his ladies go back home - New Orleans, Gulfport and Chicago, they may adopt a Dobie from the local shelter. Taking these two with them is not an option. They've never had a dog and traveling with them would be a huge challenge.
Other: My tulips are blooming; the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weeping cherry trees are just beginning to bloom. We've had a tremendous amount of rain so the trees are too slick to climb yet. I think Cowboy is getting too old and frail to climb up after me. I can't wait to recline on a branch and enjoy a good book.
"You'll be reclining on your belly if you do!"
Tsk. Who said that?
Plus... I've missed a few full moons, winter, traveling, etc. I'll be dancing under its glow at the next one!
"Wanna bet?"
Double tsk. I have new leg warmers I have to try.
"That's not all that's gonna be warm!"
Did you hear anything? Neither did I.
~Sar~
I got home in time to enjoy Easter dinner, Passover seders and a lot of my favorite foods courtesy of Glory's cooking. I LOVE the holidays. Glory outdid herself with a few new dishes that will be on my recipe link in the not-too-distant future. I hadn't eaten as much as I thought I did while I was away; Cowboy frowned when he saw me - after he hugged me - and said if I was down more than 5 pounds I wouldn't be sitting comfortably for a while.
Rollin me eyes, here.
Vi distracted him while I stuffed my mouth with apple strudel, a couple of heavily buttered cinnamon rolls, chocolate-to-die-for pudding cake, two glasses of milk and a Twinkie that happened to be in my pocket. Lost five pounds on the dot. Phewwwwwww, close call.
Got a swat anyway! Tsk.
I ate everything in sight up to, during, and after the holiday meals. And... I added soft cushions to all the chairs that weren't already padded - just in case.
Pups were happy to see me. I was happy to see them. Cats pretended they didn't know I was gone but checked out my duffel bag. I had some catnip treats in it and we were all friends again. The tortoise hid in her shell until I waved a Twinkie in front of her and we're back on friendly terms as well.
David is HOME! He made it back in time for Easter dinner. Looking thinner but still arrogant, egocentric Marine. Was that redundant? I got a hug and a kiss when his helo dropped him off on the beach. That was followed by a demand for chicken and dumplings, Boston cream pie and corn chowder - in any order. Glory made sure he got all three items.
Bull was back home in Arkansas for Easter with his family and back up here for Passover. That boy has GROWN. (Cowboy says I shouldn't call him a boy; he's in his early 30's.) Compared to my ancient husband, he's a boy.
SWAT!
Tsk.
We left David, Bull, Max, Glory and Vi at David's house and came home to spend a little alone time. Reunions are always wonderful.
There's a new pooch in my kennels. We rescue pure breed dogs - the large varieties. The main reason is that most people prefer to rescue, foster and adopt smaller dogs - except for Lab and Retriever breeds. Those are thought to be of a gentler temperament and let's face it, a large breed dog that needs fostering, etc has an unknown temperament and a rescuer might very well be a little cautious. Fearless me - a trait that often gets me in the doghouse with the giant squid who lives with me, doesn't mind a challenge. This particular dog, however, is not a pure bred canine. He's a mixed breed - LARGE - but so far, a bit of a doofus. He reminds me of a Leonburger and may have some of that breed in him. Very red, long hair fur, black muzzle, web feet, but no tail! Leonburgers have long tails. His nose is pushed in - very odd on a dog that weighs 90-100 lbs or more. And... he has crooked teeth.
"Where did you get this dog?" I innocently asked.
"It was wandering around the Navy base. It's large. Needed rescuing."
"You were at the Navy base?" BLINK!
"So I brought it home for you to train."
"You were at the Navy base?"
"Ate everything in the fridge so I kenneled it. It needs a name."
"What were you doing on base?"
"Reminds me of a Navy Commander I once knew. Hawthorne was his name."
"I'm surprised the K-9 unit didn't chase him away."
"Nawwwww, Hawthorne liked dogs."
"Cowboy!"
His amusement can be overbearing. And... Hawthorne has no manners. He also slobbers and if you praise him, he licks your face. DomTom, my cat, sits on the back deck to watch while I attempt to train the beastie without getting drowned in slobber. When the dog rolls over to nap, the cat jumps on its back and kneads its neck. That cat is more fearless than I am. When I relayed this to the giant squid, he wanted to know what I'd do if he rolled over. Ohhhhhh, so many possibilities here!
SWAT!
LOL!
We left Harpo and Lucy Ricardo, Dobie pups, out at David's house. They've become very attached to Max and he enjoys their company. When Max and his ladies go back home - New Orleans, Gulfport and Chicago, they may adopt a Dobie from the local shelter. Taking these two with them is not an option. They've never had a dog and traveling with them would be a huge challenge.
Other: My tulips are blooming; the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the weeping cherry trees are just beginning to bloom. We've had a tremendous amount of rain so the trees are too slick to climb yet. I think Cowboy is getting too old and frail to climb up after me. I can't wait to recline on a branch and enjoy a good book.
"You'll be reclining on your belly if you do!"
Tsk. Who said that?
Plus... I've missed a few full moons, winter, traveling, etc. I'll be dancing under its glow at the next one!
"Wanna bet?"
Double tsk. I have new leg warmers I have to try.
"That's not all that's gonna be warm!"
Did you hear anything? Neither did I.
~Sar~
Sunday, March 29, 2009
High & Dry!
...Abandoned, neglected, jilted, ignored, alone...
That's what Cowboy's been saying, whining about, complaining, moaning, etc as only a male can. It's even worse when he's not feeling 100%.
Why?
'Cause I'm out of town, away, gone, absent, and geographically elsewhere.
I'm on a multi-city gallery tour with other fiber artists. We're zipping into a city, displaying some of our works in galleries, zipping to the airport to fly to yet another city, and repeating the whole process all over again. Originally, we had 7 cities on our tour; the tour producer just added 3 more so I'll be away a little longer than originally planned. We're covering a few spots across the North American continent including a few Canadian cities, crisscrossing back and forth from west to east and back to west coast. It's exhilarating meeting new audiences but tiring as well. After a day and evening on my feet I'm ready to order room service and hit the sack before doing it all over again the next day.
The perks are spending time with other artists whose ideas are very inspiring, sort of like going on a creative retreat. Also, I accepted a couple of commissions that are extremely large and will probably take about a year to create and finish. That's exciting.
Meanwhile, the giant squid had complained that I'm away during the peak peach harvest and he's missing out on his favorite food baked in numerous ways purely for his enjoyment. Groannnnnn
I suggested he could stuff his mouth with the pure fruit and get all emotional over that.
His response was lacking in couth.
Of course, he could have gone on the tour with me and/or met me for a few days in one of the cities where he could sight see or eat in wonderful places. He declined the invitation because he'd get hassled into doing some of the labor (hanging art), packing, unpacking, fetching, etc. I thought that would be better than sitting in a corner pouting... but that's just me. When I mentioned this in a phone call home, he said he was jotting down all these non-sequiturs and would make me pay later. Yeah, yeah. Promises, promises.
Bottom line: He misses me and is getting a tiny taste of what I went through when he sailed off to the wild blue yonder all those years I waited for him at home.
He takes the ferry out to the San Juans to David's house about once a week. He needs Glory's cooking, Vi's fussing and the company of Max and Bull. Also, the smell of the Pacific Ocean is a constant for his peace of mind. He generally hauls all the critters with him although he says the cats continue to ignore him. The three Rotts will go anywhere and David's house is their 2nd home. The Dobie pups are growing by leaps and bounds and utterly fascinated with Torty the giant tortoise. The tortoise is not at all fascinated with them and stays hidden in her shell house for hours on end. Harpo, the male Dobie barks at Torty to come out and play. Lucy Ricardo, female pup, insisted on going nose to nose with her. Torty lost her tortoise demeanor and nipped the pup. Lucy leapt on Bull's lap and cried Doberman puppy tears. The cats still fight over which one of them gets to nap on her back. Cowboy relayed all this and said "See what you're missing by going off and leaving us alone?"
Rollin me eyes here.
Not long after I get home, the giant squid will be off to the east coast to take care of some personal business. If he has time, he'll check out a few houses in Virginia (where we lived when we were first married), the Carolinas, and I don't know where else. On the way, he'll escort Max and Vi and Glory to New Orleans and take a peek at Gulfport, MS where they still have numerous friends who survived Katrina. When they're settled, he'll go onto other ports of call.
Max is almost back to 100% from his stroke. Not only has he had excellent nursing care and therapists who really worked to help his muscles relearn their duties, he's had great incentive from Vi and Glory. Both ladies were determined that Max keep a strong and positive attitude about life and both ladies displayed some very creative ways to maintain his interest. Enough said.
I had all kinds of checkups before I left home. Have a couple more appointments when I get back - dental work. UGHH I do not like people poking around in any part of my body, and certainly not in my mouth. Cowboy warned me not to have a mouth full of salt water taffy when I see the dentist. Tsk. That's so much more visually esthetic than a mouth filled with unswallowed chocolate. I wonder if I can find strawberry or cherry taffy to make my mouth look like it's bleeding? That ought to shake up the dentist (who has zero sense of humor.) The last time I went I brought the Mastiff. The only problem with that is he kept goosing the dental assistant. Apparently she didn't find any humor in that. However, if I bring the Rott, he'll sit in a corner, watch (actually stare and glare) and intimidate everyone. Hmmm... goosing Mastiff or intimidating Rott? Decisions, decisions.
"You could leave the beasts at home!" declared the giant squid.
Tsk. What fun would that be?
I'll be home in time for Passover and Easter. Glory will do all the cooking. I love the meal preparations but it's okay to let her take charge; she loves bossing everyone around. And it's possible David will be home in time for the holidays. He's been away too long and eating Marine food isn't quite as satisfying as eating Glory's cooking.
Speaking of Marines... Cowboy said Bull has a new lady friend. He's been seeing her about 4 months now - off and on - and the girl must be smitten because she's taking cooking lessons... I suggested Cowboy tell her to take lessons in "restaurant - size" portions if she's going to cook for Bull. Cowboy said there's a swat or two in my future.
Tsk.
~Sar~
That's what Cowboy's been saying, whining about, complaining, moaning, etc as only a male can. It's even worse when he's not feeling 100%.
Why?
'Cause I'm out of town, away, gone, absent, and geographically elsewhere.
I'm on a multi-city gallery tour with other fiber artists. We're zipping into a city, displaying some of our works in galleries, zipping to the airport to fly to yet another city, and repeating the whole process all over again. Originally, we had 7 cities on our tour; the tour producer just added 3 more so I'll be away a little longer than originally planned. We're covering a few spots across the North American continent including a few Canadian cities, crisscrossing back and forth from west to east and back to west coast. It's exhilarating meeting new audiences but tiring as well. After a day and evening on my feet I'm ready to order room service and hit the sack before doing it all over again the next day.
The perks are spending time with other artists whose ideas are very inspiring, sort of like going on a creative retreat. Also, I accepted a couple of commissions that are extremely large and will probably take about a year to create and finish. That's exciting.
Meanwhile, the giant squid had complained that I'm away during the peak peach harvest and he's missing out on his favorite food baked in numerous ways purely for his enjoyment. Groannnnnn
I suggested he could stuff his mouth with the pure fruit and get all emotional over that.
His response was lacking in couth.
Of course, he could have gone on the tour with me and/or met me for a few days in one of the cities where he could sight see or eat in wonderful places. He declined the invitation because he'd get hassled into doing some of the labor (hanging art), packing, unpacking, fetching, etc. I thought that would be better than sitting in a corner pouting... but that's just me. When I mentioned this in a phone call home, he said he was jotting down all these non-sequiturs and would make me pay later. Yeah, yeah. Promises, promises.
Bottom line: He misses me and is getting a tiny taste of what I went through when he sailed off to the wild blue yonder all those years I waited for him at home.
He takes the ferry out to the San Juans to David's house about once a week. He needs Glory's cooking, Vi's fussing and the company of Max and Bull. Also, the smell of the Pacific Ocean is a constant for his peace of mind. He generally hauls all the critters with him although he says the cats continue to ignore him. The three Rotts will go anywhere and David's house is their 2nd home. The Dobie pups are growing by leaps and bounds and utterly fascinated with Torty the giant tortoise. The tortoise is not at all fascinated with them and stays hidden in her shell house for hours on end. Harpo, the male Dobie barks at Torty to come out and play. Lucy Ricardo, female pup, insisted on going nose to nose with her. Torty lost her tortoise demeanor and nipped the pup. Lucy leapt on Bull's lap and cried Doberman puppy tears. The cats still fight over which one of them gets to nap on her back. Cowboy relayed all this and said "See what you're missing by going off and leaving us alone?"
Rollin me eyes here.
Not long after I get home, the giant squid will be off to the east coast to take care of some personal business. If he has time, he'll check out a few houses in Virginia (where we lived when we were first married), the Carolinas, and I don't know where else. On the way, he'll escort Max and Vi and Glory to New Orleans and take a peek at Gulfport, MS where they still have numerous friends who survived Katrina. When they're settled, he'll go onto other ports of call.
Max is almost back to 100% from his stroke. Not only has he had excellent nursing care and therapists who really worked to help his muscles relearn their duties, he's had great incentive from Vi and Glory. Both ladies were determined that Max keep a strong and positive attitude about life and both ladies displayed some very creative ways to maintain his interest. Enough said.
I had all kinds of checkups before I left home. Have a couple more appointments when I get back - dental work. UGHH I do not like people poking around in any part of my body, and certainly not in my mouth. Cowboy warned me not to have a mouth full of salt water taffy when I see the dentist. Tsk. That's so much more visually esthetic than a mouth filled with unswallowed chocolate. I wonder if I can find strawberry or cherry taffy to make my mouth look like it's bleeding? That ought to shake up the dentist (who has zero sense of humor.) The last time I went I brought the Mastiff. The only problem with that is he kept goosing the dental assistant. Apparently she didn't find any humor in that. However, if I bring the Rott, he'll sit in a corner, watch (actually stare and glare) and intimidate everyone. Hmmm... goosing Mastiff or intimidating Rott? Decisions, decisions.
"You could leave the beasts at home!" declared the giant squid.
Tsk. What fun would that be?
I'll be home in time for Passover and Easter. Glory will do all the cooking. I love the meal preparations but it's okay to let her take charge; she loves bossing everyone around. And it's possible David will be home in time for the holidays. He's been away too long and eating Marine food isn't quite as satisfying as eating Glory's cooking.
Speaking of Marines... Cowboy said Bull has a new lady friend. He's been seeing her about 4 months now - off and on - and the girl must be smitten because she's taking cooking lessons... I suggested Cowboy tell her to take lessons in "restaurant - size" portions if she's going to cook for Bull. Cowboy said there's a swat or two in my future.
Tsk.
~Sar~
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Counting...
my blessings. February has been an outstanding celebration at our house. There's been outrageously delicious chocolate treats, imported chocolates, and plenty of naughty-but-nice threats, dares, activities, festivities, orchestras and nights dancing the tango - on the dance floor and elsewhere.
As o-l-d as the giant squid is, he's still got what it takes to make me glad I married him. More than one of you has asked exactly how old is he? O-L-D!
SWAT!
LOL!
Valentine's day was spectacular! A few days before the holiday I received a lunch invitation in the mail. It was from 11-year old Patrick. He said he'd pick me up at 12 on the dot and to please wear a dress and look like a lady. Hmmm... I thought... I don't look like a lady? And then I wondered if I was driving since it will be a few years before Patrick can get a license...
I wore a floor-length "dance" dress with a beret and short gloves. Patrick rang the doorbell at 12 on the dot wearing a really smart suit Santa brought for Christmas. He handed me a single red rose that I promptly put between my teeth. A LIMO was in the driveway and a tall fellow - chauffeur - was leaning on the driver's door. It was the giant squid! And he was wearing a chauffeur's jacket and cap! I had to smother my giggles. Then Patrick had to smother his when the chauffeur opened my door and gave me a not-so-gentle swat when I bent over to get in the car. Tsk.
As soon as we were seated in the limo, Patrick opened 2 containers of instant chocolate pudding that we devoured before our chauffeur backed out of the driveway. Sigh That's my boy.
He took me a local Mom & Pop place I favor where we had steaks, fries and root beer. Mom and Pop served us themselves. Cowboy came into the restaurant and stood in an obscure place and watched us the whole time. I think he was jealous because Patrick and I had our heads together, whispering sweet nothings... about his bloodhound, his Segway, the letter he is thinking of composing to Santa. I taught him to get those letters in early and often... couldn't hurt.
The bill had been prepaid and we had ice cream in the limo drizzled with hot chocolate syrup. I imagine Mom & Pop took care of that detail. It was absolutely a delicious Valentine's present from our favorite belongs-to-somebody-else child... er... young man.
Patrick repeated the whole "date" with his Mom that evening for dinner. Bull was chauffeur and this time Butler, his bloodhound, went along for the date. Butler is a service dog and can go into restaurants when he's wearing his service dog jacket.
I asked the giant squid what he was going to do to make my Valentine's day as special as Patrick had done. In turn, he asked me the SAME question. I had ideas of my own but I have to admit, as wonderful as Cowboy's plans were, and they were! I was really overwhelmed by Patrick's thoughtfulness.
Other: Did I tell you we are fostering two Doberman puppies? They're very young, about 12-14 weeks when we got them, their ears already bandaged to make them stay upright. Wasn't sure about that but we're fostering, not adopting, so I didn't comment when the rescue group turned them over. Have had them a few weeks now; they're too young to stay in the kennels so I've kept them in the house. Housetrained them immediately... they are as goofy as puppies can be. Tripping over their feet, occasionally placing a paw in their food dish, slobbering on the cats, not sure about stairs, and yearn to be lap dogs. The cats have adopted them; washing their faces, smacking them if they nip too hard, etc. I've named them and renamed them several times. So far, it's Harpo and Lucy Ricardo because they're both giant clutzes.
Washington state is a "peach" growing state, a fact the giant squid is always reminding me. At the moment, nectarines are sweeter and firmer than peaches and if he doesn't know I've used them in a recipe... he's none the wiser.
"I know the difference between peaches and nectarines, imp!"
"Yeah, yeah and you can name and find all the countries that end with "stan" on the map. Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Bet you can't do that."
"Maybe not but I can see a spanking in your future, your immediate future."
People... the man has not gained any couth since he retired. And... I noticed he didn't have any trouble devouring the nectarine upside down cake I made.
More: I noticed I haven't been able to log into a few blogs lately... Cassie, PK, Eva... tsk. I know I'm not posting regularly or even been online much lately. However...
Max and Vi and Glory are staying out at David's house, enjoying some privacy and giving us some. Max is doing remarkably well and it won't be long before the trio will be off to visit friends in New Orleans.
February and March are filled with annual, semi-annual and quarterly medical appointments. Because of my overactive thyroid I get that checked often. I think medics draw straws... Honestly, I've been quite mellow recently; I haven't hit, bit or kicked anyone lately. Wellll there was that one incident with the blood sucking vampires... but reasonable people would find that understandable. I mean... when you know you're going to be in a small room with a couple of vampires, you bring holy water and a large cross... just in case. Was it my fault I also brought two Rottweilers and a wooden stake? Maybe next time, I should leave the wooden stake at home.
~Sar~
As o-l-d as the giant squid is, he's still got what it takes to make me glad I married him. More than one of you has asked exactly how old is he? O-L-D!
SWAT!
LOL!
Valentine's day was spectacular! A few days before the holiday I received a lunch invitation in the mail. It was from 11-year old Patrick. He said he'd pick me up at 12 on the dot and to please wear a dress and look like a lady. Hmmm... I thought... I don't look like a lady? And then I wondered if I was driving since it will be a few years before Patrick can get a license...
I wore a floor-length "dance" dress with a beret and short gloves. Patrick rang the doorbell at 12 on the dot wearing a really smart suit Santa brought for Christmas. He handed me a single red rose that I promptly put between my teeth. A LIMO was in the driveway and a tall fellow - chauffeur - was leaning on the driver's door. It was the giant squid! And he was wearing a chauffeur's jacket and cap! I had to smother my giggles. Then Patrick had to smother his when the chauffeur opened my door and gave me a not-so-gentle swat when I bent over to get in the car. Tsk.
As soon as we were seated in the limo, Patrick opened 2 containers of instant chocolate pudding that we devoured before our chauffeur backed out of the driveway. Sigh That's my boy.
He took me a local Mom & Pop place I favor where we had steaks, fries and root beer. Mom and Pop served us themselves. Cowboy came into the restaurant and stood in an obscure place and watched us the whole time. I think he was jealous because Patrick and I had our heads together, whispering sweet nothings... about his bloodhound, his Segway, the letter he is thinking of composing to Santa. I taught him to get those letters in early and often... couldn't hurt.
The bill had been prepaid and we had ice cream in the limo drizzled with hot chocolate syrup. I imagine Mom & Pop took care of that detail. It was absolutely a delicious Valentine's present from our favorite belongs-to-somebody-else child... er... young man.
Patrick repeated the whole "date" with his Mom that evening for dinner. Bull was chauffeur and this time Butler, his bloodhound, went along for the date. Butler is a service dog and can go into restaurants when he's wearing his service dog jacket.
I asked the giant squid what he was going to do to make my Valentine's day as special as Patrick had done. In turn, he asked me the SAME question. I had ideas of my own but I have to admit, as wonderful as Cowboy's plans were, and they were! I was really overwhelmed by Patrick's thoughtfulness.
Other: Did I tell you we are fostering two Doberman puppies? They're very young, about 12-14 weeks when we got them, their ears already bandaged to make them stay upright. Wasn't sure about that but we're fostering, not adopting, so I didn't comment when the rescue group turned them over. Have had them a few weeks now; they're too young to stay in the kennels so I've kept them in the house. Housetrained them immediately... they are as goofy as puppies can be. Tripping over their feet, occasionally placing a paw in their food dish, slobbering on the cats, not sure about stairs, and yearn to be lap dogs. The cats have adopted them; washing their faces, smacking them if they nip too hard, etc. I've named them and renamed them several times. So far, it's Harpo and Lucy Ricardo because they're both giant clutzes.
Washington state is a "peach" growing state, a fact the giant squid is always reminding me. At the moment, nectarines are sweeter and firmer than peaches and if he doesn't know I've used them in a recipe... he's none the wiser.
"I know the difference between peaches and nectarines, imp!"
"Yeah, yeah and you can name and find all the countries that end with "stan" on the map. Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Bet you can't do that."
"Maybe not but I can see a spanking in your future, your immediate future."
People... the man has not gained any couth since he retired. And... I noticed he didn't have any trouble devouring the nectarine upside down cake I made.
More: I noticed I haven't been able to log into a few blogs lately... Cassie, PK, Eva... tsk. I know I'm not posting regularly or even been online much lately. However...
Max and Vi and Glory are staying out at David's house, enjoying some privacy and giving us some. Max is doing remarkably well and it won't be long before the trio will be off to visit friends in New Orleans.
February and March are filled with annual, semi-annual and quarterly medical appointments. Because of my overactive thyroid I get that checked often. I think medics draw straws... Honestly, I've been quite mellow recently; I haven't hit, bit or kicked anyone lately. Wellll there was that one incident with the blood sucking vampires... but reasonable people would find that understandable. I mean... when you know you're going to be in a small room with a couple of vampires, you bring holy water and a large cross... just in case. Was it my fault I also brought two Rottweilers and a wooden stake? Maybe next time, I should leave the wooden stake at home.
~Sar~
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A New Year!
At long last, we are having decent weather - chilly, slightly damp, lots of fog and the sun peeking out for a long 5-minute stretch here and there. I'm hopeful the snow and really awful stuff is over for now. We're at home and as much as we enjoyed staying at David's house on the ocean, it's always good to be home.
Max and Glory and Vi are still with us; Max's nurse may be leaving this weekend. We're hoping for good news from the doctor. Max is doing really well; he stands unassisted, walks a few steps on his own but can get around with a walker. His speech is getting clearer all the time; everyone can now understand all the naughty words he shouts for no particular reason... He's reading a little; learning to cheat at chess (not that I would know anything about that)... has a lot to say about the lack of fine cigars in his daily routine and the state of the world in general.
Patrick is still with us and will probably be going home soon. His mom has been away on business and expects to return any day now. We'll miss him. We'll also miss him flying through the house - dog in tow - on his Segway. Santa brought him one for Christmas and he has become addicted to speeding under his own power.
David is overseas again. I'm hoping this is his last tour and that he will retire this spring. Bull goes back and forth between our house and David's house and is giving serious consideration to leaving the Marine Corps when he fulfills his latest commitment.
The giant squid... is still recuperating from RUN AMOK WEEK!
Oh t'was glorious!
I outdid myself.
We had several peachy moments, a melted chocolate wrestling match, he vs. me pushups. (He had to do one-armed pushups while trying to toss me off his back - I won!) There were crunches while balancing me on his knees (Tsk. Ended up on his lap but fortunately, the band was tuning up and started to play.) We had a whispered tug-a-war with dares and threats and ended up in the closet... Naughty Vi hung a do-not-disturb sign on the door. One night when everyone else was in bed, we passed out on the living room floor in front of the fire. Woke up with dogs pushed up against our sides and all the cats sleeping on our bellies. The critters tried to follow us into the shower to continue the love fest but the giant squid managed to lock the door before a paw or a muzzle could wiggle its way inside.
I took a page from Cassie's blog... on one occasion when Cowboy was up before me and in the shower... I threw ice water over the shower door and it hit him as he was drying off. He bellowed... unadmirally phrases and I got the hell out of dodge!
Slid down the banister... the giant squid chasing me down the stairs. He was wearing a towel... He grabbed my arm; I grabbed his towel and Patrick segwayed by and asked nobody in particular... "Why is the Admiral running around in his birthday suit?"
Couldn't help myself. I laughed.
The giant squid yelled.
Then I yelled and made threats.
Unfortunately, he's bigger than I am and his threats were carried out as soon as we were back in our bedroom. Then the band tuned up and we were at it again.
Never a dull moment in our house. And...
In just a few days, it will be February! Chocolate month!
~Sar~
Max and Glory and Vi are still with us; Max's nurse may be leaving this weekend. We're hoping for good news from the doctor. Max is doing really well; he stands unassisted, walks a few steps on his own but can get around with a walker. His speech is getting clearer all the time; everyone can now understand all the naughty words he shouts for no particular reason... He's reading a little; learning to cheat at chess (not that I would know anything about that)... has a lot to say about the lack of fine cigars in his daily routine and the state of the world in general.
Patrick is still with us and will probably be going home soon. His mom has been away on business and expects to return any day now. We'll miss him. We'll also miss him flying through the house - dog in tow - on his Segway. Santa brought him one for Christmas and he has become addicted to speeding under his own power.
David is overseas again. I'm hoping this is his last tour and that he will retire this spring. Bull goes back and forth between our house and David's house and is giving serious consideration to leaving the Marine Corps when he fulfills his latest commitment.
The giant squid... is still recuperating from RUN AMOK WEEK!
Oh t'was glorious!
I outdid myself.
We had several peachy moments, a melted chocolate wrestling match, he vs. me pushups. (He had to do one-armed pushups while trying to toss me off his back - I won!) There were crunches while balancing me on his knees (Tsk. Ended up on his lap but fortunately, the band was tuning up and started to play.) We had a whispered tug-a-war with dares and threats and ended up in the closet... Naughty Vi hung a do-not-disturb sign on the door. One night when everyone else was in bed, we passed out on the living room floor in front of the fire. Woke up with dogs pushed up against our sides and all the cats sleeping on our bellies. The critters tried to follow us into the shower to continue the love fest but the giant squid managed to lock the door before a paw or a muzzle could wiggle its way inside.
I took a page from Cassie's blog... on one occasion when Cowboy was up before me and in the shower... I threw ice water over the shower door and it hit him as he was drying off. He bellowed... unadmirally phrases and I got the hell out of dodge!
Slid down the banister... the giant squid chasing me down the stairs. He was wearing a towel... He grabbed my arm; I grabbed his towel and Patrick segwayed by and asked nobody in particular... "Why is the Admiral running around in his birthday suit?"
Couldn't help myself. I laughed.
The giant squid yelled.
Then I yelled and made threats.
Unfortunately, he's bigger than I am and his threats were carried out as soon as we were back in our bedroom. Then the band tuned up and we were at it again.
Never a dull moment in our house. And...
In just a few days, it will be February! Chocolate month!
~Sar~
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Quick Note
A longer update will have to be postponed. We're in the middle of a blizzard; the power is intermittent. We're on 2 generators but computer use is limited to a very few minutees for the time being.
So this is a reminder: Hanukah just started; we're using a new menorah someone gave me; it's beeeeeuuuuuutiful! Christmas is this week, HURRAY! and..... are you sitting?
RUN AMOK WEEK starts Friday!
Oh Joy!
I have delicious plans to keep the giant squid less than calm... uh... I mean on his toes. Well... it's not easy to have a house full of company during this very special once-a-year week. And we're not even at home; we're at David's house in the San Juans. But I'm female - ergo - I'm resourceful.
I shared my plans with Glory and Vi who - naturally - thought there were some dadgum good ideas they needed to imitate. Poor Max, mostly confined to bed, won't be able to chase them. I think he'll be tickled though - Vi and Glory are beautiful women with a really naughty streak.
About our blizzard. Very rude of Mother Nature to do this to us. Blizzards are supposed to happen in North Dakota and Minnesota, maybe a mild one in Nebraska. Here in the mild temps of Washington state, it's against the law to dump more than 4 inches of snow in a 24-hour period except on very special occasions, like Sadie Hawkins Day.
I bundled up and sneaked onto the back deck to let the dogs out. Wowzers! It was mostly a whiteout but I noticed the Pacific winds were blowing huge waves up in the air and the water churned as those waves became incoming tide. A hugely awesome sight; I ran back into the house to get my camera.
Pretend there are sirens here: The giant squid caught me, growled some nonsense about the weather... coughing, sneezing, hateful green medicine, toasted buns (mine) etc.
I retaliated with no peachy things, no me, (not sure which should be listed first), cooks on strike and dogs in his bed.
The Neanderthal SWATTED me! But he did go out on the deck to capture those waves.
Later, Vi gave me a chunk of coal to put in his stocking. "Why do you have a chunk of coal with you?" I asked. She arched a brow. Okay, not asking any more questions. I feel certain this is something I don't need to know.
There were more swats when Cowboy came back into the house. I may have to revise my plans for Run Amok Week. He deserves the really naughty stuff.
Happy Holidays, my friends. Wishing you much joy and delightful memories for the New Year.
~Sar~
So this is a reminder: Hanukah just started; we're using a new menorah someone gave me; it's beeeeeuuuuuutiful! Christmas is this week, HURRAY! and..... are you sitting?
RUN AMOK WEEK starts Friday!
Oh Joy!
I have delicious plans to keep the giant squid less than calm... uh... I mean on his toes. Well... it's not easy to have a house full of company during this very special once-a-year week. And we're not even at home; we're at David's house in the San Juans. But I'm female - ergo - I'm resourceful.
I shared my plans with Glory and Vi who - naturally - thought there were some dadgum good ideas they needed to imitate. Poor Max, mostly confined to bed, won't be able to chase them. I think he'll be tickled though - Vi and Glory are beautiful women with a really naughty streak.
About our blizzard. Very rude of Mother Nature to do this to us. Blizzards are supposed to happen in North Dakota and Minnesota, maybe a mild one in Nebraska. Here in the mild temps of Washington state, it's against the law to dump more than 4 inches of snow in a 24-hour period except on very special occasions, like Sadie Hawkins Day.
I bundled up and sneaked onto the back deck to let the dogs out. Wowzers! It was mostly a whiteout but I noticed the Pacific winds were blowing huge waves up in the air and the water churned as those waves became incoming tide. A hugely awesome sight; I ran back into the house to get my camera.
Pretend there are sirens here: The giant squid caught me, growled some nonsense about the weather... coughing, sneezing, hateful green medicine, toasted buns (mine) etc.
I retaliated with no peachy things, no me, (not sure which should be listed first), cooks on strike and dogs in his bed.
The Neanderthal SWATTED me! But he did go out on the deck to capture those waves.
Later, Vi gave me a chunk of coal to put in his stocking. "Why do you have a chunk of coal with you?" I asked. She arched a brow. Okay, not asking any more questions. I feel certain this is something I don't need to know.
There were more swats when Cowboy came back into the house. I may have to revise my plans for Run Amok Week. He deserves the really naughty stuff.
Happy Holidays, my friends. Wishing you much joy and delightful memories for the New Year.
~Sar~
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