Boffo Panda

Patience

2012-02-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

is so not my virtue!

I do an hour of Zumba, get in the car, look down at my legs and think, "what the hell? Why am I not smaller?"

Ha!

I so want the immediate gratification but I also know that I didn't eat one cupcake and turn into an obese person.

It sneaks up.

And so does the good.

I'm practicing the patience part.

No More Excuses

2012-01-23T20:12:00.000-08:00

This hit me today, while talking to my dear, dear Kristin - that maybe one of the reasons it took me this long to go on this weight loss journey is that once I did this, there'd be no more room for any kind of excuses.

I wouldn't be able to say, "I can't" or "it's impossible".

Because I'm doing the "impossible" right now.

Dammit! Why didn't I think of this sooner!! :)

Confidence

2012-01-21T20:24:00.000-08:00

Here's my face at officially 30 lbs. less than it was on Nov 21, 2011.

I'm trying to not say: "but I have so much more to lose".

I've lost 30 lbs. in 2 months!! I am SO doing this!!

I don't know if people are noticing...I haven't heard much in that arena. But I am seeing some differences - in my face, loser clothes, loser rings, etc.

One of the biggest differences though is my confidence - or lack of self-consciousness.

I'm still overweight, still want to lose over 100 lbs - but I feel GOOD. I know it's because even though I weigh xxx lbs right now, the feeling of hopelessness is gone. I'm in action.

I'm confident.

Suck on that, shame. ;)

Shame

2012-01-17T19:38:00.000-08:00

Been turning this one over and over - I really didn't want to share about my weight loss journey because in the past, when I'd share, and then fail, I would feel so much shame. To have to tell people or answer questions or have people see me gaining it back or to stop trying.

It's scary.

This is coming up right now because I went for an opportunity that I really wanted and it didn't work out and I find myself wishing that I just hadn't shared it with anyone so I don't have to now share that I didn't get it.

More on this soon(er or later).

Like I said, it's scary.

ZOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMb-AHHHHHHHHHHHHH

2012-01-11T10:06:00.000-08:00

So I did an hour of zumba with my JoJo on Monday night. I SO did not want to go. And 10 minutes in, I was thinking, no way. I can't do this. My arms are already killing me.

Then an hour later, I had did the whole hour and am going back for more twice a week!

At some point, I just told myself that I was going to do it - to keep going. I modified it some (as the instructor instructed that she was going to bounce off the walls and we shouldn't feel like we needed to keep up with her supreme bouncey level of zumba).

So yeah, at some points, I was just doing the African Anteater Ritual but it worked my shit over and I did it.

I am doing it. ;)

Out Loud

2012-01-09T09:40:00.000-08:00

I said it out loud to people last night.

I've lost 22.5 lbs. in 7 weeks.

Then I immediately said, "but I've still got, like 200 lbs. to go".

Which isn't true (but I'm not ready to discuss numbers yet).

Why can't I just celebrate the accomplishment and not undermine with a second statement like that?

Because it's true. And sometimes it feels unsurmountable.

And there you go.

Ch-Ch-Changes

2012-01-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

Time to pat myself on the back as week 7 comes to a close.

I'm down 22.5 lbs. and 45.25 inches on last check (last checked 2 weeks ago and I get that checked again this week, I think).

In 49 days, I haven't had sugar, fast food, diet soda (or any other soda), caffeine, or alcohol and very, very little salt/sodium. I also eat all meats sitting at the table (not in front of the TV) and use my dishes, silverware, etc. (so nice to not eat off a wrapper!).

I drink 100 oz. of water a day (and pee myself silly).

Every night, I plan what I'll be eating the next day and then just follow that plan. I weigh and measure everything I eat.

I'm down about 2 sizes in jeans but can't really find any that fit right now so I bought a new, smaller belt {stupid smaller waist with bigger butt!}.

I cut my knee shaving the other day because I'm not used to the smaller surface area. ;)

I rock. :D

Deprivation 2

2012-01-08T16:10:00.000-08:00

I can see that any choice in my life leaves me "deprived".

Choosing to not have children deprives me of buying cute, tiny clothes and watching them grow up and the kind of love that only people with children know. But having children would deprive me of sleeping in, freedom to do what I want, when I want, etc.

I think it's the same with anything. Being married, jobs, etc.

When I choose one thing, I'm also choosing to not have the opposite - aka: there are pros and cons to everything.

So far, not having cake is less of a con than a smaller ass.

So far. ;)

Deprivation

2012-01-05T11:36:00.000-08:00

I went to a class at Metabolic Research Center called "Making New Year's Resolutions that Work".

One of the points in a 10 point approach is "ditch the deprivation perception". The idea being to look at this diet plan as a lifestyle change, a choice, a commitment to yourself and my health.

Sitting there, I had an A-HA moment. I was thinking, "yeah, I'm committed but I am depriving myself of chocolate, tacos and what-not". BUT - I could have those things and then be depriving myself of being thin, healthier, wearing cute clothes, going on beach vacations unselfconsciously, etc. So either way, there's "deprivation" going on. It's just a matter of which one I want to live more without (or with).

Choice {word for 2012}

2012-01-02T11:12:00.000-08:00

Also, choose, choosing.

I haven't done resolutions for years. And let's face it, I never really "did" them, even when I made them. A big part of the reason was that they were always too broad - lose weight. That's pretty overwhelming - and can still be overwhelming, but I'm focusing on choice.

Dictionary.com, defines choice as an act or instance of choosing. Choosing is defined as selecting from a number of possibilities; picking by preference - or to prefer or decide, to want, desire.

None of these quite ring true for me and I'm choosing {see what I did there? ;)} more the definition - or distinction from the Landmark Forum....

The Nature of Choice

The power to choose is uniquely human. We all have a high interest in shaping the course of our lives – making the right choices and pursuing what is important to us. One commonly held view regards choice as merely reacting to, or selecting among, the existing options. Here we take another view.

In this section, we explore choice as a profoundly human ability to create. When choice is understood and known in this way, what had previously seemed simply part of “the way things are” – inevitable or impervious to change – appears in a new light. We find ourselves able to choose – to have a say – about who we are and who we will be, as the author of our lives in any and all situations.

Word.

That's it. Exactly.

I'm creating a life I want, that's important to me. I have the say, the power to make it so.

I think William Ernest Henley said it best:
"I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul."

Today is day 43 of my weight loss journey. I've lost 19.5 lbs. and at last check, 45¼ inches. It's still a long road and some days, I feel like I'll never get there (patience has never been one of my strong suits). But really, I do know I will get there. I keep choosing and I've never felt so sure. In the last 43 days, I've faced Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, Birthdays and dinners out (and last night, a majorly fantastic looking cake that seemed to be calling to me). And I've made the choices that align with my goals and commitments to myself and my health. What's more, I'm more present and happy. Deliriously happy that my commitments and actions are finally matching up.

I think that's part of the heartache involved in anything we say we want but do not have. Every time I make a choice that's not aligned with what I say I want, I beat myself up and tell myself that I'm "bad" and "wrong" and other not nice things. Then I become what I believe - someone who doesn't keep her word (to the most important person, myself) and then my actions match up with someone who doesn't keep her word and down the rabbit hole I go.

I believe I can do this. I am doing this. I am making myself proud.

No Pie? No Ham? No Cheesecake?

2011-12-23T10:09:00.001-08:00

One of the things that's been interesting to me while doing a weight loss plan during the "HOLIDAYS" is that I'm left to wonder what these holidays are about when I take food out of the equation.

I plan my meals one day ahead and for Thanksgiving, I planned on turkey, green beans, yams with berries for dessert. Then it hit me. No pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving??!?! How is it Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie?

So I really started looking. What is Thanksgiving without pie, without stuffing myself till I hurt, without food? For me, it was a really fun day with friends who are family, playing games and laughing. And I ate well and was satisfied. I wasn't hungry. I wasn't stuffed and I didn't feel guilty.

Something to definitely be thankful for.

It came up again for Christmas - what? no ham? No cheesecake? Nope. I'm making a beef roast, green beans, yams and an apple/pineapple fruit thing for dessert. But I'm not giving up the presents!! And next year, I'll be looking for some new clothes under the tree!!

I'm also practicing being conscious and present to what I do have - not what I "can't" have.

And, as far as what I "can't" have, I had my fair share of all of that stuff (and probably your share too). I definitely didn't miss out in life on all the goodies and desserts and all that. And not to say I'll never have them again but for now, I'm not and so far, so good. :)

Weighting Game

2011-12-21T19:06:00.000-08:00

I started a weight loss program on Mon/Nov 21 (yes, Thanksgiving week). And as of Mon/Dec 19 (day 29), I've lost 17 lbs. I've got a long way to go but I've lost 17 lbs. so far - and during the holidays.

The program is with Metabolic Research Center and I'd heard of them and had many several appointments in the last year but never made it in.

I finally went in and was so moved by the women working there and the success stories and photos, that I cried. I think it was because of something I had given up on long ago - HOPE.

I've been overweight for over 20 years - probably closer to 25 years - and let's face it - actually morbidly obese (is there a worse term in the world?) for 10-15 of those years.

Of course, I'm impatient and want to be thin NOW. This is my mantra that's keeping me going though...

I just decided today that I'm going to write and share about this journey. And that scares the shit out of me (almost as much as the journey itself).

More soon....

Glad No Matter What

2010-11-12T12:54:00.000-08:00

SARK just released her newest - and 16th book: Glad No Matter What: Transforming Loss and Change into Gift and Opportunity.

I love this book and it has softened me. I'm also one of the featured Portraits of Joy & Transformation in the book and doing this opened my heart wider.

She's playing games on her blog and I'm going to play too....

Transforming What Hurts Into What Helps

Share one thing in your life that's challenging or difficult, and one thing that you're glad about that challenge or difficulty. Something like this:
"I sometimes feel overwhelmed with all there is to do in my life and business, and am glad that I am healthy and able to do things" That reminds us of the "marvelous, messy middle" of feelings. I call it "Practical Gladness" This will further develop your transformational abilities.

Here's mine:

I'm overwhelmed by the trip I'm taking home next week and want to be able to visit everyone and spend lots of time with all my friends and family and I'm glad that I am loved and have so many to love.

Want to play too? Go here:

http://www.sarkjournal.com/2010/11/i-had-my-inner-critics-arrested-and-so-can-you.html

Secret Thoughts

2009-03-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

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For a good part of my life, I've walked around wondering what people are thinking of me. And to be honest, I haven't been "wondering". I've been telling myself what people are thinking - and it's usually never something positive. And maybe they are actually thinking whatever terrible things I think they're thinking.

But right now I'm thinking more about the good things people think. These "people" could be complete strangers, your closest friends and family and everyone in between too.

I wonder how many times we think a good thought about someone and not share it with them? I know it can be really akward to share a good thought with a stranger, "I love your hair, dress, smile, eyes, etc." I remember my husband telling a woman that he liked her dress and she seemed to react as if he was trying to pick up on her.

But what about the people we love the most? Are we telling them? And I mean really telling them? The kind of stuff that people stand up and say at a funeral. The things that you whisper to someone on their deathbed.

My brother Michael died in November last year. Evidently, he'd been carrying around a deep pink tourmaline stone for 15 years. I received it for my 40th birthday last week. Michael gave it to our brother Bobby when Bobby was there about a month before Michael died. Bobby sent it to me with a card that read, "in his last days he made it a point to get it to you! What a smile on his face as he made me promise to get it to you! He sure loved you, sis."

I know he loved me. And while I am grateful to have this now and will forever cherish it. I wish I had known when he was here. I also wish I had shared with him earlier what I ended up telling him as he slipped in and out of consciousness in November.

Don't wait another second. We don't have that kind of time.

Make time. Share your good, secret thoughts.

Risk.

Love and be loved.

On Turning 40

2009-03-13T14:39:00.000-07:00

I turned 40 on Wednesday, the 11th.

You know how people sometimes ask you on your birthday, "do you feel any different?" And you might say to yourself, "I don't. Is that bad? Should I feel different?" Or you might stand in front of a mirror like Molly Ringwald in 16 Candles and examine your body for changes. And not really notice anything different. That's been my experience, anyway.

I feel completely different and completely unchanged all at the same time.

I keep saying "I'm 40" in my head and then getting a little freaked out. The immediate follow up question is, "how is that even possible?" People who are older than 40 roll their eyes at my freaked out-edness. People who are younger than 40 (but older than 30) look at me and tell me I don't look 40. I like these people. A lot. :) The under 30 people cannot be trusted so I don't ask them. :)

When I was 10 years old, 40 sounded really old (heck, 30 sounded really old). The truth is, it still does. I didn't think I would ever be 40 and especially not be 40 and still get pimples (total bs, people). But I also never dreamed I would be so blessed...with love and friends and dreams come true. And a hair dresser who can cover the gray so beautifully. :)

Getting older can be scary but I'm actually looking forward to those reading glasses with the rhinestones. I hope to wear them on a chain around my neck and search around the house for them for hours. And then forget what the hell I was looking for in the first place. It's going to rock.

6 Things That Make Me Happy

2009-02-19T14:57:00.000-08:00

Woz from The Bubble Gum Inspiration tagged me for the Six Things That Make Me Happy meme. I don't know what meme is. But here are 6 Things That Make Me Happy.

1. Playing kickball. We just started on an indoor league and I was so happy the first time I kicked the ball - first time in probably 28 years - and I did good! Running from 2nd to home however made me want to lie down.

2. Finding old friends and classmates on Facebook. And remembering cool stuff with them - like Naugles.

3. Molly standing on her hind legs to look out the window at squirrels.

4. When I make someone laugh so hard, they spit out their drink.

5. Skating in a circle to 80s music.

6. Every second with Malcolm.

Here are the Rules for this meme: Link to the person who tagged you. Post six things that make you happy along with these rules. Then tag six others (letting them know, of course). Let the person who tagged you know when your entry is complete.
I'm tagging Caution: Human Being, Kristin's Good Life, And That's Why I Travel, Dandelion Seeds. I'm tagging 4 instead of 6 - breaking rules makes me happy! :)

Looking forward to your lists!

Part of Life

2009-02-06T17:38:00.001-08:00

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I put a mini Landmark Forum leader in my head the other day. I was having one of those days and I thought, what if I got up and shared this at the Landmark Forum? How would the leader coach me? I came to a conclusion rapidly after that.

I was stuck in the "what ifs" and basically living in the past. I, like most people, have had my heart broken - put my trust into another person and found out that one person's "forever" is well, not.

So, I was what iffing myself - what if my husband doesn't really love me? What if he leaves me? What if, what if, what if?

Is it really worth it? Is loving someone and trusting them with your heart worth it? Because the pain of them not loving you anymore - or maybe having not loved you at all - can be unbearable. Maybe it's better to just be alone and not have that pain in your life. Or possible pain. Or worry about the possible pain. (And for the record, my husband didn't and doesn't do anything to cause my doubt - that's all me choosing to live in the past in those moments of doubt).

And then the LF Leader in my head asked me what about the people in my life who die? Isn't that painful? Doesn't it hurt to lose them?

Yeah, I thought - but that's just part of life. I wouldn't give up my mom now because she'll die later. It's going to hurt, sure, but I can just cherish every moment I have with her NOW. Because dying is just a part of life.

OH!

What if loving someone and being hurt is part of life too?

And what if everything is just a part of life - getting stuck at the railroad tracks when you're late for work, stubbing your toe, picking up dog poop, etc.? It's all part of life.

And all we really have is right now anyway. The possibility of being hurt still exists but I'm choosing the possibility of love right now instead.

Cure~All

2009-01-24T14:27:00.001-08:00

I completely agree with Anne Lamott as quoted in my blog banner - and it's where I got the name for my blog - “…the secret to life is obvious: be here now, love as if your whole life depended on it, find your life’s work, and try to get hold of a giant panda. If you had a giant panda in your backyard, anything could go wrong -- someone could die, or stop loving you, or you could get sick – and if you could look outside and see this adorable, ridiculous, boffo panda, you’d start to laugh; you’d be so filled with thankfulness and amusement that everything would be o.k. again.”

A panda is a total cure-all.

And that's why I had to have this purse which arrived in the nick of time. ;)

It also helps to have friends who are willing to do this with your new panda purse...

I love the Candace. :)

Explosion of Sadness

2009-01-23T08:01:00.001-08:00

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angel at the foot of the dogwood tree

planted in memory of my brother Michael

November 2008, Tennessee

"You cannot prevent the birds of sadness from passing over your head, but you can prevent their making a nest in your hair”

~ Chinese proverb

I haven't wanted to feel it.

So I push it down.

down

Packing it tight.

Ignoring, pretending, nodding.

Holding it

tight.

It all came pouring out yesterday.

All.of.it.

I discovered that I think that it's not okay to be sad. And it's especially not okay to share your sadness (your sorrow, your out-right grief) with others. If someone asks you "how are you?", the only safe answer is "fine". Especially for me. I'm the funny one, the fun one, the one who makes you shoot your drink out of your nose with laughter.

But all that faking just leads me deeper down the hole. I managed to throw out a rope and my husband and my Julie were there to pull me out. To help me untangle the nest.

The next time you ask me how I am, you may just hear the truth.

And you still shouldn't drink liquids around me. ;)

Freeze Frame

2009-01-18T18:56:00.000-08:00

"In 20 years, you’ll look back at photos of yourself and recall in a way you can’t grasp now how much possibility lay before you and how fabulous you really looked." ~ Mary Schmich

I saw a picture of myself the other day and started picking it apart. "I'm too this; I'm not enough that." Then I remembered the event and how much fun it was, who was there, how hard I laughed. How happy I was.

From now on, I'm practicing focusing on the fun, the love and the laughter and not what my hair looked like or how squinty my eyes get when I smile.

Because in the end, it's the love we give and receive that matters. Not what we looked like while doing ~ and being ~ the love.

Courage

2009-01-06T08:36:00.000-08:00

"Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow." ~Mary Anne Radmacher

And sometimes courage is dressing up like a crazy cat lady for your friend's skate party because the evite said to dress "silly".

Isn't that right, Dr. Horrible?

Perfection

2008-12-14T14:05:00.000-08:00

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Rebecca and me at a Christmas party, 12.11.08

This picture could look better. It's a little blurry, I would have preferred it to be more zoomed-in, we were supposed to be posing but were cracking each other up instead.

So, yeah. It could look better. But I don't see how it could be better. Two friends with their arms around each other, laughing and truly enjoying each other. What could be better?

I've been wrestling with my perfectionism lately. Well, longer than lately but I've been more present to it lately. Moving to a new house, trying to figure out where to put everything, getting overwhelmed and being stuck. Being completely stopped.

My mantra has become, "you're not stuck with anything." I've been practicing just making a decision - "the dishes will go in this cupboard" - and knowing that if that doesn't work or something else seems better later, the dishes can easily be moved to another cupboard. I've also had to take it much slower this time around as I've been ill and also grieving. This is not an easy task for me - taking it slow - letting go. I want everything in its place and I want it to be ~ perfect.

I am starting to realize, like with the picture above, so much can be missed while waiting on perfection. And it really doesn't matter what cupboard the dishes are in. ;)

My Mom

2008-12-11T08:49:00.000-08:00

my mom, 2008 - her 73rd birthday at King Estate Winery in Eugene, OR

I wonder why some people think that having a baby - the actual act of a baby growing inside them - makes them a mom? I don't have kids nor have I ever been pregnant, so I won't pretend to know. I can only speak for myself and for my own experience.

I was adopted so I didn't "grow inside my mom's tummy" - or as I tell her - "just because I didn't come out of your vagina doesn't make you any less my mom". She loves when I talk to her like that. ;)

I know with 100% certainity that this woman was meant to be my mom. We were meant to be together and adoption was the way it had to happen. She had four boys and wanted a girl - or as she put on the paperwork she wanted "a girl with brown eyes who was cuddly". Sometimes I think she got more than she bargained for. ;)

I've been reading Boho Girl's blog - she just adopted a baby and as far as I can tell, all the feelings are the same. The pure joy, the unconditional love, the welcoming of the baby into the family. The fact that a baby doesn't have to grow inside you to make you a mother.

The fact that my mom is the best mom I could have ever grown beside.

my mom, 2008 - Scandanavian Festival in Junction City, OR

Frazzled

2008-12-08T11:31:00.000-08:00

Some days are just like this. There's just no getting around it. And actually, some weeks, some months and even some years are like this.

I have a cough that won't go away which makes it difficult to sleep which makes it difficult to function.

We moved the weekend of Thanksgiving and the boxes are fewer but still overwhelming. Not to mention the fact the guilt from the voice telling me that we need to put up our Christmas tree and decorations soon. And the fact that I don't even know if I want to.

I'm pretty sure Christmas comes whether or not you put up a stocking for your dog or a teapot shaped like a snowman (which was a gift from your mom so you really should put it out).

In spite of all this (and other complaints and worries) - I'm looking for joy where ever I can find it....

...finding baskets at Goodwill for $1 and then seeing very similar baskets at Bed, Bath and Beyond for $15.

...a squirrel tight rope walking across the electrical line in the backyard.

...sharing candy with friends at a movie about a dog who thinks he has super powers and a hamster who steals the show.

...sunny days in Oregon in early December.

I'm going to unpack some more - and go to the doctor today. And look for joy in every moment.

My Big Brother

2008-11-15T08:05:00.000-08:00

Michael Dean Glenna
Born: 9.20.56
Passed: 11.12.08

I miss you, big brother.

Proud to Be an American

2008-11-04T20:49:00.001-08:00

Gonna party like a Barack star....

We Believe in Fairies

2008-10-31T21:18:00.000-07:00

on Halloween and always.

our magical neighbor Charli (on the right)
and her BFF, Riley.

and our fairydog, Molly.

"Come Fairies, take me out of this dull world,
for I would ride with you upon the wind
and dance upon the mountains like a flame!”
~ William Butler Yeats

Coming Home

2008-10-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like coming home after a weekend away to a gorgeous man handing you pink roses with nothing but love in his eyes.

I am loved. I know it. I feel it.

I deserve it.

The Moon Tonight

2008-10-13T19:55:00.000-07:00

"May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night and smooth road all the way to your door." ~Irish blessing

Gratitude

2008-10-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

My husband got a job today. Today, on the last day of his severance pay. He starts Monday.

Thank you for all the love and support - here and in all areas of our life.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Why Be Grateful?

2008-09-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

A quick glimpse at my life right now can easily lead anyone to believe that there is not much to be grateful for.

My husband was laid off earlier this year and his severance (and benefits) are over this week. My brother has been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. The doctors speculate that he could be gone in the next 2 to 8 months.

I'm living in a land mine of questions that are currently unanswerable. Is that job going to pan out? Will we be able to stay here in Eugene? If not, where will we go? How long does my brother really have? Should I go to Tennesse now or wait till he comes back to California with my mom? And of course, the always popular why and what if? So...why be grateful?

I was very lucky to just complete a 40 day gratitude program called Gratitude Groove with my dear and beautiful friend, Kristin. We spoke on the phone every day and talked through daily exercises together. I realized that I can be grateful - no matter what.

My brother may not live past 6 months - but I am grateful to know this now so that I can spend as much time as possible with him and make sure he knows how much he is loved. It also helps me remember that we really don't know how much time anyone has left - and we shouldn't waste a single second of it - the time to love yourself and love your friends and family is NOW. And love everyone else too.

Malcolm's job situation is not optimal but we are better off than a lot of people - around the world and here in America. We won't go to bed hungry or cold. We also have each other.

It's not always easy. I want to talk myself out of it - I should be sad, I should be scared, I should be sick with worry.

I took a break from the sadness, worry and fear and we went to the Saturday Market yesterday.

Malcolm bought this bouquet for me.

I got some beets that I am going to roast with olive oil and sea salt.

Our friend, Brent showed up and made me laugh.

We saw Get Smart at the dollar theatre and laughed some more.

I realized that the sadness, worry and fear will always be there. I am grateful for what they can teach me. I am grateful for knowing that I can choose to set them aside.

"Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful." ~ Buddha

Church of the Painted Rocks

2008-09-25T17:54:00.000-07:00

We live in a new development and there are lots of these rocks around. I've been painting them and leaving them in our neighbors' gardens. I completely stole this idea from the DancingMermaid.

It feels really good to do this and I also get a little scared. I feel sneaky as I plant one of these among their flowers or on their porch.*

Today, just as I was about to put one down, the neighbor's front door swung open. I held it out to her and said, "you caught me - I was leaving you a rock." She said, "you must be a Christian." And I blurted out "No." And then I was stammering, "well, I am, I guess, I don't know." And she asked me what church I go to.

"Um, I don't go to church - I just leave these rocks." :)

Say Anything

2008-08-20T23:02:00.000-07:00

I first saw Say Anything at the Valley View Twin Cinema in Cypress in 1989. I had just turned 20 and had been engaged for a little over a year. My fiancee refused to see this movie so I went alone. By choice, man. Conscious choice.

I left the theater so in love with this movie and pining for a Lloyd Dobler of my very own (sorry, Jake Ryan).

Things happened like they happened ... married at 22, divorced at 23 and while still pining for Lloyd Dobler, I met Malcolm at age 27.

On our first date, we spent hours doing the "me toos!" -- you love Calvin & Hobbes? Me too! Usual Suspects! Princess Bride! I swooned when I found out that he was also looking for a dare to be great situation.

We ended up back at my house and watched Say Anything till 4 in the morning - and yeah, we made out a little [a lot].

I don't know why, but I was thinking about us and our Say Anything connection this evening - maybe because our first date happened 12 years ago on August 16th. Whatever the reason, I realized that I had used Say Anything as a kind of test. If I wasn't going to find a dude to hold up a boom box for me, I at least wanted one who liked the movie.

And 12 years later? Lloyd Dobler, eat your heart out. I'm only pining for Malcolm now.

Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper

2008-08-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

SARK's newest book, Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper: Gifting the World with Your Words and Stories and Creating the Time and Energy to Actually DO It is available today. [insert confetti and noise makers here - YIPEE!]

I had the pleasure of being in one of SARK's Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper workshops at Celebrate Your Life in 2005. It was an amazing workshop and I am so glad she wrote the book. I highly recommend both the book ~ and her workshops (I'm intending on the Big Sur workshop in November - at the Henry Miller Library! - yum!). I'd also love to get to one of the book tour events. That's right, I'm a groupie for SARK! :)

One thing I really like about Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper is, while it's the perfect book for someone who wants to write a book, it's not just a book full of "tips". In fact, "this book is for anyone who wants to write and share what's in their heart." It's full of games and exercises but also, as always, SARK shares herself throughout the book and you see yourself in her brave sharing. I especially love the story of her parents meeting and a peek at "how SARK books are made".

As SARK says, "write and share what's in your heart" ~ and I say, do it in whatever form inspires you - blogging, poetry, journals, books, rocks, etc. Just write!

Happiness

2008-08-03T21:52:00.001-07:00

is a 9 year old neighbor who sidewalk chalks your driveway.

Portland Rose Garden

2008-07-22T22:20:00.000-07:00

A life with love will have some thorns

but a life without love will have no roses.

Thank you, Al Gore

2008-07-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

Two of my closest and dearest friends, J. and K., are coming for a visit this week. I first met them on a message board for the author SARK.
*
It got me to thinking about the friends I've made because of the internets.
*
I met J. face-to-face in 2003, when she flew from Florida for a slumber party I was having for 30 virtual strangers. We now sport the same tattoo on the inside of our left ankles (along with our Canadian friend, V.). K. came to a pumpkin carving party I hosted. She brought a pumpkin but refused to cut it. We are forever joined by our associations with a Mr. Dave Grohl.
*
I have countless stories about other friends from the SARK board - slumber parties, road trippin' to San Francisco to meet SARK herself, beach parties, skinny dipping, baby showers, art dates, and more - so much more. I wouldn't know about Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers (and have my baby, Molly) if it wasn't for Rae from the SARK Board and her sharing about her wheatie, Samwise Gamgee.
*
And then there's Meet In Eugene. I found this group while doing research about Eugene. This is one boffo group of people and so much FUN!
*
Lastly, and never leastly, is my husband. We met in an AOL chat room - Southern California room - on August 11, 1996. This was before dating sites. We were just in a chat room and started "talking". An hour later, we were on the phone. Three hours later, I knew I was going to be *very* tired at work the next day. We met face-to-face 5 days later and were married on November 13, 1998.
*
So, in short, thank you, Al Gore for inventing the internet. :)

California

2008-07-06T08:13:00.000-07:00

Dear California,

I've been gone 5 months now and I think it's true what they say...distance makes the heart grow fonder.

Someone asked the other day if I miss you. I had to think about it - I've been a little caught up with Eugene and answering questions about why did I move here. There seems to be a note of "you're crazy" in the question. I will tell you though that I've met quite a few people already and not many of them are from here. Crazy, indeed.

Of course I miss my friends and family and think of them every day. But what about you, California?

Do I miss being able to go to the beach and the snow on the same day (not that I ever did that but people in Southern California *love* to say that)?

I'm caught up in the memories right now. Finding sand dollars at Sunset Beach, turning my hair orange with sun-in, my niece's terrified scream when the walrus swam up to the glass at Marineland, my dad singing along in the Tiki Room, countless concerts, riding my bike in the Bolsa Chica wetlands, Dodger and Angel games, swimming and BBQing in December, the fireplace lit and the a/c blowing on Christmas Day, coffee houses in Long Beach, Farrell's Ice Cream, a red scooter, the Southern California chat room on AOL, KROQ, Skateway (now a church) and back to school shopping at Miller's Outpost.

I don't regret one second of my 39 years there. It was just time.

In other words, California, it's not you, it's me.

With nothing but love,

p.s. I'm praying for Big Sur.

Sassy Panda Day

2008-07-01T11:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Summer!

2008-06-22T22:12:00.000-07:00

In summer, the song sings itself. ~William Carlos Williams

Aloha Fairies!

2008-06-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

The fairies have discovered that Charli's *very* quiet friend, Riley is not quiet (at all) on paper. She has *a lot* of questions for the fairies - including their mode of transportation ~ "do you ride on birds - hummingbirds? Or butterflies? Or dragonflies?"

After toying with the idea of teeny, tiny scooters, the fairies answered that they use their wings or yes, sometimes hitch rides on butterflies and dragonflies - but not birds (as they are unpredictable).

There were immediately two more notes - one from Charli with a big thank you and one from Riley with *a lot* more questions. The fairies are starting to feel like they are on the talk show circuit and left a note today (with lots of goodies too) - that they are taking a vacation to Hawaii - and it takes a *long* time to fly there and back. The fairies will miss Charli and Riley and will be sure to let them know as soon as they are back.

Aloha dear fairies!

A picture of "fairyland" taken just now....

It really is a lovely home.

I'm Officially an Oregonian

2008-06-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

I tie dyed over the weekend. And I liked it.

Well, at least Malcolm has something to wear to Country Fair next month.

"Hippies, hippies... they want to save the world
but all they do is smoke pot and play frisbee!”
~ Eric Cartman

Boffo Panda's Most Anticipated Event of 2008

2008-06-03T11:50:00.001-07:00

3 more days till the awesomeness begins...

Reason #389,743 That I Love Malcolm

2008-06-02T10:14:00.000-07:00

From cute....

to naughty....

in 2.46 seconds.

Busy Fairies

2008-05-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

The fairy saga continues.

Charli and her friend Riley who was over for the weekend moved the fairy area to the empty lot right next door to Charli's house. They left notes for the fairies (I know this because they came over and asked me for paper to write the notes) but the fairies couldn't get out there till they knew Charli was back to school yesterday.

Note from Charli...
Dear Fairies,
I moved your fairy home! I hope you guys won't get mad at me for moving it but I put it somewere better, you guys get shade and I brought your fairy stuff over.
Love,
Charli Jo

this is charli, by the way

Note from Riley...
Dear Fairies,
My name is Riley. The fairies at my house are maybe greedy. I just love fairies so, so much. Can you please give me a bag of things? And what do you look like? Please wright me back.
~Riley

The fairies responded to Charli with abundant thanks and this was their response to Riley...
Dear Riley,
Fairies are never greedy - but we do get busy. It will be easier to take care of both you and Charli in one place - here. We love you too. We look like blooming flowers and shining stars and dreams come true.
Keep Believing...
The Fairies

The fairies left behind tiny garden pinwheels, letters that spelled out Riley, a tiny latern that lights up and loads of glitter.

The fairies just snuck out to take this picture and found another note...
Dear fairies,
When me and Riley are outside do you guys watch over us? Riley and I think fairies are just so pretty and cool. Will we get to see you guys sometime? We want to be best friends with you, but we all ready are. How old are you? What color hair do you have? What flowers are your favorite?
Love, Riley & Charli
p.s. agien we want to see you! in person!

The fairies' response...
Dear Riley & Charli,
It is best for fairies to stay hidden to human eyes ~ and we also enjoy being sneaky. :) We are "pretty and cool" but also very smart. We are as old as the stars in the sky and as young as each new day. We have all kinds of hair colors...we love all flowers and especially the ones we can wear as hats. We move around a lot but we will always come back to this wonderful spot you have made for us.
Keep Believing...
The Fairies

Beauty

2008-05-25T13:40:00.000-07:00

“Everything has its beauty, but not everyone sees it" ~ Confucius

Love, Twoo Wuv

2008-05-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

"The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in."

~Morrie Schwartz

Boffo Oregon Folks #3

2008-05-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

We moved to Oregon and didn't know anyone. I knew we would be okay in the friend department 'cause Malcolm is so darn friendly and everyone seems to like him.

What I didn't know is how lucky we would get in the friend department.
We have met some of the best people in all of Oregon (through MeetIn.org).

We dress up and eat candy and ice cream cake together
(you should always have a pastry chef in your group).

We karaoke, drink, play badminton, drink, play games, drink,
watch mediocre Hawaii themed movies, book & movie club,
get all pretty ....

and rock out on guitar hero and rock band....

We eat korean food and get serenaded by Joy, the owner of Brail's (voted best hangover breakfast in Eugene).

Evidently, we light up Joy's life. :)

Basically, we celebrate good times (c'mon!).

In all seriousness, this is one great group of boffo Oregon folks
and we are, in a word, grateful.

We also get sad when we have to be apart...

It's okay, Rebecca. We have a lot planned for the summer! :)

Bloom Like a Flower

2008-05-14T13:27:00.001-07:00

The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.

~Thich Nhat Hanh

A Girl & Her Dog

2008-05-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

We all know the day will come when we have to say goodbye. But knowing doesn't make it easier or make it hurt any less.

Thank you, Sasha Washa Wiggle Butts for taking such good care of our friend, Jamie.

We'll see you at the Bridge, sweet girl.

Rest in peace, Sasha.

photos by Leigh White

Keep Believing...

2008-05-10T22:23:00.000-07:00

Charli left a note for the fairies today....
***
Dear Fairyies,

Thank you for the rocks and the fairy items I really like them. One of the farmer guys crushed one of your fairy houses even the activities center and your guyses rock broke. I am really sorry can you guys give me a new rock please!

Love,
Charli
***

The fairies wrote back....

***
Dear Charli,

You are so very welcome. Thank you for building us such a wonderful place. We are used to the farmers and their machines. It is okay. We hope to make you a new rock someday (they are very heavy).

Keep believing....

Love,
The Fairies
***

The fairies left the note along with some beads that spelled out Charli, 5 glittery magic wands and plenty of fairy dust glitter. Due to the sneakiness of this 10 o'clock mission -- by the light of the moon and in full view of Charli's dark bedroom window, the fairies regret that there are no further pictures to share. ;)

Charli & The Fairies (aka Boffo Oregon Folks #2)

2008-04-18T15:04:00.000-07:00

Our next door neighbors (Mike & Juli) have a 9 year old girl, Charli. The kind of girl that makes you reconsider not having children. ;) She has a purple bike with flowers and she likes to use the port-a-potties stationed around the neighborhood (for the construction crews). She is very outgoing and Molly loves her.

Yesterday, she showed me the fairy land she built in the empty lots across the street from us. She also told me about her future expansion plans for the fairies' home and hoped that they would like it one day.

So....I got to work last night building a fairy "kit".

And while she was at school, we got busy leaving treasures for Charlie to find in the boy fairy area....

the girl fairy area...

(she made the leaf beds)

leading to her front porch...

and on the front porch....

I watched from the office window as she discovered the surprises in the fairy land. She was jumping up and down and screaming for her dad who was on his way over to see (he helped her build the land a couple of days ago).

Malcolm's over there helping her dad dig out the backyard and when I went over...she came running to me, showing me everything. She told me that she knew the fairies had really come because they had left behind fairy dust.

Her dad told her, "see...you should always believe in your dreams."

Swooooooon.

p.s. "I think that people who can't believe in fairies aren't worth knowing." ~Tori Amos

p.p.s. very special thanks to dancing mermaid...maker of magic and an inspiration and muse to many.

Bye Bye Corporate World

2008-04-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

And I thought working in my pjs was the *best* part of having my own business and working from home....

"isn't she pretty in pink....?" :)

The Office

2008-04-11T08:53:00.001-07:00

Welcome back, The Office.

I didn't know I could love imaginary people as much as I love these folks. Lots of high fives and "oh my god - that is so _____ (you or friend x or family member y)" going on in our house during last night's episode, Dinner Party.

Best line from last night: "You have no idea the physical toll that three vasectomies have on a person!"

The Office is definitely not for everybody...but if it's for you...well, then...you're for me. Just don't try to lick my ice cream cone. :)

Hundreds of Things

2008-04-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

Find yourself a cup of tea; the teapot is behind you.
Now tell me about hundreds of things. ~Saki

1., 2. and 3. This little turquoise teapot makes me smile. I got it at Target yesterday. I felt guilty about buying it.

4. I can't get enough of http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.wordpress.com/.

5. I like the rainy days in Oregon.

6. I'm scared of bees.

7. I can't believe I've been married for almost 10 years.

8. I really can't believe my dad has been dead for almost 20 years.

9. My favorite/lucky number is 9.

10. I don't like even numbers.

11. I can't stop biting my nails.

12. I crave acknowledgement.

13. Sometimes I forget how much I love to watch clouds.

14. I'm scared about the future.

15. I can't believe I'll be 40 next year.

16. I'm hooked on the Price is Right.

17. I don't know if I'll ever lose weight.

18. I sometimes wonder about my finding my birthfather.

19. I hope to swim with a dolphin someday.

20. I don't want to travel outside of the U.S. because I don't want people to know I'm an "American".

21. My Molly pup is the cutest thing ever. http://mollypups.blogspot.com/

22. Sometimes I want a kid (not a baby, a kid).

23. I'm forever grateful to Julie for introducing me to the Landmark Forum. http://www.landmarkeducation.com/

24. One of my dreams is to live right on the beach.

25. I'm pretty sure Malcolm and I knew each other in a previous life.

26. My books are like my babies.

27. I wonder if my birthmother thinks about me.

28. Sometimes I laugh about the things I've "been through".

29., 30. My mom is like my best friend and sometimes I want to smack her one.

31. I wish I knew then what I know now.

32. I used to be a poet.

33., 34. I've never even tried marijuana but I can quote a number of Cheech & Chong movies at you.

35. The salt and the lime is sometimes the best part of the margarita.

36. I swam naked in the Gulf of Mexico.

37. I have a tattoo of a shooting star on the inside of my left ankle.

38., 39., 40. When people ask, I always say I have four older brothers. Even though one died when I was barely 3 and one I'll never speak to again.

41. I've finally accepted my curly hair.

42. I often forget that I don't need a reason to wear glitter.

43., 44. I've marched in gay pride parades. I'm not gay.

45. White daisies are better than roses.

46. I also like the number 11.

47. Nothing beats a bubble bath with a good book.

48. Sometimes I feel like it's my job to make people laugh.

49. San Francisco is one of my favorite places in the world.

50., 51. It's very important to me to do a good job (and be acknowledged for it).

52. Sometimes I cry about the things I've "been through".

53. I was a Jesus Freak in junior high.

54., 55. 13 years of Lutheran/Christian education left me religiously rebellious and confused.

56. It's hard to not take things personally.

56. 57. Two of my best friends go by the names of Lunchy and Knoxy.

58. I met my husband in an AOL chatroom.

59., 60. I am a champion for transformation and I practice unshakeable confidence.

61., 62. I *love* to swim but I won't wear a bathing suit in public.

63. I've almost gotten into fights at two different Barenaked Ladies concerts.

64. I don't question Malcolm's love for me.

65. It hurts my heart when Molly whimpers in her sleep.

66. I can almost sing all of Baby Got Back at karaoke without running out of breath.

67. I almost quit my job last year when my boss told me I couldn't leave early to go see the Foo Fighters with Knoxy in a dive bar in the valley.

68. We met Dave Grohl that night.

69. I can't say 69 without also saying "dude".

70. I'd rather be cold than hot.

71. I'm surprisingly good at Guitar Hero.

72. I usually work in my pajamas these days.

73. I'm finally doing work I love.

74. I have no idea who I'll vote for in November.

75. My hair is growing gray very rapidly.

76. I've been thinking about giving up meat.

77. Guilt runs me sometimes.

78. Rainbows make me squeal with excitement.

79. It feels wrong to not honk when going through a tunnel.

80. Weeping willow trees always make me think of my Grandma Ada.

81., 82. Oprah's Big Give Show makes me cry and makes me mad in the same hour.

83., 84. I forget that compared to others in this world, I have nothing to complain about and nothing to worry about.

85. My pink cowgirl boots make me so happy.

86., 87. I get obsessed with getting the gifts with purchases (and then never use them - like the Clinique ones).

88. How can it be 21 years since I graduated from high school?

89. I miss the little boy my nephew Christopher was.

90. It took me 12 years to finish my 4 year degree.

91., 92. I love surprises but I *hate* knowing that a surprise is coming.

93. I'm a good gift giver.

94. Bad customer service makes me cranky.

95. I always seem to end up sitting next to talkers at the movies.

96. I never learned how to drive stick shift.

97. The summer I was 16 was probably the best summer of my life.

98. I'm a good speller.

99. One of my dreams is to have a pink or teal green bike with a basket.

100. I hope to see the Aurora Borealis before I die.

101. In the cuteness contest, pandas always win.

You? (not necessarily a hundred - it was really hard) :)

Staples Out...I'm Back Baby!

2008-04-03T21:14:00.000-07:00

I got the staples removed from my back today. I was deathly afraid that it was going to hurt so bad. I planned to be gone for hours. I thought they would knock me out or give me something major to ease the pain. I thought I would be fully undressed, in a butt baring gown and face down in a cold, sterile room. I was ready to ~ okay, not go fully towards the light but maybe have a teensy out of body experience.

Nah.

I hitched down my pants a little, bent over the examining table and looked out the window while the physician's assistant plucked them out with a glorified staple remover.

Anyway, I'm doing good and it's not itching as bad it had been. I hardly have any swelling or redness; it's healing nicely and I start physical therapy next week. And I am in very minimal pain. Thank you, Dr. Keiper!!

We went to the mall afterward (I hadn't been out of the house in over a week) and I fully treated myself.

Super cute shirt from Torrid ~ suitable for Malcolm's Guitar Hero birthday party next weekend and for the Foos in Portland in July with my sisters from other misters. A new journal and a pack of 24 markers. The Eckhart Tolle book so I can jump on the Oprah bandwagon ~ oh, I mean "awaken to my life's purpose". :) And a bunch of jangly silver bracelets.

I feel more like myself right now than I have in months.

Baby Got BACK

2008-03-29T16:28:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, I had an L4-5 microlaminotomy and diskectomy. They removed the piece of disc that has been pressing on my nerve for many years. In other words, OUCHIE.

But...here it is Saturday and I have a huge bandage on my back but the nerve pain is gone as is the crampiness and numbness that I was feeling in my legs for a couple of days after the surgery. I'm doped up and watching bad tv and reading good books

I'm stuck at home...which is fine as it was just hailing 5 minutes ago...

It snowed a little bit yesterday.

I am getting the staples out of my back on Thursday and then I'll start physical therapy in 6 weeks for the herniated disc.

Thanks for your well wishes, calls and cards. It really means the world to me.

Almost Spring

2008-03-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

What is there to do in Junction City the weekend before the first day of Spring?

You wait for the slightest break in the clouds...

And head for the Daffodil Festival, of course!

On the drive there, you marvel at the sights...

Maybe one of these will be part of your life in December?

Tromping through mud is so worth it (even if your husband thinks you don't know how to drive in mud (hmph!)....

You learn the difference between sheep,

Alpacas,

and Llamas.

Buy your kettle korn for the ride home and your cinnamon rolls for tomorrow morning and take a bundle of spring home with you...

Happy Almost Spring!!

Dream Come True

2008-03-15T20:33:00.001-07:00

Shhhh....my little secret for wanting to work from home....

This little sweetie sleeping under my desk. :)

(not to mention working in pjs and socks).

Happy Birthday to Me....

2008-03-11T08:03:00.001-07:00

December, 1969

39 years old today. I can't believe it. 39?!?!?

I was going to make a list of things I will accomplish this year ~ as in GOALS. A big list of "to do" before I turn 40. My mind started churning and then I got really tired. It made me feel broken ~ as in a "here's a big list of what needs to be fixed about me".

So instead, I took a bath with some Lush "The Comforter" bubble bar and I am choosing "being" instead of "doing".

My #1 (and only) goal for my 40th year is to be happy.

Happy Birthday, indeed. :)

2007, photo by dancing mermaid

Happiness is a conscious choice, not an automatic response.

~Mildred Barthel

Making Friends in Oregon

2008-03-09T21:56:00.000-07:00

Malcolm and I went to a surprise birthday party today for Earl. We met Earl and his wonderful wife Rebecca through MeetInEugene.

The theme for the party was to recreate a local ice cream shop that Earl had always wanted to go to and had since closed down (I heard at the party that it was a Farrell's at one time ~ some of my So Cal homies are already smiling about their Farrell's memories).

We were to dress in costumes that were "nostalgic over-the-top kids' party, such as magicians, clowns (non-scary, please), cowboys, ponies, pirates, ninjas, whatever." So...I went as a cowgirl and Malcolm was a pilot for UPS.

(too bad you can't see my pink cowgirl boots).

We partied with a hippie, a zookeeper, a fortune teller and a rodeo clown.

We ate pizza and ring pops and candy necklaces and pixie sticks.

And then we had some out of this world ice cream cake made by Rebecca who is a renowned pastry chef in Eugene.

Earl the birthday boy making a wish.

We didn't get to stay too long because I'm trying to manage some back pain but we had a blast and can't wait to spend more time with our new friends ~ but maybe not eat so much sugar next time! :)

One more peek at the cowgirl cutie...;)

Somebody Loved

2008-03-06T22:31:00.000-08:00

Rain turns the sand into mud

Wind turns the trees into bone

Stars turning high up above

You turn me into somebody loved

~The Weepies

I don't know what I would do
without this man.
And because of this man,
I'll never have to find out
what I would do
without this man.

Oh Hail No!

2008-03-02T21:17:00.000-08:00

Our backyard, Saturday, March 1st.

And we thought spring was just around the corner. :)

Lucky....

2008-02-27T21:22:00.000-08:00

Malcolm went to Wisconsin last weekend and came home with this -- courtesy of Rick, a true artist.
*
We will never again be able to pinch Malcolm on St. Patrick's Day.
*
Well...not for not wearing green anyway.... ;)

Boffo Oregon Skies #2

2008-02-27T12:00:00.001-08:00

When you realize how perfect everything is

you will tilt you head back and laugh at the sky.

~Buddha

Boffo Oregon Folks #1

2008-02-22T10:21:00.000-08:00

We met the Walters family when we found their house for sale in the MLS when we first started Oregon dreamin'. We fell in love with their house before we even saw in it in person but as California home prices started dropping...so did our budget.

But....because Andrea is so wonderful, she answered many of our questions about Eugene and had us sold on the area before we even visited Oregon for the first time. We were lucky enough to meet Todd and Andrea at the Steelhead Brewery during our first visit to Oregon and then meet up with them again -- and meet their beautiful and big-time talented daughter (who just blew everyone away when she sang the National Anthem at the Ducks vs Huskies Men's Basketball Game on 2/14/08) and son (who has a strong supporting role in the upcoming Train Master movie) during another visit.

Unlucky for us, they are moving to Portland now but we hope to catch a Barenaked Ladies concert with them someday! Best of luck to the Walters Family -- a very boffo Oregon family!

Lunar Eclipse

2008-02-20T19:18:00.000-08:00

Taken from our driveway, 10 minutes ago, in Junction City, Oregon.

***

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the full moon passes into Earth's shadow and is blocked from the sun's rays that normally illuminate it. During an eclipse, the sun, Earth and moon line up, leaving a darkened moon visible to observers on the night side of the planet.

The moon doesn't go black because indirect sunlight still reaches it after passing through the Earth's atmosphere. Since the atmosphere filters out blue light, the indirect light that reaches the moon transforms it into a reddish or orange tinge, depending on how much dust and cloud cover are in the atmosphere at the time.

Cure~All

2008-02-19T13:07:00.000-08:00

I received this sweet hydrangea for Valentine's Day (my Shmoopie knows what I like). I woke up yesterday morning to find it completely wilted and quite sad looking. My immediate thought was, "great, I killed another plant. Oh well, I guess I have to throw this out now."

Then I took a moment and read the care card that came with it and I still wasn't sure what to do. It prefers "medium light". I'm not going to pretend to know what medium light is.

So I took all my knowledge of how to care for plants -- water and light -- and after giving it a big drink, set it in the kitchen window and ta-da! It perked right up and seems much happier.

Water and light. Total cure~all.

I Miss My Mommy...

2008-02-17T17:15:00.000-08:00

and not just for her pancakes, either! :)

Boffo Oregon Skies #1

2008-02-16T20:50:00.000-08:00

All of us could take a lesson from the weather.

It pays no attention to criticism.

~ Author Unknown

My Other Valentine...

2008-02-14T22:42:00.000-08:00

Molly waiting patiently for her daily walk. I love this girl so.

(notice the clean pre-walk paws)

Our 12th Valentine's Day....

2008-02-14T15:19:00.000-08:00

and still swooning.

Wishing you love today...

and everyday.

Just Another...

2008-02-12T21:05:00.000-08:00

sunny day in Oregon. :) Life is good.

Sunny Saturday

2008-02-10T20:27:00.000-08:00

The sun was out first thing yesterday morning here in Eugene, Oregon. Not a [rain] cloud to be seen. We took Molly on a nice long walk and let her frolick through the empty lots in the neighborhood. It got up in the high 50s. The best part for us Southern California transplants was going on errands in sweaters and coats and seeing folks in shorts and flip flops. :) It was also fun to see how many people were out -- walking, jogging, biking. Just out. Enjoying a sunny Saturday in February. I'll be sure to let you know the next time we have one of those. :)

No Rain....No Rainbows

2008-02-10T11:23:00.000-08:00

“We could never learn to be brave and patient,

if there were only joy in the world.”

~Hellen Keller

Boffo Oregon Trees #1

2008-02-09T12:51:00.001-08:00

This one lives right on the edge of our neighborhood. I try to walk by it everyday or say hello from the office window.

Two of My Best Friends

2008-02-08T20:04:00.000-08:00

Blowing kisses from California....and the butterflies they gave us to remember them ...

(like we'd ever forget these two sweeties). xo

On the way....

2008-02-04T21:59:00.001-08:00

Bogs boots for tromping through the muddy fields of Oregon and Lush bath bombs for soaking in my new huge tub afterwards. Now I need a better rain coat....

We Made It...

2008-01-31T12:19:00.000-08:00

...to Oregon. It really *is* very wet here. :) We are living with two camping chairs and an air mattress till our stuff gets here. Last we heard, the truck is stuck just north of Redding where the snow pack is requiring chains. Luckily, we made it out of there just in time yesterday. The cable guy got here this morning so we are set to watch the season premiere of Lost tonight. Life is good!

2008-01-24T18:05:00.001-08:00

Escrow closes tomorrow and the moving truck comes Monday.

We will be in Oregon next Wednesday...

...if the Grapevine's open, that is.

I really hope what "they" say is true...
that you get the same physical response from
excitement as you do from fear.

Boffo Panda

Patience

No More Excuses

Confidence

Shame

ZOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMb-AHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Out Loud

Ch-Ch-Changes

Deprivation 2

Deprivation

*Choice* {word for 2012}

No Pie? No Ham? No Cheesecake?

Weighting Game

Glad No Matter What

Secret Thoughts

On Turning 40

6 Things That Make Me Happy

Part of Life

Cure~All

Explosion of Sadness

Freeze Frame

Courage

Perfection

My Mom

Frazzled

My Big Brother

Proud to Be an American

We Believe in Fairies

Coming Home

The Moon Tonight

Gratitude

Why Be Grateful?

Church of the Painted Rocks

Say Anything

Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper

Happiness

Portland Rose Garden

Thank you, Al Gore

California

Sassy Panda Day

Happy Summer!

Aloha Fairies!

I'm Officially an Oregonian

Boffo Panda's Most Anticipated Event of 2008

Reason #389,743 That I Love Malcolm

Busy Fairies

Beauty

Love, Twoo Wuv

Boffo Oregon Folks #3

Bloom Like a Flower

A Girl & Her Dog

Keep Believing...

Charli & The Fairies (aka Boffo Oregon Folks #2)

Bye Bye Corporate World

The Office

Hundreds of Things

Staples Out...I'm Back Baby!

Baby Got BACK

Almost Spring

Dream Come True

Happy Birthday to Me....

Making Friends in Oregon

Somebody Loved

Oh Hail No!

Lucky....

Boffo Oregon Skies #2

Boffo Oregon Folks #1

Lunar Eclipse

Cure~All

I Miss My Mommy...

Boffo Oregon Skies #1

My Other Valentine...

Our 12th Valentine's Day....

Just Another...

Sunny Saturday

No Rain....No Rainbows

Boffo Oregon Trees #1

Two of My Best Friends

On the way....

We Made It...

Choice {word for 2012}