tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48286104691221971142024-03-05T02:08:38.170-08:00Chronicles of StroutacusA blog that plays by its own rules, guided by its aimless author.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger167125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-57665232194412783142014-08-07T17:25:00.002-07:002014-08-07T17:25:48.534-07:00A To-Do List for 2020...from 1992<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
Sifting through my belongings, I found writing from my elementary school days. In the fifth grade, I received a writing prompt that asked where I would be in the year 2020, which was 28 years away. The following is what I chose to write: </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<i><b>"In the year 2020 a.d., I will be married with 5 children. Their ages will be 10, 12, 14, 16, 18. I will probably have 2 boys 3 girls.<br />I will be a very busy person. I will be a Girl Scout leader Mondays from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. and I'm a 4-H leader on Fridays also. I teach piano lessons Tuesdays and Thursdays. On Wednesdays I'm an assistant coach for the girls' high school basketball team. Like I said, I'm a very busy person.<br />I also work for a very famous company. I am secretary and work from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. week-days I make $255,000 a year. I will be living in Omaha, Nebraska by the Missouri river.<br />Since I don't work on week-ends, that is when we have family outings. Occasionally, we might go down to the river and take a dip. And sometimes in the winter, we'll go down to Colorado for a ski week-end.<br />Some people think I am free-spirited and young for 39. The also think I look young for 39, also.<br />I would like to add that around my home, the air is fresh, the sky is blue and the grass is green.<br />This may not happen to me, but this is what I hope will happen to me in the year 2020 a.d."</b></i></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">First of all, the five kids? With specific ages and genders? Those five ships have pretty much sailed. Secondly, you can guess my childhood activities: Girl Scouts (yes, they were on Mondays), piano lessons (Tuesdays), 4-H and basketball. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">I'd love to find a company that can afford $255K for a secretary - which I think might be a bit steep, even if inflation balloons in the next few years. I have no idea why I decided to locate myself in Omaha, Nebraska, unless I had recently researched it prior to the prompt. I'm not sure about taking dips in the Missouri, but I like the idea of occasional trips to Colorado, even if I've never skied. </span></div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
I love the fact that I'll be a "free-spirited" and youthful-looking 39. </div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
On a more serious note, I'm not as far off from what my 11-year-old self envisioned. My environment is beautiful - fresh air, blue sky, and green grass. Occasionally, I wade into the Sebasticook River, I'm involved in a few agricultural organizations and I help coach the softball team. I worked as a secretary once, at about a tenth of the salary. I learned it wasn't for me, though.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
I knew when I grew up that I wanted to be involved in my community and surround myself with loved ones while living a balanced life. As an adult, I'd almost start with the free-spirited part, because right now my success is defined internally, with minimal measurement on the outside.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
So today, in 2014, where do I see myself in 2020?</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<i><b>In 2020, I see myself as a confident young woman, looking to improve herself a little more each and everyday. Professionally, I plan to be a published writer, with possible income supplementation from working as a teacher. I see myself in a much healthier body, physically and emotionally. Maybe I am married or in a committed relationship with a man who has kids, or we adopt kids, or maybe we decide not to be parents ourselves. Regardless, I expect to be involved in the community, especially with youth sports. I see myself participating in numerous 5K walks/races to raise funds for a variety of causes. If I'm incredibly lucky, I'll still be butting heads with my mother about the cows, or worrying that she is doing far too much manual labor. Finally, I want to be maintaining friendships with my lifelong friends, sharing joys with them and helping heal during the sorrowful times, too. If finances allow, I'll travel and enjoy new experiences. If finances aren't so bountiful, I will stay put...and find new experiences to enjoy.</b></i></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">I suppose I could write a more detailed outline of where I will be and how I will get there, yet that has never been my style and I am pretty happy with the person I am and most of my style. It's the free-spirited part that I can work on, and I'm happy 11-year-old Me reminded the 33-year-old me of that.</span></span></div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px; margin-top: 6px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-66746528470830069962014-06-28T19:04:00.000-07:002014-06-28T19:04:06.901-07:00Savoring Softball SuccessThe conclusion of the 2014 softball season was a bit surreal from my perspective as an assistant coach - and maybe for the players as well. For the first time since 1993 (before any of the players were born), our team won the state championship. I wish I could write a play-by-play recap of one of the two greatest games in school history. Alas, I was in Texas for a family event I committed to before the season started.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Could I write that we knew from the beginning the team would be hoisting the gold glove trophy in June? No. The most encouraging part of our pre-season round robin scrimmages was being able to take the entire team to Olive Garden without incident. The coaching staff approached the scrimmages with the hope of answering questions about our defense, but instead we walked away with even more unanswered. Looking at the first four games of our schedule, our head coach said he'd be elated if we had a record of 2-2.<br />
<br />
Yet the pieces came together, and quicker than most of us anticipated. Apparently the repetitions at the dreaded drills (one player really, really wanted to throw the pitching machine into the river) paid off for the lineup, as the girls pounded the ball consistently and outscored their first two opponents 35 to 2. Defensively, the team responded well to changes and accepted the roles given to them.<br />
<br />
Ultimately, our two "secrets of success" were our seniors and our coach. Our group of six seniors played with and for each other better than any group of seniors I have seen before. Their junior year molded them for their playoff run this year after an unexpected run to the state final last year. After winning the eastern regional championship this year, one player remarked, "I'm not satisfied." It was clear they were ready to win the state title and weren't just grateful for the opportunity to play.<br />
<br />
As for our head coach, he is simply one of the greatest Maine high school softball coaches of all time. I could list statistics to back that statement up (and okay, I'm biased), but there is more to Lee Johnson than winning games, championships, and implementing a program that's seen multiple players compete beyond high school. He is not satisfied with finding one approach that works and sticking with it. He attends clinics and watches hours of video to find different drills and strategies to help his team and the entire program. He's been called a class act, which is an understatement. When he reported conference all-star voting results to the squad, he didn't say "I was selected Coach of the Year." Instead, he thanked the girls for helping "us" get "coaches of the year" because the team made us look good. <br />
<br />
Most importantly, Lee is a coach who believes in his players and staff, treating them with respect and providing them with a sense of value and importance regardless of their roles. His approach may not seem "intense" enough to some outsiders, but he tailors it to the players on his squad, pushing when he needs to push but also giving free rein when necessary.<br />
<br />
Despite the elation at seeing the girls reach their goal, there is a sadness that lingers within me as the seniors graduate and move on. The state championship was not accomplished in merely one season with this team. Years of preparation and dedication contributed to the team dynamic that allowed them to be successful. Their hard work yielded results that in turn will sow another seed for area youth, as ten- and twelve-year-old girls begin their journey together. The road may not be the same, but hopefully they will reach the same destination.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-11534612827049750942014-03-13T19:07:00.000-07:002014-03-13T19:07:18.202-07:00I am a camel...I try not to complain about the weather, but this winter has been rough. The storm we just had in Maine is the straw that literally broke my back. Okay, so "broken" may be a slight exaggeration of the intense knee-buckling pain that fires across my back when I stand up, sit down, turn, attempt to walk, breathe, or use any part of my lower back. It will heal, almost certainly before the first crocus pops up in the early spring sun. Still, I don't know if I can handle another storm, physically or mentally, until 2015.<br />
<br />
Normally, with a pulled back muscle I deal with the pain and after a few days, things are back to normal. In addition to the pain this time, however, is the fact that I am primary caregiver for my grandfather, my mother as she recovers from shoulder surgery, a hyper dog, a finicky cat, one temperamental house rabbit and 17 Simmental beef cows. Timing could not be worse - there is an awful lot of snow that needs to be moved. <br />
<br />
Although I am begging Mother Nature for mercy, and feeling miserable for not being able to perform the tasks that I should, I try to see the positive in my situation. I hate the feeling of being dependent on others; I wish my cousin didn't have to put out round bales for the cattle and the neighbor didn't have to navigate treacherous roadways late in the evening to feed our bull and steer in the barn. Yet, I'm sure the opportunity will arise when I will be able to help them. It's the cycle of community, through good weather and bad.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-63306452190896283902013-12-10T18:33:00.000-08:002013-12-10T18:33:17.908-08:00Facebook RehabI recently decided to "take a break" from Facebook, and deactivate my account. Deactivating one's account is perfect for commitment-phobes like myself since it retains information so when I decide to return (and I'm fairly certain I will) I will still have photos, friends, etc. <br />
<br />
So yet again, I have begun the Facebook detox cycle. First, I became frustrated/disillusioned/bored/accomplished the highest level of my game-of-the-week and felt it would be a good time to detach myself from Facebook and spend my time more...intelligently.<br />
<br />
Step 1: I deactivated my account on Sunday evening. I know myself well enough to realize this is likely a phase, so deleting my account would be obnoxious. Simply deactivating the account made more sense. I chose not to post a "warning" to friends since that seems melodramatic and narcissistic.<br />
<br />
Step 2: Life without Facebook requires some adjustment.<br />
<br />
1 hour Facebook-free: I just opened up my web browser and had to stop myself from automatically going to Facebook.<br />
<br />
3 hours FF: I am ready for bed, and only feel slightly tempted to check the site.<br />
<br />
12 hours FF: To make it easier to *not* log back in and reactivate my computer, I don't start my computer until later in the morning - and then I am making a conscious effort to focus solely on my email.<br />
<br />
Throughout the day, I find myself thinking in "status update" mode...basically, what I would post to Twitter if I had access.<br />
<br />
24 hours FF: My mother relays a message that someone thinks I have unfriended her. That was how my mother found out I was "off Facebook."<br />
<br />
26 hours FF: Apparently feeling some sort of need to communicate with the outside world, I take to Twitter and tweet three times in an hour. It is the first time I have been on that site in about a month.<br />
<br />
38 hours FF: I find myself wondering about the "need" to be on Facebook: like the page I was co-admin for, getting addresses, communicating to family about an upcoming gathering. Yet, I still feel I need to stay off the network.<br />
<br />
43 hours FF: My mother asks, "Are you back on yet?!" She posts updates daily...and usually more than one.<br />
<br />
47 hours FF: I have weeded through and "read" all of my email in my Gmail inbox. I still need to go through the "Promotions" box, and could clean up the "Social" section, but I've spent a big chunk of time on that today.<br />
<br />
48 hours FF: Blogging for the first time in five months!<br />
<br />
I'm curious to see how long I can go without logging on to Facebook, and if I do log on, can I limit the frequency and usage of it? We'll see what the next few days have in store. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-2745002150193375442013-07-03T20:13:00.000-07:002013-07-03T20:13:04.062-07:00Hit one mark!10% down, 90% to go on my Camp NaNoWriMo novel. I've enjoyed writing so far because I haven't planned out my plot so I look forward to see what my protagonist does today. Now, the key will be for me to stay on track or recover from the change in schedule that will occur over the next few days.<br />
<br />
I'll have to take a similar approach with the weight loss plan. I'm down one pound from last week (success!) but I still struggle at the beginning of the week since I feel like I can eat ANYTHING and EVERYTHING rather than trying to pace myself and space out my "bonus points" throughout the week, or towards the end of my week. Needless to say, I get frustrated when I have to stay strictly within my points from Friday through Tuesday!<br />
<br />
Overall, I have to say I'm pleased to make forward progress in the priority areas of my life. Now if I could just find a more regular way to pay the bill thingies...<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-24939144209137541282013-07-01T21:07:00.002-07:002013-07-01T21:07:24.625-07:00If anyone needs me, I'll be at camp...Camp NaNoWriMo!I will be hanging out at Camp NaNoWriMo for the next month. If you are not familiar with <a href="http://www.nanowrimo.org/">NaNoWriMo</a> (National Novel Writing Month), I highly recommend checking it out. It is a lot of fun to challenge yourself to write 50,000 words in a month. I attempted it in November of November 2011 and achieved a 37,000 word manuscript which I have since built up to 40,000 words and am currently revising. I briefly attempted it in November of 2012, but it didn't take at all. I am excited about Camp NaNoWriMo because I have a different type of idea and so far I'm interested to see where it can go.<br />
<br />
And as for the weight loss struggle, it may still be a struggle, but I have some attainable goals that I hope to accomplish to help me get healthier and accomplish what I want.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-49368993286593739772013-06-30T20:29:00.001-07:002013-06-30T20:29:38.891-07:00Random ramblings...wait, is that redundant?I have completely regressed to high school. I told myself I would blog today and I just sat down to start with 47 minutes left in the day. I have no plan, no outline, not even a single thought as to what I could blog about - just completely winging it. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This method of writing is one I have employed since I was about nine years old. Homework assignments were always completed at the last minute - up until my last homework assignment in college. It's amazing that my GPA hovered around the 3.15 mark, given the incredible lack of effort I contributed. Of course, it could also be considered disappointing if you look at it from the perspective of unrealized potential. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyway, tomorrow is Monday, and I'll be starting Camp NaNoWriMo - basically attempting a 50,000-word novel in 31 days. I'm also hoping my latest attempt at WeightWatchers starts to sink in, too, because I haven't regularly tracked my food in almost two weeks, since I joined. Eesh. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-12908954304351914742013-06-23T14:29:00.001-07:002013-06-23T14:29:53.215-07:00A clean car? Inconceivable!Today I decided I delayed cleaning the car for long enough. Fifteen pounds of gravel and pennies had accumulated under my feet while heart attack sacks piled up on the passenger side floor. It was quite a disgrace, and I knew I needed to take the time to cull crap out and organize. In addition, my mother - the rightful owner - would be driving Beulah the Buick tomorrow so it needed to be at least a little closer to her standards than mine.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Grabbing the foam carpet cleaner (did I forget to mention unidentifiable stains on the seats, with only some correlating to the fast food trash?), a rag and refuse bags, I flung open the driver side door and began in earnest. I didn't quite finish with the same enthusiasm, but over the course of forty-five minutes, I picked out the gravel, sifted through and found pennies, dimes, and the key to the storage unit (score!), several pens, a chapstick missing its cover (gnarly!) and something that may have been a living organism at one point. Okay, that was bad even for <i>me</i>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After scraping off the floor and scrubbing out the seats, I organized the glove compartment. Maps, take-out menus, owner's manual and CURRENT registration and proof of insurance all neatly organized, in case there happens to be another unexpected visit with the local police department. Now, I just have to tackle the back seat after items bound for the Monday auction are unloaded, vacuum the heck out of the ol' girl and she'll be almost as good as new. Or as good as new as a car can look when it has transported me around.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-29598274572574457712013-04-20T05:18:00.002-07:002013-04-20T05:23:13.173-07:00Guest Post: Fighting Cancer with FitnessOne of my biggest pet peeves about myself is how I tend to let life get in the way of my living - does that make sense? Anyway, I am very excited to introduce my first guest blog post, "Fighting Cancer with Fitness" by Milady. Melanie, also known as Milady, is "an advocate for natural health and cancer patients, so you will often find [her] highlighting the great benefits of different nutritional, emotional, and physical treatments that can significantly help those going through a time of illness." I hope you'll enjoy the article, as it provides a different perspective to fitness.<br />
<br />
<b>Fighting Cancer with Fitness</b><br />
<br />
For healthy individuals, regular exercise provides a means for keeping fit and relieving stress. While these same benefits apply to someone suffering from <a href="http://www.mesothelioma.com/">mesothelioma</a>, there are additional challenges and difficulties when undertaking any exercise program.<br />
<br />
Types of Exercise:<br />
Aerobic exercise refers to anything that boosts cardiovascular function through increased blood flow and oxygen uptake. Cancer patients can benefit from aerobic exercise that is not too strenuous on the heart or lungs but improves overall function. Flexibility training involves stretching activities that promote muscle and joint movement. Resistance training strengthens the muscles while aiding in muscular endurance.<br />
<br />
Limitations of Exercise:<br />
Activities that cause rapid spikes in heart rate, such as running, basketball, tennis, or certain types of resistance training, may be contraindicated for some patients. However, most physicians will recommend that their patients pursue a healthier lifestyle through light to moderate exercise. It is essential, though, to obtain a physicians approval before embarking on any fitness regimen.<br />
<br />
Benefits of Exercise:<br />
Fitness activities, including walking, water aerobics, yoga, biking and light resistance training, can illicit great benefits for overall cardiovascular function, functional muscle maintenance and flexibility. Yoga is especially helpful for enhancing breathing ability and aligning posture while increasing range of motion.<br />
<br />
There will be times when patients feel fatigued and they are physically limited. Engaging in even light exercises, such as stretching and flexibility training, can reduce unpleasant effects of bed rest, including bedsores and joint stiffness.<br />
<br />
Loss of appetite is common among those undergoing chemotherapy. Exercise boosts the metabolism and can help to stimulate the appetite due to increased energy expenditure and caloric demands.<br />
<br />
In addition to the physical benefits, exercise boasts a plethora of emotional advantages as well. Exercise can improve the appearance, which thus leads to a higher self-image. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety while simultaneously releasing endorphins that actually serve as mood enhancers.<br />
<br />
Environment of Exercise:<br />
It is critical that the patient feels comfortable not only with the exercise routine but also with the exercise environment. For those who are just beginning, exercising at home may be the best starting place. A gym, health club, or park can also provide a safe venue. Working with a personal trainer may be helpful for both motivation and assistance as long as the trainer is certified and familiar with routines specific to cancer patients.<br />
<br />
Starting an exercise routine can aid the body in responding to cancer treatments and greatly <a href="http://health.usnews.com/health-news/diet-fitness/slideshows/7-mind-blowing-benefits-of-exercise">enhance overall sense of well-being</a>. Talk to your doctor today and get moving!<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-76761842344735151722013-04-12T20:21:00.000-07:002013-04-12T20:24:32.219-07:00Tipping the scales in my favor...I have a confession. I am obsessed with the bathroom scales. It's strange, but regardless of what number shows up, I LOVE weighing myself. I have absolutely no idea why. Perhaps it fills the void as some sort of mutated superstitious ritual, the sort of ritual I thrived on while playing softball in high school. Instead of bringing victory to the team, the scales dance is a victory against the weight. At least when the number drops from the previous day or week, anyway.<br />
<br />
Calling it a "scales dance" is not far from the truth. I wake up, go to the bathroom, and place the scales in the spot in the room where I seem to weigh the least. The laws of physics are apparently fluid in the bathroom; sometimes I weigh three-tenths of a pound less if I slide the scales to the left along the floor about four inches. I have slid the scales around the linoleum a few times before realizing that I have reached the lowest number I will reach. Since our scales typically display lower numbers, I always weigh myself at least three times. Or until I see the same weight three times - whichever occurs first.<br />
<br />
Some days I am pleasantly surprised to step on and not see an increase. I am elated when I see a loss even if it is less than half a pound. Of course, some days I step on and scratch my head, wondering why I gained so much in such a short period of time (most weight loss resource materials tell me that there is a one to two pound variation in weight day-to-day). I'd be lying if I said it never gets to me but I try to keep numbers in perspective.<br />
<br />
Therefore I utilize body measurements when the scales are holding steadfast and denying me a sense of progress. It is extremely gratifying when I see the inches dwindle off my waistline (Fredo is not completely gone yet). Finding moments of self-satisfaction contribute to building and maintaining stamina throughout the weight loss journey.<br />
<br />
On a side note, I am extremely excited to announce that my FIRST guest post will be up in the next day or two....I'm so excited!<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-57716775832993896322013-04-07T19:41:00.000-07:002013-04-07T19:41:09.499-07:00Menu Planning...for next year<span id="goog_1557478850"></span><span id="goog_1557478851"></span><br />
When the wind is whipping through your jacket and pants, chilling your hands and making you curse your climate, it can be difficult to imagine gardening. But when it's necessary for survival, you think about it daily during the dark days of winter - especially when the most recent harvest is fully depleted. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In preparation for this year, my mother and I have hoarded seeds like house-bound field mice in late autumn. While shopping the Macy's of Maine, Marden's, we discovered packets of seeds for a quarter apiece. We loaded up on marigolds, beets, and I picked up some peppers. In fact, I picked up a lot of peppers this year - green peppers, carnival hybrid sweet peppers (literally a rainbow of peppers!), banana peppers, Big Jim Chili peppers, and pepperoncini. What inspired this pepperpalooza? I'm hooked on snacking on miniature sweet peppers...which none of these varieties are, but I am determined to make good use of whatever I can grow. Ma, on the other hand, chose to clean out Galusha's stock of shell beans since they are usually the only ones to carry that variety.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Today, we enjoyed the fun and exciting phase of Seeding. Ma pulled out her small plastic tubs, filled them with starter soil, strongly discouraged the cat from treating them as litter boxes as she ran upstairs to retrieve a knitting needle, and gave the soil a nice healthy drink before violating it with said knitting needle. My responsibilities included handing over seeds and plant markers inscribed with the intended crop. After another soil drenching, Ma moved the temporary seed homes to the large basement window sills, again instructing the cat to leave them alone. Fingers crossed they will survive both the cat, and my inability to remember such tasks as, say, watering.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-90525665600884864392013-03-03T21:24:00.001-08:002013-03-03T21:26:10.108-08:00A "Dear John" letter to my dear gutFor anyone who has fought or is fighting in the Battle of the Bulging Belly, you have probably read or heard a variety of techniques to motivate you to exercise, stick with a diet, etc. One method that I came across several years ago spoke to the writer in me. The person wrote a break-up letter to her stomach. I thought it was an interesting concept, so I gave it a shot. This version is edited slightly; I can be a bit vulgar sometimes but on this platform, I try to keep it clean. I chose to name my gut (which is the excessive part of my abdominal area - not the essential organs and such) "Fredo" after the character from The Godfather.<br />
<br />
<i>Dear Fredo, </i><br />
<i>I know we've been through a lot. You came into my life in full force when I was 10 so Mom started taking me to WeightWatchers with her. That was just the beginning of our relationship. In fact, I haven't been able to shake you since then.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i> I thought I would move on without you after my freshmen year of high school when I flirted with Field Hockey that fall so you weren't around as much. But then I spent less time with Field Hockey and more time with you and that other couple we've spent so much time with, Food and Television. I'll give you credit for sticking with me during the turbulent teenage years of high school, and then the stress fest that was college. We didn't do the Freshman Fifteen - we went all out for the Freshman Forty! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I got serious about ending things during my junior year when I went to Weight Watchers at Work. The leader was great, I enjoyed my fellow attendees, and faithfully attended meetings - until the summer was over. I still don't know how you convinced me to just go for weigh-ins...that I didn't need to stay for the actual meeting. After college, we partied like rock stars when I moved home with the parents, and then to Vermont for work. Despite everything I said about getting in shape those next few years, I never followed through.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Then there was that "intervention" with the girls in the fall of 2009. We agreed to train for a 5K together - and I really, really thought you were moving out for good. Even after the lay-off and a seizure resulted in me being in Maine without driving privileges, I kept exercising and you were disappearing. When I thought I was well on my way to being on my own, there they were: cupcakes! I just know you had something to do with that. You know how I feel about frosting.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Finally, the third Weight Watchers attempt over a year ago didn't take after the parents' divorce and the holidays from hell. And now? Well, now I am tired of the excuses I make to myself for not kicking you out permanently. You're bad news for my bad back and bad knees. You do NOTHING for me. You are sucking the life out of me - emotionally and physically. We're done. Pack your bags of lard and get out!!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Not-so-fondly,</i><br />
<i>Stroutacus</i><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-26122242346444766392013-02-24T19:20:00.000-08:002013-02-24T19:20:17.020-08:00Facebook: Friend or Foe?I am a Facebook addict. I have tried to "kick the habit" and even went off line for several days. And by several, I mean three. Okay, two and a half. Anyway, the point is that I still regularly log in, both on my computer and via my phone. On my phone I tend to focus on alerts from close friends and updating my own status or uploading photos. On the computer, however, I find myself scrolling through the newsfeed and refreshing constantly for new comments, notifications, any information that I can use as a distraction, and (guilty pleasure confession) playing games. I chastise myself for wasting time with it and yet I continue to incorporate it into my daily routine.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Over the past several years, my use of Facebook has evolved almost as much as its privacy policies. At first, I almost exclusively reported that I was "working" or "should be working but playing Farmville instead." Since then, after a combination of deeper psychological probing ("what's on your mind?"), an exponential increase in my number of associates ("friends") and family drama, I decided to incorporate a greater purpose to my contributions to the site. For example, I started a page for my favorite Simmental cow Lisa, in which she posts periodic updates about life on the farm from her perspective. Writing for Lisa allows me to use Facebook as an educational tool to promote agriculture as well as practice to sharpen my writing skills.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Beyond my posts, I have connected with people from all areas of my life. As a result, I have been inspired and educated. For starters, several people have enlightened me to various weight loss tools or shared their personal journeys which I find motivating. I discovered My Fitness Pal through Facebook and I cheer on friends making healthy decisions for themselves through programs like Weight Watchers. I've also seen some neat agricultural promotions along with general quotes and sentiments that stimulate my mind. Occasionally professional information and job leads are available.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Bottom line: Facebook can be a foe but it can be a friend. It's all in how you use it, I guess. In the grand scheme of things I may regret spending so much time on Bejeweled Blitz (even if I did torch it up for over a million points), but there are people who would not be in my life at all if it weren't for social networking. Besides enjoying those renewed friendships, I hope to continue to utilize it in the most positive and beneficial manner possible for both my weight loss struggle and agricultural advocacy, or "agvocacy". Granted it would be a bit easier if everyone chose to be more positive in their posts but life is meant to be full of challenges, isn't it?</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-50682243182853707752013-02-05T20:10:00.000-08:002013-02-05T20:10:12.797-08:00Resolutions Still on Track!It's strange how I was convinced I blogged twice in January when, obviously, I did not. As an update on my New Year's Resolutions, I have not lost one pound. I have lost TWO pounds! So now, for the next eleven months, I just need to "maintain" my success. <br />
<br />
This post is part of my second resolution, to blog more regularly. Knowing how busy I will be in the coming months, I plan to write at least once more this month so I can stay on top of my goal (ten entries over eight different months). <br />
<br />
I'm still working on family member forgiveness. No major progress on that front.<br />
<br />
I haven't pulled out the novel in a while, but that WILL change this month. I promise!<br />
<br />
Still no (full-time) job. Yet.<br />
<br />
I recently considered nother writing goal: writing a poem a week. I wrote a short one for my grandfather's birthday but I still need to write about five more to catch up. I'd feel a strong sense of accomplishment at the end of the year if I have written 50 poems that are not absolutely dreadful.<br />
<br />
I've been doing some reading, too. In January I finished<u> Lake Wobegon Days</u> by Garrison Keillor and <u>Billy Blockade/Morality</u> by Stephen King. I'm currently reading Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy and I am finding it enjoyable.<br />
<br />
Finally, I find myself trying not to watch any more repeats on television. There are many wonderful new contributions to culture that I have decided to take advantage of, like <u>Suits</u>, <u>Elementary</u> and my latest obsession: <u>Downton Abbey</u>. I am five episodes into the first season and unanswered questions are eating me up...like what is up with Bates's situation and why can't he and Anna just be happy together???<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-45829587272376324042013-01-01T20:52:00.000-08:002013-01-01T20:52:52.783-08:00It's that time of year again!New Year's Resolutions - yay!! I'm not sure why I get so excited to write down "resolutions" that I do not keep. Perhaps I should be concerned about ruining my credibility, but frankly, I was quite amused to read the seven resolutions I made last year and didn't come close to keeping ANY of them. So tonight I write down the 2013 Resolutions, and God willing, will be able to look back and laugh on January 1, 2014.<br />
<br />
2013 Resolutions of Stroutacus:<br />
<br />
1). Lose weight. Yes, I am one of those people, wanting to lose weight. But this year, I have a specific goal in mind. I RESOLVE TO LOSE ONE POUND in 2013.<br />
<br />
2). Blog regularly. Of course, I had this resolution for 2012 and there were no blog entries after the end of July. So I have crafted a more specific goal for this one as well: I RESOLVE TO BLOG TEN TIMES IN EIGHT DIFFERENT MONTHS in 2013 (I'm already 10% there!).<br />
<br />
3). Forgive certain family members. I can only move forward from past pain by forgiving those who have inflicted it on me, but man, it's tough to do when it is so much easier to pout and be angry. Still, I am putting it out there as a resolution. Now, I would pick one to forgive, but I am equally angry with all of them so I don't know where I'd begin. Maybe the sister-in-law...you know, get the most difficult one out of the way.<br />
<br />
4). I resolve to finish my book in 2013. End of story...literally.<br />
<br />
5). GET A JOB. Okay, that's not really a resolution so much as a "To-Do" item. I think I'm starting to get<br />
confused.<br />
<br />
Happy New Year!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-89604521576280974462012-07-30T20:54:00.000-07:002012-07-30T20:54:20.005-07:00One week down...The first week of my new weight loss journey has been fairly typical of my previous attempts. I've lost 5 pounds - mostly water weight, I'm sure - but I have made some serious changes and I'm definitely concerned about being able to maintain them. I keep reminding myself that I have neglected myself for too long and the "sacrifices" I have to make are necessary. They are also fairly minor, really - why should I tell myself, "yes, you may have whatever you want to eat and you may eat as much as you'd like"? <div><br />
</div><div>In addition to changing the diet, I have started to exercise again and that definitely feels great. So I'm trying to stay positive and have a goal of maintaining the new healthier lifestyle for at least 30 days. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-2963252032754757952012-07-22T18:28:00.000-07:002012-07-22T18:28:47.489-07:00Here I go again!After taking a break during my weight loss journey (okay, I got lost, circled back a ways BUT I found the path again), I am starting back up. Instead of using WeightWatchers or SparkPeople, I have opted for the free My FitnessPal. It fits into my budget better than WeightWatchers does, and although it's very similar to SparkPeople, I think the novelty and simplicity of it will help me stay with it long-term. I found out about it through an acquaintance on Facebook and I was very impressed with her results. Keeping my fingers crossed that my motivation will stay with me!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/weight-loss-ticker"><img border="0" src="http://tickers.myfitnesspal.com/ticker/show/2660/6867/26606867.png" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center; width: 420px;"><small>Created by MyFitnessPal - <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/">Free Weight Loss</a> Tools</small></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-65973541587212442572012-02-17T17:50:00.000-08:002012-02-17T17:50:13.101-08:00Six weeks later...The Resolution Locomotive left New Year's Junction at a steady, if not slow and bumpy pace. It is now safe to say, though, that the line has completely derailed just shy of Six Week Station.<div><br />
</div><div>Writing? Well, the blogging has improved somewhat but I have not been writing nearly enough. Weight loss? Ha. Although I did hop on the treadmill once a week the last couple weeks. Reading? Sort of. I'm now about 50 pages into Anna Karenina - woo hoo! (seriously, I am enjoying the story even though it doesn't seem to be reading "quickly"). Budget? Not quite what I had hoped. I've been maxing out the allotment for groceries. Job? I don't think I have been making as much progress there as I should have, but there is still time and I do feel more focused, although I foresee the need for more training which means more debt. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Perhaps you're reading this, and thinking, "man, why do I need to read about <i>this</i>?" You don't, so I do appreciate your time BUT I am feeling both relief because it is only six-seven weeks into the year so I can still turn it around and I am also feeling more accountability for the goals I made for myself just by putting them out into the beautiful blogosphere. Hopefully, you may feel the same if you are in a similar situation with your resolutions. In the immortal words of Red Green, "I'm pulling for you. We're all in this together."</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-36642646187579659422012-02-06T14:24:00.000-08:002012-02-06T19:53:00.328-08:00The Adventures of JessAnn SimmentalsGreetings to Rural Women Rock followers and thank you for taking the time to read!<br />
<br />
I am a co-owner of JessAnn Simmentals with my mother and brother. My mother does a lot of the heavy lifting, in more ways than one, but we utilize our different strengths to make our small cow-calf operation work. I love working with Simmental beef cattle because they make excellent mothers, muscle well and tend to have pretty good dispositions (although our cattle dislike men, for some reason). We refer to ourselves as hobby farmers, and as a hobby, beef cattle can be expensive and stressful at times. But when things go well, and the cattle grow well, then it is the most satisfying work that can be done.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtWeFvaUV6QVQ0LzWBElSrca0Gk3o8xnLKVVHp7sdyoaq1iufKAITaOGV4PgDcLb7e-ViYdbDIYyDIzEfhfPSoPCZ8by10MtsAMWIUmXXEdwsNIsDqRck_rftBBu-zo3TDdfh42uQEy7Q/s1600/IMG_1756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtWeFvaUV6QVQ0LzWBElSrca0Gk3o8xnLKVVHp7sdyoaq1iufKAITaOGV4PgDcLb7e-ViYdbDIYyDIzEfhfPSoPCZ8by10MtsAMWIUmXXEdwsNIsDqRck_rftBBu-zo3TDdfh42uQEy7Q/s320/IMG_1756.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I bought my first Simmental, Lady Nick, from Bartlett Island Farm in 1998. I selected her using the most scientific method possible that only the best judges use: I liked the way the she looked at me. Not the way she looked TO me. She made eye contact and I decided I wanted her. Lisa is the last daughter of Lady. Lisa reminds me a lot of her mother, both in looks and disposition. She is now bred to a purebred Simmental bull, after being bred to Holsteins two years in a row, so I hope she has a heifer in the spring.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgct01wv9cdZNYdTY2-b3G03pL2XWK21AWid7IIbZNa1DfruHUgSWXLguxEapvD68z9AE5HfTMZ8rdMHm7AyPPjNWI0V2PG-Rd2UlAQrOjPLWFNOrd-R8eAqe4qHkzfh_jclgmD0aG4hX4/s1600/Fall+2011+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgct01wv9cdZNYdTY2-b3G03pL2XWK21AWid7IIbZNa1DfruHUgSWXLguxEapvD68z9AE5HfTMZ8rdMHm7AyPPjNWI0V2PG-Rd2UlAQrOjPLWFNOrd-R8eAqe4qHkzfh_jclgmD0aG4hX4/s320/Fall+2011+031.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Mom thinks Lisa is spoiled. She will violate the "hula hoop rule" of personal space with people when grain is involved, and I never have corrected her for it. I'm not the only human spoiling bovines in the operation, however, and I would say that Mom's favorite is Maebelle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGKw_S3JEmUQlnUrYyufJmDmltE8cXWjTBuQ2F-jIrTLLwJPkGeHLP77DZ2rFp_vOr1sgCA7tmIc9ZIVxaly4nWuUA7-zu1VQoeHnKz0f8mb2VcuEDrQEoCfc17P2mSCmK4u1R0wjeCpg/s1600/Fall+2011+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGKw_S3JEmUQlnUrYyufJmDmltE8cXWjTBuQ2F-jIrTLLwJPkGeHLP77DZ2rFp_vOr1sgCA7tmIc9ZIVxaly4nWuUA7-zu1VQoeHnKz0f8mb2VcuEDrQEoCfc17P2mSCmK4u1R0wjeCpg/s320/Fall+2011+017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Our cows are as important to us as we are to them. We do everything we can to ensure they are healthy, safe and content. Despite our personal off-farm struggles, we have been able to continue developing our herd. Through this process I learned what my mother is capable of doing when her back is against the wall (which is only part of the reason she is one of my top Rural Women Rock Stars). Her ability to handle everything on her plate is simply remarkable. I also gained a greater understanding of how important beef cattle, rural living and supportive friends and family are to me. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0b7hFGMTxOzX8P3_6xFlv5Cn86OXDItwSE4cAu7z99T6wI80j2PE0gL2W0wV2E455wtbLPU3H7hqV-9IHlvfnJi5j7ybdavxglyuyPQJo42e5FRv9JN2LFOR-pFQXOLRv1LkhCxidqA/s1600/IMG_0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0b7hFGMTxOzX8P3_6xFlv5Cn86OXDItwSE4cAu7z99T6wI80j2PE0gL2W0wV2E455wtbLPU3H7hqV-9IHlvfnJi5j7ybdavxglyuyPQJo42e5FRv9JN2LFOR-pFQXOLRv1LkhCxidqA/s320/IMG_0061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Thank you Rural Women Rock for the opportunity to share my story, and I hope you enjoyed a little slice of life from Maine.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-15792618316740962492012-02-06T06:45:00.000-08:002012-02-06T06:45:00.542-08:00Seven Thoughts on a Super BowlI follow sports, and with my home team New England Patriots in the title game, I sat down and watched it through to the end. The soul-crushing, heart-rending, agonizing end.<br />
<br />
1) Team entrance songs: New York plays what is essentially a pop song while New England comes out to Ozzy. New England 1, New York 0. <br />
<br />
2) Kudos to Tom Coughlin for singing along with America the Beautiful and the Star Spangled Banner. I understand coaches and players have their rituals and mental preparations before a game, but why not carve out a minute a two to show respect? It would certainly set an example for fans.<br />
<br />
3) Still can't believe Brady scored the first two points for the Giants...however, that kicker did an amazing job of pinning the Pats near the end zone throughout the game.<br />
<br />
4) Commercials: if they continue to be disappointing, will the advertising lose its effectiveness and worth? There were some gems - and these led me to the conclusion that comedic commercials with dogs or Betty White are solid bets.<br />
<br />
5) Best commercial overall was Samsung Galaxy Note. Why? It was over the top, had humor ("this feels like detention") I know what the product was, I loved the song used, and - most importantly - I. WANT. ONE. Marketing success.<br />
<br />
6) Halftime Show: Definitely a show. Madonna's older music was great, but I do believe her latest song is more appropriate for Avril Lavigne or The Pussycat Dolls. Overall, it was far better than last year's show featuring Black Eyed Peas. I think we can all agree that lip-synching (although necessary to not incur the wrath of the FCC) takes something away from the artists and their performances.<br />
<br />
7) I am a Patriots fan. The last play was absolutely heartbreaking BUT shouldn't every Super Bowl end with a Hail Mary attempt?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-56905992600811986402012-02-03T18:42:00.000-08:002012-02-03T18:42:18.468-08:00Inspiration in the strangest places<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiGoyNctLcBsEIl-WlKev7DDdfvmTKritI7Uyj0GXy6ehrDqnBiwPEHf46FRTEtX0HVoKt1BDfTLIWXcR8bsStLT-BN5tr4ThS7udEiAaKhVksLzOaUCq7EJtoGWI8O9jfsYCVuDAfLc/s1600/Feb2012+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiGoyNctLcBsEIl-WlKev7DDdfvmTKritI7Uyj0GXy6ehrDqnBiwPEHf46FRTEtX0HVoKt1BDfTLIWXcR8bsStLT-BN5tr4ThS7udEiAaKhVksLzOaUCq7EJtoGWI8O9jfsYCVuDAfLc/s320/Feb2012+021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For me, this photograph represents finding something unique in something fairly ordinary. If you must know what it is before reading any more, scroll to the bottom of the blog entry. But today, I saw this and decided to capture it with my camera because I saw something abstractly beautiful. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As a hobby photographer, I am always seeking the "Kodak moments" that surround me. Usually, it is in the landscape around me, but sometimes I see them in animals and people (especially in relaxed, natural poses and actions). I love looking out off the back porch and watching the sunset each night because it is always beautiful and always, always different. And of course, I love unexpected artistic moments like the one above.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photographs are not the only creative endeavors for which I seek and find unexpected inspiration. As I returned from morning errands, and had my Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' Greatest Hits blaring away on the car's sound system, my mind wandered to a future blog entry topic. This type of behavior is exactly why I have NO desire to text while I drive. Anyway, it was the first time I can recall the Heartbreakers being able to single-handedly turn on the faucet of my creative juices so hopefully I can turn to them again when I need help (or just need to hear "American Girl" one....more....time....).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As for the above picture? Beet juice in a stainless steel kitchen sink.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-88229116120346128362012-01-30T19:13:00.000-08:002012-01-30T20:03:34.772-08:00Furry ChildrenGrowing up on the farm, I befriended more than my fair share of the four-legged employees. Inevitably, there came a day when a "pet" appeared on the table in the form of a meal. Despite the troubling experience, I still ate the food prepared for me and eventually, I became accustomed - desensitized may be more accurate - to the process of both working with and caring for animals that ultimately ended up at the dinner table.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>The thought of animals as companions only was not a foreign concept, however. We owned several dogs and cats that shared our household. For a brief part of college and the several years of Vermont apartment life, I did not have animal roommates. Now, though, I find myself with two cats and one dog (plus a tank teeming with guppies) and I am feeling more like a "parent" as I referee their interactions and prevent broken belongings.</div><div><br />
</div><div>For several years, I enjoyed (for the most part) the dynamics between Scooby and Lilly, which were isolated incidents of "wrestling" and Lilly chasing Scooby. With the addition of Ziva, the barn rescue kitten, it has changed the household completely. She definitely has a personality, and Lilly and Scooby each interact with her in their own way. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Lilly loves wrestling with Ziva, and despite the David-and-Goliath nature of the match-up, Ziva seems to enjoy it as well. In fact, I heard her purr as she bites, claws and twists to get away from the dog. Lilly tends to initiate contact with the kitten. Scooby, on the other hand, tries to avoid the kitten at all costs. Recently I did see him <i>willingly</i> chase her. I haven't decided if it is out of playfulness or maliciousness yet. The following photo was taken just after he hit her in the face, but he doesn't look overly upset.<br />
<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3PXb4142VqPlcrkSioIwGLOsibJO7SgiVaEf13ZyrZ9qeEt5SFLV07f_tTRpFmf3gBhcbfWcp_H1t3iluXQDuRFoPf0PI_pIuuFzMTohwhiEcmIYa6bNZ8wtIPoVgZQjFCiD4n-lXDA/s1600/Winter2012_jan+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3PXb4142VqPlcrkSioIwGLOsibJO7SgiVaEf13ZyrZ9qeEt5SFLV07f_tTRpFmf3gBhcbfWcp_H1t3iluXQDuRFoPf0PI_pIuuFzMTohwhiEcmIYa6bNZ8wtIPoVgZQjFCiD4n-lXDA/s320/Winter2012_jan+020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-37078314743830652982012-01-27T19:11:00.000-08:002012-01-27T19:12:12.266-08:00Wacky Winter WeatherThis week produced some wacky weather here in central Maine. Although today's wintry mix across the state was typical January fare (and again, we were squarely in the belt of snow/sleet/freezing rain mix), earlier this week we had a couple mild days. Most of the ice melted from the driveway and temperatures reached into the upper 40s. With a light breeze and occasional sunshine, all I could think of was this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSPHCNXQpZsUmG_KwMaXGQ1dz5RUdJVRKtYdDEhzfuCdbMZNoSjHsU_cc-Eng83D_D4eso6akx87RBdL6ymQ92TxXmD8wx2ESwdod-mbCqItyvii-XdH3_1_4HfaI4GqZM-kLvnqATC4/s1600/IMG_2168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSPHCNXQpZsUmG_KwMaXGQ1dz5RUdJVRKtYdDEhzfuCdbMZNoSjHsU_cc-Eng83D_D4eso6akx87RBdL6ymQ92TxXmD8wx2ESwdod-mbCqItyvii-XdH3_1_4HfaI4GqZM-kLvnqATC4/s320/IMG_2168.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Ah, softball...can't wait until March!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-48316518346346467362012-01-25T17:52:00.000-08:002012-01-25T17:52:10.071-08:00Ambition, thy name is....any work by TolstoyOn Google+, I had remarked that I should have including "reading more" on my list of resolutions. If I had, that would have provided me with at least one resolution that would likely be accomplished. I shouldn't be too hard on myself; it is still the first month. So far, I have one regret - I didn't make it to church last Sunday, and I won't be able to go next Sunday due to an out-of-town conference. Otherwise, my other goals still have potential.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I read <b>Water for Elephants</b>, <b>Bednob and Broomstick</b>, <b>Stuart Little</b>, and <b>Julie and Julia</b>. I just started <b>Anna Karenina</b>. And when I mean "just started" I mean I am 20 pages in after an hour of reading. So I have a ways to go since I don't anticipate the pace to pick up much over the next 780 pages or so. But I will definitely feel a sense of accomplishment once I finish the tome; and so far I do find it interesting. <br />
<br />
Once I finish Anna Karenina, I will likely opt for some Stephen King or some other contemporary work that should read fast. Or I may take a break from reading altogether for a while!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4828610469122197114.post-81354923937410609242012-01-18T16:29:00.000-08:002012-01-18T16:29:16.996-08:00Is there a grace period for resolutions?<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">Feeling guilty that I haven't been blogging lately, I decided to review all of my "new year's resolutions" while I thought of it. I haven't written 1000 words a day yet; missed blogging last week altogether; exercised for 30 minutes a day an average of six days a week (although it's been low intensity); attended church once this month; did some research on teacher certification; lost one pound total in the last three weeks; and I blew my monthly budget about a week ago - yikes!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">In summary, I have some work to do to make progress with all of my resolutions but it's still early in the year. Even though I may not experience a lot of initial success, I know that things can turn around. There's plenty of time left in 2012!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eef4ff; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #eef4ff; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">On an unrelated note, I am very proud to say that Ziva is officially housebroken - thanks to Lilly the Super Sheltie-Aussie. If I had to use one pet to house train the other, does that make me a horrible pet owner, or a spectacular one?</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0