Finally! Happy Day #8

Okay, let's finish this thing up! Thank you, Erin, for reminding me. Scrapbooking makes me happy--mostly. There have been those times when I absolutely hated projects I was working on. To the point where I thought I'd rip it up the next day. The amazing thing, though, is that the next day I almost always look at the very same project and think, "Wow, I kinda like it!" Or even, "You know, that's pretty good!" How does that happen? And why? I have no idea. But whether I enjoy the project when I'm working on it or not, I do love the whole process. I even love just looking at my supplies. It's very satisfying to me, somehow. I've always said, and I think it's true, that scrapbooking helps me to feel creative when I absolutely know that I am not. I've always wanted to be, though, and am always in awe of those people I know who are truly creative. It amazes me. I like talking about it with other scrapbookers, reading about it, collecting supplies for it--pretty much just about everything.

My next large scrapbooking related project is creating a scrap room for myself. I was inspired by a blog that I follow (thepinkstamper.blogspot.com). I love the idea of getting all my stuff really well organized, and actually having enough room. I acknowledge that part of the problem with that is that I just have too much stuff, but let's not go there. It's actually made me happy just thinking about this project, and I keep having new ideas about what I might do with it. I'm giving up a guest room for it, but since no one's used our guest room in a long long time, I think it's a safe enough change. (For anyone who actually wants to stay here as a guest, there's still a sofa bed available, and you're welcome.)

I'll post some pictures when I actually start working on the room. The first part will be to empty it out. It has been the receptacle for lots of the stuff cast off from Jessica's room and all her crafting supplies. It's pretty full. We've emptied out quite a bit already (darn, I should have taken a picture before we started), but there's still lots to go.

I know, this has been a ramble. But what can I say? I think I was just desperate to get this assignment finished. Pictures to follow...

Happy Day #8 - not quite yet!

Okay, this thing should have ended with 7 days. I cannot come up with anything today. That kind of a day. I guess I'm just not feelin' it. I'll try again tomorrow.

Happy Day #7

It makes me happy to get a lot done, especially on an extra day off, since it is essentilaly "found" time. Then at night, when I feel tired, it can be accompanied by a sense of accomplishment, and not just the usual thought about how old I am! (As in, "of course I'm tired--I'm OLD!"). It's 8:43 a.m. and here is my plan for today, in two parts:

Home:

1) paint furniture for Jessica's room
2) call garage door company, schedule appt
3) Fix toilet seat
4) Measure Jessica's windows for curtains
5) Make birthday cards (gift cards for work friends)
6) Work on scrapbooking room (more on that later)
7) Touch up trim in hall, bedroom
8) Pay bills
9) Shopping/errands (below)

Out:

Bank

Kohls - My job this month is to buy gift cards for the birthday dinner for two friends at work, one from Kohls and one from Target

Dunn Edwards paint - need to touch up the wall in the hallway where Jessica took out a good-sized chunk out last night (let's not go there, okay?) She feels terrible about it and it was truly an accident, so I'm trying not to feel too irritated about it.

Golden Spoon Yogurt - it's near the paint store, so I can't miss the opportunity to get some of that yummy peanut Butter Cup flavor!)

Costco

Target - the second gift card, pharmacy for Jessi's meds

Stater Bros.

So, that's the plan. Now, let's see how successful I am. Nothing makes me happier than being able to cross off every item on a list! (Well, I'm sure some things do, but not many.)

Painting again!! (Part 2)

So the painting is done. Am I happy about that? Yes. Am I happy with the job? Sort of. The guy wasn't as careful with the details as I would have liked, or as I would have been myself. But I'm trying to just look at the completed job and be grateful for that. I can fix the little things myself, and I plan to. THEN maybe I'll be completely happy!

Here's the stairwell and the upstairs hallway.

And Jessica's room. Don't tell anyone, but it's way pinker than I expected from the paint chip. She really wanted a deeper red, and I talked her out of it (sorry, Jessi). I think she was right, but I'll never tell her that; I'd never live it down. I may, at some point, re-do it the color she wanted in the first place.

But for now she's happy with it, so it's our little secret, okay? Promise?!

Happy Day #6 (slightly late)

My friends make me happy, and contribute so much to my life. I feel blessed to have many truly good friends, some of whom are as close as family could ever be.

There are many who I could describe here, but I'm going to describe a day with just two friends from work today. Claudia and Geri work on the nursing unit where I worked until about 5 years ago. I still work at the same hospital, but in a different capacity. I'm still close to them, and interact with them at work frequently still. We also do things together sometimes on weekends from time to time, and I've even recently gotten Claudia started scrapbooking.

Another friend of ours, Mary, had been ill for quite a few years, and recently had had many new health problems which really discouraged her, including ongoing dialysis and then an amputation of one leg, with an impending probable second amputation. She was very tired, and I think that final loss of her independence was just more than she could take. She decided several months ago to stop dialysis and let nature take its course; she entered an inpatient hospice unit in April and within two weeks had died a peaceful and serene death.

Claudia, Geri and I visited with her after she entered hospice. We reminisced about many fun times, and laughed and cried together. One memory was Mary's favorite--the time she took Claudia and Geri to The Crab Cooker in Newport Beach for her favorite meal, their lobster specialty. (I couldn't go that day, since I'm the only one of us with a Monday through Friday work schedule.) When we were talking that day at her bedside, she held my hand and told me that I must go there, that I would love it. We promised her that we three

would go to The Crab Cooker for lunch one day soon for my birthday, and we would think of Mary while we were there. Well today was the day, and we did it!

It's little more than a shack on a busy corner near the beach. An interesting place, though. This huge shark is hanging from the ceiling (it was caught in the ocean across the street!).

It was a beautiful Newport Beach day--perfect weather. We ate lunch, and then went across the street to the ocean. We got a chocolate covered banana for dessert at a little stand across from the ocean (also on Mary's agenda for us), and ate it while we sat and watched the sailboats and kids playing in the surf.

Some more pictures from today. Come to think of it, beautiful days like today make me happy too! Especially when I am not at work and can be out enjoying them!

Thanks, Claudia and Geri, for a great birthday lunch and a fun time. And thanks, Mary--we remember you!

Happy Day #5

Dang, is it only day #5?

Okay, this one's easy. It makes me happy reading people's blogs, and even their comments on mine. I wish more people that I know were blogging, actually. I keep trying with a few people, but so far it's not working. I really feel like I've gotten to know people better, and I love that more than anything. I love reading what people are doing, how and what they think, what they're feeling. These things have always completely fascinated me.

Happy Day #4

Okay, this one truly is going to be short. I know I've said that before, and then rambled on for days.

It makes me happy to sit and look at the ocean, feel the breeze and smell the salt air. These pictures were taken from our ocean view hotel room in Seattle, on the way back from our Alaska cruise last year.

Even though Jessica got really sick and we were literally stuck in our hotel room for two days, instead of doing the tourist thing in Seattle, I have to say I didn't really mind all that much because I just sat by the open window and looked out at this view of the beautiful Pacific Ocean.

I rarely feel as relaxed and calm as I do when I'm at the ocean.

The question then becomes, obviously, if I love the ocean so much, and it does make me happy to be there, why don't I ever spend any time there? This time in Seattle was the first time I'd been at the ocean in so many years I can't even really remember the last time. I doubt that anyone who knows me would even suspect this about me, because I literally NEVER go to the beach. This wouldn't be so bad, I guess, if I lived in Nebraska or Tennessee, but duh! I live in Southern California about an hour and a half away from any number of beautiful beaches. Sad, huh.

Happy Day #3

Well here we go again. This is getting hard, just as I thought it would. I'm going for a quick and easy one today, just because it's late--again, and I'm tired--again. One thing that makes me happy is flowers, probably especially tulips. Lots and lots of them. It was pure bliss for me when we visited the Butchart Gardens last year in Victoria BC. I could have spent the whole day there, but we only had a few hours; I'll definitely have to make it back there some day!

I have had sort of an epiphany thinking about these happiness blog posts. I was thinking about why it should be hard for me to come up with 8 things that make me happy. It really shouldn't be a difficult thing, should it? In thinking about it, I was kind of surprised to realize that there actually are plenty of things that make me happy, it's just that I don't experience them very often. So that got me to start thinking about why not, and how I should spend more time on those kinds of things, and less on some others. The challenge has always been that there just isn't enough time, plain and simple. But, that's something that everyone has to deal with, and some people do manage to find time for those things that are fulfilling for them, and that make them happy. So why don't I?

The answer to that is another whole post (actually it sounds like a subject for a therapy session). There is a reason, of course, or more likely many reasons; I'm just not sure this is the forum to pursue the question. However, it has prompted me to consider it, and that's surely a good thing. So obviously, at this point, I've not found the answer; but at least I'm asking the question. I'll have to work on it.

Happy Day #2

Okay, this will be short--I'm tired. I had to really think about this, because as I suspected, it was a bit hard to come up right away with the second thing that makes me happy. Then I was reading Erin's blog post about their California Adventure trip last week, and it came to me.

It is most fulfilling to see Erin with her family, to see what an amazing mom she is. The thought frequently occurs to me that I am so happy she is the mother of my grandchildren. When she was a little girl, she loved the song "When I Grow Up, I Want To Be A Mother," and I remember thinking that I was sure she'd make a good one some day. Then later, for a time, I wasn't so sure she still wanted to be one, the way she once had. After all, she never really babysat, never spent time with little kids, or seemed to be interested in or enjoy them at all.

But when she had her children, oh my goodness, what a blossoming! She instinctively knows what they need, and provides it--physically, emotionally, spiritually, intellectually--in every possible way. She's kind, patient, and understanding when they need that, yet strong and determined when they need that.

All I can say is that it is amazing and rewarding to watch, and makes me very happy indeed! And now, in about 5 months, we get to do it again with a brand new little one!

Pursuit of Happiness Day #1

I was tagged by Donna to do this Pursuit of Happiness thing. For 8 days, write about one thing that makes you happy, and tag 8 others to do the same. A worthwhile project, I think, as it helps me focus on positive things. Those who know me well know that's sometimes a challenge for me. So here goes: I tag Erin, Carol, Lauren, Megan, Melissa, Natalie, Sabrina, and anyone else who wants to take the challenge. Hmmm, can I find 8 things? That shouldn't be hard, but somehow it seems like it might be.

The first one is very easy, though, and no surprise: my grandsons Tyler and Jaden. Just by their very existence. Their unbridled joy and bounding excitement when we first meet for a visit; I actually feel Jaden's little body shaking with excitement when we first meet and hug. Their little faces smiling up at me. Jaden's giggle, and how much it reminds me of his mother at his age. Tyler's serious and thoughtful nature. Listening to their stories of discovery or wonder or adventure. Hearing about their latest Primary or school lessons. Listening to their prayers. Loving them and being loved by them.

Yes, just looking at these faces makes me smile and feel very happy indeed. Shoot! I just realized I used up at least 8 things just on these boys. Oh well, they're all true. I'll start working on thinking of 7 more things that make me happy, although I doubt any one of them, or all of them, can top these guys!

Painting -- again!

No one likes to change things up more than Jessica. Given half a chance, she paints, and re-paints, anything in sight! Several years ago I painted her bedroom myself, and thought it should last her at least 5 years. But no, she already has tired of it and wants a new color. Now, I'll grant you that she probably is very bored, sitting around with nothing to do much of the time. So it gives her time to think and plan (some might say "scheme"), and before you know it, things are different.

Anyway, here's my confession. I promised her I'd re-paint her room last year for her birthday. Actually two rooms were involved and I did actually do the other room. But her bedroom has been torn apart and ready to paint since last August. And since it's now May I'd say I'm WAY behind on keeping that promise. I know that part of the delay was realizing how much work it was doing that other room, and since I'm doing it by myself, I was just feeling way too lazy.

So, here's what her room looks like now. Dark blue on the bottom, light blue on the top of the walls and ceiling (yes, what was I thinking, even the ceiling!). There used to be a wallpaper border in the middle. It's kind of a small room, and there's junk in the way, but I think you can get the idea.

At work the other day, someone mentioned hiring a painter. To be honest I'd never even thought of it! I think I'm so used to not ever really having enough money, actually spending money for something like this never even crossed my mind. In a whole lifetime of painting experience, it has always been a do-it-myself project. But when we were talking at work, I realized I just am not up to it, and I could actually afford to hire someone. So, I hired a painter, and he's hard at work as I write this post (I even turned on the A/C for him; I know how hard a job it is). I've taken these "before" pictures of the bedroom and the hallway he's going to paint today. I'll add the "after" shots... well, after.

Here's the stairwell. I had painted part of it a few years ago, but too late realized I'd never be able to do the upper part of the stairwell. Although I did stand on a ladder for the higher parts of the walls, there was no way I was going to stand on a ladder on the stairs. I'm not that brave (or foolhardy)!

This is the hallway upstairs. The same chalk white paint that was in the house when I bought it 11 years ago. You know, the kind that comes off if you even brush against it.

So this is it for now. More later (hopefully looking much better). Stay tuned for Part 2.

Happy Birthday at D-Land

Just couldn't pass up the chance to go to Disneyland for free last month on my birthday!

































They give you this pin at the beginning of the day. All day long, everyone says "Happy Birthday" to you, even little kids. It's kinda fun.



The weather was great, sunny and cool--perfect Disneyland weather. It was a bit more crowded than I'd hoped. It seems every private school west of the Mississippi was on Spring Break. Every one of those kids had the same idea. As in, "What are YOU doing for Spring Break?" "We're going to Disneyland!"


Our friend Claudia went with Jessica and me. (Needed someone to help keep Jessica out of trouble!)







The "Celebrate" parade was cute. I have a soft spot for the old Main Street Electrical Parade, though. I always miss it. I hear it still goes on at California Adventure, though, so one of these days I'm going to have to catch it there and reminisce.


As this sign at the end of the refurbished It's A Small World ride says, it's always a good time to "come play" at Disneyland!

STAR OF THE WEEK!

A couple of weeks ago, Erin told me that Tyler was going to be "Star of the Week" at his school, starting on May 11. She asked me if I'd like to make the "all about me" poster he needed for the event. Are you kidding? This is nothing but a giant scrapbook page! I'd love to!

It gave me a chance to use my new Cricut machine. I used it for this Mickey Mouse; I think he looks so good you'd think I just bought a Mickey sticker or die cut. But no! I cut it with the Cricut and pieced it together. Gotta love my Cricut!

Tyler is a Star Wars fanatic, so of course I had to include some Star Wars stuff! I was shocked to discover that there are no Star Wars scrapbooking supplies. I guess I'd never looked for them before. Rotten timing, since I was told they should be coming out by the end of this month. It just would NOT be Tyler without Star Wars! I finally found a Star Wars sticker book at Toys R Us, and adapted. Just in case you were wondering, his favorite character is "Jango Fett--and all the Jedi."

The pictures at the bottom are from last Halloween--he was Darth Vader, and later made up as Darth Maul.

The final product:

It probably took way too much time, but it was oh so fun. How could it not be, since it involved my two favorite things--grandchildren and scrapbooking! Thanks for letting me do it, Erin!

Tagged

I was tagged awhile ago and never followed through. The assignment is to post the 6th picture in the 6th folder on your computer, and tell about it. This is mine. My picture is of this sunset over the lake in Honeyville, Utah. This was taken when we visited in the summer of 2007. I'm planning a trip this August, and this reminds me why I'm excited to go; we always have so much fun there, and especially enjoy seeing what's new at the lake.

I have no idea who to tag, so consider yourself tagged if you read this and want to do it.

Confessions of a Peanut Butter Cup-a-holic

I've gone through phases where I enjoy frozen yogurt as a fairly sinless treat. Usually at Golden Spoon, I choose the Peanut Butter or Pistachio, or one of the fruit flavors. But recently I read online--don't ask me how I came upon this--where someone was raving about Peanut Butter Cup. I'd never tried it, so a few weeks ago I stopped in and tried it. I am a believer! I doubt I'll ever order anything else--oh my gosh, it is yummy! Those first couple of bites are just like biting into a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup.

By the way, for anyone interested, the Regular size is only 3 points on WW (176 calories).

A New Fridge

Okay, I admit it. This is a fairly boring, mundane subject. But, I'm happy about it. My current fridge is 16 years old (I'm pretty sure--maybe 17). I know it could probably last longer, but I think it's pretty much lived its life. It freezes anything that gets pushed too far to the back, and the freezer door does not close tightly any more; I'm sure it wastes lots of energy. Not to mention the door handle actually fell off a few months ago, and is impossible to replace. Here it is, in all it's glory....

I've been eyeing some replacement prospects for some time, and have decided I want one with a bottom freezer. Just seems nice to have everything you want most of the time at eye level, rather than having to bend down to peer into the mysterious frosty depths to find what you need. And lately I've been looking at the models with French doors.

Sooo, last weekend we went to Sears to investigate; I've shopped a lot online and had tentatively decided on the model I wanted. It pretty much had everything I needed, and Sears was advertising a 20% sale on appliances, so it seemed to be the time. We'd barely seen one or two when Jessica started having a seizure, so of course everything was put on hold while I dealt with her. I grabbed a nearby camp chair and plopped her in it, and after checking her blood sugar discovered it was very low. So that was the reason for the seizure, not one of her other many problems. Once I got her sugar up, we just got her to the car (with a lot of help from numerous sales people) and went back home. So there went the shopping expedition--it seems nothing is ever as simple as it should be.

However, before leaving I found out from the saleswoman (while waiting for the glucose tablets to work on Jessica) that there was going to be a "friends and family invitational sale" this weekend, which would give me an additional 10% off the appliance of my choice. 30% off sounds good to me! I'll wait to finish this post with pictures of the new fridge--I know y'all would be disappointed not to see it here.

5/8: So, here it is! And, as you can see by Jessica's Vanna White impression, she's fine too.