Over the Meadow

and through the woods.....

Best holiday song: Nat King Cole "Chestnuts roasting on an open fire....."

Best holiday treat: See's Candy and Russian tea cookies

Best Seasonal Delight: Family, Friends, Festivity

Wishing you a lovely holiday and an inspired New Year.

XOXO

MountainMoxie

In Other News

One of the advantages of my current technical aggravations is the other stuff I have gotten done in lieu of actually going into the office tearing apart the current router and re-installing the old one that was much faster and has a reset button which I didn't think to use at the time but I am all over it now except for the part where I actually go do what needs to be done. I did, however, install the Google Accelerator and it seems to have helped. But I digress ...

I have been able to get some things done that I can share with you. Like Gromit, I am a knitter and tis the season for knitting. Unlike Gromit, I do not knit in bed, I knit on the sofa while watching TV and feel slightly less like a couch potato because I am doing something else while I watch "The Closer" or "Grey's Anatomy" or even "That Girl" which was running on TVLand all last weekend. That's right. I am creating! My current project is my secret santa gift for a co-worker. I finished it this weekend so it now has fringe on it and I am quite fond of it which is always a good sign for gift giving. There are several other projects in the works and finished but I dare not publish them here for fear of ruining someone's suprise.

Behold the yummy scarf!
Imagine fringe!

I have also had time to master this. My newest acquisition or shall I say my most recent purchase that was purely impulsive and designed to make me feel good.
I wouldn't actually consider myself a gal who would opt for the pink phone. I am more of a silver type gal. The silver was available but I actually was hoping for a black one (hello, indecisive) and they didn't have a black one so I chose the pink. Mostly because I haven't seen many pink ones. Did I mention this was an impulsive buy? Still, I am quite happy with my pink Razor that plays some sort of jazzy, breezy song when it rings. It did take a bit of sit down time to learn how to use and program it. I won't even go into the howls of protest this particular phone created with my spouse, let's just say that in the end he got the phone he wanted and I kept my pink Razor.

My reading time has certainly increased while I've been offline. Winter and early darkness and re-runs inspire me to curl up with a book as well. Last night I was reading a short story in Augusten Burroughs "Possible Side Effects" that I just received from my bookclub. I love getting books in the mail! He is writing about his french bulldog puppy and house-training difficulties and using a squirt gun method that caused a laugh out loud funny -spit water out of the mouth -full blown guffaw! I considered just stopping there for the evening because seriously how could you top that? Hilarious. I highly recommend it. I read Jodi Picoult's "Vanishing Acts" which I liked. I have not read anything by her before and this was a good choice. There is some really gripping and gritty stories relating to what it is like to do jail time that I found fascinating. Gang affiliations and drugs and all the other stuff you hear about. Who hasn't wondered or shuttered when they thought about what that must be like. She gives a good rounded picture of that while telling the other parts of the story, each from one of four main characters viewpoint. I read "But Inside I Am Screaming" by Elizabeth Flock. Interesting story of a woman's nervous breakdown yet I couldn't help thinking "Girl Interrupted" redux or maybe I should re-read "The Bell Jar".

I finished "The Book Thief" which I loved. Difficult to imagine a book about Germany, the persecution of jews, World War 2, etc...being lovable but the story was so sweet and lovely, the principle characters ordinary yet extraordinary in an abysmal time. All narrated by death in a form that was new and fresh, funny and wise, bittersweet and sad. I don't know how else to describe it. Read it. Very different. Although I had "The Historian" up on my site for a long time I am actually saving it for the deepest, coldest part of winter. Having started it and reading several chapters I knew this was a book that required the correct atmosphere...therefore, it sits waiting for late January/early February when a good, long book is just the thing to counter the seemingly endless feeling of winter.

Here in Carson City we got our Trader Joe's. Very Exciting. I told myself I wouldn't go on the day of the grand opening but I couldn't not go. Such is my enthusiasm for this store and its offerings. Scott at Around Carson was there earlier in the afternoon and had his camera at the ready.

We are having our first real snow today. Stick to the ground stuff that is covering everything in that pristine, glistening light. I still get excited about the snow here and I am more than happy to say, ya know, there's just nothing I need to do but hang out and get some things done at home.

Technical Difficulties

Yup...Yup...pulling my hair out...well not really but you know the feeling. Router malfunctions and technical support and still my DSL moves slower than dial up...so back to the store...return new router, try to resuscitate previous router...wonder why this is so hard...ha...think I know more than I do...this is really cutting into my seasonal shopping online!

Thankful

For family,
for friends,
for love,
for health,
for home,
for work,
for soaring mountains,
for clean crisp air,
for black cats,
for kiddles,
for music,
for books,
for simple things,
for every day,
I am thankful.

Seeing Red

Yes, I did. Stood in line for an hour for the honor. Consoled myself with thoughts of people around the world who aren't allowed the priviledge and it is a big one, right up there with freedom of speech.

Still, Nevada choose red as it's favorite color for the most part. I can't help but see results and think....ahhh....yawn...business as usual...good ole boys network wins again. Heartened by the fact Congress may go democratic and that Nancy Pelosi could be the first female speaker of the house. Puzzled by the fact that California re-elected the governator. Hoping any change can speed up an end to the war in Iraq and bring our boys home.

Weekend In New England

Devin
January 31, 1984 - October 25, 2006




The post title is a Barry Manilow song. I know, I know but that is how my mind wrapped itself around a week in Massachusetts following a tragic turn of events for MMhusband's nephew, Devin. There was beautiful foliage on the downside of fall and everytime I rode in the car the grief and wistfulness of this song would fill my head. The beauty of New England in the fall coupled with mourning the loss of a beloved young man was heartwrenching.

I could tell you about the intermidable wait for the wake and funeral. The anguish, dread, and full blown grief apparent on my brother-in-law's face. The absolute unity of those who surrounded him and supported him. Tears, and tears, and tears. The feeling of time standing still and each day feeling like a week. The laser focus of being in the moment because nothing is more important than this minute...holding on, listening, providing food, making yet another pot of coffee, hugging, hurting and consoling.

I could tell you about the amazing line of people who came to pay their respects at the wake. A line of people that started at 3:00 pm and continued on steady until 6:00 pm. How amazingly a fractured family: mother, daughter, father came together to stand proud and stoic throughout the afternoon. The poise and graciousness a young woman radiated in the midst of grieving her brother. The sudden ease of understanding between a mother and father. A united front for the love of a son lost too soon.

I could tell you the funeral was a somber affair and that the hardest part was getting out of the house, acknowledging the finality of the next step. Those of us not of the Baptist persuasion tried to maintain respect and decorum in the midst of a pointed message about our souls and how to save them. There was music to spur the tears with a little "disco jesus" in there for whatever reason.

I could tell you it was bittersweet to listen to young men speak from the podium of friendship and love. Sadder still when those young men bore the coffin of their friend to its final resting place. To watch the overwhelming emotion spill from their eyes, no longer able to contain unbearable grief. Forced into adulthood in ways we try so hard to protect them from.

I could tell you that people came for two days to share condolences and food and to say a prayer for the dead in the evenings. That my brother-in-law talked openly and often: a change from his "close to the vest" ways and there was great relief that he felt protected and safe enough with us that he could open up.

I could tell you that most of us were running on 4 hours sleep a night and that giddy-ness would creep in and the cousins would gather in the dining room to recap the day, tell stories, and laugh, forging closer bonds with each other and feeling hope for healing, for life.

I can tell you that there was a red haired boy with a mischeavious glint in his eye and a heart of gold who will be remembered always. Rest in peace.

"Oh very young, what will you leave us this time?
You are only dancing on this earth for a short while."
-cat stevens-

Back Soon

To Do List

There are some pretty interesting events in and around Reno that happen in September and October. It is my hope to attend some of them NEXT year since this year I am way too preoccupied with my house and unpacking and organizing and all that. I thought you might like to hear about a few things lest you still think Carson City is the gateway to Siberia...

Click Here to see a cool high speed video of the Reno Balloon Races. Happens yearly around the second week in September.

Complimenting the Reno Balloon race weekend is the Virginia City Camel Races held that same weekend. I find this odd and hilarious and it will be a must see event on the calendar next year.

Even better on a weekend in early October Virginia City holds the World Championship Outhouse races. Seriously, how could you not want to miss a derby like that???


I'll leave you with this:
Click Here to watch the trailer to the movie "Players" just released on DVD that was shot in Carson City! Who knew? There may have to be a movie night at my house for this one.

Oh, and this that I just noticed out my kitchen window. I have one of those beautiful trees on the side of the house that is putting on a show.

YUP!

It is strangely hazy around the mountain peaks today but that is indeed SNOW. Tuesday the mountains got snow, we got rain and a low ceiling of dark clouds. Ummm...it's only October right?

Everybody Do The Candy Dance

The first official weekend of fall is known for two things in Northern Nevada. I partook of one while everyone and their Harley headed to Reno for Street Vibrations, which is the other. I've yet to participate in Street Vibrations since I don't yet own a motorcycle though I have plans at some point to become a motorcycle ridin' gal. I did take my Motorcycle Safety course and passed so that's half of it there.

Many a motorcycle can be seen making their way to Genoa at the base of the Sierra's for the annual two day Candy Dance and Arts Fair. The motorcyclists are, no doubt, headed here.



The Genoa Thirst Parlor - established in 1863. It is a favorite spot for cyclists to stop for a refreshment. I often wonder if the cyclists know that they are headed into a beehive of a street faire going on all around the bar.

The Genoa Candy Dance was started in 1919 as a dance and supper to raise money for streetlights in the tiny town. Candy was passed out at the dance as a way to entice more participation. With the success of the event it continued on paying for a years worth of electricity each successive year. It has evolved into a two day street fair featuring arts and crafts, food, a dance and supper, along with the sale of some of the best sugary concoctions including Pecan Turtles, Chocolate Haystacks, Fudge, Divinity, Almond Bark....these are just a few of the favorites. This year I purchased the fudge and divinity. The divinity was the most delicious I have tasted since christmas at my Grandmother's many, many years ago. Excellent fudge, too. There is also a woman who makes English Toffee to swoon over. I had some of that too.


The purchasing of candy happens here. At the Town Hall building.

After a morning of sauntering around looking at peoples wares and sneaking bites of english toffee, my sister and I picked up a Navajo Taco and sat for a bit of lunch. A Navajo Taco is new to me but it was simple and delicious. Fry bread topped with chili beans, lettuce, tomato, cheese, onions. The bread was awesome and it was quite filling.



We sat in the shade of this beautiful tree and had lunch.

With the mountains to gaze at. Very beautiful and serene.

A nice way to spend an official fall afternoon. And sugary treats to take home!

Fall Upon Us

What have I been doing? Where have I been? Good question...where should I start. I am recovering from the effects of a rather unpleasant sinus infection that required antibiotics and made working in a face mask that much more pleasant. Though the antibiotics have done their job I am still feeling sluggish and not 100% and come home in the evenings and pretty much climb in bed by 9 PM which means the TiVo is running overtime while all the new and returning shows I am trying to watch go by the wayside in favor or more sleep. Add on, the not necessarily stressful but stressful just the same, starting work in a new office and getting acquainted and organized and now juggling two offices part-time and the fact that the office space in the new house looks like a tornado hit it while I attempt to wrestle it into some sort of less chaotic order meanwhile, obcessing over the boxes of just junk that needs to be shredded that are waiting for attention in the garage. HMM, that about covers the minutae of it all.

There were family visits in the last few weeks, a day at the Genoa Candy Dance which I will explain along with pictures of Genoa but I wouldn't want to present this all to you until I've got my research and history correct cuz that would just be wrong. Still candy has been known to make me dance so it's a good visual there I think. Swaying to the music of a well made piece of fudge...it could happen.

All that plus beautiful fall foliage, we get some amazing color here, the first rain of the season, a dusting of snow on the Heavenly Valley peaks today, temperatures dropping, heaters revving up and the weekend figuring out how to shut down and drain the swamp cooler.

I'll be back with photos.

Found

My backyard has just acknowledged the official start of autumn coming up this weekend. My trees are so smart!

Vast Variety of Virgos

Now that the Virgo birthdays in my family have come to an end we can all catch our breath and plan for the normal spacings of birthdays. August/September in my family is a whirlwind of Virgos, more Virgos per square inch than any other group.


This is Virgo MMniece with her two kiddles, the littlest of which is also a Virgo.

These gorgeous identical twins are the Virgo daughters of MMnephew. They just turned 3!

Here's Virgo MMnephew with one of his Virgo daughters

Here's Virgo MMsister with the littlest Virgo. The littlest Virgo just turned 1!

Here's Virgo MMbrother-in-law with the littlest Virgo.



Now the great part of all these virgos is the sheer number of MMfamilial gatherings, this year topped off by the suprise party for MMbrother-in-law, who suspected nothing, though I believe he was seriously contemplating divorce by the time MMsister got him to the party. MMfamily, not really well schooled in the fine art of lying, had a wild time keeping the stories straight and piling lies and excuses one on top of the other. MMherself had to figure out how to sneak down to the Bay Area without MMbro-in-law knowing which wasn't easy considering they live 4 blocks from me. Whee, I can safely say MM and family are full of cake and kids and parties and everyone can settle down for a bit.

September 11th

Cruisin'

Last Wednesday I worked my last day at the South Lake Tahoe office I have been temping in since July. (Did I ever think to take my camera....umm...no)

Some things I will miss:

Watching the sun creep up over the mountains in Carson City as I drive along the ridge of my neighborhood out to the highway.
The “bear crossing” signs along the top of Spooner Summit...these make me smile for no reason
The glimpse of Spooner Lake as I head down the Summit into Tahoe. Awesomely serene.
The first breathtaking view of Lake Tahoe as you round the corner of Highway 50. Big and Blue.
Cave Rock...it’s the coolest thing. You drive through it.
The sweet, clean morning air filtering through evergreens as I drive through Zephyr Cove.
The glimpse of mountain cabins and houses along the way into South Lake.
The open meadow that leads the eye to the view of the high rise casinos that are South Lake Tahoe...looks like a miniature city plopped down in the mountains.
The sign for Heavenly Valley ski resort that just says “Heavenly” which is a fairly accurate description.
The meandering ease of Pioneer Trail, which is a welcome backroad, rather than the drive through all of South Lake.
A wonderful ranch just before Al Tahoe Blvd, where I turn, where there is a large white barn and a huge meadow where you will see white horses grazing. The first time I noticed this, in the early morning hours, struck me as a dream or the setting for a fairy tale.
A one hour commute with maybe 5 stop lights and time for a full CD to play.
This view from my work space:



I won’t miss getting up at the crack of dawn to travel there. I won’t miss the increasing congestion of traffic as the summer wore on. I most certainly won’t miss all three huge road construction projects that gave off a badly designed video game vibe. I won’t miss the sticker shock at the pump.

Not that I won’t travel to South Lake many times more...it’s just that the likelyhood of doing it at 6:30 in the morning is pretty slim. For being such a cranky pants morning person I am suprised at how much I looked forward to this early morning ride. Beautiful. It’s why I live here.

I was rewarded with an easy office to work in and an office staff that was helpful, appreciative, and nice. They gave me this as a parting gift. Sweet, huh?

By Summer's End?

MMspouse asked me a few days ago "So, when does the snow melt completely?"
Um....maybe September???


Highway 89, August 25, 2006...Still a bit of snow up there.

MMMMM....Breakfast!

These delicious looking goodies were waiting for me when I got home this evening. Good friends W&D sent cookies to celebrate the new house. YUM, throw on some decafe and it's a party!!

Halfway

Today is the half way point of my week. I am working more than usual this week and last week. Throw in a very fun and busy visit from MMmom and MMniece and assorted tots and you have a reasonably happy yet overly tired Moxie. I am determined not to let this period of intense work get to me and I will stoically keep the whining to a minimum since it is so rare I overwork myself.

Since I am halfway or somewhat settled into the new house I have actually found some time to read. Ahh, books - I have been so distracted in the past few months that nothing got read and my stacks were keening and calling me but to no avail. I had to jump back in with a fitting summer beach read "Motion to Suppress" by Perri O'Shaughnessy. P. O'S. being a pen name for two sisters who write mysteries revolving around lawyer Nina Riley. The cool part of this series of books is that they are set in Lake Tahoe...yup, that big blue lake right over the hill from me. I actually drive by the building they use as the setting for Nina Riley's office when I work in South Lake Tahoe. I wouldn't know anything about this if my buds W&D hadn't given me one of the books right after I moved to this area. I have also tackled Joan Didion's "The Year of Magical Thinking." I've never been much of a Didion fan but I do like John Gregory Dunne's writings and have a signed copy of "Monster in a Box" from a reading he did in San Francisco. I wasn't sure I wanted to read a memoir of Mr. Dunne's demise....however, it did capture my attention, it is wonderfully written without being maudlin, with a lot of quirky descriptions of the way grief has it's way with you. It's a beautiful tribute and a lovely insight into their relationship. I've just started Augusten Burrough's "Dry", my niece has the companion "Running with Scissors" so there is to be a trade off down the road if she ever finds time to read again.

With that I'm off to watch a rerun of "House". Love that Hugh Laurie, can't wait for the new season.

Entomology 101

Latest visitor to my house. He appeared to have fallen off the roof. There was much discussion as to why he was on the roof. He was determined to climb up the screen. First we relocated him to the grasslands of the backyard. Next thing ya know, he's back at the screen. Figured he would like to be back on the roof, so after watching his progress up the screen halt at the top he was corraled into a big bowl and released back to the roof. He scampered away at a rapid rate. I think he must live in the oak tree on the opposite side of the roof from whence he came.

RIP

A brief moment of silence as I mourn the end of my chuckle a day. Thanks to punk rock knitter and knitty kitty at You Knit What? for witticisms and jaw dropping fugness in the knitting world.

Suprised

My co-workers threw me a house-warming lunch today at work. It was such a nice suprise. There was lunch with deli sliced meat and cheese, amazing wheat rolls, an awesome fruit salad, and potato salad as well. Then we capped it off with a chocolate cream pie.....tipped over with glee I was. Then there were presents. I couldn't believe it! How sweet and thoughtful was that? What a great gang I work with. They graced me with an amazingly soft chenille throw to cuddle up in. A beautiful silver candle holder and candle with a yummy sugar and floral scent, a spice rack with stuff I might actually use...there were jokes about the possibility of me cooking. A great welcome sign for my door. The topper though is a beautiful watercolor painting. This painting was at work one day. My co-worker L.'s mother is an artist. The painting was L.'s. She had brought it to work so her mother could pick it up for a show she wanted it included in. I just loved it. L. assured me that her mother would paint something for me in the future. Lo and behold, L. gave me the painting I loved so much. This photo doesn't do it justice, there's so much shading and delicate detail it is hard to believe it is watercolor. L.'s mom is truly gifted and I am proud to display such a beautiful piece in my new home.

Though we do have a penchant for luncheon's and party's and dessert at work, especially for birthdays and I joked that they did this because they needed a reason and my birthday is too far off, I'm truly touched that they would have a lunch for me and give me gifts for my new house. Sweet, Sweet day.

Welcome!

This is what you will see after you walk up to my door, lean over and admire the cherry tree on the side of the house, and then turn around. Those lovely mountain peaks. AAAHHHH!

As you can see I live on a hill which I like. The other good thing is that the driveway now has a southern exposure and that will come in very handy come snow season. At our rental we had a north facing driveway. It was rather disheartening to be out shoveling the driveway when all the houses with south facing driveways were clear thanks to the sun exposure. I anticipate less need to shovel the driveway this winter and that is a nice bonus.

There's a hint of excitement in the air. Rumor has it Trader Joe's is coming to Carson City. No one seems to know just where this store will be but there's also a rumor of a September opening. There are several new buildings going up in the Topsy Lane shopping area which is 2 stop lights from my house and 2 new buildings that are almost completed in the Target shopping center which is 1 stop light from my house.. There are several empty retail establishments in Carson City that may be likely candidates as well. Either way I will be a happy camper. Once again I will have a Trader Joe's close to my house.

Nevada elections are coming up and with it the vast quantities of campaign signage that goes with it. From one end of Carson City to the other and down to Minden and Gardnerville there are signs everywhere. I'm watching the Jack Carter (D) for Senate race closely and the race for governor. That one is a no brainer for me. I always vote pro-choice and Dina Titus (D) is pro-choice. It's that simple. As in California so shall it be in Nevada, I hope. I'm a woman, it's my body, etc. It's important for the younger generation of women to have choices, options, access to Planned Parenthood, education. None of these things are to be taken lightly. Many fought hard for a woman's right to choose and I'd like to see that right upheld.

As I wobble off my soapbox I'll remind you to vote for whom ever floats your boat.
Exercise your right to choose.

MINE

August 1st was the year anniversary of my move to Carson City. I celebrated the day by mailing my first mortgage payment on my new home. If only that thrill could maintain itself over the next thirty years. Ha! Still she's lovely even though it looks from the photo like I bought a door, a couple windows, and a garage. Most of the house is tucked back off the street which is nice for peace and quiet. There's no showing off the interior because it's not nearly in show off condition but there are fewer boxes to trip over and quite a few more were carted off to recycling last week. Phew, that was a relief...cardboard was making me dizzy. Thanks to the inexpensive home warranty we purchased we were able to get the refrigerator water feature repaired and up and running for very few dollars and get the swamp cooler (such a classy name)serviced so it runs at maximum efficiency which came in handy when temperatures hovered in the 100's for two weeks....

Last friday we installed a really quiet garage door opener and 3 ceiling fans. Okay, wait...MMspouse and I picked them out and then we paid people to come install them. It was a significant home improvement and I'm quite proud of increasing the value of my home so easily. The bonus was all the money came from a rebate after close of escrow for fees that had been estimated and turned out to be less. It was an awesome treat to go out and be able to shop for stuff, pay cash, and have money left to pay people to install it all.

I'm still pretty amazed that I was able to do this and that I did it in a year's time. Like MMmom always told me "You can do anything you put your mind to!" It's awfully nice for this lifelong apartment dweller to sit on the deck steps and run my feet through grass in my own backyard. It occured to me tonight that the refrigerator is mine....not a loaner....funny little things like that keep happening. I've got lots of ideas of things to do over the next couple months and years. Meanwhile, I'm gonna live here for awhile and settle in and see what really needs to be done next. Could be flowers. Could be paint. Got 30 years to decide.

Tech Trouble

Who knew that moving just four measly blocks would upset the whole apple cart that is my DSL line. Unbelievable! So, now we are on Cable internet and now I have to configure my laptop to a router so I can be wi-fi once more. Sheesh. Once that bit of tech torture is completed I will be up and running and pictures will come forth and all will be right in my world. Meanwhile, I am emptying boxes and organizing my new home and I just really can't believe this is taking so long but there you have it.

MMspouse actually uttered these words to me whilst we were out pricing ceiling fans and garden hoses...."well, if we are talking about decorating we need a theme!" I almost tipped over....then promptly told him I am not so much a theme person and when did he become a decorative kind of guy?

So, the month of July has passed in a blur of unpacking, troubleshooting our swamp cooler and our fridge, a two week heat wave, and yet more ridiculous bureaucratic red tape from the Nevada Dental Board.

Bring on August....July pretty much sucked!!!

Home on the Ridge

GOT THESE!



THESE TOO!



NOW THIS!

Real photos soon.

Earth, Wind, and Fire

photo courtesy of aroundcarson.com

This is what I couldn't take my eyes off of last night while I drove home from work. Dry lightning (another new thing to me) created a substantial brush fire in the Northeast of Carson City. It started Sunday and burned until it was contained today. With up to seven fires burning in Northwest Nevada resources were scarce, the sky was black with smoke and the fire went on for days. It was scary to watch a hillside burn from my ridge across town. I can't imagine what hell it would be to be living near the fire in North Carson City. I was driving behind a car today whose driver was casually flicking his cigarette ashes out the window and I seriously would have liked to kick his door in or pummel him on that outstretched arm. Folks, we've got record high temperatures, afternoon thunderclouds with dry lightning, and mountains ready to blaze up with just the slightest provacation....do you think you could use the ashtray in your car! GGRRR! The thunderclouds finally opened up today and let loose some rain.

My other preoccupation: closing escrow this week. Besides the paperidge, which I spoke of previously, it seems it is not possible to close a house without the inevitable last minute details that require digging through boxes of old tax returns, tracking down stray W-2's, running to an office store to fax documents, making far to many phone calls, and being glued to my cell phone. Consequently, I feel as if I am in a constant state of distraction, have an amazing compulsion to make lists and of course, forget said list and needed documents when I leave the house. Monday I jumped in my car for yet another errand and realized I had left my keys in the house and had locked myself out. Bravo! Luckily, I had the forsight to make and hide a spare house key...for which I promptly patted myself on the back.

Generally, I imagine myself to be handling this process fairly well, I have to laugh at myself when life smacks me and says...silly girl, you are sooo all over the place. I took my sister with me today for the final walk through. Good thing, I was just so busy gawking and admiring my soon to be new abode that I really would not have noticed any of the repairs and such we were there to inspect.

Finally, I must share a moment that makes me a proud aunt. One of the best conversations I had with my college niece when she was visiting: As we are driving up the highway from Minden to Carson City we are discussing books. My niece keeps a list of books and authors she wants to read (that really must be the auntie gene).We talk about her books and authors and generally get all geeky and bookish. I am thrilled that some of my favorites are on her list and that I can gush about this or that book while my niece nods and bobs her head in that way that only another bookish gal understands. I am just so thrilled that she loves books and that I can share that love.

AuRevoir Bob

I found Bob's mom. During one of Bob's visits I put a collar on him with a note taped to it asking if the owner of the cat we call Bob would call me. She called. She lives four houses up on the corner of our street. She was very grateful that we contacted her. Especially when we told her we were moving and if no one claimed Bob, Bob would be moving too...so strong has my attachement to Bob become. She seemed very suprised that Bob had taken up residence here part-time. She claimed that Bob came home every night. Ha, that Bob...catting around in my yard at all hours while Bob's mom thinks Bob is home safe in bed...Bob must be a teenager. She laughed that we named Bob since we obviously have no respect for gender. She calls Bob Monkey, having no respect for species. Still, I am grieving the loss of Bob's company. Bob was here for almost a week after we spoke to Bob's mom. Then suddenly Bob no longer appeared. No Bob for almost 10 days. I miss Bob. Bob was very attentive and liked to be scratched and would sit in my lap and just hang out. Bob was a very relaxing end to my work days. Bob was just a great, sweet cat and I will miss that sweet face.

Stacks

I was warned. Though many things go into buying a home it appears the paperidge, in vast quantities, is the thing people remember most. Large manila envelopes full of stacks of paper have arrived at my house. Yikes! It doesn't help that I am still toting what feels like cotton balls around in my head making it difficult to absorb any information of the printed variety. Then again perhaps the denial is wearing off and the shock has set in. I'm buying a house. WTF! It appears my mind will be sifting through various stages of thought and emotion over the next two weeks. I'm feeling roller-coaster-ish. A good aspect of it all is that half of my stuff has been in boxes for over a year. Imagine my suprise, when I actually get to unpack them, at all the forgotten treasures stored therein. Whee, it'll be like christmas!

Meanwhile, I should be packing BUT my angel from Flagstaff (aka College Niece) is visiting so there's much to do with her. We are going out to Virginia City today. I have yet to visit this old mining town. We've gone to lunch and a movie earlier this week and browsed used books in town. So that's the plan, even though my mind wants to toy mercilessly with odd words and phrases from these stacks of paper I am off to have a little fun and roam old time Nevada.

Down for the Count

AAAGGGHHHHH! I'm sick. I stayed home today. I had chicken noodle soup and vast quantities of kleenex. I am chugging orange juice. I think today is the worst of it and tomorrow I will feel better. Lesson learned: as soon as you utter the words "I never get sick" you will and it will happen when there is too much going on. I have learned to roll with the whole succumb to it, loll in it...because I do know that is what my body wants and needs. Loafing in bed and watching crappy television...just because.

New Vocabulary

Lots of new words today. ESCROW! Mortgage...contract...pest inspection. Yup, I'm in escrow! First day in fact. All I know is I am sitting and staring at my rental house and wondering what the hell I should do. I actually don't believe this is happening or I am in major denial that I am 45 days away from moving into a house that will be mine. Of course, we all know the slight shiver and dread of moving and here I am...doing it again!!! Jeezus, I am crazy! Plus, first house buying adventure = I really don't know what the hell happens here. Luckily, my realtor and my lender seem to be bonding over my new escrow status and I am feeling like I don't have to worry much. I can console myself with the fact that the move itself should be fairly easy. Four blocks from my current residence...I'm thinking, if I am lucky I can round up all my co-workers and all their SUV/trucks and just have them shuttle back and forth while I load and unload...of course, I'm not sure they would volunteer their services but I'm not shy...I'll ask....I'll weeddle...I'll cajole...or I'll rent a truck for a day and shuttle it back and forth.

Needless to say there's a bit of excitement afoot. A lovely little house, a bit smaller than my rental, nicely painted, new tile, high ceilings, small (read: manageable) back yard with deck, view of my beloved mountains, appliances included. Phew, I'm getting choked up here...so let the list making begin while I mull over the pressing question of "What about Bob?"

Step On In

Have I got your attention now?
Finally, today I got my first look at the new Dillard's store in the new mall that opened in May, the Sierra Summit. My friend K. and I decided to meet in the shoe department at Dillard's because we both had heard from various other women that the shoe department is a sight to behold in an area severly lacking in BIG shoe departments. We entered the store and this long expanse of shoes lined the entire right side of the store, it extended out to what appeared to be the horizon. In typical girl fashion we both let out a huge "aahhh" and proceeded to browse for upwards of an hour. Stocked to the rafters with cute shoes, reasonably priced shoes, some expensive salon shoes, a few really ugly shoes, and a ridiculous 40 something woman taking pictures. And this that you see is only about a third of the department. I was shoe-phoric. I did, alas, settle for living vicariously through my friend as she bought several pairs. The trip itself was designed to distract me from obcessing over what I hope will be fabulous, big news but I'm not ready to disclose it until said news is confirmed and positive and oh, I can't talk about it....it was a great distraction.
Though the mall is severly lacking in eating establishments at this point, there are several restaurants that should be moving in soon. It is not pedestrian friendly. My idea would be to build a huge parking garage somewhere behind the mall where you can go park your car and grab a golf cart to cruise around the place, or a scooter, maybe a tram like at disneyland....Still, if you just want to pop into Williams Sonoma you just pull up right in front of the store. I'm curious if this actually works on a weekend during prime shopping hours and I'm not sure it will be easy at all when the snow falls...and yes, I am that easily distracted by a room full of shoes, though my mind keep trying to figure out "If the big news happens will I be able to come back anytime soon and actually buy a couple pair?"

Twentysomething

This lovely, slightly windswept visage is the reason I went to see this guy last night.

Had she been here her two aunties would have taken her with them. Alas, she is in Flagstaff preparing for or recovering from a fabulous cocktail party to usher in her 20th year. My niece has amazing and impeccable musical taste and for that I am grateful since I am at a point in my life where "keeping up" is not always on my list of things to do. She played Jamie Cullum's CD for me two years ago while visiting for the holidays. She raved about his talent and his song writing abilities. She was spot on. I am so glad I got to see him perform live and I was enamoured with his music, his stage presence, and his impish CUTENESS.

For the birthday girl, you are loved and cherished. And thanks for keeping the aunties up to date.
But I'm still having fun and I guess that's the key
I'm a twentysomething and I'll keep being me
THESE ARE THE DAYS
-jamie cullum-

Lucky Girl

I want to thank you for so many gifts
You gave me love and tenderness
I want to thank you
I want to thank you for your generosity,
The love, and the honesty that you gave to me
I want to thank you, show my gratitude,
My love and my respect for you
I want to thank you
-Natalie Merchant-


At a certain age I realized how lucky I was. At a certain time in my life I had a gaggle of women friends who, along with myself, were recovering from various substances and abuses. A group of open, honest, raw, and revealing women who did not shy away from talking about the tough stuff, the uncomfortable stuff, unimaginable stuff. Willing to open up and discard all the built up baggage that they had been dragging around and find a spiritual talisman to carry them forward through life in a different way. During this time it became apparent to me that I have a wonderful mother and so many of the women I met did not. Shocked and saddened for others, I was filled with gratitude. For so much of my own journey she is my rock, my touchstone, my best friend. Intelligent, funny, difficult to shock, filled with encouragement, trusting my decisions (clenching her teeth over the bad ones), teaching by example, the best role model for independence - mental, spiritual, financial. Put me through college at great expense and sacrifice on her part. Spoiled me rotten in the process and always, always encouraging me, cheering me on, sharing chocolate and insight. In those early days of recovery she did not shy away from the tough stuff, the questions, and she shared more history with me than I had ever imagined she would. It’s obvious to all who know me that I am blessed by her presence and support. Even better there’s not a close friend in my life who doesn’t inquire about her well being during the course of any conversation. She’s the one everyone wants to call mom and she’s mine. Lucky girl, me. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom, you are the best.

Flowers for Mom

Flowering Pampas grass???

There wasn't alot of talk about it. In fact, it got strangely quiet as the day got closer. D and I chuckled about the silence. It must be a genetic thing that the women in my family start ignoring an approaching birthday. Still, of course, we all remembered. When I heard from her today she told me that those geographically close to her remembered too and suprised her with goodies and presents and this makes me happy that she had a lovely day. I serenaded her answering maching first thing this morning with a froggy voiced-just woke up rendition of happy birthday. And here I post flowers for her to see that are blooming in my backyard. She's the gardener, green thumb in our family so when there's a question there are phone calls and e-mails until I know what the heck to do. Imagine my suprise as I got older that the old sayings "listen to your mother" "mom's always right" are actually true in my case. My mom knows an awful lot and I benefit from it daily.

Happy Birthday, Mom! You totally rock! I love you.

Lovely

This is the latest bit of color to bloom in my backyard. I have no idea what it is but it is lovely and beautiful and has a faint scent similar to jasmine. I had no idea that pampas grass, of which I have three large clumps, blooms little yellow flowers. They are just starting to bud. I've got two trees that are blooming flowers and the wind whisks the tiny blooms all over the yard, pink and magenta dots along the ground cover. It's strangely pretty. Watching the yard come to life this spring is really fun and it changes everyday. Not so fun is the ongoing weeding and the dang dandilions but I am making progress even though I lose interest after about an hour. It's alot like cleaning house, once it's done you can sit back and enjoy and admire your work, the process...ugh...

My current residence is a rental. That makes becoming so fond of my backyard a challenge because it may not be mine for long but I am bound by my lease to care for it, which I would do anyway because it is so lovely...there's a good chance that once I am settled in a home of my own I will try to replicate what I see here because I am delighted by it. I met with my mortgage broker last week and updated all my information with new bank stuff and new work stuff and he is crunching numbers to get me pre-approved, yet again, so that I can start my house hunting. Oy, it is so weird sitting there with him. My stomach tightens and all sorts of strange thoughts pass through my head....mostly just a loop of "oh, is it enough? It has to be enough. Do I qualify to buy a nice house or a shack??" Stuff like that. Doesn't matter that I've done this before with him and know pretty much what the numbers will be, the whole house thing just seems to create a smidgin of doubt, a rolling of the stomach. Then once the house hunting begins...you know there's those nights when you are weighing options, trying to decide, tossing out what you don't want, trying to find what you do want, putting in bids....EECCKK, I sleep badly as it is. I don't cheer to the thought of the process. Who knew I'd be so enamoured with skylights in the living room or a gas stove or a built in microwave. Honestly, I just want to buy my rental. How great would that be?

Dentalship Down

I am always grateful to the employment gods for finding me work. Despite the Nevada Dental Board's best efforts to keep me from working in Nevada I have been lucky to secure work here in the early part of this year. Two offices, like a tale of two cities...one ideal, perfect fit for me, full of veteran dental folks who've seen most of it over the years and have a calm and focused attitude toward the work and realize that humor will get you through the day better than anything. The other nothing like my Minden Oasis. Beautiful office, brand new...appears they thought of everything when designing it. Ambidextrous equipment, spacious, light and airy, comfortable, computers in every room, digital x-rays...the whole 21st century upgrade. The Chief is likable and shares my philosophy. I am lulled into a state of low grade excitement to work in such a lovely atmosphere. AND THEN I got my first eye full of the Chief's headmistress, Queen Dripslobber we'll call her. I knew right then I was not long for this job. Bossy, loud, very quick to point out any and all mistakes as you try to make your way through the day under the feigned pretext that she is doing you a favor correcting you before you do something dumb yet again. Indeed, there is a learning curve when entering any new work situation...I am, however, a fairly bright, seasoned veteran of the dental culture. I can usually figure things out if given time and a few pointers. Queenie, though, she's more likely to catch you off guard, swope in and correct any mistakes before you even know what hit you. She wants it done her way and rather than explain, which would be helpful, she is more likely to just do it and leave you puzzled still. Then she wonders why you ignore her or approach her helpfulness with distain. As I sighed for the hundredth time at the end of the day while she pointed out what I had forgotten to do before leaving and dragging me back to my cubicle to point it out, her comment "Oh, no sighing...it's just tweaking." No, it's petty oneupmanship AND it's only so you won't have to do that particular bit of your job tomorrow. One of the things I realized after 6 weeks of watching this tazmanian devil spin out in the hallways of the office was that most of what she required in the way of my job details were areas in which it made her job that much easier. Sly fox she. However, in my quest to stay on schedule and have a smooth day at a new venue I was constantly hung up for precious minutes on the minutae of how she needs things to be done. So with the alarm in my guy flashing red I gave the Chief my resignation. He was curiuos as to why and I played diplomatic and said the office just wasn't a good fit for me. I know he wanted more but with little knowledge but pretty good intuition about small town business goings on, I figured leave on the best terms possible, word gets around. I am free of one office that could not provide the slightest possibility of a fun day at work...oh, and did I mention a complete lack of humor....agh...who needs that! I have needs people and one of them is a good chuckle and authentic smiles.

Meanwhile, my Minden oasis continues to be a source of fun and a study in how a good fit is possible. There is no power tripping at this office. It's a group effort and cooperation is second nature. So far my timing was pretty lucky in that for the last three months we have had birthdays to celebrate and it is a big production including home made desserts, presents, lunch ordered in and the staff and doc sitting around together BS-ing. My induction into this office was so easy and seamless. We laugh, we mock, we keep the stress level to a minimum and we support each other. Lucky, I am telling you. I've worked alot of offices and have always been blessed with finding the ones that operate like this. It's such a gift. So I await the day that this office can give me another day and I can make it my home. Meanwhile, I think I will be temping for those days I lost with the office from a bad sitcom. That way if I find myself in that situation again I can just remind myself that it's temporary and I get to leave and move on when I am done.

Red Fish, Blue Fish

On the Nevada political scene:

The Nevada Democrats held a state convention in Las Vegas on April 22. According to the Reno-Gazette Journal, the Dem's hope to win back six statewide offices that were swept by Republicans in 2002.

Upon moving to Nevada you would have thought I would do my political homework. I was lulled into a sense of false security by the fact that the Senate Minority leader is Harry Reid, a democrat from Nevada. Alas, it appears I am living in a predominately red state. It is good to know the democrats are rallying in a state election year.

I attended a kick off rally in the capital a few months back for Jack Carter, who is running for State Senator and makes his home in Summerlin outside of Vegas.



He is the son of a humble peanut farmer named Jimmy.






It was a political rally so all the right things were said and there was some funny Bush bashing. More interesting was a group of approximately 500 democrats converging on the capital mall in our small town to support the democratic nominee. I was thrilled to see a large crowd on a weekday afternoon. It was cool to be in the presence of a former president as well. Jimmy and Rosalyn made the trip along with members of Jack's family. What was interesting to me as well was that the following day at Coretta Scott King's funeral our Jimmy outright snubbed the current president after he spoke by refusing to shake his hand as others had before him. Pretty ballsy and somewhat out of character for Jimmy Carter. I think he is cranky as all get out with the Bush administration. The democratic convention affirmed that they are banking on our dissatisfaction with the Bush administration. Hopefully, it will help rally the Dem's and inspire the voters. Blue is my favorite color.

Spring Glory

Spring Glory Forsynthia! Blooming in my backyard. Spring, Spring is here! When I left town for Easter weekend to visit my family there was nothing happening in the garden. Nada. Bupkus. I returned and this little bush had decided it had waited long enough. Viola. Lovely little yellow flowers. So far it's the only thing that has come out in its fully glory but with the rains this week there are buds on everything and it is suprising to me (the garden neophyte) how quickly that happens. That and how the weeds appear first, in abundance! Now should you think "well, how does she know what this flower is called if she knows nothing about gardening?" The previous owners were kind enough to leave the tag on it. I love them, who ever they are.



This is "Zeke in the Wilderness." My kitty was very anxious to stroll the backyard grounds on Saturday and sniff out all signs of Bob, that interloping cat that hangs around. Lucky for us there was no sign of Bob on saturday which meant the possibility of flying fur was at a minimum. Yes, that's a harness on my cat. He has been an indoor cat for all his 15 years and I take him out on a harness and retractable leash so he can wander about. He thinks he's a black labrador retriever anyway so he's perfectly happy on a leash...okay, not thrilled but he knows if he wants to go outside he has to stand still for the harness. It's working out very well. Zeke is a marvelous wonder cat with only slight psycho tendencies. He is very smart. He knows the commands sit, shake, and sit UP which he will do for you if there is a treat in your hand. I taught him this when he was 10. So, you can teach an old cat new tricks. He is a funny, steadfast companion to me. The least I could do is take him out into a whole new world.

Chocolate Bunnies

Happy Easter!!