A Sense of Humor is Essential

Drive by blogging is for those times when I don't feel qualified, inspired, have enough time, etc. to complete a full sentence, paragraph, post on a cohesive subject. (It is important that I post something so I can make the photo of the world's ugliest cake from my previous post go away, well at least to the bottom of the screen.)

So here are a few random thoughts in lieu of a real post-

- I don't like thinning seedlings in my garden. I know it's necessary and all that, but it feels a little like being the executioner, deciding which plant lives and which is sacrificed for the common good of the garden plot.

- Why do people who work at restaurants give you so many packets of condiments? I have never eaten Hot Mustard for a second time, but I have enough to open my own Chinese Restaurant. Same thing with the hot sauce. It's like they can't help themselves.

- From now on, I am just giving toilet plungers as housewarming gifts. Plungers are the best present on the planet for any homeowner. Forget the bottle of wine or flowers, a powerful plunger will be appreciated for years to come.

Please share any randomness that you would like and Thank you!

I made a double layer chocolate chip cookie cake for our son's 14th birthday party, but Unfortunately That is Not What is Pictured below. This picture is of a Brownie/Chocolate chip cookie cake made after the Top Layer of chocolate chip cookie was eaten by the Dog after it was decorated and sitting on the dining room table. Apparently Not Far Enough Away from the edge where the dog couldn't stand up and REACH IT and EAT IT!!!





(Rotten Dog!!! Bad Dog!! Dog for Sale!!! Good thing Dog is cute or Dog would be on the way to the glue factory. Grrr!)

Thank you to all who expressed an interest in how you make a chocolate chip cookie cake. To make a giant chocolate chip cookie, you make cookie dough for approximately 3 dozen cookies for each layer and bake it in a 13 inch aluminum pizza pan sprayed with cooking spray at 375 degrees for 20 minutes. Cool on a rack completely and then decorate as desired. For my brownie layer, I made a double batch of brownies and put them in a sprayed pizza pan and baked for 40 minutes. Let brownie cool in pan completely also. Keep cake far out of reach of four legged animals with poor self control.

As you can also see from the picture, I'm a baker, not a cake decorator. (Especially when I'm P.O.'ed and rushed.) Thank goodness the teenaged boys didn't seem to mind.

Here are some wildflowers from a recent hike to Welden Canyon in the mountains between the Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valleys.


The purple lupine is starting to flower.


This is yellow statice, very popular with butterflies.



I wish you all a wonderful weekend. We are hosting about a dozen teens tomorrow to celebrate our 14 y/o's birthday. I'm off to shop for the party and make a chocolate chip cookie cake as requested by the Birthday boy. Oh, yeah, then There is That Job Thing, sometimes it gets in the way of all the other stuff I have to do.

What are you up to this weekend? Thank you again, Best Always.

Dear Fellow Dog Owner:

Thank you so much for the privilege of having to navigate around your dog’s poop. I know you consider it a work of art and despite the plentiful “mutt mitt” stations and garbage cans Right Next to the Sidewalk, you are too busy reading the paper to bother with such trifle. I mean, after all, it’s biodegradable. But not until someone in my family steps in it.

Signed, Watchful Walker


Dear Lady in Women’s Restroom at Mall:

Thank you so much for educating me on proper cell phone etiquette. All this time I have made sure to finish up my telephone call or my “business”, not combine the two like you have done!! What a multitasker you are!! I am so impressed that you just go ahead and keep on chatting away all through the tinkle, the flush, the handwashing, The Whole Thing!! That’s a God Given talent it is. I know Mr.President or the Neurosurgery department or someone really important was waiting for all that vital information that you shared.

Signed, Still in Shock


Dear Sometime Scout Leader:

Thank you so much for helping us with our parenting techniques. You have opened my eyes to the efficacy of belittling and criticizing a child about Non Important things. I see it works so well with your children who have perfected Pouting to an Art Form. I appreciate that you think sarcasm is solely wasted on us grownups. We will be limiting our exposure to your toxic ways. And I’m not “Just Kidding” like you always say at the end of a biting remark.

Signed, Stay Away From Us


Dear Tightwad Mom:

Thank you so much for letting me know how wholly inappropriate and outlandish it is that my husband and I spend money as we see fit and can afford. I know I have so much extra dough lying around, but why in the world would I want to spend it on throwing a party for a kid’s birthday? I mean, a Bounce House and Burgers!! Who in the world do we think we are?

Signed, Spendthrifty


Dear Quiet But Not Too Bright Neighbors:

Thank you for showing me that regular care and feeding of my cat is completely unnecessary. Cats don’t need to be safe and warm in their homes. Running away from the coyotes and owls is good exercise and vermin is the latest “raw” diet craze for felines. Our garden makes a perfect litter box for your two now feral cats to relieve themselves. That is until I put down sprinkled hot sauce in the garden.

Signed, Sorry for the Cats

Thank you all so much for abiding and acknowledging the loss of my much loved and missed brother, Jim on the occasion of what would have been his 49th birthday.

Grief keeps its' own calendar, its' own clock. I am brought back to the acuteness of my loss through a date on the calendar, another missed milestone, a song, a scent.

Grief is like a wellspring and sometimes I will stumble upon it and sometimes I know just where it will be.

I choose to honor and remember, embrace fully of this life as if to take in the share of those I've loved and lost.

Late Fragment by Raymond Carver

And did you get what
you wanted from this life, even so?
I did.
And what did you want?
To call myself beloved, to feel myself
beloved on the earth.

Today would have been my brother Jim's 49th birthday. He has been dead for 25 years and I miss him still. He and we have all been denied so much.

I was talking with a friend of mine about growing up and she made the comment that as a big sister she looked after and "raised" her younger brother.

My brother, Jim looked after me too. He was a constant source of unconditional love in my life. He still is.

I miss him so much, I hope he knows how much he is loved and missed.

Until we meet again, Jimbo. Forever in my heart.

I need to call my parents today and let them know I love them. Maybe share some happy Jimmy stories too.

I wrote a letter to the Editor/Publisher of a community magazine in response to an article written about a local shopkeeper's near brush with death due to an aneurysm.

The writer of the article used the term, "male nurse" in describing how the local man learned of the seriousness of his condition.

Here is part of my letter-


Re: Well Suited Article, Elite Magazine, March 2009

Dear Publisher:

I would like to inform you, your editor, and the writer of the article, "Well Suited", that it is 2009 and both genders have been part of the Nursing profession for many years. I find the term, "male nurse" used in this article to be distracting, demeaning, and outdated. Do you use the term, "female physician" or "male physician" in your publications? Please extend to me and my professional Nursing colleagues the same courtesy.

Signed, Martha K., RN

I will let you know if I get a response. Some people need to be escorted and encouraged to come into the 21st century.

Good Morning and Welcome to Perfect Moments Monday hosted by Lori of Weebles Webblog. Perfect Moment Monday is an opportunity to reflect and share those moments that connect and sustain us.

I have a couple perfect moments to share at the blog water cooler this morning, they occurred last night while sharing a take out Chinese dinner with the family.

D., our oldest son told this joke while we were discussing well known composers and musicians-

"What happens when you switch Yo Yo Ma's name around?"

"It becomes Yo Ma Ma." (ah, 14 y/o humor)

Our youngest son then opened up his fortune cookie which read-

"Don't forget to say I Love You".

I go hiking in the local mountains with my cousin weekly and in addition to working our tushes on the "butt buster" hills, it's also a great therapy chat session.

My cousin, Sue started snowskiing about 5 years ago when she was 40 years old. Her family enjoys the fresh air, exercise, and the beautiful scenery of skiing. Sue (like a lot of skiers including me) struggles with fear while skiing. Fear of falling, fear of getting hurt, crashed into, falling off a cliff precipice, the list goes on and on. She talked about how she starts thinking of all these "What Ifs?" and it takes away her enjoyment of the sport. I said to her, "Why don't you turn it around? The likelihood of any of those things happening is slim to none, the overwhelming odds are that you will be safe and sound at the bottom of the hill ready to get on the lift for the next run." We talked about instead of visualizing wipeouts and crashes to use the power of her thoughts to picture her successful and happy doing what she loved. She is going to try it.

I use this technique whenever I catch myself wallowing in the negative and focusing on my fears instead of the much more likely outcome of success.

Is there anything that you do to help you switch the negative off in your thoughts? Thank you so much and sending you warm, happy thoughts as always.

PostScript: The boys and I wear helmets when we ski because all the good visualization in the world isn't going to protect our heads when we do wipeout.

Happy 14th Birthday to our oldest son. I am so proud of you, you are a compassionate, kind, and responsible young man. You are everything a parent ever dreams of and so much more. I anticipate wonderful things for you and we will be here for you always. Thank you for teaching so much about love and life and for the Gift of You!

This video always brings a smile, I hope you enjoy.

Howdy from this beautiful, gorgeous, warm, and sunny Wednesday in Los Angeles. The skies are crystalline blue and the mountains are green. A wonderful day to be alive and I am thankful for so many things even though it is a worrisome time to say the least.

I am not a worrier by nature, but I think I would have to be comatose not to be concerned with the tough times all around us. Three of my friends and neighbors are out of work with uncertain prospects. I'm concerned about my job of almost 8 years and the renewal of a contract on which it hinges. It's outside of my control and despite my hard work and stellar performance, there's nothing I can do which totally sucks. I really love what I do and do not relish the thought of finding a new job. My husband is encouraging and supportive so that eases a lot of the burden. I just have to wait and see and it's no fun feeling in limbo. I should know within the next month what's what with work. I would appreciate your prayers, good vibes, and thoughts, Thank you so much!!

Yesterday, I was feeling out of sorts over work and various other things including mountains of laundry to deal with, a garage and pantry that are in serious need of cleaning and organizing, and no time or mental energy to deal with it. I got a serious boost from my blog buddies, Weebles Webblog, Mrs.Spit, and A Very Open Book, when they thanked me for my support. That means so much and I thank them and all the bloggers who stop by or send an email. It's amazing how an acknowledgement and simple Thank you can really make your day.

I am reminded of the fragility of life as I learn about the ski accident and head injury of actress, Natasha Richardson. My heart and prayers goes out to her and her family, especially her two sons.

Well, off to get started on some chores and work for my boss who is on vacation this week. Lucky her, she is whale watching on the islands off the coast of Mexico. I am meeting some girlfriends for lunch this afternoon to celebrate one friend's birthday. I also need to start planning our Spring Break vacation of a visit to San Francisco and Monterey. Thank you for stopping by and letting me vent.

I hope you have a Wonderful Wednesday and please let me know whatever you are up to too!

Some Guinness was spilled on the barroom floor when the pub was shut for the night.

Out of his hold crept a wee Irish mouse and stood in the pale moonlight.

He lapped up the frothy brew from the floor, then back on his haunches he sat.

And all night long you could hear him roar, "Bring on the G*ddam cat!"

Shamelessly indebted to Rick and M.E. for this wee bit of poetry on the day the snakes were driven out of our Eire.

The blogging sisters, Antibloggedy and The Rambler posted about life changing or What If events and asked bloggers to share their What If Stories. So, please buckle up, put down your drink (or pour yourself a fresh one), and listen up to a timeless tale of two girls' stupidity from twenty seven years ago.

It was my best friend, P's twenty-first birthday. She is six months older than me and wanted to celebrate at a bar she frequented near her boyfriend's house about thirty miles from the Nursing School we attended together. I drove as I was the one with the car. I also planned to drink as I had my easy to obtain fake ID.

It was a fun evening with the consumption of well over a dozen Whisky Sours apiece. Needless to say, we were both extremely drunk. My friend, P. can hold her liquor with a sober face and convinced me that she was more fit to drive us home. So, we headed back home on the freeways of Southern Ohio. We made a pit stop at a 24 hour gas station about halfway home. This is where it gets real interesting real quick. As my friend was going down the freeway ramp instead merging into the traffic lanes, she made a LEFT Turn going the Wrong Way on the freeway. Thankfully, there was no traffic. I was instantly sober and Screamed at P. to pull over. She refused despite my pointing to the back of the freeways signs and screaming, pleading all within the course of 7 seconds. Finally, I grabbed the wheel from the passenger side, took my foot and stomped on the brake with all my weight and brought the car to a stop along the freeway shoulder. My friend refused to take her hands off the wheel or get our of the driver's seat. Another driver stopped to see what was the matter and tried to convince her to move. I ended up punching my friend in the face, I had to pummel her with my fists and push her into the passenger seat. She curled up in a ball in the seat. I drove her to dormitory, dragged her up to the front door, rang the buzzer for her to be let in by the House mother and hauled ass outta there. I went home to my parent's home where I lived during school and passed out. P. called me the next morning to find out what happened as her "face hurt and was all swollen." She was shocked, dismayed, and thankful when I related the early morning events to her. She remembered nothing. I will never forget.

Here are some signs of Spring from my woefully neglected garden-


I love crocuses, they are a favorite of the Spring bulbs. They are surrounded by pre-bloom lavender and white agapanthus.


The daffodils and grape hyacinth get along very well in the front flower bed.


Cyclamen just thrive in this north facing location by the front door.


Here is my Worm and Grub farm aka my compost pile. I live in an ancient riverbed with alkaline, clay soil so the rich dirt from the compost pile makes our trees and flowers very happy. Plus, it keeps our household waste from clogging up the landfill, always a bonus.

Thank you to all who expressed an interest in my therapy, I mean my garden. I wish you a wonderful Spring and hope you can enjoy some Spring flowers and get your hands dirty soon.

There once was a blogger named Lori

Very deserving of honor and glory

She writes of Open Adoption you see

And how it can be

Much is learned from her family's story


This ode to Lori of Weebles Webblog is my entry in the 3rd Annual Limerick Chick Contest. Please check it out if you would like to enter or vote for your favorite! Thank you so much.

I'm feeling "blech" about what to blog about and see I am not alone in this feeling of "blockage" as my buddy, Antibloggedy is in the same boat.

So should I blog about my garden and how the crocuses, daffodils, and grape hyacinths have naturalized?
Do I write about teaching the younger son how to mow the lawn and the immense look of pride on his face while in command of a dangerous tool?
How about a cancer patient at work who expressed such appreciation for my efforts that it totally tugged at my heartstrings?
Or should I bellyache about being overwhelmed with things to do around the house?
Or fess up to my video game addictions on the I.touch including Yard Sale, Chocolate Shop, and BeJeweled?
Oooh, here's a good one, what about the wonderful E-shower held for KimboSue? It totally exceeded all my expectations and it was so great to hear my blog friends' voices and get to chat with them!
Or share a limerick I wrote when I was a wee lass of eight years old? Hmm, maybe I'll spare you that.

Please let me know how you stay inspired, Thank you!

Welcome to Perfect Moment Monday sponsored by Lori of Weebles Webblog.

My Perfect Moment (actually multiple moments) came about as the result of a second hand book, "Sign Spotting" published by Lonely Planet Press. My mother volunteers at her community library in their used book store. She is always on the lookout for good books for herself and the family and picked up this book. My mom and I especially enjoy funny or amusing street or business signs. I read this book and was in tears laughing at some of these signs including-

The street sign, "Caution Blind Drivers Backing Out"

The Restaurant, "La Guachashito"

The Fruit Stand, "Flesh Produce"

Here are a few photos for your enjoyment:



Psst, Can you keep a secret?



This must be a challenge to market Barf cleaning products.



It looks like 65 feet is the new definition of "Bottomless".

Thank you for visiting and sharing in these silly signs.

To jump into the mosh pit of mindfulness, please visit Lori of Weebles Webblog for more perfect moments.

Happy Friday and today's post brought to you and inspired by my blog buddy, KimboSue.

KimboSue expressed an interest in my current work as a Registered Nurse. I have been a nurse since 1982 and have worked in a variety of specialities including Surgery, Maternal/Child, Emergency Room, Home Care, and Pediatrics. I have worked in both large teaching medical centers and small community hospitals.

For the last 7 1/2 years I have had my dream job that I hope to keep forever. I work as a Telephonic Nurse Care Manager working with medically fragile children and their families all over the U.S. I call and talk with parents about helping them help their ill child. My work includes a lot of education of the parents about diseases like Diabetes and Asthma. I also coordinate and set up resources such as Physical Therapy or medical equipment. What I really do the most of at my job for the 3 days a week I work is Listen. It's very rewarding to help parents care for their children and help the child get back to the business of being a kid instead of dealing with Cancer or some other disease. My job is very clinically challenging and I really love the flexibility and autonomy of telecommuting. I consider myself very fortunate on so many levels for my job, especially the opportunity to help families and be able to care for my own family.

Thank you, KimboSue for your interest in my "Job Thing" and yes, I pinch myself daily.

I am looking forward to the "Conference Call"/Online Baby Shower for KimboSue tomorrow. Please email me if you would like the call in information for our "little get together" tomorrow, Saturday, March 7th at 9 am Pacific, 12 noon Eastern time. Please stop by and say hello or Howdy since KimboSue is in Texas. Also, I invite you to please leave some comment love on the KimboSue's Baby Shower blog if you would like. Thank you so much!

Last but Not Least and actually the most important thing in this post inspired by Kimbo is that She Does NOT Have Preeclampsia!!! Yeah!!! She and her baby, Peanut, (she doesn't know if she is having a boy or girl), are Doing GREAT!!!

Do the Worst First is a saying of businessman and author, Harvey McKay. It's from his great book, "How to Swim with the Sharks". This little motto helps me get on with my day instead of feeling like the Sword of Damocles is hanging over my head. Whether it's the crabby patient, disliked chore, or like today, organizing the documentation for our taxes, it feels good to cross off a dreaded item from the "To Do List". It amuses me that I am the one organizing our tax return for our accountant and in charge of the household accounts even though my husband is a CFO and much more adept at financial stuff than me. Alas, he has no time, so it falls to me and Thank Goodness for online banking and automatic bill payments.

Unfortunately, our oldest son has been sick these last few days. He is so sick of being sick, today he said he would rather be in school! He is finally getting better from the coughing and hacking. Poor kid.

I saw a double rainbow this afternoon when the rainstorms became a sunshower. Rainbows are captivating, they create a feeling of calm, wonder, and awe. I wish that for you today.

What's happening with you?

Thank you for joining me this Perfect Moment Monday sponsored by Lori of Weebles Wobblog!

The boys and I went to San Diego to visit my parents for the weekend. My mother can be quite the "Nudge" (Yiddish for nag) and is getting on in years. It takes some ergonomic engineering for her to get in and out of my minivan with her bionic knees. Everytime she is a passenger in my car and I mean EVERYTIME Without Fail, when she is about halfway situated in the seat with one foot in the the car and one on the ground, she always says, "Don't go anywhere."
Finally, yesterday I turned to her and said, "Mom, I have yet to drive off with anybody half in and half out of my car."
And we shared a laugh together.

It really is the little things.

Thank you and sending my best for a laugh with a loved one.

Another Perfect Moment of mine can be had at the All Thumbs Review blog. I am guest host today in a post about the organic and aromatherapy skin care line, Benedetta. Thank you to Lori and Chicklet for this privilege.