Friday Favorites: Between the Covers

This week I have read finished or started a few new books that I wanted to share. These were either ARCs (Advanced Readinf Copies), something I picked up from the lobrary or something I had at home and have been waiting to dig into.


Borrowed from work:
Hillary Jordan's When She Woke
From Goodreads:

I am red now. It was her first thought of the day, every day, surfacing after a few seconds of fogged, blessed ignorance and sweeping through her like a wave, breaking in her breast with a soundless roar. Hard on its heels came the second wave, crashing into the wreckage left by the first: he is gone.  

Hannah Payne’s life has been devoted to church and family. But after she’s convicted of murder, she awakens to a nightmarish new life. She finds herself lying on a table in a bare room, covered only by a paper gown, with cameras broadcasting her every move to millions at home, for whom observing new Chromes—criminals whose skin color has been genetically altered to match the class of their crime—is a sinister form of entertainment. Hannah is a Red for the crime of murder. The victim, says the State of Texas, was her unborn child, and Hannah is determined to protect the identity of the father, a public figure with whom she shared a fierce and forbidden love. 

A powerful reimagining of The Scarlet Letter, When She Woke is a timely fable about a stigmatized woman struggling to navigate an America of the not-too-distant future, where the line between church and state has been eradicated, and convicted felons are no longer imprisoned but chromed and released back into the population to survive as best they can. In seeking a path to safety in an alien and hostile world, Hannah unknowingly embarks on a journey of self-discovery that forces her to question the values she once held true and the righteousness of a country that politicizes faith and love

When She Woke touches on religion, race, gender and politics. The line between church and state is blurred in this not so distant future. After a "Great Scourge" that left women barren, a Second Great Depression and terrorist attacks that leave LA in rubble, the evangelicals have taken over politics and law enforcement. Without enough jail space for offenders, the guilty are instead "Chromed" - their skin is genetically altered to a new color to announce their crime. Hannah Payne is a new Chrome, convicted after the abortion of her child. Hannah is cast out of the life she has known as is forced to learn to depend on others for 


This book had me questioning what I thought about rights for criminals, what I thought about a woman's right to choose and religion. It was a quick read that will leave you gasping and unable to put it down.


ARC of Jennifer A. Nielsen The False Prince
From Goodreads:

THE FALSE PRINCE is the thrilling first book in a brand-new trilogy filled with danger and deceit and hidden identities that will have readers rushing breathlessly to the end.
In a discontent kingdom, civil war is brewing. To unify the divided people, Conner, a nobleman of the court, devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king's long-lost son and install him as a puppet prince. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner's motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword's point -- he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. But Sage's rivals have their own agendas as well.
As Sage moves from a rundown orphanage to Conner's sumptuous palace, layer upon layer of treachery and deceit unfold, until finally, a truth is revealed that, in the end, may very well prove more dangerous than all of the lies taken together.
An extraordinary adventure filled with danger and action, lies and deadly truths that will have readers clinging to the edge of their seats.

Whoa! What a thrilling read! Duplicity! Treasonous Acts! Lying, murder, plotting. This was such a good read! I love Nielsen's writing and this book was an excellent read. Earlier in the book there were elements of Sage's character that annoyed me to no end. I cannot STAND when characters know more than they should or act in ways that just don't make sense. All was explained and I found that I was angry that I have to wait for this book to come out and then the sequel!

This weekend I hope to finish Taft 2012 and Quiet, the Power of Introverts.
Have a good weekend friends and hope you can find some time to snuggle with a book.

-r

The ABCs of 2012

Usually at this time of year I come up with a list of things that I plan to do; resolutions declaring that this upcoming year is going to be the year that all is right, that I get "it" together, in order and the like. This year is no different except I am not making a public declaration. I am just going to do it and well, do it.

Reading back through my resolutions for 2010 I can honestly say that I accomplished quite a bit of them but I can also say they were not life changing epiphanies that made everything better. Some were easier than others and some...well...there STILL has not been the dinner party/game day/get together (hangs head in shame). My 101 in 1001 list feels like a better gauge to have me grow and leap out of my comfort zone however 30 something years of making resolutions makes me feel that I should at least attempt to create a list of things to shoot for in the new year.

Pinterest came to the rescue. My love of all things alphabets drew me to this pin and the suggestions offered seem to go along with my way of thinking.

Source: eat-clean-train-mean.tumblr.com via Allison on Pinterest

Enjoy and whether you make resolutions or not, have a safe and happy 2012.
-r

PYHO: Do You Kiss Your Mother With That Mouth? Oh. *YOU'RE* the Mother

You little B****! What the eff are you doing?
Shut the eff up! I said I'm going to eff you up. Sit your dumb a** down!


Yes. These are the words a mom yelled at her THREE and FOUR year old children when they fell out of the laundry carts after they had been playing with them.

Let me back up. I had to visit my favorite place this week: the laundromat. (Tongue firmly planted in cheek!)  As I circled level one of Hell (limbo...was waiting for the wash cycle to end...get it?) I was attempting to read my book but was unable to stay focused as I had had to make sure I wasn't in the path of two kids playing in the business. I do laundry at night cause its less crowded and I usually don't have to worry about bootleg DVD man or bored kids. During this late late night visit I peeped a young family with young kids.

I'm not judging; there were times The Bee would be hanging with me, head lolling, eyes red, as it would be way past time for her to go to bed. Sometimes you do what you've gotta do and at times the gotta do involved taking a footie pajama clad kid out with me.  So when I saw the kids I just sat away from them because they had made the place their own play field. They ran around, carelessly bumping into other customers. They shrieked as only kids can and they decided the laundry carts were there just for them and went to town. The children were running around with those carts crashing them into each other despite several signs that request otherwise. The children were pushing each other in the carts, again ignoring the multiple signs around the place.  So when the little girl fell out of the cart and the manager of the place went to to see if she were OK the Mom did what anyone in that situation would: she yelled at the kids. No. She cussed at those kids like they stole something and murdered the president. Cusses that I have only heard directed at other adults.

Whoa.

The kids then went on their normal activity and after I argued with myself to do SOMETHING (What?) I am ashamed to say that I did nothing. I didn't know what to do and still don't. Listening to their conversation I realized that this was the way this woman talked. As the kids clamored for a snack from the vending machine, Mom told them to settle the Hell down and pick something from the damn 50 cents row. In fact, even without anger she spoke to these children as if cussing was just a word and not inappropriate.

I curse around The Bee. I have a favorite cuss that I use when I drive that illicit groans or giggles but I will admit that I thought myself as lofty since I don't cuss AT her. I guess its all bad. Cussing around her is just as bad as cussing at her. The words are harsh, hard and destructive. And it sounds as low class and low brow as I think.

As I listened to the mom and dad continue to swear and curse up a storm a few things came to mind. My swear jar needs to be dusted off. I can't be a role model cussing and carrying on. I can't hope that I am an example if I am the thing I don't want her to become. I also didn't step in, I'm ashamed to say. Yes, they were children and there is really no but. I just listened and didn't do a thing. At work I would have stepped in, made a joke and asked Mom if I could distract the kids. As random citizen...what's my role. I don't know how I will react in the future and welcome suggestions.

What say you blogosphere?
I need your help.

This post is a part of Shell Things Pour Your Heart Out Wednesdays
The rules:
Here are the Rules:


Write a post from the heart.

Something that has been weighing on you.

Something you feel passionately about.

Something you've been wanting to talk about.

A cause, a memory, a belief, a world view.

Anything.

We Bought a Zoo

The Bee and I were delighted to see a sneak preview for the new film, We Bought a Zoo. A description from the Facebook page for the movie:


This holiday season, acclaimed filmmaker Cameron Crowe (Jerry Maguire, Almost Famous) directs an amazing and true story about a single dad who decides his family needs a fresh start, so he and his two children move to the most unlikely of places: a zoo. With the help of an eclectic staff, and with many misadventures along the way, the family works to return the dilapidated zoo to its former wonder and glory.


This movie was based on the book We Bought a Zoo: The Amazing True Story of a Young Family, a Broken Down Zoo, and the 200 Wild Animals that Changed Their Lives Forever by Benjamin Mee. It was such an inspiring tale of , We Bought a Zoo was inspiring. It was about the healing of a broken family, finding courage to try a something different and the courage to love.


This movie is definitely for an older crowd. When we attended the screening (and looking at commercials) this movie appears to be about cute zoo animals but it really is a journey in which Matt Damon's Benjamin Mee learns how to interact with his family again. Learns about himself and move on after the death of his wife. 


I found myself very emotional during the scenes with Damon and his son Dylan played by Colin Ford. As a parent to a tween, having experienced out own change in family dynamics, I find it difficult to know if I am doing the best for her at times. Watching it play out on the big screen was quite touching. 


There is a predictable feel good ending but so what? In a time when people are feeling low and the economy is looking grim I enjoyed this movie about following your heart and dreams and having the courage to do what you feel is right.


I'd say buy a ticket and enjoy!
-r

The official trailer

r's note: In the spirit of disclosure: The Bee and I were given free tickets to an advanced screening by Allied Marketing. We received no compensation for this post; all opinions are my own.

Friday Favorites from the Web

This week I have not had much a social media presence. My home computer is down, I've been crazy busy at work and trying to blog from my phone quite frankly sucks. Instead of sharing ALL of the random crap that's been going through my head, here are some of the things that I have been reading this week.

Mister Mann Frisbee (yes, that is his real name) shares his tale of being labeled a Deadbeat Dad. This is a must read for ANYONE with children especially if you have a partner who is on your last nerve but may be doing the best they can.

I should have been reading this article from Jessica at Found the Marbles all week long. I have been stressing myself to much over the holidays! Here she offers DOABLE tips and ideas to de-stress. Woosah!

Today, December 23rd, is Festivus. I first heard about Festivus from Seinfeld and get a giggle each time the episode airs. Here is a bit more about the history from Time and the Festivus site.

When I was cooking up names for The Bee I felt that I was making a major decision that would color EVERYTHING about her for life. Apparently not everyone takes the task of naming a child so seriously! According to Madame Noire there are some Poor Children with creative names.

I also love the 15 Things Black Girls Do on Facebook. I am so guilty of a few of these but will not share in an effort to not be telling all of my business (says the blogger!).

Have you heard of The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl? Issa Rae is hilarious as J who is black and well awkward. Watch her J and sympathize with her as she conquers coworkers, mean girls and dating. Have I mentioned how utterly hilarious and funny this show is? I'm partial to episode 7 called The Date when J goes out with "White J". The who Spoken Word segment. Genius!

I have been trying to get hooking but haven't really felt up to it. I did whip up the Head Hugger hat for Dill who was actually disappointed! Ingrate! I totally missed and dropped the ball for gifts for The Bee's teacher this year. I'm going to spend the holiday getting acquainted with some yarn and create a few of my favorites: Nangellini's Phlight of Fancy scarf, the Mesh scarf and the Shelly scarf.

Happy Holidays and happy Fridays.
What are your favorites from the week?
-r

Between the Covers: Room

From Goodreads:

To five-year-old-Jack, Room is the world. . . . It's where he was born, it's where he and his Ma eat and sleep and play and learn. At night, his Ma shuts him safely in the wardrobe, where he is meant to be asleep when Old Nick visits.Room is home to Jack, but to Ma it's the prison where she has been held for seven years. Through her fierce love for her son, she has created a life for him in this eleven-by-eleven-foot space. But with Jack's curiosity building alongside her own desperation, she knows that Room cannot contain either much longer.Room is a tale at once shocking, riveting, exhilarating--a story of unconquerable love in harrowing circumstances, and of the diamond-hard bond between a mother and her child.

Emma Donoghue is a brilliant writer. Although Room is told from five year old Jack's point of view I never felt that I was reading as book where I was being talked down to or knew more than a five year old should. I listened to this book and was hooked. The narrators were fantastic, each voice capturing the mood and tone of the story.

This book is not graphic but it is disturbing and I found that I only listened to it when The Bee was otherwise occupied. It is very haunting and left me breathless as I imagined how this mother's love protected her son from the ugliness that was her world.

Check out Room and other Donoghue books (particularly Slammerkin) from the library (natch) or your favorite book sellers.

-r

PYHO: A Christmas-ish Type of Post

My grandfather died on Christmas Day when my mom was fourteen, my uncle twelve and my aunt ten.  I never understood or appreciated the magnitude of this event until a few years ago.  While I was growing up my family would talk briefly about their dad, my grandfather, but to me he was a name, a mere distant relative and I was unable to wrap my head around him. For them - Mom, Grandma, Charleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeene and Marvo Marvo instead of acknowledging such an event, instead Christmas was always a big deal in out house, shopping and gifts and spending and the whole thing was quite overwhelming. As children Buffy and I benefited from the excess and for years there was talk of "that Christmas" when the presents literally spanned the front porch through the kitchen.

Each year it was more of  the same,  presents stuffed everywhere, boxes and wrapping paper littering the house, who bought what, and just everything being so extra. As an adult I rebelled against the large, excessive Christmas. The idea of shopping until my wallet was busted, someone complaining about a gift (I won't name names but YOU know who you are) and the stress of not appearing grateful enough bothered me. What do you buy for the people that seemed to have everything? How did you buy when there were other things to shop for? The family would come together and make plans for a less excessive holiday but inevitably someone would break the rules and let it slip and so everyone, me, would be sent scrambling trying to purchase a last minute, yet meaningful somethings that were priced enough to show that you care. When I still worked at the hospital gig I would choose to work every holiday to avoid the inevitable drama that would accompany our family's get togethers.

This year I decided to actually talk to my mom and aunt about their dad, my granddad and get their perspective. Since this holiday is going to be kid less, I thought I would spend the morning sleeping in or...sleeping in. My mom had other plans and seemed disappointed that I was treating the day as just another regular ole day off. When I spoke with her about the holidays, actually sat down and tried to find out how she felt, I was very surprised by what she said.

My grandfather was diagnosed with cancer, something that he kept away from the younger children. On Christmas morning the family had just finished breakfast and the kids were about to open presents when they heard him fall. My aunt said she was afraid; she didn't realize that he was sick and thought he had perhaps hit his head on a chair. Luckily their neighbor was a nurse and she rushed in to help them out. My grandfather was taken to the hospital and my aunt and uncle were left with my mom as care giver. As they waited to hear word of what was happening with him that Christmas Day so long ago, Mom remembers worrying, crying and being told that everything would be OK. When finally allowed to go the the hospital they were told that he died and both have said the holiday was never the same.

The next year things were just as bleak. My grandmother had a heart attack and had to spend Thanksgiving  Day in the hospital. Holidays were a sad, depressing affair until my sister and I were born. Finally! A reason to celebrate again. But like most people given too much I resented all of the attention and extravagance and decided that I would not "do holidays like that". In retrospect I really wish I had taken the time to learn more about the story before now. As it stands I feel bothered by the holidays, unable to appreciate that this is more than a time of buy and spend but a time to reflect with family.

Since The Bee won't be home I will still sleep in but instead of an emo affair* that will inevitably include a Law and Order marathon I will spend some time with my family and enjoy their company as they open gifts, eat and celebrate the day. I can always catch Lenny another time.

Prepping for a holly, jolly Christmas.
-r


This post is a part of Shell Things Pour Your Heart Out Wednesdays
The rules:


Write a post from the heart.

Something that has been weighing on you.

Something you feel passionately about.

Something you've been wanting to talk about.

A cause, a memory, a belief, a world view.

Anything.

r's note: My home computer is down but as soon as I am able I will scan pictures of the man known as Fagg and that Christmas Kiddie City exploded in our house. 

*Meaning that I am staying home feeling sorry for myself and not getting dressed whilst eating Ramen Noodles.

Tangled Tuesdays: Yarn Shops

I found myself with some free time last week and decided to visit the yarn shops, A Finely Knitting Party in Swarthmore and Stash in Ardmore.

At A Finely Knitting You I was welcomed by owner Cathy and a few other knitters who encouraged me to give my hand at knitting a few of the beautiful items on display. I felt very welcome and not rushed as I browsed and squished yarn.  When I admitted that I was a crocheter I was encouraged to visit their Ravely page or to check out their calendar of events and classes.

There were a variety of blends and I didn't feel like I was breaking the bank (a lot) as I shopped. I did score some self striping yarn and a soft Berroco blend for a hat and scarf that are on the needles and hooks. My one complaint is that they don't take debit/credit cards. The cash or check policy helped my wallet and kept me on my budget but it was a pain having to look for my banks's ATM.

At Stash in Ardmore, I was greeted by Joann who was working on a pattern and invited me to take my time and shop. When I shared that I was a crocheter she shared the schedule of classes available and showed me a wonderful book from Interweave Press that would guide me on my knitting journey. The store is beautiful, brighly lit and full of colorful displays with soft skeins of yarn. I was happy to see a made in America variety of yarn. I didn't make a purchase here but can see me returning soon.

Sadly my camera is acting wonky so I am unable to share pictures from either store. Visit them online for a virtual tour or if you are in the area stop by for your own experience.

-r





This post is a part of mrsrkfj's Tangled Tuesdays. Link up here!

Just Dance: Abba!

When I got the e-mail saying that I would be a receiving a Just Dance Abba game I was really excited. Disco! Abba! Glam! Hooray! However I found that Just Dance Abba wasn't quite the experience I was hoping for. It was fun but not a family favorite and our dance party did not go quite as smoothly as I would have hoped.

Read more at Review it Rah-shay!

Flashcar!

I got a copy of Flashcar from Banner Industries and thought my group at the library would be perfect to try it with.The group of children who visit the library after school is typically the 'tweens, ages 8-12, and majority male. In my mind I thought this game would be a perfect way to slide in some education, entertainment and reinforce the math skills that they all need to learn.

Read the rest of the review on Review it Rah-shay!

#SOCS: Hot for Teacher

r's note: This post totally took more than five minutes as I was interrupted by a student.

I've been thinking about school lately.  Me, The Bee, the kids I work with and after hemming and hawing I think its high time for me to make my way back. Watching the students here at my part time gig makes me think fondly of sneaking gummy bears into the library and reading a book. I am damn good at what I do but the insecurity I have of not having my degree rushes in and chokes the life out of any spark of confidence I dare feel. I am scared to even consider it. I feel like I have had my three (four, five, et al) chances and screwed up and now I get what I get because I allowed life to be the excuse I needed not to finish a paper, not to turn in an assignment, not to whatever.

As I watch the last minute scramble for notes, papers and refence materials I wonder if I can do this again. I know I would wear thise letters behind my name like a badge but thinking about textbooks, syllabi, APA! Ai yi yi!

As a young student people would always caution me to finish school but there was always time. Then one day I was in my 20s and there was still time. Then I had The Bee and a well paying job so it wasn't as important. But now with a job that gives me satisfaction I feel incomplete. I know my stuff but shy away from giving my opinion less someone find out the truth: I've got no papers.

School starts up in a few weeks and as I fiddle with the application I keep telling myself there is time. I may be almost 40 but I with or without that degree I will still be almost 40. I can do it but feel like I've had my time and should gracefully chug. Or not. A writing class or two may be just what I need to breathe life into my blog.


This was my 5 minute scholarly Stream of Consciousness Sunday post. It’s five minutes of your time and a brain dump. Want to try it? Here are the rules…

• Set a timer and write for 5 minutes only.
• Write an intro to the post if you want but don’t edit the post. No proofreading or spellchecking. This is writing in the raw.
• Publish it somewhere. Anywhere. The back door to your blog if you want. But make it accessible.
• Add the Stream of Consciousness Sunday badge to your post.
• Link up your post on the site.
• Visit your fellow bloggers and show some love.

Between the Covers: Sirenz

Dressed to kill is no mere saying when it comes to frenemies Shar and Meg! These two unwittingly become the newest sirens of the underworld when a fight over a pair of shoes causes them to accidentally kill an innocent bystander! Making a deal with Hades the two find themselves racing against time to complete their task and save themselves from Hell.

Charlotte and Natalie...NOT frenemies!

If you love Greek Mythology with a contemporary twist then check out Sirenz. This is the debut book from best friends Charlotte and Natalie and is a fast and funny read. The shenanigans of Neg and Shar will have you laughing out loud as they try to collect on a contract of a person who made a deal with the devil. The chapters are alternatively written from the point of view of Shar and Meg, each bringing a unique point of view to the story.

This is the perfect book for the teen fashionista. Charlotte and Natalie share a lot about fashion in this book without it being overwhelming and I have to give them props for making a size ten shoe desirable. The details about style and clothes are not overwhelming and the description of a sample sale has me wanting to get to New York quick!

I had an opportunity to meet Charlotte Bennardo and Natalie Zaman late last summer and they are local ladies (tri-state area yo!). The sequel to Sirenz is due out next summer and looks to be just as much fun.

You can buy this book on Amazon, at your local independent book store or visit your local library.

Hoping to shop, but not until I drop,
-r

Accidental Christmas Movies

T'is the season for holiday movies! When I was a kid, holiday movies were a tad more special (I also walked to school barefoot in the snow uphill both ways). They were exclusively aired and shown around the actual holiday said movie was about. There were no Bad Santas in July, no Charlie Brown Christmas specials in March and if you missed Frosty as he searched for a way to stay cool when it aired, it sorta sucked to be you. Now with videos on demand, DVDs, Hulu and You Tube anything is available at anytime and sometimes I feel like I'm ruining a tradition by watching movies off season.

Anywho, my favorite holiday movies are as varied as can be. There is It's a Wonderful Life which was introduced to me by my aunt. She was unable to sleep and while flipping through the channels, found this movie and allowed me to sneak in her room and watch. As a kid I just couldn't wrap my head around how selfless George Bailey was. As an adult I find myself cringing and having to leave the room each time Uncle Billy loses the money (insert something snarky about his character).

I love Its a Charlie Brown Christmas if for nothing other than the dancing Peanuts gang. When I was a kid, and more so as an adult, I feel a sense of outrage at how Charlie Brown is treated. Talk about being bullied! I have always hated the way Charlie Brown was treated and his being mocked for getting that little tree. Mom always encouraged Buffy and I to be kind and take pity (now we call it empathy) on people and things that were often overlooked. I can totes see me picking the bottom barrel something in hopes of saving it and having pine needles dropping off and following me around the house.





I totally enjoy Bad Santa because it's just so bad! Billy Bob Thorton is such an anti-hero and this movie is full of vlush worthy moments that I eagerly watch. The scene below sums up how delightfully mean and awful   Bad Santa is.




But there are the movies that are just movies that HAPPEN to take place at Christmas and accidental movies. Effin' Guy and I were trying to put together a list and came up with a few. I then appealed to the masses (aka Facebook Friends) for their take.

Here goes:
Die Hard 1 and 2. In both movies Bruce Willis's Detective McClain is going to visit his peeps during the holidays.

Trading Places: Set in Philadelphia (another list that's coming) during Christmas and New Year's. Eddie Murphy as Billy Valentine always makes me laugh.

Batman Returns: The new Batman movies always looks dark and cold and bleak so I forgot all about this one but yuppers! There is that scene when the ice princess (whatevs) gets attacked by Penguin's people and they blame it on The Batman.

The oher movies suggested were actually holiday movies. I was looking for things that were not overly Santa-fied, NO reindeers, reindogs, cats or whatever. No Elves. What say you all?
What movies am I missing?

Ha, ha, ha!
-r

The Art of the Possible

How the Momagenda and Brenda K Reynolds are the tools I need to clearing the clutter.
Or, my life is a mess and this can't hurt.

The last few weeks have been made all the more stressful with the looming holiday upon me. Work is busy, life is busy and all the while I feel like the massive clutter that has taken over my life has all at once overwhelmed and shamed me. As I rushed around the house searching for my keys (they were on the hook like they were supposed to be) it occurred to me that there has to be a better way and that I need to actually do something.

So when the e-mail for SEPLA's annual conference and meeting came through my inbox featuring a workshop called Getting Things Done, the Art of Stress Free Productivity I knew I was going. Even if I had to pay the fee out of my own pocket something with the words "stress free" spoke to me. This was one of the best workshops I have attended in a while. As the presenter, Brenda K Reynolds, spoke, I felt as if the dim light I have been seeing at the end of the clutter is visible again and that I can take control of my life and not spend some much time full of angst and guilt. It's not that I needed Brenda's permission to own my clutter and loose ways but hearing her plan made me feel that the endless lists that I compose can now ne controlled and my days won't be the negative wild rush.

We started off with four quotes and the one that spoke to me was from David Kekich: "Anxiety is caused by a lack of control, organization, preparation and action."


Whoa!

There are days when I am riddled with anxiety as I worry about whether a program will go well, if The Bee is ready for her day, or just the logistics of getting to and from work are going to be OK because I had not done all I could do to prepare. The weeks, days, day, moment, that I am prepared is such a giddy yet false time for me. I primp and preen, falsely confident that everything else will go well only to slide back into the old trap of not being ready, losing things in plain sight and just not knowing which end is up.

With Brenda's tips I feel a little better equipped and that I have a plan for controlling the massive amounts of clutter and disorder that has taken over my time. There were so many things that made me want to declutter and organize without the shame that I often feel at being so out of control.

She started us out by talking about managing "Open Loops." These are the many agreements that you make with yourself. Such as the running lists of things to do, the projects for work, homework or supplies for The Bee, the shopping that needs to be done and other things that causes a cluttered mind and thought. Brenda admitted that she doesn't like visual clutter and I can dig it! When I clear whatever area I'm supposed to be addressing (desk, yarn things, laundry) I always feel like a that clean canvass gives me room to work and since I can't see the clutter I can manage. This is a temporary band aid but it works for me on some psychological level.

We had a short test in which we wrote down one of the loops and I found myself feeling stressed and guilty that the simple thing I listed (a thrift shop donation) hadn't been done. When I brought this up she encouraged me to not feel guilty but to acknowledge that this loop had a way to be fixed and to acknowledge that I am working on fixing it.

She then shared with us the five stages to mastering a flow of work:


1. Collect things that command our attention
2. Process what to do about them
3. Organize the results
4. Review the options for what we choose to do
5. Do

As simple as these steps may be for some, for me I think I would have a better chance scaling a mountain. Blindfolded and shoe less than getting myself organized and STAY organized. I always think that once I clear the clutter, clean out the car, organize my files its supposed to stay like that but no, it does and will maintain some repeated effort. Brenda likens organization to doing laundry: even though you're done (you've washed, dried, folded and put it away) there will always be more that needs to be washed, dried, folded. This is going to be work and thankfully I'll have the tools to assist.

Earlier this year I was able to score a MomAgenda that I have actually used in various stages of success. The planner is pretty neat; there is the overview of the month (mine runs from August through the end of next year) and then a weekly breakdown. There is a section for your week for the things that needs to be done for yourself, a section for your kids and groceries. Since I only have one kid I broke down the kid section into The Bee related activities and blog related stuff. I wasn't using the MomAgenda because I thought I needed more room to write about EVERYTHING I wanted to do but as Brenda suggested, she takes her planner and writes an overview of what she is doing for the next week. She then has a computer file that she goes into more details of her week. As I am still married to paper and pencil I like the idea of having a planner where I could write everything that I need.

Last evening I hadn't started any type of organizing (I was kid free and my guy was also free!) but I have started a goal for the next week:

Use the MomAgenda and my work planner for the rest of the week.
I jotted down the ideas that I had been thinking about and even if I don't do everything exactly as planned I feel as if I have a starting point.

Week at a glance.
Really, I'm not THAT busy!

Week in a bit more detail

Celebrate the victories!
Instead of dogging myself for what I didn't do I will happily acknowledge the things I did get right.

Maintain
I have managed to clear some clutter but will sabotage myself by adding to the clutter assuming that I will take a day to clear it all up. No. Instead of dropping my bags wherever I feel, I will put them away. Everything has a place and its up to me to find that place.

We'll see. I feel like I am ready to go of the clutter and be able to walk across the room without a series of complicated moves. Also, its about high time my sister stops reminding me when Hoarders is on or sending tweets my way when I comment on the show.

It's possible.
I'm ready
-r

Tangled Tuesday: The one where I talk about WIPS, Hooking, trying to knit, and Yarn but really, that's all I do...talk

Yes. That very long, TMI* title should give you some insight about where my head is but in case you need more here it is: I've got nothing. I've been schlepping my bag all around full of yarn, my knitting that I was so proud of stuffed in the bottom of my bag and I can't get inspired.

Here are some of the things that should shame inspire me but I just gave a thumbs up and said, go for it!

-The Bee bought a throw from her school's Santa workshop because she says the house is cold and that I had other things to work on. This was said with tween 'tude and a look tossed towards my abandoned supplies.

-Effin Guy mentioned that I left two hooks at his store. I probably should have retrieved them by now but that would mean that I would have to finish the things that I started. I read a book instead.

-Liliana has claimed a ball of fun fur as her own. I almost got upset but realized it was the yarn I was using to make The Bee's ill fated Halloween costume. I was upset when I had to change her litter pan. Fun Fur litter droppings....eww.

-Pop and her bestie, A (she needs a name...A will do for now) have taken to calling, tweeting, texting me about their desires: a scarf, hat, scarf and mittens and some other things that I can't even begin to think of making.

-My fried Dewey Decimal Dude has asked BUFFY to make his Harry Potter scarf. Yes, two years and two movies is a long time to wait. Whatevs!

-I have been avoiding a few other friends because my WIPS have turned into won'ts (hiyo!)

I hope my motivation returns soon! I miss the dipping of hook into yarn and making something. Besides, I cannot keep justifying the yarn I've been hoarding OR the excuse to buy more.

What's on your hooks or needles?
-r


*TMI: Too Much Information

NaPoBloMo is Ovah! But what next?

In which I enjoy the taste of crow.

November had been one heckuva month. I think post pretty regularly but with BlogHer's National Blog Posting Moth Challenge I wanted to make sure that I had fresh, interesting content on my site daily (I really wanted to win those BlogHer tickets). However as the month began to fade away all I could do was think of the glorious land of December 1st when I wouldn't have to post daily. When I hit send on November 30th all I could think of is "Whew! I'm glad that's over! I'm done yo! (Because this is how I speak...totes!)
I can proudly share this new blog tat but it was a challenge!

Each day I felt pressured to post by midnight...Gotta hit send before midnight! Gotta hit send!  Each day I wanted to make sure what I was writing about was relevant but getting sick midway through the month, not planning and the pressure I put on myself made me want to quit altogether! I really was all set to say Buh-Bye to blog challenges of any sort but a few things forced me to reconsider.

Fellow blogger, Here We Go a Jen (awesome name!) has been blogging daily every day for FOUR years. FOUR! YEARS! Wow! She's clever, she's crafty and she has little kids (!). Seriously, If she can make the time to post, I think I can too. Bah! That sounds like one of those insults disguised as a compliment but it's really not. I really admire that she makes time to be crafty, creative and then shares it!

I also realized that I need to plan better. Forreals. I have an editorial calendar that I always ignore. Well that's not true. I exercise my right as queen of procrastination and find myself rushing to put out posts that are littered with typos, not completely thought out and when I DO re-read them I often wonder how ANYONE would ever understand me! I don't have to send hours writing but I can plot it out a bit better and plan ahead. Instead of posting three awesome posts on one day, I can spread the love.

Every blog hop does NOT need to have a contribution by me. I do love sharing what I read (James and Jax), what I am hooking (mrsrkfj's Tangled Tuesdays), pouring my heart out with Shell (Things I can't Say) and rambling on, uninterrupted for five minutes (aka allthingsfadra's Stream of Consciousness Sunday) but sometimes I pressure myself so much that I find that I don't even want to write and then its not fun. I also find there are blog hops all over the blogosphere, some work for me, some don't. That is OK.

But I do so enjoy the challenge a Blog Dare, NaPoBloMo or others offer. I tend to stay in my head...a lot (gasp!) and these challenges often force to think about someone other than Moi. Which is why after an emphatic Heck No! I am munching on my words. I saw a tweet about the Blog Dare. I kinda scanned over it and initially thought it was going to be about a weight loss challenge. When I read it again I realized it was another challenge. I balked but saw this tip on their site:

Don't force yourself to write, always think quality over quantity

Looking at the site for prompts from last year I realized Bloggy Moms had a score of prompts that I may already write about: Secret Single Behavior (extra, extra, extra whipped cream in my cocoa yo!), a post on my favorite blog and more like this. I will still participate in my blog hops, swings, tours, this challenge, maybe BlogHer's Monthly challenges and more

So stick around, tell a friend and be prepared for more sayitrahshay posts. With feeling.
-r

It's a Harry Potter Type of Weekend!

It's been a Harry Potter type of weekend. ABC family has been doing (another) Harry Potter movie marathon, we are planning a mini-marathon at work and I won a copy of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (woo-hoo...thank you www.LocalFunforKids.com). Dill has been attempting to make Polyjuice potion and to me that was the universe urging me to revisit the world of Harry Potter and give it a re-read. My favorite has always been book three, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, but today as I raided the library book 4, The Goblet of Fire, almost seemed to jump off of the shelf at me. 
Re-reading HP is always a treat. The movies are fantastic but like a lot of book to movie adaptations lots of plot points are left out. While I know the basics the small details are like little surprises that draw me back to Hogwarts castle. As I watched the movies and then read the books I thought about some of the things from Harry Potter's wizarding world that would be helpful to Muggles. Sort of like an all I learned in life I learned from Harry Potter but this list in incomplete. 
Chocolate. Like in Harry Potter where chocolate cures what ails you or in Harry's case a dementor attack.
Magical travel. Broom Stick. Aspirate. Floo Network. What a wonderful way to travel! I would never be late for work again!
Spells.Accio: Kid/cat would actually come when called.Sonorus: Never again would I have to sing "opera" to get the attention of my kids.Reparo: to repair all of the crap that I keep breaking.Expecto Patronus: Not sure what mine would be. Since it takes the form of an animal I hope its not a monkey (eww).Immobulus: For those kids  that just won't stop moving.
Pensive.Bye bye to all of those bad, awkward memories. 
Gold Plates In the books and movies, meals are magically prepared. In one book Dumbledore merely studied a menu and shouted at his plate to make his meal appear.
If any of the above is making you scratch your head I implore you to run to your nearest library, bookstore or call a friend to borrow or buy the Harry Potter series. Magic and fantasy may not be your things but JK Rowling does a fantastic job creating this world.
This post is a part of the Weekend Reading with James and Jax hop. Every Sunday through late Monday night link up your blog post about whatever it is that you’re reading, or your kiddo is reading, or how you’re not reading, or where you like to read, or what are your favorite things to read…. Whatever you want that has anything to do with reading!


Grabbing my ticket for the Hogworth Express,-r

Bai me a cuppa!

In which I  share why Bai is my new cuppa of choice.
Or Caffeine Me.

Everybody who knows me knows that I am dedicated worshiper at the temple of coffee. It's always time for a cuppa; I can totally drink coffee all day long with hardly any side effects (and with that run on sentence I have just jinxed myself!). My social media group had a holiday party on Monday and one of the sponsors was Bai. Before Monday I had never had Bai, let alone heard of them. Since then, I am hooked!

I have tried Mango, Pomegranate and my favorite, Panama Peach. Of the three Peach is my favorite with Mango a close favorite. These two had a pleasing taste, a lovely aroma and there was no after taste. The pomegranate was a tad bitter to my tongue. I am a "would you like to have coffee with your creamer and sugar" gal and tend to like sweet over savory.

Since I have been drinking Bai I have not been jittery or experiencing the crash that I usually feel by mid day.Yes, it's only been three days but whatevs.The drinks I tried were low calorie, 5 calories per serving and is full of antioxidants (which I am told are good for me but I still am not sure what antioxidants are but if it tastes as yummy as Bai then I'm digging it!).

When I checked the website there are plenty of locations close by that serve Bai and this is being added to my shopping list. I will probably still have my coffee but find that Bai will be a really great supplement.

Sipping away,
-r





r's note: In the spirit of disclosure please know that I was able to sample Bai free of charge but was not asked to review this item or write this post.

The Twelve Days of Christmas: A December to Remember

Today's Yesterday's Twelve Days of Christmas prompt: November 30: Holiday Bucket List

Each year I always vow to do seasonal activities but something, anything always gets in the way. My life is a great huge cycle of shoulda, coulda, woulda and this year I vowed to say yes a tad more, get out a bit more and take advantage of things.

Working every Sunday has put a time constraint on what I do. Saturdays are usually a whirlwind of The Bee related activities, catching up on a  week of neglected household chores and just enjoying not working. In a few weeks I will be off from the side gig for a while (yay for time, so-so for wallet) and will use those extra Sunday hours to catch up with the things that only seem to be available on the weekend.

Holiday Bucket List for 2011
Decorate my house.
I'm not a big fan of decorations. They are quite the pain in the ass. Digging them out from whatever place I stored them, unwrapping them, beginning to place them and then realizing that I have to move stuff around the house in order to fit them...Bah! This year I plan to do a few holiday decorations. I found a few things on Pinterest that I wanted to try.

My family does a Twelve Days of Christmas thing in which we exchange little gifts. I like these boxes so that I can place small but meaningful items for The Bee and Mom.

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachée on Pinterest

Source: mattersofgrey.com via Rachée on Pinterest

I

I love these Darth Vader snowflakes. This can also be a cheat decoration, I'll have winter covered and won't have to rush to take down the decorations. I think we can make these as we watch Star Wars.

I also want to make gift packages and found this tutorial on Pinterest too.

Source: howaboutorange.blogspot.com via Rachée on Pinterest

My mom is one that saves bags and boxes and the like but it seems so wasteful to buy them when I can repurpose some old newspapers.

We are going to take a trip to see the Light Show at Macy's (formerly Wanamaker's). Buffy, the kids and I always take a trip down on the train to see the show. For one brief holiday season I used to work in Wanamaker's as a floater and at one point knew every word to the every song. Fun times.
We also check out Dickens Village and what the heck, get a picture with Santa.

This year we are making cookies, visiting friends and going to go caroling. I am totally going to watch it's a Wonderful Life a few times and of course, Bad Santa.

I know these items may seem superfluous and silly but for a person like me, who allows herself to let anything become an excuse, I am excited to get out and going and sharing the holiday with my kid, my guy and my family.

What's on your list?

Working a Fett,
-r




Barbara from A Life in Balance (she was a guest blogger earlier this year!) put together a special list of posts to highlight the upcoming holiday.  Each day from November 28th to December 9th, bloggers are invited to share special holiday themed topics.  Please feel free to link up or visit the blogs of all of the participants.