A Bushel and A Peck: Goals, Musings, Writings

No Goals for 2012!

2012-01-01T21:48:00.000-08:00

My goals and resolutions for 2012 are...

Image Credit: Michal Marcol

I'm not telling!

In the past, I've shared my goals openly, in detail and with grand intention.

I'm not going to do that anymore.

Why? I came to the startling conclusion over the past year that sharing my goals does NOT help me reach them.

Rather, I've found it does the opposite.

I've learned that sharing my goals actually hinders me. It makes me question myself when I feel myself falling short.

It hands off my secret energy. When I give that away, there's not much left to give so I freeze up; I'm paralyzed. Ultimately, it gives me something to feel guilty about if I don't reach my goal.

I don't like guilt, so I'm doing away with it this year!

I came across a rather interesting statement the other day made by C. Hope Clark, author and editor of FundsforWriters.com. Rather than paraphrase what she said, I will let her eloquence speak for itself.

“...I believe that broadcasting your goals takes some of the starch out of them, leaving them less exciting. Many writers announce their goals, thinking they'll be held more accountable by making promises in writing and out loud. Keep your goals to yourself, as if you are planning a surprise. Face it . . . if you told everyone around you what your presents were going to be, the feeling of awe when they are finally revealed feels rather dampened.” ~ C. Hope Clark [http://hopeclark.blogspot.com/]

I couldn't agree more.

So, here's to working on my presents for the year without anyone knowing what they are. I'm excited and energized for all that implies.

It means I'm only accountable to myself, which is how it should be, really. It means I have free range to try, do, make mistakes, and try some more.

If I get there is not the important thing.

Am I doing?

Am I continuously doing, day in and day out? And then doing some more?

Am I working towards what I value? What excites me? What sparks my spirit?

If so, that's all the validation and accountability I need.

Besides, it will be much funner to share the journey, the beautiful screw-ups, the awesome lessons learned along the way.

Cheers to all the stuff we're doing and places we're going in the year ahead!

Chocolate I Have Known

2011-04-05T15:35:00.000-07:00

I love chocolate.
It's something I crave from time to time.
Okay, I give. I crave it daily.
Unfortunately for me, losing weight, keeping fit and eating chocolate daily don't jive (and I'm not a fan of dark chocolate), so I found a couple great snacks that satisfy my chocolate urge and don't pack on the pounds. One of these snacks also covers my ice cream craving, so I nipped two birds in the beak with this one!

Jell-O Mousse Temptations
As I was packing my daughter's lunch one morning, I had an urge to pop open her chocolate pudding and inhale the contents. So, instead of doing the unspeakable, I set out on a search for some chocolate pudding that both tastes good and is low in sugar. I found that Jello-O pudding has many low sugar products, but it was the Temptations line that enticed me with it's mousse-like pudding, 60 calories per cup and zero grams of sugar.

It tastes so light and chocolately I knew from the second I tasted it that this was my go-to chocolate friend. My favorite is Chocolate Indulgence, but there's also Caramel Creme, Dark Chocolate Decadence and a new mint flavor called Chocolate Mint Sensation.

Once I stocked up on Chocolate Indulgence I tried to keep it off my kids' radar because I knew once they tasted it they would love it, want it, and eat my stash.

My chocolate pudding! MINE!!

I was right.
Now my daughter wants me to replace her pudding with my pudding. She is as in love as I am. I also read that you can freeze it, and I just may try that too and see how it tastes.

No Sugar Added Fudgsicles

I learned about these when I first researched the South Beach Diet. They have less calories (40 per bar), and of course sugar (2-1/2 grams), than their regular Fudgsicle counterpart. None of the other ricotta infused, sugar-free recipes that South Beach Diet suggests sounded like anything edible as far as I was concerned. I needed chocolate and I needed ice cream. At the same time. I was a little hesitant of them at first, (how good could no sugar Fudgsicles really taste?) but bought them anyway. SOLD. They are just perfect for my after dinner, chocolate & ice cream mind scream that tempts me to my freezer at night.

I am so jazzed I now have two desserts that satisfy my chocolate needs without making me feel like I have to run for fifty hours after consuming.
And yes they are needs.
No need to water it down or anything.

*I am in no way affiliated with either of these brands and receive no compensation for mentioning them. I'm so thrilled to find them and just want to pass along the find!

February 2011 Goal Update

2011-03-17T18:50:00.000-07:00

I'm a little late on my goal update for the month of February. So, let's get right to it:

1. Lose 52 pounds
At one time, I was down 4 more pounds for a total of 16 pounds lost, but it fluctuates up and down and has never made it all the way back down. Basically, I'm weighing the same as I was in January (give or take 1 to 2 pounds).

I took measurements of my body at the beginning of February, but when I went to take them again they were so off from the original (in both directions) that I know something is wrong. I need to learn how to take proper measurements and start over.

I have slipped somewhat on my healthy eating plan, but I always jump right back on track with my next meal. I'm not hitting an average of 3 times per week exercise, so my consistency needs work. On a postive note, I have been walking a lot more, taking stairs whenever possible and keeping busy on my feet as much as possible versus sitting on my tush all day.

March outlook: Become consistent with exercise, at least 3 times per week. Walk daily. I will lose 4-8 more pounds. Take measurements again the proper way and re-evaluate after one month.

2. Enter my writing into at least 12 contests (1 per month)
This month, I sent my poetry to 2 seperate contests. The point is not to sit around hoping for a reply or a win, it is to get myself into the habit of writing and releasing. My initial goal here is to boost my writing confidence by continually sending my stuff out into the world.

March outlook: Incorporate daily writing practice, even if only 15 minutes a day. Entry into at least one new market.

3. Become more fluent on the guitar
Boo! I've hardly played this month! I can't figure out why. When I end up sitting down with my guitar, I love it. Not sure why discipline to practice everyday is so hard to come by....

March outlook: DAILY practice!!!

4. Read at least 24 books

I enjoyed Number the Stars by Lois Lowry so much in January that I decided to seek out another by the same author. The Giver by Lois Lowry did not disappoint. Once again, this is another book I'm embarrassed to admit I had never read, but now that I have, I believe it sets the benchmark for all distopian novels. Was it easy to imagine happening in our time? Yes. Was it suspenseful and full of wonder? Yes yes. Was it full of interesting, intellectual characters? Yes yes yes. Loved it.

I also checked out Skinny Bitch by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin. Of course, it was the title that captured my interest. Unfortunately, the title was the only thing. Basically the book told me the reason I am fat is because I eat meat. I kept reading hoping to glean some facts I could use in my day to day life. It told me to eat fake cheese and butter. No thank you. Then it began to detail, blow by disgusting blow, how poorly animals are treated. I almost threw up. I'm sure that was the scare tactic the authors intended to turn readers into full-fledged vegetarians, but it merely managed to intensify my need to research the claims further. I liked the authors' "no-nonsense" approach, yet their way of getting a point across to the reader was borderline insulting. In conclusion, I didn't walk away with anything remotely useful from this book.

I've begun to read The Best Life Diet by Bob Greene but haven't finished yet. This is a book I should probably purchase because it's a reasonable guide to follow for healthy eating. It also introduces an exercise plan that utilizes levels as a way to work towards your ultimate goals. This is a book I want in my home library.

I'm also a quarter the way through The Vampire Armand which is Book #6 in The Vampire Chronicles by Anne Rice. I will provide a review when I'm done reading.
During February I also read my fair share of e-newletters, magazines, newspapers and blogs.

March outlook: Finish The Vampire Armand by Anne Rice. Finish The Best Life Diet and let it motivate me to exercise! Make another trip to the library and read at least 2 more books.

5. Make $1000 per month for extra income
I didn't earn a cent this month. However, I think I have a better handle on how Ebay works. I also got Paypal up and running and am ready to post my first item in March.

March outlook: List something on Ebay. If it sells, list again. Work on marketing my writing.

6. Get out of credit card debt
With all the work I've been putting into my apartment, and the poor economy effecting my husband's business, my credit card debt situation is still the same.

March Outlook: Organize paperwork and call consumer crediting counsel to get some assistance.

7. Spend under $150 per week on groceries for my family of four.
Much improvement this month. One week I spent more than $150, but the rest of the time I was able to keep it well under that amount. Our average spending for groceries in February totalled $139/week. This includes toiletries and other non-food items. I've had to learn to go without and make do more than once. We also ate out twice this month for a total of $43. These two times were a treat. Limiting our trips out to eat takes immense discipline but we appreciate, and look forward to, our trips out that much more.

March outlook: Work on menu planning so cooking dinner is not such a chore. Shopping is more pleasant when I know ahead of time what I need, and it helps me better utilize coupons and save more money.

8. Get my foot in the door someway, somehow working in a library and/or bookstore
No luck here. I look daily, but I haven't found any openings.

March outlook: Keep searching!

9. Get all my pictures organized and labeled, both print and digital
I have managed to get some organizing done on my computer. It's a step in the right direction. The first half of February I was still knee deep in apartment renovations, namely reorganizing and cleaning after getting new paint and carpet. My print pictures are all in one place at least. This month I displayed some framed pictures that were in storage. I want to swap out others and get my print pictures better organized.

March outlook: Continue getting pictures on computer labeled and organized. Swap out some framed pictures to start fresh.

10. Post to my blog AT LEAST once per week, preferably more.
This did not happen in Februrary. My last blog post was so disheartening that I wanted to give it the space it deserved.
March outlook: Get posting!

11. Get my husband on an airplane, and finally visit Chicago

Didn't happen this month. But now I have my daughter working on daddy too. I just know he doesn't want to disappoint us! Even if we don't get him on a plane, I see a road trip by car or train in our future.

March outlook: Gotta make that money...one of our biggest obstacles to travel right now.

Goodbye White Stripes

2011-02-02T23:18:00.000-08:00

Today is a sad day for music.

One of my favorite bands, The White Stripes, have officially announced their break up.

You will be missed. Thanks for all the music you've given us over the years.

January 2011 Goal Update

2011-01-31T21:53:00.000-08:00

It's the last day of January and I need to revisit my goals to see how I'm doing:

1. Lose 52 pounds
This month, I'm down 12 pounds! The scale definitely fluctuates; sometimes I'm down only 8 pounds, sometimes 10. But today when I weighed myself, I was down 12. So we'll stick with that.

It seems like a lot, but I made major changes to my eating habits this month. I paid attention to portion size, and the types of foods I allowed myself. I have cut out most sugar, and upped my intake of veggies, proteins and healthy carbs.

No white pasta, rice, breads; it's all whole wheat for this girl.
No ice cream (my biggest weakness), cookies, cake (except for one bite of my birthday girl's cake), or cereal (a tough one for me, especially at night).

Most importantly, I've totally cut out condiments and mock healthy foods that are loaded with sugar such as ketchup, bottled spaghetti sauce, flavored yogurt, instant oatmeals...all kinds of things that seem to be okay to eat, but really aren't if you're trying to lose weight.

I still have about 40 pounds to lose.
February Outlook: I am adding exercise to the equation. I will lose 4-8 more pounds.

2. Enter my writing into at least 12 contests (1 per month)
I sent a couple ideas to two different greeting card markets. I also entered my poetry into a couple different contests. I have been trying to write on a daily basis, using prompts to help me get going when I need a starting point.
February outlook: Daily writing practice! Entry into at least one new market.

3. Become more fluent on the guitar
I have been working on scales and revisiting some old stuff to wash the rust off my chops.
February outlook: DAILY practice!!!

4. Read at least 24 books
This month I only read 1 book, unless Newberry honors count as 2? Maybe? Yeah? No? Okay.

The book was Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. I'm almost embarrassed to admit I had never read this one...it's been on my to-read list for a long time!

It's a children's historical/speculative fiction book about a 10 year-old Danish girl who lives during WW2 when Nazis begin to eradicate Jewish families living in the area. Annemarie Johansen and her family aren't Jewish, but her best friend's family are, so Annemarie summons up the courage she needs during a scary time to help save her best friend's life.

I can see why this book won a Newberry Medal. It's a page turner with all the suspense you would expect from a story written during one of the most insane times in history. I read it straight through from beginning to end, so I'm ashamed to say I read no other books the remaining 30 days of the month.

Most of my reading this month has been magazines, e-newsletters, and blogs. Oh, how I love reading a good blog!
February outlook: Read AT LEAST 3 books to make up for my lack of book reading in January! I have no idea which ones yet!

5. Make $1000 per month for extra income
I didn't earn a cent this month.
February Outlook: I have a bunch of stuff set up to sell on EBay and I am also going to work on marketing my writing.

6. Get out of credit card debt
This one is tough. Nothing happened this month. Unfortunately, I need to get our credit card situation organized so we can tackle it somehow.
February Outlook: Call consumer crediting counsel to get some assistance.

7. Spend under $150 per week on groceries for my family of four.
I spent an average of $184/week on groceries!

At first, I was appalled at this figure because I know that I shopped smart, utilized coupons and really watched what I put in my cart. But then I realized, the figure is inflated because I have seriously altered the types of foods I buy. Organic and natural foods cost more. Also, we've really cut back on eating out which used to help stretch our groceries at home. We're eating out of the home every meal, every day.
February outlook: Get a handle on buying organic and plan out menus so I buy just what I need and nothing more.

8. Get my foot in the door someway, somehow working in a library and/or bookstore.
No luck here. I applied for both type jobs in December and heard nothing in January. {sigh}
February outlook: Keep searching!

9. Get all my pictures organized and labeled, both print and digital.
This project got sidelined this month because we (we, meaning my husband) decided to rearrange our whole apartment and do an intense, deep cleaning which also includes repainting, rearranging and redoing just about everything. I've been busy trying to hold onto as much of my ~~junk~~ stuff as I can at the same time my lovely husband is carrying it out to the trash. Not to mention, I now notice a dozen new projects I need to get started on.
February outlook: Project Pictures begins (I hope).

10. Post to my blog AT LEAST once per week, preferably more.
YAY! Exactly one blog per week this month! With my house in chaos, and tons of hockey to watch, I'm impressed I've blogged this much.
February outlook: I have so many ideas and I just keep stashing them in my idea folder! With that said, I hope to blog more next month.

11. Get my husband on an airplane, and finally visit Chicago.
Despite the fact that he still won't agree to a plane trip, I did get him to mention that, if we win the lottery, he will set foot on a plane to take me to Detroit where we can watch the Red Wings on home turf.

While we didn't win the lottery, are still in massive credit card debt and have no extra money for traveling, I hold a little more hope that I will eventually get him on a plane.

And we will definitely make a detour to Chicago. He'll want to get up close and personal with the Blackhawk boys. I'm sure of it!
February outlook: Work on winning the lottery!
Mention in everyday conversation about safe plane take offs and landings, instead of the usual media mention of plane crashes and disasters.
Butter him up with pictures of the Windy City, blog posts from Meesa chronicling her and Justin's escapades around "sweet home Chicago", and their close proximity to The Blackhawks and the ice they skate on.

How to Keep Fresh Berries Fresh

2011-01-15T22:49:00.000-08:00

About a week ago, I bought some blueberries that were on sale at Sprouts for $1 per 6 oz. container. (* A 6 oz container will provide a little over a cup of berries.)

I have no idea what I am going to use them for, or WHEN more importantly, and since blueberries (and other berries) don't last long in the fridge I freeze them for later use.

Here's how:

Rinse berries thoroughly
Line little critters up on a baking sheet or small dish (depending on what you have).
Stick in freezer for about 1 - 1-1/2 hours
After berries are frozen, take them off plate or pan and put them into a freezer ziploc.
Label bag and stash in freezer for future recipes. I like to use them in smoothies, pancakes, muffins and pies.

Rollaway Blueberries

Unfortunately, my little 6 oz. container is missing a few blueberries. The grocery bagger placed my delicate blueberries with my eggs and I put the bag in the front compartment of the grocery cart. As I exited the store and went down the ramp to the parking lot, my blueberries decided they didn't want to come home with me and slid out of the bag and through the leg opening of the cart.

Blueberries everywhere!

I probably should've went inside to get some more, because I'm sure they would've given them to me with no problem, but I didn't want to take the time and effort, and luckily, they didn't all escape the container.

Instead, I held traffic to pick up my little container and save what was left of my precious blueberries! I'm sure the driver had a few nice words for me...

Recipe?
I think I'm going to try these blueberries, along with some of my frozen raspberries and/or blackberries, in a muffin of some sort. Once I try the recipe I will let you know how it turns out!

Number Eleven and 11 Goals in 2011

2011-01-11T20:17:00.000-08:00

In celebration of 1-11-11 I bought 11 lottery tickets. At 11:11. I hope my choice of date, time, and number of lottery tickets purchased means I am in alignment with whatever forces will cause me to win the lottery. I'm keeping my 11 fingers crossed....

Anyhow, since it's the beginning of a new year and I haven't formally done so, I wanted to share my goals for the year.

But first, I want to look further at the significance of number 11.
Apparently, my life number is 11. I guess this means I am pretty awesome, because 11 is considered a "Master Number"

ex.

I was born June 3, 1973
June = 6
6+3(day) =9
1+9+7+3 = 20, and 2+0 = 2
So, 9+2 =11! Ta DA!!!

Since 11 is a Master Number, it cannot be reduced. You aren't supposed to take 11 and make it 1+1=2. It stays at 11. (So does my guitar amp, but that's another story.) Eleven is also said to symbolize both good and bad traits, both honesty AND sin. Go figure. There is a yin and yang to everything...EVEN numbers!

Seriously though, did you realize...

that 11 is a prime number?
that the number of players on the field in many sports such as soccer, American football, cricket and field hockey is 11?
that the number 11 stays the same when written upside down?
that the 11th step of a 12 Step Program is praying for something beyond ourselves to provide us energy, control, comfort?
World War 1 ended on November 11th? and the Armistice to officially end the war was signed at 6 am, and went into force 5 hours later?
the first landing of the moon was made by Apollo 11?
11 is found all throughout the bible: Joseph had 11 brothers, David had 11 Mighty Men, and there are 11 canticles in the Bible.
that there's SO much more about the number 11 you could do a research project on this number alone?

For more indepth observations of number 11, including incredible historical and biblical occurences, click here. And here's another fascinating article about eleven's significance.

I wish I could say there are 11 mentionings in this blog post of the number, but I'm afraid there's much more.

My 11 Goals for 2011

1. Lose 52 pounds (I'm being cautiously reasonable here, that's 1 pound per week and completely doable!) ~ I might lose more, I might gain some weeks. I'm ready for the flexibility of the scale. Ultimately, I just want to be able to clothes shop without crumpling up into fetal position bawling in the dressing room.
2. Enter my writing into at least 12 contests (1 per month).
3. Become more fluent on the guitar
4. Read at least 24 books ~ Last year, I only read about a book a month. I want to increase that this year. Hopefully by a lot!
5. Make $1000 per month for extra income
6. Get out of credit card debt
7. Spend under $150 per week on groceries for my family of four. This should be relatively easy considering $150 per week is a lot of money, although we struggle with that now.
8. Get my foot in the door someway, somehow working in a library and/or bookstore. It would be heaven to have a job where I am surrounded by books.
9. Get all my pictures organized and labeled, both print and digital.
10. Post to my blog AT LEAST once per week, preferably more.
11. Get my husband on an airplane, and finally visit Chicago.

I hold the least hope for #11.

What are your goals for the year?

All Purpose Cleaner Put to the Test

2011-01-10T21:35:00.000-08:00

Today I discovered a recipe for an all-purpose cleaner I've had tucked away on my computer for who knows how long.

It's recommended for general cleaning in the kitchen and bathroom: for countertops, toilets, mirrors, etc.

Because I'd rather save money by making my own cleaners, I decided to give it a try and put it to the test.

Here's the recipe:

All-Purpose Cleaner
2 cups water
1/4 cup vinegar (distilled white)
1/2 teaspoon dishwashing liquid (like Dawn)

Mix well and pour into a spray bottle (like an old Windex bottle).

I made one batch and used it in the kitchen on the stove, over the stovetop, on the kitchen cabinets, appliances and counters. I also tackled the top of my fridge which, for some reason, is a favorite hangout for dust bunnies.

In the bathroom, I used it on the mirrors, counters, toilet, cupboards and baseboards.

First thing I noticed? No chemical smell. In fact, it really doesn't have a scent at all. Maybe just a hint of a mild, clean scent. A good thing if you're trying to, well ....clean!

Trish's Take:

This stuff works great.
It gives a great shine to all surfaces.
It cleaned up all the baseboards in my bathroom, so I know it would be effective on floors too.
The most surprising thing was how well it worked on my bathroom mirrors. It left no streaks or smudges.
It didn't work well as a degreaser for over my stovetop. I also don't think it's the best cleaner for tubs and showers because it's not strong enough to handle resistant soapscum or hard water stains.

I'm glad I decided to go through my old computer files to come across this easy-to-make cleaner. I will definitely be keeping it on hand for general cleaning needs. Can't wait to find what else is hiding in the dark corners of my hard drive.

End of Read-A-Thon Update: Better Late than Never

2010-10-18T14:52:00.000-07:00

I haven’t blogged since the Read-A-Thon and with good reason. The Read-A-Thon is the most blogging I’ve ever done in one day! I need time to recover.

The day after the Read-A-Thon feels sort of like a book/blogging hangover (for me anyways). I just need some time. Perhaps when I am a more seasoned veteran to blogging, 24 hours of reading/blogging won’t have such a profound effect on my brain.
I am in awe of the many book bloggers who jump right back in to their TBR pile the morning after the Read-A-Thon. You are truly amazing.

Although the Read-A-Thon is long over, I never filled out my End of Event questionnaire, so here it is:

End of Event Meme
1. Which hour was most daunting for you?
Hour 22, when I couldn’t keep my eyes open if you paid me. I lasted longer than last year by an hour and a half, going to bed just 1-½ hours before the end of the Read-A-Thon.
2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year?
In general, shorter reads to give a sense of accomplishment
Specifically: anything by Shel Silverstein, J.K. Rowling and from what I hear, (I need to get on the bandwagon and read the Hunger Games series) Suzanne Collins.
3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year?
I just wish I could do all the mini challenges, but it’s impossible if I want to keep reading. I only struggled with a couple challenges because I was not technologically savvy, (ex. the Wordle). I had no idea how to get a screen shot of it on my blog, so I had to spend a bit of extra time figuring that out. Maybe some instructions for us newbies? I will get the hang of blogging. Hopefully, by the time the next read-a-thon rolls around, I will be an old pro.
4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon?
Everyone participating takes time to visit other blogs as much as possible. It’s amazing given all the blogs involved. I wish I could visit every single, solitary blog participating during the actual even but it just can’t happen if I want to get any reading done. The thought alone of everyone reading together (all over the world) is a really cool thing. And I always have the list of blogs to browse after the read-a-thon, and I’m thankful for that.
5. How many books did you read?
Two (2). I always have such high expectations for myself. But then, all my picks were rather long. Next time I am going to include a few shorter reads.
6. What were the names of the books you read?
Alice I Have Been by Melanie Benjamin
The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder by Rebecca Wells
7. Which book did you enjoy most?
Alice I Have Been
8. Which did you enjoy least?
The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder; only because I liked Alice I Have Been a smidge more, and this was the only other book I read.
9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders?
Love the rhyming cheers. No advice; the more the merrier. It really helps.
10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time?
I will definitely participate again. I will be a reader next time as well. I have too much fun not to.

Read-A-Thon Update: Onward Through Hour 21

2010-10-10T02:33:00.000-07:00

I'm still awake! Barely, but still awake!

I was reading on the couch a bit ago and woke up disoriented with my book open draped on my stomach. I had fallen asleep! I looked at the clock. Only 20 minutes had gone by and I had officially taken a catnap! I picked up my book and read some more.

So that is exactly how I'm making it through the read-a-thon in these final hours: catnaps. I've had 2 already and amazingly have woken up within a half hour each time. The second time I was face down, on a big pillow in my living room floor, a book open in front of me. I don't know why I woke up and didn't sleep through the rest of the night, as tired as I am, but it is only proof that my mind wills to finish this thing!!

It's now 2:20 A.M. PT and I am really hearing my bed calling my name. I am SO close to finishing The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder which I have been reading for most of this day. (*Ever get nearer to the end of a book and scream inside, Let's finish this thing already!! I have.)

Total Pages Read so far: 460
Mini Challenges entered: 7
Challenges won: none

I feel like I could be doing sooooo much better than I am. Although I did take a nice break for dinner and some time to watch a most important hockey game, I feel that I should have long ago finished the one book I've been reading all day and moved on to something else. I feel that I should've read more pages so far. Hmmmm...something to think about as 3:00 A.M (the 22nd hour) approaches.

Read-A-Thon Mini Challenge: Wordle

2010-10-09T22:18:00.000-07:00

Wordle Mini Challenge Hosted by

Reading Through Life

Thank you for the fun challenge and nice break from reading!

Because my blog is rather new, I decided to do a wordle based on the whole blog to see what it boils down to. Here is what it came up with:

I love how reading is one of the largest in the bunch!

Read-A-Thon Mini Challenge: Title Word Scramble

2010-10-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

Mini Challenge : Title Word Scramble
Hosted by Sheery at Sheery's Place (thank you for hosting this fun challenge!)

My unscrambled titles follow. I went a step further and bolded the books I have read in this list:

Firefly Lane
East of Eden
Water for Elephants
To Kill a Mockingbird
The Great Gatsby
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
The Art of Racing in the Rain
The Time Traveler's Wife
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
A Wrinkle in Time
The Polar Express
Love Walked In
Where the Wild Things Are
The Shining
Goodnight Moon
Interview With a Vampire
The Secret Life of Bees
The Search
The Help

Read-A-Thon Update: Halfway!

2010-10-09T16:23:00.000-07:00

Halfway done?! Where has the time gone!

Mid-Event Survey:

1. What are you reading right now? The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder by Rebecca Wells. I am loving it as I knew I would.

2. How many books have you read so far? I have dipped into three different books, only finishing one - Alice I Have Been. I'm almost halfway through the one I'm reading now.

3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon?

I am most looking forward to finishing The Crowning Glory and starting back into The Canterbury Tales.

4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day? not particularly! My girls join in when they feel like reading and are generally keeping themselves busy. They even baked a batch of brownies! My husband is down with a hurt back so it would've been a mellow day anyways.

5. Have you had many interruptions? How did you deal with those? Only interruptions so far have been from my kids but I welcome them!

6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far? How extremely FAST the time goes by! And how hard it is to do mini challenges when you are trying to read. I want to do them all, but just can't.

7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? no suggestions. I think it's great the way it is!

8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year? As a reader, I might throw some shorter reads in there amongst the longer ones so it feels like I accomplished more!

9. Are you getting tired yet? yes I am...but not horribly. This is the time of day when I usually brew up a pot of coffee anyways, as 3:00-4:00 PM is my sleepy time for some reason. So I'm used to feeling sleepy around this time...and a pot of coffee is not far away!

10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered? Cheerleaders, you have no idea how your cheers help us readers! Really. Love coming to my blog to find you cheering me on...it helps. It really does. Readers, something that is helping me is checking in every hour to see where I'm at. I don't post every hour, but I check follow up comments, etc. and look at a few other blogs for a break. It really breaks up the monotony and keeps me connected to other participants.

Read-A-Thon Update: Onward Through Hour 11

2010-10-09T15:31:00.000-07:00

I can't believe the Read-A-Thon is nearing it's halfway point.

I really wish I was keeping track of exactly how much time of spent reading, because I know it hasn't been 11 hours! I've had many breaks!

So far:

only 134 pages read...still reading The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder ~ and what a read! I've cried...a lot! It's made me really think of my relationship with my girls!
I've attempted no more mini challenges. I want to, I just don't feel I have the time if I want to get any reading done. Although, 134 pgs doesn't seem like a lot!
I've been noshing and probably not all too healthily: cookies, brownies, sugary cereals. I did have a turkey and ham sandwich though.
And as promised here is my granddaughter joining in for the Read-A Thon:

See how intently she reads?!

Here she is, totally immersed! :D
A reader after my own heart.

Read-A-Thon Update: Onward Through Hour 7

2010-10-09T11:33:00.000-07:00

It's now 11:00 and I'm entering into Hour 7.

My girls have both joined me in the Read-a-Thon, but right now are now playing a board game to take a break. I am delighted they chose to play a board game versus turn on the TV or a video game.

Randi is reading Eragon by Christopher Paolini, and has now decided she would like a baby dragon.
Sydney is reading Rotten School:The Big Blueberry Barf-Off by R.L. Stine. I have a feeling this book may be a little easy for her reading level, but at least she's reading!
Jennifer has informed me that my 4-month old granddaughter Leighton has also joined me the Read-A-Thon. She sent me a picture to my phone, and once I figure out how to get it on here I will post! Too cute, my little reader!

My updates:

I finished Alice I Have Been. I really enjoyed this book and will have to write a review on it later. It brought me to tears and further ignited my obsessive interest in all things Charles L. Dodgson (aka. Lewis Carroll). What an interesting, interesting man. And this book wasn't even focused oh him, but he fills in the cracks and whispers to be figured out.

Currently Reading:

The Canterbury Tales as retold by Peter Ackroyd, and

The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder, interchangeably.

Most likely I will probably grab other books to read in their midsts as well!

So far:

135 pages read cumulatively. I haven't been keeping track of time...all I know is, I would be reading a lot more if I wasn't stopping to do mini challenges and blog. But it's so fun to do so!

I've participated in 4 mini challenges and really wish I had time to do every single one. So far, my favorite challenge was the Six Word Celebration, hosted by Estella at Estella's Revenge. If I had more time I know I could come up with something better, but here are my 6 words to celebrate the read-a-thon:

~ Turn pages toward better understanding. Read! ~

Back to reading!

Cheers!

ReadAThon Hour 2 Mini Challenge

2010-10-09T07:22:00.000-07:00

Mini Challenge hosted by Elizabeth over at Miss Wisabus

TOP 3 Children's Stories

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak ~ I love it so much I can't see the movie, as I am afraid it will ruin the original.

Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech ~ I read this in college and LOVED it. I wonder how I would've reacted differently if I would've read it as as a child. I just related to the story on so many different levels and it brought tears, which is always an indication to me of a good book!

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh by Robert C. O'Brien ~ I don't remember what I loved most about this story because I read it as a child. I definitely need to revisit it as an adult! I just know it has stuck with me all these years and I always have the urge to pick it up and read it again.

ReadAThon Hour 1

2010-10-09T06:02:00.000-07:00

Woke up a little late. It's 5:48 right now and I haven't yet started reading. Brewed up some coffee, going to answer the Hour 1 questions here, and then I will get reading.

Challenge 1: Hour 1 Questions

Where are you reading from today? home sweet home, and probably mostly on my couch, on my bed and at my desk.

3 facts about me …
I'm a stay-at-home mom
I am a young grandma
I love to read, write, play guitar and listen to music

How many books do you have in your TBR pile for the next 24 hours?
Six, one of which I have already read three-quarters of the way through

Do you have any goals for the read-a-thon (i.e. number of books, number of pages, number of hours, or number of comments on blogs)?
not to stress how much/or how little I am reading! I want to enjoy the day. I would like to get through at least 3 of my books though.

If you’re a veteran read-a-thoner, any advice for people doing this for the first time?
I am by no means a veteran as this is only my 2nd read-a-thon. The only suggestion I have is to keep track of your reading somehow. It can be so much easier if you have some sort of a spreadsheet or template to use. I picked one up at Fyrefly's Book Blog. Should make things a whole lot easier!

On to reading! Good luck to everyone participating.

24 Hour Read-A-Thon

2010-10-08T22:12:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for my second read-a-thon, and I have my stack of library books ready to read. It's after 10:00 and if I really want to do this right, I must get up early so I can be ready to read by 5 A.M. I need to get to bed soon!

I am really excited to get started, especially since I know more of what to expect this time around. I will probably blog every 3-6 hours instead of trying to blog every hour. I will do mini challenges but I won't try to do every one. It takes up too much reading time.

I am already three-quarters of the way through Alice I Have Been, so I will most likely work on finishing up that book first in the morning with my cup of coffee.

I'm off to sleep for an early wake up!

Happy Reading!

Writing Goal #1: POEM Slide

2010-10-04T23:11:00.000-07:00

Here's my writing for the day!

Slide
Back to my hometown
to the park where
I used to play ~

I remember
a particular slide:
silver steps,
a chute of blue rollers,
my size dwarfed
in comparison.

Today,
as I revisit
this old friend,
nostalgia lurks
in my chest
as I search for
the neanderthal
reminder of my youth.

First and second glances,
third and fourth
uncover a small slide
I don't remember.
My childhood,
rotted in time
along with this slide.
I used to climb
to the top
and scream with glee
as the rollers carried me,
long haired
and tender
down that slide,
with only a single care
for that moment.

Now,
my cares laid bare
to find the slide's location
like a cobweb
in freshly painted room,
and I ached
when I found it was
not the same
as I left it
so many years ago.

Trip to Library and Writing Goal #1: POEM Haiku for Leighton

2010-10-03T23:24:00.000-07:00

Took a trip to the library yesterday, and as usual, left with a hefty stack of books. Not sure how long it will take me to read these bad boys, as I'm not putting a time limit on myself, but I will have plenty to read for the upcoming Oct. 9th Read-A-Thon (More on this in another post. And I hope some of you will join me!)

The list:

Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer retold by Peter Ackroyd

Alice I Have Been by Melanie Benjamin

The Immortal: Book 3 of the Cronus Chronicles by Anne Ursu

The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder by Rebecca Wells

All In One Place by Carolyne Aarsen

Dismantled by Jennifer McMahon

I read the Canterbury Tales in college but found them extremely difficult to get through without the helpful translation of my professor. I loved the stories though, (and wrote one myself as an assignment - I'll have to post that to share soon) so here's a retelling that I can read and hopefully enjoy in modern day English! I can't wait to revisit the tales of the The Knight, The Wife of Bath, The Cook, The Friar, etc. They were actually hilarious tales that were "a mirror for medieval society."

Also in college literature classes I became fascinated with Charles Dodgson, better known to most as Lewis Carroll, the infamous author of Alice in Wonderland. So when I heard about Alice I Have Been, a historical fiction novel based on the original Alice who inspired Mr. Dodgson to spin his legendary tale, I knew I had to get my hands on it fast!

The Immortal Fire is the third book in a series that I started reading when my daughter brought home the first book, The Shadow Thieves. She never got around to reading it so I, being the book raptor that I am, snatched it up and read it in a couple days. What fun it turned out to be! I love children's novels that spark the imagination and tell a story with such rich description and believable characters. So I read The Siren Song next and the mythological fun pulled me towards the 3rd installment in the series. Can't wait to get back into the adventures of cousins Zee and Charlotte!

Rebecca Wells had me with The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. So much so, that I read both follow-ups: Ya Yas in Bloom and Little Altars Everywhere pronto upon completion. My love for all three of these fantastic novels makes reading The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder a no-brainer, regardless of an entirely new set of characters. Rebecca Wells paints worlds where you want to be, and I can't wait to enter another of her worlds again soon!

All in One Place and Dismantled are both random picks. I like to surprise myself by pulling something off the shelf I've never heard of before. Let's hope they deliver!

***********************************************

So because of my lack of blog posts, I'm really behind. Behind on book reviews, (keeping up to date on Goodreads), reading challenges, goal updates, etc. So for the next few days and weeks I am going to work my tush off trying to get caught up. I have a lot of reviews to write and I finished so many of these books months ago! I hope I can remember enough to write worthwhile reviews! I will do my best, and that is all I can promise.

On to my writing of the day! It's a short one, but written with love for my granddaughter, Leighton, who visited me this weekend. I wrote it as we went on an afternoon walk.

Haiku for Leighton

Leighton loves her walks

The shady trees smile and wave

Cheers! Leighton is here!

Writing Goal #1: POEM Never and Always

2010-10-02T21:07:00.000-07:00

I have never made a specific writing goal before, and producing a piece of writing everyday is hard work! I think it's so worth it though!

Good or bad, here's my piece for today:

Never and Always

You always

say I can't!

You never

let me do

what I want!

You always

tell me no!

You never

seem to understand!

You always

embarrass me

in front of

my friends!

You never

believe I am

where I say I'll be!

I know.

I never,

and I always.

I never

want you hurt or lost;

I always

want you safe.

I never

want misunderstandings

about the amount

of love

my heart

holds for you.

I always

need to know

where you are

when you're not home.

I never

want you to forget

how precious

you are to me.

I always

cherish you

in my heart

and I will still

when you are old.

But you never!

And you always!

Yes, I never.

And yes, I always.

I will never

leave your side

as long as you shall live,

and I will always

see to it that you

are truthful, honest, kind.

I never

want you sad, mistaken, doubtful.

I always

want you to do your best.

I never

want you giving up

on life's

oh so many tests.

I always

hope it is my arms

that comfort you

when you need.

I never

want you to feel

you cannot come to me.

I always

want what's best for you

and sometimes

I may seem mean,

but I never

want to see you cry

if poor decisions

you have made.

I always

want you to know

you never

have to worry

for I will always,

yes, I will always

be your protector, mother, friend.

October 2, 2010

2010-10-01T23:30:00.000-07:00

I want to apologize for my absence.
I apologize!

I am not going to list my excuses for why I haven't blogged since April, because that's all they would be...excuses. There are many reasons for neglecting my blog, but they are boring and I don't want to bore anyone. I will say, I've neglected something that has been ~~calling~~ whispering my name everyday to get back to. I have a lot of catching up to do and I intend to get started.

For starters, goals.

Writing goal #1: To produce something every day, good or bad.

Here's today's:
****************
On a Night Train

On a night train

making my way to a house

I never knew existed,

I struggle to find a seat.

Left standing,

the ride is bumpy,

jolted,

long.

At my destination

I realize my purse is gone.

I meander back

to where the train and I parted

but like my purse,

the train has disappeared.

I walk up narrow streets

passing cars,

trees

and creeks.

I follow curves of freeway,

beat up signs,

directional arrows,

all taking me where I don't want to go.

Foreign streets with dotted residence

hold no purse of mine.

Out of breath,

tired,

pissed,

purseless.

A million birds chirping

in the chilled air

seem to know more than I do.

They laugh at my misfortune.

I sit sprawled along a curb

confused,

disoriented,

sure that I will

wake up at any moment.

For only in dreams

can one lose a purse

on a night train,

making one's way

to a house

they never knew existed.

©Patricia Beline Barton

October 1, 2010

Top 100 Children's Novels

2010-04-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

I love to read. I really do. Yet when I came across this list compiled by A Fuse #8 Production of the Top 100 Children's Novels, I realized how much work I have yet to do.  (I hate to admit it, but I'm actually a little embarrassed by some of the books on this list that I haven't read yet!)

I've bolded the ones I've read, and placed a * next to my faves. I'm adding the rest to my TBR pile, which grows longer everyday!   How many of these have you read?
[*To give credit where credit is due, I picked up this link from Amanda at A Patchwork of Books.  Thanks for the meme!]

100. The Egypt Game - Snyder (1967)
99. The Indian in the Cupboard - Banks (1980)
98. Children of Green Knowe - Boston (1954)
97. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane - DiCamillo (2006)
96. The Witches - Dahl (1983)
95. Pippi Longstocking - Lindgren (1950)
94. Swallows and Amazons - Ransome (1930)
93. Caddie Woodlawn - Brink (1935)
92. Ella Enchanted - Levine (1997)
91. Sideways Stories from Wayside School - Sachar (1978)
90. Sarah, Plain and Tall - MacLachlan (1985)
89. Ramona and Her Father - Cleary (1977)
88. The High King - Alexander (1968)
87. The View from Saturday - Konigsburg (1996)
86. *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets* - Rowling (1999)
85. On the Banks of Plum Creek - Wilder (1937)
84. The Little White Horse - Goudge (1946)
83. The Thief - Turner (1997)
82. The Book of Three - Alexander (1964)
81. Where the Mountain Meets the Moon - Lin (2009)
80. The Graveyard Book - Gaiman (2008)
79. All-of-a-Kind-Family - Taylor (1951)
78. Johnny Tremain - Forbes (1943)
77. The City of Ember - DuPrau (2003)
76. Out of the Dust - Hesse (1997)
75. Love That Dog - Creech (2001)
74. The Borrowers - Norton (1953)
73. My Side of the Mountain - George (1959)
72. My Father's Dragon - Gannett (1948)
71. The Bad Beginning - Snicket (1999)
70. Betsy-Tacy - Lovelae (1940)
69. The Mysterious Benedict Society - Stewart ( 2007)
68. *Walk Two Moons* - Creech (1994)
67. Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher - Coville (1991)
66. Henry Huggins - Cleary (1950)
65. Ballet Shoes - Stratfeild (1936)
64. A Long Way from Chicago - Peck (1998)
63. Gone-Away Lake - Enright (1957)
62. The Secret of the Old Clock - Keene (1959)
61. Stargirl - Spinelli (2000)
60. The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle - Avi (1990)
59. Inkheart - Funke (2003)
58. The Wolves of Willoughby Chase - Aiken (1962)
57. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 - Cleary (1981)
56. Number the Stars - Lowry (1989)
55. The Great Gilly Hopkins - Paterson (1978)
54. *The BFG* - Dahl (1982)
53. Wind in the Willows - Grahame (1908)
52. The Invention of Hugo Cabret (2007)
51. The Saturdays - Enright (1941)
50. Island of the Blue Dolphins - O'Dell (1960)
49. Frindle - Clements (1996)
48. The Penderwicks - Birdsall (2005)
47. Bud, Not Buddy - Curtis (1999)
46. *Where the Red Fern Grows* - Rawls (1961)
45. The Golden Compass - Pullman (1995)
44. *Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing* - Blume (1972)

43. *Ramona the Pest* - Cleary (1968)
42. Little House on the Prairie - Wilder (1935)
41. The Witch of Blackbird Pond - Speare (1958)
40. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz - Baum (1900)
39. When You Reach Me - Stead (2009)
38. HP and the Order of the Phoenix - Rowling (2003)
37. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry - Taylor (1976)
36. Are You there, God? It's Me, Margaret - Blume (1970)
35. HP and the Goblet of Fire - Rowling (2000)
34. The Watson's Go to Birmingham - Curtis (1995)
33. *James and the Giant Peach* - Dahl (1961)
32. *Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH* - O'Brian (1971)
31. Half Magic - Eager (1954)
30. Winnie-the-Pooh - Milne (1926)
29. The Dark Is Rising - Cooper (1973)
28. A Little Princess - Burnett (1905)
27. Alice I and II - Carroll (1865/72)
26. Hatchet - Paulsen (1989)
25. Little Women - Alcott (1868/9)
24. HP and the Deathly Hallows - Rowling (2007)
23. Little House in the Big Woods - Wilder (1932)
22. The Tale of Despereaux - DiCamillo (2003)
21. The Lightening Thief - Riordan (2005)
20. Tuck Everlasting - Babbitt (1975)

19. *Charlie and the Chocolate Factory* - Dahl (1964)
18. Matilda - Dahl (1988)
17. Maniac Magee - Spinelli (1990)
16. *Harriet the Spy* - Fitzhugh (1964)
15. Because of Winn-Dixie - DiCamillo (2000)
14. *HP and the Prisoner of Azkaban* - Rowling (1999)
13. Bridge to Terabithia - Paterson (1977)
12. The Hobbit - Tolkien (1938)
11. The Westing Game - Raskin (1978)

10. *The Phantom Tollbooth* - Juster (1961)
9. Anne of Green Gables - Montgomery (1908)
8. The Secret Garden - Burnett (1911)
7. The Giver -Lowry (1993)
6. Holes - Sachar (1998)
5. From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler - Koningsburg (1967)
4. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe - Lewis (1950)

3. *Harry Potter #1* - Rowling (1997)
2.* A Wrinkle in Time* - L'Engle (1962)
1. *Charlotte's Web* - White (1952)

Twelve by Twelve Reading Challenge: April

2010-04-13T16:31:00.000-07:00

What better way to tackle my new stack of library books - along with the leftover books not read in the read-a-thon - than with another reading challenge?

Am I crazy? Nah, I just love to read.

This one is a month by month challenge. This month's challenge is hosted by Sheila at One Person's Journey Through a World of Books. The challenge? Whatever rules I set for myself. Pretty cool, huh?

So for April's challenge, even though I'm somewhat of a late starter and there are only seventeen days left in the month, I will attempt to read through the library books I checked out so I can return them on time without renewing. I am usually a chronic renewer! I see all those books and just go crazy. You should've seen me hefting my stack up the stairs to my place last night! Can you say book nerd?

If you are curious what books I will be reading, please see my earlier post. (*minus Cracking Creativity because that is considered a non-fiction book and all books must be fiction!)

Join me with your own April reading challenge!

Musings in the Morning: Read-A-Thon Wrap Up & To Be Read Pile

2010-04-13T10:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I made it 21 hours in the 24 hour read-a-thon.

I read through 1-3/4 books in that time period and finished another book, Pleasing the Ghost by Sharon Creech, the following morning.

I read a lot less than I thought I would, but for me it wasn't about how many books I could read, or trying to outdo anyone else. It was about trying something new, spending some time with my daughters doing what I love, and having fun - which I definitely did. I look forward to October's Read-A-Thon.

If anyone is interested in joining me in October, let me know. I would love to do this with you!

Went to the library last night with the girls. Here's what I picked up:

Lips Touch Three Times by Laini Taylor [for Laini's blog click here. Such a creative and inspiring woman!]
Memnoch the Devil by Anne Rice
The Siren Song (Book 2 in The Cronus Chronicles) by Anne Ursu
When You Reach Me by Rebeccca Stead
The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
Possessed by Kate Cann
Cracking Creativity: The Secrets of Creative Genius by Michael Michalko [for my hopes to become a more creative person]

I am going to start with Laini's book first, and go from there. Have you read any of these books yet? If so, what did you think?

Read-A-Thon Update: Slap Happy but Still Reading

2010-04-10T23:47:00.000-07:00

So we're entering into hour number 19 and I am really starting to show signs of wear. There are deep, dark circles under my bloodshot eyes and I spent a good portion of the time I'm supposed to be reading, trying to predict how The Master Puppeteer ends. My exhaustion prevented me from just reading and finding out sooner that way. Instead I entered into a delirium with my 12-year old and we erupted into slap happy laughter over nothing. I eventually recollected myself and FINALLY finished the book! Woo Hoo! Almost 2 books down. Really. What was I thinking? 15 books? Never try to attempt to read that many books in a 24-hour period on 3 hours of sleep. Never.

First of all, the brain does not function correctly or with any amount of speed whatsoever; and as much as you try, it can't seem to make the connection from the words on the page to the part of the brain that comprehends those words. I have read many sentences over. Numerous times. Unfortunately, that means lots of time spent "reading" equals itty bitty number of pages read. Ah well. I read on with happiness.

Since I last updated, Randi finished another book, Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary. I'm sure she's read it before, but it's been a while. As she giggled throughout the book, I remembered how much fun it is to read about Ramona. So, that's 2 books down for Randi. I'm pretty sure that's it for her tonight. She's so tired that she's not feeling so great. She wants to read more, but it's just not happening. She's off to bed!

Sydney is back to reading again after a lengthy break. She is reading Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney. As much as I love to see her reading, it is late and I will be prompting her to bed soon.

It's been so awesome reading with my girls today. That has been the best part of this challenge - our time spent together.

Randi and Sydney on the last leg of their reading tour

Mini Challenge:
Hosted by Literarily Speaking

This was a fun one because it asks readers to ponder the first book they ever loved. For me, that was the Little Golden book entitled The Monster at The End of This Book starring Lovable, Furry Old Grover. Not only was Sesame Street the show I watched on a daily basis transfixed to the television set, but Grover was my favorite character. He was bumbly, furry, blue and silly. I loved his antics and finding him at the end of the book instead of the scary, ferocious monster he prepared readers for....well, it made me want to hug him at the last turn of the page. I still do.

Number of books read since started: almost 2
Pages read since last update: 79 pgs
Running total of pages since started: 253 pgs
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 3 hour 5 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since started: 8 hours 35 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: 7
Other participants visited: none at this time
Prize you've won: none
What I've eaten/drank: Dinner at Islands...2 Baja tacos and an iced tea.
What I've been doing when not reading:

having a nice dinner with my family
laughing hysterically
trying to read but not computing
helping Sydney rinse her hair

Read-A-Thon Update: Halfway Point

2010-04-10T17:18:00.000-07:00

Mid-Event Survey:

1. What are you reading right now? The Master Puppeteer by Katherine Paterson (which I am throughly enjoying!)

2. How many books have you read so far? 2, not all the way through either yet

3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon? Pleasing the Ghost by Sharon Creech

4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day? Not really. It's a nice Saturday for reading!

5. Have you had many interruptions? How did you deal with those? The only interruptions I've had are those from my kids which aren't bothersome at all to me. In fact, I need interruptions to give me some breaks from reading.

6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far? First, how little I've read. I thought I would be much farther along by now. I'm normally a fast reader but am moving at a snail's pace today. I am also surprised how involved some of the mini challenges are. I think if I spent less time on some of them, I could be reading more. They are so great though and hard to pass up! I've had to pass up a few that I would've really liked to do.

7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? For those relatively new to blogging, as I am, it is rather cumbersome to orchestrate the posts, the links, visit different readers and post and link successfully in time for the deadlines. I think if there was some sort of "pre read-a-thon" (with some instruction on how to handle some of the bloggy stuff), to prepare those who need it, it might make the process go smoother for us newbies! :) I also feel that some of the challenges are great, but shouldn't be a part of the read-a-thon, but rather outside posts for daily interest, because they are rather involved and take up a lot of precious reading time.

8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year? I would get a full night's sleep the night before! I would set up templates days before the Read-a-thon so I could spend less time typing and more time reading.

9. Are you getting tired yet? Oh yes! But I can't tell if it's from reading, or not getting enough sleep the previous night!

10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered? Pick a physical reading buddy, whether it be your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, a neighbor, whatever. It really makes it fun to have someone who is reading alongside you.

Read-A-Thon Update: Hour 11 & 12

2010-04-10T16:25:00.000-07:00

I am so confused on the hours now. Time seems to be moving so fast!

What's new:

Sydney finally joined us! She slept so much she still feels tired! She managed, however, to complete The Little Prince and read with me for a bit from The Witches of Worm.
Randi completed Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
I entered another mini challenge with Nomad Reader. This was a fun one! It required going to Google Maps and placing a pin on the map where our current book's setting happens to take place. The Master Puppeteer takes place in Feudal Osaka, Japan (12c. 19c.) I didn't notice any other pins in that area on the map.
I also entered a Mini Challenge for Reading is Fundamental. Although I missed the deadline, I thought this one was worthy whether I'm up for a prize or not. I chose to spend some time reading with my 9-year old daughter. I always love the chance to spend time reading together. So this was a no-brainer. We are reading The Witches of Worm. It is a rather frightening, eerie tale, but we enjoy it nonetheless! Reading with our kids is important!

Number of books read since started: still only partial of 2 books! I will finish one soon.
Pages read since last update: 41 pgs
Running total of pages since started: 174 pgs
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 1 hour 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since started: 5 hours 30 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: 6
Other participants visited: Reading with Tequila (A blog title after my own heart)

Prize you've won: Zip. Zilcha. Nada. I'm loving the read-a-thon regardless!

What I've eaten/drank: Clementines and some water.

What I've been doing when not reading:

talking to my girls
showing Sydney my blog and how to become my follower
talking about Witches of Worm with Sydney
seeing off Randy and Randi as they go off on a fabric/design hunt for Randi's puppet costume

Read-A-Thon Update: Hour 9

2010-04-10T13:51:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I am on Hour 9. I haven't finished one book yet! I picked out 15. Hmmmm....wonder how close I'll get to finishing all 15! HA!

I feel like I'm reading slower than normal today because I made the mistake of only getting about 3 hours sleep. When husband works graveyards, I don't sleep well. Which is strange for me, because throughout my family I am known as a "coma sleeper."

I'm a little tired.
Just a wee bit.
Hard. To. Read. FAST!!!

It's one of those times when you can read an entire paragraph, or page, or chapter, and have no recollection of what you just read because your mind is muddied with other thoughts or lazy daydreams. Randi knows what I mean. We chatted about it as we read together, legs sprawled out on the couch.

Randi woke up about 11-ish and began reading beside me.
Here's what she's working on:
New Moon & Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days.
As of this update she is also feeling extremely tired, but is doing the best she can. As of this update, she hasn't finished either book. According to Randi, she is almost finished with New Moon but can't seem to get past a rather slow-moving part at this time.

Sydney just woke up! Boy what tired kids! We went to bed WAY too late. She is on her computer right now probably watching silly youtube videos and trying to wake up before she cracks open her first book. I wonder which one it'll be...

My update:
Still working on Wicked and The Master Puppeteer.

I am thoroughly enjoying The Master Puppeteer. This book was recommended to me by my daughter, who just read it for her 7th Grade Language Arts class and liked it enough to pass it on. She has helped me understand the class system of feudal Japan (12c. - 19c.) to better understand the setting for this book. What a smart girl! I am continually in awe of her brilliance!

Wicked isn't at all what I thought it would be but I love the character of Elphaba, more popularly known as The Wicked Witch of the West. Can't wait to see how the story unfolds further. With that, I better get back to my reading.

Title of books read since last update: Wicked by Gregory Maguire and The Master Puppeteer by Katherine Paterson

Number of books read since started: parts of 2
Pages read since last update: 45 pgs
Running total of pages since started: 133 pgs
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 1 hour 20 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since started: 4 hours 15 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: 4
Other participants visited: none since last update
Prize you've won: 0
What I've eaten/drank: 2 cups of coffee! 1/2 turkey,salami and cheese whole wheat sandwich with some pretzels
What I've been doing when not reading:

Talking to Randi
watching, with fascination, my husband sew as he works on a costume for a puppet my daughter is making for a school project
fixing food to eat for Randi and me
eating and drinking coffee
updating blog (this seems to take most of my time)
posting Read-A-Thon on Facebook status
relaxing in my bed chatting with Randi between sentences read

Read-A-Thon Hour 5: Mini Challenge and Update

2010-04-10T11:12:00.000-07:00

At Linus's Blanket, we are asked to find mention of food in the books we are reading.

Here are my finds:

In Wicked, Fiyero comes across Elphaba's abode for the first time where food is not a particularly palatable, nor abundant, commodity.
"She unrolled some dried sausage and some graying bread, and found a couple of oranges and a lemon and put them uncermoniously on the table...'Eat this stuff,' she said at last. 'I'm not hungry. You eat it, go on.'"

In The Master Puppeteer, hunger is Jiro's only motivation.
"Them Mochida brought in a pot of steaming rice. He was followed by a boy carrying a covered earthenware cooker from which the smell of fish and vegetables escaped and snaked seductively through the room.

After Jiro jumps in to feass despite his father's disapproval, he feels ashamed for letting his hunger dictate his actions causing shame to his father.
"Yes, by all rights, Jiro should have choked or at least the food should have turned to dust in his mouth. Instead, it tasted like a heavenly feast. He ate rapidly with his head bowed over his bowl so as not to meet his father's gaze, and as soon as it was empty, he allowed Yoshida to fill it again and again."

Update:
Daughter #1 just woke up. Her first uttered words were, "Are you reading?" Of course when she finally awakes here I am pounding away on my laptop! Daughter #2 has yet to wake up...it's 11:00 A.M. here in the PT. I suppose I should wake her up!

Title of books read since last update: Wicked by Gregory Maguire and The Master Puppeteer by Katherine Paterson
Number of books read since started: parts of 2
Pages read since last update: 42 pgs
Running total of pages since started: 88 pgs
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 1 hour 10 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since started: 2 hours 55 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: 4
Other participants visited: Blair @ In the Turtle Shell
Kate @ I Just Wanna Sit Here and Read
Sheila @ One Person's Journey Through A World of Books
Rachel @ And The Plot Thickens...
Prize you've won: 0
What I've eaten/drank: Bowl of cheerios and milk. Water. No coffee yet! Imagine that!

Back to reading alongside Randi!

Mini Challenge

2010-04-10T09:37:00.000-07:00

From Bart's Bookshelf comes this great Mini Challenge which I had to try.
It requires readers to make a sentence using only book titles. I could've spent gobs of time on this, but I chose to do it lickety-split so I can get back to reading! I will provide an update of my reading next time around.

It's short and sweet, but here's what I came up with:

Dear Diary, please understand me.

Read-A-Thon Hours 1 -3

2010-04-10T08:17:00.000-07:00

I got a bit of a late start, beginning 45 minutes into the read-a-thon, so I'm posting a tad later than I wanted, but it's all good.

Mini Challenge Hour 1

Where are you reading from today? I'm reading from my home in Brea, CA. I am reading on my couch, but will likely move around during the day to keep from getting bored. I will eventually take my reading outside.

3 Facts About Me:
1. I have a unique middle name that I love. I am convinced I am the only one in the world named Beline.
2. At one time I owned 13 cats.
3. I have never won a trophy in my entire life!

How many books do you have in your TBR pile for the next 24 hrs? Fifteen (15). I am certain I won't get through them all, but I will give it my best shot.

Do you have any goals for the read-a-thon (i.e. number of books, number of pages, number of hours, or number of comments on blogs)? My only goal is to have fun and to try to get through as many books as I can. I do plan on finishing the two books I started before this read-a-thon began: Wicked and The Master Puppeteer.

If you're a vetaran read-a-thoner, Any advice for people doing this for the first time? I'm a first timer. I look forward to reading other comments on this.

Mini Challenge Hour 2
Hosted by Miss Remmer's Review
The Kickoff Of Champions

In this challenge, we are to discuss what we are surrounding ourselves with as we begin diving into our reading. I have everything I need in my small abode: my couch, my stack of books, my bed, snacks, and my girls, (who aren't awake yet and I don't have the heart to wake them up so early on a Saturday morning.) I begin my reading on my cozy couch with a notepad by my side so I can keep running totals of my time, pages, etc.

Reading Update (since Read-a-thon began):

Titile of Books Read: Wicked by Gregory Maguire
Number of Books Since Started: part of 1
Pages Read: 46
Amount of Time Spent Reading: 1 hour 45 minutes
Mini Challenges Completed: 2
Other Participants Visited: Amanda at A Patchwork of Books
Prize You've Won: none yet!

Off to read some more!

24 Hour Read-A-Thon!

2010-04-10T01:56:00.000-07:00

What better way to come back to blogging -after almost a whole year hiatus- than with a 24 hour read-a-thon. Yeah, I couldn't think of anything better either!

Better still? I am not doing it alone. I have two eager participants (my daughters) to read with! This is my first time joining the twice-a-year event and I am really excited. I remember reading about it last year in April and thinking, next time I will join. October came too fast and my procrastination reared...next time, next time. Now it's April again and as springtime often entices, I feel renewed and ready! We are a merry reading group of three! *cough book nerds we are cough*

The details:
We start reading April 10, 2010 at 5 A.M. PT and read as much as we can for 24 hours. I know for sure my girls will not be staying up to read the whole 24 hours because they need their sleep! I highly doubt I will stay up the whole 24 hours either because, as anyone who knows me can testify, it isn't pretty if I haven't slept! But I'm going to give it my best shot. Here are the books we picked out:

Sydney's Stack

A Fairy Called Hilary by Linda Leopold Strauss

Boy by Roald Dahl

Socks by Beverly Cleary

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis

The Witches of Worm by Zilpha Keattey Snyder

The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Six More by Roald Dahl
A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Randi's Stack

Peter Pan by J.M Barrie

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
Ice Fire by Chris D'Lacey
Eleven by Lauren Myracle
A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Ersatz Elevator by Lemony Snicket
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days by Jeff Kinney
Ramona The Brave by Beverly Cleary
Ramona and Her Father by Beverly Cleary
Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary
Ramona and Her Mother by Beverly Cleary
Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary
Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary
Pixie Tricks (The Whole Series) by Tracey West

My Stack

Wicked by Gregory Maguire
Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator by Roald Dahl
The Master Puppeteer by Katherine Paterson
Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis
Pleasing the Ghost by Sharon Creech
The Wanderer by Sharon Creech
Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
Absolutely Normal Chaos by Sharon Creech
The Report Card by Andrew Clements
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
What Color is Your Parachute by Richard Nelson Bolles

I know these lists are long, but I wanted to make sure that we each had variety to choose from so we wouldn't get bored. I don't plan on making it through my entire list, but I'd rather have an overabundance to choose from than not enough. Most of my choices are YA titles and I have one nonfiction self-help book for good measure. It's a book I've been wanting to read for a long time so we'll see how much I get through.
For my first read-a-thon I plan on making this as fun as possible which, to me, means flexibility. Here are my parameters, or lack thereof:

I will not force myself to read if I get tired. I will take breaks which include showers, meals, walks, trips to the library (to check out books for my daughter's upcoming historical figure report), naps, Facebook, etc. I will allow myself to flit from book to book if I become bored with one or another. I give myself permission to stop reading a book altogether if I cannot seem to get through. These parameters go for my girls too, as the whole purpose of this is to have fun and see how far we can make it!!

I plan on updating every chance I can during the next 24 hours to inform you of my progress. I can't wait to get started!

Cheers!

2010-04-09T21:17:00.000-07:00

Update: Nutrition & Fitness goals

2009-06-30T16:06:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I am not following South Beach anymore. It's not because it doesn't work. It's not because I don't want to lose weight or take care of my body. It's merely because there are too many foods I want to eat that South Beach doesn't allow. Saturday cheat days work for a while, but soon, they turn into everyday cheat days and then before you know it, you are eating whatever you want, whenever you want...which doesn't work if you want to follow South Beach.

It definitely works for those who can turn it into their lifestyle. On South Beach, I lost inches and felt my clothes fitting less snug. I noticed a flatness in my stomach area and my arms seemed to shrink. It is definitely an awesome feeling, one that I wish I could rejoice in right now. Alas, I am back wearing snug clothes and lamenting over chunky arms, abs and thighs. And I know more than ever I need to get back into shape.

While I'm not where I want to be fitness or nutrition-wise, it's not a total loss. Trying South Beach taught me how to eat for long-term health, not just short term dieting. It taught me to include lean proteins, healthy carbs, and the right fats at every meal. I learned how to cook more with vegetables and some creative ways to use fruits. I also learned that 2% (lowfat) dairy does not taste bad and not all products which claim lowfat/nonfat ingredients are necessarily healthier. Many of them contain loads of sugar!

Since going off South Beach, I haven't stuck to eating the way I know I should, and I haven't been consistent with exercise. Since dropping my stringent following of South Beach, I've been eating foods I can do without most of the time. On a positive note, I did start walking 3-6 times per week, alternated with jogging (which is a struggle for me). Yet once the kids got out of school for the summer, I stopped going my 2 mile route and am lucky if I get in 1 mile of walking/jogging.

I want to get back into my 2 mile daily route, add in some weight training, and get back to eating healthier.

My main goal right now is to lose some weight so my clothes shopping trips will not be so depressing. I hope to share my first success in weight loss with you in about 4 weeks. I will try to keep you updated on my daily/weekly progress with eating healthier and amping up my exercise routine.

Here's to a smaller size! ;)

POEM: I Don't Want to Remember

2009-04-10T10:40:00.000-07:00

It hurts
to remember you
because I want you here.

I don't want
to remember your smile
I want to kiss it before it fades away

I don't want
to remember your kiss
I want to taste it on my lips

I don't want
to remember your laugh
I want to hear it fill our home

I don't want
to remember your sound
I want to melt under your breath's tickles

I don't want
to remember your touch
I want to feel its warmth

I dont want
to remember your heat
I want it to blanket me when I am cold

I don't want
to remember you
because I want you here.

2009 Patricia Beline Barton

~ This is dedicated to my sister who recently lost her husband of 28 years to End Stage Renal Disease. I love you Reesa, and am here for you always. ~

Book Review: Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli

2009-03-27T23:23:00.000-07:00

Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

I initially read this book to determine whether it was appropriate for my 11 year-old daughter to read. Although it is considered a YA novel, any book (fiction or non-fiction) with a theme centered around the holocaust, is a novel I want to preview before allowing my child to absorb.

I was immediately drawn to the short sentence structure and quick action. From the beginning, the reader is drawn into an eight year-old orphan boy's innocent view of a world where he must steal, and become virtually invisible, to survive.

It's a quick read; I read it in one day. It is the boy's innocent and honest view of the world around him during one of the most horrific times in history that kept me turning the pages.

The boy's innocence and naivete to the chaos and pure hatred surrounding him is touching, and rather humorous at times.

Although Milkweed is a work of fiction, it made me wonder how close it came to the inner workings of a child's mind during this time period.

While the central theme revolves around the time leading up to the holocaust, it only takes the reader through the time when Jews were relocated out of their homes to the ghetto. It touches briefly on the time of deportation, when those housed in ghettos were put on trains for human shipment to concentration camps. However, it never visits the horrors of an actual concentration camp.

Some of the prevalent messages that stood out for me in Milkweed were those of hope, love and inner happiness at a time when Nazi occupation colored the world gray with irrational hatred and unfair brutality.

I found myself lingering with thoughts of the book long after I read the final page.

After reading Milkweed, I would allow my daughter to read it. I think I would rather read it with her though, so if she had any thoughts or questions we could talk about it along the way.

Goodreads Review: In Cold Blood

2009-03-25T12:22:00.000-07:00

I love to read. Recently, I stumbled upon Goodreads and promptly registered to keep track of books I'm reading, have read and look forward to reading. Goodreads, like many other social networking sites, also allows readers to invite friends for sharing eachother's current book-reading status. While I normally read quite frequently, this site has definitely elevated my motivation to read even more. I just completed In Cold Blood by Truman Compote.

My review follows:

In Cold Blood by Truman Capote

My review

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Before reading this book, I never knew about the Clutter murders. This book introduced me to what happened on November 15, 1959 to a family of four in Holcomb, Kansas. The tragedy was heartbreaking. Four lives taken without mercy by two men who seemed without conscience. In Cold Blood also delved into the mindsets of the townfolk, the deputy and his assistants investigating the murder, the killers' families, and the killers themselves.

I didn't think I would enjoy this book at first because I don't particularly like reading of murder. It deeply frightens me and delivers me into the nightmare imagination of what could certainly be a possibility for me or those I love.

However, the best part of this book was learning about the psychology behind murder and the psyche of two men who decided one night to wipe out a whole family. Although I was obviously horrified and saddened for the family that was killed, a part of me also felt pity and sadness for the murderers who lost large portions of themselves throughout their struggling existence.

In Cold Blood delivers an unforgettable and unflinching trip into the spirit, emotion, and mind of each soul affected by murder.

View all my reviews.

Venting Time

2009-03-04T17:17:00.000-08:00

This blog is mostly about working through my goals.

I have A LOT of goals. There are many things that I want to accomplish during my life, and I am continuously trying to find a way for organizing my goals so I can better focus on each one.

I've read numerous books. I've bought software. I've utilized Word and Excel. I've tried finding useful applications online. In my desperate quest, I have found a mixture of helpful information and tools. Yet, I remain bewildered.

I am not sure if it's the way my brain works - all chaotic and mult-linear - or if perhaps, I want too many things. Because even with all the information and tools available in books and online, my goals remain numerous without much progress.

I can't seem to find focus or clarity. I'm all over the place and not a lot gets done.

So today here I sit: wanting much but accomplishing little; craving more with less motivation; needing a spark but only finding my energy depleted.

Can anyone say nap?

Catch Up: Valentines Day

2009-02-25T11:22:00.000-08:00

As my title states, I am once again playing catch up. Time seems to get away from me just doing all the little things I do each day. I want to do so many different things, but usually, what I need to do screams louder than my wants. I suppose this blog falls into the want category!

Let me take you back a couple Saturdays ago to Valentines Day. Yes, Saturday is the ever-joyous cheat day. What a wonderful day for Valentines Day to land. It meant I could cheat without feeling guilty.

Randy had been saying for weeks that he was craving sugar cookies like I make every year at Christmas time. So I decided to make him some for Valentines Day, a first for me. Hopefully, these sweet, scrumptious cookies would make his day. I would cut out hearts, X's and O's. I would frost them and sprinkle them with reds, pinks and purples. I was so excited to get started!

I prepared the dough the day before because it needs to be refrigerated before rolling. Then it was time to hunt for some heart-shaped cookie cutters, something I surprisingly don't have in my cookie cutter collection, because as I said, I'd never made Valentines Day cookies before. This turned out harder than I thought. Apparently, everyone else needed heart-shaped cookie cutters too, because each store I went to was a bust.

I finally found some at Michaels, but not without using my keen digging skills to locate an abandoned package of nested hearts that was hiding under a strewn stack of stars, butterflies and various other cookie cutters. When I presented them at checkout, the employee asked me if there were anymore. "Nope!" I proudly declared. "I dug for that one." She went on to tell me how lucky I was because these heart-shaped cutters were a prized commodity. Who knew they'd be so wanted around Valentines Day? ;)

Anyhow, the cookies turned out great, and in addition to the heart-shaped ones, I put together some letter cutters to spell some important words!

For those who are interested, here is the recipe I used:

(taken from Betty Crockers New Cookbook)

Cookies:

1-1/2 cups powdered sugar

1 cup margarine or butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 tspn almond extract

1 large egg

2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cream of tartar

Mix powdered sugar, margarine, vanilla, almond extract and egg in large bowl. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours.

Heat oven to 375. Grease cookie sheet lightly with shortening.

Divide dough in half. Roll each half 1/4 inch thick on lightly floured surface. Cut into desired shapes eith cookie cutters. Place on cookie sheet. (You can sprinkle with some granulated sugar at this point before baking, or wait until baked and frost them yourself!)

Bake 7 to 8 minutes or until edges are light brown. Remove from cookie sheet and cool on wire rack. When cool, frost with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting (recipe below), and decorate with sprinkles.

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:

3 cups powdered sugar

1/3 cup stick butter, softened

1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla

1 to 2 Tablespoons milk

Mix powdered sugar and butter in medium bowl. Stir in vanilla and milk.

Beat until smooth and spreadable.

I have used this recipe year after year at Christmastime. I would love to experiment with another sugar cookie recipe to try something different. Maybe I'll find a recipe I like even better. If anyone has a recipe they like, I'd love to try it! Post it in the comments if you'd like to share!

By the way, everyone LOVED the cookies! :D

Until I post again,

Cheers!

Cool Stuff: Poptarts

2009-02-10T11:21:00.000-08:00

One of my guilty pleasures on a Saturday is a toaster-warmed ooey, gooey poptart. My favorite is chocolate fudge. I also like Smores, frosted Strawberry, Raspberry and Cherry.

My kids love them too.

During the week, when I can't eat them, it is hard seeing them sitting in my cupboard. Sometimes I'll buy ones I know I don't care for (but my kids like) so I'm not tempted during the week.

Then Saturday comes. It's poptart time.

Those commercials that try to make poptarts look plain and boring in comparison to a toaster strudel? Hogwash. Poptarts are yummy!

I came across the coolest little website a few days ago for poptart enthusiasts! At www.poptarts.com there is a section for "kids" and a section for "moms." I don't believe you need to be a kid or a mom to enjoy a poptart. So if you love poptarts, and you aren't a mom or a kid, never fear. This site is for you too.

Register at Poptarts' Sprinklings Club for samples, coupons and other giveaways!
www.poptarts.com/moms/RegisterInsider.aspx

Enjoy!

No Chicken at the Crazy Chicken!

2009-02-04T09:20:00.000-08:00

The healthiest fast food option for me, trying to stick to the South Beach diet, is any place that serves salad or chicken. A salad should be ordered with dressing on the side, and perhaps topped with a protein, such as -- you guessed it -- chicken. Chicken eaten on its own should be breast meat, since it is leaner than a thigh or leg.

After a long day at my sister Reesa's, we decided it was time to figure out what to get for dinner. El Pollo Loco sounded like the healthiest fast food option, and Randy, Reesa and I agreed this was the perfect choice.

While Randy continued to work in the yard, Reesa and I drove to our destination: El Pollo Loco. We knew what we were going to order, how much we wanted, and what special kids meals to get for the kids. We were prepared. We decided the drive-thru was the way to go.

El Pollo Loco Attendant: "What can I get for you?"

Us: "We'd like a 12-pc. meal with 2 sides of beans and 1 side of rice. Extra flour tortillas please. We would also like 2 popcorn chicken kids meals."

El Pollo loco Attendant: "I'm sorry. If you want a whole chicken, you will have to wait a half hour because we are out of chicken."

Us (to eachother): [puzzled looks on our faces] [looking around to see what else is available, but stuck in the drive thru] [mutterings and stutterings of "what should we do?" and "they have NO chicken?"] [complete bewilderment because our plan was falling to pieces and we had to make some sort of a decision...now.]

Reesa to Me: "They have no chicken? " [bewildered and confused]

Me to Reesa: "Are we at El Pollo Loco? Aren't they supposed to have chicken?" [this is more than absurd, but kind of funny]

Our conclusion: "I guess we'll wait." [peals of laughter]

So there we are, two sisters, wanting our crazy chicken, but forced to wait one half of an hour. We pull into a front parking spot closest to the door (so they can see us and know we are the ones waiting for our chicken).

It feels silly. Waiting. For chicken. At a place that serves nothing but chicken.

We see many people go in the drive thru and come out the other end. And leave. We wonder why they aren't made to wait. But then we realize...maybe we are the only dorks waiting. I guess we are the crazy ones. Although in my opinion, they certainly are crazy for not having any chicken!

Until I post again,

Cheers!

Update: South Beach

2009-02-03T09:40:00.000-08:00

It's been a bit over two weeks since I've posted so I am going to play a game called "catch up." It's a game I play quite frequently.

In a nutshell:

I am still on South Beach
I am still on Phase 2 (fruits and whole grains allowed)
I am still using Saturday as my cheat day
I have slipped a bit and cheated on non-Saturday days
I have weighed myself once since starting this diet so I have nothing to compare it to
I measured myself at the end of Phase 1, and have not measured myself since then

A bit more detail:

I am still on South Beach

I am determined to keep this up and see where it takes me. I need to add exercise to the equation, but for now, I have the eating thing down. I enjoy eating healthy because it makes me feel good. Not only that, but fast food has begun to taste horribly salty. I tried Taco Bell for the first time since starting South Beach on Saturday, and both Randy and I felt it was overpowered by sodium. We ate enough to satisfy our hunger, which wasn't very much. We threw the rest in the trash. I used to LOVE Taco Bell. Now, I say tacos and burritos made at home are much better.

I am still on Phase 2 (fruits and whole grains allowed)

Phase 2 is supposed to last until you lose the weight you desire. Once you reach your goal weight, Phase 3 (a maintenance phase), comes into play. I don't know how long it's going to take to reach my goal because I am beginning to see this as a lifestyle versus something I will only do for a temporary time. I like eating healthier. Also, my goal does not involve weight since weight can fluctuate with water and muscle, etc. So for now, I am just eating for health. And of course, to look better in my clothes.

I am still using Saturday as my cheat day

My cheat days are what keep me going. I can't be perfect all the time. And it's not like I stuff my face with candy and cake on Saturdays (okay, maybe I do sometimes!) But I enjoy being able to have a regular flour tortilla instead of a whole wheat one, or a bowl of icecream that I love so much. I don't want to give these things up altogether, but allowing myself just one day a week makes it easier to be good the rest of the time.

I have slipped a bit and cheated on non-Saturday days

Like I said, I'm definitely not perfect. For example, on Sunday the 18th, I blew my diet by eating tortilla chips. Lots of them. Then the following day for dinner, I ate a regular hamburger on a white bun with regular American cheese. Should've not eaten the tortilla chips, especially in the amount I consumed! The hamburger is okay as long as it's lean beef (like only 10% fat) which I'm not sure if it was. And I definitely shouldn't eat the white bun or the American cheese. Cheeses are okay as long as they're 2%. And lighter cheeses are better than yellows and oranges. For instance, swiss cheese beats cheddar. Plus, I ate a whole tray of mint lifesavers. And full sugar candy is a definite no-no.

So I slipped pretty good. I'm pleased though that I didn't allow these setbacks to discourage me from continuing. I just kick my slip-ups behind me, and move on.

I have weighed myself once since starting this diet so I have nothing to compare it to

I don't have a scale at home and I guess that's a good thing. Weight can fluctuate so much that a pound loss or a pound gain doesn't mean much. Especially when you start drinking more water and lifting weights. But I weighed myself at my sister Reesa's this past Saturday, and I was surprised. It was still high. And I know I've lost inches. So either, I was even heavier (egads!), or I just haven't lost any weight. Either way, I still have a long way to go. Weighing myself this once gave me more resolve to keep going and reminded me not to invest in a scale!

I measured myself at the end of Phase 1, and have not measured myself since then

Measurement is the way I am going to monitor my progress, since it's my size I'm more concerned with than how much I weigh. While I did measure myself at the end of Phase 1 (and there was proof that I lost some inches! hooray!) I haven't measured myself again. Yet.

While I have been walking and doing some ab exercises, it hasn't been consistent enough. I am convinced I need to implement an exercise plan around my diet to see more progress. I just haven't quite done that yet! :) So until then, I will hold off my measurements.

It has been one month since I began South Beach. Overall, I am pleased. I feel better and I am learning to enjoy healthier options. Now if I could just enjoy exercise... all would be well.

Until my next post,

Cheers!

Saturday = Cheat Day!

2009-01-17T11:07:00.000-08:00

To keep myself on top of eating healthy, I decided there needed to be one day a week where I can eat whatever I want. Saturday is that day!

Today is Saturday, but I don't want to cheat. I've worked so hard these past two weeks, and accomplished physical results, that I am afraid to jeopardize my efforts.

This morning, at the insistent pleas of my kids, I made homemade Belgian waffles. I had to take a trip to Trader Joes first to pick up some milk before I could prepare them. While there, I found some whole wheat flour tortillas and whole grain bread that have minimal sugar and will be great for dinners throughout the week. I also picked up some Cannelini Beans (white kidney beans) and chicken sausage for a healthy stew recipe I want to try.

When I got home, I started to make the waffles and decided to sneak in some whole wheat flour. The recipe calls for 1-1/2 cups flour, so I put in 1/2 cup of whole wheat and mixed it in with regular flour. I wanted to eat a waffle too, and I just can't bring myself to fully cheat! I guess that's a good thing. No one was the wiser to my healthy addition and they gobbled up the waffles.
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You don't need a belgian waffle maker to make waffles. But they are yummy!
Any waffle maker will work. Here is the recipe I used, taken from my Fanny Farmer Cookbook 13th Edition:

Waffles

2 eggs, well beaten

1 cup milk

3 TBSN vegetable oil (I used canola)

1-1/2 cups flour

3 tsp baking powder

2 tsp sugar

1/2 tsp salt

Mix the eggs, milk, and oil in a large bowl or pitcher. Stir in the flour, baking powder, sugar and salt and mix until blended Heat the waffle iron, brush it with some oil and pour in enough batter to just fill. Close and bake until the steaming stops and the waffles are crisp, tender, and brown.

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When the waffles were done, I gave my waffle a smidgen of real butter and dripped about a tablespoon of syrup on it. Normally, I would pour about a cup all over them, but I didn't want to intake that much sugar. I read the serving size of the Aunt Jemima syrup we had in the cupboard: 1/4 cup provides 32 grams of sugar. Wow! So a tablespoon is MUCH better. I drank a cup of milk with my one waffle and felt full.

I guess you could say I'm semi-cheating today...but still keeping myself in check. Hopefully, icecream doesn't enter the picture today, because when it comes to icecream, serving sizes don't exist!

Happy Saturday!

Until I post again,

Cheers!

South Beach Diet Phase 1

2009-01-16T20:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I completed Phase 1 of the South Beach diet. I am now entering into Phase 2. Hooray!

This is my second time readjusting my eating habits to eat the South Beach way. I tried it for the first time back in March 2008 at the advice of my doctor, who was mainly concerned with my high blood pressure, but also with my weight gain. She asked me if I thought I could change my lifestyle to bring down both my weight and my blood pressure. If I agreed and things improved, I would not have to go on blood pressure medication, which I really didn't want to do. I immediately went to my local library and picked up a copy of The South Beach Diet, by Arthur Agatston, M.D.

For those of you who have never heard about the South Beach Diet, here is a rundown of what it entails.

There are 3 phases:

Phase 1 : 2 weeks (or 14 days) ~ This is the strictest part of the plan. During Phase 1, there is no eating cereals, breads, pastas, rice, potatoes or fruit. Not even whole wheats are allowed. Alcohol is also off limits. During this phase the idea is that you are clearing sugars from your blood stream. Food converted to sugar is one of the main reasons for excessive weight gain in the stomach and hip region. For 2 weeks, the diet consists mainly of eggs, chicken, fish, other lean meats (such as 90% lean beef and sirloins). Cheese is okay as long as it's lowfat. Beans of all kinds are great, as are nuts. Vegetables of all kinds are allowed, (except for beets, carrots, and potatoes), as these are loaded with sugary starches. Desserts are acceptable, as long as they are low in sugar and about 75 calories. One of the things I ate was No Sugar Added Fudgsicles (which taste delicious and satisfy my chocolate cravings).

Phase 2: no time frame (until your weight is where you want it to be, or until you are down a few sizes, or whatever your particular goal may be) ~ The 2nd phase of the diet is where you add back in the fruits and the cereals (oh yes!), and the breads, pastas and rice. However! These must be WHOLE wheat or WHOLE grain. So if you want a bean burrito, make sure it's wrapped in a whole grain tortilla. Any food high in sugar is off limits during this phase. Did you know ketchup is high in sugar? I was bummed when I learned this. No ketchup during phase 2. :( It actually is amazing how many foods are actually loaded with sugar. I actually hunted for a low sugar pizza sauce so I could make homemade pizza bagels (on whole wheat bagels of course! )

Phase 3: maintenance stage ~ this stage is where you basically keep eating the way you've been, but now you have lost the weight you wanted to and your job is to maintain that weight, or size. There is room for cheating, (i.e. sweets, potatoes, white breads) but everything in moderation.

*If you are interested in more specific South Beach information, including recipes and food lists, check out http://www.southbeach-diet-plan.com/

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So I began this diet back in March of 2008, made it through Phase 1, and entered into Phase 2 with obvious weight loss. My clothes felt looser, people kept asking if I had lost weight, and I had more energy than usual. But unfortunately for me, March soon turned to June, summer came and weekends became party weekends with friends and family. The Saturday "no cheat" day I allowed for myself soon turned into Saturdays and Sundays...which turned into Mondays too. Before I knew it, I was back to eating regular tortilla chips, sugary cereals, and cookies galore. I was also back to the weekend margarita, a known sugar culprit, but oh so tasty and refreshing!

Since I slid off the plan back in the summer of 2008, I have wanted to start again because I know it works. It's hard in the beginning, but I've done it before so I knew I could do it again.

The beginning of a New Year seemed like the perfect time to start. I started on Jan. 2nd and made it through Phase one, just the other day on Thursday, Jan. 15th. I ate no breads, pastas, rice, potatoes, or fruits for two weeks. I drank no alcohol.

I refuse to weigh myself during this process, but instead took measurements for physical proof of change in my body.

*Beware ~ my initial measurements are frightening!

Jan 2: (At start of Phase 1)

Waist: 33-1/2 inches (I know...why do you think I'm doing all this!)

Hips: 42-1/2 inches (ugh!)

Thighs: 24 inches (yikes!)

Arms: 13 inches

*Note: I left out my bust measurements. Some things I intend to keep private! ;)

Jan 16: (After 2 weeks in Phase 1)

Waist: 32-1/2 inches (a loss of 1 inch!)

Hips: 41 inches (a loss of 1-1/2 inches!)

Thighs: 23 inches (a 1 inch loss!)

Arms: 12-3/4 inches (a 1/4 inch loss!)

Loss all around! I am so happy. Not to mention that this is with minimal walking for exercise. I did no weight lifting or excessive cardio during these 2 weeks. I can only handle so much at once. Yet I am left to wonder how many more inches I might've lost if I had begun a routine exercise plan during this time.

Now that I am entering into Phase 2, I intend to begin exercise to boost my efforts. I will post my progress, and do another measurement check in about a month.

Anyone ever tried South Beach, or any similar diets and weight loss plans? How did they work for you? Did you meet your goals? Any suggestions so I can better meet mine?

Until my next post,

Cheers!

In the Beginning

2009-01-15T21:12:00.000-08:00

My best intentions were to start this blog at the beginning of the new year. So cliche, right? So I decided to rebel instead, in classic Trish fashion, and start it mid-January.

I mainly started this blog to keep myself accountable for my goals. I am an ace at procrastination, so it helps to know others are onto me, whether I'm working hard or hardly working. I need the proverbial kick in the butt to keep myself going sometimes. And these goals are important to me. So I figured, why not share them? My goals fall into the following categories:

Health and Fitness ~ Not only do I need to lose weight, I am most interested in feeling better in my clothes, having more energy, and living to enjoy my grandchildren someday with a fit mind and body. I see a struggle-free clothes shopping session in my near future!

Music ~ I love it, want to hear it everyday, and feel I need it when times are not only rough, but when I want to have a great time. I want to experience as much music as possible while I am alive. I also have the ability to play guitar, but I want to drastically improve by years' end. Lots of practice required!

Writing and Literature ~ I am a book nerd. I can live without TV or even movies, but don't deny me a good book. I could live in a library. Not only that, but I love expressing myself with written words. I decided since it's something I like to do, why not write more often? It would be an added bonus if I could make money doing so. Write and submit Trish, write and submit.

I will be tracking my goals as I progress through them, not only for myself, but in the hopes that others will also share the goals they are working towards. Also, I do writing prompts from time to time to propel my writing. I will be posting these prompts, so if you feel the urge, don't hesistate to try out a prompt or two and share your personal results! It will be fun to see the various prompt writings!

Obviously, this blog wouldn't exist at all if it weren't for the gentle nudges received (almost daily) from Meesa. ;) Since the notion crossed my lips to the keyboard and onto my computer, Meesa's elated encouragement inspired me. She is actually the main reason I am doing this, because I know even if no one ever reads, shares, or comments, Meesa will. This definitely gives my blog purpose.

Thanks Meesa!

Until the next post,
Cheers!