Today, I Feel Fortunate...

Yep, it's Monday. And, I have to admit, Monday's are growing on me. Much attributed to one of my newest favorite shows - "Castle" -

And, I have a really cool possibility/opportunity going on. I feel very fortunate. I'll share later.
Cheers to my first official follower - Megan! Yipee! And, to those of you who have been "lurking" as they call it in the blog world - don't be afraid! Follow me! I'd love to hear from you! I promise I won't bite!
Another "new" favorite show

Well, not totally new - but new to me. We rented the first season through netflix and we're loving it. I can't believe they make a whole season out of one day! That's crazy. And even crazier is the fact that Jack Bauer doesn't lose his voice with all that yelling. When did Keifer Sutherland become so dramatic?
Can't wait for Idol tomorrow. I don't know what the theme is, but I'm sure Adam Lambert is going to be, in the words of Randy Jackson, "molten hot lava baby!" He rocked it last week - even though he was a little more subdued - which I really enjoyed - he has many facets.
Crafty post coming up. Just finishing a couple of things!

Words of Wisdom Wednesday

"On the road between the homes of friends, grass does not grow."

-Norwegian Proverb

Idol's back on tonight and I can't wait to see what Adam has in store for us. But, it is Motown night - not too excited about that. Guess we'll just have to wait and see what the Top 10 can bring.

Monday's and Tuesday's Must-See Tv

We've got a new favorite show - atleast for Monday nights - It's called "Castle." It's on a 9pm (central) on ABC. Nathan Fillion plays Castle, a murder mystery writer, who has linked up with Cate Becket, a hot, lady detective, after he was consulted on a crime scene exactly like one in his book.

It's kind of like "Bones" (I've heard, although I don't watch that one) with a tense relationship between Castle and Becket. Makes for some entertaining writing.

Onto Tuesday night...American Idol is taking a breather and is going to be on tomorrow and Thursday. So, I guess I'll have to settle for the catfights on Bravo's Housewives of NYC - not as good as Orange County, but I do have my favorite gals on this one. 9pm - I'm tuning in.

Need a pick-me up?

Economy and state of the world got you down? Try reading this news story and watching this:

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/JobClub/story?id=7154760&page=1

And, if all else fails, I was at Wal-Mart last night and jeans with zippers at the ankles are back!

Can't wait to buy a pair of those! What a terrible idea!

No gift wrap or gift bags? No problem!

My brother's birthday was a couple of weeks ago and I had the gift covered. I have to admit, it pains be to BUY wrapping paper or gift bags - only because there's a more crafty way to wrap and you can use something from your "home arsenal."

I take a brown paper shopping bag and a couple of 12 x 12 sheets of scrapbook paper to make a customized gift bag. It is super handy when you are looking for a gender friendly bag - I always have a hard time finding bags for guys.

Just cover both sides with a little tacky glue and apply your paper. I usually do one side and then the other so that I am sure it sticks!

Then, I holepunch the top and tie it with ribbon. Ta-da!

Opposite Ends of the Spectrum

Isn't it funny how attraction works? For example, this guy has been my #1 for quite a while. May I introduce, Brad Paisley...

And, I tend to be drawn to the darker featured guys. But, a new candidate has entered the race. May I introduce, American Idol and Wicked Star, Adam Lambert (and yes, this is him...)

My question is: How can I think that both these guys are totally hot? I mean, one takes the stage like a broadway star with "Wicked" awesome singing skills (ha! did you see what I did there? You see, Adam was in Wic...oh, never mind), has ever changing hair color, wears lots and lots of "guyliner" and is probably gay (FIGURES!!!). The other sings country music about guns, drinking beer and fishing, usually has a four o'clock shadow, and is never seen without a dogtag around his neck all while demonstrating the best guitar playing I have ever seen or heard. And, in person, he is 100 times better.
It's just funny how we are attracted to people who are EXACT opposites. Maybe it's the singing/musician thing.

This is a random thought, but it's Friday and I'm allowed. There are many blogs I follow (it's a wonder I have time for anything else). It's the human interest stories that get me everytime. This blog, Kelly's Korner, is one that tells a story of a couple that had fertility problems, finally conceived and just as they were about to celebrate the joyous birth of their daughter, discovered a major issue. But, their faith in God and the countless prayers of blog readers, family and friends provided a miracle. Here's Kelly's post from today, which I thought was great. She's leaving the working world for a way better gig - being a full-time mom.

Get out and enjoy the weekend. Spring is upon us!

Words of Wisdom Wednesday - yes I know it's Thursday!

"Feelings are the connective tissue of true friendship" - Joel D. Block

(Better late than never!)

Is Your Couch Meowing?

This press release was put out by the AP...

Sofa surprise: Cat found inside $27 used couch
Homecoming for kitty who was accidentally donated along with furniture

SPOKANE, Washington - The mysterious mewing in Vickie Mendenhall's home started about the time she bought a used couch for $27.
After days of searching for the source of the noise, she found a very hungry calico cat living in her sofa.
The Spokesman-Review reported that her boyfriend, Chris Lund, was watching TV on Tuesday night and felt something move inside the couch. He pulled it away from the wall, lifted it up and found the cat, which apparently had crawled through a small hole on the underside.
Mendenhall contacted the store where she bought the couch, but it had no information on who donated it. So she took the cat to the animal shelter where she works, so it could recover, and contacted media outlets in hopes of finding the owner.
Sure enough, Bob Killion of Spokane showed up to claim the cat on Thursday after an acquaintance alerted him to a TV story about it.
Killion had donated a couch on Feb. 19, and his 9-year-old cat, Callie, disappeared at about the same time.

Words of Wisdom Wednesday

"The supreme happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves."

-Victor Hugo

Now THIS is good

These meals are fabulous! They are a little on the expensive side - about $7.00. But, compared to what you would spend going out, they are a deal! And, if you are tired of throwing out leftovers after the 3rd time you've had them, these are great because they are just about the right size for 2 people.

They are located in the freezer section. We like the lasagna one the best.

It's a rainy day. Again.

It's been raining for about two days. And grey and blah. See?

So, I have been doing some indoor projects, even though spring is almost here and it was actually "spring ahead" today and we lost an hour of sleep.

My project has something to do with this:

And this:

And this:

I'll share as soon as I am finished. But here's something I finished today:

It's an oldie but a goodie. And, most importantly, my husband's favorite dessert.
Yellow Streusel Cake:

-1 package yellow cake mix

-1 lrg. instant yellow pudding

-1/2 c. oil

-3/4 c. water

-4 eggs

-1 tsp. vanilla

-1 tsp. butter flavor

Streusel:

-1/2 c. nuts

-1/4 c sugar

-2 tsp. cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350. Grease bundt or 9 x 13 pan. In a large bowl, blend all ingredients (down to 1 tsp. butter flavor) for two minutes. Put half the batter in pan and top with half of streusel mix. Put rest of batter in pan and top with rest of streusel mix. Bake for about 40 minutes - or until knife comes out clean. Cool and, if using a bundt pan, turn out on cake plate. The cake can be topped with white icing (powdered sugar, milk, vanilla and dash of salt.)

Spring has sprung...kind of.

Here in Illinois, it is 68 degrees today. You may be thinking..."Spring is here!" I know I am. But, hold your horses...the forecast for tomorrow and Sunday is 40 and rainy. Why is it that the best days are always those when you are stuck inside...working?

We are trying to plan a spring/summer vacation and boy, if you've got the money to spend right now, resorts are offering a heck of a deal. I've been poking around all inclusive resorts like Sandals and Club Med. 50% off TOTAL vacation packages. Folks - get them while they're hot. But, along with the warm destination is also another item dreaded by almost all American women...

Yep- shopping for a bathing suit. Subjected to the unkind mirrors and lighting of dressing rooms around the country, we shell out about $100 for torture. And, being that I'm not completely 100% back to normal yet, this should be fun (sarcasm, sarcasm, sarcasm.)

Switching gears, warmer weather also makes me think of outside activities - like gardening. I saw this idea in Martha Stewart's "Living" this month:

There's nothing better than a homegrown or garden tomato. But, seeing as our gargantuan septic field leaves virtually no room for a garden, I might just try my hand at this.

I've been working on some craft projects lately to try and preoccupy myself. I'll share as soon as they're finished.
Hope you are enjoying some warm weather where you are!

Off The Grid

I've been off the grid...We had a very busy SuperBowl weekend with about 12-15 guests. It was fun, but a lot of work.
More later!

Wednesday TV Recap

This pretty much sums up what I think of the last night's American Idol Auditions:

Really Fox? Can we just cut to the chase and get rid of all these weeks of talentless hacks? I absolutely loved the girl that they made leave and come back. Now SHE is a natural talent. I can't wait to see how she does. Her version of "Bubbly" was as whimsy and free as the original - Bravo. Now, can we please just get to Hollywood week?

And, I'm a day late, but let's talk about "The Bachelor." I have to admit, I had it on the DVR and fast-forwarded most of the episode. I think this week should have been titled, "Could everything in this episode BE more awkward?" Let's start with the General Hospital group date...and everyone getting to witness everyone else making out with Jason. For starters, when you really want to kiss someone, as Melissa pointed out, IT'S NOT ACTING! And Megan basically mauled the poor guy...yuck!

Later that night included just about every girl breaking down into tears. I hear if you portray yourself as an emotional mess, guys love it!

Next up, the awkward ballroom dancing dance-off between Stephanie and Nikki. It was like Sandy and Cha-Cha fighting over Danny in "Grease" - just a little more sophisticated. I couldn't believe Jason picked Stephanie over Nikki. Not that there was a romantic connection with either girl, but Stephanie obviously got the rose because she's a fellow parent.

Then, not the "most dramatic rose ceremony ever," as I hear that's next week, but when it came down to it, Jason sent 3 ladies packing. Nice work. We are finally getting somewhere! But, I have to wonder how ABC dealt with this in terms of the episode scheduling...Can't you just hear the producers?..."What?!? Oh great! Now we are going to have to come up with another spinoff week to fill space! What do you think we should call it? "

Before the Final Rose?

Actually, Jason's Not Going To Pick Anyone?

The Last Stand: DeAnna vs. the Remaining 5?

I just can't believe this was a spur of the moment decision. In any event, let's summarize the lady's that were kicked to the curb:

First up to be denied a rose, Megan. Sorry, Megan. You're just plain mean and that's the bottom line. I thought she might be one of those psycho ones that tries to comeback and convince Jason to give her another shot.

Next up Lauren. Hey Lauren, just a little girl to girl advice, if you tell a guy that if you don't get something, "you're gonna be pissed," you can pretty much bet your pretty blue peepers that he's a goner - No one likes ultimatums. Especially a guy who has atleast 5 other girls to choose from.

And last but not least, poor Shannon. Time to set your stalker radar on someone else. Have a nice day.

I can't wait until they bring back DeAnna. And, I'm sticking with my original prediction of Jillian, although she was not a big player in this last episode. But, Melissa and Molly continue to keep gaining ground. If they are the final three, it's gonna be a doo-zie!

Hope you all are keeping cozy and warm and enjoying primetime as much as I am right now. I hear "Ugly Betty" is teetering on being moved to another night - ratings aren't so good. I've looked at the schedule to see if there's anything new that I should try...any suggestions?

Sunrise, Sunset

This was yesterday's sunrise. The high yesterday was about 30 degrees. Today, we'll be lucky to make a high of 10 - I will NOT be taking any outdoor photos today.

Minus 15 Teeth...

Poor little Roscoe. Last week he had 15 teeth removed. Needless to say, he wasn't feeling too hot. He snuggled up on the couch for a couple of days. But he's feeling much better now.

Last Night's Idol

Pretty good dawg - but I have 2 comments:

1. Simon, you are going to let Bikini Girl pass with flying colors but debate on the guy who may/may not be too "theatrical" sounding? He's in the cast of "Wicked" for gosh sakes!

2. Out of all those people, only 12 go to Hollywood? Oh my. That must have been a long day...

Tuesday Recap...so far.

Today, I watched a historic event on television. Barack Obama was sworn in as the new President of The United States. It is monumental for our country. A symbol of great strides in equality. And, I have no expectations for him as a leader. Change. That's what I think this country is getting. Good or bad, we'll have to wait and see, I think. CNN said today that the average American is giving him 2 years to make something happen. I think he will fall victim to criticism far before that time. Good luck, Mr. O. You'll need it.

Love this pic from Vanity Fair - as Lincoln and Kennedy (I think!) supervise his work. Your days of taking it easy with your feet up on the desk are over, my friend. Time to try and clean up this mess of a country.

Onto more important things (JUST KIDDING!) - The Bachelor was on last night. My first comment is: Really. How many 2 hour episodes can we watch before we want to toss the tv out the window? Especially when it is getting pretty painful with all the claws coming out. Natalie deserved to go. Her reaction to dismissal was so reflective of what married life would be like with her - throw a tantrum, why don't you?! "Whatever!" (Those are her words, not mine.)
Okay, I think the charity thing was really cool. But, I would never feel comfortable making a "bust" of myself with some guy I barely know (no pun intended!) and ON TELEVISION FOR THE ENTIRE COUNTRY TO SEE! Let's get real. It's basically being naked.
Shannon got the sympathy rose - I think she's definitely next to go with all these dramatic crying bouts. The poor girl is an emotional mess.
As I've stated before, Jason is about a 7 on my scale (and the way he's checking out all the chests on these girls is not helping my opinion of him. But, I guess if they put them out there - AHEM!, then what's a guy to do?). But, I'm feeling sorry for this poor guy with all the drama going on.

Jason, let me help. I will spare you about 3 weeks of painful 2 hour episodes and pick you a winner:

Jillian. Although Melissa (the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader) is some stiff competition. I'm glad Erica is gone - now kick Megan to the curb and lose that DRAMA!
And really, how could you really have a conversation with someone and a moment where you "feel a connection" like this?

No wonder the show hasn't had much success.

Have a great inaugural Tuesday!

Moody Monday Morning

I'm labeling this post "moody Monday morning," because this is a pet peeve of mine. Ok peeps, let's review:
This, is a red light.

It means "STOP!" It means that there's probably going to be someone else coming through the intersection at anytime. It does NOT mean, "I know you've been on the road for a half hour and hit the last four red lights, so it's okay to blow this one," or "You, in the fancy-schmanzy million-dollar car, are excluded from all road rules and signals, including this red light. Go on through." I know, it's difficult to talk on your cell phone, adjust the DVD player for the kids in the back and balance the mug of steaming hot coffee from the McDonald's drive-thru all at once, but for gosh sakes, you ARE driving. Pay attention! Gunning it through an intersection could possibly KILL someone!

Maybe it's the complete lack of courtesy this shows for other drivers on the road. And, I understand that everyone, now and then, thinks they can make it through before the light changes from yellow to red. This is understandable - I am guilty of this. But, there are drivers who dart in and out of traffic and manuever like they've got their head up you-know-where and then proceed to fly through a red intersection. What is their deal?!?!?!?!

I'm so annoyed. Hope you are having a better start to your week than I am.

The Black Apple/Martha Stewart Dolls

Here's the beginning of The BlackApple Doll project that I saw on The Martha Stewart show about six months ago. It may be a little hard to envision, but this is the front of the doll and the hair, made of felt, is hand-stitched on. What's so great about this little project is that each doll turns out like a one-of-a-kind homemade creation and you can be so thrifty when you make them.

I actually found everything I needed to make these little darlings in one of my favorite spots at Jo-Ann Fabrics - THE REMNANT BIN! Here is a video tutorial, pattern and instructions if you want to try this little craft out. And, you can get really artsy with these by adding ruffles and embellishments to them. Plus, since the face is drawn on with marker, there are no buttons to chew off or any of that jazz.
I'll post a pic when they are done!
Have a good day!
natalie