Worst Title Ever?

Post # 1102 must rank as the worst title I've ever come up with--good grief. I'm tempted to change yesterday's title, but then again, failures help us to improve. Or, at least that's the theory.....

So, where were we? Baxter, that's where we were. Not only did Baxie have a limp, but as an afterthought I sent along the blanket he sleeps on at night because it had what appeared to be grains of rice on it which stymied the both of us. Well, good thing Bruce took it because I'm not sure we would have ever known that our poor little doggie had a TAPEWORM! No doubt you don't want to know anything more about it, and frankly, neither do I, but I will tell you that there is no threat to our health (or our guests!), and after taking the two pills yesterday evening it should pose none to Baxter anymore.

Thinking about dogs--I'm posting this as a public service announcement. These folks need your help if you live anywhere near me! Both signs have remained all over our area for nearly a week now. I imagine both owners must be frantic by now.

In other pet news, it seems as if Paul has found his land tortoise, or so I hope, because the sign is gone.

While looking through my pictures, I realized I took very few during the holidays--not a single one of Bruce, which is just fine by him. I did, however, take a few of my sons and those they love. Jonathan and Alissa are watching Bruce open one of his gifts on Christmas morning in this one:

Does anyone have more beautiful skin than Alissa? I'm typically not the jealous type, however,  I'm not ashamed to admit I'm seriously jealous of her glow!

Bill, Fallon, Dave, and Michelle came over around lunch time for their gifts. Remember how I was working on the quilt, going so far as to guesstimate the number of stitches? I was so excited for Bill to open his gift, only to have him pull it out and wonder what it was! Good thing I have a thick skin! Explaining how I anticipated him snuggling on his couch with it, he then asked if I made it. Why yes son, I did.

Calling him this afternoon, following my shopping spree at William's Sonoma courtesy of the gift card he gave me, he told me, in fact, he did just as I'd hoped during last evening's chilly weather.

The living room was packed with presents and people. Oh yeah--and food. Bruce's sister somehow remembered how much he loves a summer sausage from Hickory Farms at Christmas time, sending a gift pack on Christmas eve. Bruce prepared a plate of goodies:

Opening gifts seemed to go on forever!

My stylish daughter-in-law insisted I open both gifts, even though one is for my upcoming birthday!

There's just something about a Tiffany box isn't there? An adorable mug in what else? Tiffany blue. The dress in the LP box is a gorgeous shade of coral. Happy days!

Folks who live up North can hardly imagine we spent some of our time outdoors while at Lisa's house, but we did. Michelle and Fallon looking pretty.

It's usually a challenge to get David to allow me to take his photograph, but after some minor pleading, he consented.

Jonathan and Bill were easily convinced:

So, there you go--you've now seen all four sons within two days of posts. Who knows how long until this happens again. I'm so mad at myself for not taking their photograph together!! What, pray tell, was I thinking?  Obviously, I wasn't.

Lisa and Danny both love the outdoors; creating inviting outdoor spaces is something they work very hard on. I forgot to ask Lisa where she got this cute birdbath, but I know she loves her turtles. Then, there is the bird feeder and house...

Too cute! The steps in the middle of the photograph lead gently down to the pond behind their home. Our nephew Rich, who is quite the doting Dad, holds his first born Spencer:

Spencer is the cutest little boy I've seen in ages. And good. I never once got that lucky---all of my boys were quite the handful! Spencer knew just what to do with the puzzle we gave him:

That darling look of concentration just kills me.

Another Christmas has come and gone--where does the time go?

Let's see--only 6 months until I start the shopping and quilt making again. Dave and Michelle have been informed they are next!

Mostly it's been quiet around here today--Bruce went to check on his Lake City jobs, while Jonathan and Alissa's friend Mike came by earlier to collect them--shopping and tonight's bowl game at the Citrus Bowl are in their plans. Me, I'm getting the cold.

Practice, Practice, Practice

For five years now I've been taking photographs most every day. To some folks that may sound crazy and it probably is, however, I've been on a learning curve. Even though I know how to take photographs, just as an athlete practices every day, so do I. A slight exaggeration in the previous sentence--I'm still pretty clueless on how the camera actually works!!

Nonetheless, I've managed to amass a huge amount of photographs of a multitude of subject matter. Seriously huge. Truth be told, I have no real idea how many I have, but believe me, it is a lot!! Which actually may work in my favor if everything goes well with Sun Dance Graphics. Yesterday I received the contract which is having a going over by an attorney friend of Matthew. WHO CAN BELIEVE THIS IS HAPPENING TO ME????? I can't. Oh my, oh my!

Between the Etsy business, my every weekend gig, the new car and vacation, my blogging schedule has been so erratic for which I apologize. As well, Bill and Dave turned 33 on Sunday with little fanfare I might add. When your children are all grown up as mine are, gift giving becomes somewhat difficult. Adding to that, when your children earn more money than the parents things get very tricky indeed. That said, this year both Bill and David had a gift in mind. We are renewing David's membership in a card grading group--don't ask me the details they are so crazy.

Bill, on the other hand, wanted a palm tree for his front courtyard. I knew just the place--Palm Gardens where we purchased all our landscaping plants when we remodeled. Because Bill is taking the week off from work, he and I drove out there in the new car. I say car but really it's a big boy. Sort of like a taller version of the old station wagon I drove when all the boys were at home. For those of you worrying about the gas mileage, it's not great but it is better than many vehicles of the same size. Moreover, I drive so little that it should be of no real consequence. Feel better?  I knew you would.

They had the palm but couldn't put it in the ground for two more weeks. Bill, taking matters into his own hands, rented a truck and put it in the ground himself today with the help of two of the maintenance men from his condo complex. Why would he need help you ask? The palm weighed 600 pounds!!!! I ran over earlier this afternoon to take a look:

Bill is wearing the black shirt on the right. Once a mother, always a mother. The temperature today was 94 and black is not the color of shirt to be wearing in the sun. "Bill honey, can you change into a white shirt?" I know, I know, he's 33!!

Monday afternoon Matt called to catch up. This is one funny picture here:

Four layers, or make that five? The blue is my computer background, the orange writing on the left is the blog dashboard, Picasa is next over that and then Face Time over that. Note the large glasses Matthew is wearing--the next trend and you saw it here!! Finally, there is your favorite blogger taking the photograph! Tom is in the background on the right looking very spiffy indeed. The two of them were helping me with Etsy ideas. Is it any wonder I'm a bit of a crazed woman these days??

My poor Bruce has an infected leg, so much so that he had to go to the doctor for antibiotics which are slow in doing their work. I took this photo of him at the market on Sunday.

That's a cute little shirt he's wearing that I found at Ross. I was hanging and he was resting his leg. Lately he's not had to travel much, amazing I know, but this week he left on Monday. As I type he's heading home from the airport. I'm anxious to see how his leg is coming.

I've not shown you the world's cutest dog for a while have I? The scarf lets you know he's just been groomed:

Take a look at that orchid I mentioned which is going plum crazy!

It was so top heavy with blooms that I had to wrap it a bit around the umbrella pole.

When the dog groomer was here last Thursday she had some kind things to say about our home which is always nice to hear. I think one reason people like our place is because there is a lot to look at.

A crazy mix of things, new, old, organic and whatever suits our fancy--that's mostly what we surround ourselves with and it seems to work. The morning sun always lights this table up. It seems as if the current bird nest has been abandoned so very soon you'll be seeing it. Still no baby sighting which worries me some.

When I visited the Whiteds two weeks ago I came home with a plant stand covered with rust. Well, that's not entirely true, some of it was, some of it was weary. Taking it out in the yard, I primed it and then spray painted it white.

Ten pot holders in all! Although I looked for some plants to fill it all up nice and pretty, I couldn't make up my mind just yet.

All in all, it's nice to be busy, just not this busy. Be sure and remind me of that when I don't have much to do will you?

Bruce is home, his shin looks pretty bad, and he's soaking it in the swimming pool as I type. He had a mole or something come off, and somehow, infection set in. Two full days of antibiotics haven't changed it much, but hopefully, tomorrow will be a turning point. Unpacking his suitcase, he handed me the USA Today. I said, please no article on Trayvon! He knows me well--a lengthy piece on Anne Tyler, one of my most favorite authors of all time. I can't wait to read it.

Maybe it was serendipity, don't know, but this article from the New York Times seems like it was meant for me. The recent developments around here are not in the same league as the authors but it is nice to have someone else recognize the work you've been doing. Thank you Sarah. Perhaps she will be my publisher?

I'll keep you posted....
Gail

p.s. No editing today--dinner time.

All in the Family

Is it possible for a tree to be part of the family? I'm thinking yes, especially one as lovely as our new live oak tree. Check it out:

 

If you click on the photo you will see Baxter doing a little morning calisthenics on the driveway. Which, by the way, I've been meaning to talk to you about. Seriously, I've learned something quite useful from our little puff of fur. Stretching. Yes, indeed, each morning when we, by we I mean Baxter and I,wake up, he stretches all his limbs in the chair where he sleeps and I begin stretching in the bed. I didn't always stretch. No, it took a dog to teach me that if I stretch, I will bound out of bed! Try it, you might just be impressed with this technique yourself. But I digress....

I also wanted to show you a view from the other side because there may be those amongst you who've been wondering what we did with our beloved stag horn fern. Ta Da!

Beloved fern?   Are you kidding Gail?    Would I kid you? 

In the first year of our marriage, which for those of you who are counting is 37+ years now, one of our neighbors began selling very small stag horn ferns mounted to a board. We bought one! We babied that fern.  Bruce even went so far as to make a special box to nest it in during our five day drive to California. It grew. And grew. And grew. During Hurricane Charley, the limb that held it, came crashing down, smashing the daylights out of the fern. Although the corner of the house was damaged, my main concern was the fern. It took Bruce and three neighbors to hoist it onto a new branch back then. Seven years later, I imagine it weighs in the neighborhood of five hundred pounds. Before they took the tree down, Jody moved the fern via his bucket truck to hang between the pines. Yes, my friends, a plant can be family.

Actually, once they began digging the hole for the tree I left to go to the store because they said it would take some time. My sister Nancy has been giving me makeup advice, which may sound a little silly to you, but this 57 year old is fairly ignorant when it comes to makeup. Nancy recommended a foundation aptly title "Photo Ready" by Revlon. After receiving my telephone consultation, I wanted to take advantage of the sale at Walgreens. Here's the loot:

Normally, unlike both my husband and my sister Maureen, I'm not much of a Walgreens shopper, however, you would never know it from my purchases; somehow I managed to spend $70 there! When I returned, the tree was in place with no one in sight. I called the nursery learning that I was to fill the berm twice a day with water for at least three weeks. Just today the awful thought of it dying occurred to me, something obviously I'm going to be doing my best to avoid! I'm more than delighted you can imagine that I can see it out of both windows and even from the kitchen. Did I mention the lovely spring green leaves? Beautiful. Now we can do something about both the bed and the grass. One thing at a time...

Yesterday morning was our bridge get together with eight ladies showing up. Fun my friends, very fun.

What I should have been doing besides playing bridge was shopping for groceries for a very special dinner for the twins. Sadly, Melanie was not able to be here because she was at the barn late, but Bill, Dave and Michelle joined us for what I hope they thought was a yummy meal. A good many of you know that cooking brings me joy, so stirring the roux for the gumbo was no problem, however, I won't lie, I kept looking at the clock wondering when twenty five minutes would have passed. Actually, Bill was playing a gig later which meant he had to leave by 8:00. With Bruce just landing at 6, arriving home by 6:30, I had a short window to work with. 

The Menu

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

White Rice

Fried Okra

French Bread 

Coconut Macroons

Because everything was made by yours truly, the cooks amongst you can imagine that the menu required some serious time management. I suppose I should note that neither Bill or Dave likes cake, thus no birthday cake on the menu. Leftovers tonight!

Oddly enough last week on Bill and Dave's actual birthday I began thinking about a specific picture of the two of them dressed identically near their one year birthday. 32 years ago having twins was a rare occurrence, especially identical twins. I will NEVER forget the time a woman ogling the twins in their stroller asked me, "Aren't you glad you didn't have Siamese twins?" I was so shocked I had no snappy comeback! Can you imagine if I'd been clever enough to say, "Why no, I was really hoping for them."

Boy did I get sidetracked! Okay, so about the picture. After our trip last weekend, Bruce dug out a fishing book that he'd not opened for years and years. Handing me the above picture he said, "Look at this." The exact picture I was thinking of! I always loved this one of them in their identical outfits which came from a Mother of Twins club I belonged to during their first couple of years. There was no shame in buying and selling worn clothing. We definitely had our financial struggles back then so it was a God send! Mostly though, I didn't dress them alike, hoping they would form their own identity. Only worked up to a point though. "You Can't Fool Mother Nature" was an old commercial tagline--so very true.

While cooking Jonathan called. Yeah! He was in the midst of registering the MINI Cooper in Texas as well as renewing his driver's license. Complicated but he got it done. While talking I learned that Wednesday was his last day in the Law Department at UT. We are all hoping another longer assignment comes up shortly. 

Saving some very exciting news for last, we now have our airline tickets to London booked for July 1!!! Using Facetime, I spoke to both Matt and Tom this afternoon, kicking around ideas for our ten day stay. So many options....I'm going the old fashioned route and buying a guide book a little later this evening. I've got one for London but we're planning on venturing out of the city this trip. Tom, of course, has done some traveling and his input will prove to be invaluable I suspect. We got into a discussion about the difference between "moors" and "dales." I believe I'll sign off just now so I can figure out what the heck those terms mean. 

Happy Weekend!

Tuesday Already?

I began yesterday morning with all good intentions of getting to my blog, however, first I had to put together the album from the market which I hadn't gotten to Sunday evening.  Just before doing so, I checked Matt's blog finding the stunning video of Mary Chapin Carpenter singing one of my favorites. Seriously, I love that song. It makes me cry each and every time I hear it and this time was no different. If you've not heard it before I suggest you take a listen. Plus, she looks just lovely.

These days I do laundry on Monday. It seems to move to a different day every two months or so depending on Bruce's travel schedule. Hanging laundry is a simple pleasure now that my space is so, so nice.

Most days I go about my business without a list, but yesterday was an exception. I needed focus, which my list provided, however, blogging never had a chance what with all I needed to accomplish. We were super excited to have Steve and Barb over for dinner. Steve may be Bruce's best friend at work, but he never, and I mean never accepted any invitations in the past. Now that he's got a wonderful girlfriend, she must have been the one to agree. In any case, he'd not been here for maybe ten years, so we were anxious to have them as our guests. What with the ongoing warm weather, we naturally ate outside with torches flickering, pool light flashing, and you know, the whole ambiance thing...

The grass saga continues......Bruce, has taken it to new heights as innumerable promises for replacement go unmet. Saturday morning he made this sign for our yard, sending it to not only the newspaper, but 100 or so of his closest friends. When S & B arrived Steve suggested taking it to a new level with night lighting. Bruce was all over that idea:

It's been amusing watching people slow their cars to read it, not to mention walkers and cyclists. Now, if only it will shame them into keeping their promise!

Saturday morning Roger, the irrigation guy, not to be confused with Mr. Roger, the printer, arrived to complete the planting. I labored over this area, finally deciding on flax lilies to compliment the jatropha plants. I am super pleased with the outcome. Here's a couple of looks:

I was thinking yesterday that the more stuff you have, the more you have to maintain. I, for one, am thrilled my house is not TOO big! The pool cleaner is on the glider awaiting return to the pool in another week or so which won't be a moment too soon as the leaves begin their annual descent into the pool. Apparently the finish needs time to cure before using it once again.

While finishing my preparations for our company, Matt phoned for our bi-weekly chat. Unfortunately, in retrospect, I realized I monopolized the conversation, hardly letting him get a word in edgewise.  As such, he never got to mention this:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/5500/5137215141/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+5500+%28fiftyfivehundred.org%29 Imagine! If I'd been him it would have been the first words out of my mouth! Furthermore, the photo he used is one I took, maybe two years ago, so that made me happy as well! Our man in London my friends. As well, the reason he posted the video of MCC was because he saw her on Saturday night, her first gig in London in over ten years. His concert review--outstanding. Of course, you knew that already I'm sure.

In other son news, Jonathan and Alissa are heading to Austin. Not for a vacation again, but for a new life. Naturally, I'm anxious about the move, however, I'm doing my best to see it as an adventure. You're only young once.

As well, last week I mentioned picking Dave up from the airport. What I didn't tell you at the time was that he was attending a SunTrust conference reserved for their top 100 investment specialists. Dave was right up there.  Please forgive me for making a small exception in my bragging policy.

Book reviews on this site have been few and far between of late, mostly because the remodel/art shows have claimed much of my time. Secondly, most of the novels I've begun have not been engaging enough to keep me reading. The last compelling novel I read was American Youth.

Yes, it is Tuesday already and as such time to get ready for the Polasek. In fact, I just realized I need to get ready ASAP. So long for now.....

It's Almost Over

College football season seems to go on forever these days, what with bowl games stretching over weeks instead of days, but tonight the game we've all been waiting for is finally here. May the best team win, or something like that. I suppose I should root for Texas rather than the hated SEC team, Alabama, but the truth is I was so darn impressed with Mark Ingram that I'd love to see him put up big numbers. Whether we can actually stay up late enough to see the game's conclusion, is yet to be determined....

Every job has it's challenges including the one I'm currently engaged in. It seems like it would be super easy and in many ways it is, however, I'm still learning so much about having a business that at times I'm very unsure of myself. Currently I'm feeling as if I've run out of ideas, maybe to never take an engaging photo again, thus I have my windowsill of inspiration.Try not to focus on the dirty window will you? Instead, notice the darling carved rooster Matt gave me for Christmas, the sole survivor of my birthday flowers from my mother in law, the corks, and finally the stack of wooden boxes on the left. In descending order they contain a compass, a map marker, and some chisels, all antiques from either our families. It seems as if I've been so busy either selling or holiday activities that I've not done anything special with them just yet. But, I might. In fact, I guess I should say I think I can, I think I can, I think I can...

Phillipe Petit operated that way. Last night, thanks to Jonathan and Alissa's gift of six months of Netflix, we were mesmerized by his story in this . Simply amazing! He never said never that's for sure!

As all of my family knows, I'm a nut for citrus juice. Growing up, my boys knew never to finish the orange juice if I hadn't had mine first. That sounds kinda mean when I write it, but believe you me, I shared plenty--just not my juice. It's the first thing I do in the morning so it pleases me to no end to have fresh tangerines to juice. Voila! A darling juice bottle as well as an inspiring juice glass from Ruth and Pat!

So, yesterday morning, after having my juice of course, I paid my sales tax for the last quarter, put an order together for Mr. Roger, and decided to try and get my spring show schedule together. I'd heard that there was a good show in Lake Wales, a smallish community (known for this:(Bok Tower), about 50 miles south of here. Upon further inspection I discovered that the due date for entering was YESTERDAY! Hmmm....what to do? what to do?

You've guessed what I did, haven't you? Need I say more?

Saw this on my way:

Amazingly the terrazo floors are still there. Not to mention the sad little office with the cable tv sign still in the window. You get to LW on US27, what used to be a major highway down the middle of the state, dotted with little motels and fruit stands for all the Northern tourists coming to escape the winter. Not so much anymore, in fact, in many ways it is like turning the clock back seeing how things used to be before Mr. Disney decided to come to town. I love how this sign proclaims they have air conditioning, pool, and carpet. How are expectations have changed!

Now on to some Peck son related news:

Although I was planning on telling you about Baxter's misdeed, Matthew beat me to it. Here's his account with a decidedly happier ending then what we'd heard before his departure, Baxter Decides Glasses are Meant to be a Snack.

And then there's this:
Exit the Ride
So proud and pleased that the band is enjoying some local success these days.

It sure has been cold around these parts this week, with the overnight freezing temperatures expected to continue on through the weekend. Am I a glutton for punishment, or what?

There's a lot to digest in this post isn't there? Just a brief thank you to all (I know there are some out there!) who take a part of their busy day to keep up with me, you are much appreciated. :>)

Generation Gap

One thing about hanging around with our sons that really stands out is there is definitely a generation gap. It's not just a 70's idea.

We are of the early to bed, early to rise mentality--they are just the opposite.

I use a phone book for numbers--they think I'm crazy.

We make the bed--they think, why bother?

Eating is not loaded with guilt and anxiety--we eat what we want.

Neither Bruce nor I text--how old fashioned!

I could care less about carrying my cell phone around--WHAT am I thinking????

The computer is not full of mystery for them--it's a world of possibility.

Work is just a way to make money, not a way of life.

Gift cards are the way to go--what's with shopping especially for someone? (Not true for all of our sons!)

Wrapping paper?? Are you kidding??

Multi-tasking is completely normal for them. I mostly concentrate on one thing at a time.

Some of this I'm being silly about, some not so much. Matt purchased a domain name and made a website (Out & About Photography) for me in all of about three hours. I watched in awe. The thing is, I love how young people are fearless, sallying forth with such confidence. Some days I wonder if I used to be like that...

Probably I was. Imagine having four children to care for at the age of 29--unthinkable these days. Back then I woke each morning with so much responsibility that I rarely thought about it. I just did what I needed to do.

Truth be told, I'm pretty proud of how our sons turned out. That may sound silly, but if I can write about photography successes, I suppose it's ok every now and then to voice how I feel about our boys. Boys, not that is outdated!!!

The weather today was spectacular, cold and dry, with a brilliant blue sky. We took advantage of it by cleaning up our yard which has been sorely neglected since I let the yard guys go. Bruce did all the hard work, while I mowed, picking up bags of leaves as I went. It looks super for now anyway.

He then got the canoe ready for a fishing excursion at the lake down the street. Here's Mr. Baxter ready to go:Not even a hit..

It's supposed to be pretty cold at the market tomorrow; I guess we'll see...
----------------
Listening to: The Maccabees - Young Lions
via FoxyTunes

Oh Happy Day!

So much to be grateful for today, where shall I start?

Here's a view of the living room in the fading afternoon light with the tree ablaze with white lights. This year, instead of Bruce and I doing it together, we opted to go out with Dana after the market, leaving the decorating to me. How I remember those days when there were many hands to decorate! Several memories always flood back while doing the tree. One, a real standout, is the year Bill and Dave were getting close to two years old. They were so darn inquisitive (pc for they got into EVERYTHING!), that Bruce built a large wooden box and bolted the tree down for safekeeping. Secondly, the year Matt was nine, meaning the twins were six, and Jonathan was two, we moved on December 16. Can you imagine that? We were young ourselves! Anyway Matt insisted we needed a tree; once we purchased one, he proceeded to decorate it himself. Crazy huh?

Some of you know this, some don't. When the boys were quite small, I read somewhere about a family whose Christmas morning tradition sounded like something I'd like to adopt. Basically it works like this: last one up gets to open the first present, followed in succession by those who got up earlier. As a child I remember dragging our parents out of bed as early as 6, something I was hoping not to repeat as a parent myself. What a blessing it was, becoming quite a contest between the boys to see who could stay in bed the longest! Isn't it something how you read something somewhere and incorporate it into your own life? Off topic, but once I read that Madonna used to love to clean the lint screen on her dryer. Don't ask me where I read this please because that I can't tell you. What I can tell you is that almost every time I clean the lint screen that silly thought comes into my head. If only I could remember important things!!!

Ok, so what does this have to do with my title? Well, if you will please, notice the lovely bouquet of roses on the coffee table, a gift from Angela for shooting their pictures.

That is small potatoes compared to what I'm fixing to write. David called and guess what???? In arbitration the lawsuit was thrown out!!!!! Additionally his record is expunged! Isn't that fantastic!!! I knew in my heart David has only his client's best interests at heart, and would not willingly do anything wrong. Although he claims not to have any spirituality anymore, almost fifteen years of Sunday school classes are still buried in there somewhere. Not to mention, he wouldn't want to disappoint his dad for anything. Oh happy day! (For those opposed to the overuse of exclamation marks, please forgive me, however they are the only thing I have to convey my excitement)

And here's this news. Remember last week I mentioned Bill had some job news. I decided to back off a bit then because everything was not finalized. Well, now it is. He began working as a Business Banker for JPMorgan/Chase this very day. In his former position with Wachovia he was happy enough, but once Wells Fargo bought Wachovia, the proposed changes in his compensation package were not to his advantage. Thus, when a recruiter called asking him to interview with Chase, he jumped at the chance. Fortunately, they liked him, offering him a position along with a salary increase. Hopefully, he'll blossom, and if you know Bill, you'd assume he would because he is a hard worker when money is involved.

Here's Maddie and Clara from our photo shoot the other day. Polly wants to use this one for their Christmas card. After taking these we got serious again. The girls proceeded to place their antlers on my head while we took the remaining photos. I suspect that when I was younger I would have felt self conscious walking around with two sets of antlers on my head, but no longer, I've got no pride left!

One thing I love, love, love about Christmas is the songs. This is one of my favorites:
Listening to: Amy Grant - Emmanuel, God With Us
via FoxyTunes
Not only is her voice spectacular, both the lyrics and arrangement are wonderful. And of course there is my beloved "Christmas Magic" by Fred Waring. Love it!

Tomorrow is Bruce's department Christmas party which should be fun for him. A potluck luncheon, gift exchange, as well as a White Elephant exchange. We found a funny gift for that part. I'm headed to the kitchen now to prepare macaroni and cheese as his contribution. Imagine that until I began making "The Flying Biscuit" mac and cheese Bruce hated the stuff; now it is his favorite. I believe he'd be happy if I made it several times a week.

Speaking of Bruce, it takes him a little while to get in the Christmas spirit. He worked from home today a bit, but once he was caught up I suggested he watch "Love Actually", his favorite. It was a joy to hear him laughing out loud at parts and of course if you've seen it, you know there are some real tear jerker moments. His step is just a little lighter now.

Shades of Red

I'm wondering if every picture I post this month, at least until Christmas, should have either red or green as the primary color? When you've been blogging as long as I have, you've got to keep it fresh....

As if Maureen hasn't had enough trouble lately, it appears that the computer we gave her when I got my Mac is now seriously dysfunctional. How does one look for jobs, check on unemployment claims, and in general, keep up with the world without a computer? We're sorting through the options on how best to get her back up and running. Speaking of Maureen, I was remiss in not mentioning the shrimp she brought to Thanksgiving. It deserved a place of honor on the previously posted menu, but I imagine that since it went too fast for me to get a taste, it slipped my mind.

I'm wondering if I have either a virus, or an auto-immune disease, that is triggered by fatigue. Just when I think that I'll never have those pesky symptoms again, they rear their ugly head, forcing me into rest mode. Yesterday was one of those days; today isn't far behind. The painters returned this morning to finish up the punch list which included painting the insides of all three doors. They are wide open as I type, with the wind whistling through the house, not to mention flying leaves as well, keeping me home for now. In other words, I won't get out, and do too much, forcing another rest day! I did manage to get all my prints done for Sunday though, which is fantastic.

Bruce left this morning for the cold country. :(

Which reminds me of something Jonathan wants for Christmas, "dot gloves." Apparently, they have touch pads so one does not have to go without using one's iPhone during the bitter cold of a Chicago winter. They must be a hit because according to their site, they are sold out of one type, one type is too dorky, and the third won't ship until mid December, by which time Jonathan would be either frozen, or crazed from not fooling with his phone, a phenomenon I find troubling, but then again, I'm old.

The other Peck brothers should have already made an appearance in this blog; somehow I've written about other things instead of my dear sons. Here's a brief update:

Matthew succumbed to the offer of working directly for Allen & Overy. Originally he thought that working for a British firm would require him to stay in London for a specific time period, but he learned differently. Now we know he'll be there for awhile so I'm bound to have that passport ready while he's still there and we can finally visit!

Bill's band, Exit the Ride, has been playing around town with frequency which is obviously a good thing.

David is facing attorneys today. About a year ago, when the stock market meltdown was in full free-fall, some former clients sued Sun Trust, (not David,) over some investments he placed them in. To set the record straight, I want you to know that if those same folks had left their money where it was their losses would be marginal today. Moreover, they moved to another financial institution which steered them toward the same investments, but in our sue-happy society, all that is a moot point. The case has been looming all these months, but David, being David, has remained optimistic because he knew he'd done nothing wrong. Mediation didn't work about a month ago, so yesterday was the first step towards a real trial. He called last evening, worn out from more than four hours grilling by the client's attorney. His attorney coached him on Monday to answer the questions succinctly. Now if you know David even slightly, you know he tends to run on about a subject he's passionate about. Apparently, he did good. Today he faces questioning again, this time from the Sun Trust attorney. Keep him in your prayers that he'll be exonerated quickly!

So there you have a quick summary about our Peck men, although they'll always be my boys. :)

Completely changing the subject, here's a view of the gallery space at the Polasek:

If you've ever been there, you know this is pretty wild for them. They are going more modern these days, here's a link to the facebook page: Maidens & Monsters. Actually, it was more interesting than I'd previously imagined. It will be running until April so I'll get to know it pretty well.

Lastly, although I wasn't feeling so great yesterday, something happened that made me very happy. While eating lunch the phone rang, a rare occurrence these days. It was a youngish man calling from Louisiana about a canvas. It seems as if his girlfriend had seen it while visiting Orlando and has been talking about it for weeks, claiming it's the only thing she wants for Christmas. Now how nice is that?
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Listening to: Low - Just Like Christmas
via FoxyTunes

Christmas Eve

As I mentioned earlier in the week I've not had time to take many pictures of late. Consequently every now and then I have to go visit Regina's backyard and see what is in bloom there. I found these gorgeous Christmas cacti last week--what glorious color!

Of all things I find myself with a cold (?) which it has been my good fortune to avoid for years. I'm feeling pretty puny if the truth be told. I'm still getting around, but not with much vigor. Bruce is not feeling well either which is really shocking as he almost never has anything bothering him. We're quite the couple here on Christmas eve I'm sad to say.

We did manage to get all the packages wrapped for the family. Sadly Jonathan and Alissa's packages did not arrive even though I mailed them ten days ago to be exact. I heard from Matthew, his package arrived maybe Tuesday, so what the problem is with Jonathans--I've no idea. He is not taking it all that well either. His gift from Alissa will also arrive late leaving him with not much opening to do for Christmas. They are taking Amtrack to Alissa's Aunt and Uncles' home in Iowa. They are scheduled to leave around now, however if you've read the papers you know that travel is much delayed in those parts due to the severe weather. I can safely say that I don't envy them the "White Christmas."

Last evening we were treated to a visit from our niece Katie and her boyfriend Billy. I was beginning to feel miserable when she called, but couldn't pass up the chance because I'd heard so much about him. Let me tell you--he did not disappoint. What a good soul he seems to be; I couldn't be happier for Katie. You can tell that he thinks the world of her.

My apologies for the lame post--it is probably time to lay down and rest a bit. with that--

A Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

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Listening to: Sufjan Stevens - O Holy Night
via FoxyTunes

Rainy Day Musings

This is a picture of Kathy, the vendor next to me, from Sunday's market album. Every week I photograph the market doings for Dana as I've probably already told you. I'd put my camera away during the worst of it, but realized this picture of Kathy would tell the story of Sunday perfectly. This puddle is in front of my booth, so now you can see for yourself what I meant. Torrential storms again this afternoon.

The MINI now has a new front tire to the tune of $315. I won't belabor the tire saga, hopefully this will be the end of it.

Here's something I learned from Matt during our chat--the project he's working on in London is monumentally costly (lots of millions) for the firm. As well, he was to give a 3.5 hour presentation to 50 people from around the globe today, which as I type, is I'm sure a past success. I quizzed him on specifics (imagine that!); he brushed aside my awe over the fact that he won't need notes.

Jonathan continues to do stellar work at his job for which I'm so grateful. Those who know our Jon boy know that he's super smart, but he prefers digital gadgets to most everything else. To know that he's exceeding their wildest expectations makes a momma down right proud. His growing area of expertise is a bit hard to understand, but his efforts are culminating in a glowing press release for his firm. Imagine that?

I don't worry too much about the bookends (Matt & Jonathan), but it's the ones in the middle that are living challenging lives presently. Both Bill, and Dave, work for banks. As Bill reminded me yesterday afternoon, the banking business is in shambles. Severe stress + Bill + Dave = potential disaster. Other than that, I hardly know what to say. Plunging stock prices must make every day miserable for David. Actually, most of the time he's trying to stay positive, but Lord knows, it can't be easy.

Bruce is off to the Northeast this week with stops in Connecticut, New York, and Erie, Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, lots of driving is involved between plane trips making for another killer week.

As for the photography business this weeks developments so far are a donation opportunity for a major fund raising event, and of all things, a possible newspaper interview. Today I received an e-mail from a marketing person for Photoshelter, the stock photography site I'm on. She wondered if I'd be willing to be interviewed for the newspaper (yes, that dreadful rag) regarding an event to be held Sunday. They are calling it Shoot! the day and photographers around the world will be shooting specifically for that project. Apparently, after I agreed, she gave him my contact information; I suppose we'll see if he calls.

The donation thing always has the potential to be a good thing. Maria, who did the real estate staging with my photography, was the winning bid on my last donation. All opportunities are welcome around here!





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Listening to: The National - Lucky You
via FoxyTunes

A Surprise

It's astonishing where you find unexpected beauty. Arriving to pick up dry cleaning, I noticed the clouds looked really interesting. I got the baby camera out of my purse and shot a picture through the sunroof. When I got out of the car I pointed the camera upward and what should I discover but this rainbow at 9:00 in the morning with no rain in sight. It seems as if it was a sign of a good week. I want you to know that I am feeling remarkably better. This has happened before, but this time I'm thinking it will stick.

Matt acclimated quickly to the time change and we've been shopping like crazy. Bruce took today off, sleeping in till 8:30. That doesn't seem too late for lots of folks, but he often arises at 4:30AM to catch early flights, so it was a welcome respite.

When your children are grown and making lots of money it is always a challenge for parents at Christmas time. I had no idea what Matt wanted, or needed for that matter. The challenge in buying for Matt is both customs, and weight. One thing he really wanted was a new backpack. We searched extensively for just the right one; I am happy to report we found it.

Actually, the only son easy to buy for was Jonathan because he is still young with plenty of needs for his new environment. I did manage to find some things for David that I hope he will like. Bill makes an annual trip to LA for a music convention with a plane ticket from Bruce. It's going to be a weird Christmas, but I told Matt I want to adapt to changing times with this being a prime example.

A pleasant surprise today via the mailbox was a sweet card from Emily for my graduation. She is one of Matt's friends through Liza and lives in Massachusetts with her dear husband and darling little boy. How thoughtful of her to remember me. I must say I am pretty jazzed that it's over for now. We'll see what I think in a few months.

As you know Bruce works for Darden Restaurants. The stock got clobbered yesterday, and I do mean clobbered. Put it this way--on paper we lost enough to pay off our home. We are thinking positive though because really--what else can you do?

Cards still not done, cookies still not baked, but gosh, we're enjoying each other's company. Did I mention the weather is spectacular?

Life Stories

These guys were playing in front of the grocery store on Saturday morning hoping to entice folks to put some money in the Salvation Army bucket. It's the thing to do.

Fast forward to this afternoon--same location, different characters.

I ran up to the store to get a few things for Matt's arrival and saw a woman outside I knew I recognized. Couldn't really place her, but said hi--I'm glad I did.
She said: "Don't you have twin sons?"
Me: "Why yes I do, as well as two other sons."
How I wished I'd left it at the twins, not because Matthew and Jonathan are not precious to me, but it may have been like rubbing salt into a wound. As it turns out, her son was Bill and Dave's age (I called Dave later, apparently he played baseball with them for some years),anyway, he collapsed and died last November 28th at his job. Well, he didn't really die immediately, they brought him back only to find he had irreparable brain damage. They removed him from life support four days later. He was her only child. We've gone over this territory in the past--losing a child has to be the most devastating experience. I feel for our soldiers parents deeply.

I was shopping a good part of the day; I'm glad that I went there late because obviously she needs to tell her story. She found a rapt audience in me.

Matt's flight has been delayed two hours--I'll leave for the airport a little after 9.

BTW, it is official, my grades were posted today.

Rain Out

Watch the City Council

City Council Meetings - Decisions 2007 gives you gavel to gavel coverage of the City of Orlando Council meetings. Meetings are broadcast the day of the meeting at 2 p.m. on Orange TV channel 9, and repeated Wednesday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. See Orange TV's broadcast sc

We certainly have some catching up to do.

The picture--terrible of course, but you get the idea. The Halloween party was a smash. The decorations were amazing, as was the food and guests. People came in an array of fun costumes. I didn't tell you that Bruce went as a witch doctor. The boys were so shocked Bill hardly knew it was his dad. I've put together a Picasa web album with the pictures; possibly I'll figure out how to make a link to it in the next few days. Unfortunately we didn't get home until about 1:30AM, about four hours past our bedtime. The market beckoned...

Another slow day at the market. Our neighbors, the plant vendors, joked that they had hit the bottom at the market--they just bought a new van hoping for an upswing. Nevertheless, I did sell something and the gentleman asked if I had more on the subject. Naturally, because I am camera crazy I had plenty more to share. I sent him a web album and hopefully he will order something else. If not tomorrow, maybe in the future.

We were so exhausted that as soon as I'd finished my homework and a meal of leftover party food, we hit the sack. Bruce had to leave before 5 AM today and won't return until Friday night. Ick!

Today was eventful. I had the other market at 9 where I duly set up. It was raining all night long and you guessed it--a rain out. Fortunately we did not close up before a family took three prints back to New Hampshire. It was fine by me. It rained steadily on my way home, but the traffic was fine, and I sailed along.

When I got home I checked my e-mail to see if the woman from the city had responded to one I sent before I left. No new e-mail. You see, this is the day that I allegedly was to get the money for having a winning entry to the city calendar photo contest. Here's the bottom line. The mayor presented certificates and a check for $100 at the city council meeting! I did not dress for the television camera. I looked fine, but had I known it was going to be on TV, I might have done better. Apparently, the council meetings are broadcast live, with the link above I should be able to see it for myself. However, I'm not able to open it. At any rate, it was interesting. What most interested me was the way that the mayor lifted his chin purposely with this goofy fake smile each time they took his picture. I suppose that I shouldn't even mention it because Lord knows, I can't take a decent picture to save my life, but I feel I must. I can just imagine how there are consultants coaching him on how to reduce his double chin in photographs, and how many teeth to show etc. That is the thing that I like so much about Patty Sheehan, the commissioner I showed in last week or so. Her smile seems so genuine that you cannot help being charmed by her. It turns out her aide won an award for being an outstanding employee; we walked out together. He was charming as well, professing his love for her, and her tireless work for the downtown district. I totally believed him.

Speaking of consultants--I have my own. Matthew called this afternoon and boy did we chat up the phone lines. Two hours or so. He is in management consulting--it is no wonder they pay him a ton. We discussed the market, writing argument papers for college, he gave me a tutorial on how to think critically about art (he reads the blog so knows my frustration with the film class), Glasgow, and Manchester (he was there last week), the cost of living in London (he's probably the only person you will ever hear of that is saving tons of money while living there), my upcoming speech (he's the inspiration), computer stuff, his visit to Orlando at Christmas, some ideas I had about future photography products, and more. Now you know what I'm talking about... I so miss it when we go two weeks without a phone call, I end up monopolizing the conversation which is sorta crazy. Typically, at this stage of my life I wouldn't be doing so much, and he'd be doing tons. He is doing tons, but, so am I. He thinks critically about everything, so when I propose an idea he has an answer for what is either good or bad about it. It's really invaluable advice and to think I get it for free. I can't wait to see him in less than two months.

Too add to the happiness of the day both Bill and Dave called. I'm a lucky mom.

So Much To Say!

It's all quiet again in the Peck household. Bruce has gone to Detroit, and Matt returned to London yesterday afternoon. Baxter and I are holding down the fort for now.

Mother's Day was unlike any in the past. As you know, we did the market which was not very productive. The crowds were very slim; the weather was very hot! Matt came down about 11, and sat with us, however, it bored him rather quickly. Baxter was not happy either; he barked at all kinds of dogs, and I'm sure scared away a few folks. We've decided it is too much for him, so he'll have to stay home and be the good little doggie we know he can be. On the other hand, I've felt much better the last days, and as mentioned in the previous post, hope it continues without relapse.

The twins came to the market around 2 with Leanne and Michelle. Immediately, they were saying we'll help you pack up--let's beat it. It was agreed, and with that many hands it made for a record tear down time! Everyone gathered at our house and we had snacks and chatted--maybe I should say discussed some of the issues of the day? Judy, and Grandma, came over, and it was all very lively.

These are the cards from the boys. It is so interesting that I can almost guarantee what kind of card each will buy. Matthew always gets cool cards, and writes his own message. Bill buys sweet cards, David buys nice cards, and Jonathan always goes for humor. I love that about them, they are so unique. I frequently wonder how our boys turned out as well as they did. It is quite a wonder that a very young couple managed it, but at least for now, we couldn't be happier with them. I know that sounds silly with a caveat, but you never know!

As I've said in the past, David can really talk your ear off regarding the economy. In fact, he does it at quite a high volume, and when he and Bill are together it is like a tag-team wrestling match. If one of them doesn't convince you, the other will try! Matt was overwhelmed with the chaos they create--not to mention his opposing views! Don't they say never talk about politics or religion? We managed to pretty much skirt the religion issue.

Yesterday morning Matt came with me to Leu Gardens to give me some photography pointers. He showed me how to use some of the adjustments, and it was very helpful. He has written things down for me, but I am a much better student when I can see it firsthand. It rained just a tad, and that made for some good lighting, cooler weather, and of course the droplets on the flowers that I love to photograph!