Fall Creek, anyone??

Eve suggested that we go for a hike this weekend, and I was ready to get out to the country, so we skeedaddled it up Fall Creek for the afternoon. First we checked out the campground where I hope we'll camp this summer. (The pix with D-man are at that camp ground.) The reservoir was empty, so it was eerie with the creek running where a big lake used to be. Then we accidentally, but luckily, headed up-crik and found us a nice trail to hike. I think we did 2 miles total, which was plenty for the kids and for my legs too! Goodness gracious, Oregon is spectacularly beautiful. And all this fantastickness is only 30 mins. away from where we live.

We saw the following birds: bald eagle (I kid you not,) great blue heron, woodpecker.

Look at the lushness of the trees. I can't wait to go back!!

Squirrels, motorcycles and rain

Devin and I rode his Honda 954 to Florence, OR this weekend for the 100th annual Rhododendron Festival!! I was warned to bring plenty of ibuprofen by the Momin8tor, and I'm glad I did, as riding on the back of a crotch-rocket is quite a physical feat!! It rained a little bit on us on the trip there, but being hard-core Oregonians we weren't phased a bit.

Upon arriving at "Windy Haven" on Heceta beach, we were a little taken aback by the dead rat on the kitchen floor.

Now, I must mention here that rats freak me out in the worst way: I've had several nightmares about rats attacking me, I get the heeby-jeebies in a major way if I see one "in the wild" as I did in SF by the Palace of Fine Arts one time with my friend Doc. I'm completely disgusted that anyone can keep one as a pet. It's gross to me that they drag their weiners around and leave urine trails that can be seen by a black light. I do not like rats AT ALL!!

But OK, we saw one and it was dead at the cabin. I got the heeby-jeebies and my night-in-shining-armor cleaned it up. It was relatively clean, with eyes gone (ugh!!) He didn't mention to me at the time, thankfully, that there were maggots on it. Then, as we were looking around D-man said, "Hey, are those rat turds?" and we started looking, and OMG!! the floor was COVERED in rat turds. UGH!!!!! We noticed that mixed with the turds were sunflower seeds, and upon further exploration, we discovered the food source: a 50# bag of bird seed was in the utility room, had been eaten into and was cast all over the floor of the room.

By this time I am pretty much wringing my hands, rocking back and forth with glazed eyes and moaning unintelligibly. You know that type of look that the person has had a nervous breakdown? That was me. I got my act together enough to clean up all the turds and sunflower seeds with a shovel and bucket while D-man did the vacuuming. It cleaned up pretty nice and all appeared safe and rat-free.

Back to my hatred of rats: I knew that chances were very high that this was not one "lone" rat especially with 50# of bird seed and no humans since March. It was late on Friday night, it was raining, we were staying at Windy Haven free of charge. D-man offered to get us a hotel room if I couldn't stay there. What I decided to do was this: there was no way I could stay in a place that was infested with rats, but I could stay somewhere a squirrel had broken in. Like that one time I stayed at a cabin in Maryland that had a dead squirrel in it. OK, the place was crawling with flies from the maggots, but it was a squirrel. Squirrels are cute. They are also rodents, just like rats. I can talk about squirrels, but cannot talk about rats. So D-man and I agreed that "a squirrel" got into the cabin and died.

We got a good night's sleep and on Saturday morning we thought we maybe heard a squirrel in the cabin, but nothing came of it until Saturday night when we definitely heard AT LEAST 2 squirrels doing their squirrelly business. AND D-man saw a squirrel run under the barcalounger. I forgot to mention that the squirrels didn't seem to get to the back of the cabin where the bathroom and master bedroom were located. So I felt safe there until the squirrels weren't scared of us anymore. We plugged a towel under the door to deter any squirrel exploration into our room, I put my earplugs in and got another good night sleep.

In the morning I got up to make coffee and guess what? ANOTHER dead squirrel on the floor in the kitchen. I screamed, "A SQUIRREL!!! Another dead squirrel!!" Crazy, but this one was even more "chawn upon" than the last one and Devin said it was crawling with maggots. (I feel like I'm gonna throw up right now!) But he scooped it up and it seemed kinda like the place smelled better. I feel sorry for Tamara and Carmen who are going next weekend to exterminate the place and clean it...I'm sure there will be AT LEAST one or two more squirrels to clean up even though we removed all the bird seed.

Devin and I had a terrific weekend get away together, despite the squirrels. I drank tons of alcohol to numb myself (not really ;-)

It just goes to show you that when you're in the middle of something it doesn't seem nearly as bad as the telling is!!!

The Clothes Line

We pulled out the clothes line that was left behind when we bought the house, and I just hung my first load on it!! What a satisfying feeling: to be using the energy of my body and the sun to get a job done!! The weather is overcast but intensely warm and bright, which is perfect clothes-drying weather in my opinion. This is definitely one of the highs in life.

Life Motors Along...

Let me catch you up to the story of Pennylicious: Joined Weight Watchers at the end of January and have lost 17# so far! I feel good and I look good too! Or so Momin8tor says! And D-man too! I've managed to shed weight without consistent exercise, so I'm working on increasing the exercise. I found a terrific 4.5 mile walk out in the country near where we live that includes a lap around the little cemetery. With a view of the Three Sisters, it's a magical and inspiring walk. My adorible son turned EIGHT this year, so that's been really exciting. I'm enjoying being his mom. These young boy years are very wonderful. I feel close to him still. Life with my sweetie is very nice. We have our issues, that is true; however,we have a solid base of love and trust that holds us up when things feel rocky. It's the first time I've had that, and it really makes a difference! I am more willing to look at my part in what doesn't work for us. Also, it's important for me that resentment doesn't build up. I'm working on getting my tone and attitude to be kinder because D-man is very sensitive...he is a water sign after all!! D-man is working on his stuff too, girls, don't worry! I have found a really good job! It meets 9/10 of my "top ten requirements for a kickass job!" And believe you me, I was very picky when I made up this list. The honeymoon is over and that takes a little adjustment but I know my employers value me and want me around. That feels good! So life is good, all around! I'm looking forward to summer: the lake, visiting CA, riding the motorcycle, etc.

Embrace My Inner Domestic Goddess

It has been 5 weeks since I was laid off from my job and the novelty is wearing away. Yes, it was great to have lunch yesterday in a peanut bar with my good friends Momin8tor and SayHelloToMyLittleBlog! And I'm looking forward to 99 cent Tuesday at Value Village. However, I also have lots to do at home: unpack boxes (yes, I still have way too many boxes to unpack!,) do the floors, mountains of laundry. I realize that so much of who I am is defined by my job, which is really a mistake since 1) I don't have a job right now and 2) I seem to change jobs every two years or so. I have an identity, and I don't want to change it every two years!! I need a serious attitude adjustment! I'm going to work on that this week by FORCING myself to exercise everyday, getting all the boxes away and making this place look even better and making really nice meals. I think also a project. I'm going to make a rug out of towels ala Martha Stewart. Pictures will follow. I think that having a list of ideas and projects and fun things to do interspersed with actively seeking THE BEST job for me will go a long way to adjusting my attitude. Any other ideas out there? Make a comment. Thanks for listening!

I'm Ho-o-o-me!

It's been a really long time since I have felt "at home." In fact, ever since I left San Francisco way back in 1995, I have felt a little like a fish out of water. I just never really fit into the whole Eugene thing: too urban, not hippy or green enough, not militant enough, or something.

I made one of my goals for last year to "feel at home," and I find at the beginning of 2007 that my goal has been achieved, at last!

Here's what is contributing to me "feeling at home:" I moved into a 4 bedroom, 2 bath house a little south of Eugene. I can paint as I wish, I can garden, I can stay here a long time!! I am actually PROUD to invite friends over to my place that has plenty of room. My son can have friends over for play dates. Also, my beloved boyfriend/partner/best friend D-man and his 17 year-old son will be moving in February! I'll have both a house and a family!

It feels really good to finally settle down. Now I just need a kickass career from which I can retire. Anyone hiring??

Grist Mill

I just wanna shout out to all my friends who are having a rough time this summer for whatever reason!! You are all so awesome, not turning to drugs, alcohol (so much,) dysfunctional relationships, etc. We are all experiencing whatever comes our way with eyes open and a prayer in our hearts!!!

You all ROCK!!!!

Waxing

Have you ever waxed your car? Last night was the first time I EVER waxed a car. I ended up doing that instead of working on the crossword and let me tell you...the crossword is WAY quicker than waxing a car in the dark. I was a woman possessed with a bad attitude and too much time on my hands!! I don't even know if I did a good job because it was dark by the time I actually finished! I'll check it out and buff it again this morning (real quick like.) I hope today is a better day.

IRS-itated

Remind me, would you, to not check my mail in the morning. I foolishly opened a letter from the IRS (rarely is it good news, except for my lucky friends - Momin8tor being one) and read it before going into work. It colored my entire day: I was cranky, irritable, had a bad attitude, pessimistic, didn't exercise and didn't smile or enjoy myself at all! If any of you know someone (or ARE someone) who can help me with reviewing my taxes from 2004 (THAT was a fun year for me!) I would be very grateful. I am grateful for: 1. Big box fan 2. Roof over my head 3. Plans to hang out at the lake 4. Cheap wine at Trader Joe's 5. High speed internet Now I'm breathing in. Now I'm breathing out!!! Also, thank you, dear friends for being there for me. When times are tough, I look to you to help bouy my spirits. I'm going to work on yesterday's crossword now.

A Perfect Summer's Day

Yesterday I was remarking to my MAN that I had two days in one: my work day, which was slow and tedious (except for the company of my good, good friend Momin8tor,) and then my day which occurred after work. I hightailed it down to Cottage Grove, OR, my MAN BBQed steaks for us and I whipped up a nice salad which we were able to eat outside since it was so mild temperature-wise, then I suited up and hopped on the back of his Honda SS 954 for a delicious ride around Cottage Grove Lake. Of course the temps were even more perfect down by the water! After going around the lake the first time we stripped down to our swim suits and jumped into the cool, refreshing water for a nice dip. We yakked it up as we dried al aire libre then we drove around the lake in the other direction.

As I looked around from my sweet position behind my MAN with my arms wrapped around him and the crotch-rocket between my legs at my verdant surroundings, I thought, "This is just perfect, a dream come true." Have you ever had one of those experiences when you know that you will treasure this moment forever? That was my afternoon yesterday!!

This is turning out to be one of the best summers of my life!!

Gratitude

Five things for which I am grateful:

1. Sparkly gold toe nails.
2. Time at the lake with my son, my sweetie & kids.
3. Vinnie's tampon case.
4. Organic tomatoes.
5. Excitement about an upcoming adventure.

My weekend was so much fun, even with the early-morning arisings thanks to the construction outside my door. I got to hang out with my girlz and laze around the lake with Mr. D, his children and my son. I'm also thankful that I was taught the notion of opening my eyes and looking around to notice the love and passion in my life. A little shout-out to my kick-ass therapist, Victoria. You ROCK!!!

G'morning!!

I usually relish my sleep-in of a weekend morn, but not THIS morning! Gansen Construction, in its pursuit of the all-mighty dollar, is erecting an apartment building for 5 families exactly in front of my little four-plex! I've been dreading this process since May, so I had been enjoying every single blade of grass that I knew would be torn up by the end of summer. So here I am, at 7:45 AM on a Saturday, standing outside my place on the balcony, breathing in diesel fumes! I'm in the middle of the process and what I've learned from previous experience is that when in the middle of the process, one needs to stay in the moment, breathe and do a gratitude journal.

I am thankful for:
1. Having a day free to play.
2. Having plenty of healthy food in the fridge.
3. My friends.
4. My incredible boyfriend.
5. Skinner butte park is open!!
6. Pee Wee's playhouse on DVD.

I'll record 5 things for which I am thankful everyday during "the process!!"

Thanks for reading!!

Knitting at the Drag Strip

This weekend at Woodburn drag strip, I was pondering the many different cultures to which I've been exposed thanks to my ex-boyfriends: Mods, Brits, Punks. Now I've been exposed to drag racing! I spent 2 days with the pit crew for Gregg's car (in picture) as they played with their big-boy toys. On Saturday I watched over my sweetie's shoulder as he took apart the engine and meticulously examined then fixed every nook and cranny. It was fascinating and not unlike a medical procedure (which I also find fascinating!) Mr. D is a patient, intelligent teacher. On Sunday I wasn't feeling so hot (a little shout out to Miz Jen and her wicked Mai Tais! -- Curses!!) As I sat in the shade, I pulled out my bright pink and neon orange knitting project and just about finished my tea cozy. I laughed at myself as once again I blended two worlds together in the funky way I always manage to do! Maybe I'll metamorphose into a "Drag Race Junkie," but chances are I'll maintain my own personality while navigating this interesting new culture!!

Pennylicious moves on...in a big way

Well, well, well. The day has finally come wherein I deleted all of my old e-mails from an old relationship that at one time broke my heart. I took the final plunge and deleted all old e-mails and old pictures. In the e-mails was the "hidden" contact information. That is now expunged!! I am ready to face my future with my new sweetie (see picture) and not cling to the past that was so unhealthy for me. I deserve perfect happiness without senselessly fearing another broken heart. I think this fine gentleman will do right by me, and if he doesn't that's his loss.

Hey Neesie...aren't you proud of me?? You were my inspiration!

Floating above the Earth

OK, I just have to say how HAPPY I am right now! My sweetie is into me, I'm into him, we have plans to hang out with friends, I have plans to hang with my girlz this weekend, I've got some cash, I'm active. Wow. Ladies, it's been a long, long time since I've felt truly happy. What perfect timing with the summer and the beautiful weather.

See y-all on Saturday! Go Ems!!

For Whom the Bell Tolls....

Greetings and Salutations, Ladies!

Yesterday was a stressful day for me at work, however, I DID get to use my favorite word: behoove. I try to use the word "behoove" every single day. It doesn't always work its way in my daily conversations, but I try!

Once at my son's school one of the teacher's aides used the word "whom" properly, so I gave him some props. He did not at all take pride that (1) he did indeed use the word correctly (after a preposition such as for, with, etc.,) and (2) it was recognized and appreciated. I was a little disappointed because grammar, punctuation and spelling are hugely important to this former Catholic school gal!! Nothing is more pleasing to me (ok, a few things are a little more pleasing to me) than having a discussion over the correct usage of words, definitions, proper grammar.

It would behoove me to get off the computer and finish getting ready for work, where I will see Neesie with whom I work.

*mwah* Hope to see you soon, CC!!

Please do not read

Noone is interested in the 40-something musings herein. Please turn back and do not continue....

Nothing new, nothing interesting, except: I'm amazed each day that I get to work with Neesie! It's like a beautiful miracle. I just wish we had our third with us...then we'd have the perfect work environment!!

My sweetie has been especially sweet lately, so that's really nice.

Sumthin Spicey

Today I'm listening to Salt-N-Pepa while cleaning house. I have been known to be somewhat of a "musical retard," but now that I have Comcast Rhapsody, those days are behind me! If ever I think of a song I like, I can not only listen to the song, but also the album and any other songs for that artist. It's a musical retard's dream come true.

I'm not actually new to blogging, in fact, here's a link to my myspace blog: http://blog.myspace.com/flowbee2000

Feel free to check it out. I've been musing there for a few months of ups and downs.

It's a nice day for house cleaning. Hoping to get out of doors for some fun later. Let's see if the weather holds out!!

*mwah*

I'm joining a great group of ladies....

Greetings!

What is it about growing older that puts one through the grist-mill that is known as LIFE?? When I was in my late 30's I thought I had it all figured out, but alas, I didn't know squat!! Now that I've got a few more years under my belt, I've discovered that, yes, life is difficult/challenging/sucky at times, but that I can do it! I can rise above the challenges, I can persevere and as a matter of fact I can THRIVE!! Yes, I am a better person because of all the hard work, self-examination and difficult personalities. Therefore, "Thank you" to all my ex-boyfriends (especially RC,) former bosses and bee-otchy co-workers. You have helped me become a more grateful, humbler Pen Wah who recognizes the kindness, beauty, love and passion that is jam-packed in my life.


A grumble: I'm broke and hate being broke! I guess I'll just have to be creative and thrifty :-)