Love Is In The Air

My sister, Debi, has informed me that she and her beloved, Barry, got engaged over the holiday!! This is wonderful news, and I am so happy and excited for them. Debi and I were talking on the phone, and laughing at the fact that once people learn of your engagement, the first question that is asked is "so when is the big day...?" Often times I would like to respond with "Well, it's not very often in life that one can claim that they are engaged. Can't we just enjoy being engaged for awhile?" But, of course I am polite, and say "well, we haven't set a date quite yet, but probably sometime in the next year." Or two. Or three.

In the spirit of your special day, I have included some appropriate video footage. When you do decide to tie the knot, may it be special and memorable:



You may want to consider this for your first dance as a married couple:



Barry, welcome to the family!! I am so happy that my sister found such a wonderful man to share her life with. Congratulations!! And, I wish you both the best.

Sneaky little visitor...

Blake and I were having our coffee this morning, and enjoying the view of our backyard. Who needs the nature channel? We put out some bird seed and suet, then sat back to enjoy the show. This morning there were about 30 birds taking turns at the feast. We put some seed on the ground for the squirrels to enjoy, in hopes of keeping them away from the feeders. Blake was taking some pictures of all the excitement. He was saying how he wished we could see some other wildlife, when all of a sudden, this little white animal raced across the hilltop. I completely missed it. He reappeared, racing all over the backyard, until he ran out of sight. Blake decided to look out the front door to see if he was in the yard, then lo and behold...there was the ermine right on the welcome mat! (He probably heard about Liisa's yummy Christmas cookies. --Blake) He is extremely fast - he climbed a tree in a flash. I looked him up online, and found he is a long-tailed weasel. These critters are brown in the summer, and turn white in the winter. They typically live in dens, and eat mice and rats. I don't know how he did it, but Blake was able to get a few photos... they are a tiny bit blurry because this weasel was so dang fast.

We returned from Montreal yesterday. I have to say that Cirque du Soleil was absolutely amazing. There were two women on the trapeze who were fascinating to watch. Although, they made my palms sweaty, and I think I was holding my breath for a bit. There was great comedy and live music between performances. I was disappointed to see the show end, I could have watched for countless hours, I am sure. I can't wait to attend another show!!

'Tis the season

We are getting ready to head to Montreal today for Cirque du Soleil!! After Blake got our tickets, and made our hotel reservation, (all non-refundable), he started feeling like he was coming down with a cold. He has been going to work throughout the week, ingesting some serious vitamin C and TheraFlu, and going to bed really early in hopes of feeling better. It seemed that he was progressively getting worse, and stayed home from work on Friday. We were planning on going to Montreal early to explore, but now it looks as though we will be going later in the day, in time to catch the show and then going straight to the hotel for a romantic evening of sniffling, sneezing, coughing, and SLEEP!! Poor Blake. Hopefully he is still able to enjoy himself. Our plan was to drive to Blake's parents house on Sunday, and stay for a few days through Christmas. We may end up coming home, resting up for a couple days, and then going to the parental homestead for Christmas day.

We have had a couple of snow storms, and have had 30+ inches of snow accumulation for the month of December. This is in the top 10 for snowiest December's on record. According to the Farmer's Almanac, we are in for a pretty brutal winter. I think it might be fun to have a really snowy winter. I haven't experienced one for quite some time. I was watching a show on public television about Vermont history, and there was an older gentleman talking about the winters he experienced as a boy. He remembered times when you couldn't see out the first floor windows of his house because the snow was so deep. Okay, that would be a bit much. I couldn't imagine digging myself out of the house, or being marooned for several days, unable to go anywhere. But, a white Christmas will be nice. And, for now, it sure looks beautiful.

Cirque du Soleil

I am so excited!! I have wanted to see Cirque du Soleil for quite some time... and the opportunity has finally arrived. Blake noticed that Cirque will be visiting Montreal next weekend, and asked if I would be interested. INTERESTED?? Uh, I'll go pack my bags right now. He discovered there were still some seats left, and we decided to sit one level up from the ground, hoping that it would provide the best viewing opportunities. The show we are going to is called "Saltimbanco." Saltimbanco is an old italian word for street artist. Saltimbanco is a Cirque du Soleil signature show inspired by the urban fabric of the metropolis and its colorful inhabitants. Decidedly baroque in its visual vocabulary, the show's eclectic cast of characters draws spectators into a fanciful, dreamlike world, an imaginary city where diversity is a cause for hope. www.cirquedusoleil.com This is one of Cirque's longest running shows, and should be a wonderful treat. On another happy note, I received 100% on my math presentation, and an "A" in the course. I received 100% on my seven page research paper for Psychologoy, and an "A" in the course. The reason I am sharing this, is for a couple different reasons. I have never in my life received an A in math. And, I was very excited about the grade on my research paper, because I haven't written a paper in a very long time. I was a little stressed about it. So, it's just very rewarding to see that all of my hard work paid off. : )

It's Official...

Winter is here. We had some freezing rain and sleet overnight, and we are expected to get 5-10 inches of snow today and tonight. It will continue to snow throughout the week, with some additional accumulation on Friday. I wasn't feeling ready for this a couple of weeks ago, but now I am getting excited at the thought of strapping on my snowshoes, heading out the back door and enjoying the season. I found a picture of this snowy path, just begging for someone with a sled or a pair of snowshoes. : ) We stocked up on hot chocolate and Fluff (mmmmmm), and I'm going to make a big pot of stew this week, so we're all set. I made an appointment (about six weeks ago) at Costco to have my winter tires put on. Today was the first opening they had. Unfortunately, today is also the day of our first winter storm. Blake, being the wonderful fiance that he is, volunteered to drive my car to work today, and then stop at Costco on his way home to have the tires put on. I guess next year I'll need to make my appointment in September!!

I am up to my elbows in my research paper and math project. I will be happy to have everything done... then I can relax and have some fun! My psychology research paper topic is about Dissociative Identity Disorder (formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder). It's really quite interesting, and it's been fascinating to read about. The research paper has been slightly stressful, considering I haven't written a paper since like 1989....

Stay warm, Vermonters!

Two More Weeks

Just two more weeks of studying... two more weeks... two more weeks... I have to put together a presentation for my Mathematical Concepts class, and write a five page research paper on Multiple Personality Disorder for Psychology. Oh yeah, in addition to my regular homework and tests. Actually, this has been a pretty enjoyable semester. I actually enjoyed my math class (I never thought I would put the words "enjoyable" and "math" in the same sentence). And, Psychology has been pretty interesting. But, I am really looking forward to a five week break. Ya-hoo!! I would like to spend some time reading, drawing, cooking, playing in the snow, and spending some time with my betrothed. Next semester I will be taking Anatomy and Physiology II and Vermont History, both of which will be online classes. After winter semester, I am looking forward to taking the summer off. I will be applying to the Dental Hygiene program in March, and if accepted, I will begin classes in Fall 2008. So, keep your fingers crossed for me. : ) I have been told not to be surprised if I don't get in on my first attempt. But, I am really hoping to get in. I really don't want to wait another year. There are approximately 100 applicants and 24 slots. Did I mention it would be great if you would keep your fingers crossed for me??

Happy Thanksgiving!!

We are heading up to Glover, Vt. to spend Thanksgiving with Pa, Blake's step-brother, Rob, and his wife, Carrie. Ma won't be there because she is in Belgium visiting Sarah and the new baby. It will be a bit strange without her, but we'll manage. Rumor has it that there is a good bit of snow in Glover, so we may be able to do some sledding and snowshoeing. Yes!

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!

Get Yer Butt In Gear

It was a perfectly lovely Saturday. I joined a new gym in St. Albans last week (after a long bout of pouting about missing my old gym in Burlington...wah!), and went to my first spin class in about 6 months. It felt great! I did better than I anticipated, and it was just as much fun as I had hoped it would be. Today, however, I can barely move. My legs feel like they weigh about 100 lbs. apiece, and Blake is going to have to pry my butt off of the couch. Oh dear! Apparently I overdid it. I am feeling as though I was hit by a very large truck, but I am totally looking forward to the next class! Bring it on!

After spin class, I drove south to Williston to pick up some more art supplies. I love the art store. They have about a zillion different pastel colors to choose from, and a bunch more cool-looking supplies that I have no idea what you're supposed to do with. But, I'm having fun. I learned that there is a Vermont Pastel Society, so I am going to check them out and see if they offer some classes.

Last night we went to dinner with some new friends. We tried out a restaurant in St. Albans called "Ciao Bella". We had a great time, and had some delicious food, too! They have a pretty tasty tuna steak, and some really sinful desserts! Mmmm.....

Step It Up

On November 5th, Blake and I attended an environmental rally "Step It Up" to help fight climate change. Step It Up 2007 is a campaign organized by people all around the country, calling for leadership on global warming. Their goal is to empower the grassroots climate movement to take action locally by calling for national change.
Some easy things you can do:

• Replace standard light bulbs with new compact fluorescent bulbs.


• A new, energy-efficient refrigerator will cut your home's CO2 output by a ton a year.


• Insulate pipes that carry hot water throughout your home. If your water heater is more than 5 years old, wrap it in an insulating jacket.


• Run full loads when washing clothes. Use cold or warm water instead of hot.


• Turn off your computer monitor when you won't be using it for at least 20 minutes.


• Check your car tires. Keep wheels aligned and tires properly inflated. Keep your engine tuned. You'll save up to 165 gallons of gas per year (that's $510.00 at current gas prices!) by minding those spark plugs, oxygen sensors, air filters, hoses and belts.


• By driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle, it not only saves you money, it makes a big difference in reducing emissions.


• Check the insulation around your home: the attic, around pipes and ductwork, and under the flooring on the ground floor.


• Plant dense evergreen trees and shrubs to the north and northwest of your home to protect it from cold winter winds.


• Raising meat contributes more global warming emissions than raising crops. Cutting back on meat even once a week can make a difference.

Skinny Pancakes and Nutella

On Saturday morning, Blake and I went to Burlington and visited the Skinny Pancake restaurant. They serve crepes filled with just about everything you can imagine. There are some filled with honey and cinnamon, warm apples and brie, and some are served quesadilla-style with salsa, avocado and cheese. Then, there are some filled with Nutella. You can get them french-style with Nutella only, or if you're feeling in need of a bit more, you can get Nutella, strawberries, bananas, and whipped cream. Yum!!! I have never made crepes before, but I am feeling a strong urge to make some right now. With Nutella, of course. Or, maybe I should bag the crepe idea and just buy a jar of Nutella and get out a really big spoon.

Happy Halloween!!

Fall Is In The Air

I have proudly displayed my 114 lbs. worth of pumpkins on the front porch; however, we live in the middle of nowhere, so we'll be lucky if anyone sees them besides us. But, they put me in the mood for fall, so what the heck. Two weeks ago, the foliage was at its peak... best leaf-peepin' opportunities. My plan was for us to take a drive along Mountain Road and get some photos, but my plan was foiled due to the fact that we had too much other stuff we wanted to get done. So, I was thinking I would take some pictures of the trees around our house. Well, not three days later, the leaves were practically gone. So, I got nothing. The leaves were not their best this year, anyway. This was due to a dry August and September. Good moisture = good foliage colors. Oh well, maybe next year.

A few weeks ago we went to the Arts and Crafts Festival held in Stowe, Vt., and the Applefest held in the Champlain Islands. The Arts and Crafts Festival was great! We bought a picture to hang on our somewhat empty walls, and a piece of stained glass art to hang in a window. The place was full of many talented artists. Applefest was fun, although a bit strange. It seems to me that the town of Hero, Vt. got together and decided to have a giant garage sale, but deemed it a "festival" to try and keep it interesting. It wasn't a total loss... we had a piece of apple pie topped with caramel and ice cream. Yum! And, we picked some fresh apples which were delicious.

Every time we go to any kind of an art show I am always drawn to the pastel or stained glass art. I was thinking I would try my hand at drawing again, something I haven't done in years. I bought some pastels to experiment with, too. I'm having a lot of fun with it. If all goes well, I'm hoping I can create a couple of pictures worthy of being hung on the walls. If not, I guess I'll start decorating the garage.

Chicago...here I come!!

My wonderful fiance has reserved us a seat for the broadway musical "Chicago"!! I am pretty excited about it, since I have really wanted to see it in person after watching the movie. The show is not until February, but it is only in town for one day, so I feel pretty lucky about having tickets. It's always great having something special to look forward to.

I just started fall semester at school, and it looks as though this semester will be much better than the last. Summer semester was not exactly a good experience, but something positive did come from it. It provided the proof I needed that I can do this, and do it well, without having to get completely stressed out over it. This semester I am taking Intro to Psychology and Mathematical Concepts. My last math class, thank goodness! This math class is already going much better than the last, thanks to an instructor that actually cares whether or not we get it, and stops to explain if we don't. Plus, she doesn't make us feel like a complete idiot when we're stuck. (Luxuries I didn't have over the summer.) I hired a private tutor over the summer, and when I told my professor this he responded with "well, if that's what you need to motivate you to study..." It had nothing to do with motivation... it was about the fact that you can't explain any of this in terms that the majority of the class can understand!!

Blake started a new job at the end of August... a position with a company called NRG. Their focus is wind power, and they really seem to value and appreciate their employees. He is really enjoying it and happy that he has found a position that provides opportunity and growth, with a company that is doing something meaningful.

I recently went to visit my family. It was really great seeing everyone. Blake wasn't able to come with me, due to the fact that he started his new job the week I was there. I stayed with my mom, which was great because I really wanted to spend some time hanging out with her. We celebrated my dad's 84th birthday while I was there, and I got to see my great-neice. I will post some pictures soon!

I hope everyone is doing well. I hope to post some pictures of our transition into fall, here in the northeast. Love to you!!

Losing My Mind

School started two weeks ago. After a bunch of studying, and a mini meltdown, I think I've got things under control. Let's just say I went into a moderate state of shock and panic. I wasn't expecting that this would be easy, but it's definitely taken some adjustment. I am taking Nutrition and a math class, and for those that know me well, they know that Liisa and math don't get along very well. Thank goodness for Blake, I don't know what I would do without him. He's been keeping the ship afloat while I hit the books. He also saved me from completely going off the deep end last week.

Aside from studying, I spent the majority of the day yesterday planting flowers. I fell in love with this peony at the nursery, and just had to bring it home. I've planted Delphinium, Foxglove, Phlox, Cosmos, Russian Sage, and Peonies. I also threw a bunch of wildflower seed around our wooded areas. I think Blake is concerned because I seem to know where all of the nurseries are within a 30 mile radius of our house. Tee hee. It's good stress relief, and it makes the garden pretty, so that's my excuse. My veggie garden is doing quite well, I am happy to report. We'll be able to enjoy some lettuce and bok choy soon.

Other good news: In a couple of weeks we'll be able to kiss our dial-up service goodbye. Say hello to satellite service. Yipee!!

I hope everyone is doing well, and enjoyed the weekend.

Tofu Making Class

On Thursday evening I attended a tofu-making class. It was alot of fun, and a great learning experience. Prior to the class I had never tasted homemade tofu. We started out the class with a tasting of tofu the instructor had made, and it was absolutely delicious. If you are at all interested in making it, I would highly recommend hands-on learning. It is definitely an art. We were told not to be surprised if at home our first couple of batches don't come out quite right. It's a bit of trial and error. But, I'm really looking forward to making my own soon.

Blake got back from Ohio on Thursday, and he's doing well. In August there is going to be a family gathering in Green Harbor, Massachusetts at the family beach house. Blake's father loved the ocean and spending time in Green Harbor, so it will be a great place for everyone to come together and honor his memory as well as celebrate his life.

This weekend we are busy working in the yard. It's something that I really enjoy, so I'm trying to get as much in as I can before classes start next week. Blake's family is going to be here visiting tomorrow. Blake told me a funny story about his sister, Serenity. While she was packing her bags to come to Vermont, she had the opportunity to pack her things in a rolling suitcase, but noticed her boyfriend had a nice, big backpack she could use instead. At the airport before boarding the plane, she strapped on her backpack and then picked up her bags. Well, she literally fell over right in the airport. She quickly stood up and said out loud, "Hmm, I guess I overpacked!!" I would have paid alot of money to have witnessed this.

I hope everyone has a fun holiday weekend!!

The Cutest Garden...EVER!!

Here's a pic of our vegetable garden. Over the past couple of days I planted tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, bok choy, mesclun, leaf lettuce, spinach and carrots. I hope it's successful! Blake built the walls for the raised beds, and he hauled in the topsoil and compost. I planted some marigolds in hopes of keeping the animals away. Also, I used a mild insecticide. I would like to find a reliable all-natural insecticide, so if anyone has any suggestions, I would love to hear them!! This weekend we are going to build a fence around it which can be taken down when not in use.

I would also like to find a squirrel-proof bird feeder... if anyone has had great success with a certain type, please let me know!! The squirrels and chipmunks have been doing a "Mission Impossible" number on our feeders, the little rascals.

I have attached a couple more photos. One is the view from our backyard. The other is the view of the front of the house. We have lots of work to do, clearing rocks and branches, but things are coming along very nicely.

On a sad note, Blake's father passed away last night after battling a brain tumor. It's a difficult time, to say the least. Blake is in Ohio for the next couple of days, so that he can be with his family. I'm feeling a bit sad that I'm not there with him, and looking forward to his return on Thursday. We spent some time at Green Harbor in Massachusetts last summer visiting with his dad soon after we learned about the brain tumor, and that is where I met his dad. He was on the beach throwing horseshoes and enjoying himself. We really enjoyed our time at the beach house and spending time with the family. He truly will be missed.

Fiddleheads

These crazy looking things are called Fiddleheads, well, because they look like the top of a fiddle. In the northeast these are a popular treat in the early spring. Last night I sauteed them with some corn, then topped with a dab of butter and some salt and pepper. Mmmm!! They are quite delicious. Fiddleheads are actually the early stages of a fern plant before they "uncurl" and spread their leaves.

We are getting more settled in the new house. There is lots and lots to do... clearing rocks and branches, planting flowers and I have yet to get my vegetable garden going. We are going to have raised beds, so Blake built the wooden sides last weekend. We need to haul in some compost and topsoil, which we were going to do ourselves, but it rained all last week which means the yard is kind of a muddy mess due to the fact that our grass has not completely come in yet. We did get some rhododendron and lilacs to plant. We have lots of birds and put up several feeders yesterday. Also, the baby chipmunks are running around like crazy. They have little racing stripes down their bodies so they can run really fast.

I have been neglecting my blog the past couple of weeks, and I have no excuse other than we were moving and I was feeling pretty worn out. Well, that and the fact that the dial-up internet connection kind of puts a damper on things. But, things should be up and running once again.

Settling In

Blake and I are getting settled in our new home. Funny how unsettling not being settled can be. I am not one to complain much... but it is somewhat stressful being completely taken out of your little niche. Learning a new route to work, how to get to the nearest grocery store, joining a new gym and setting up your routine in a new place... Then there's unpacking... during which Blake and I have both muttered to ourselves, "why do we need all of this crap?" Neither one of us are pack-rats. But, it still seems like an overwhelming amount of crap. Funny how you seem to forget what a pain moving actually is until the next time you do it.

The first night in our new house was wonderful. We quickly discovered how dark and quiet a night in the country is. I don't know that I've slept that soundly in quite some time. The only noise was the sound of frogs and an occasional coyote. On my way to work I pass by a few of these ridiculously cute farms situated in the rolling hills and surrounded by trees which have finally gotten their first leaves.

Hopefully this weekend we can finish unpacking. Also, we hope to get started on our vegetable garden and plant some flowers. I am just looking forward to being able to work outside, it's been awhile since I have been able to do that. I will post some new pictures soon!!

Freaking Out...

Well, you may find this shocking, but we still cannot move into our new house. As you may recall, the original reason we weren't able to move in (back in March) was because the builder had made changes to our well and septic, and got what he thought was the proper approval through the town of Fairfax. Well, the town of Fairfax informed us that they did not have the appropriate paperwork, and instead of getting a "verbal okay", they made us jump through hoops. The changes had to go to town meeting. Then, it had to be posted in the paper for 15 days. Then, it had to go back to town meeting. Well, town meeting was last night. Today we were informed that everything was approved, but the paperwork was not signed "because they ran out of time." WHAT?? Are you freaking kidding me?? How could you not take 5 minutes to sign some papers?? Supposedly they are holding a special meeting just for us (aren't we lucky!?) next Tuesday, so that the paperwork can be signed. We are allowed to bring our stuff to the house, but we are not allowed to live there. So, we will be staying at the luxurious La Quinta Inn for a lovely 4 night stay. This is absolutely the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. Unfortunately, we kind of feel like our hands are tied, because technically the town of Fairfax can take up to 45 days to sign the paperwork (WHAT??) and they are holding a very special meeting just for us... cuz we're so lucky.

Moving Day, Part Two

I think we are actually going to be taking up residence in our new house this coming weekend!! We've got the moving truck reserved, as well as a studly college student to help with a few heavy items. Our closing is on Friday, then we get to the business of moving on Saturday. I am looking forward to getting settled the remainder of the weekend. Blake and I are both off work Friday through Monday.

I registered for school today, so I guess that makes me all official. I am looking forward to getting it done, and trying to enjoy the process the best I can. The first year I will be working full time, so I'm not sure how enjoyable that will be. Then, the following two years I will be a full-time student. Which just seems like kind of a weird concept right now.

The physical therapist did a deep tissue massage on my left calf last night. It was insanely painful and enjoyable at the same time. Painful as he was working out several knots. The enjoyable part came afterwards, in the form of relief. Ahhh...

Global Climate Change

earthportal.org is an online resource for science-based information about the environment. While we continue to learn more about global warming, I found this article to be a good reminder of just how serious the issue is, and how quickly we will be noticing the increasing changes to our environment:
Global climate change could dramatically reshape America’s public lands and the government’s ability to manage them as seas rise, species are threatened with extinction and wildfire threats increase.

“On the ground, we’re seeing a lot of changes,” Deputy Secretary Lynn Scarlett said. “Some of them dramatic.”
Changing temperatures have spurred the movement of wildlife, forcing managers to rethink how to protect animals and habitat. “Many parks, refuges and other conservation areas were created to preserve a specific mix of species within specific boundaries,” Scarlett said. “Is on-site conservation possible within current, fixed boundaries, if species composition is changing and moving?”
And people’s use of public lands are also likely to change, said Ron Huntsinger, the Bureau of Land Management’s science coordinator.
“We can anticipate further reductions in the level of allowable uses on public lands due to the loss of productivity and capacity,” Huntsinger said. “The results are more fragile ecosystems, a greater susceptibility to the outbreaks of attacks by parasites and disease, increased vulnerability to wildland fire and erosion, and an overall reduction in the carrying capacity of the land.”
Don Neubacher, superintendent of California’s Point Reyes National Seashore, said the park regularly experiences severe winter storm damage that requires emergency spending. “The intensity of the storms and the number of storms each year has been increasing,” Neubacher said.
At Everglades National Park, Superintendent Dan Kimball is concerned about rising seas threatening the nation’s largest freshwater wetland and primary recharger of drinking water supplies for 5 million South Floridians. The park’s highest point is 11 feet above mean sea level, and 60 percent of the park is less than 3 feet above sea level.
“Sea level rise would likely push salt water into the Everglades and threaten the viability of South Florida’s drinking water supply,” Kimball said, citing the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report that predicted sea levels could rise between 7 inches and 23 inches this century. http://www.earthportal.org/news/

Mt. Washington Auto Road

Today in spinning class we did our climb up Mount Washington "The Beast Of The East". It was 50 minutes uphill, challenging, yet very fun!! Some Mt. Washington facts:

Elevation: 6288'
"An actual ride on the Mount Washington Auto Road is a ride unlike any other. With the ever-changing weather conditions on New England's highest peak, no two trips are the same. Blue skies and stunning vistas may greet you one day. The next day you could have the adventure of a lifetime in the peak's strong winds, remarkable fog and rapidly moving clouds. On any day, your adventure awaits.
The Mt Washington Auto Road is 7.6 miles in length, has an average grade of 12% with extended sections of 18% and the last 50 yards is an amazing 22%! Sprint that!
Vertical elevation gain is over 4800' in the 7.6 mile distance race. Last years winner of the Hill Climb covered the distance in 52:21 and the winner was America's Tyler Hamilton. The next rider was 2:20 behind him. The course record was set in 2002 in a time of 49:34 by Tim Danielson.
The weather there is always a factor and can play a large part in whether riders even finish the course." Info courtesy Ken Boyd

My spinning instructor said that several years ago when he did the race, there were times that the wind was so strong that it literally blew you over. They had no choice but to postpone the race for another day.

The Long And The Short Of It

For the past several weeks, I have been considering trading in my long hair for a new and shorter version. Kind of a celebration of spring, warm weather, new beginnings... The thought is a little scary, but I wear my hair pulled up every single day, so one begins to wonder, what exactly, is the point of having the long hair? I think your hair should match your personality. But sometimes you want stylish and sometimes you want functional. So, if I could find a shorter haircut that I could style both messy and stylish (depending on my mood), I would be all set. I have had short hair once in the past, and I loved it. Until one day I went in for a trim, and I came out with a butch. This was complements of the "gabby hairdresser" who liked to talk more than she liked to cut hair. Or, maybe it was just that she couldn't talk and pay attention to what she was doing at the same time. I was a bit upset, to say the least. And, I never went back after that day. But, that was a long time ago. I have come to the conclusion that I am definitely ready to go for it... I just hope I am so enthusiastic walking out of the salon.

Spring in Vermont

Last week in New England, we were hit with another nor'easter. Some of the area schools were closed, and certain areas were hit pretty hard. There were a few towns in Vermont that were without power for several days.

Many of the birds had returned, but were dying because of the extended winter weather and lack of food/bugs. We read stories of local birdwatchers that were buying grasshoppers and crickets from pet stores to try keep the birds fed. Apparently, some birds won't eat the bugs unless they are flying through the air, so bird lovers were using plastic spoons to flick them up into the air.

Then, we got a lovely taste of Spring. The past couple of days we have enjoyed a big, beautiful blue sky and temperatures in the 60's. Today it is going to be nearly 70 degrees. Blake and I are going to get our bikes out of the garage, dust them off, and take our first ride on the bikepath in quite some time. With recent events, and all of the disturbing news, I find myself wanting to dive head first into what is good and right with the world. Nature seems like a great way to do just that!

I met with the physical therapist on Monday. Basically, he told me I'm crooked. I have torso and pelvic rotation to the left. My left hip, left diaphragm and right shoulder are the culprits. Also, my left arch is collapsed. This is all causing my knee and leg pain. So, we are working on getting me straightened out. And, he thinks I'll be up and running in no time. Yeah!!

I'm off to my Saturday spin class. I have really been enjoying it. Next Wednesday we are going to climb "The Beast Of The East"... Mount Washington. 50 minutes... all uphill. Yes!!

Plantar Fasciitis, Runner's Knee and Shinsplints...Oh My!!!

I was getting all fired up to do a 10k, when all of a sudden I developed some annoying lower leg pain. I tried to just run through the discomfort, but after a couple of runs, decided that was not such a good idea. This past week I continued my spin class, but substituted the elliptical for my running. This was bothersome, because I don't feel like I get nearly as good of a workout on the elliptical. I would really, really like to continue the running, so I made an appointment with a physical therapist to find out what can be done about these issues I'm trying to deal with:
Plantar Fasciitis is pain in the bottom of your foot, usually right under your heel. The condition is usually worst in the morning, particularly during the first few steps out of bed. The condition can worsen and eventually become debilitating.
Runner's Knee also known as chondromalacia patellae. Occurs when your kneecap does not track properly, and the underlying cartilage becomes aggravated and begins to degrade.
Overpronation of the foot (caused by an excessive inward roll of the foot during walking and running) can lead to both of these conditions. It can also cause lower leg pain or shinsplints. I'm really hoping that whatever is going on with my lower leg is treatable, and that it's not going to be a big issue. It's just difficult when you are working hard toward something and find out that you're just not going to be able to reach it. (At least, not for right now).

Taste of Oregon

Blake and I tried a new Pinot Gris last night from a winery in the Willamette Valley called WillaKenzie Estate. I did not know much about Pinot Gris, and was in the mood to experiment. We both really enjoyed it. This type of wine is typically produced in France and Italy, but now some winemakers in the United States are putting forth some serious effort into growing and producing Pinot Gris. It sounds as though many winemakers in Oregon are steering away from Chardonnay, and toward Pinot Gris. http://www.willakenzie.com/ Yesterday at the co-op, and in my quest to find a nice bottle of wine, I found something else from Oregon that I have been searching for (for several months now, actually). Rogue brewery makes a Hazelnut Brown Nectar beer that is to die for. I had it once in Coeur d' Alene at one of our favorite restaurants called Capones. (Excellent place for a pizza and beer!! *sigh*) Anyway, I have been searching for it ever since, but could never find it until now!!

Winter Weather Blahs

Detailed Local Forecast
Tonight: Snow this evening will transition to snow showers late. Some rain or sleet may mix in. Low 32F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. About one inch of snow expected.
Tomorrow: Variable clouds with snow showers or flurries. High 39F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 60%.
Tomorrow night: Rain and snow in the evening. A snow shower or two late - otherwise, mostly cloudy. Low 34F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precip 50%.
Saturday: Cloudy. High 43F. Winds light and variable.
Sunday: Mix of rain and snow showers. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 30s.
Monday: Windy, periods of snow. Highs in the mid 30s with temperatures nearly steady overnite.

Need I say more?

The Apartment Dweller's Garden

Due to the fact that we weren't sure when we would be moving, I figured I may just scratch the idea of having a garden this year. I decided that maybe it would be best to just wait until next spring. Then, I decided to just go for it. I went out and got some "seed incubators" for the unbelievable amount of seeds that I have purchased. Did you realize each seed packet contains like 257 seeds? Hmmm... I didn't. So, when I came home with 4 seed packets of Foxglove, Blake was like "Um, honey? I guess you REALLY like foxglove. Because, we're going to have around 2,000 Foxglove plants!!" Ooops!! Well, I seem to have a problem of overdoing with alot of things, so gardening might as well be one of them, too! Anyway, I have started some seeds for Broccoli, Cauliflower, tomatoes, peppers, foxglove, cosmos, and a couple other flower varieties. Two days later, you can already see some progress. As I was planting, I couldn't help but be amazed that a seed the size of a grain of sand can grow into a beautiful flowering plant, or a plant full of delicious vegetables to be eaten and enjoyed. Blake and I are definitely looking forward to enjoying the fruits of our labor.

French Martinis

Blake and I went out to dinner for his birthday last night. Happy Birthday, Blake!! We discovered a great restaurant in Burlington called Taste. http://www.tasteofburlington.com/ We had the best dinner out since we have moved here. And, I discovered a tasty new martini, the French Martini. Mmmm... to make a French Martini of your own, you will need the following:

2 oz vodka

1/2 oz Chambord

2 1/2 oz pineapple juice

I need to get busy making Blake's chocolate birthday cake. I have a great Vegan Chocolate Cake recipe that is quick and delicious. Especially with the peanut butter frosting!!

Peep Show

Happy Easter... may you have lots of peeps in your basket.

Peeps Fun Facts:

1. It would take over 172 million peeps bunnies end-to-end to circle the moon.

2. The amount of Peeps chicks and bunnies eaten at Easter could more than circle Earth's circumference. That's alot of marshmallow!!!

3. In the early 1950's, it took 27 hours to make one Peeps chick. Today it takes 6 minutes.

4. Over 70 million peeps chicks lined up beak-to-tail are needed to reach from New York City to Los Angeles.

5. Peeps chicks and bunnies come in 5 colors. Yellow chicks are the most popular, followed by pink, lavender, blue and white.

6. Loyal Peeps fans eat them fresh, frozen, stale, and even on pizza!! Ewww.... http://www.marshmallowpeeps.com/ http://www.peepresearch.org/

Blake the Pancake Master

There's nothing better after a long hard day at work than coming home to a fresh batch of Blake's pancakes. The man makes the best tasting pancakes I've ever had in my life. He puts all kinds of good-for-ya ingredients in them like whole wheat flour, wheat germ, and flax seed... He's made some awesome blueberry walnut, pumpkin and banana walnut pancakes which were to die for. And his no-frills batches are always delicious...they'll make your mouth water before you can say "maple syrup". Even better, this time of year we can get some freshly made maple syrup to pour on top. Mmm!!

My First 10K

The town of Saint Albans, Vermont is hosting the annual Vermont Maple Festival at the end of this month. There is an arts and crafts show, lots of food, music, and of course lots of maple syrup. There is also an annual Sap Run, a run which benefits the Run For Jim Foundation. This program helps provide financial support for families in need who have a terminally ill family member. I have never done any kind of a run whatsoever, but it is something that I have always wanted to do, and I am really looking forward to it. I have been running at the gym for the past several months, and to my surprise, really enjoy it. So, since hearing about it, I have been working my way towards this 10K run. It should be great! http://www.vtmaplefestival.org/index.html

The Sweetest Fiance

I have the sweetest fiance on the planet. Our apartment has been a disaster zone from our packing and moving/not moving situation. I got home from work today, and Blake had cleaned out all of the boxes. He rented out a larger storage unit, moved all of our stuff from the old storage unit into the new storage unit, and took four truckloads of stuff out of our apartment into our new and improved storage space. Not only that, but there are two dozen roses sitting on our dining room table. The apartment is clean and the laundry is done. AND... he's taking me out to dinner tonight. Isn't he the sweetest? And, I must say that I am the luckiest woman on the planet.

Home Sweet...what the??

The last couple of days have been interesting, to say the least. To spare you the long and somewhat painful story, it comes down to the fact that our builder made some changes to our well and septic. He got approval through the state, and thought he got the proper approval from the town, but apparently not. So, the town of Fairfax is not going to let us off easy, they are going to make us jump through hoops. This means that we will not be able to move into our house this weekend. We won't be able to move in until probably mid-May. This is a huge bummer because we have been waiting since January. Our lease is up on our apartment April 13th. So, we're thinking we are pretty much homeless for a month, and going to have to find a nice shack to live in. Blake called our landlord to see if there's any way we can stay longer (thinking of course we won't be able to, but it doesn't hurt to ask, because we're totally desperate) Apparently the people who are planning to move in to the apartment can't move in until mid-May. NO WAY!! How lucky is THAT? So, all is well in Bolt-Endeville. What a relief!!