I'm really quite tired today....

Yawn.
(Seriously, I just did.)

I'm really tired today. Not sure why -- but I feel like the life is sucked out of me today. I'd blame it on the full moon - except, there isn't one. Maybe it's an emotional tired. Well, today's horoscope predicts: "Don't under-estimate your own abilities today. You may be feeling like others are a little more in control of your destiny right now. Just remember that you're probably quite capable of working hard and devoting yourself to achieving some larger and more important goals at this time." I guess that's code for "if it's meant to be, it will be" regarding my news from yesterday.

Nothing special planned for this weekend really. Tonight, my TGIF yoga - and then a quiet dinner watching the Sox game. Can't wait. The kids will be long gone to bed by the time of the first pitch. Not that I don't love seeing the kids, because I do -- but it will be great to watch the beginning of the game without hearing "But I want to watch Angelina Ballerina…" Anyway, I had initially hoped to hit Fenway and maybe grab Standing Room Only tickets - but was unable to snag people together. That's okay - I'm pretty tired, as I already pointed out -- and will enjoy watching it from the comfort of my pajamas and fuzzy blanket.

Go Red Sox!
Go Cleveland!

(Listen, I know a Boston/NY series would be AMAZING business for my store, but honestly - I don't think I want to go through the emotional turmoil of another series with them! What, is that a bad thing?!? GO CLEVELAND!!!!!!!!)

So, I guess I got my answer....

Today has been interesting.

Aftermath of last night's Red Sox game - and the BEAUTIFUL pitch Beckett threw to end it all -- was lingering on everyone's conversations this morning, naturally. What a game. And, I really liked the early start
time! Only a half hour earlier than usual, but the game was done by what, 9pm? Plus, the unbelievable pitching didn't hurt any to speed up the game. I sort of liked that!

This morning, the body of Corporal Ciara Durkin came through Hanscom this morning, en route to her funeral. We all went outside to pay our respects -- which is a sombering way to start the day. It's always emotional for me, to see the families look at all of us watching them -- from within their limousine.


Moving on to the mid morning, I had a nice morning work wise. Not a heavy workload, a little customer support, nothing too mindbending which is always a good thing. And, I got to see some of my friends who work
in the other office that I don't get to see hardly ever because I don't stop by usually. But - then again, neither do they - stop by my area either...! But I digress....it was nice to have a change of scenery and sit in someone else's cube for a little while.

Which brings me to the worst part of my day thus far. Right before I was going to go to lunch w. my girl friends from work to celebrate a birthday -- I got an email. With clarification. And resolution. And finalization.

My venture is a dead deal. I'm so disappointed, you can't possibly imagine. THIS close.... And it all fell apart.
Truthfully, that's what happens when one isn't honest about their financials -- I mean, you can't expect a person to risk a chance on something that isn't stable. Just be honest. If you're on a decline, just state it. Don't make it come out at the last second before the deal is finalized.

I know that means that it "wasn't meant to be". And that it's better to find out now rather than later. Other opportunities will come - and I know when the right one does it will be for the right reason. I know
all the cliches and sayings and I get the whole optomistic outlook. I LIVE the optomistic outlook.

But, none of that makes me feel any better at the moment. And for once, I'm going to wallow for just a moment in some sadness of almost having the opportunity that I wanted -- happen.

I'm all about the scents...

So, I've mentioned this before -- I'm very serious about my showers.
They're my only true sense of alone time, outside of my commute to work.
I long them long, hot and steamy.
They are by far, the longest part of my getting ready each day.
Total indulgence.

Soaps and shower gels are not only about cleanliness, but they're about
moisturizing - and for me ...a happy smell.
There's nothing like a yummy flavored smelling soap that makes me feel
absolutely amazing.
And I like to mix it up. I don't use the same soap brand, bar after
bar. That, would get boring. I change brands each time I open a new
bar.
Or change scents, at a minimum.

Right now, I'm using this Strawberry Guava Exfoliating bar; who makes it
escaping me at the moment, but it's this super thick bar of soap with
oatmeal in it for awesome exfoliation and it just smells delicious. I
also really like using Paul Mitchell Tree Tea Special Shampoo as a
shower gel.
Try it -- you'll totally understand why.

One of my girlfriends has gotten me obsessed with goat milk soap. It's
from this little company in NH, and they're called Stormy Moon Farm (
http://www.stormymoonfarm.com/). Their website does no justice because
it doesn't list all the flavors (also known as scents) - but trust me
when I tell you - amazing. And, they leave your skin so soft. She
picked up 4 bars for me over the weekend in the following delicious
"flavors": Very Vanilla, Vanilla Almond, Vanilla Lavendar, and Vanilla
Sugar. Plus, they're packaging is very fun...the soaps are wrapped in
pretty little fabric quarters.

Not only does a girl need to be clean - she needs to smell good too!
And that really is just a little thing to make me happy.
It truly doesn't take much.

Thoughts for Tuesday...

1. Britney Spears losing her kids. Here's what I don't get. There are thousands of children who are being abused on a regular basis -- and I mean god awful abuse -- not just "hanging out with mom at inappropriate hours"; and those Mothers never seem to lose their children. Why is that? It takes years of abuse claims and investigations - and more often than not, it's a child's death or horrible torture that will bring a case to light. But Britney - well, she's clearly a risk to her children's health and well being. Her poor eating habits, bad sense of fashion - and abuse of alcohol clearly means that she is unfit to be a mother. Now, I'm not saying that I think she's fit to have custody of her children, because I don't. At least not in this stage of the game. And as devastated as she might be appearing, I'm sure deep down inside there is a sigh of relief going on for her. Clearly motherhood cuts into "fun time". I mean, it's not as if she can't afford nannies and other people to raise her children for her while she's partying it up and being irresponsible. And what's really sad about it all, outside of the fact that her children will forever see the beginnings of their life and the horror show their mother has become chronicled for everyone to see on every possible medium available -- is that there are single moms in this world every where who are "doing it right". Raising their children, putting themselves first and sacrificing what they need to, in an effort to keep their children as happy, healthy and positive as they possibly can. Not only is Britney Spears a disappointment within the music industry, she's dissapointing as a woman who made a conscious decision to bring two children into the world. And she's old enough to know better. And if she isn't smart enough, well she sure has enough money to buy people to be around her, who are.

2. There's too much good television now! I finally caught the last half of "Dexter" during the half time of the Pats game. Good stuff. But I can't keep up with all the stuff that's on right now! I've got 2 episodes now of "Heroes" that I need to catch up on. I did really enjoy the season premiere of "Grey's Anatomy", and can I just tell you -- as much as I love McDreamy, I love love love George. Something about that little puppy dog look he's got just warms my heart. What I didn’t love was "Private Practice". Addison used to be this strong, smart, sassy cookie - and now she's more like Rachel from Friends. Ugh, too cutesy. I'll try to give it another week or so, but I might have to cut it off at the knees. Never mind that it's Soxtober - and Pat's season! A busy girl like myself doesn't have all the time in the world to watch televison, so "Private Practice" better step it up - or it's not going to make the cut!

3. Is "no news" really good news? I'm a little frustrated that I haven't heard either "yes" or "no" regarding my potential venture. One would think that a "no" would come far quicker, so that the delayed reaction might be percieved as positive - meaning one might be chewing on a decision. But I'm chomping at the bit myself to get resolution. I hate the waiting game. Hate it.

4. I'm starving today. It's like all I can think about is food. Could be the communal work area that I'm in, where food smells great one minute - crappy the next. One person's rigatoni and sausage leftovers smell amazing….mix it with another's left over fish (that was clearly frozen given the distinct odor) and voila - instant nose burn. Ugh. But seriously, I'm starving. I have to leave early today to pick up a cake and gift for a co-worker's birthday tomorrow, otherwise -- I'd be tempted to go to the sushi restaurant up the street. But no time today. So... I'm toying with making poached salmon w. a horseradish cream sauce for dinner, with baked sweet potato slices - and a salad.

I'm sorry -- did I mention I'm hungry….?

Happy Monday...

Surprisingly, today is really a happy Monday.
It's gorgeous out...the day is flying by thus far -- and I had a great
weekend.

Yesterday, I ran a 5k - only my second one thus far, but I did pretty
decent considering. I ran alone again, which is kind of tough to do
when you're hitting a patch of hill - or have a side stitch; it's nice
to have someone keeping you motivated. But I finished in 30:14 seconds,
which comes out to 9:58 a mile -- basically a 10 minute mile. I felt
great to have accomplished it - and beat my time from the last one I
ran. I could've had a better time, but I had a few side stitches - and
it wasn't entirely flat, so the uphill part was slowing me down. It's
funny, at the second mile marker I'm thinking "why did I do this?" and
then by mile 3, I feel great.

Afterwards, we went apple picking at someplace different this year.
Normally I take the kids to Applecrest in NH (www.applecrest.com) - and
I'll go up there maybe next weekend for just the fesitval, or fall some
pumpkin picking; but for this time - we went to Nashoba Valley Winery
(www.nashobawinery.com) in beautiful Bolton MA. It was nice -- they had
a barbecue and some entertainment for the kids; and the place itself is
just beautiful. What's so great about it too, is that drinking is
allowed on the premises, so you can have beer or wine while you're
hanging out. I didn't have any - but the option is there which is
great. I definitely would like to go back and try some of their
inventory.

Anyway - on an apple note, I was thrilled because instead of
the regular old Cortland and Macintosh apples - we got Gala apples!
They're my absolutely favorite - they're bright pink and yellow - and
they're unbelievably sweet. Not every place has them...and we filled
our bag with almost 80% Gala, and about 20% Macintosh. YUM! And then
of course, we finished with "dinner" at Colonial Candies (formerly
Herberts: http://www.judysbook.com/members/7946/posts/2005/7/18355/),
where we made our own sundaes.
(Am I the coolest Mom ever or what?)

I was so tired last night I couldn't even finish watching the premiere
of "Dexter". Thank god for DVR.

So anyway, tonight is supposed to be a crisp autumn night with
temperatures dipping down into the 40s, so I'm thinking this is going to
be a good night to light up the fireplace. A little beef stew and
biscuits for dinner - and then some Monday Night Football.

Not such a terrible way to start the week, wouldn't you agree?

Good Morning Red Sox Nation...!

One word for this morning: C-c-c-linch!

You know, a few weeks ago I wrote about how much I love the fall and all the things that come with it. One of the things I neglected to mention, (intentionally so as not to jinx!) is October baseball.

I was driving home last night from a jewlery party when I heard the news. The game was on in the background so I didn't get to watch it in it's entirety, but obviously I was keeping an eye on things. I knew the Yankees were up on their game, and so I figured "well, maybe tomorrow night". But as I was leaving, they flashed on the screen an image of Joe Torre walking to the pitcher's mound and I thought "hmm. That's weird. They can't possibly have blown their lead? I wonder...." but didn't get to actually tell what was going on until after I dropped a girlfriend of mine home and turned on WEEI.

And now, I'm thoroughly exhausted. Because I went to bed far later than I should've.
But who can resist all the footage?

Busy weekend, might I add - baseball aside. Today's dance class, and soccer. And then tomorrow I'm running in a 5k in the morning, and then heading out apple picking. Which means...apple pie and apple crisp on Sunday night!

Monday is going to come far too soon I think...

Okay, so this isn't exactly the way I hoped the picture of Jason Varitek and Moi would've turned out...

But there is a story as to why it's not the beautiful, photograph I'd always hoped it would be.

At the Beckett Bowl, I was probably no more than 5 feet away from him while he was bowling. And we did have eye contact.

Not in the "hey, how YOU doing" kind of way that I would like to fantasize that it was; but more in the way of we were so close and not alot of people were there at that very moment that we had no choice but to meet eyes occasionally. But I felt silly, because I could only sort of say "hi" with a quiet smile so many times before I felt like a weirdo! So, there were all these little girls asking him for a photo. And I thought to myself, "Rebecca, don't be ridiculous. It's just a photo. Ask him for one." So, I did.

Mind you, we weren't on the same level, standing wise. I'd be much shorter than him - even shorter than the picture appears. I'm 5'1 and he's what - 6'2? I was up on a step, and there was a thin piece of board that seperated us, because he was bowling in the lane -- so I had to sort of lean to be right next to him, you know? And of course, I was so nervous I was clearly unsteady. (He does sort of have that effect on me.)

But the real kicker to this, is that while he said "yes" - I had no one with me at that moment to take the picture. My sister wasn't there yet, my brother in law was bouncing the lane that David Ortiz was bowling in, so clearly he couldn't help me. So I asked some random stranger to help - and while they were obliged to do so, they couldn't figure out my camera. So, now I'm thinking "damn it, this is taking too long, he's going to say forget it!" - when suddenly the camera goes off.

I just knew it wasn't going to be a good one, but what's a girl to say?

"Hi, I know you're very busy, but...can I get a retake? I've always thought when I met you we'd take this really beautiful photo together that I could treasure forever..."

Um, no - I think not.

So here is the picture of me and "my crush" that I've been waiting years for.
And I look ridiculous. Not a good photo of me at all. He looks great, of course.


















AAAAAAAAAGh.

(I still think we look cute together, despite my wild eyed look of desperation - "please let the flash go off, please!")

Mommy and Me time...

I'm home playing domestic supergoddess because my sitter is out sick today and tomorrow. Love love love these days, because it affords me a little alone time between myself and my daughter. Which doesn't get to happen very often, because she's the "second" child.

It's not often that I'm home, and both of my children aren't home as well. My son, always got lots of quality alone time because it was always just him; but my daughter never got the same "one on one" because well - she's the "second" child. Her brother is almost always around. Which isn't a bad thing, but I think sometimes that is part of the reason why she's as fiesty as she is. I think she feels the need for the individualized attention. And we all know, negative attention is just as effective as positive attention when one is seeking it.

This isn't to say that my little Princess Petunia gets ignored, because not only is that not the case - she wouldn't allow it to be as such either. She's quite demanding of everyone's focus. However, while my son is now in school full time, I'm really enjoying the girl time that she and I get to spend, if I am home with her.

Today, my son has a half day - and we're all going to go to Barnes & Noble after playing outside, because he wants to buy a new book. And I think Mommy and Sister could use a little something something from there as well. So while today, she and I have had some quiet time, tomorrow we get a full day of girl time.

Maybe a little nail polish...a little shoe shopping. You know, girl stuff.
Maybe even a stop in to Mom's work to visit everyone.

These are the days that make me really long for this venture to come through.
Though after the letter that was drafted and delivered this morning, I'm not so sure it will happen. We shall see.

In the mean time, think happy thoughts. Girl time. Nail Polish. DSW......Red Sox.

Music. Television. Sports.

September is overwhelming on an entertainment level at the moment.

So many great television shows debuting and premiering; some great music has been released this month that I'm trying like crazy to get my hands on.

And then of course, there's baseball and football.

What's a girl to do? So much to choose from, so little time!

Tonight's all eyes on the Sox game, naturally. But this week is still going to be crazy -- between baseball, Private Practice, Grey's Anatomy, and the Contender - just to name a few. Never mind that I'm still playing catch up on "Rescue Me" via DVR. Oh, and Dexter is starting next week on Showtime. I re-watched the finale last night so that I can be all caught up for the season premiere. I love intelligent television. (Which reminds me, last night I watched the latest Bill Mahr on HBO, and whether you love him or hate him, his monologues at the end are always so very good.)

Boy, am I lucky that Noggin and PBS Sprout doesn't debut new shows this regularly.

Politics, sports, intelligent drama and of course - a little McDreamy fluff in between.

Tell me, does it get much better than that?

Everything happens for a reason...

This is the mantra I tell myself all the time.

And today is one of those days that I have to say it. Again. And again.

A little snag is coming up in my new venture. And it is all hanging in the balance in the moment. Part of the reason of why I'm being so vague is because well…sometimes I'm superstitious and think that if I speak too soon - it won't come to fruition at all.

(Sort of like watching a baseball game. If I haven't been watching and the Sox are up when I turn it on - and then start to slip, I change the channel thinking "its because I'm watching!". Or, during the playoffs - if I'm wearing a certain tshirt while watching the game, I won't wear any other tshirt while watching because it's got some sort of "luck" associated with it. While I know rationally and logically that can't possibly be the case…I still can't risk it! But I digress...)

Which is when I have to remind myself that "everything happens for a reason".
If it’s meant to be – it will be.

And if not, then something else was meant to be.

It’s just frustrating because I am THIS close to it, and I am really excited about it.

And, that doesn’t mean it isn’t going to happen. It just means it’s in the balance at the moment.


I can’t wait to run after work so I can shake some of this anxiety and think quiet, happy thoughts.

Change is in the air....

"Success doesn't come to you…you go to it." Marva Collins

"The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will." Vincent T. Lombardi

"Success is a journey, not a destination." Ben Sweetland

"The difference between failure and success is doing a thing nearly right and doing a thing exactly right." Edward Simmons

"I believe the greater the handicap, the greater the triumph." John H. Johnson

"Success is not permanent. The same is also true of failure." Dell Crossword

"Unless you're willing to have a go, fail miserably, and have another go, success won't happen." Phillip Adams

Hi, I'm Rebecca...and I'm an addict.

It's true.
I've mentioned it before.  I’m a mascara addict.
 
I went to the mall at lunch today with a girlfriend, just to pick up a skirt at Ann Taylor that the sales rep forgot to put in my bag.  (Oh yes, imagine my horror last night when I went to go try it on, and it was gone!).  I swear that's all I went for.

Well, maybe that and this new MAC lipglass that I just love love love:  CHAI LIPGLASS
http://www.maccosmetics.com/templates/products/search_results.tmpl?KEYWORDS=chai

But that was it - I swear.

My girlfriend however, wanted to go to Sephora.  And while we were there, we engaged in a conversation as to how to make her eyes look larger.  And that turned into the sales rep giving her a cosmetic application.  Which in turn caused my fascination to mascara to bear it's ugly little head when I heard my own voice leave my body and ask "so….what kind of mascara is that you're using?". 

Truth be told, I sort of hoped she'd say it was something like Dior or Givenchy - brands I've already tried and been disappointed with.  But no.  She says a name I'm entirely unfamiliar with….and my breath catches in my throat.  I hear myself say, "hmmm.  I'd like to try some."  

Now, mind you that I put it on over my already decent mascara - but, this is amazing.  A -- mazing.  So good, I got three unsolicited compliments from people in the store who had no idea that I was planning on buying mascara.  I was already mentally committed but after comments, it was a no brainer.

TOO FACED LASH INJECTION
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P168368&categoryId=B70

SOLD to the blonde girl who's just a sucker for mascara!

I don't think I could've gotten any more irritated last night...

So here's a question I have for Terry Francona - who I always really,
really, really like - and almost always understand and respect his
decisions.
"What the FLIP were you thinking last night?"

And the game before that.
And...the last game Dice K pitched, before that one.

Eric Gagne? In a one run game?!
I mean, c'mon! This morning, one of my co-workers was like "Wow, you're
awfully hard on the guy. I know he hasn't pitched well this season, but
look at his body of work."
Okay. John Madden had an amazing body of work -are you going to have
him play for the Patriots?
I think not.

Pitchers are pitching their heart out, hitters are really trying to put
it together and make the plays happen -- and sometimes you've gotta be
able to see that the pitcher on the mound is struggling!
Hell, if I can see it....how come Terry can't?!?
Seriously.

Today is September 19th, and after the season we've had - I should not
be feeling this unhappy or this uncertain.
Thank God Clay Bucholz is pitching tonight.

Off Sox topic, the Yankee's middle relief pitcher - Joba Chamberlain
really irks me.
I get that he's got an amazing fast ball. And I know his Dad is awfully
proud.
I just hope that he's a better person off the field than he seems on the
field, because wow, I really don't like him.
At all.

And there are my random baseball thoughts for today. I hope Red Sox
nation is a happier place to be tomorrow.

DSW is definitely a girls best friend...

It is so hard not to get overwhelmed going into DSW.
I'm amazed I used as much restraint as I did.

Today was the first day I wore boots with a skirt - which means:

1.)It's officially autumn, and 2.) Boot Season has begun.
Oh yeah baby.

So, I didn't find the boots I initially went there to get. See, I have
a decent selection of boots at home, so for me to buy a pair I sort of
want them to be out of the ordinary.
Dare I say, extraordinary?
And there were none there that were really grabbing me.

But......

I did find some fun shoes, that I should've bought - but didn't.
Which clearly means that I have to stop there on my way home.
(What a coincidence! I drive right by there!)

Which might make me feel better since I feel like I'm coming down with a
cold.
Mindblowing to me, considering I just got over flipping pneumonia!

But I'm feeling so "blah", that I'm thinking a very fun pair of shoes --
and a not so extraordinary pair of boots, might just be what I need to
put a little spring back into my step!

Joyeux anniversaire à moi...

So, I ask myself as another birthday arrives - "Does the number of years old I am define me?".
The answer, surprisingly enough….is no. And yes.

It does not define me in the superficial sense.  I think outwardly, age is merely a number.  It's your state of mind and how you care for yourself -- and about yourself -- that presents your outward appearance.  And truly, what does your outward appearance really mean?  A clothing size doesn't truly represent who I am as a person - nor does the color of my hair.  It's what's inside of me that comes through on the outside - at least I hope it does anyway.

But it does define me as being a woman who's proud of where she's been in life -- and where I'm going in the future.
If it wasn't for the years under my belt, I may not have had the patience and where withall to be the mother that I am to my children.  Or the business woman that I am both in my profession on base -- and with my business ventures. 

While the 30s are the new 20s - I'm proud to be "thirty-something".  While I've always been hardworking and mature for my age, I think I'm far more grounded and centered now than in my younger years.  I've learned the difference between being right, to just sometimes letting things go.  I don't always have to be the one to fix people.  I've learned to accept people for who they are - and that I don't have to always be the one in control.  I've learned that no one can make me feel badly about who I am - unless I let them.  This is the kind of wisdom that I did not necessarily have in my twenties.

Now, despite my virtous thoughts on how outward appearance does not matter - that's not to say that I don't feel very happy when people don't think I look my age.  Or course I do.  But no matter how youthful I appear, inside I’m still the same girl who's constantly growing, constantly learning - and constantly reaching back into the vault of experience for inner advice on how to react to situations in life.   And looks don't last forever.  Time will catch up with me at some point, and that's okay too.

Though the Sox didn't sweep the Yankees (please don't get me started!), the Patriots did knock the Chargers all over the place.  And, I DID get my picture taken with (sigh) Jason a few days okay.  (That I will post at some point.)

Not such a bad way to kick off a new year in the chapter of my life!
So Happy Birthday to Me!

Dancing Queen...

Today was my daughter's first day of dance class.



















Be still my little heart, she was adorable. Tap & Ballet - and she loved it.

It's funny how there are some kids that just love to dance, and are the leaders in their group. That would be my daughter. Her and another little girl (not pictured here) were the leaders of their little dance class.

I can hardly wait for next week. Especially since there are many more leotards and little dance skirts for her to wear! I think it's almost more fun for me in some ways than for her!

We're having a play date in my house today with one of my son's friends. They're so cute - they almost look like brothers, both blonde with spiked hair. They both have soccer games this afternoon, but I told his Mom that truthfully my son might sit today's game out with it being rainy. To me, missing a soccer game because of the weather is far less important than to miss school because of being sick from playing in the rain. He's only 6 - and we're not talking World Cup soccer here.

So, a little laundry....a little fun w/ the kids, and hopefully a little quiet time with the hubby (with sushi!) will be on the agenda for tonight. Of course, the Yankees game.

(Which, ugh - I went to bed last night before the last inning that we blew up in. I thought "it will be okay, we're far enough ahead to go to bed. WRONG. Please, don't get me started....)

Beckett Bowl 2007: The aftermath...

I have to say, I had the BEST time at the Beckett Bowl last night.As opposed to listing who was there - it's almost better to say, "who wasn't there?!?!?"


Mixing and mingling with everyone from Big Papi and Josh Beckett to Paul Pierce and Matt Cassel, to John Henry and Randy Moss was pretty amazing.
Pretty, pretty amazing.

The best part of the evening for me, was watching Jason Varitek - whom I had no idea was going to be there, might I add - bowl. And...having my picture taken with him!
Yes. It happened.

And what is sort of a dissapointment about that for me - is that I look like a deer in the headlights in the picture!
He of course, looks....sigh. Handsome.

I was so very nervous to even ask. And then the flash wasn't working, and I was afraid it was going to take too long, yada yada yada. So needless to say, I look pretty silly in it.
But that's okay. I'm still framing it.

I have to say, everyone who was there was unbelievably kind to everyone and consummate class acts. No one acted as if they were "celebrities", which really just added to the excitement of the night. When everyone is accessible, and you're all together in an area just mixing it up, it's so much fun.

I tried to bid on things in the silent auction, but my max limit was $600 for many items; things were going for thousands. But, at least I had fun trying to throw my hat in the ring.

Hats off to the Beckett Foundation for putting together such a fun event. And my old stomping grounds, "Rayn" which is the old "Town Line" did a really great job as well... It was definitely a fun night, and not such a bad way to celebrate my last weekend at my present age!

Pictures will be posted tomorrow...!

Better than the rest...

So I have to say, I'm dissapointed in the Patriots organization at the moment.

I mean, I get that "all the teams do it".
The question I pose is: but if all the other teams in the NFL jumped off a bridge…would you follow them?

Isn't that the basic rule of character, independence and ethics that we teach to our children?
Does it not follow suit in professional sports?

And better yet -- aren't the Patriots above doing what "all the other teams" are doing? Doesn't the Kraft Family and Bill Belicheck pride themselves with the fact that they operate in a manner that is upright, honest and respectful?

The thought process of everyone showing the Pats "no respect" and under estimating them all the time, I was under the impression always inspired them to work harder, play better and continuously prove that they're head and shoulders above the "other" teams, both on the field and as an organization.

Yet, unfortunately - the Pats are the ones who got caught being "like everyone else", which only leads to an unfortunate lack of respect from those who were already looking for them to falter.

It's almost as if they're the Yankees..the "evil empire" within the NFL. The bully on the block that everyone wants to see knocked down by the little guy. And while some if it is totally chalked up to "jealousy", because no one wants to see the same team win all the time (although, us Pats fans do!) -- jealousy only goes so far when ethics and integrity get called on the carpet, and unfortunately - deservedly so.

I can think of a million arguments as to why this shouldn't be a big deal. I can certainly justify it. But the core of the matter is that, whether it helped the team win games or not - it is a big deal. It's cheating. Plain and simple.

I just don't see how the Patriots organization are going to be able to come out of this in a positive light.

Last to know...

So. Funny thing about working for the government…they tend to keep us in the dark.


We (the collective "we" meaning myself and my fellow co workers for our organization) found out this morning by an article in the Lowell Sun - that our building is going to be torn down.
Why? Great question! That's what we wanted to know.

Apparently, our building is loaded with asbestos. Did not pass a Life and Health test and is considered "unfit" for it's current use. Therefore, by an overwhelming vote of 94-1, Congress granted Hanscom something in the area of $12.8 milliion to build a new building.

I'd really like to know who the "1" vote against it was. Because if I come down with Cancer, I'd like to let them know about it.

It is pretty disgusting in my building. And whenever the HVAC is turned on, this rancid smell fills the air. Smells like "sour ass", which is quite the joke amongst my co workers and I. But that is the perfect descriptor for it. Think of it as tasting wine…top notes, and bottom notes. Top note is sour…bottom note is clearly ass. And I'm a Mom who has changed many a diaper in my life, I'm qualified to know what ass smells like.

So, we're probably going to be displaced into another building once construction starts. I personally hope it's the MITRE complex because they have always had the BEST cafeteria. To go back to having scrambled egg whites and fresh fruit every morning is enough to make me fantasize about the building being shut down, like tomorrow. But I digress….

What's so disconcerting is that powers that be at Hanscom haven't divulged to us - the employees - that we're working in unsafe health conditions. How disturbing is that?

Pretty darn disturbing if you ask me.

One of my favorite things about harvest season...

You know, its really no surprise to me why I love September and the harvest season so much.
It's all about....food.

Coming up, there are so many fairs and festivals - I'm beside myself with trying to fit them all in. Because we must go to as many as we can, you know!

There's the Bolton Fair, the Topsfield Fair, Applecrest Corn Roasts and Harvest Festivals, Verrill Farm Fall festivals, the list goes on and on! I can't resist the opportunity to be out in the still warm sun, cool air and smell all the apples from the orchards and corn cooking. It's got to be my favorite thing about this time of year. I'm sure we'll be apple picking at least twice this year. And pumpkin picking....I'm hungry just thinking of all the baking I'll be doing. (Which is rather funny since I've mentioned on many an occasion that baking is not my strong suit. But you know - these things with fruits aren't cakes normally. So I'm okay with them! But I digress...)

So while it's too warm and too early for me to think about "autumn", it's not too early to think about "harvest" - and all the warm, fuzzy comfort feelings that come with it.

So much excitement....

It's a gorgeous Friday outside. And it's the beginning of a relatively whirlwind type of weekend for this girl.

My mom is flying in this afternoon! I'm not sure if I'll get to see her this evening or not, but that is okay because I'll see her most of the rest of the weekend. Of course, I've got my much needed Yoga after work! (Ommmmmm) And then it's off to pick up my son's soccer uniform. Other than that - once the kids are in bed, tonight will probably be relatively quiet and low key.

Tomorrow, It's the 108 Sun Salutations for the Jimmy Fund! You have no idea how much I'm looking forward to this. I'm really excited about the prospect of pushing myself physically, and to anyone who knows or practices yoga - 108 Sun Salutations is definitely going to be a challenge! My son's first soccer game of the season is tomorrow as well; after that, my sister and her family, my cousins and their families, my aunt and my Mom will be at my house for Chinese food. What's better than Chinese food with your family? Not much! The day's events make my having to forgo the Buffett concert that much easier...

Sunday - after the Patriots game (assuming I'm still able to walk!), is the much awaited Barry Manilow concert. The 4 of us girls (Me, my Aunt, my Mom and my Sister) are heading to the Fleet Center, and then off for late night appetizers and night caps.

Whether your weekend is going to be busy like mine, or quiet and low key - I hope it's fantastic!

If only I was a lyricist...

You'll remember me when the west wind moves
Upon the fields of barley
You can tell the sun in his jealous sky
When we walked in fields of gold...

I need some shelter of my own protection baby
To be with myself instead of calamity...
Peace, Serenity

She just might get you lost
And she just might leave you torn
But she just might save your soul
If she gets you any closer..

Is it any wonder I'm tired?
Is it any wonder that I feel uptight?
Is it any wonder I don't know what's right?
Oh, these days, after all the misery made,
Is it any wonder that I feel afraid?
Is it any wonder that I feel betrayed?

And I'm juggling all the thoughts in my head
I'm juggling and my fear's on fire
but I'm listening as it evolves in my head
I'm balancing on one fine wire...

If heaven and hell decide
That they both are satisfied
Illuminate the "no's" on their vacancy signs
If there's no one beside you
When your soul embarks
Then I'll follow you into the dark ...

I just don't get the media...

So this morning as I was getting ready for work, I flipped away from my usual "Sports Desk" on NESN and somehow landed on CNN. I was watching a telecast of the recently arrested terrorists who were planning attacks at either Frankfurt airport or Ramstein AB in Germany. According to the reports, these were "no joke" terrorists who were found planning a large scale attack with a hefty amount of explosives and detonating devices. I for one, am so very thankful that other countries are diligent in their efforts to thwart terrorist attacks. I often wonder how we managed to be unscathed as we had, for so long…

In any event, the thing that really irked me while watching this, was that in big yellow letters was this caption:
"Why Germany?"

Um, hello.
Why not Germany?

For those of you who haven't quite woken up to the concept of terrorism, (which clearly those at CNN haven't figured this out yet) - here's a little " Fundamentalist Psych 101" for you: terrorists hate everyone. Sure, they use the USA as their best form of propoganada because we're easy tartgets! I mean, yes we stand for mostly everything that they disagree with - however, they know that everyone will jump on the "Big Bad Bully USA" bandwagon. And that makes it easier for them to be able to attack other people in other countries - because then their guards are down. "They don't hate us - it's the Americans they hate". Wrong my friends.

Sure, you can all think it's the "American targets" in these countries that they're after; think again. There is no fallout without casualties - and casualties in other countries aren't all American. Ding, ding, ding! This is an equal opportunity hate. They hate the British, the German, the French, the Africans -- they hate their own fellow religion members who don't go along with their thought processes. They're fundamental fanatics - and yes, they hate you.

Terrorismus beeinflußt jeder.

Le terrorisme affecte chacun.

Il terrorismo interessa tutto.

Террорисм влияет на каждое.

Terrorism affects everyone.

Jalapeno Blueberry Pumpkin...

Yesterday at the craft show, there was a booth set up that I couldn't
help but be drawn to.

Tyler's Sweet Revenge.
<http://www.tylerssweetrevenge.com/>

You MUST get yourself some.
Now. Stop what you're doing - click on the link and order yourself
some!

I bought "Maine Wild Blueberry Jam". It's like nothing else I've ever
seen or tasted.

Sweet..but not too sweet. And it's all baby blueberries! Not blended
into a smooth jam, it's like having little blueberries burst in your
mouth as you eat your peanut butter sandwich. Which is exactly what
they do. (Which is one of my all time favorite sandwiches, might I add.

I mean, I love fou fou sandwiches - but nothing beats a good ol'
fashioned comfort food sandwich of Skippy peanut butter and some good
jelly or jam. But I digress....)

"Pumpkin Butter", is like eating pumpkin pie out of a jar. Oh yeah
baby. (A little Emeril imitation there for you.) Spread some of that
bad boy on a piece of toast - and it's like heaven.

But my favorite, which I proceeded to eat a half of a jar of last night
with some Triscuits (what, is that bad??) - is the Jalapeno Pepper
Jelly.

Say it with me: "Yummmmm".
(Not to be confused with "Ommmm" - but I think it's the same euphoric
feeling!)

God, I just love food.
Which reminds me, I'm hopefully going to the Beckett Bowl - and two
celebrity chefs are going to be there.

What are the chances of my being able to dish food with them?
Probably slim to none, but hey - stranger things have happened!

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star....

My digital camera is lousy with a slow flash so it was really tough to get a good picture of the "little girl". This picture is decieving because she's a peanut! Only 2.5 lbs, and 12 weeks old! Tres Petite, is little Twinkle.

She's a little Tortoiseshell Longhair, and she's so pretty. This picture does her no justice. And such a snuggle bunny! Spike, who is now just under a year - is huge, and very affectionate, but not in a kissy kind of way - he never was. But she comes right up and kisses you smack on the nose! Really just a love and fits in great with the other pets in the house! Love love love MSCPA.

Today, I ended up taking the kids to Topsfield Fair, where we had a great time at their annual Labor Day craft show. There was a fun Buffett cover band, Cocabanana playing - and they pulled the kids on stage to play the tamborine and maracas. I was laughing so hard. They invited "Mom" on stage too - but clearly, I declined. I'm getting shy in my old age... They took pictures so I'm hoping they post them on their website because my cell phone did them no justice.

And...I found the PERFECT girls night in party. So can't wait to plan this. "Adore Me" will come to my house, mix perfume fresh right there! You can make your own scent - or one of the signature scents that's already created! They'll mix it into body creams and butters, shower gels, or even candles - right there! I almost bought some today that was premade, but I'd so much rather have a party and do it then. It all smelled so yummy. Can't wait - I'm thinking that the end of this month, or early next month is going to be an "Adore Me" get together at this girl's house!

The kids are soaking themselves in the bath...the new kitten is snuggled in my lap....the Red Sox hade a magnificent weekend (I'm sorry, did I mention how amazing Jason Varitek is???). All in all, a really nice weekend that I'm sort of sad to see end.