Catching Up

Boy, it really has been a long time since I have updated my blog. I really don't have a reason or an explanation, but I vow to be more diligent in posting.

So much has happened, and fortunately much of it has been good. We are planning a wedding in our family and it is an exciting time. On the day that my stepdaughter Jen graduated from college, her boyfriend Tom popped the question. We were there to share in the happiness of their special day and even captured it on video.

So, they have moved into a new home and Jen has started Optometry school in addition to planning the wedding. She has her hands full. I am trying to find that balance between being helpful and being obtrusive, and I have to admit that it is a difficult task. I hope it gets easier over time, but I am not so sure.

As for me, I have been participating in a Weight Watchers lifestyle, and to date I have lost 64 pounds. My husband has been participating along with me, and his weight loss is about the same as mine. His dietary changes have meant that his gall bladder distress has been eliminated and he has more energy. I have not been as fortunate. This has been a struggle for me physically as I have been experiencing severe unexplained joint and muscle pain. So, while I really should be feeling better, I am actually feeling worse. I am told that my body will eventually catch up with all the changes and that the distress will level out. I certainly hope so, and so, I endure.

Snow Day

The short and dreary days of winter are known for sending people into hibernation mode. We had a lovely break over the last two days-blue-ish skies and warm weather that made me delight in going outdoors.

And now it is lightly snowing, just to remind us that it really is winter. I actually enjoy the snow-watching it fall as I sit in the sun room , curled up in a blanket with a book and sipping cup of coffee. The snow blankets the barren wilderness and glistens in the trees. That is when I feel the most impact of my surroundings.

I am fully stocked with break, milk, hot cocoa and ice melt-the snow storm staples. We have a ton of firewood indoors to keep us warm. So, let it snow!

Yesterday was Groundhog Day, and although MY resident groundhogs did not make an appearance, I was visited by George and Gracie, my returning pair of geese. They were walking across the iced over pond looking for a place to swim. They were later joined by a family of deer and another pair of geese. I hope that I never lose the sense of wonder and enjoyment that I feel when I take in the complex simplicity of nature.

Happy Birthday Bobby

Last night I attended a tribute to the Scottish poet Robert Burns. The celebration included Scottish country dancers, Pipe & Drums and a tin whistle followed by the presentation of the HAGGIS and numerous toasts.

I was reluctant to attend, but I have to say that it was good fun. It was my first taste of haggis, and it is an acquired taste for sure. But there was also Shepherd's pie, bangers, meat pie turnips and carrots & peas and boiled potatoes. So there was plenty to eat.

It was really good fun. Something different for sure.

New Year

A little late, but Happy New Year to all. Life has been very busy-in a good way. I am happy to report that all is well.

Well, actually, it would have been better if the Eagles had won the game today. They would have gone on to the Superbowl. So today I will pack away my Eagles coffee mugs and other paraphernalia as well as my McNabb jersey and get ready for spring. That means painting the kitchen. We have put it on our agenda for next weekend. Unless something more exciting comes along.

Some changes that I am planning for 2009 that I will share. I never did get to go parasailing in '08, so it is on the To Do list as soon as the weather warms up. And I have increased my F bomb jar contribution to $5.00 per incident. Lucky for me, I haven't had to make any deposits yet this year. Tough luck for the Howell Food Pantry-the recipient of my donations. I am proud of myself.

I am also experimenting with the perfect paella. Last weekend's attempt was mediocre. I really have to keep working at it until I get it right. It is all about the rice-the protein stuff is easy. The rice takes patience-something that I am lacking. That is one of the reasons that I chose this exercise. So, I will keep you all updated on my progress.

For those of you who have trouble achieving your goals, Fran & I have posted the SMART goals on our blog. So check it out if you are interested or email me at coachcaprio@yahoo.com.