Merry Christmas to me and my driveway. Just wanted everyone to see my delightful present only picture it on a Jeep Wrangler. I would have much rather gone on a vacation, or spent money on the house or myself, or bought tons more presents. But, it works great and BF won't have to look or feel like the abominable snowman the next time the white stuff appears.

I just finished the new Tony Hillerman mystery The Shape Shifter. Joe Leaphorn, recently retired, is back pounding the long roads of the Navajo Res. The story involves a Navajo rug that was made during the Long Walk and is known to be disaster for anyone who deals with it. Supposedly, it burned up in a fire way back when Leaphorn was just starting out. The case is closed and the clues pretty cold, but somehow the rug shows up in a magazine feature, a law officier friend is missing, and the case is reopened. Leaphorn uses his Navajo reasoning to solve the crime.

I liked the story because I'm interested in weaving and infact learned most about it on the reservation. I was excited to get back into reading about Chinle and Shiprock and all of the other references that were so much of my life when I taught on the Navajo reservation at Teec Nos Pos. I enjoyed hearing the creation stories and remembered the culture that changed my worldview. I have my own stories about skinwalkers and shapechangers.

However, Hillerman's writing put me off. When I first started, I thought it sounded like it was written by a high school student. I had to stop a few times to reread because I was confused. Not by the clues and such, but somehow I was having trouble. Probably just me. I didn't like his other recent books, so maybe he is just pushing it to make money.

At any rate, Hillerman fans, you be the judge.

Ho Ho Ho! We put up the Christmas tree today. I loved it! We have Colorado Blue Spruce on the farm so Big Fred cut a 10 foot tree. It is the kind of tree with lots of gaps in it so the ornaments can hang down. A little strange at the top, but we pruned it back. Since we had so much snow, we brought it in the house and put a tarp under it to get it to defrost. BF cut off about 2 ft and put on the white lights.

Then it was my turn, I can't believe all of the old ornaments I have. Some from my mom, some I've collected, can't forget nB's canlid and milkweed pod ornament from kindergarten. I have an assortment of Santas that I was collecting for a while, and then the birds.

I had so much fun clipping on all of the birds. I have all kinds. They are really cheerful with their real feathers or metal curlicues. I have some pink and some gold ones my sister gave me from K-Mart, some are fat like mourning doves, some are perky songbirds, many are from Old World Christmas Ornaments, a carved goldfinch, a clear glass hummingbird, a cheeky bluejay, some are antique mercury glass with spun tails, and even a peacock. I thought I would add my bird's nests and it looked great.

As for the top, our old silvered topper doesn't fit since we did the major trimming, so we put a large glass ornament on it for the time being. Yuck! Got to get something new. Joyce , my sister, and I were just remembering that, as kids, we made a star out of cardboard and tinfoil.

But it's up and the presents are under. Big Fred helped and didn't say "humbug" one time. Ho HO HO!

I just found a new one called Home Organizing Idea Book-500 + Design Ideas for Organizing your home. I especially appreciate all advice on storing things because I have such a small house and if things are out of place,everything looks messy.

I did a check-by-check of each room since the book is divided into chapters by room. All was in pretty good order. I have new storage drawer and door units covering the full lenghth of the kneewall in the bedroom and floor to ceiling bookshelves in the quest bedroom(N's room). That is a lot of storage and I haven't completely filled them up. The book advises to put little used items into storage( nothing new) and so rather than put them in the basement, I think I will put them upstairs.

The bathroom is small, but usually pretty neat with a nice towel closet and under the sink storage. The best thing to do there is clean out outdated makeup. I don't own much in that area so it shouldn't take much effort.

My living room contains an amoire, a large closed bookcase, and a small cupboard. I would say that is sufficient storage. I couldn't fit something else in anyway. Again, it would be weeding out the books, accumulated papers, magazines, catalogues, and maybe finding some smallish baskets to put the sometimes used tapes in. I'm not much for knicknacks, but I do like to display my flower oil paintings. The book uses shelf/ledges for decorating and displaying treasures. I might think about adding another ledge to put my paintings on.

I'm always moving stuff around in the kitchen. I recently moved the plates to a drawer which is very convenient if I can remember that I put them down there and not up on the shelf in the cupboard. This idea book has great ideas for the kitchen.

The worst spot in the house is the entry. Booy, the pictures in the book are beautiful. Even the mudrooms made with kids in mind are great. I have followed the suggestions with racks to hang up coats, coatcloset dividers, and containers on the shelf to hold junk in the laundry closet. Unfortunately, the shoes are out, the slippers are out, the garbage to be taken out is out, the recycling bags are piling up, and it just isn't, as the book suggests, " a welcoming entry".

So after all of that, the book says that if you are not good at keeping things orderly in the open, you should have doors on storage. O.K., I can do that. In fact, the entry looks nice when the two closet doors are closed. Of course, all the shoes and coats look like the photos in the book when they are placed in an orderly fashion.

At any rate, I really enjoyed looking through this book. I give it a 500+ rating.

Ines of My Soul by Isabel Allende is historical fiction based on the life of Ines Suarez a conquistadora who helped conquer Chile. The story is definitely amazing. Inez, in Spain, is a seamstress who marries a shiftless, but great lover, who disappears to the New World. Inez goes hunting for him and meets up with Pedro de Valdivia who goes on, with her help, to conquer Peru.

This story is about the role women played from battle to dowsing in the conquest of civilizations in S. America. Actually, very interesting even with an epic poem. Allende created a bibliography of her research while writing this book and notes that, "the feats of Inez Suarez noted by the chroniclers of her era were nearly ignored by historians for four hundred years".

One thing I didn't like(even though it has to be a major part of the book) is all of the battles. I guess it wouldn't be a conquest without them. I think I liked Daughter of Fortune better.

Friday, we were blasted with snow again. Now I know it is December and I live UpNorth, but I'm getting so I have little patience with winter like there is anything I can do about it.

But, here is/are my biggest gripe (s). I can't believe people. The snow is falling at a steady rate at high noon. The traffic is backed up at the intersections in town, the roads are ice covered, the main highway leading out of town is closed and the drivers? People don't have their lights on, their mirrors are covered with snow, and many vehicles are covered with snow so the back window is useless. Of course, let's add to the mess the people who speed around the traffic going 2 mph and are in the ditch a few miles up the way (har, they deserve it). Then there's the poor shmuck that doesn't have snowtires and is fishtailing it up the hills with a crawling line of cars behind them.

The good news is that we made it home the twenty miles safe and sound. The bad news is that our plowtruck died with one tire freezing up so Big Fred had to finish plowing the driveway with his little snowblower. Merry Christmas- we are getting a new plow for our Jeep. The old truck will be put out to pasture in the backyard after 18 years of service. So I really shouldn't gripe about that.

But, I still should do something about my bad attitude toward winter and the crazy drivers.

Northern Michigan news flash! Bozo Boy and Strongwoman are engaged. And all because of a Coach purse in a Goodwill bag. NB and AS are planning a spring 2008 wedding.

After all the wedding planning I have helped with (and loved), all of the advice, after all of the hostess positions, after all of the flower arrangements and favors, after all of the negotiating- soothing hurt feelings and tempers, I am going to be the one in the mother-of-the groom seat. Keep your mouth shut and wear beige? No way! Am I excited? You damn betcha!
For more details: http://www.naivehelga.blogspot.com/

This book is a really fast read. Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is a book I could hardly put down. As the back jacket notes, "one starts to breathe its air." I went to the circus when I was about five and brought home a chameleon. It was an exotic pet for those days. I read the biography of P.T. Barnum when I was in 5th grade. I really find the circus life fascinating, but I never wanted to run off and join it. After reading this book, I know why.

Jacob Jankowski, the main character, is ninety-two or ninety- three and in a nursing home. The circus has come to town next door to his residence. One of the old geezers at Jacob's table starts telling everyone that he watered the elephants, but Mr. J. calls him a liar. Mr. J isn't quite sure where he is or what he remembers.

He goes back and forth remembering how,as a young man, he came to the circus and how he met Marlena and Rosie. The setting for the circus is in the 30's when the depression had hit the country, including the circus. The story is about the performers, the freaks, Uncle Al- the boss, the clowns, the job of being the vet for the animals, and Rosie the elephant that would save them. But, mostly it is about the circus secrets.

The ending is a surprise and will be left unmentioned. I can still here the sounds of the midway and smell the popcorn.

I'm back! Of course, I want to talk about a book I just finished. No, it didn't take me months to read it-time just slips by. Teacher Man by Frank McCourt is a great book especially for teachers. Mr. McCourt doesn't mince words infact he "lets it rip" with all of the bad words that teachers would love to say and many times do- under their breath.

McCourt tells about the day by day trials and errors of being a high school teacher in New York City. I had to laugh about the fact that he was nearly fired in the first two days of his career. He definitely used unusual methods to capture the attention of his students. His students wrote excuse notes for historical figures including Adam and Eve.

This book wasn't nearly as good as Angela's Ashes or "Tis, but then, how do you match a Pulitzer Prize winner?

I miss you MamaK. I know something happened with your blog, but I've been thinking about you, and wonder where you are and what you are doing. I believe we are all connected by invisible threads. It is so amazing how someone can enter one's life even though it's through cyberspace. I know that a writing like this can be a great release of emotions. It can be a view into a person's soul. It can be a forum for questioning and relating. At any rate, I hope you are well Mama, I hope your children are doing well, and I hope you know that I am thinking about you. LOL.

I can't believe the difference the time makes. I'm talking about the time change. I woke up this morning and felt like my body and the universe were as one. Could it be true? I really wish they would quit changing the time around. It gets me all " discomboobulated".

Of course, the up-lifting feeling may be from the fact that I got a good night's rest, the sun is up at 7:07 a.m. , the sky is baby blue with pink wispy clouds, it is suppose to be a balmy 60 Degrees, and I don't have to go to work (retired). Well, I'll see how I feel tomorrow. I hope this lasts, because it is terrific!

Yes, a Pileated Woodpecker stopped by our birdfeeder on Friday. He wrestled with a large chunk of woodpecker suet on the feeder, flew to a nearby tree to crack the suet apart, came back to the feeder, and then flew to our garden trellis. The sun was starting to shine and the red crest on his head was truly a sight. It is the first time we have ever seen this type of woodpecker in our yard.

It was about 18 in. long and very impressive. Pileated woodpeckers are relatively shy and prefer woodland areas. We have seen them at our neighbor's who live on a wooded pond and often when we drive through areas with lots of dead trees. But, this was our firsttime visitor. He was probably coming to tell us that it is going to snow again tomorrow. No matter, he was really cool.

My recipe box is a joyful possession. It holds memories of some very special people.

Here's a favorite from my mom's best friend- Ruth's Molasses Cookies. I use to make this recipe of soft cookies for my 104 year old grandpa.

Next, NB's recipe for One Egg Omelet. It was his own recipe that he could cook anytime when he was first learning to cook. It is complete with illustrations. No wonder he turned out to be a great cook.

And here's a whole sloo of recipes, nicely typed, that I got as a Christmas present from my friend and co-world traveling partner, Rebecca. Her recipes include Popeye's Special ( early vegetarian), Mule biscuits, and Biscochitos (5 doz.). I've lost track of her, but not all of our adventures together.

Ah, my ex-sister-in-law, she was the first to give me recipes for entertaining. It is for Cheese Balls.

Oh, yes, BBowden's recipe for Beer Batter and MARiver's Orange Humus. There's Aunt Ann's Angel Delight, how appropriate, she collected angels. Of course, I went through a whole period of collecting zucchini recipes. I ended up with a whole cookbook of zucchini recipes.

There's, my sister, Joyce's Lasagna. And then, there's my version of Spinach Lasagna I took from the Richard Simmon's show.

I saved the best for last, G'ma Koberg's Waffle recipe written out neatly in Big Fred's mom's handwriting. We have had waffles using this recipe many times and it has become a family tradition.

So, those are the highlights of my recipe box. I love the ones written out. I wish I had some from my own Grandma, but she usually told me the recipe which included directions like- a pinch of this or that. I guess all memories don't have to be written down, but I sure cherish the ones I have in my recipe box.

The weather and ailments were going to be off limits, but.. it's snowing out! It snowed last night and we woke up to needing the windshield scraper. I had to warm up the car to get the snow off. Visibility was poor and the roads were wet. At times this afternoon, it was coming down pretty heavily.

Gee, I haven't even taken the air-conditioner out of the upstairs bedroom window. I have two large ivy plants to bring in and the picnic table is still out on the patio. Luckily, BF has the snowplow in order incase we need to plow the driveway.

The forecast is for snow, blowing snow, rain and gusting winds, snow accumulations of 1-3 inches for the next few days. Let's see, at this rate we will have winter for eight months. How depressing! I wonder where I left my garden trowel?

Another great book- Sudden Country by Karen Fisher. This is a "can't put down" story of life on the Oregon trail. Wow- such ungodly hazards and stamina.

The main character, Lucy, leaves her comfortable home to go west following her second husband's dream. The story takes you back to her first husband and her joy of being in love. As she travels along the trail, it is taken for granted that she will do whatever needs to be done for her family with little regard for her personal well-being. The author does a terrific job of showing how Lucy loses her identity and faith as she faces the horrors of life going farther and farther into the unknown.

The story also follows the life of James McLaren as a trapper for the Hudson's Bay Company. His Nez Perce wife leaves him and his children die of smallpox. He is a driver and scout for the wagon train as it journeys west

Both main characters live in sorrow, loss of worth and loss of hope. The lives intertwine and the story leads one to believe that Lucy and James, who find each other and love, will live happily ever after.

This story is based on the times of Indian Wars, massacres, immigrants and Native Americans. The book was a finalist for the Pen/Faulkner Award. The New York Public Library named it ONE OF THE YEAR'S BOOKS TO REMEMBER. I agree! I really enjoyed reading it.

Aunt B Eats at LuLu's in downtown Bellaire. This upbeat restaurant has high silver-tin ceilings, unique lighting, and an impressive menu.

I had a really tasty salad that would be easy to replicate at home. In fact, RS and I split it and had plenty. It was something like a Greek salad, but with only a few greens (unlike the picture). Here's how it looked-garden greens with vinaigrette dressing and a few slices of beets, feta cheese, purple olives (not sure what kind), tabouli, and then hummus. These were all placed in wedges around the bowl. It was served with a grilled pita cut into four wedges and placed around the outside of the low serving bowl. It also reminded me of eating Ethiopian food with all of the food to dip with the bread.

The soup was a tasty ginger squash-yummy. No time for dessert because we were off to a massage at Shanty Creek. I know, tough life.

Pumpkin bread. I'm hungry for pumpkin bread and it is the season. But, I can't find the recipe card in my recipe box.

Of course, I have a shelf of cookbooks, but I had a recipe that I really liked. Not too much cloves or allspice. Maybe the recipe is the one on the can. Where, oh, where?

You know Aunt B loves to eat and I try to find pictures that are similar to the menu item. Sometimes the pictures actually look better than the original gastronomic delight.

Such is the case with my posting of Pad Thai at Fusion- when actually it is Thai Drunken noodles as eaten and photographed by Simon. So, lucky you, Simon, for eating in all of those places. I wish I could eat out for a living.

Tell me when you visit Northern Michigan and I'll show you my favorites food spots. We do have some highly recognized restaurants, food products, and wineries. And check out Simon's-http://plateoftheday.com/.

The other night , we observed the strangest skies. In the west was a mass of gold clouds from the horizon to nearly overhead. Below was pink and turquoise sky. It had stopped raining.

On the east was dark black clouds and a giant rainbow. The rainbow was in Aunt D's horse pasture and the other end went right over Mom's house.

I guess I should have raced to find the pot of gold. I always feel rainbows are good luck whether money is involved or not. I'm like a little kid the way I ooh and ahh. Rainbows remain magical to me.

Bird watching has been a part of our daily routine. What bird did you see today? That's one of our important rituals. We have eagles, hummingbirds, cardinals, bluejays, finches, woodpeckers, bluebirds, cowbirds, starlings, and many more. All fun to watch.

Well, it has been raining here for a week and we have a group of birds on their migration path. This evening we saw a bluebird on our birdfeeder and a group of white-crowned sparrows.

The biggest news was that Big Fred saw twenty-five, I repeat, 25, sandhill cranes. He stopped and counted them. We have been watching for these birds and were amazed when we saw a group of seven. I even saw and heard a pair fly over the house one day. But, to see such a large number is a miracle.

We try to keep track of the birds we have seen each year. BF saw them on his birthday. What a fabulous present!

Birthday Pie for the birthday boy, Big Fred. In our family, you get your favorite pie or cake or dessert for your birthday. His is banana cream or coconut cream pie.

I usually ask our neighbor, who is famous for her great pies, to make one or both for Fred's birthday. Then we got the American Pie Co. in town so I have purchased yummy pies.

But, this year-drum roll- I'm making the pie. This is mostly because I have time. Besides, what do I give a person who is asked what they want and they say a 650 Triumph with a sidecar? I'll stick with pie. Happy Birfday, Big Fred.

While reading the latest edition of Smithsonian, I came across the fascinating article titled "Fabric of Their Lives". This article is about the new exhibit of quilts made by ladies of Gee's Bend, Alabama. The quilt show opened at the Museum of fine Arts in Houston. Such fabulous quilts, truly works of art. Art critic Mark Stevens of the New York magazine said that they "just might deserve a place among the great works of twentieth-century abstract art. The article is about the quilts and the lives of the women who made them. Very inspiring.

I am part of q quilting family, so I know the work and pride that goes into the finished product. My mom has made me many quilts that I use, not store. She made quilts for each of her grandchildren, wedding presents, for charity, and for her own use. Her quilts are what we call "tied off" rather than quilted. They are made to be used. I have also made quilts although I wouldn't say mine are a work of art or anywhere near it. My grandmother and aunts all are great quilters too.

I am just in awe of the way the ladies of Alabama have made their quilts. And I'm pleased that they have been recognized for their talent. Check out the article, and if you are anywhere near this exhibit, go .

As Halloween approaches, I get more and more annoyed with all of the "Stuff" in the stores. However, I did get(at the library) the October issue of Martha Stewart Living, and it has all kinds of really great decorating ideas and recipes. I especially liked the "to do with kids candy making" and the boo-tiful ghost cake on page 116.

I know people have a thing about Martha, and I don't really appreciate her jail history, but come on, look at the great ideas that are in her latest mag. She does bring out the creativity.

I just might try the cake and the pumpkin carving. At least make a pumpkin pie.

Yes, I do more than, shop, read, and eat. But let me tell you about Fusion. Aunt B Eats at Fusion in downtown Frankfort. This restaurant features Chinese and Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine. I didn't go far out since it was lunch and had Pad Thai with chicken. It was attractively served with a crab appetizer and came with soup (egg drop). Way too much to eat, so I brought it home. The menu lists premium wines, eclectic cocktails and imported beers. The most intriguing dessert was the 1 carb creme brulee. Too full. It will have to wait until next time.

Not only do I love to eat, but I love to shop in Kitchen stores. One of my favorite shops is Crystal Crate and Cargo. It's even better when you get a gift certificate from Christmas that hasn't been spent yet. So, I did some browsing. The store features Mario Batalli products, Emile Henry cookware, Wusthof knives, all kinds of dodads and gadgets, gourmet mixes, mustards, noodles, rice, and local products like chocolate covered cherries.

I've had my eye on recycled glass bowls, plates, glasses, and accessories. I ended up buying beautiful green glass bowls. Of course, it would have to be useful and compliment the many green plates (Jadite), forest green glasses, and majolica that I have collected.

I'll have to wait for the holidays before I return. I usually buy kitchen stuff for my family and they gift wrap, so I don't have that to do. Anyway, it is a fabulous store, has friendly, helpful staff, and is a shopping pleasure. I should do their advertising.

Aunt B Eats at the Underground Cheesecake Company. This shop is known for it's cheesecake on a stick and wedding cheesecakes. It was coolish today, I opted for soup. I try everything once, so I chose a bowl of artichoke mushroom soup. This is served with a bread stick for about $4.90. Sorry to say, I thought the atrichoke was overwhelming. I did get a Deelicious cherry almond muffin. This thing was as big as the top of my fist. It was very cakelike and moist. I enjoyed it with my 4 o'clock cup of joe. Next time, I'll just splurge on the cheesecake. Oh no, cheese again.

Second week of my Master Gardener class. First week was about plants- kinds, structures, how they produce food, and unusual plants. That's just the beginning. We had a hands-on lab with all kinds of plants- milkweed, onions, walnuts, corn, wire weed, etc. It wasn't too bad since my major is Biology and I taught 5th and 6th grade Science for years. But, so much learning crammed into three hours.

I guess we got off to a bad start. The lady presenting was very knowledgeable, but she went overtime. Class started at 5:30 and was to end at 9:30. I really dislike going overtime and on top of that, we had to clean up. The worse part, all of those plants have pollen, and it set off my fall allergies. By the time we got done, my eyes were nearly swollen shut and I had a sore throat. To say the lease, I wasn't a happy gardener.

This week we are studying about plant diseases, insect damage, and which plant should go where according to conditions. So, so much to learn. Hopefully, my allergies won't flare up. I know, whine, whine. What happened to my enthusiasm?

A Good Scent from a Strange Mountain by Robert Olen Butler, another Pulitzer Prize winner 1993. This is a collection of stories of Vietnamese living in American(near New Orleans) who deal with their homeland culture, the war, and the American culture. Each chapter is from a different person's perspective from a successful business man to game show winner. For most, the war is always present even if it is pushed back to give way to making a living and dealing with the everyday stuff of being an "American".

I relate this book to the American Iraqi citizens or American Jewish citizens or German or Japanese American citizens in time of war. There's just no way to get around the tragedies of war. They are a part of every citizen, even those who don't participate.

I know, I'm married to a Vietnam veteran.

Cook Vietnamese style and pair ale with cheese- an overview of the classes I took at the Epicurean Classic in TC. I liked the cold soba noodle salad and the pho, but I was most intrigued with the cheeses.

The ale and cheese class paired cheese and ales from England. I especially liked the Stilton cheeses; three types of Stilton. Two were traditional with blue veining and one white Stilton with fruit (this one with apricots). Very good. I've always liked Stilton cheese, but this one was great! It was paired with a light ale and was very complimentary. Now, you may think of wine and cheese, but this pairing of ale and cheese had the same idea. One could not overpower the other, meld the flavors. The ale I liked the least had fruit added, again apricot. It tasted like a liquor and I could only take a few sips.

This ale (beer) tasting reminded me of the beer we made when we first moved here. It was very "hoppy", but when we took it to a party, everyone liked it. We had it tested at the local college and it was very high in alcohol content, so no wonder it was a hit. Also thought about NB's Breakfast Beer and his Chocolate Beer and all of his beer making trials.

So, I learned about cheeses and ale and Vietnamese cooking. Can't wait to share this with NB since he is the chef of the family.

One of my goals is to read Pulitzer Prize winning books. March is the 2006 Pulitzer Prize winner. The author, Geraldine Brooks, tells about the father in Louisa May Alcott's classic, Little Women, who has gone off to the Civil War as a chaplain.

Mr. March sees the horrors of war, especially the Union's acts of barbarism and racism. His letters home try to spare Marmee and the girls and so they know little of the father's horrible experience and tests of faith. This is a vivid account of the war and its shattered lives. It could be a story of the present, just change the names and the places. I've always wondered how a chaplain can go to war. It seems a contradiction.

I feel like I need to reread Little Women, but it will never seem the same after reading March.

I came across these housekeeping tips in my recipe box. I bet I have had this card for thirty years. I won't lie, I tried to do this list when I was first married.
Monday: Dust; vacuum downstairs; mop the kitchen
Tuesday: Change beds; wash
Wednesday: Dust, vacuum upstairs
Thursday: Mop kitchen; clean bathroom (my kitchen floor would be worn out)
Friday: Go over downstairs in case of company; wash.

All very organized. I wonder where I got this golden piece for a Susie Housewife?

Insight From the Dalai Lama.
May I become at all times, both now and forever
A protector for those without protection
A guide for those who have lost their way
A ship for those with oceans to cross
A bridge for those with rivers to cross
A sanctuary for those in danger
A lamp for those without light
A place of refuge for those who lack shelter
And a servant to all in need.

What more needs to be said? Have a great day.

My horoscope for today (thanks mamak) warns about problems using a new appliance, computer, or state-of-the art entertainment equipment. Alas, my household isn't that exciting. The only trouble I had today was trying to use the wine bottle opener. I never get the corkscrew in the middle and so end up having to turn and turn the handle until I get most of the cork on the end, then I reef it out. I did have fun with friends, sharing the bottle of wine. Big Fred labored on TRR's roof, mowed the yard, and then relaxed about 3:00. So much for Labor Day. I tried to finish the bedroom spackling project that I wanted to get done before school started. I'm 99% finished, but somehow nail holes keep appearing! Maybe tomorrow I'll get a new appliance or some such thing. ???

My fantasy job would be to travel with "Saveur" magazine. When I stopped at a yard sale today, I found a pile of free "Saveur" magazines. I had my 4:00 cup of coffee with cream beside me as I started to peruse the pages.

Ah yes, off to Providence, Rhode Island to experience the Italian-American neighborhood. I'd dine at the Old Canteen and start with the Shrimp Fra Diavolo (shrimp in spicy tomato sauce served over pasta) and end with Fancy Spumoni with Balsamic Syrup at Camille's. I'd learn to make potato gnocchies and bring home some sfogliatelle (crunchy shell-shaped pastries filled with sweetened ricotta) for Big Fred.

While heading East, I'd make a trip to France, to visit Chablis wine country. I'd sample wine from barrels in their wine cellars and taste their celebrated Raveneau Clos (Grand Cru) 1999 at $125 a bottle.

I'd jet back to the states and visit the Gioia Cheese Company in California and buy Vito Girardi's burrata. This is handmade mozzarella which is molded around curds and cream. It comes in 1 pound balls and is highly perishable, so we would have to make tomato sandwiches with it before e it went bad. If it is April, I could take in the Asparagus Festival in Stockton where folks eat more than 20,000 pounds of tender asparagus spears over three days. Wheeeew!

While in the festival mood, I could attend the National Corn Bread Festival in South Pittsburgh, Tennessee. I'd bring home a cast-iron skillet for NB, because this is the home of the leading American manufacturer of cast-iron skillets.

I'd be the Alton Brown (Food Network) of GT County. I'd have to learn all of those types of pastas-angel hair, bowtie, macaroni, twisties. I'd learn to sniff and swish wine. I'd eat pine nuts and pan fried sweet breads with chablis sauce. I'd...........I'd be fat!!!

And I've only read one magazine.

Rules for Survival, free advice that I have passed on to anyone who will listen. It has been helpful as I have moved from place to place. Use the 5 rule survival system when you move to a new town or city. It's a way to be proactive for yourself and your family.

Rule #1-find a Free Clinic (the missing rule).When Big Fred and I lived on the farm, we didn't have health insurance. In fact, we had to sell livestock to spring me from the hospital when NB was born. So, with a little child, and all of the baby shots, I went to the health clinic where the fee was minimal. Yes, I had to wait, but so did many other people. I have no qualms about getting health care in this fashion. Then when we moved from the country to the city, I looked for the free clinic- you know, women's issues, colds, fevers, and any other emergency. I even checked out the dental schools for lower rates. When you don't have insurance, the tendency is to home medicate, and sometimes, that can be disastrous. Rule #1 helps cut down on anxiety.

Rule # 2-find Goodwill, St. Vincent de Paul, Salvation Army, or other quality thrift shops. If money is an issue, and for most of us it is, thrift shopping is the way to go. Check out these stores for cleaning and household items-a mop, a broom, dish drainer, silverware, dishes, bathroom items. For a small amount of money, the house can be fashionably furnished. And families can have clothing galore. I usually stop at shoes unless they are brand new. With the savings, kids should get new shoes that fit their feet. School supplies,office supplies, toys, games, books, magazines, and music are all available. Here's a place that children can get that toy that costs a fortune. I have bought many beautiful gifts at these places. The good thing is that many of these stores now have a return policy so I don't have to spend the whole day trying on clothes. If you have the ready cash flow, kids clothes can be purchased and tried on at home at their leisure. Downside, most clothes have to be tried on and it takes time to look through everything. There is no reason for kids wearing raggy, too small clothes. And yes, a great place to find clothes for special occasions for kids who just grow out of fancy dresses and blazers. The fun is in the find and the bargain.

Rule # 3- find the public library. Wow, a whole world open and usually free. Books, games, magazines, puppets, puzzles, music, a copy machine and Internet access. Most libraries offer storytime, summer reading clubs, homework help, classes, art lectures, and adult reading groups. Of course, you need the non-possession philosophy. The idea of borrowing not owning is hard for some people. It eliminates stacks of once read magazines and overflowing bookshelves. It's a great place to socialize. When I lived on Mackinac Island, it was a lifesaver. When I lived in Howell, I volunteered to help with storytime. It was my first stop to find new friends for myself and NB. I'm a big library fan.

Rule#4- seek out the local event calendar. Many events are again, free. Music on the lawn, art openings, guided walks, travel lectures. Most every weekend has something going on that doesn't cost money. Maybe a little gas, but that's a given. Ride your bike, walk.

Rule#5. Find a place that is natural. Look for a park, a beach, a riverside, a garden. Try for someplace quiet. Hopefully, it's a place where the sun can shine through, maybe have some birds. We all need a place that brings us close to nature. We need to nurture our spiritual side.

So, 5 Rules for Survival. Advice given freely to anyone who will listen or read. Pass it on to your kids.

44 Scotland Street, by Alexander McCall Smith, is a fun read. The story is based on the colorful characters who live in a townhouse in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is about , Bertie, a 5 year old, who is his mother's "project", Pat, a twenty year old, who is trying to find her place and works at an art gallery, Domenica, their 6oish eccentric widow neighbor, and Bruce (Pat's flatmate) who mostly thinks about himself.

The story deals with friendship, intrigue, vanity, loneliness, and ordinary events in lives that intertwine. Smith gives a good picture of Edinburgh society and human nature.

This story was first published, chapter by chapter, in "The Scotsman" newspaper. The serial writing helps the book move along quickly. In fact, I found it helpful because I had chores to do, so I could easily keep up with the characters even with that " stop and start" type of reading.

I'm now reading Expresso Tales which is the next book in this series. Not too heavy, funny, the same characters, and a clever twist here and there. I got a really big kick out of Smith's No1 Ladies Detective Agency series. I'm enjoying this series, but I don't think it matches up to Ladies Detective Agency especially when it comes to humor. Still, it is a fun read.

Rise up, Moms. Rebel! I just finished reading the New York Times article titled "Back to School Fashion"http://shopping.aol.com/pages/Kids-Fashions/20209?ncid=AOLCOMMshopDYNLprim0001. It was informative and extremely sad. I usually don't rant ( I leave that to mamak), but the whole idea of fashion world marketing focus on under 9 year olds, is truly appalling.

We, women and men, have worked so hard to raise the status of women and children around the world. We had the Women's Rights Movement to bring equality in pay and opportunity in the workplace. It brought attention to issues such as sexual harrassment and sexual violence. We have Title 9, in schools, to give equal opportunity to girls in sports. We have women astronauts, women ambassadors, women in high government positions, women fighting in wars (God help them), and rising hopes for a female U.S. President. We got rid of smoking ads and billboards. All of this to help raise the self-esteem of girls to fight drug and alcohol addiction, to fight anorexia and bulimia, to fight wife and child abuse, to raise the health and worth of our children. And now, according to this article, girls need fashion and glam to "be". It says,"Kids from the very beginning are learning that your self worth depends on what you have and how the market evaluates you."

The article also mentions that fashion for the under 9 year old is not sexy but is provocative. So what is that suppose to mean.?!! Do you want your third grader looking provocative? Now, I'm not against cute clothes on children, fun nail polish and such, but I thought children (and adults) were to dress appropriately for the situation. Belly shirts use to mean that the little kid was growing out of their clothes and I loved My Little Kitty because it was so sweet. I thought when you let your child dress themselves and they came out in plaids and strips, you had them chose again. That was helping them become independent. Boy, am I naive!

The idea of little girls being a fashion replica of mommy is a step backward. We have battled the idea that children are just a small sized grown-up with grown-up expectations. Children have worked in the factories and fields for centuries- conceived for this purpose. Our society continues to devalue children and exploit them.

Even a Project Runway Barbie! I'm not saying that the adults have to stop watching this show. I'm not saying we have to stop liking attractive clothes. I'm saying, balance. Moms, do you want your little child to appear "provocative"? Am I just being an "old frump"? I'll see the "haves" and "have nots" when I go to school next week. :C

Rule #2 in survival advice is to find the Goodwill or thrift shops. Today I went to our local Goodwill and got great buys on ladies clothes. I found a pair of sage green slacks and a very nice black jacket for colder weather. I'm trying to upgrade my wardrobe, so I was very selective. I also bought some clothes that I think will be great for one of my friends. And they were really cheap. I glanced at the kid's clothes and there were racks and racks. I mean from baby to teens. I quickly went through the household items and finally bought a notebook for $.50. I don't need any kitchen stuff, so I put the treasures back that were in my cart- a blue glazed planter and a large oval wicker picnic basket. I cruised through the kid's toys- there was a ton. I passed up supplies that I could have used for school, but I really have enough and nothing caught my eye. I browsed through the books, but since Rule #3 in survival advice is to use the library, I didn't look too closely. Well, I got bargain entertainment, stuck to my budget, and perhaps helped a friend by being her personal shopper. Rule #2 in survival advice means that if you shop at thrift stores, you and your family can have very nice clothes, get toys, books, household items including furniture, at a reasonable price, and can be entertained to boot. It may not be the way to go for everyone, but it works for me.

I know you shouldn't get attached to things, but I love my house. So, here are 10+ things you need to know about my abode so maybe you'll understand my attachment.
1. The kitchen part of my house is hand-hewn cedar logs that are over 150 years old. (Photo is similar to the original 18x20 cabin).
2. My house has gone through numerous changes. Three generations of my family have lived in the log structure. My grandparents lived in it when they were first married. My dad tore the cabin down, moved it to the present site, and reassembled it. Many families lived in it after my parents moved to the big house next door. It stood empty for a number of years before we moved in.
2.5 The log part was completely gutted - renovation included a cement floor in the basement, stairs leading to the basement, a completely new wall and floor structure, a loft over the kitchen, and a new roof system. It's the kitchen and dining area.
3. The living room floor is southern yellow pine and the boards sat in the living room drying for about 2 years. The kitchen has cherry floors, but we couldn't afford that wood when we did the living room.
3.5. BF was not a carpenter when he added our living room and bedroom above.
4. At one time, we had two stairs going to the second floor: one in the kitchen and one in the living room. Before that we had a ladder that went straight up the wall into the bedroom upstairs.
5. My bathroom is glorious. The new room (the old one is another complete story) went through stages called the blue tarp wall, foil walls, and the pink stage (insulation). The two man sit tub went in first. Even though I thought it was extravagant, soaking in it is divine.
6. We recently put tile in the entry and only weeks ago put knobs and handles on the kitchen cupboards.
7. We burned wood for a long time and had two woodstoves. Big Fred wanted to put a cookstove in the kitchen which I agreed to if he could find a turquoise stove. Thankfully, he never found one. My first kitchen stove was my grandma's old electric stove. We still have a woodstove in the living room incase of bad winter weather.
8. I used an ironing board for a kitchen counter for 11 years. When I designed the kitchen, the counter is where I use to stand when I had the ironing board.
9. Big Fred built a large bay window onto our living room which we called the Christmas tree room. Since we didn't have flooring we nailed the tree stand to the floor. It is now where our desk and computer sits with a great view of the garden, the birdfeeder, and the fields beyond.
10. My house will never be finished. The upstairs is painted, but needs carpet. BF has put floor to ceiling bookshelves in the guest room (NB's old room) and has built doors for the closet. So, the upstairs needs much, much work.
11. That's only the beginning.

Big Fred is a carpenter. He works on fancy/sometimes million dollar houses for a living and just doesn't want to do the same things all weekend. Besides, our house is old, out of square, and needs lots of everything, and most projects can't be finished over a weekend. On the positive side, it is very unique and comfortable. Anyone who comes here will say that our house is a "home sweet home". I lovingly agree.

Raining outside, room decorated inside, welcome-welcome. Husband, son, mother, sister, sister's husband, niece, niece and husband, two favorite aunts, two favorite uncles, childhood friends, teacher friends, longtime friends, new teachers, old teachers, retired teachers, colleagues, principal, superintendent. Laughter, jokes, stories shared, stories corrected, celebrations remembered, kisses, hugs, everyone talking at once. Speeches, more jokes, smiles, bows, a toast, over 35 years teaching, a standing ovation. Tears, hugs, smiles, laughter. Food and drinks. Opening gifts and gifts, a beautiful mantle clock in appreciation, a penny collection for future drinks, a penny collection for the retirement fund, good wishes, good company, good bye, thank you, I'm so glad you could come. I' m so blessed. Thank you Creator. Thank you everyone. Thank you sister-cousin. Thank you family and friends. Thank you for sharing this celebration with me. Thank you for sharing my recent retirement. It was a grand party. I can't stop smiling.

Walking, walking, walking. CT and I have walked every day of this week for 3-5 miles. We even walked with the threat of rain this morning. The more we talk/walk (we talk a lot) the quicker the miles go by. We have done a lot of catching up and reminiscing since our friendship goes back to when our kids were little. Of course, our motive is to lose weight and shape up at bit. We both have time to walk, but it takes so much effort to get going. And by 4:00, I'm ready for a nap. Maybe it's all the fresh air. I guess that's why it is good to have a walkin-buddy. Thanks CT for your encouragement. I especially liked the comment that I might look like Miranda Priestly some day. Yup. Yup!

A Woman In Berlin: Six Week in the Conquered City is a diary of Russian brutality to women in the last days of World War II. This is written by an anonymous journalist who, like many women, suffers repeated rape and does whatever she needs to do to survive during this time.

This is not an easy book to read because it is a detailed account of the repeated rapes and humiliation of women, young and old. The German men are of no help since they are the defeated. The worse part is when her boyfriend, Gerd, returns from the war, reads her diary, and totally rejects her. The "Ivans" (Russians)treat their horses better than the women. Women and children are simple considered the spoils of war.

This book was first published in 1954 in Germany and was rejected because of the disgust of writing about mass rape and the choices made to survive. Some questioned the authenticity.

This is a reminder of the wars that are happening at this moment, how the women are treated, and I would guess that the stories will be held as secrets by many because of the shame and low regard for women in many societies. As the author says, the men come back with all of the glory and women remain mum.

Ah humanity, what we do to our own! And we are above animals because of or our higher intelligence?

Aunt B Eats at Hanna Bistro in TC. Today I met two long time friends at Hanna Bistro downtown. It has a really nice decor even though they covered up the original yellow brick in the building. Lots of interesting art work and cozy tables or booths.

I ordered the apple salad with raisins, honey glazed pecans, and cumin dressing, served on three large pieces of lettuce. It was tasty, and definitely within my diet, but a lot of apple to eat. I wouldn't order it again. C had a black bean corn salsa on a toasted flatbread topped with a sauce served on a bed of fresh greens. She liked it, but without the sauce, the beans and corn were very bland. This was listed as topped with duck. However, both ladies are vegetarian, so no duck. R ordered a Tuscan vegetable plate- white beans, artichoke, tomato all with a red sweet pepper sauce. She said that it was very good. Each lunch was a colorful dish. The waitress was polite and very helpful since many of the lunch items had sauces and cheeses that we have never hear of before.

We didn't have any problem understanding the desserts. They offer three: flourless chocolate cake with their own homemade coffee ice cream( I love coffee ice cream), fruit tart with their own homemade clove ice cream, and a white cake with a lemon chiffon top covered with raspberry sauce. I was good- I only tasted the clove ice cream and it was very yummy. I think this would be a great place to go for coffee and dessert. Next time I'll forgo the apple and get the dessert.

As I look at my posts, all I've done lately is eat!

Aunt B Eats at the Hard Luck Cafe in TC. I took mom out to the Hard Luck Cafe for brunch. This use to be the Chicken Coop.

It's a small diner, but not fast food. The menu featured breakfast along with pork and beef sandwiches and chicken. I ordered eggs, bacon, hashbrown potatoes, and toast. Mom ordered one pancake for $1.49. It was as big as a dinner plate. By sharing the bacon ( 5 pieces), we had plenty for two people. I know that many people (especially Big Fred) can eat these giant breakfasts, but I wish they would serve less food because I hate to waste it.

The waitress was nice, the food was standard for breakfast, and the decor was pleasing. Toast was made from local bakery bread so it was yummy. Hopefully, we will go again because I could get Mom's wheelchair in through the double doors. Everyone was very helpful. We spent a quiet morning together.

Aunt B Eats at the Telegraph House in Port Stanley, Ontario, Canada. We ate lunch at an umbrella-topped table with yellow and blue French linen, on the patio, under tall white spruce trees near the yellow brick Telegraph House.

It was by far the best food and service of all the restaurants we ate at in Port. I had a vegetarian quiche that was dynamite. It came with a fresh greens salad. Big Fred had a hamburger and RS and MS had a chicken wrap. We agreed that the lunch was tasty, nicely presented, and reasonably priced. Our waiter was friendly and efficient- not pushy. Even though it was noon and we didn't have a reservation, we were promptly seated. Unfortunately, we didn't have room for their famous rhubarb cremes. It was a delightful lunch. It got an "A".

Telegraph House is a B&B with two very nice rooms upstairs. I think it would be a great place to stay if I vacation in Port Stanley another time.

Try Port Stanley, Ontario, Canada for a quiet vacation. This little fishing town is located just south of London, Ontario on Lake Erie. Our four day visit was very relaxing.

If you want tons of shopping, this is not the place for you. I enjoyed the fact that I could peruse all of the stores the first day and then take my time to check out each store. This was the offering: two kitchen/home accessories shops, three fancy designer ladies clothing shops, an antique store (open Wednesday- Sunday), a fun consignment shop, and three art galleries. Lots of places to eat and a theater. Only thing lacking was a bookstore for Big Fred.

Once we arrived at Kettle Creek Inn, we really didn't have to go anywhere since everything was within walking distance. The men sat on the patio and read and we ladies checked out the shops and planned our day's agenda. We walked along the beach, watched the fishing boats, went bird watching at Hawk Cliff, visited nearby Quai Du Vin Winery, went to a play, shopped, and ate. Very low-keyed. Just what we had been waiting a whole year for.

I keep a travel journal so I know the good, bad, and ugly about each place in and near Port Stanley. The next few posts will be about the trip. I'll help you plan your vacation if you are anywhere near.

Vacation, vacation. Getting ready. I'm so excited. Food, quiet, a different scene. Aunt B. Eats. Of course, I have to be a tad careful since I've just lost 10 lbs. My goal is to not talk about it- just do it. I'll let you know.