On Words

Perfidious

I heard this word somewhere recently, and it's been running through my head all day. Perfidious. Perfidious. I thought I knew what it meant, but I looked it up just to be sure: Treacherous.

Sometimes, I just like the sound of certain words. Ameliorate. Vacillate. Delineate. (Notice a trend here?) Promulgate. But my favorite word in the English language is probably quintessential. Something about it just works for me. It is the, ahem, quintessential fun word to say (!)

There are a bunch of words I quite like in German as well. Vorabredung. Anmeldung. Aufgeregt. Fernsehapparat. Vergangenheit. Beschäftigung. Ausbildung. Fortbildung. Eigentlich. Und so weiter ...

Most of those words have very average meanings - I could even write a sentence: Das Fernsehapparat Fortbildung is eigentlich total aufgeregt. In der Vergangenheit habe ich die beschäftig Fortbildung vergessen. Na ja, ach so, das ist die Warheit. Das Satz ist auch total Quatsch. (Loosely translated: The television conference is totally exciting. In the past, I totally forgot the career seminar. It's true. And this sentence is complete nonsense.)

But didn't it seem impressive? You should hear me say it, if I turn on the German accent - it sounds totally cool.

With my mind on words (they're kind of my thing - studying journalism and English will do that to you - I absolutely love the book Eats, Shoots and Leaves), I read the annual list of words/phrases we should retire. Most of these, I don't think I've ever used. But I definitely won't use them now - they're banished after a year, or more, of misuse.

The list includes:

• perfect storm
• Webinar
• waterboarding
• organic
• wordsmith/wordsmithing
• author/authored
• post 9/11
• surge
• give back
• "blank" is the new "blank"
• Black Friday
• back in the day
• random
• sweet
• decimate
• emotional
• pop
• it is what it is
• under the bus

My husband (who lives in the corporate world) assures me that several of these are very overused and ought to be banned. I'll take his word for it. And I'm going to add my picks:

• my bad (I sooo hate this expression)
• yada-yada (who ever said this before they heard it on Seinfeld? It's been off the air for 10 years - enough already)
• grandbaby (it's a child - that expression sounds so hokey)
• retail therapy (just overused - put it to rest)
• senior moment (equally overused)

Generally, I know a word is past its expiration date when it reaches the vernacular of my husband's grandmother - she's a sweet woman, but on the cutting edge, she is not. Once she's using a slang term, you know it's about three years past its prime.

I'm a big believer in the philosophy of Ernest Hemingway, who felt there was no point in using a 25-cent word when the nickel word would do just as well. It's the, ah, "quintessential" writing paradigm that I emulate. It's possible I'll forget, but you won't hear "my bad" - a simple "oops!" will have to suffice.

She's Driving

I spent two hours at the Texas DMV today.

And it wasn't for me.

Today was all about my eldest daughter getting her very own driver's license. It's an exciting moment for her, and a sobering one for me.

I remember so well that day in August of 1982 when my own mother went with me to the office in downtown Springfield, MO, to take my driver's test. I remember what I was wearing (big surprise, huh, Tammy?!?): Levi's jeans, a pink IZOD shirt, and sandals; I remember what I drove (my parents' silver 1978 Ford Granada - but I was quickly given permission to drive their 1966 blue Ford Mustang ... what a car ...) I had heard all the horror stories about the local test - the cranky woman examiner (got her) who did not wear a seatbelt, even when you asked her (pre-seatbelt laws), the parallel parking, the tuning fork - designed to control all of the traffic in the downtown - what a laugh.

I passed the test, and listed my weight at 90 lbs. Smiled sweetly for that photo. And walked out with a full-fledged driver's license.

Feels like yesterday. But we are a few years, and a few pounds, past that day. Today I was there with my own 16-year-old daughter. She actually took the driving exam in driver's ed (which she took at a private school, as it's not offered as part of the school curriculum), so today was merely turning in the paperwork, getting the photo taken, and writing the check. She did not write down 90 lbs for her weight, but we did only pay $5 for her first-time license. (And this process still took two hours, most of which was spent standing in line. But boy are they serious about queue etiquette - I saw more than one person being told by the officials there that they had been observed cutting - thank goodness for law and order!)

Her license has some restrictions on it. She has to renew it annually until she is 18; she has to provide proof that she is enrolled in school. She has a curfew, as well as a limit on how many passengers under 18 she can have in the car. Just as well.

Tonight she took each of her sisters out for a little solo spin around the neighborhood. I told her she can drive to a friend's this weekend. But we're taking it slowly.

And to secure my place as an official mother of a driver, I splurged for the +1.00 readers the eye doctor suggested, in lieu of bifocals. May as well cement my status, huh? I'm no longer an ingenue, no longer the parent of little girls. At least one of these little girls is nearly an adult - she certainly has adult responsibilities now. But it's OK - really. Looking at her and the person she is becoming, it's all worth a few wrinkles around the eyes.

Lucky for me, the way my eyesight is changing, in a few years I won't be able to see them at all ...

Things I Learned Today

Today I found out:

• Being the cookie mom for the Girl Scout troop is always more work than I remembered.
• The online quiz they made me take to reconfirm my status as cookie mom? Dead easy.
• The construction on Spring Cypress really affects the travel time you estimate. And not in a good way.
• They've changed the roads in the subdivision next to mine, and already the navigation system does not work. Which meant several extra minutes of driving around, hitting dead-ends. And aggravation.
• I thought I liked Stein-Mart. But in fact, Stein-Mart is full, lately, of clothes that look good only on women who currently represent Lafayette in the Indiana Legislature and like to wear lots of sequins. I mean hey, if it works for you, embrace it.
• But I did enjoy the corner of the store that looks as if it's just perfect for people who work as dental assistants. Or nurses in pediatricians' offices. Or just want to look that way.
• Also enjoyable? The conversation the woman next to me had. With herself.
• That even though I did find a lot at Stein-Mart that turned me on - I thought - I still managed to drop a few dollars there. Meaning, apparently I can spend money anywhere!
• I have to give myself credit - in that way, I am more talented than I thought.

Youth. Vanity. Keeping the frumpy away.

Went to the dentist today. Not one of my favorite activities - no need to expound on why. Just not something I enjoy. Yet I do it - naturally. It's a necessity.

When I am there, I am there for business. It's not a social call. To the dentist and her assistants, I don't really want to chat about my kids or what's new or what movies I've seen recently - we don't have that sort of relationship. The dental assistant commented on something not dental, and I mentioned that my doctor was aware of it. She persisted in offering advice, and I repeated, yes, my doctor is aware of it. (And thanks for your non-expert opinion, lady.)

Is it any wonder I hate going?

But that is beside the point. The bigger point, today, is my youth obsession. Must hold onto what I have - the grey hairs and the upcoming bifocals are reality, but I still look - and act - fairly youthful. All of those years of being carded in bars (til my late 20s - and last month!) and being denied access to R-rated films are paying off. I may have looked 12 at 17, but now I look 35 forever ...

To clarify, I am not youth obsessed, but merely cognizant. I do not want to look prematurely old or frumpy. Lucky for my girls, I am a fun mom, a cool mom - but not too fun or too cool. Because that gets me nowhere, really.

And lucky for me, there is literature to support me as I hold onto eternal youth. Sunday's Houston Chronicle is full of little gems; these bits of wisdom can help you look like a stunning woman rather than a fashionless grandmother - and those two words are not, in fact, mutually exclusive.

From Christian Dior:
• Avoid too much makeup
• Always wear earrings
• Don't forget, a bag is not a wastepaper basket
• Jewelry - I prefer the finest to the biggest. To wear a big diamond on your finger means only that you have a lot of money - it means nothing in elegance.
• Shoes - It is by her feet that you can judge whether a woman is elegant or not.
• A lot of woman today should go back to school again and learn the art of walking because it is extremely important.
• Anything you do, work or pleasure, you have to do it with zest.

Ten Things You Can Do To Take Off Ten Years:
• Pick pink for your pout - How about a lighter red?
• Arch your eyebrows upward - Done!
• Cover grey brow hairs with pencil and powder - lucky me, don't have this problem
• Slim down your eyeliner - OK
• Falsify a few eyelashes - Considering
• Don't outline your lips with dark liner - Done!
• Lighten up on the foundation and powder - Don't use foundation
• Unchain your reading glasses - Don't have any ... yet
• Lose the suit. Switch up the pieces instead - I don't even own an actual suit, though I have the separates
• Slip on heels or high-heeled boots - Wiggle room here - sometimes it's about comfort
• A skirt should hit right at the knee - too short or too long ruins the look - Done!

So the last one was a bonus. Bottom line? Fashion changes constantly, and you've got to keep up. You don't have to go nuts every year, but it's worth it to buy one amazing piece each season to work with what you have.

I'm working hard on keeping the dowdy look at bay. But not too hard, because really, I'm just lucky that way. As I said, all those years of looking too young are playing to my advantage. But it's nice to have a few tips to help me as I ease into my late 30s.

Or so I keep telling myself.

Back to school = organization

The girls went back to school today. So:

Check this out:



My very clean and organized desk. It's a new look for me - no mess, no paper scraps, no post-it notes, no books, no files.

Consider it one of my resolutions for the New Year. It was on my list of things to do this week. It's not an overly ambitious list, just one big task a day (and yes, clearing off this desk counted as a big task, as it involved filing and organizing the cabinets-that-are-so-good-at-disguising-clutter.

This desk is great - I love the streamlined, Swedish modern look. But it really only works if it is kept tidy. Thus I'd like to keep this room looking great and not have to go into mad-panic-cleaning mode whenever we have company, as this room, my office, doubles as our guest room. If I had chosen to, I could have included a second shot, one that shows the very neat and organized bookcases (well, they always look that way - how can bookcases be disorderly?) and the general absence of miscellaneous paraphernalia throughout the room. But I'll let you use your imagination.

You can just stare at my desk and enjoy the calming effect of space.

In other news today:

• I'm glad I tuned into the repeat of Saturday night's debate yesterday (thank you, NPR) as I had missed bits of it. Several thoughts, among them:

I don't always disagree with Ron Paul - he is essentially a Libertarian, and I respect him/them for the consistency. However, he/they do not want ANY government spending, and I'm not sure that's an idea I can totally support - no libraries? no support for schools? no assistance of any kind? That might sound extreme, but essentially that's their bottom line.

And I'm curious about Mitt Romney's statement that the group who really lacks health insurance is those who make more than $75,000/year - I'd like to see the documentation on that.

• My husband finally got around to hanging our above-the-fireplace artwork - no photo, but maybe some other time. It's not a piece of wrought-iron scrollwork, but don't tell my HOA, as I think it's required decorating here.

• My husband is great. Even though he, once again, loaded dirty dishes on top of the clean dishes in the dishwasher. He means well, but he really cannot tell the difference. Nor look at the indicator light on the door. Nor think to ask me. But he is always properly remorseful.

Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert come back tonight - I'm looking forward to it!

That and enjoying my very clean room. Tune in for further installments: Tidy pantry, organized linen closet, straightened wrapping paper closet.

All in good time, folks, all in good time.

Customer service (or lack thereof)

I've become the customer everyone hates.

Why? Because I demand service. Proper service. And at the proper time.

Even worse, I am not hesitant to point it out.

I turned in a McDonald's employee I saw leaving the restroom without washing her hands (though I felt bad because she was crying as she left). I reported the rude flight attendant on United (got a voucher for United). And I complained about the salesclerk at Kohls (the manager didn't seem too concerned, frankly).

I should point out that I also recognize good customer service - our local post office gets a bad rap from people in my subdivision, but they have been nothing but courteous and accommodating when I've been there - which is a lot, by the way, especially the time before our house was completed and we were in temporary digs, as I had to pick up my mail every day. I think our area has just grown too fast and it's tough for them to keep up. But they deserve some credit for doing the best they can and always smiling when they're with me.

And I think rude customers should be held accountable, too; it is not right to mistreat the waitstaff or the sales help - they're just doing their job. In fact, we were such excellent customers at Balthazar in Manhattan that we scored a box of free dessert - though I doubt that had much to do with our excellent manners and more with our server's interest in one of our party - !

So I'm not really all that bad. And I don't complain every day. Even yesterday, when I had three slightly negative experiences. Though one isn't really customer service, but I'll tell it regardless.

No. 1: My mother-in-law sent the girls pre-paid VISA cards for Christmas. They tried to use them, and it turned out, we hadn't read the fine print: We needed to activate them. So I gave the girls cash and figured I could use them. Went online yesterday, and it turns out I am opening an account with this VISA company (the name escapes me). I now have three, preloaded, reloadable VISAs. They were purchased with a value of $25 and there was a $9.95 activation fee for each one! I cannot believe my MIL did that - did she not notice? Outrageous - it's like usury. I went ahead and activated them, so I now I have these three accounts. I'll get the cards in seven business days (for an additional $19.95 I could have had them overnight - !); as of Jan. 15 they will be assessed a $4.95 usage fee. Gasp - what was she thinking? My plan is to use them immediately and destroy them. But I had to open an entire account in order to use them, which irritates me - I do not need any more credit cards, thank you. I should say something to my MIL, but I hate to be critical, so I'm thinking about how to handle this so she doesn't get defensive. I know she just wanted to give the girls shopping options, but these cards are a major rip-off. Next time, I would suggest cash.

No. 2: This is the best one: Took Sylvia to Justice to return a Christmas gift. Justice is a less expensive, more appropriate version of Limited Too (ie, they don't sell thongs to 8-year-olds). Wow, is it pastel in there - Sylvia and her friends are completely smitten. Had to ask for help getting an item from a very tall rack, and the one employee was on the phone - had been for a while. When we went to check out, the girl on the phone summoned the other clerk without missing a beat in her conversation, which sounded personal to me ("Was it your Sprint or your other one? Uh huh.") Maddie and Sylvia's friend are both in line to make separate purchases, as are others, and this girl continues to talk. So I turned to the woman behind me and said, "It may be awhile - she's on the phone on a personal call." Keeping in mind it's been at least 15 minutes by now. The woman behind did not miss a beat - she asked the clerk, "Is she on a personal call?" The clerk said, "She's the assistant manager and she's talking to someone from another store. But she isn't allowed to use the register anyway." Excuse me? That makes no sense. The woman and I just shook our heads. The line gets longer; finally, by the time Maddie and Isabelle have checked out, the asst. manager finally says, "OK, I gotta go," (she is right at the counter, and we can all hear her) promptly opening the register (thought it wasn't allowed ...). When the woman behind me got up there, she very casually asked for the name of the store manager. I'm sure she'll get an earful.

No. 3: We can knock No Country for Old Men off the list - saw it last night and liked it - verrry suspenseful - I was on the edge of my seat! We were a few minutes into the movie when we realized the door to the theatre was open, letting in both light and noise - a great deal of noise. And no one seemed to notice - the corridor outside had employees but no one shut it. Finally, when you could hear the phone conversation coming in, nearly as loud as the movie, Gary got up and shut it. At primetime prices, I want to hear the movie, not someone outside on the phone.

See? I'm not really unreasonable. I just want what I'm entitled to. This year I am going to make a real effort to commend good service, not just complain about the bad. That way I can balance out the guilt I feel for reporting people.

Salesclerk of Houston: Consider yourself warned ...

Killer freeways vs. free Margaritas

Of all the things I dislike about Houston (and there are a few, though they are less about Houston and more about the 'burbs), the traffic is No. 1.

Until you've lived in a city this size, with freeways, you don't know traffic. Sure, Chicago and LA, anywhere on the East Coast, you're competing. But for my money, Chicago is easy - even driving in the city. And St. Louis, Kansas City, and Indianapolis are a snap. I'm no longer intimidated by any of those cities. Only cities in Europe, or maybe Mexico City or Tokyo, give me pause.

Yesterday I had to brave the roads twice - once when I headed south of I-10 for the Hillary Hub, where I was one of many Hillraisers " ... participating in more than 150 Hillary Hubs around the country in a critical effort to raise $1 million in one day for our campaign. As the primary moves to New Hampshire - where we have a great organization and support, as well as endorsements from several major newspapers - we still need the support of people like you ... "

You get the idea. The script had lots and lots of talking points, but I could only focus on a couple, otherwise I would trip over my words. I got a few people to give, lots of others had just given (like last week - that should be noted in the database) and others just couldn't do it at the moment. But no one was rude or just said No.

Kind of fun. I'm still not totally committed to Hillary - I'm playing the field - but I have to say, I enjoyed the energy of being with a group of volunteers all working for a common goal, and being part of the effort. And I enjoyed the hourly conference calls that gave us a little pep talk - we heard from Hillary AND Bill - pretty exciting. Though I'm easily star-struck, perhaps.

My only complaint? Why did they have to print out those phone lists in such teeny tiny print? I had to hold it a foot in front of me to read those itty bitty numbers, and I was constantly asking the young(er) woman next to me for help - is it an 8? a 6? a 3?

I've known that bifocals were on the way, but it's more evident now than ever. Sigh ...

Then last night I had to head out on those roads a second time to attend a 30-year celebration for one of Gary's colleagues. They had a dinner at a Mexican restaurant - with spouses - and endless Margaritas - weak Margaritas, by the way. It was OK - it was a spouse corporate event - enough said. But lucky for me, not too much work chatter. Those engines and the sales philosophy is only interesting to a point, you know?

We were home by 7.30. And after a busy day soliciting volunteers and being social, I was beat. Next time they should start the party later than 4.

Traffic. Phone calls. Margaritas. Shop talk.

I think I've covered it.

Election Time

It's official: Mike Huckabee and Barack Obama are the frontrunners.

For now, anyway - this can all change in the weeks - well, days - ahead.

We tuned in to the Iowa Caucuses last night. It's fascinating - what does it mean, exactly, to caucus?!? Alison was asking for an explanation - I think the room divides into groups and you join the group for the candidate you support. Sounds more fun, and more social, than merely voting in a primary. I think we should all institute caucuses - great way to meet people.

But seriously ... we turned on CNN and watched pretty closely at first. Huckabee was declared the apparent winner very early on; the Democrats use a different system so it took longer. We took a break so I could read to Sylvia (From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, one of my childhood favorites) and Gary watched football. So it took a bit longer - after 9 - before we knew that Obama had been declared the winner for the Democrats. Joe Biden and Chris Dodd are both out.

But nothing is for sure. Remember Howard Dean?

With this news in, I am still undecided. I am attending a Hillary Hub today, though I'm not entirely sure she's the candidate I support. However, I can certainly work for a woman for president, so I am willing to give some time. My ideal candidate has no chance, the other candidate who intrigues me also has no chance. The candidate I see as a hidden gem has, sadly, little chance. Of the remaining candidates, I like John Edwards. And he is still in there.

I don't dislike any of them - I could support Obama (even with his lack of real experience - maybe good intentions and values are more important, and we're on the same page there) and I've already said, I could - and will - support Clinton. If any woman has the nerves of steel for the job, it's her.

I'm just glad I have 11 more months to watch and see. Though the candidates will be chosen long before then. In some ways, makes me long for Great Britain, where the candidates only campaign for a few weeks. But of course, you're not really voting for your candidate but for your party. And you stuck with the royal family. And no written constitution.

Maybe I'll stick with what I've got. Plus it makes for good reading over the next few months. Stay tuned ...

The quiet hour

The girls are not yet up, which means I have the house to myself. I love this time of day. I have the radio on, so I can get the update on the Iowa caucuses and the late night shows I forgot to set the DVR for (I think I got the whole scoop, so I'm good). Not even the dog is up (without the kids, why bother?) so I can enjoy my solitude, plan my day.

Yesterday we loaded up one Christmas tree, watched one bad movie - we had to, as we had to see if the DVR was working (last week, out of nowhere, everything on it was flagged as ready to be deleted. I cleared it out, but everything was gone within two days. So I reset it and had to make sure it was working) - and then we headed to the mall. Maddie had some items to exchange (she bought some items in the wrong size) and Sylvia's $10 was burning the proverbial hole in her pocket. So she is the proud owner of yet another Webkinz. And I have new boots - my old short black boots have sort of a roundish toe, and I decided I needed a pointier toe. Done - and such a bargain!

So today I must finish packing up the Xmas decorations. Putting them out is so much fun - we oooh and aaah over each ornament, remembering who made what and when, marveling at the girls' 2-year-old artistic skills, fondly recalling certain vacations or times in our lives. So special - it is such fun. Except that one member of my family is sort of grinch-like at times and seems to feel that perhaps four trees are beyond necessary. With which I disagree heartily ... until today, when I have to put all this stuff away and this family member has gone back to work. Sigh. At which point I feel like four Christmas trees is, indeed, excessive. We put away two last night, so only two remain. Though we did pack up all the ornaments. And remember how I just said each ornament is special, has a story? Suddenly, last night, I was seeing ornaments whose provenance is a mystery - I have no idea where they came from nor what their relevance to our lives is. They were tossed into the box, or wrapped, and packed away. Maybe next year my memory will return.

I am also culling the decorations, getting rid of stuff we no longer use. And there is a bunch of it - some of it has been gifts, some of it, who knows. But it's going. (And that will include an item a well-meaning relative gave me just this year - not my style, no place to put it, so may as well freecycle it to a better home).

It's still quiet. And the newspaper awaits .... good day, all!

Everyone's a Critic

I may not write movie reviews for a living, but it doesn't mean I don't know what I like. And frankly, just a because a critic likes it doesn't mean it's great (re: My Dinner with Andre ... though perhaps I would feel differently if I watched it again - that can happen).

Keeping in mind that I have not seen every movie released in 2007, these are my favorites, in no particular order:

The Lives of Others - Fabulous German film about life behind the Berlin wall, working against the system, and relationships. Highly recommend.

Waitress - Quirky comedy about a woman in a miserable relationship who channels her energy into making pies with themes that relate to her hellish husband and unborn child. Great supporting cast; notable, too, for the death of the writer/director, Adrienne Shelly, who was murdered just as her film rose to prominence.

Sicko - I don't blame people who don't like Michael Moore - and there were a few horrific Moore-esque moments in this film - but I am, admittedly, not one of them - I think he's a riot (not to mention spot on). But the message - Americans deserve better, affordable health care - was hard to find fault with, even if you despise his tactics.

Atonement - Very good period piece - one of those British dramas, circa 1935, that you have to love watching: beautiful country estate, divine costumes, attractive people, great story. Heard the book is better. Not as good as the hype; not the best movie of the year. The "surprise" at the end is not one you can't predict. But good. And I'm not a big Keira Knightley fan.

Gone Baby Gone - Wow. Did not see that ending coming. Great acting, gritty story. Not an upper, but a great look at the other half. Underrated gem.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street - Great film adaptation of the Broadway musical. Three reasons to see this film: Stephen Sondheim (who wrote Sweeney Todd); Johnny Depp (enough said); and Tim Burton - I generally like him, and often like the Burton/Depp collaborations. Plus Helena Bonham Carter, who is underrated. Be forewarned: It is bloody and gory. But it holds your attention just the same.

Juno - It's all about good writing, and this one had it. Maybe the dialogue is too clever, but it's a movie - do I really want to hear a conversation like I could have at home? Loved it. That Ellen Page was a riot - watch for her.

Movies I want to see (and will, just haven't gotten around to it):

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead - Hear it's great.

This Is England - Gritty English working-class youth in the 80s - I must see this!

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly - The reviews are amazing. I don't quite get it; hope it's not going to disappoint.

The Savages - Maybe I'll wait til it's on DVD and watch it with my brother ...

Michael Clayton - Not big on the corporate thriller, but it has George Clooney. And good writing. I'm in.

Superbad - Sophomoric, I know, but funny, all the same ...

Away From Her - I hear the performances are fabulous.

Margot at the Wedding - Even though it has that insufferable Nicole Kidman, I think it looks good. Jennifer Jason Leigh should redeem it.

Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story - Just sounds funny, and I love John C. Reilly.

Death at a Funeral - I'm always up for a good British comedy.

American Gangster - Denzel Washington - need I say more?

No Country for Old Men - The Coen Brothers are my favorite!

La Vie en Rose - For Marion Cotillard's performance, if not for the film itself, which I hear is mediocre.

Movies I will see, even though I'm not particularly excited:

There Will Be Blood - I know, I know: It's based on an Upton Sinclair novel. The reviews are good. It has Daniel Day Lewis. I'm not excited. But the reviews are good. And my husband wants to go.


Movies that were entertaining, if not the best of the year:

Enchanted - Cute Disney-ish film. Amy Adams is a delight. And we love scouting out the NYC locations.

No Reservations - Not great art, but entertaining enough. Don't like the Catherine Zeta Jones, but I like Aaron Eckhart.

Hairspray - I do love my Broadway.

Movies that inexplicably made other "best of" lists, but not mine:

The Namesake - It was OK, but the trailers were very misleading. And the ending was a dud - it just fizzled. Not worth the hype.

Movies I refuse to see:

Charlie Wilson's War - Because it took place here in Houston, I have had to read all about it. I've heard enough. The other reason? Julia Roberts. Ick.

Ocean's 13 - No thank you.

PS I Love You (or anything of that ilk) - I love a good romantic comedy. Key word is good; the previews totally give this one away as anything but.

License to Wed - Heard it is terrible. Too awful for words. Is Robin Williams that desperate for a paycheck? And Mandy Moore - we loved you in American Dreamz and Saved - don't stoop to this level!

Anything starring Diane Keaton - Has this woman lost her mind? This woman, Annie Hall, is turning out total crap. Makes me cringe.

Movie I caught on DVD just this year:

Junebug - Delightful. And a reminder that everyone's family - not just yours - has a certain level of crazy. And again, that Amy Adams is great.

Holding my breath for the Academy Awards ... they are totally political and mean very little, really (Reese Witherspoon over Felicity Huffman? Come on!). But I always get sucked in.

And frankly, I would match my list of the top films of the year against any critic. However, I am considering myself lucky - critics had to sit through PS I Love You, and I only had to watch the trailer to know that it was a klinker!

Happy New Year!

2008. Wow.

The passage of time never ceases to amaze me - the speed at which it occurs is alarming. Part of me feels like a sophomore in high school, partying in a classmate's basement, while another part of me is celebrating the new year with my brand-new infant daughter. Or my third infant daughter in a foreign country.

None of these scenarios is the me of today - the most recent of those events is nine years old. The me of today rang in the new year with my husband and two of my three daughters at a neighbor's party (the eldest no longer finds us cool enough to party with), then went to another friend's for a New Year's Day open house, where we toasted the year's possibilities.

The possibilities overwhelm me - they are endless. The open house today confirmed that - we were with a very special group of our Houston friends, mostly church friends, and they are an amazing assortment of people. A list of their talents, education, and accomplishments would amaze you - it always does me. (Houston is too big, but in Peoria and Lafayette, places where I felt more connected, when I would glance through a list of movers and shakers in town, the number who went to my church was shocking. My editor always laughed about how many letter writers to the newspaper were people I knew from church.)

So today I was forced to confront the new year and deal with it head on. But I did so in the company of great friends, people whom I know will make a difference in 2008. It was a good feeling. A lot is set to happen this year - it's an election year, after all - but rather than dreading any of the changes in store, today, we were feeling optimistic, energized by the possibilities.

Plus David Letterman and Law & Order both return soon ... does it really get any better than that?!?

Dinner for One

A German New Year's tradition:

Goodbye, 2007

It was not a year of cataclysmic change for us.

There were no births, no deaths, no beginnings or endings. No moves, no changing of schools or houses.

For us, 2007 was a quiet year. We were not rocked by any major upheavals. For us, that is a good thing. We had a broken bone and a surgery, braces put on, and some migraines. For us, this is situation normal.

The only event that comes close to being monumental - and in its own way, it is - is Alison's turning 16 and getting her permit. But she won't have the license for a few more weeks, which means it's a 2008 event.

Everyone turned a year older, but other than 16, the other birthdays were not the type that herald life change.

But it was, in most ways, a good year. The girls learned and grew; I am proud of the people they've become and revel in watching them evolve into strong young women.

Thus it is with great peace of mind that we forge ahead into 2008. In some ways it's hard to believe that we are eight years past the century mark - I remember as a kid how far away the year 2000 seemed. I knew how old I would be - in my 30s! - and it all seemed so, so far into the distant future. And now it is nearly a decade behind me. I am certifiably a grown-up (even if I don't always feel, much less act, like one).

But all in all, I know how fortunate I am. Gary and I will celebrate our (gulp) 20-year anniversary next year, a feat I do not take lightly, given how many couples do not make it that far. We have three amazing daughters who are destined to do wonderful things. Gary has seen amazing success in his career, and I have seen some. Yet I know that I have time to work on some projects that are underway.

I tend to be tight-lipped about what works are in progress, for me or for my family. I was never one to share the baby names we were considering. So I'll not go into the plans we have for the following year - mostly because it is much too early to say which ones are likely to come to fruition. Suffice it to say, 2008 will be a year of more change than this one has been. Which is OK with me - nothing ever stays the same, really.

As long as the change is for the better, it's all good.

Farewell, 2007 - and 2008, be sure to hold up your end of the bargain. We're headed out to party with friends - Happy New Year!

Christmas vacation

I love the days when we're all home - Gary and I are both off work, the girls are home, no visitors, just us. We have spent the last few days with good food, games, toys, movies, and the kids. And it has been wonderful - there is no better way to spend a holiday than with children. The girls are enoying their Christmas gifts, and we are having fun just being with them.

And while gifts are not the most important part of Christmas, it is hard to deny their significance. As a parent, it is incredibly satisfying to be able to give your children not only what they need, but some of what they want. This year we succeeded. Alison actually got everything she wanted - probably not true for the other two, who lacked a couple of items on their list. But their lists are lengthy, so I don't think they are complaining. All I've heard for the last two days is the sound of the girls playing together. Well, that and the strains of Rufus Wainwright singing Judy Garland ... one of my favorite gifts ...

Today we ventured down inside the loop to see Lucy at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. This is her first trip - ever - outside Ethiopia, so it's quite a coup for the musuem. Lucy is the Australopithicus afarensis, discovered in 1974, that predates home sapiens, apparently the oldest and most complete prehuman evert found. Fascinating stuff. The exhbit was well done - quite a bit on Ethiopia and its "uniqueness" (a word I am generally hesitant to use, but I would say here it applies), from a religious, cultural and anthropological standpoint. The skeleton/fossil itself is pretty amazing - and I am always amazed at what anthropologists are able to tell from mere skeletal remains.

I am also amazed by those who look at this evidence and can refute the belief in evolution. And don't play the religion card - my high school science teacher, along with a physics colleague of my father's who was Assemblies of God, and many other noted scientists all say the same thing: It is possible to be a Christian and a scientist. As my high school teacher put it: I am a Christian and I am a scientist. And I have no problem reconciling those two beliefs. There is no litmus test for one or the other.

Following our visit to see Lucy (we were suitably impressed), we went to Katz's deli for lunch. We love the one in New York, so we figured we should try out the local version. While it did not have the ambience of the original, the buidling effectively recreated eating in a downtown venue circa 1940 - re-created tin ceilings, iron balustrades, tile floors, subway signs, and enough NYC memorobilia on the walls that one could feel, if even for just a moment, that Delancey Street was just outside. The pastrami was great, and the kosher dogs satisfied the girls. And the knish ... perhaps not as good as the original, maybe not even as good as the kosher joint where we ate in Estes Park. But good enough for today.

Tomorrow the girls are ready to venture to the mall - the gift cards are making them antsy. So much for holiday tranquility ...

Loose ends

A mother's work is never done. It's a recurring theme here - this I know - but it is, none the less, true.

All the other mothers out there who read this - past or present - you know what I'm saying.

I also know that I will miss the girls when they are gone. I can wait for my house to be clean and quiet. I can. Plus, I know that if I threaten enough (threats are on my side - it's four days til Christmas) the girls will pitch in and the house will be in order sometime tomorrow.

Today I am heading off to Sylvia's class party. We did not buy individual teacher gifts, but chipped in for the group gift - a practice I heartily endorse. Get her one big thing, not 25 little nothings. Plus each of the kids drew her a picture or wrote a letter - that is even more meaningful. Then we'll meet Gary for lunch - sans Alison, who went to the movies with friends. Take Maddie to the eye doctor, where we should get the okey-dokey on her contact usage, then drop her off at the movies. Need to get one thing at Hobby Lobby, and it seems like I need to run to Target, though I can't remember why.

There are a bunch o' movies I want to see: Sweeney Todd, Juno, Walk Hard, take the kids to The Golden Compass. Plus movies I want to watch at home - I have Keeping Up With the Steins on TiVo and The Namesake from Netflix. We want to see Lucy at the science museum, eat at Katz's.

And just hang with the girls. That's what the holidays are all about for me - being with the girls, my husband.

Sylvia and Alison went online last night and checked the Naughty and Nice list - Sylvia is on it! She even answered the questions honestly, admitting that her room is not always, um, pristine. She really is a good kid!

Four more days, folks; four more days ...

Winding down

Sigh.

My holiday preparations are nearly over - I am nearly at the point where I can sit back and relax. Take it easy. Enjoy.

I am so ready.

A friend mentioned yesterday that her kids get the week before Christmas off then go back to school Jan. 2. My immediate reaction was horror - without this week free of kids, I would have been totally screwed.

(Plus they would have driven me NUTS with Christmas anticipation. Best that they are in school seven hours a day - kept busy and out of my hair.)

Monday I shopshopshopped. Got loads done. Monday night we partied - well, the best you can party with your husband's colleagues. Lucky for me, not too much shop talk - discussions of NPIs, dealers, and OEDs is dull, dull, dull. Probably even for those who work there, I'm guessing.

Tuesday Gary and I took the day and went to the Galleria. Let me just say, I love the Galleria. It is the ultimate shopping experience - it's just a mall, but it's so much more than a mall. The main part, with the ice skating rink, has fancy stores. Nieman Marcus is the anchor store, and the three levels overlooking the ice rink are lined with all the highest end stores: Caroline Herrera, Stuart Weitzman, Jimmy Choo, Versace. I just look and sigh ... the clothes are so lovely, but just too rich for me. On the sale rack at Stuart Weitzman, shoes were still over $200 a pair - I cannot justify those prices.

(But it dawned on me: If we sold this house and downsized, paid cash for a little three-bedroom ranch, then we'd be mortgage free and I could, in fact, afford to shop those places ... it's worth a thought, anyway ...)

The other leg of the Galleria is just like a regular mall - Macy's, Urban Outfitters, basic mall fare (even a Kirkland's). And a Hello Kitty store - too bad we've pretty much outgrown Hello Kitty. We popped into the Apple Store, Border's, resisted the urge to look in Ann Taylor - even though it is HUGE compared to my local one ... got a bunch o' stuff taken care of.

Gary chose a charming little place for lunch - which was closed - so we ate at the Firkin & Phoenix (did you go to the Ferret & Firkin in London, Amy?). Then headed back toward home, making a few stops on the way.

Remainder of the evening was spent at a middle school band concert - enough said.

Wednesday, Holiday Karma was mine. I packed up all the out-of-town purchases and headed over to the post office. Our local post office has a line out the door in July, much less December. And when I walked in? Nothing - relatively speaking - I was fifth in the queue! People around here give our local post office a hard time, but I have had nothing but success. Next stop: Target. Picked up all those final odds and ends (to the tune of many $$$), and went to wait at the very busy cash registers. Waited, waited ... when voilá! the register DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF ME opened right up - just for me! Some days, this is all it takes ...

Headed home, began the cookie baking for the Wednesday evening cookie exchange: cream cheese spritz. Threw in the margarine, the cream cheese, and found out, at this inopportune moment, that my darling eldest daughter had finished off the flour Monday night ... ran to the store, mixed up the dough, had to relearn the cookie press (this happens every year), and began to crank out my 10 dozen cookies. Lesson No. 2: The dough will not work when it gets too warm. I worked for three hours on cookies, and my kitchen was a total disaster by the time I was done. (Plus the girls came home and "helped" me with the sprinkles ... enough said.)

But the party was fun, and I have a bunch of really yummy cookies to show for my hard work.

Today I made one last run to the mall and have tried - with little success - to get the house in order. Plus I am working on my cards - I think if they get out between now and January 1, I will feel successful.

If you're still with me - and that is debatable, I must say - you can understand my exhaustion. I am beat, but I am upbeat. Tomorrow I am going to Sylvia's party at school, taking Maddie to the eye doctor, and shuttling kids to the movies. (Yes, I am allowing my daughter to see The Golden Compass, and I'm not too worried that she'll be corrupted - it's fiction, and I think my children are smart enough to think for themselves and not be unduly influenced by a book. For the record, they also saw The Chronicles of Narnia, so I think they'll be OK.)

Our party tomorrow evening got canceled, so we can take it easy for the entire weekend.

Sounds great to me!

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Busy day ... much to do ... and much to say, but no time. However, I have time to share some very bad snapshots with you. It's as good we get for now - the girls were hard to work with when I snapped them, and Alison could not seem to get a decent photo of the two of us.



We looked lovely - the camera, in fact, does lie.



I think a new camera is in order.

Holiday rush

Loud. Crowded. Too much input.

That was the mall this weekend. We were there - Gary and I and all three girls. The girls went one way, Gary and I another. But we got very little shopping done - there was no way I was standing in those lines. I figured a weekday would suit me better.

Which it did. I started my morning at DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse) - It is a full 25-minute drive, but some days, it is just worth it. Today would be one of those days - I decided I need new shoes for the big office bash tonight (Gary's office, not mine). I got a dress, matching coat, and I was, at first, content to wear old shoes. Upon further reflection, I decided it would look very bad for Gary if I wore old shoes with a new dress; I am thoughtful that way. DSW did not disappoint - I saw just what I wanted. I am hard to please: they had to be grey or silver; dressy, but not too high (I need to be able to walk and balance); and closed-toe - it might be chilly so I may want to wear pantyhose (something I rarely do, by the way) and I am in no mood for a pedicure. I found all of my requirements - and on the sale table, too.

The party tonight is cocktail attire, more casual than last year (black tie). It will be fine - they're his colleagues, not our friends - not the biggest social event of the year, but fun enough.

Made it to the mall, where the lines were mercifully short. Made purchases at four stores; took care of most of the shopping for the girls, my one and only niece. Still need to buy for my parents (but I know what I'm getting), the in-laws (no ideas; I have told Gary to let me know what I should get .... this is typical ....)

The rest of the week is very full: Tomorrow is our annual shopping day (Gary and I) where we shop (supposedly) and go out to lunch, spend the day together. Wednesday I must bake cookies for a cookie exchange; Thursday Alison goes to school late; Friday is a half day, and I'll be attending Sylvia's party.

Not sure where the cards fit in; they'll come sometime during the holiday season - Kwanzaa lasts until early January, so I'm good (!) On a brighter note, I found the Barenaked Ladies CD, so we can jam to Christmas/Hanukkah/Solstice music in the car - the girls love it, and I do, too - it is a pop-music multicultural musical extravaganza and always puts us in the holiday spirit. Nothing llike celebrating the diversity of the season!

On that note, may you celebrate the holiday that means the most to you, and in the words of Kinky Friedman, May the God of your choice bless you!

Great Day

It's Friday - my favorite day of the week. And I am feeling good ...

• I have gotten bunches of work done today. Turned in some stuff before Tuesday's deadline - score one for me!
• I finally - finally! - received a paycheck for some freelance work I did weeks ago. The editor apologized for a "cash flow" problem in a group e-mail; I'm wondering how many writers they lose next time.
• No matter - I have a hefty deposit to make at the bank.
• Plus now I feel as I am actually paying for the expensive gift I plan to buy Gary for Christmas.
• Fired off a letter to the editor this morning; I often think about it, but rarely actually write them. Having worked as an editor on the Opinions page, I know that it's better to wait and write when it really matters - save your ammo for when you really need it.
• I'm getting the last of the decorations out - finished up the Evergleam, found the dreidel (even though it's past Hanukkah). By tonight, the boxes will be back in the attic.
• My desk will be cleaned up by the end of the day - that is a rare sight.
• I am even ambitious enough that I think the kids' rooms will be tidy by the end of today.
• OK - by the end of the weekend. That's more realistic.
• Still need to get groceries (yuck - job I hate) and finish my shopping. But I have all of next week - Gary is even taking Tuesday off so we can shop together. We do this every year ... and to be honest, it's more about the two of us hanging out, going to lunch. But still, we consider it a day of shopping. That's what we tell the kids.

In order for the day to be perfect, I need to vacuum and drop off the recycling. But being the eternal optimist, I'll consider the possibility still in the cards.

I do love a Friday.

Religion and politics

I'm closely watching the race for president. I know, I know - the election isn't for 11 months. But I confess - I love the campaign process.

Except for one thing: I want religion off the table.

I don't care who attends which church. I don't think it should be an issue. I don't care that Mitt Romney is Mormon - I am not likely to vote for him, but his church of choice has nothing to do with it. And my guess is there is a Mormon or two out there who won't support him, either. I am also not likely to vote for people of many other faiths - there are people at my own church I might not vote for if they were running.

It's really not an issue, what you believe or how you believe it. Faith in a God - or lack of - has absolutely nothing to do with public policy. The job of the president is to run our government. And one needs to be able to make wise decisions. Enlighten me, if you will, as to how religion affects one's judgment.

Let's face it: A lot of people who consider themselves church-going, committed to their faith, or spiritual have made bad decisions in the past. Look at Jim Baker and Jimmy Swaggert. Or Pat Robertson and his irresponsible comments. Has their faith helped them?

On the other hand, Jimmy Carter is very open about his faith, and he was not terribly effective as president. (Though as a former president, he is a role model.) I don't know that Ronald Reagan was all that religious, and people loved him. Bill Clinton claims to be a man of faith, but it didn't stop him from cheating on his wife.

This week's Newsweek ran an article about the dispute between Mitt Romney and Mike Huckabee, including a little boxed comparison of Mormons and Evangelicals. What I found most shocking was that, under Evangelicals, it claimed that salvation comes from a personal relationship with God, but actions on earth do not count.

So how you live your life, how you treat others, has nothing to do with salvation? A mass-murdered who feels they have a close personal relationship with God will come out OK in the end?

(This was not the case for Mormons, according to the 30-word synopsis provided by Newsweek - actions in this life do count.)

I doubt that all Evangelicals would agree with this assessment - I'm sure many of them believe that how they live their life is, in fact, relevant. But I'm a little alarmed by this concept. What happened to "Do unto others ..." and telling the disciples to give up their earthly possessions and go with Christ?

This is why I want it off the table - there are too many interpretations, and bottom, line, it doesn't benefit the entire country. I don't want any more discussion of who believes what. I don't think one need be a Christian in order to be president - we are not a theocracy. The founding fathers wanted a very clear separation of church and state - in no way did they want one belief system to dominate.

More important is how these candidates will handle national policy, what kind of laws they will enact. Whether or not they will attend forums on global warming, provide health insurance to all Americans, protect our rights, improve education, research alternative energy sources, and allocate tax dollars. And it does not take adherence to particular religious dogma to make those decisions in the best interest of all Americans.

Note to Mitch Albom

Dear Mitch:

Please stop. You have now written the same book three times. I read Tuesdays with Morrie, and it was OK. You followed up with The Five People You Meet in Heaven (which I read while sitting in my local Barnes and Noble in about 20 minutes - and those are 20 minutes I'll never see again), and now you have this schlock you are calling For One More Day, the movie version of which is taking up valuable air time on my television this very evening.

It is like a saccharine overdose, and I don't think I can stand anymore. Please put us out of our collective misery - no more. OK, so you're a sensitive guy and like to ruminate on What If's ... and Ways Life Coulda/Shoulda/Woulda. We get it already. Move on to another genre. Go back to sports writing. Get busy on a political exposé - surely some politician in Michigan is up to no good. Or move to DC, where there's plenty of fodder for people who can string together a sentence or two. Churn out some other crappy, overly sentimental fiction that can appeal to sappy middle-aged women. But let's leave the heartwarming revisits to our past mistakes be - enough is enough.

Sincerely,

One Who Will Never, Ever Read One of Your Books Again

Date Night x 2

Two nights out with my husband - two in a row - is an unheard of luxury in our lives. We are, after all, the parents of three children. By choice, I might add - I knew, as much as any potential parent knows, what I was in for. I knew that we'd be spending more time at home, less time out, attending fewer splashy New Year's Eve events.

Which is OK by me - I love my girls and love spending time with them. However, I still enjoy some one-on-one time with my husband, time with uninterrupted conversation. And our girls are getting older, so the opportunities are less scarce. Friday night Sylvia left on a Brownie camping trip - two nights - and both Alison and Madeleine had babysitting jobs. Gary had just flown in from Europe, so he was tired. But we went to our local sushi bar for a bite. They had live music - tunes I recognized, like a little Steely Dan (some of which I can handle), Van Morrison, the Eagles - which was fun. Gary was really beat so we came home early. But it was to get out.

Yesterday we had the two older girls, so after Maddie got home from testing at noon, we did a little shopping. Alison and Maddie are both loaded these days, so they were excited to buy Christmas gifts. They each bought a little something for themselves, but they are both very generous with their sisters; it's very sweet. I took Gary to look at watches; didn't buy, but I at least know what he likes. I bought nothing for the girls, but I have some ideas.

I did not have dress shopping on my mind at all - I was really intending to wear something I already have to Gary's office party (at a restaurant this year, not the black-tie event of last year); the invitation said cocktail attire, and I have several dresses. But I decided to look in Macy's, and after weeding through what felt like hundreds of inappropriate dresses (too slinky, too short, too many sequins, too mother-of-the-bride, too strapless, too black, too frumpy ...) I turned the corner and was met with a plethora of options - from retro Maggie London to very classy Calvin Klein. Tried on a pile of them .... and most of them made me realize I no longer look the way I did when I was 25. I did, however, find two options that looked great; bought them both. One is just a black dress, but it fit so great I could not pass it up. It can go from daytime to evening, so I am set. The other, the party dress, is a shiny pewter fabric and looks quite flattering on me - no simple task these days.

As we were leaving I popped into Ann Taylor Loft, just to see what was there ... and I saw the perfect coat, a retro-looking dress coat, white with silver brocade. Over the pewter dress = perfection. A total impulse buy, but I did it. It is shorter than the dress, but I think it looks good that way (and the sales clerk absolutely guaranteed that it does). Camelia, ever helpful, also told me it can be appropriate for daytime. I was skeptical, then not moments later a woman walked through the store with glittery trim on her clearly daytime outfit - score one for Camelia. The coat can be worn out to dinner, to church, maybe even over a simple outfit during the day. So it's mine - and at 20 percent off, too. Picked up the matching silver clutch and a necklace.

At which point I had to leave the mall, but not before taking a peek into Ann Taylor, just to see. But I held onto myself and did not buy anything (though, as usual, the choices were tempting).

(I'm guessing by now that only Tammy, maybe Peter, are still reading ....)

Date Night No. 2: We (mostly me) decided to see Atonement - it's getting lots of buzz, and is just out, at River Oaks Theatre, the place to go for fun arty flicks (so much better than your basic multiplex - a real theater, in danger, naturally, of being leveled by the "progressives" here in Houston). Maddie was babysitting again, Alison had plans. We were to drop her off at a friend's. Around 10, she said. 10? What? Well, she said, I'll just go with you to see Atonement. We sorted it all out, agreed to take her with us. Then her friend called - could Alison come earlier? The little sneak - her friend wanted her to come over earlier, but she manipulated things because she wanted to see this movie - ! Not a big deal, but we could have eaten in River Oaks if we hadn't had to drive her over to Memorial. Grrrr. Ah well, next time we'll be doing things differently.

And Alison will NOT be driving - she scared the daylights out of me on I-10. Yeesh.

The movie, by the way, was good, but not quite as good as the hype. But I always enjoy a good English period drama, and this one did not disappoint. Though the "surprise" at the end did not exactly bowl me over. After the movie, we ate at the Red Onion - casual, but great food.

And Sunday still lies ahead - with all three girls at home. We've been missing the Sylvia.

Have a great day, all!

Friday - again

The bottle of schnapps on my kitchen counter stands as a testament to the week I've had.

Single parenting is tough. Not terrible, but tough. In some ways, I don't miss my husband when he's gone. I do not feel the need to be around him 24 hours a day - I truly enjoy spending time with him, but as they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder. And for us, it's healthy to have a little time apart.

That said, I do miss having some backup in the parenting department. I had a little issue with one of my charming daughters the other night, and I know he would have backed me up. Children, left to their own devices, do not always make the best decisions. I know this; any other adult knows this. And it would have been nice to have another adult handy to reinforce this upon said daughter.

So thank goodness for the schnapps, which I added to the hot chocolate I drink. I think that schnapps in a hot beverage is acceptable at 3 p.m., don't you?!?

Makes the school bus that much easier to meet ...

I would l-o-v-e to blog about the coup I scored with my Christmas shopping, but as my children have access to, and on occasion read, this blog, I shall have to postpone sharing my fantastic news. And let's face it, in three weeks the story will have lost some of its luster. But that's the breaks, huh? Suffice to say, Go me!

My girls will be very happy on Christmas morning.

Tonight: Sylvia goes camping with the Brownies; Alison and Maddie both babysit. Gary comes home from his business trip (he landed just moments ago). Tomorrow night: Sylvia is still camping. Maddie babysits; Alison goes to a friend's house.

Two nights in a row? Kid free?

Go, me!

The Christmas Quiz

It's the traditional get-to-know your friends Christmas Quiz, courtesy of my friend Tammy. Since I am too lazy to send this in e-mail form, I am posting the answers here. I'm pretty sure I did one last year, but maybe my answers have changed?

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper mostly, but the occasional gift bag. Some gifts from Santa are not wrapped - he is much too busy.
2. REAL OR FAKE TREE? Four trees, all fake. One is from the 60s, and it does not look remotely real. Then there's the Evergleam - my guess is no one thinks the shiny aluminum tree is real.
3. When do you put up the tree? The first or second week of the month - this year we did it on the 1st.
4. When do you take the tree down? No later than New Year's Day
5. Do you like eggnog? A beverage made with raw eggs? Um, no thank you.
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Hmmm ... hard to remember. I don't ever remember being disappointed. I do remember the year I got a set of play dishes, something I had wanted for a long time. I also remember the year my brother bought me an album he hated, but he knew I wanted it.
7. Do you have a nativity scene? One. My parents brought it to us from Bethlehem.
8. Hardest person to buy for? My parents or my in-laws - they buy for themselves everything they really want or need.
9. Easiest person to buy for? My daughters - they drop lots of hints. And it's easy to make them happy.
10. Worst Christmas gift you ever got? It's a toss-up: Tupperware, from Gary's aunt. I had asked for perfume. (Go ahead - try to make the connection.) Or embroidered pillowcases from another well-meaning relative. They are so not my style - has this person every noticed how my house is decorated? Obviously not. Oh well - what can you do? Smile and say Thank You. (Though I do use the Tupperware ...)
11. Mail or e-mail Christmas cards? Mail, but I'm not sure if I'm sending any this year.
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? It's A Wonderful Life, White Christmas - I'm always in the mood for a classic.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I wait until December - no need for Christmas to take over my life.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? You bet - and I have one sitting in my closet that I am dying to regift (but I'm waiting for just the right opportunity).
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Fondue - the girls can't wait.
16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? White lights on the big tree, red lights on the smaller tree, colored lights on the smallest tree, and no lights on the Evergleam.
17. Favorite Christmas song? That's a tough one ... maybe White Christmas. I really love all the secular holiday songs - Sleigh Ride, Baby It's Cold Outside, Santa Baby, Winter Wonderland, Let It Snow ... as for traditional songs, I like It Came Upon A MIdnight Clear, Lo How a Rose Ere Blooming, Carol of the Bells, and Sing We Now of Christmas, Once in Royal David's City. Least favorite: Little Drummer Boy - can't stand it.
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? I prefer to stay home.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeers? Sure can - poem or song.
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Which tree?!? Star, choir boy, angel, and nothing
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Because Santa does not come til late at night, we have to wait until Christmas morning.
22. Where are your favorite places to shop? Not too picky - wherever my shopping takes me.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Manufactured frenzy. Too much commercialization. Greedy people.
24. What I love most about Christmas? Creating memories with my children - the five of us together. Every year we get a gift that one of the girls has made, and they are always so proud. It is very sweet.

So much to do ...

I've been absent. You'd think I'm mourning the Tigers loss.

Not so. It was disappointing, sure, but I'm over it. We didn't even buy Cotton Bowl tickets - I would, but the game is at 10.40 a.m. New Year's Day. Our options are: spend New Year's Eve in Dallas, with no one we know (my brother is not coming ... Barbara was not so keen on the idea), or get up at 3 a.m. and drive up. Neither sounds too appealing to me - though I think my husband is thinking hard ...

Tomorrow is Nikolaus Day, December 6, where Nikolaus puts kleine Geschenke in the kids' shoes. Sylvia is just beside herself - and thrilled that one of her classmates celebrates, too. They compared notes today; Sylvia had her shoes downstairs before suppertime.

I asked Alison if she were too old; she assured me that she is not. Wonder if I should leave my shoes out, too ...

The decorations are mostly out. Sylvia and I assembled the Evergleam tonight. Nothing says Merry Christmas to me like a shiny aluminum tree. I love it - just love it. It is so anti-tradition, so kitschy. This is what happens when one is a child of the 60s and 70s - those pieces of nostalgia haunt you for the rest of your life. I'll be forever enamored of fondue pots, avocado appliances, and lava lamps. (I managed to snag my parents' fondue set - in avocado, naturally - and we haul it out every Christmas.)

Nikolaus is calling for help - I'd best answer. After that, my bed beckons ...

On Friday, everything looks good

I love a Friday; it's my favorite day of the week. It holds the promise of the weekend - no work, no getting up early, just taking it easy. I have three evenings to take it easy.

Not that I'll be taking it that easy - life does not work that way when one has three children. Tonight I am being forced to see a high school play. Alison isn't even in the cast - she's on the crew. But in my official capacity as publicity mom for the drama booster club, I feel obligated. I'm sure it will be fine, but I could live with staying home. Tomorrow we have various and sundry activities, and tomorrow night is the Big Game.

Do not tell me you know not to which game I am referring. Go Tigers! ESPN's Game Day airs from San Antonio tomorrow - look for Gary's college friend Pat Forde to provide commentary.

We may even haul out the Christmas decorations. I love the holidays; I love the decorations. But it has become a chore. I remember when we lived in our first house, all our Christmas stuff fit in one box. I think we're up to about a dozen - and they ain't small. A high school friend and his family had something like 45 Christmas trees at their house - some sort of perverse hobby. Every year, as I unpack our four trees and all the miscellany that accompanies four trees, I think of them. With some empathy. And think to myself wow, they must have really loved the holidays. It takes all the energy I can muster to unpack all this stuff. And it takes a couple of days before all the empty boxes are returned to the attic.

As I said, it's a lot of work. The kids are good for, say, 30 minutes. Then they have had their fill of saying, Ooooh and Aaaah, and, Oh! I remember that one. Then they're done.

When it's done, we usually stand around and feel the love as we admire our main tree, which is truly lovely. It's designed by Yours Truly, and I am always moved by the ornaments, many of which were made by the girls or gifts to them. I love the little church, an exact replica of the one my great grandmother gave my older brother. I like our Weihnachtspyramid, a beloved souvenir of our German Christmases. I love my miniature Christmas village, comprising actual buildings in Lafayette. I love the old tree, which now sits in the game room upstairs, covered by toy ornaments; I love the small tree that sits on a landing above the front door - a second-story tree. And I love the Evergleam - what could be kitschier? And nothing says Merry Christmas quite like an aluminum tree. And I smile at Sylvia's personal decorations - a special request to Santa when she was about three. She still puts them up in her room .... I suspect this is our last year to have an actual Santa believer in our midst.

It's all charming; it's all beautiful. And when it's time to put it all away in January, it's a huge relief. One month a year is enough to have our house overrun with red and greenery, displacing furniture. It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but it's also the most hectic. As glad as I am to see it come, I'll be equally glad to pack it all away.

The excitement builds ....

I have spent much of the last two days figuring out our New Year's schedule and all the possibilities - namely, how will we manage traveling to a bowl game?!??

If Missouri wins Saturday, it's easy: We go to the BCS Bowl in New Orleans Jan. 7. If we lose, then it's all up in the air - we could end up at the Cotton Bowl, the Sugar Bowl, the Alamo Bowl (all doable), or at the Orange Bowl, Holiday Bowl or Fiesta Bowl (which really aren't - too far away). I've sent out some feelers to friends. If we go to the BCS Bowl, then my brother can't come. But if we end up in Dallas, then he and Barbara will drive down.

So, do I root for Missouri to win? Or to lose and end up at the Cotton Bowl, where we can meet up with John and Barb?

I know, I know - it's really not even a question. Much as we would love to hang out with John and Barb, I really want to go to New Orleans and vie for the national championship. But tickets may be hard to get ... John and I will talk Saturday night or Sunday after the game.

I got a remarkable amount done today - for me. Lately I am more than a little lazy. Hint for the day: Target is very un-crowded at 8 a.m. on a Thursday, even if it is in the weeks before Christmas.

I think I may forgo Christmas cards this year - I'm not feeling up to it. But I've been known to change my mind. I really love getting them, even those holiday newsletters that others find obnoxious. Of course people only write about the good stuff - what do you expect? A detailed treatise on the family's travails of the past year? Maybe the people who resent them are people who don't like to write or are not good writers. Or maybe it's envy. Or they are easily annoyed. Who knows ... I happen to love them. (And often write one of my own ... though I've made them shorter over the years - Gary's aunt writes one that is two full pages, and she could use a good editor; we don't really need to hear every detail of her bike riding trips ("... then on day two ...") I'm down to half a page, and I think it's long enough.)

In other excitement:

• Cleared some clothing out of my closet today. Prompting me to wonder whatever encouraged me to purchase these items in the first place.
• The closet is not noticeably emptier.
• I found my favorite peppermints at the grocery store yesterday - seemed worth noting.
• Have not figured out how to purchase replacement vacuum piece - my e-mails to the company have gone unanswered.
• Where is my check? For work finished weeks ago? I'm getting testy - those e-mails are also going unanswered.
• It's in the 70s again.
• My favorite TV shows are running out of new episodes. Give the writers what they want!

Must make the tennis lesson pick-up. Sigh. A mother's driving is never done.

Thoughts for the day (warning: extremely random)

When does wanting justice shift to revenge?

This crossed my mind as I read an article about a woman whose daughter was killed in a car accident and the driver of the car - who was intoxicated - left the country, returning to her native Peru, thus avoiding prosecution.

The driver was a college friend of the girl who was killed. A group of them had been out partying, and the driver was drunk. The accident killed one girl, paralyzed another. The penalty that was in plea bargaining negotiations was for manslaughter, which the mother wanted to reject.

I understand all of this - the mother's feelings, the outrage that this girl (now woman) is back in Peru and facing no consequences for her actions - she did kill someone (extradition did not cover her specific crime). But I also know her daughter was in the car and had also been drinking. Underage. Had she been the one behind the wheel, would the mother feel the same way?

I'm not suggesting people should get away with drunk driving - we need to educate our kids better, and penalties need to be stiff. But I'm just curious about the mother's motivation.

And while I'm at it, why is the death penalty seen as justice? Isn't it more about revenge? I am surprised at how many Christians I know are all for executing criminals, when the Bible I read seems to stress forgiveness ...

Further, I'm not blaming Mitt Romney for the ex-con who killed two people, just because he was furloughed (or released or paroled or whatever) by a judge who was appointed by Romney; I am not going to hold him personally responsible. If he were using his crystal ball then OK, he's to blame. My guess is we're all human and tragedies happen - if we could all act differently and make amends I'm sure we all would - who hasn't made a decision that in retrospect may not have been the best one? Yes, this one is more tragic, but as I said, I'm sure it was unintentional. Should someone pay? The criminal, sure. But how high do we want to go? Should we hold responsible all the voters who put Romney into office? His campaign manager?

Hillary (does she even need a last name?) is in town today. (It's Clinton, in case you're not sure.) I am not going. I kind of wanted to hear her speak, but I'm on the fence about her. I don't hate her, don't even mind her. But she isn't my No. 1 choice at the moment. And seeing/hearing her was going to require a hefty donation, and I'm not sure I'm prepare to shell out that sort of money for her. Yet.

I was, naturally, flattered to get a personal invitation. But I'm not so deluded that I think I'm really that special - please, anyone they thought might pay got one, I'm sure. But I can pretend, just for a moment, that they went to only an elite few.

And for my final thought: Thank GOD that Marie Osmond got booted off first last night. Dancing with the Stars - sorry. At first, I thought she was fun to watch. But she began to get on my nerves. I watched her on Larry King and she bugged the hell out of me - she is all about not taking any responsibility for what goes wrong in her life. The twice-divorced Ms. Osmond said, If only her parents could rear all the men in the world ... OK, I get it - you are divorced - twice - because the men are to blame. You are without fault. Nice. Spoiled brat, more like it.

And on DWTS, she could not accept criticism graciously - she would defy the judges, saying, I refuse to accept that. Excuse me? And as one blogger pointed out, I do not want to hear her say, I'm a doll designer! I'm nearly 50! or I have 50 kids! ever, ever again. Good riddance!

And even worse, people who watched that show live had to endure Celine Dion singing not once, but TWICE! Thank goodness for TiVo ...

Happy Wednesday, all!

Complaints

The cleaning woman broke my vacuum.

Of this I am absolutely sure. She was the last one to use it. Trust me - I didn't even to have ask the girls if one them didn't sneak in and use it without permission; I just know.

Naturally, I am annoyed. I called her, the owner of the company, to complain. Which I say I hate to do - I don't like to be a whiner, someone who's never satisfied.

But the fact is, I have complained about the cleaning woman before. I have complained several times. One week, she totally skipped the half bath. Another week, it was our bathroom. One week, all of the sinks looked dirty; yet another week, the floors did not look as if they had been mopped. The trash was taken out in half the house (I would prefer that she didn't take out any of the trash, but why, then, only half? When I had asked them to leave it be?). Underneath the desks was not vacuumed.

I sound really picky. But I also know the size of the check I write, and I think I should get what I'm paying for. She's a very nice woman, but she does not clean well. I can only be nice for so long before I get resentful.

Looks like I'm out whatever the price of a new vacuum piece is. It's big piece. They offered to pay for it, but still, it's a pain.

*****

An acquaintance of mine told a story in a blog. This is someone I've known for a long time (though I no longer see this person) and she told a story that I know, for a fact, is not true. It hearkens back to our youth; I was there, and she totally distorted what happened.

Why do I care? Good question - I suppose because it makes her out to be someone she isn't, someone much more important. And I know she is only being half truthful. I suppose it could be the way she remembers things, but I doubt it.

I have decided not to call her on it (and I doubt if she read this, which she doesn't, she would recognize herself - she is too self-important to read this, and I'm guess she believes her version of events). I am not one to leave mean comments - why bother? When people write things I dislike or find fault with, I am not inclined to comment - I so rarely leave positive feedback, why bother with snippy comments? I guess I prefer silent loathing.

But to clarify, the vacuum story? Totally true.

*****

I grew up with a friend who was a bully.

This came back to me as I read about a workshop held in the Houston schools to help girls identify with bullying. Girls who make unkind comments about their friends, belittling them, making them feel inferior, these girls are considered bullies. And one of my "friends" displayed this behavior.

There was a group of us - at one time four, then three - and the one who somehow considered herself the most *important* constantly made cutting remarks about the rest of us. I'm not sure why we tolerated it, but we did.

And they were mean remarks - insults about how we dressed, about our houses (which never lived up to hers - though I don't recall that her house was amazing), about our families. She called my brother names, made fun of what I wore. She made fun of another friend's parents, of their jobs, their pets. We did class reports in Spanish, talking about our parent's jobs, and when one guy said his dad was a mail carrier, she somehow found that funny. (I told my mom later, and my mom, who worked in personnel at the post office at the time, said she should watch it - that boy's dad probably made more than her dad did.) Another time I mentioned going shopping after Christmas when things would be cheaper and somehow she found this worthy of her disdain - the idea of having to save money was beneath her.

(This was a not wealthy family, just so you know - she was a middle-class kid, just like I was, who grew up in a modest three-bedroom ranch house. Nice parents.)

She moved away in junior high, and when I look back at how she behaved, why she treated us, her friends, that way, I am at a loss. Why would you want to make your friends feel badly about themselves? How did this make her feel better?

I saw her a few years ago, and I am happy to say she has changed, that she outgrew this destructive behavior. I keep an eye on my own girls, and I would not care to see them participate in this behavior. Girls needs to support their friends, not victimize them.

Such a waste of energy. And for what?

*****

Must go online to order new Missouri sweatshirts ... we'll be needing something to wear in New Orleans ...

We're No. 1?!?!?

Could be ... No. 4 (or 3) defeats No. 2 Kansas, leads the entire game. OK, so they had a few too many penalties, so they could have held Kansas back, not allowed so many long passes. But it doesn't matter - they won! And they could be No. 1 this week.

Missouri will play Oklahoma in San Antonio next weekend. We likely will not go, but it will be exciting, none the less. Go Tigers!!!

Hola! from San Antonio

San Antonio is touted in the guide books as a charming city, known for its mingling of Native American, Deep South, and Old Mexican cultures. The eighth largest city in the United States, it boasts the lovely downtown Riverwalk, museums, restaurants, and the history of 300-year-old missions.

Each of these features is a true delight. Each is undoubtedly much more enjoyable when it's warmer outside than 45 degrees. And not raining. But I'm not complaining - we are actually quite enjoying the cooler weather, a welcome break after so many months of really hot days.

None the less, we are loving it. Thanksgiving day was spent at home, where Gary, the girls and I cooked for our guests: turkey, stuffing w/prunes and apricots, sweet potato casserole, green beans w/bacon (I cringe from the recipe that calls for cream of mushroom soup and those fried onions - can't do it), Gulliver's corn, baked mashed potatoes, cranberry chutney, rolls, pumpkin ribbon bread, and pumpkin pie. None of it is low-fat; all of it is wonderful. Gave us a chance to use our seldom-used china in our rarely used dining room. We started the day with the neighborhood Turkey Trot two-mile walk/run and finished by playing lots of Mah Jongg and drinking. Can't think of any better way to spend the day.

All I'll dispense with listing the many things for which I am thankful - I know how fortunate I am.

Friday morning we left for San Antonio. (Can you believe I drove away from all those leftovers? We'll have plenty to eat when we return home ...) We have a lovely hotel on the Riverwalk, and everything is within walking distance. Yesterday we walked to the Alamo, past the historic Joske's department store, the Menger Hotel, La Villita, St. Joseph's Church, Hemisfair Park, and the Riverwalk. It was lovely. And it was cold - 45 and drizzly. We did dress properly, but wow - that wind can go right through you.

Dinner was at Hard Rock Cafe when we realized the kids had never been there, and we figured Alison would get a kick out of it - never mind that we have one in Houston. Man, there is a lot of pointless rock "memorabilia" out there.

Last night was the lighting of the holiday lights on the Riverwalk and the parade of barges down the river. We considered watching from the hotel balcony, but it was very windy out there, and we were up high enough that it was hard to see well. So we went to the Riverwalk right behind out hotel and were able to watch from there. It was great - the lighted barges all had music - some had live bands - so it was more of floating concert to the strains of Jimmy Buffett, Van Morrison, Freddy Fender, Los Lobos, and countless showtunes. Such fun - we thoroughly enjoyed it.

Today we drove out to see several of the missions on the outskirts of the city. We only toured one - you get the idea - but we did like the movie about the development of the missions and the way the indigenous populations were treated by the conquering Spaniards - interesting stuff. We went to lunch at the Liberty Saloon, a funny little place in a building that lists - noticeably - to the left. The food was great and the atmosphere fun, even if you did have to make sure your things didn't roll across the room (!) Their pies were fantastic.

The girls wanted to check out the Children's Museum, so we did, and I'm sorry to say that we have nearly outgrown such places. Came back to the hotel, went to Happy Hour and played Yahtzee - four Yahtzees, four dances (you have to do the Yahtzee dance, even in public), and Alison tested all of my and Gary's drinks - we are so proud of her knowledge of mixed drinks. It should serve her well should she continue her interest in drama and need to sideline as a waiter or bartender - !

We are now watching Kansas v. Missouri - we saw one of Gary's college friends on Game Day this morning who now works for ESPN. Truman the Tiger Webkinz is watching with us for luck ... I am really hoping I can e-mail my former colleague who went to KU, giddy with victory. It's a little too early to gloat - I'll just keep my fingers crossed.

Mizzou-rah!!

Little bits of nothing

Fall has come to Texas.

By fall I mean that temperatures are below 75, with the nights down in the 40s. It is really lovely. And I am just crazy enough that I actually wish it were colder.

I like warm weather - truly, I do. I love swimning, the beach, summer dresses with sandals. But I love warm weather when it's appropriate. And being one who grew up in the Midwest, with four distinct seasons, I want fall. And winter. When we moved here, I thought I would relish the warmer temperatures - I was thrilled to leave the cold and snow behind.

And now? I realize that I actually miss the change, that i do not want to wear sandals in November, capris in December. Chalk it up to lessons learned.

I had to smile the other day. It was mid-60s, and I saw a woman at Target wearing capris and flip flops, another wearing a turtleneck and boots. Another guy had on a parka - ! Gotta love the Texan reaction to the "cold."

The weekend has been somewhat less productive than I might have liked. Gary came home, so I once again have a co-parent (handy when Alison called at 3.15 am that she was home from Fort Worth and needed someone to pick her up at school). Maddie decided she wanted to see Psycho, and as it was the one weekend of the year when it was not on cable - naturally - we cashed in a video rental coupon in order to enjoy some classic Hitchcock, complete with a "Making of ..." documentary (I love those) and the theatrical trailer. It remains one of the scariest movies I have ever seen - even when I know what is coming. I love it.

Bought new black boots to replace the ones I bought several years ago that have officially worn out. I've been looking for years (I am very picky regarding heel height and style, and while I can always find the characteristics I seek, I am not always willing to pay the requested price). Last year, I found the perfect pair, but I opted to buy them in brown, as my brown boots were hurting my feet (they were clearly purchased before one of the girls was born). I didn't particularly want the same boots in two different colors, so I waited. Now, out of absolute necessity, I made the black purchase. And they are stunning.

By this point I would imagine you are regretting logging on to read this - who finds the minutiae of others' shoe shopping even remotely interesting?

But it gets better: We went to a party last night with great live music. But we had the two younger girls with us, and they were "too tired" by 10 pm. (read: bored) so we had to leave. Made a mental note next time to leave them at home.

Made my shopping list and to-do list for the week, in order to get ready for Thanksgiving here on Thursday. Not a huge crowd - just us and the grandparents - but I do enjoy hosting. I love to cook for this holiday - I have a fantastic set of recipes from a class Helen and I took. The best part? It can all be made ahead of time. So I'll be busy the next couple of days, cooking in advance to that Thursday morning is not a frenzied mess. I only make the pie on Thursday (and the turkey, of course) - everything else is done early.

But I will have to clean off the desk in the office - slash - guest room, which is piled high with my works-in-progress. A semblence of tidiness will be in order.

This, sadly, is my entire list of accomplishments for the weekend. There is much more I could have, should have, done. But I no longer beat myself up about these thngs. Life is short, and some days, it's OK to just take it easy, watch Missouri football on TV, watch a movie with the kids or play Yahtzee (all of which we did). We all enjoy life in different ways; sometimes, a little enjoyement is worth a lot.

Stress relief

Lots of ways to put off doing what I should be doing. Lots of ways to deal with stress.

Like blogging, for example. Or shopping. Which I did today - nothing like a stop at Ann Taylor to make me feel better. Plus a run through Dillard's. I need a dress for a Christmas party. So I looked, a bit, got some ideas. Found lots of separates, lots of spangly tops with sequins. But I'm not sure that's the look I'm going for. I browsed in Dillard's, found a stunning coat (that I would wear once a year), a couple maybes. Then I hit the part of the store where the sweaters have large cats on them ... I was done.

Who wears those? I mean, really?

I am already down one husband this week, and tomorrow I'll be minus a daughter, as Alison heads off to Fort Worth for the thespian convention. It will be strangely quiet around here.

Saturday night, we went to dinner, the entire family. I ordered a drink, and the waiter asked for ID. You are kidding, I said. No, he was completely serious. I complied, and he returned it, saying, You don't look that old.

Flattering, naturally. But I'm thinking that it's not so much a testament to my youthful glamour as it is a sign of his cluelessness. I mean really, what did he see? A couple with their three daughters? Or Gary with his three daughters and his teenage girlfriend?

Scary stuff. But it's always nice to know I can pass for my daughter's elder sister.

Youth Lust

Or: Yes, I watched The Osmonds on Oprah today - how about you?

I know, I know - I have a jillion things to do. But I could not resist weighing in. The Osmonds! And I was never a huge fan, even.

When I saw the promos, I knew I'd be tuning in - how could I pass up an hour of traveling back in time, watching Donny and Marie - and little Jimmy, too? Takes me right back to fourth grade - I have distinct memories of watching this show at a friend's house. Though my memories go back much further - I remember listening to Puppy Love on a 45 at my friend Debra's house in first or second grade, and I remember my friend Janet having a major crush on Donny (it must have been her post-David Cassidy phase).

Besides, who couldn't love those shots of the Osmond jumpsuits? The 70s. They were one happening decade.

And I have to give them credit - they seem like a nice family. You only get to see the public side, but still. And Donny has aged well - he looks better now, at 49 (!) than he did as a teenager. (And he wore a purple shirt -!)

But. I'm not really one to lust after my lost youth. First of all, it isn't lost just yet - I feel fairly young, and the parent of one of Alison's friends told me, at pick-up one night, that I looked like one of the students (flattery will get you everywhere, sir ...) And secondly, I live in the present. And for the most part, things today are pretty good. Or they could be worse, anyway.

None the less, it is always fun to revisit parts of my youth. It's a little surreal to watch it through the filter of time - and I have to gently remind my giggling children that they, too, will have this experience - all those clothing styles they love will, one day, look equally dated. Trust me.

I have equally fond feelings for most TV shows I watched all those years ago: That Girl. Batman. Partridge Family. Brady Bunch. What's Happening. Maybe because it's like watching your childhood - we weren't armed with round-the-clock video surveillance, so watching those shows is like taking a step back in time. Or perhaps because it takes me back to a simpler time - a time when life was easy, when my only worries were which friend to call, which game to play. No job, no bills, no real responsibilities.

I wouldn't trade places, mind you - no need to return to the days of track shorts and tube socks, feathered hair and shag carpet. But it's fun to take a peek.

This is the second time this week I've watched Oprah - probably the second time this year. I had to check out yesterday's show where she covered dressing for the ages. As with most makeover shows, those women looked fantastic with some fashion advice. I had to laugh with - not at - one woman, who was wearing clothes she had had for years. I laughed because I recognized every outfit they showed as something I would have worn in 1990. (And I confess, guiltily, a few of those items still hang in my closet ... unworn, but they're there ... ) One woman, who was in her 60s, looked amazing in her before shots - maybe the tops were a little low and the pants a little tight, but she could get away with it. I hope I look that amazing at 60.

But really, I'm OK with the age I am. It's great to be 29 ...

Surfin to Success

I could title this - yet again - something along the lines of Wow, I have so much to do, and so little time in which to do it.

But that doesn't exactly make me special - everyone is busy; everyone has stuff to do.

Yet it's no less true. I've added an additional project, and it is taking up much of my time. So when I'm done, I'll have more time to dink around. In the meantime, I'm busy with some ... stuff.

But before I sign off, let me leave you with this image:

Picture, if you will, an elementary school auditorium. It is designed for a maximum capacity of, say, 350 people. But there are 200 third-graders in the school ... you et the idea. Chairs are set up for about 350 people, and another 150 stand, lining the perimeter of the room. The 200 afore-mentioned third-graders take the stage, all outfitted in bright colors (my own third-grade participant had on a bright red dress and a brightly colored lei - a birthday party leftover favor). And we are entertained by the sound of the Beach Boys, but for the lyrics "Surfin USA" substitute instead, "Surfin to Success."

Ah, yes - butchered Beach Boys - as if they aren't unbearable enough in their original form?

And still, with all its campiness, the evening was charming. Botched music, too many people (they need to schedule one more than one performance), parents with cameras blocking the view - all those annoyances were canceled out by the delight on the face of my daughter. She was front and center - and we were there early enough to get good seats - with a huge smile on her face the entire time. She's been practicing the lyrics at home for weeks and was so proud to sing for us.

I won't be sitting through elementary school performances for too much longer - only two more years. There's plenty of time for me to be cynical. For now, I'll just relax and enjoy the childhood of my youngest daughter. Surfin' to Success, indeed - she is well on her way.