So the Holidays begin

So here was the beginning of the season for the B Pond family. This week started with a massive sore throat, went to the doctor and was tested positive for Strep throat. Always at this time of year, at least I had the turkey this time!

On Tuesday I decided this was the day to put up the tree. Moira, my new kitten decided to help. I turned to grab the top section of the tree (yes it is a Walmart special) when I saw that Moira had decided she wanted a part of building the tree by climbing up it. When I was done laughing, I followed my intelligent sister-in-law and ran for my camera. Can't wait to see what happens when the tree is decorated.

Well now the week is over and I can finally breath. Safely this time. Someone at work said it the best, when it rains it pours. But I would like to point out that Noah had a warning before. Where was mine? Let us review this week:

Monday was actually rather staid, just another school day. (Thus the shock of the remaining week)

Tuesday was went it started going down. Driving on Rt 78 I punched my car to merge with traffic with no results. With great effort I was able to go to work by travelling 55 with high RPMs. Now I know that I'm a girl and really am not educated in cars, but even I knew I lost my transmission. Let me point out I had just had done some major work on this car, I did not need this. After school I couldn't even go 25 mph. Called the Tow truck to take me to my mechanic.

I think Amy said it the best, this would be a good reason to live by family. She was my lifesaver and so was Harland just for helping so much

Wednesday was the debate day. Pay for transmission? or go in debt and buy a new car. Hero for the day goes to Dad, the advice and just talking to me, really helped me. Amy then drove me to pick up Mom and Dad's car that they so graciously lent me as my car is being fixed. Guess which choice I made?

Thursday got to school and went in to get a tag for the car, when I got back there was a parking ticket on the windshield. And the meter maid (who has a reputation already) just standing there. She also gave a cop a ticket on his personal car. Now I have a court day to fight this. UHGGGG!!!

Later that night I had Riding Lessons. One hour that I could just escape all this and enjoy. Until almost the end, my horse decided to play me. Instead of going straight, she threw her shoulder down and turned. During a canter (faster than you want to go when they trick you) I almost went over her shoulder. But I caught myself and saved myself. Until later when I looked down and saw one of nails folded back and bleeding.

Friday It looked like had gone through the worst and was happy that things were looking up. I spoke to soon. Apparently I forgot about the weekend. That night I was hanging a picture up and dropped the hammer. Not on me, but it bounce back and the prong punctured my leg. Thankfully not hospital visit.....

Saturday I had a Stake meeting, we had cans that we were using for something, drying one....yep cut myself. And good. Might have go get that Tetanus shot after all. I think the Searle curse or some moon phase or something was going on.

After all this, here is expectation of next week, I meet the man of my dreams and he is hot and rich! And before I forget, this all happened during grade week when all grades for 3rd MP are to be in. Already stressful then add all this.

Thank you for all your prayers and your endless help. I needed them and still do, I'm scared to think what would happen if I didn't.

Evidence of my madness.

This time it was ME!!

So after months of planning, conniving, and scheming I have finally done it. The moment we have all been waiting for....I cooked my Boeuf Bourguignon!! Julia Child's style.

Now before anyone begins to be threatened by me, stop. No need to be. This might not happen again in the near future. This was not an easy recipe and had many hiccups to boot. For one, who knew a non-drinker of wine would have such a problem picking up one bottle. The store that I frequent had a massive wine sale, so one would think this would be easy. NO! Apparently no drinks Bordeaux in New Jersey. What is that about? So after many turns and even visiting the wine cellar, I found a Cotes de Rhone red. I was ready to go.

Saturday was a stay at home day, which is why this happened. (I'm not kidding, I think I was in the kitchen for over four hours!) But I did it, and now having bragging rights to a beef stew that was was simply put; WOW! Served with potatoes and peas...as seen...we had a meal of the gods. Or at least how the French think. Or is it they think they are the gods? anyway, it was great! I am learning in the kitchen and seeing that food is my friend and not something to be afraid of.

And just to make this clear, no I am not going to place this on the menu for Christmas '10. Dream on, I want to see Florida not the kitchen! (remember four hours?) So thank you for your interest and your support! But Julie has got nothing on me!!!

B

Only for thoses that are still wondering...

So this is just for those that understand that my birthday is coming up and still have no idea what to do.

Now I know that this is just sad, at my age, still with expectation of gifts. But that's me! I refuse to grow up and give up my presents. (Remember that come Christmas)

In that past I have been surprised of what people have given me and how many gifts have become priceless to me. But if people are like me, where you think and think, and come up with nothing. I thought I could help.



Wish list of Belle's:

Deanna Durbin Collection DVD

Yoga for the Wii

Linda Eder Soundtrack ( I know this is just too ironic not to ask for)

Star Trek (2009)

The Pleasure of Cooking for One (Please no jokes....I'm still coming to terms)

...or you can visit my favorite website at www.amazon.com and view my wish list.

Now before you think that I have gone crazy or least my ego has hit a new high, just understand this. This was written for those that have no idea and want to know what I have been looking at for the past year. Not a list of expectations.

Thank you for you time, understanding and sheer patience with my neurosis

Julie/Julia...and Me

So I know no one will read this blog, just for the reason that I don't seem to be that person that keeps a blog. But I must share this. This weekend I saw the new movie Julie and Julia, which was interesting to me due to the fact that I had just returned from DC and had visited the Julia Child's exhibit. (Disclosure: unlike the real Belle...not really going to talk about the movie.) At the same time I am also reading Julia Child's autobiography. Although I can't really agree with the same passion for French food that Julia had, I must admit that I have been aspired to be more. Everybody that knows me, knows that I am not a chef by any one's imagination (unlike my brother) but I do have my moments.

So for tonight I was looking in the fridge for a hidden dinner that I could have...with very little choices. I do need to go grocery shopping. But I did have the basics, EGGS. So very Julia, I decided to cook myself a french omelet with zuccinni on top. The results: A delicious, fluffy omelet that was heaven to eat. The secret? I followed Julia's instruction in making it.

This is a moment that I am proud of myself. The saddest part? This blog is the only way I could share this moment. So thank you for your moment in time.

Just a note

Please forgive the lack of insights of my life. But for those who are waiting for excitement and weekly updates, I'm sorry to say that is just not me.

So here is something for you, a note to say yes, I'm still alive, and no I have not forgotton about my blog obligations.

And to those of you that have complained---there is the phone. And now Skype. This has been tested and found wonderful. Make an appointment and boom! There is communication.

All those out there I feel affection for and am proud to call family, HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!!!

Enjoy this moment and know that you are loved.

Blue