Lori's Favorite Posts...

Photos for Saba & Savta...

2008-03-12T08:02:00.001+02:00

An ode to Mike...

2007-07-06T08:03:00.000+03:00

In life it is of utmost importance to remember the savor the experiences and enjoy the beauty surrounding you. Don't let opportunities slip through your fingers and don't squander your time. Time is not refundable and you should therefore spend it doing things that improve the world and improve yourself. Why waste it when it means precious seconds and moments?! Also, I think that the most wonderful things in life are full of happiness and joy and the trick is their ability to radiate these two emotions and make others feel the same. Bring light to those around you, spread happinesss and smiles - just remember, lots and lots of smiles.I'm a doting aunt - so I hereby present my 'littlest' nephew for your viewing pleasure! He is absolutely deeeeelicious and I could totally eat him up! I'm so excited to work with him for a while - even if he does take up all his mom's attention... ;o)
Have an incredible Shabbos!!!

Chipples!!!

2007-06-28T23:19:00.000+03:00

Today was day 2 of my birthday trip. Shosh and I headed out to Ashdod to spend some time on the beach. The sun was bright and the sand was warm, ok, so the sand was HOT - but the ocean was beautiful and we really enjoyed!

41 minutes till my English Birthday... :o)

“There is still no cure for the common birthday.” ~John Glenn

2007-06-25T23:49:00.000+03:00

Work was extremely boring today. The 'son-boss' went away to the USA (to buy me crayons for my birthday and for some conferences of sorts) so there isn't really anyone in the office to mock. I volunteered to run an errand becuase I needed to get out. Everyone thinks I'm crazy but frankly, I don't care. It got me some summer air and time in the sun and I certainly wasn't going to complain. The air in The City today smelled like I remember it smelling when we used to come to Israel on vacation.

Back at work someone asked me to make a cup of tea for them. This got me thinking about making tea. So I googled 'the art of tea-brewing' and came up with any number of fascinating articles on the topic. One of the funniest ones can be found here.

The part I really laughed outloud at was:

Don't add sugar. Sugar is unnecessary, unhealthy and masks the delicious flavour of tea. If you want a sweet drink have hot chocolate. You wouldn't add sugar to beer would you? If someone asks for sugar in their tea laugh at them scournfully and then slap them once very hard. Unless of course she's your girlfriend because that probably wont do much to underpin the relationship.

After work I got lost in Ramot and then I headed over to Amalia's wedding! It was very very leibedik and quite the reunion.

After the last dance we headed back to The Ranch. It's late-ish, but I had a relatively enjoyable day. Tomorrow night - sheva brachot!

Quote of the day: "Youth had been a habit of hers for so long that she could not part with it." ~Rudyard Kipling

Cheese Toasts with Tomato...

2007-06-18T11:58:00.000+03:00

So, I left work early and headed Home to catch a ride out to Vivi & Gabi's Wedding. It was in a really nice garden-y type place. Very pretty and scenic and green. I got a few pics that really sum up the event (And I promised Vivi I'd blog 'em - so here you go...)

"He's coming! He's coming!!!" (Would you look at that smile?!) I get teary eyed when I see that look of absolute adoration. I just have to say, "awwwwww!!!"
Chuppah!!!
Bride Envy anybody? (Check the bridal bouquet...)
The Man in the Moon was fishing...
Daddy and Mr. Lutsky enjoyed some dessert.

Daddy enjoyed a little more dessert than Mr. Lutsky...
Freddie grabbed a seat with a niiiiice view... ;o)
Eitan and Poppa Zwebner kept themselves entertained...

Yay for bubbles!!!

We gave Matan and Elad a ride back to B.S. and the conversation in the car was amusing and slightly disturbing.
Ok, so it's a terrible picture of me - but I wanted a shot of my cute dress! Please ignore me and note the dress! Thanks! :o)

Anywho - tomorrow I have work and then have to rush back to B.S. (again) for a dentist appointment. Oh goody. I'm soooo excited... :oP

Supplements, Vacation Days & Havoc...

2007-06-03T21:36:00.000+03:00

Wake up was at 6:00 and I was on an 8:20 bus to The City. Stopped at The Ranch for breakfast with the Roomie and then was off to work by 10:30. Loooong day at the office and the last day without my Big Sis!!!!Freddie came by about 1/2 an hour before it was time to go to keep me company. We shpatzired down to the other side of town and sat in the sunshine for a while.
Eventually Dum arrived and the 3 of us went out for a last dinner together before Dum leaves The Holy Land.

Freddie and Dum were heading to Bet Shemesh for a blood drive and on our way down to the bus stop we bumped into a neighbor who was waiting for her ride. She said there was room in the car so the girls went with her and I headed back to The Ranch.

We were fresh out of chocolate so I ate an ice pop.

What an interesting day.
I hope this week flies by.
I want it to be Thursday already...

Princesses, Parties and Pink Frilly Dresses...

2007-06-01T15:22:00.000+03:00

Happy Birthday Princess!!!

Mommy's most recent catering shindig - went off without a hitch and as always it was extremely well accepted, attended and much enjoyed...

Have a great Shabbos!!!!

Glutton For Punishment...

2007-05-31T23:59:00.000+03:00

Work was a bit sad today as it was Yael's last day. TJ and I slipped out to find some lunch and I ate 3 slices of pizza. On my way Home I had some ice-cream with Shosh and then at Home I shared a plate of noodles &ketchup with The Dibble and drank a Shoko B'sakit.

Mommy is catering another shindig this week. This one is in honor of the Clark's littlest one's 1st Birthday. The only guidelines provided were, "As girly and frilly as possible..."
I like Pink!!! I love Pink!!! Yay for PINK!!!
Fringe and Frizzie help set the tables...
The adorable centerpieces! I think they are picnic-perfect and they make me think of spring!
A few of the tables all set...

Then Freddie drove us Home.

More tomorrow... :o)

"Cocktail Tires..."

2007-05-28T22:23:00.000+03:00

For the last 3 weeks a team of us at the office have been organizing a press conference for the Grand Opening of the Mamilla Alrov Quarter Project. If you have been in Jerusalem in the last four years, near Jaffa Gate, you will have noticed the construction and reconstruction project going on behind the barriers.At 4ish we headed over to the David Citadel Hotel for the Press Conference. Up in the executive lounge we set everything up and waited for the reporters to show up.

Eventually things got underway. The general manager and the assistant managers of the David Citadel Hotel and the new Akirov Hotel were both present along with the Director of Sales and PR for the hotel and luxury apartments. After the conference we made our way over to the new shopping promenade...
The place is beautiful. Ritzy and an all around beautiful reconstruction project. Lots of new stores and chic little coffee shops.
We collected the brochures as we passed by...
Some music to set the mood...
On the new walkway...

A shot of the crowd before the sun went down...
My hair does look kind of cute in the clip... (what do you think of my fancy outfit?)
Freddie was across the way. We shmoozed for a bit and waved. She declined the offer of tossing some food across the road...
FOR TJ - The Doggy Bag. Evidently not everybody felt the same way about 'taking some for later'...
Pareve Iced Coffee that actually tasted really really really good!!!

Me and TJ!!! What is so funny about this picture is that we're both zonked. Totally and utterly.
The sun went down and the atmosphere of the party went up a few notches...
We eventually got tired of the crowds in the party, so we headed over to the VIP section. (They had more comfortable couches in there...)
Tamir this last picture is for you. I saw the fireworks and remembered that conversation we had on Yom Ha'atzmaut. I do love them. The colors, the brilliance and the beauty. But they always make me think of life in general...

...They burst onto the scene, shed their light, make their impression and then they are gone leaving only a smoky haze behind. May we merit to make a more permanent mark on this world than they, and may it be for the good.

16 Pokes Sent...

2007-05-22T08:23:00.000+03:00

Chag is on its way!
So exciting!

Blintzes, ice cream, fettucine alfredo, cheesecake, and milkshakes!!!

Yummmmmmmm!!!!
Gotta get ready...

Hugs & Butterfly Kisses...

2007-05-20T21:43:00.000+03:00

I woke up to a voice screaming, "Smooshy! Smooshy! Smooshy come back inside!!!" I shlepped myself out of bed and got ready to head back to The City. I was running early so I stopped at The Ranch to drop off my stuff, then I headed to work. The office was quiet and boring. To make myself feel useful I actually filed all of the newspapers. I spent most of the rest of the day reading.

After work I met up with Freddie and Netanella (one of her coworkers) and we picked up salad, which we ate in the park. Freddie got a new 'shirt' thingy, it's funky and (like most other things) looks really cute on her. After our salads we shpatzired up to the Kotel. I had heard through the grapevine that a friend of a friend was having his 'swearing in' ceremony. It was in the neighborhood so we decided to stop by.
All the chayalim marched out and it was a grand sight. Finally, 20 minutes later Tonny made his way to the group of people waiting to greet him!Eventually I made my way back to the other side of town and I stopped to take a quick picture of the bridge. They put up pretty lights and it looks oh so fancy.

Tomorrow is already erev-erev-chag so I'll be heading Home again. Shavuot is almost here! I'm so excited!!!

Hitched????

2007-05-17T23:43:00.000+03:00

Shavuot is on the way and so our shul held another 'Womens Evening' - tonight we learned about flower arranging. Quite apropos if you ask me. Of course, there was cheesecake - but it went fast and then it was on to the flowers...

Funniest quote of the night: "Oh, why couldn't I have been born artistic instead of beautiful?"

Shabbos is coming! Somebody even said they will try to come over and read to me! I'm so excited! :o)

Ooooooooooooooooooooof...

2007-05-15T23:59:00.000+03:00

I went Home last night. We made waffles, watched the twinkling lights and ate salad. It was a nice spontaneous sort of decision. I should make more of those. They are fun.

My plans for the future currently extend only until December - sort of.
I assume after that I will go back to my awfully boring working routine and that will be that.
Have I mentioned I am never going to manage to get myself fired?
How ironically depressing...

Now you can blog in Hindi...

2007-05-09T23:59:00.000+03:00

TJ and I went out for lunch today. It was loads and loads of fun! Bagels and coffee and a nice walk in the sunshine, though we didn't manage to pick up a fishie.

Brenda came to my office after school. We changed our 'going out to eat plans' and wound up at the arts-n-crafts store instead.

Back at The Ranch, we got Pookie and Harry comfortable with some snacks and started our evening activity...

We set everything up and then we began. First dab... First coat a work in progress...
Moving right along to the insides...
After bottles of farting paint, splatter-painting both myself and my clothes, painting Shosh's leg orange, a contorted flower or three, the wrong color purples, a few squashed ants and a HUGE tray of fries we were done! Winner of the cutest box award goes to Brenda. Her work of art, 'ants on a watermelon' won hands down.
The finished products! This was fun! We should definitely do it again sometime soon! :o)

Tomorrow is already the last day of the week. I'm totally ready for Shabbos! How bout you?

Dr. Bernardo You're Getting Pudgy...

2007-05-06T22:55:00.000+03:00

The morning after Lag Ba'Omer, the sky is always overcast and hazy while the lingering smell of bonfires hangs heavy in the air. This year, the weather is HOT and sticky on the morning after the pyromaniacs fantasy-night. I made my way into Jerusalem for a regular Sunday of work. As usual, I was running late so Toffee came with me to the office. He was the official guarder of the telephone, eater of the cookies and protector of the coffee... Work was boring and I was sent Home early as a 'treat' - because there was nothing going on. I made my way back to The Ranch and spent a few hours amusing myself until Freddie called me and asked me to join her on an outing.
First stop Angels Factory. They are open 24 hours a day, which is quite handy to have around the corner, I must say!
Next stop - fooooooood!!!
Quite a party going on and the dudes were nice. We gave the nice lady sauce tips and made friends with the sketchy old man who wanted to know if Cookie was hungry...(Duh?!)
Then we shmoozed on a corner till we decided it was time to call it a night.

Which it decidedly is.

Good Night!

"So you're needle boy..."

2007-05-05T23:59:00.000+03:00

Shabbos was extremely enjoyable. I actually made it to shul and our guests were extremely entertaining! The meals were fun and Little Brother brought me my twizzlers!!! (Thanks for reminding him to get them for me Aunt Faye!)After Havdala we headed over to the ampi for some Lag Ba'omer fun and festivities! The fires were HUGE and there were plenty of marshmellows to go around. Somebody actually brought a kitchen chair and I was bemused when they picked it up and put the whole thing into the flames.How many marshmellows can you fit in your mouth? This little champ got in 3! :o)Sariel and Gabi provided some musical accompaniment until they left for the 'usual spot' - At that point the 'adults' took over.The pile to burn.We had all night ahead of us...Sammy and Little Brother went to visit the BIG fire in the new ampi but ours was more fun, so they came back! :o)Heehee, I convinced my chayal to come down to our side of town too!

Whose shoes are whose??? :oP
Good times. Good times.

But the best part was when I got Home.

Darn those comfy chairs... ;o)

All For אפס...

2007-04-29T15:45:00.000+03:00

Well, I lucked out when the bosses told me that the office would be closed today so that they could paint. I decided to do some of the random things that have been on my todo list but I never have the chance to do.

Daddy agreed to accompany me on this crazy ride so off we went.
We started here... And were trying to get here:
We eventually found the sign, pulled up to the gate, backed up to pull up to the other gate, created a traffic jam, pulled up to the first gate again and...
Finally, we were in...

Scary looking place, huh? I was a little too intimidated to take pictures inside - but the outside gives you a good enough idea. Well, I think so...
We waited on line behind many people who were all waiting to have their finicky microwaves looked at. The man said that we were very nice people and that we would therefore be helped quickly. "10 minutes," he said. We handed over the microwave and went to sit in the hall. As we found a bench and sat down a man come out and motioned for us to follow him. The 10 minutes had been a matter of seconds PLUS we got a really nice box!!!
We got on the road again. Daddy behind the wheel and headed towards Home. Strangely enough, our exit missed us.
Somehow we were heading this-a-way and there was nowhere to turn around...
Powernap, I figured. We'd find the next exit, turn around and head Home. Oddly enough, our next exit missed us too.

As we headed south we saw the sights and discussed missiles.
Eventually we concocted the correct mathematical equation that would bring us Home. (All driving in Israel is one big math problem. If you have a head for numbers you can get from anywhere to anywhere.)
We detoured onto Rt 383. The 'deserted' highway. Nobody travels it nowadays. Well, almost nobody. Except for us, and the BIG trucks...
After a few kilometers Daddy pulled over to the side and offered me a turn. He said I could use the practice driving on the highway. I know he just wanted a chance to look out for silos containing missiles and doomsday machines...
Back safely in Bet Shemesh, we agreed that after that ride we needed 2 things:

1. To bench a 'גומל'

and

2. some felafel...

Freddie is coming Home and we will make our way back to The City a little later tonight. Then the week will begin. I wonder how the rest of the days will go. Next Shabbos should be really great - my two favoritest chayalim will be Home AND it's Lag B'aomer!!!

Happy thoughts! Happy thoughts!

Cumin & Cottage Cheese...

2007-04-27T11:06:00.000+03:00

I woke up to a beautiful warm sunny morning in Bet Shemesh. Birds chirping, warm breeze, blazing sun - everything that makes a day great. My first stop, as always was out to the mirpeset to visit the garden. It is one of my favorite places. Of course, my trusty dusty camera came with me.
If you will permit me I will give you a quick tour of our garden at this stage. Above are our apples, they are growing quite nicely and amazingly enough are not buggy! Below we have our basil, which is doing really well. By the way, if you are ever at my house and we offer you pesto - the basil was grown on the roof...

One of the planters has a curtain of pretty flowers growing down off of it. I couldn't resist taking the picture.

I was perturbed to notice that although the plum tree blossomed beautifully a few months ago, no fruit seemed forthcoming. Upon closer inspection I found some plums growing high up on a branch. With a bit more searching I located a whole bunch or buds that will hopefully be plums in a few months. Our roses have been in bloom and smelling incredible for the last few weeks. They are on their last legs, but most of them are still quite magnificent.
Below is a picture of our MINT planter. Yep, you guessed it, if we offer you 'mint tea' in any way, shape or form chances are pretty good that the mint was collected from up here...

Sage has the funniest of leaves. It is so soft and fuzzy. You're welcome to come over and pet our cats, sage leaves and Dibble - all free of charge.
Like the purple flowers above, the pink flowers below were just to pretty not to photograph. Sadly my photography skills are not advanced enough for me to get the correct angles - what really caught my eye was the water droplets sparkling on the leaves. I'd like to look that pretty sometimes! :o)

How Middle-Eastern ARE we? We even have zataar growing up here! Yep, you know that really good, zataar chicken that my mother makes - well, you know what I'm going to say...
We had a slight disagreement about the plant pictured below. We thought it was lavender but Mommy said it had no smell. Turns out, after bruising the leaves that it most certainly IS lavender. We repotted it because it was taking over the small planter. I then cut back the flowers, which are now hanging to dry.

I can't help the fact that I love living here!!! Imagine waking up every morning with this view right outside your bedroom window, walking distance from your house!! I am still in awe of this place. The beauty and the vivid colors call to me every time I look out my window.
Anywho -

Shabbos is coming and I think I need to go do some helping downstairs.

Have a great one!!!

Happy 59th Israel!!!

2007-04-24T23:02:00.000+03:00

Well, my morning started off about 2 hours earlier than I would have liked with a phone call about pigeons. Breakfast was a birthday bash of Waffles Supreme in honor of Brother Eli's birthday.
Eventually, only 20 minutes late, we got everybody out of the house and on their way to the car.
I love the fact that driving a couple of miles out of the cty or town in which you find youself you are still 'in your backyard'
We went to the red and white trail of Nahal Dolev. The bat caves have been closed since last year but the hike itself is REALLY enjoyable!
Ths is a rock. It was a cool rock. THAT is why there is a picture of it.
A the 'halfway point' we stopped for a break and to eat some pretzels, crackers and carrots.
This is the 'slide' - the mountain is worn sooo smoothly that it is like sliding down glass...
So after 3 hours or so of hiking, we headed Home and Dinner preparations got underway. The traditional BBQ was lit and Saba & Savta came too.

This was our Sunday for the year. The only thing that really confuses me is having a 'Sunday' on a 'Tuesday' - when I wake up in the morning I will be unsure of what day of the week we are actually up to.

Speaking of waking up - I guess I need to be asleep at some point before I 'get up' in the morning.

Tomorrow is back to usual routine.

I want another Sunday... :o)

Radioactive Spaghetti...

2007-04-23T23:59:00.000+03:00

This morning was a regular one though I was running a bit late. Work was same old and I got no filing done because as usual, the boss decided that I should pretend to be HIS secretary again. My Big Sis saved me from the monotony of the office and we walked and shmoozed and picked out nail-polish. I left the office 2 and a bit hours early after much pleading and kvetching.
I was Home just in time to cut up cucumbers for the Israeli Salad and fry the falafel balls. Once again, we had an 'Israeli Food Night' at Home in honor of Yom Haatzmaut. After dinner Daddy went out to the Tfilah Chagigit at the shul where he picke dup Shalom. When they got Home we went 2 doors down to join our neighbors at their yearly shmoozamajig.
For some reason or another, Pringles reigned supreme. Especially the BBQ ones. I 'helped' tend to the fire and watched a number of promising arsonists practice their sadistic arts on helpless marshmellows, rugelach and Bamba.
There were 2 rounds of fireworks. They were quite captivating as far as pyrotechnics go however, I must admit - one certainly CAN have too much of a good thing. Seeing them in the sky over the city quite frequently has taken its toll. I can tell.

I helped straighten up after the 'party' and then headed Home trying to figure out where the night had gone. We then drove Shalom back to his Yeshiva and took the 'Dirt Road' from the Moshav back into the city proper...

Quite an adventure. Quite an adventure.

More tomorrow! Have a good one!

Define: Plunger...

2007-04-17T23:22:00.000+03:00

They are building a bridge across the entrance to the city for the train. I am excited for the train, it will make it easier to get to the beach, a little more quickly and comfortably.
In honor of Yom Haatzmaut (which is coming up sooooooon) The City is getting ALL dressed up. Please note the polka-spots in the pictures below. There is a crazy sand-storm going on and just walking outside (in the strangely warmish weather) is freaky and makes you feel all grimy.
It is Rosh Chodesh Iyar, so Shosh and I went out for our monthly dinner. We were going to get bagels, but by the time we got there the bagel store was closed, so we wound up at Cafe Rimon instead. (I feel like I spend too much time there lately...) They have a special deal that on Rosh Chodesh if you buy a main dish and a drink then you get dessert for free. Free dessert? Let's do it!!! They also give all the ladies roses. (Finally I got a flower from somebody! SHEESH!)

On the way back to The Ranch, my phone took a leap of faith and missed, slightly...
Shosh was HIGHLY amused by this as can be seen below. (Or maybe she was checking for strep...?)
I sat on a wall and put my phone back together. When I powered it on, it worked. I was happy.
Aren't we just the cutest? Doesn't Shosh just have the prettiest eyes EVER!?
The Car That Wondered: This is a picture of an obnoxious car. Actually, the driver was obnoxious and the car was quite nice. But he 'honked' because I was 'in his way' when in effect he was driving in my road... :oP

I thought the makolet closed early. Turns out that they've been closed for renovations for the last week and a half. Guess that shows how much I know...
This is the ramp near the makolet. It takes almost as long to run down the ramp as it does to climb up the stairs next to it...
The elevator in our building is broken again. It is stuck (as can be seen below) on the fifth floor this time. Ergo, we were forced to walk up the stairs. Evidently we made it to the 5th floor because I took this picture. Luckily we eentually made it to the 6th floor (or you wouldn't be seeing these pictures...)
Our pretty blood red roses...
Ok, so now it is late and I agreed to go into the office early tomorrow on the condition that I will leave early on Thursday. My boss gave an A-OK on that plan and I figure it is worth it. :o)

One day closer to Shabbos!

Chodesh Tov everybody!!

It Was Nice Seeing You Bob - I'm glad you found your happy face today...

2007-04-14T23:40:00.000+03:00

Shabbos was really nice. I made the YUMMIEST oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.

Friday night was nice. I walked with Shani and we wandered our usual shpatzir through Nofei Aviv and Sheinfeld. Then we watched Molly get wheeled down the hill on a computer chair.

Shabbos morning I actually made it to shul. Freddie made me wild and lunch was an amusing affair. I got to rest in the green green grss and the I spent the rest of the afternoon getting beaten at almost every game I played.

After Shabbos we stopped off at Saba & Savta's house to pick up the rug for The Ranch. Then Daddy drove us up to Jerusalem. Freddie and Daddy shlepped the rug up 6 flights of stairs and then relaxed with some seltzer.

All in all the rug looks WONDERFUL! The whole living room seems warmer and more inviting. THANK YOU SABA & SAVTA!!!

Tomorrow it's back to routine.

I'll try to make it through the week with a smile..

Let's see how long that lasts...

Just Who's Brother is Bob?!

2007-04-08T12:33:00.000+03:00

Erev Chag, again. Pesach is really almost at an end. Oooof, I'll savor the last day - but it's still bittersweet.

This morning we went to help feed the fish at Saba & Savta's house.
Toffee loves to take time to smell the flowers and enjoy the world around him. He knows what is really important in life and I think he's just about the smartest bear I've ever met.
I LOVE the roses in their garden. Always the absolute prettiest!!! I think this is probably one of my favorite color combinations ever - it says 'summer' to me.
I am so excited that spring is here. I love the flowers and the warm weather.

Toffee through the newpaper tube...
The dashboard puppies...
"We're havin a heat wave..."
'Somebody' is trying to cool down - or find something to eat...

Dinner is going to be chalavi. I'm so excited! That means ice cream for dessert!!!
I'm NOT the only computer obsessed one in my family. Below is Eli in his natural habitat.
Not to be outdone, my father uses 2 computers at once...
Random picture that doesn't really have any connection - but I was in the basement so I figured I should post a picture of the 2nd most comfortable couch in our house. The nice part about this couch is that it actually offers some support so when you wake up your back doesn't hurt as much as it does when you fall asleep on the couch in the living room...
Anywho - I've gotta go help get ready.

Like I said, chag is coming...

Enjoy it everybody!!!

A Bug Flew Up Her Nose...

2007-04-06T16:28:00.000+03:00

Finally our annual Chol Hamoed Pesach trip to my favoritest place - the beach!!! We decided to go to Ashdod. It has been voted family favorite.
Sadly, when we got there the sun went behind the clouds and the water was very cold but we still had lots and lots of fun.

Brenda and I like our feet. Check out the pretty polish! :o)
Ezri is trying to hold back the sea and save the pile of sand...

The Dibble wants to be a sandmonster - he can be seen below coating himself in a layer of sand.
Daddy tries ever so hard to fold up his newspaper. I already have the other section which blew my way...
While I was sleeping someone put seashells on my tummy. What a silly place for seashells.
Look at that happy child!!!
All in all a very entertaining and wonderful day.

Shabbos is coming...

Have a good one!

Sleep & Embrace...

2007-04-05T22:44:00.000+03:00

I was the 2nd one in my family awake today. My alarm went off at 7 because I had to go to work. Mind you, only me and Tzi were stupidly forced to go in a do diddly-(un)important-squat today, but that is not the point.

After work I caught a bus Home. The bus smelled strongly like, well, imagine being shoved into a bottle of fabric softener that had been sitting in the July sun for a few days. Finally back at Home we packed into the car and headed over to Maaleh Hachamisha to visit Saba & Savta who are staying at the kibbutz's hotel.

The views are breathtaking:
The jacuuzi looked reeeeally nice, wish I coulda gone for a swim.
I call this picture art. It's a man on a couch from a bird's eye view and his reflection too.
We got to visit Savta and Saba's room to check out the accommodations.

I love my Dibble!!!!
The drive to Har Adar is through Abu Gosh - which Daddy drove through sooo fast this was the best picture I coud get...
At Home once again we decided to have that long awaited BBQ in our makeshift Pesach 'grill' - I can almost take credit for this one. :)
One match and Bobs your uncle. One Mommy and the food is deeeeelish!

The Dibble was probably asking something along the lines of, "But WHY can't I..."
I LOVE living in a sort of tropical paradise! Come on!!! THIS is my rooooftop garden!!!
Freddie made a caterpillar and promptly ate it one segment at a time.
Now it is time to get some rest. Tomorrow's schedule is going to be quite hectic. The planned itinerary says something about the beach. Guess we'll see how it goes.Am I wrong when I say that it is odd that people love me cause I'm cute and have a teddy? I mean, my teddy is cute - but I just think it's odd. Not that odd is a bad thing...

Pesach 2007...

2007-04-04T23:59:00.000+03:00

Our first (and my ONLY free day) of chol hamoed dawned bright and clear. I had hoped to go out on some fun tiyul or another but between Sammy working and Daddy's conference call - not to mention the fact that nobody woke up until after 11, things didn't look too bright.

Instead I invited Shosh and we went out on a shopping spree at the grocery store.
I love this country. They sell all of the chametz at the grocery store, but instead of moving all the Pesach stuff to a seperate aisle, they do the following:
Shani, this one is for you - it's the GREEN Fairy! Often reported to be seen after drinking certain alcoholic beverages... ;)

I LOVE the advertising here or maybe it is just the lack of English... I've heard of piled clothes and piled garbage but never this:
After the store we stopped off at the playground at BIG on our quest for a mini-grill and then we went to the park in Migdal Hamayim.

Back at Home there wasn't much going on. We made a many vegetable dinner and then I walked Shosh out to catch a bus.

Last stop of the night was a LATE viewing of "Phantom of the Opera" - I would've started earlier but some people just can't get their acts together... :oP

"That's my foot..."

2007-04-01T23:59:00.000+03:00

In the last few years our minhag has become to try and do as much cleaning and preparing as we can as early as possible so that the night before chag begins we can pile into the car and drive up to Jerusalem. We usually leave the house some time between the hours of 10 PM and midnight. This time around was no different. We departed at around 10:45 and were in Jerusalem in seemingly 'no time'
After a '10 minute' Maariv at the Kotel, we decided that we were hungry. Daddy decided to humor us and after driving around in a few circles we found a parking spot 1/2 a block from town.

We all decided to choose partners and share. Because 'sharing is caring' especially when EVERYONE is hungry! :)
Of course, at 2 in the morning The Dibble INSISTED that he NEEDED an iced coffee.We're still not sure how the ramifications of this one will play out...
The nice waitress even agreed to take a picture of us. I reckon we amused her quite a bit - though we DID try to be on our best behavior...
As we walked back to the car after eating our fill of Chametz, we took a quick stop at the giant checkerboard to play a game of 'King Me' and 'Queen Me' -

Alas, the hour was growing late and with only 4 hours till Shacharit we knew we had to head Home
So we piled into the car...
All of us. Even Pookie.
About 40 minutes later we were Home Sweet Home.
Now I reckon would be a gooooood time to get some sleep. On the bright side, we will probably sleep late which will be nice because tomorrow night is the Seder and we will need to be up very late again.

There is some brilliant project in the works to get all of the families on our street out of their houses and up on the porches on their roof-tops at 1:00 am to sing Hallel together.

It should be fun! :)

"Save a tree. Eat a beaver."

2007-03-29T21:55:00.000+02:00

For anyone who has come to visit me at work - do you remember the dinosaur of a screen I had? It took up the WHOLE desk... Well, today I got upgraded to a very pretty and space efficient 19" flat-screen!!!
I went into the office an hour early and left 25 minutes late. How does that work? Well, ask TJ or me or anyone else who isn't family and they will tell you that our employers have this really bad habit of only remembering that there is work to be done in the last 15 minutes before you leave.

I still made the 5:40 bus - but just barely. I should've stopped off for dinner somewhere. The note on the picture below should clarify why...

When the fridge at The Ranch looks like this I'm not usually too worried however, when our fridge at Home is this desolate - well, I start to get nervous... (Note the beer. Hehe, Shabbos party anybody?)
Crembos have a decidedly oniony/garlicy aftertaste. Odd, no? Toffee got a new purse - strange teddy. Tomorrow he needs to go into the wash while we switch over our kitchen...
All in all this week got progressively better. Today was quite mediocre - not that there is anything wrong with mediocrity, it's just - I like to have spice and flavor and this boring tinged with 'yuck' isn't any fun.

On the bright side - Shabbos is coming and I'm hoping for a nice long shluff in the hammock. Of course, tomorrow morning will be spent scouring my bedroom - I don't think I have the koach to do it tonight. At least there's no cooking to be done as all Shabbos meals are being eaten with most of the kehila at the shul.

A thought for the night: Happiness isn't earned - it is a right. Happiness is something that you need to decide to be - no one else can decide on it for you.

P.S. Everyone deserves to feel warm and fuzzy sometimes!!! :o)

"He loved humankind dearly and with all his heart, but he disliked most human beings." ~W. Somerset Maugham

2007-03-28T21:23:00.000+02:00

It is now 9:20 at night and feels like 2:00 in the morning. I did nothing productive today (as seems to be the trend of the week.) Above is a picture of my fish Guh-Filter staring out the window. If I were him I would also rather stare out than at my mess of a bed which is pictured below. I have a funny feeling that tonight I am going to be sleeping on the couch...
Here are my bookshelves. This little case is a part of my collection. The rest all still live at Home. (Of course, there are also the ones the Little Brother has - but we won't go into that now...)
Look!!! I actually found my table!!! It was somewhere, under much stuff that is currently residing in a garbage can...

I have one lonely flip flop. I think the other one ran off with my sanity...
Below is a photo of our shower curtain at The Ranch. There IS a story behind it - but that is on a 'need to know' basis and YOU don't need to know... :P
I miss my Becca!!! She brought us this sign last year when she came to visit and every time I see it I think of her!!! (Of course, I think of her lots more times every day too...obviously!)
This is what we've been eating at The Ranch - since about 2 weeks ago when the 'no more buying chametz' ban was placed upon me by the strict Rajah of The Ranch... :oP Luv ya my Dunce!!!!
Basically, today has been ---

never mind, I can't even think of a word for it.

The week is almost over. Thankfully. It's crazy, I haven't had such an unproductive feeling week in a REALLY long time and frankly I HATE them.

Tomorrow I head Home to clean there...

Wish me luck?

Hopeful hearts will find forever Roses underneath the snow! ~George Cooper

2007-03-26T22:26:00.000+02:00

Today followed in yesterday's footsteps. Not so grand but at least I didn't feel useless. Instead of dwelling on today I will share with you an incredible gift given to me by someone I love very much and who has made such an incredible impact on my life.
I love the springtime - when everything is in bloom and hope seems to blossom as life bursts into vibrant colors all around.
Everything holds so much promise and so much potential. All it needs is some tender care and the inspiration to grow.
On Erev Shabbat I was gifted with this stunning rose. Not only was it beautiful to look at but it smelled incredible. The leaves were soft and the thorns were as sharp as needles.

Of course, I should have looked to the rose for advice on how to face the last few days. Of course there are thorns, but in the end - you've also got the rose and it is worth all of the pain.

The trick, I am learning, is how you handle it.

Mr. Gay Dar...

2007-03-20T22:24:00.000+02:00

When I woke up at 7:00 this morning, I was a little confused as to where I was. Eventually I realized that I was Home in my bed. I finally got up, found my toothbrush and teddy bear and went downstairs. I love to see more-than-friends early in the morning...

Fringe and Frizzie attack the cake but the force-field prevents them from the sugary goodness of the chocolate yumminess.Work was annoying today. These 9 hour days are awful. Though, I did take an hour long break today and went out for lunch with Shosh. We got some frozen yogurt too.

After work Freddie, Brenda and Re'ut came and rescued me from my office. We walked out to The Old City and paid a MUCH needed visit to the Kotel.

After dropping Brenda off at TM we headed to The Ranch. Freddie made some 'vulgar' and we drinked a bottle of Muscato. My Woof showed up to visit and then we 'cleaned' - ripped down paper chains and wiped down shelves and talked about, never mind...

Some things are better left - unshared. :)

Stu-ey Gasses...

2007-03-17T23:02:00.000+02:00

Well, Friday morning dawned bright and beautiful. Did I mention the rain? We piled into the car (eventually) and got underway to Neve Aliza for Tova & Simcha's Shabbat Sheva Brachot. The rain was incredible (and wet) and we had a pretty uneventful trip out to the yishuv.
Shabbos was very nice. All meals were eaten at the shul and of course we never turn down the opportunity to spend 'quality time' with the cousins.

Friday night was uneventful and we got a nice extra little shpatzir up the hill. We made it to Shul on time enough and after davening was the meal. We were visited by leprachauns who made off with the silverware, ate highlighter green stuff to dye our tongues and then the chair collapsed under Eli's weight... :oPAfter Shabbos we packed up and as we waited to go Daddy expanded his vocabulary.

It's good to be educated. :)
Shavua Tov!!!

"You're so Domesticated..."?!?

2007-03-15T23:00:00.000+02:00

The alarm clock beeped it's annoying 'beep beep' this morning and for some funny reason Freddie didn't get out of bed to turn it off. After almost 45 minutes I remembered something VERY important. Freddie was not Home...

Daddy had to take the car into The City for an 'oil change' and some other 'stuff' - so I joined him. We took the 'tunnel roads' - past Beitar, through the tunnels and into the city from the south-west. At first there was pouring rain - which turned into slush and finally into sticky snowflakes - only to change into big fluffy flakes as we approached The City.
Daddy turned on the defroster and said, "Wow, it's not often I get to push this button!"

In The City we dropped off the car then caught a 14 toward 'town' and TM. I headed to the office only 15 minutes late and it was a crazy 8 hours of 'catching up' (which I guess I deserved considering that I took off 2 days...)

A 'new girl' started today. She is part-time and 'temp' (supposedly.) She's cute, and we'll see how things go. (Gotta admit, I do miss Chaya!!!)

Caught a 416 Home and spent the ride standing near a neighbor, a friend and a cutie. How random is that? It only ever happens when I don't have the time, energy or contacts for it. ;) Freddie, he was your type - chaval you weren't with me...

They saved me some dinner, I took a shower and thanks to the popcorn fight - I smell all buttery instead of sweet, clean and yummy.

Oh well. I suppose there are worse things...

"Oooooh, Pretty Colors..."

2007-03-14T21:32:00.000+02:00

I got a late start this morning. But I didn't have anywhere to be so I took my sweet time. Mommy and I headed out to greet Shosh at the airport - as she arrived in Israel on Aliyah!!! Toffee and I got comfortable as we waited for the Nefesh B'Nefesh group to arrive.
FINALLY Shosh came out! It was so funny! She was only away for a week - and I can't tell if it's been a long one or not. I have been so ridiculously busy!
After our brief meeting at the airport, Mommy and I headed out to Netanya. First we were stalked by a green Tivol truck.
At Ikea, we got ready to have some fun... :)

I'd call this one a 'Teddy Bear Picnic...'
After almost 3 hours of non-stop Ikea wandering, Mommy and I checked out a love-seat (which I REALLY wanted - but decided not to get) then we paid and made our way back to the car.
Toffee was waiting for us at the car. He had chosen NOT to tire himself out shopping and had opted to wait in the car and eat Bamba instead. Strange Bear, I know.

The conversation topics in the car on the way Home were highly entertaining and we stopped off in the flash-rain/hail-shower to pick up some lettuce and cucumbers for Brenda.

Next time we'll split the driving and we'll bring good music. Not that I have anything against the Maniacs, but I would've enjoyed the 'dirty' music even more. :)

Cheesy Mousse...

2007-03-13T23:59:00.000+02:00

So, I took off from work today. I spent the morning relaxing, grocery shopping and enjoying life in general. Mommy gave me a haircut (only 2 inches) and I took a nap in the big chair in the living room. The best I could do in the 'cuddle' department was Toffee and Mickey. The afternoon flew by and before I knew it we were at the Shul for Tova and Simcha's Sheva Brachot.
It was really quite nice. Saba and Savta invited lots of their friends and it was mostly family.
The guests of honor showed up late - but they showed up, which is the important part. :)
Even Chaim, who went into the IDF today was able to make it.
Saba and Daddy ran around introducing everyone to everyone else and helping to make sure that things were running smoothly.

Daddy even gave a Dvar Torah. These were his notes.
The dessert was good. It was pretty too. :)
Mommy and Aunt Sharon even got to spend some time together!
By the end of the night I was falling off my feet but as usual I was in good spirits and highly amused, as I usually am after spending a few hours with my cousins.

Back at Home everything is quiet. I stole a bottle of coconut flavored(?) hand soap and I think now it is time to get some sleep.

Big day tomorrow cause Shosh is coming HOME!!! :)

But only for you.

2007-03-11T23:59:00.000+02:00

So this afternoon was Tova and Simcha's wedding. It was out at a very nice hall in Petah Tiqwa.Weddings (although they are fun) always sort of bum me out nowadays. Evidently the people getting married are getting their fairy-tale ending (even though it's just the beginning and all the hard stuff comes after and blah blah blah - I know I know.) Still, I always kinda wish it was my turn to get mine too.

Anywho - thanks to my brilliant Mother, Freddie and I sat with the 'friends' and had a decidedly dead table.
Thankfully, our little siblings and cousins were at a table - so we rounded up a couple of glasses of wine and sat and shmoozed with them.
Eventually the party ended and we headed Home. Last picture of the night - I just couldn't resist...
Anywho - tomorrow is back to work for a day. Wish me luck...

Belly Dancing... :)

2007-03-08T23:59:00.000+02:00

Well, today started out like a typical Thursday. Or so I thought. Until...
Things started going 'funny' when my coworker finally gave-up with trying to deal with the obnoxious attitudes in the office. She walked out the door never to return again.

Freddie came to visit bearing Laffahs fresh from the Shuk.

After work I shlepped down to the OU center (as planned) but the person I had done the shlepping for was not yet there. So I wandered to a park and relaxed until they decided to show up. Then it was all, setting off alarms accidentally and wrapping-up practices.
Finally we headed over to my Big Sis's place. The Munchkins were sleeping and after about a month I FINALLY got some MUCH appreciated shmooze time with my Sis.

Have I mentioned that those couches are very comfortable? :)

I totally would have slept over - but you know the whole deal with friends who are scared to walk home alone in the dark... ;)

Tomorrow morning - "Waiting for Godot" - on Ben Yehuda....

"Her kisses left something to be desired...the rest of her." ~Author Unknown

2007-03-06T21:49:00.000+02:00

Well, truth be told I am not sure if I ended yesterday or began today at 3:15 this morning. You see, Shosh left on a jet-plane for MerryCa and LandsBeyond on her journey back to The Holy Land as an Israeli Citizen.

Basically - by the time I was supposed to wake up for work I was more exhasuted than anything. Still, I dragged myself up and out.

It was a decidedly typical Tuesday and despite some grumpy bosses I put my most obnoxiously cute side forward and charmed them all to smiles and laughter. Ok, so not really - but at least I know that I was in a jovial type mood for most of today. And I DID get the bosses to crack a few smiles even though the tension in the office was so thick that the air crackled with it and a sense of gloom hung over the place.

On a VERY nice note - my Big Sis came to visit. Have I mentioned I have two of the yummiest nephews in the world?! (Thanks for the pastries by the way - I ate all of them cause they were left by me on the front counter...) It was GREAT to see her and it drove home to me (again) that I really don't like the job but I really do love and appreciate my coworkers!!!

About 1/2 an hour before it was time to go - Freddie showed up to rescue me. :)
We decided that it has been a wonderful week so far and that the atmosphere was begging for us to do something extravagant and 'out of the blue' which is how we wound up at:
After lots of shmoozing, some funny and thoughtful waiters, a lot of salad dressing, many chips, some lettuce, lots of laughs and a good time - we headed back out into the Jerusalem night.

Crisp and clear are the two words that I would use to describe the weather in The City tonight. It really is quite beautiful out there. I would go and wander the streets for a while - but someone who cares about me very much has strongly recommended that I postpone any night-time excursions for another time when I am more rested.

I would be loathe to agree, but frankly -
I'd much rather wait till I can take a stroll with them. :)
2 weeks and counting? Right? ;)

"Whoso loves believes the impossible." ~Elizabeth Barrett Browning

2007-03-05T13:57:00.000+02:00

So today was Shushan Purim. I had to work. So I shlepped into Jerusalem and to the office and sat around doing absolutely nothing. But, as these things often go - it was not for nothing.

After being rescued from my office I got to spend a couple of hours in the sunshine. Have I mentioned how much I love parks? Green grass and trees and sunshine and fresh air!!! Eventually I made my way Home. Mommy decided to BBQ, how could I resist?! We watched part of Dirty Dancing (yes, again) and even played with our cell phones and made them sing in unison. Right Brenda? And finally I tracked down Cookie Monster. He went missing during yesterday's festivities - and now we know why...
Do his eyes look a little glassy to you? I thought they did, so I tucked him and his now empty bottle into bed - he just couldn't bear to be parted from it.

Speaking of bed - I think I should find my way there sooner rather than later.

Whaddaya reckon?

John Don Fuzzy...

2007-03-03T23:53:00.000+02:00

Shabbos was really nice. Friday night Shani and I 'shpatz'ed around the neighborhood (ok, so a little further than the neighborhood - but it was nice.) Made it to shul for revii' and then lunch was early and chalavi which was really nice. Spent Shabbos afternoon with Little Brother and Shani. First a nap in the hammock then a rainshower and finally rummikub - which I actually won - once anyway...

Megillah reading was quick and relatively painless. Mory read and it wasn't toooo bad. I got a few comments on my stomach and then we headed Home.

Back at Home we decided that tonight's activity would be COOKIES!!! :)
Woof and The Squeaky One stopped by with a few friends to say Hi!!!Of course, Cookie Monster wanted to get in on the fun!
And then Cookie wanted to play with Cookie playing with Cookie!
Lots of fun.

Lots and Lots of fun!

Heehee, I like fun!

PURIM SAMEACH!!!

"Stop Poking Me - That's Mine!..."

2007-03-01T23:59:00.000+02:00

It was a typical Thursday with everything so utterly normal that it was enough to drive me mad. (Not glad mad or sad mad just a tad mad. Got it partner?)

After work I made my way Home with Freddie. We helped set the table and then had some 'break fast' of tomato soup and fettucine alfredo.

It was Ezri's birthday so Freddie and I stopped off and picked up some presents and Mommy baked him a special birthday cake. We lit the 1 & 0 candles along with the 'good-luck' one and then after carrying the thing to the table we lit all 10 sparklers. :)
The Dibble gave us a preview of his Purim costume (he is going as a Runescape Guy) and Fuzz-Buzz (I mean, Ezripoo) posed with his new fuzzy monkey.
Toffee got into the Holiday spirit and read through מגילת אסתר. Well, what did I tell you about him being an educated fur-ball?!
In this picture I think I was actually trying to think. How amusing is that? I mean, it doesn't happen too often and even when it does it doesn't always work too well. And I quote, "now why would you want to do that?" :P
Thank you for everything Saba and Savta!!! It was SO very appreciated! Thank you for the use of your house and for the quiet and for the company and for the advice and thank you for your unconditional love! I love you both so much!!!

All in all - it was a good day. Yes, quite a good day.

I'm mellow and sleepy - but I think I am content.

That's a good combination with which to start off the weekend, no?

Fuzzy Head Alcohol Syndrome?

2007-03-01T23:48:00.000+02:00

Fringe decided randomly (as these desicions often are) that the house was lacking in sugar. Upon opening the cabinet he realized that the 95% proof alcohol was running low as well. So, he begged the humans for some cash and decided to head to the grocery store.First he grabbed some dinner (can you find the one he ate? Of course not, it's in his stuffed little tummy.)
Then he hopped into the purse and demanded to be taken to the store.
It was rush hour (at 11:00 p.m.) - even on the express lane.So he stopped to check out the tomatoes. They need to be 'just ripe' for him to bother with them.
Purim is coming and Fringe has never been able to resist shiny things, so he just had to check out the cellophane wrapped goodies.
On the checkout lane, he tried to swipe the 5 shekels from the cart of the people ahead of him. Unfortunately, the coin-shmidjamajigit worked so well that he was unable to make off with the extra gelt.

He waited patiently for the ringer-upper lady to ring-up the stuff...
(check out that cute little beer-belly.)Though, he played innocent when the chashier asked him for some ID.

"What's THAT doing here?" :)
The walk home was pretty cold and he was glad he had brought his mittens with him. Of course, a couple of swigs of the booze helped to warm up his fluff. (I reckon that is the reason he looks so darned happy in this last picture...)On a more serious note, the lesson of the day is that, "Destiny has a lot to do with it, but so do you. You have to persevere, you have to insist." When you find something that is worth fighting for, something that you truly believe in it - hold to it and don't give it up without a fight.

Only you can live your life. If someone else is making all the choices and decisions for you - then you are not living. Understand opinions and listen to advice, but at the end of the day - you need to choose what is right for you.

A Daily Goal: Learn lots and make good choices...

"With all answers leading to you..."

2007-02-26T23:05:00.000+02:00

Work was an ABSOLUTE bore today. I had to do three other peoples work (as usual) and Chaya and I eventually got sick of it all and went out to find some lunch. I think I spent more time fleishig today than I did anything else.

Eventually I got sick of sitting around doing nothing so I ran out and got a quick manicure. :) That started my 'girly' shopping spree day.
After work I met up with Shosh and we went to explore the shuk in search of jars for chocolate liqueur that she is planning to give with the cakes for mishloach manot. We didn't find 'the perfect' jar, but I did walk out of the shuk with a really cute little olive oil jug for the counter.
Our next stop was one of the fun earring shops on King George. I found these cutie-pies for Purim. :) I like buggies Brenda!!!
Next stop - Hair-things!!! Check out the FUN colors!!! Ok, well - I think they're fun and 'cool'!
That was the extent of my adventures today. Dinner was yummy. After frosting the rest of the cakes and eating the last chicken soup (in order to make room for the cakes in the freezer) we went to the neighbors and got some 'real' food.

What else happened today? Not much that I can think of. Some sweet messages and some poetic banter. But that about sums it up.

Oooooof, time to go clean the frosting off the ceiling.

Ok, so now we know why you aren't supposed to pick up the mixer before it comes to a complete stop...

Discussed the Wits?...

2007-02-25T22:49:00.000+02:00

This morning I woke up bright and early. Mommy and I went out and I found a BEAUTIFUL shirt to wear to cousin Tova's wedding. It is black and it is hideous looking on the hanger - but, on me... :)

Then I went to catch a bus back to Jeru and Toffee and I got to spend some time talking with Tamir. (Thanks for putting up with me in my ridiculously happy mood!! Much appreciated!) The window-shade was down so I didn't get to watch the view that I love, but Toffee was able to sneak a peek - or two.Work was quiet. 2 out of 3 bosses weren't in and aside from doing two other peoples' work, I did nothing much. Well, that's not true. I spent a good portion of my day shmoozing with my partner and listening to a certain song on repeat...The fuzzy ones were forced to come to the office, as I didn't have time to go back to The Ranch before heading there. Frizzie and Fringe made some random trouble (something about staples in the paper shredder and coffee in the copier.) Toffee on the other hand, practiced his French skills by reading a French newspaper. He's quite the educated fuzz-ball.
Eventually work was over and I trudged back to The Ranch in the rain (in my sandals without socks.) The wind was so strong that I was thankful for the heavy backpack to weigh me down. Finally when Shosh got home we had a quick snack and then started dealing with the Mishloach Manot cakes.They needed to be frosted. Somehow, that became my responsibility...

The truly amazing thing is the amount of stuff that we can fit into out tiny little freezer. Mommy, you would be proud.

For the record, the wine in the picture above was a bottle of Muscato - and NO, we didn't have room in the fridge - so YES, we DID finish it off... :)

Tomorrow is another day and time for more fun and adventures!

"A Madness Most Discreet..."

2007-02-22T23:59:00.000+02:00

~ Shakespeare (Romeo and Juliet - Act:1 Scene:1)

Work was the usual. The weather was gorgeous and I got elected to take a stroll down to the bank. It was a perfect iced coffee and potato chip day. Yes indeed.
Back at Home, nothing much was going on. Mommy made yummy dinner of lasagna and mushroom barley soup. Then Brenda, Mommy and I watched Moulin Rouge (yes, this makes it the umpteenth time that I've seen it and YES I still cried at the end.)

Shabbos is coming. Yay!

Misdeed Absolved - Crisis Resolved

2007-02-20T21:00:00.000+02:00

Well, work was the same old today. Another 9 hour day. Was it busy? Not particularly. Did I enjoy myself? Not really. Something a little fishy is up in the office though and I am not quite sure what is going on. I think the bosses are looking to hire someone new. For when and what I have no clue - but if it means less insane responsibility for me - bring it on.

Walked back to The Ranch and put up the first part of dinner. Shosh is doing the rest and there are rugelach for dessert. (That is of course assuming that Shosh doesn't get a concussion from all of the spices that keep jumping out of the cupboard at her head...)

I think I will go work on my blanket a bit. The old green and blue one that is in the process of being knitted. Yeah, I think I am on the 8th square - just 12 more to go. Here's a picture of Toffee Bear (who is supposedly cuter than me) sitting with my knitting. Well, he's sort of with my knitting - it's more like, sitting near my knitting...

Confession for the day - I miss my Big Sis. :-/

On the bright side - next week... :)

Z'heeee Butttum...

2007-02-17T21:16:00.000+02:00

Shavua Tov! Chodesh Tov! Happy Belated Birthday Saba! Happy Early Birthday Mommy! Shabbos was VERY nice. Like, REALLY REALLY nice! Friday morning was spent at the shul setting up the kiddush. Dum and her friend Dina came for Shabbos.

Friday night we got to shul a little late and then the meal was fun followed by Apples to Apples and then after much giggling many hours of sleep.

We got up bright and early Shabbos morning and made our way to shul to set up the rest of the kiddush. The affair was pulled off without a hitch and a bunch of people swarmed my mother to try and convince her to cater their upcoming s'machot. We were so full after the kiddush that lunch started after 1 and then we had just enough time left for a quick Shabbos nap.

Shabbos ended (as usual) much too quickly and now we're finding some melava malka and watching some 'Dirty Dancing' - I've included some pictures below of our 'fun' time making, baking and being. Enjoy!

Shlokit Cake!!! Aren't I just the CUTEST?!
Cupcakes are deeeeeelicious Stuff in the trolley...
Smile mine Freddie-o!
Hat Boxes / Height Givers - (when you put 'em on z'hee buttum)
Pretty Chocolate Covered Pretzels - Till 2 a.m. baby!!!
Happy Dibble! (What else? Even when he's screaming - he's happy!?)
Cucumbers = מלפפוניםs...
Get me outta this trolley. And next time, I DON'T wanna go down the hill...
1/2 Frosted Cookies. Where's the cream filling?
Cooooooookie!!! (We missed you Little Brother! MWAH!)

"you'we afwaid..."

2007-01-29T21:20:00.000+02:00

I woke up veeeery early this morning. (Ok, well early is a relative term for me.) By 7:30 I was out of The Ranch and on my way to Sassy's place. We shmoozed and she finished convincing me that the time has come to make some changes in my life.

An hour and a half later, at the office, I was inclined to agree. Work was crazy and I didn't have the will to sit still. I spent most of the day wandering around aimlessly and trying to avoid busy-work. I was pretty successful and am mildly surprised at how efficiently I managed the task. Don't get me wrong - I did PLENTY of work. But, I didn't do anyone else's work - which is something almost unthinkable.

After walking back to The Ranch in the stinging wind, my nose was frozen and I felt like I had double ear infections. I decided to pass on swimming (seeing as my entire sense of balance was off kilter.) So, I sat around and waited for Shosh to get home. We bonded over pictures and jellybeans and now I do believe that it is time to retire for the night.

Regarding the picture - it is just one more proof that Pollys and their (stuffed) animals are...

Well, they are...tied together in some cosmic way. I'm sure that makes sense somehow or somewhere - just don't ask me why...

Cuba?...

2007-01-25T23:30:00.000+02:00

You know those colors that you think can only be found in a box of Crayola crayons? Well, this morning I managed to catch a glimpse of the most beautiful shade of deep aquamarine eyes that I have EVER seen. Would you believe that I actually went into the office today? No, I didn't sleep last night and yes I went to work. Luckily my boss wasn't there so I filed and did a lot of nothing. Then the Mr. Boss let me go Home early - which was nice.
At Home all was as normal as anything in my house ever is. Mommy is still in Merry Ca so the family is fending for themselves.
Frankly, we're doing ok - so long as you keep us away from the camera... (Mommy!!! Come HOME!!!)
Eli made us pizza-y things for dinner and Freddie made a BIG pot of veggie soup (with mushrooms?)
Freddie and I were supposed to clean our room - but it's 11:30 and we still haven't even thought abut starting. (Though, we did manage to make up the beds for most of the Gordon Family who will be joining us for Shabbat.)

I was supposed to read 'Wacky Wednesday' and 'Sam and the Firefly' to the Dibble - but while I was upstairs trying to dig them out of my suitcase he fell asleep. I guess he really was tired...
Brenda hasn't been feeling well. As a matter of fact I didn't even see her tonight. She locked herself in her room and went straight to sleep when she gt Home from school. I hope she's feeling better tomorrow. :(
Here is Daddy playing GPS and trying to help Mr. Gordon navigate the streets of Yerushalayim.

Meanwhile, Freddie is practicing piano and I SHOULD be getting some sleep. But first we really really need to clean our room. Shani came over earlier and said it was messy - and when Shani agrees that our room is messy... it is in REALLY bad shape.

With my crazy hectic schedule tomorrow all I can say is,

G'nite and a Splendiferous Shabbos to all!

Baby Fish Mouth...

2006-12-18T00:18:00.001+02:00

So, it was a pretty early morning. Caught a 420 at 8:55 and headed up to The City. Work was the usual, but I got out early and headed Home to catch the 'Teens vs. Adults Game Nite' at the Shul. Personally, I enjoyed. I LOVE our community. Mostly because there aren't very many sane people in it. Anywho, we played lots of old 'game-show' games and had breakfast for an after-dinner snack. AND ice-cream.

As usual, pictures speak louder than words - though, there were some pretty amusing things said at this thingamajig...

Enjoy... Quality time with Freddie and Shani.
Squiggles the pancaked bear.

Cookies?

Shani and Vivi!!!

Vivi and Vered - get into the spirit!
Nice turn-out considering how 'cold' it was.
Awwwww, Ben... (Freddie, nice burp - for the record...)

WAFFLES!!!
Pancakes vs. Waffles at the after dinner breakfast snack time.
No Cheating Silly Brother!!!

Freddie and Shani!!!

All in all an exceptionally enjoyable evening. Back at Home I spoke to Daddy. He'll be on his way Home soon. (Though, I'm going back to Jeru, so I won't see him until Shabbos.) My toes are cold and I should go to sleep - I have to get up before 7.

Good night all - Happy 3rd night of Chanukah and remember,

Packet of Seeds... (x2)

Family ISN'T Only Biological...

2006-11-17T11:35:00.000+02:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE CUTEST MUNCHKIN!!!!
I really do love my nephew - even though we don't see each other much... (Owing to my laziness mostly.) Sis, don't sulk. One of these days I'm gonna get up off my lazy tush and then you won't be able to get me out of your house. (Except of course for when we're going out to do some 'arts-n-crafts...)

Also, I'd like to say Thank You to my Little Brother for coming to visit me, for making me smile and for being my cheer-leader when times seem to spiral into darkness. Oh yeah, and thanks for the picture.

Everyone, may I present - DUCKIE...
(And Thanks to Shani we know that he says, "Quac I Luv You...")

Have a splendiferous Shabbos everyone!

A Waffle-Bar?...

2006-11-03T09:17:00.000+02:00

Check out the little Tzaddik!
How utterly delicious is this kid?

Hehe, I certainly do shep from my nephew. (Thanks for the pic Sis!)
Anywho - have a splendiferous shabbos and try to stay away from the desserts.

Till next week at least... ;)

Shloimie Alfalfa-Sprout...

2006-10-17T21:37:00.000+02:00

Second FULL day of work. I was at the office for nine and a half hours. Finished a double mailing and shlepped 'em down to the post-office with everyone else's help. Spent the rest of my time filing and doing arts-n-crafts.

After leaving the office I met up with Freddie and she bought me a bagel. Then we shmoozed on the bus as we made a spur of the moment decision to 'do breakfast' in the morning. On the way back to the Ranch I picked up the ingredients so it seems that 'the morning' is gonna be fun.

Routine is in swing so there isn't anything more to report - and probably won't be for a while. However, I DO want to keep the blog 'young' and 'fun' so with my sister's permission I have blogged my adorably-loveable-nephew.
Hopefully I'll be getting some more recent photos soon - and as soon as I do you can bet you'll be seeing those gorgeous baby-blues again...My scary thought of the day - by the time I seriously consider slashing my work-hours again I will have less than 2 months until my 22nd birthday. *Sigh* I wouldn't feel so (st)'uck'(?) if I knew that my life was heading in a direction, but I feel like I'm just floating. Moving, but not anywhere useful, worthwhile or productive.

Yair is a Nice Name...

2006-10-14T19:51:00.000+02:00

Erev chag was pretty quiet and hum-drum. Lots of cooking, screaming and cleaning. Nothing out of the ordinary. Aside from the fun of making the funnest dessert, which is documented below.

Friday night was pretty quiet. Hakafot were spirited, Little Brother came over for the meal and then we walked to Aviv after dessert. Resolved certain issues, which no longer pester me and had a good night's sleep when we got Home. At least I walked away feeling content with my choices - even if that was my opponents objective. I am finished with this game. Rather, I am finished playing this game with you. I'll find someone better to play with.

Woke up and was at shul on time but left in the middle of the 3rd hakafah and went Home. Fell asleep and took a refreshing 3 hour nap. Woke up for a late meal and then Brenda and I walked out to Saba and Savta's house. We shmoozed and played rummikub - and I won. ;)

After havdala Mommy came and picked us up. Now it's Motz"ash and back to life. I just spent a week listening to people try to convince me to do something more fulfilling with my life. After all the speeches I know that my dead-end job isn't really cutting it and that while I love some of the people there, it isn't getting me anywhere in the scheme of things.

Suppose we'll see how this unfolds. Stay tuned...

We Are Now Solidified...

2006-10-12T23:59:00.000+02:00

Spent a goodly amount of hours in the car today. We went to Barkan out in the Shomron. There were supposed to be all sorts of sales and fairs, but it was more like 'browse the warehouses' - so it wasn't really much fun. The best part was the moonwalky thing where I decided that it is unfair for Dibble and Ezri to have ALL the fun, so I jumped on and took a turn too! The Preisers found us at some point and after enough warehouse browsing we went out to another little place for a cute little street fair.
The sun set while we were there and I took time to enjoy the colors of the surrounding wilderness. Oh yes, and the wilderness.After the fair we headed to Ginot to visit the cousins, with the cousins. Dinner was nice but it wasn't until dessert that things got interesting. Something about old people only ever discussing taxes, politics and their illnesses. But then Shui started flinging this folded paper from the box and it went around the table. Next time I think we should be able to taste both the vanilla and the chocolate ice-cream. Especially since they were the 'minis' - I mean, they're small. Really.

Toffee was content to sit and watch the fish. Their names are Bubbles, Freddie and Splash. Of course, the bear is contemplating the best way to grab 'em and run - but you'd never know that from the placid stance and innocent looking face.
Chag again tomorrow and vacation is practically over. I hate this part. Hope everything goes well! Mebbe it will, there is the hope of seeing my puppy and finding a new scruffy and Little Brother will be around, not to mention a zillion other people.

I think I'll go bake some ice-cream cone cup-cakes...

More tomorrow... :)

Mortal to a Fault...

2006-10-09T23:59:00.000+02:00

So this morning was spent on a tiyul in Gush Etzion. We did lots of stuff but I'll let the pictures speak for themselves. Back at Home the second night of the annual Jewish Rock & Soul festival. Lots of fun, music, friends, crazy-rides. And yes, I got shot-gun. Hahaha!

Anywho - about those pictures...

All I will say is, it is nice to have things settled in my head - though I still don't really understand, I'll just box it and leave it. I just hope it doesn't bite me in the butt in 20 years. Nah, that'll never happen - ah, the foolishness of the young.

Moadim L'simcha!!!

For all Intensive Purposes...

2006-10-06T09:05:00.000+02:00

If I told you what time I went to sleep at last night - you wouldn't believe me. But don't worry, I didn't get a full night's sleep. I took an 'awake shift' from midnight till about 3:15am.

Now it's really erev chag. I've already been in the kitchen and everything is progressing at an acceptable pace. The cookies are just about finished, we just need to frost the Black & Whites. The little man even came and switched the gas balloon on our grill, so now we can make the chicken! In other news. Mommy has been experimenting again. We are going to have quite the colorful meal. Carrot soup and pea soup - both vibrant and I think it'll look pretty swirled in the bowl...

And for the head-banger of the day - Riddle me this:

What is the difference between roast beef and pea soup?

Anyone can roast beef, but...

Nootch, Debwa and Dum are coming for Chag! Shani is Home and hopefully we'll see other friends too! If not, there's always open house tomorrow night! Stay tuned for pic updates as the Holiday begins and progresses.

There's always fun in the Polly House except of course, for when there is chaos.

Gotta go fix the Sukkah! Have a great one!

Thanks For the Call Z...

2006-10-04T23:59:00.001+02:00

Today was quite interesting. At work I was offered a raise of approximately $0.75 per hour. I'm thinking of laughing at the P.T.B. and moving on. Especially seeing as I work my butt off (basically alone) and am definitely being paid less than certain other individuals (ie: the married people.)

After work I headed back to the Ranch to wait for Shosh. Then we hopped on a bus in the general direction of Home for a night of DT writing and cookie-dough-making.

Below is the story of the Evil Indian Thief...

Basically, at the end of the day - the evil thief was caged and the fuzzy 'thing' freed. Incidentally, I was the hero and Toffee my sidekick. My partner was virtually there too - though only in letters.

The next picture proves once and for all that with enough 'reminding' Daddy actually DOES do the meat dishes. THANK YOU DADDY!!!And of course, the cookie dough (Double batch Rum&Spice...) That'll smell good in the morning...

I even spoke to Sawa who said she might visit the blog if she were ever to be ridiculously bored enough... Hi Sawa! We will talk - bout what I don't know, but we'll find something. Mebbe the weather?

"Shnitzel-feet?" Says Michalie...

2006-08-26T21:03:00.000+03:00

Shabbos was nice. Colorful description, I know. Friday night we refused to leave the house, so we stayed Home and let everyone come to us. We saw Shani (and 'chilled') and played Uno (and I won.) Then Fischerette came to visit, so that was fun - till they left to party at the Zwebners. Shabbos morning was hard - I just couldn't drag myself out of bed. But, I made it to Shul only 15 minutes late. Once again we decided not to leave the house. The Woof came to visit and so did Little Brother. (He still owes me a game of Rummikub. Mebbe later?) I did leave the house to go visit Ora. We shmoozed and shteiged, which was really nice, cause it's been a LOOOOONG while since we caught up on each other's lives.

As promised, here are some pictures from yesterday's trip to the beach. We wound up going to Netanya because according to rumor the beaches down in Ashdod were closed due to "contamination?!" It was lots of fun anyway. Nootch came and so did Michalie and Raizi!

"Slumbers" (my?) Brenda's bear came along too and he enjoyed.Ezri dug a hole (with Brenda and Michalie's help) whilst the Dibble conquered his fear of the ocean.
Have I mentioned how much I LOVE the beach?Shabbos is over now and we're BBQing cause Little Brother is here and we're making him his promised shish-kabobs. Nootch, Michalie and the Woof are still here, so we're having a party.

Gotta go make some 'chips' - It's so nice to have fun.

Shavua Tov everybody!!!

Ungrateful Employers...

2006-08-13T22:15:00.000+03:00

I had an early morning. It was 'back to work' day and I did them a favor and went in early. When I say early I mean, I was on a bus out of Bet Shemesh before 9 in the morning so that I could make it to the office by 10.

There was general chaos as we moved into the newly renovated office. All I can say is that the secretaries seem to have lucked out big time while the bosses were shoved into broom closets. (Not that I'm complaining, but even I who only took arcitecture for 1 year probably could have drawn up better plans for the space.) Seeing as I got there at 10 I left at 3. Well, it's not like they were going to pay me over-time and I had other more important things to be doing.

Back at Home the third session of the baking chug was wrapping up. After the girls had left the 'after-party' began and Sammy, Brenda and Michalie made some cookies for our brave chayalim. I was waiting for our special guests to arrive. Tova and Rabbi C. came in from Manalapan for a one week visit. Sadly, we didn't get to spend much time with them, but they agreed to a quick visit. Bet Shemesh is 'on the way' to the airport anyway, so they stopped by for dinner and all I can say is, it was REALLY nice to see them. In addition, it was like a whole reunion because Saba and Savta came and so did the Abraham Family (all the way from RBS!!)

Now they are on their way back to New Jersey... What a whirlwind trip. I hope they come back and visit again real soon. (Feel free to bring some of our siblings next time too...) :)

As for me and tonight - well, not much going on. I think I'll go join Sammy and Raizi - they're watching 'Little Women' - I'll just have to find some tissues before I go in.

Everytime they sprinkle the flower petals on the dolls after Beth dies, I just lose it.

I know, I'm pathetic. Tell me something I don't know.

Fixative Superlative...

2006-08-10T18:36:00.000+03:00

Well, Freddie - though delayed - neglected to wake me up to go up to Jerusalem. I (of course) was uninterested in traveling by bus so decided to spend (yet another) day at Home. First Mommy and I washed the mirpeset. Then the Dibble showed up, so we washed him too.While the Dibble amused himself, I tended to the Tie-Dyed articles from yesterday's adventure. Sadly, upon touching the garments I realized that the 'dye-makers' had not followed the instructions. No fixative had been added to the dyes and so as the fabric dried, the powder dried as well and started to float away in the breeze. I decided to see how bad the situation actually was by attempting a 'wash' - suffice it to say, pastels are pretty - but I kind of liked the bold colors of yesterday...Obviously I had to do something stupid in the course of this 'fix-it' project. The mistake turned out to be amusing for the sake of comparison. I simply missed one sock. I somehow neglected it all the way at the bottom of the laundry basket. But now you can see the difference in colors. (Sorry Freddie - it's one of yours...) I relaxed in my favorite spot and enjoyed the quiet, the smell of the herbs and the sunshine.

We made thin chewy chocolate chip cookies (for the ice cream sandwiches.) We made a delicious smelling apple pie for Shabbos. We made some yummy tomato sauce concoction for dinner. And had fun in the kitchen. As usual.

Highlight of my day - My friend Cheli Beli from ALLLLL the way in Australia called me and to make it even more exciting, Becca was there too! I miss you soooo much Becca!!!

If anything else amusing happens tonight I'll let you know, but it looks like it's going to be a boring and quiet sort of night. It's my last REAL night of freedom, boredom and vacation.

Wow.

p.s. - Debs, a reminder - send out Parsha Sheet. :) See? I remembered! Teeheehee...

The BoringestER Vacation Continues...

2006-08-09T23:59:00.000+03:00

Did nothing all morning. Well, I watched 3 movies, but I don't think that counts. Actually, I went grocery shopping with Freddie and Daddy too. We also went to Mercaz and I finally got new Naot and then to Massada bookstore for the kids' schoolbooks. Then there was a Chefetz Chashud.

The second installment of the baking chug was today. They made multi-purpose pie crust. In the crust they then made tomato-onion-cheese quiche, Broccoli quiche and all 'american'(?) apple pie.

Raizi is still visiting and we watched Anastasia.
Finallly we moved on to our 'fun-time-project' of the day. We Tie-Dyed tee shirts, socks, pillow-cases and underwear. Ok, so we didn't really do the underwear, cause it was in the wash. But we did dye our hands, clothes, linens and the mirpeset floor too.
At 8:30 we headed out to Bet Guvin to a Neshama Carlbach and others concert. Kayla and her mom were there too. It was interesting to say the very least. I mean, it was nice. Mostly nice anyway.
We made it Home a little after midnight and decided to make some dinner. BBQ time. (Only logical thing, right?) So we ran over to the Raizi's to pick up some hot-dogs and Freddie cut up some veggies then she grilled them to perfection and we had a moonlit picnic at the glass table.
Now I reckon it's time to get some shut-eye.

I think I'm supposed to get up early tomorrow morning.

"Mmmm... Tastes Like Beetles."

2006-08-06T22:45:00.000+03:00

Today was Sunday. First I had the laziest morning that I have had in a very long time. I finally decided to get up and make myself presentable enough to show my face in public. (It takes a lot of work - but sometimes I can almost manage it.)
Then Saba and Savta picked me up and we headed up to Jerusalem for some grandaughter-quality-time. We went out for lunch then stopped off at the fabric store to pick up material for me to make a skirt for Sassy's wedding (which is coming up.)
Back at Home "Sammy's Cooking Chug" had its first session. They made multi-purpose-pizza-dough.
I call it 'multi-purpose' because there are so many things that you can do with it.
Such as:

Garlic Knots - (Knots of dough brushed with olive-oil and garlic.)

Pizza Bubble Rings - (Blobs of dough stuffed with cheese.)
and of course - Pizza (duh.)
After the flour fight, water fight, winkie overload, travelling clothes rack parade and cleaning the floor...

Mommy and I went out to a 'salad and socialize' evening at the shul. It was the Ima's of the community and me. Lol! Funny really. Dr. Yaffa spoke and it was quite an interesting affair.

Now I'm eating apple-dapple cake and some home-made ice cream and then I'll go to sleep.

More exciting stuff tomorrow as Rabbi C arrives and my vacation continues...

Would you like a muffin? I've got 2 to spare...

2006-08-05T21:15:00.000+03:00

Shabbos was lots of fun! Shosh was here and we certainly enjoyed our last chance to spend 'quality-time' together before she jets off to frummie-ville. :)Friday night we went to shul and then after the meal we sat around and had a little kumzitz with some singing, shmoozing and of course a couple of shots of cherry and chocolate liqueur... Woke up for shul this morning and it ran a little late then there was a 'one-year-anniversary kiddush' sponsored by a couple of families in the neighborhood. Lunch was a quick milchig affair and then we napped. Four hours later we stumbled downstairs to find something to nosh on and then Shabbos was over. We're trying to figure out our plans for tonight. Shosh is staying and I think some partying is in order.

Especially cause we can listen to music again.

Yay!

Shavua Tov everybody!

Feeling Perky?

2006-08-04T10:40:00.000+03:00

So, the Mushpuchah went to the park on Wednesday, just a few short hours before I got Home. But they took pictures so that I wouldn't feel left out. I have decided to share them in turn so that you can see 'em too.

Well, it looks like they had fun...

In other news, Shosh is over for Shabbos and we're having some good times before she flies off to England to visit her sister and the Pootchkies.

Mebbe tomorrow night I'll post some more pics (Blogger allowing...) as the party continues.

Have a Splendiferous Shabbos!

A Blender to Lend 'Er

2006-07-27T21:07:00.000+03:00

It was one of those rare and special Thursdays that only come around once a month. Savta told us not to come visit so we didn't get to help her make challah but we found other ways to entertain ourselves.

First we went to Office Depot to choose out a new יומן for the coming year then to the nursery to buy some rocks and then we went grocery shopping.

Speaking of nurseries, here are some photos of the Dibble's 'gradiminication' ceremony from גן חרצית just a few short weeks ago. I love the authentic outfits and just look at the smile on his face. Who doesn't love a Dibble now, seriously?!
Dinner was our big meal for the day. We ordered 3 pies and that gave each of us 3 slices each. Don't worry - I ate all 3 of my allowed slices. They were quite deeelicious. We had a squabble though trying to decide which pizza-place to order from. There are two in our neighborhood and we are split on taste-preferences. So we compromised and ordered from the Ramah. HAHAHA!! Brilliant indeed.

Mommy made angel-food cake for dessert - but not many of us made it to that part of the meal.

Tonight's agenda... Not a clue.

But, it's almost Shabbos.

Have a happy hop water day!

luv,
me

You Drive Me Crazy...

2006-07-21T14:15:00.000+03:00

I'm just a happy sort of person...

What can I say?

So, this morning Sassy came to visit!!! She was bored at Home - so she splurged 5 shekels and came to visit me in Bet Shemesh. We had quite a party. All around erev-shabbos fun...

We also had a 'popcorn adventure'...

Like the new hair-style? I dunno - I mean, it's ok with the laundry pins but bag closers?

And last but not least - A self-captured-portrait...

Wishing you ALL a splendiferously amazing Shabbos! I'm hoping for a good one. Tanya and her hubby are coming (finally) so it should be great! Woohoo! I'm so excited!!

Hughey - Luis AND...

2006-07-07T20:55:00.000+03:00

DEWEY!!!

Dewey and Drumna get along just splendidly! Aren't they precious?

Shabbos is going to be GREAT! Sassy is coming and we're going to walk to Saba and Savta's tomorrow and Ora is coming too. I am so excited!!! This is going to be SOOOO much fun!!

New family moved in 4 doors down. They have a 17 yr old girl and a 21 yr old girl. The catch?? The 21 yr old is married with a baby and lives in Yad Binyamin. *Sigh* and we were THAT close! Oh well... Doesn't matter - we'll just have to welcome the 17 yr old I suppose. Chaval they're not Home for Shabbos.

And on Sunday me n Sas start our diet. HAAAAAAA!!! (Ice pop diet that is!!!) ;)

HAVE A SPLENDIFEROUS SHABBOS!!!

Cawdor Castle, Culbin Forest & Loch Ness...

2006-06-23T10:23:00.000+03:00

Me n' mine Freddie, still hungry after last night's adventure decided to make some breakfast. Trust me, if you think you have any idea how good it came out - you're still waaaay off the mark. It was even better than you could possibly imagine...

First off - What we listened to...
(The picture IS sideways. Why? I dunno.)
Would you ever be able to guess that I'm just posing? I didn't actually fry - that was Sammy's job... (I was in charge of coating 'em.) Then the fun began... "Pote-Pote-Pote" "Gabba Gabba"And of course - the best part... The Eating. :)And now I'm off to clean some. There are dust-bunnies all over and I think it's time to drag out the vacuum...Have an amazingly splendiferous Shabbos no matter where you may be... (be it - stuck in the army, at Home, touring in America, Down-under, At the Hamers, Jerusalem or wherever! ENJOY! It only comes around once a week!!!)

Cherry Picking '06

2006-06-17T21:59:00.000+03:00

Who doesn't love cherries fresh off the trees?
Though we did have to drive over the Green Line to get there...

CHERRY PICKING FESTIVAL - 2006

Sammy's 'Battle Wound' - isn't it cute?

"The Kids"
"Who's Idea Was This?"
Uh-Oh!! Bernie Fell IN!!! Happy? Indeed.
YUM!! (Or Yuck?)
"Deliriously Happy?" or Dehydrated?
"Hangin' in There..."
"Yo' Abba Enjoys!"
"Puppy in a Basket?"

"Yeah, I still got it...""Me & Freddie - In The Tubey Thingy..."
What's a collage without the Dibble?

An Adorable Face...

2006-04-28T21:48:00.000+03:00

Finally, they loaded. Sheesh, that did take a while and there STILL isn't a picture of the 'people-eating-space-ship' HARUMPH!

Well, I guess this makes a good Friday post anyway, so post it I shall.

Speaking of post-its - I'm not allowed to use them anymore. I abused the privilege by taking the sticky part off of them... Hehe, I am EVIL. :)

That's all for now folks. I thought about not blogging until my computer situation is rectified, but I realized that this has become an outlet for me and seeing as I've lost something akin to my Home and best friend, I need some way to express myself. Hope y'all don't mind.

Have a Splendiferously Wonderful Shabbos! I shall try not to wallow in grief and despair because after all, it IS Shabbos and my favorite day of the week!

(Welcome back to THE Holy Land my Dunce!! I missed you something awful!!!)

I Don't Really Smell...

2006-04-28T09:07:00.000+03:00

Sammy has graciously allowed me to use her computer so that I can continue to blog and update you about the goings-on of my mediocre and yet relatively amusing life. Round of applause for Sammy.

Today was pretty boring. I cried a lot as I mourned the loss of my companion of three years and pitied myself and the situations I find myself in. I went to the bank to deal with some technical issues then I went on a road trip with Mommy and Freddie. First stop - Ginot. We didn't see the Preisers but we did get pizza and ice cream. Quite productive if I do say so myself. :) We then headed up to Eli's school, across the way from Kedumim and past three Arab willages. I wondered briefly what protocol was for bringing girls to an all boys yeshiva - then I realized, these kids learn in caravans in the middle of the Shomron. They don't have any protocol!! Our stop on the way Home was at Yad-Yitzchak. It is a HUGE American style grocery store, at least, that is what it tries to be. Truth of the matter is, it reminded us more of a Tesco's or Sainsbury's in the UK.

I watched The Four Feathers. For the reasons that it's a great story-line, it is sad - which gave me more reasons to cry and of course, Heath Ledger who is purely adorable pancake material.

After dinner (Organic Whole Wheat Noodles - that make you crazy) and a show (Dibble. Nuff' said.) Sammy and I were bored.

Sammy dragged me out for a 'night activity' - we didn't have energy to walk and there is nobody else around so we took out a bucket of sidewalk chalk (now called gutter-chalk) and created a masterpiece. (Ok, so we can't draw. Deal with it. We can do lots of other stuff. Including Bake. Well, I can at least... :) hehehe...)

I've included a picture for your viewing pleasure and will now be heading off to watch a REALLY bad movie - which is amusing in its badness.
Shabbos is coming. Things can't get any worse, can they? I certainly hope not. Let's see if anyone is around... I'll pray anyway but it probably won't make a difference...

Pale Peach Roses...

2006-04-21T22:35:00.000+03:00

As it is Friday again - I feel the need to post a nostalgic post. I have spoken about where we lived before we made Aliya and changed our lives. A few weeks ago I finally tracked down a number of photos of the house in which we lived. I know, it seems pretty tacky to say I love living in Israel and yet still to spend so much time remembering how nice it was in Merry Ca - but I can't help it. The memories are so strong though with each passing day they grow further and fade more.

We lived on Oxford court for ten years. The house once dark and forbidding became light and filled with laughter. So many good times, my childhood and memories galore.
I suppose the best place to start would be in the place that was the gathering spot for the family. It was the center of the house, without a doubt. With four entrances and always full of delicious smells. We each had our own spot where we would sit when shmoozing, chilling or even brooding. My spot was in the corner, on the far side of the kitchen on the right - yep, you see it? That counter over in the corner - I must have spent hours there over the years. Beneath the spice cabinet and with a view of the whole kitchen. The funny thing to note is how large the kitchen actually was. As the photo shows only half of it.

The next place to go was the room that originally was not meant to be used. The 'Big Room' was aptly named. Once again, only a part of the room is visible in the photo - but it was my favorite part. I spent hours staring out those windows at the backyard.

The yard was spectacularly beautiful in the warm spring rains that turned the forest into a veritable jungle. We used to call it our 'rain-forest.' The only time I can remember it being more beautiful that in the rain was when we would sit in front of the fireplace, the flames burning brightly and roast marshmallows as the snow fell silently outside, piling up against the windows and settling gently on the trees.

Last but certainly not least, the den in the 'back rooms' - this wing of the house was shared by Sammy and Myself. Our bedrooms were back there along with my father's office and Mommy's 'studio' (When she wasn't working in the garage on her 250 pound stone anyway...) My fondest memory from back there is probably the long summer nights when Sammy and I would settle down with hot pretzels and french fries and watch 'Nick at Night' reruns and oldies into the wee hours of the morning.

Well, there you have it. A taste of what it is that I see in my mind's eye when I think back to where we lived and speak of Oxford Court.

I wouldn't move back there for anything. But I think it will always be a place that stays in my heart.

Have a Splendiferous Shabbos everybody!

After all - it only comes once a week.

For Shani: Gigush...

2006-04-21T07:17:00.000+03:00

Woke up early. Mommy drove Eli, Brenda and me into Jeru. I showed them my new favoritest little art and crafting store. I went to work. They sent me to the post-office. I wasn't feeling so well. The nice lady in the post office caught me before I hit the floor. Needless to say, I left work early. Caught a bus Home and almost missed my stop - but the nice Chayelet woke me up. Shani brought me a beautiful red rose. I found out that someone's treasure left - I wonder what that means in the scheme of things...

Sammy drew a Whimsical Family Portrait during 'coloring time' with the Dibble. It's nice because each member of the mishpacha is wearing their signature color. (That was my contribution. I feel ever so useful.)

Isn't it cute?

The gals are gonna have a PJ night tonight. Even Michalie is coming - actually, she's bringing the movie.

Eli drew a 'blue eye' for me. It is a beautiful shade of cerulean. But, I think I will keep it to myself for now. I'm selfish like that.

Alright - it is time.

And thus the weekend begins...

"Roasty Toasty Princess..."

2006-04-18T19:57:00.000+03:00

Well, it's erev chag again and then my vacation is really over. Back to school, back to work, back to Jerusalem.

Figured I'd amuse you today with some cute shots of the Dibble that I got yesterday and a Calvin that always reminds me of him..

Well, there ya have it. Dibble in all of his maniacal glory.

Though cute when sleeping, when awake scary little monster he be...

Chag Sameach Everybody! Enjoy the last of your Matza!

(Sassy, guess what - Our date with Heather might have to wait. Supposedly, we're eating at some interesting person's house tonight...)

Ahem, Pancakes?

"The Dice Were Loaded From the Start..."

2006-04-18T08:55:00.000+03:00

Well, we DID tiyul today. Shui led us and we re-enacted the battle between David and Goliath. We climbed a mountain then walked in the ruins. We then climbed back down the mountain. At Tel Azeka I silently praised Mrs. Rosenberg for taking us on a trip there in Shana Aleph. I led the group to the caves. Shui and I tackled the darkness together and I was thrilled when I managed to find the hole that serves as the the entrance chamber to the tunnels. Afikei Nuts - Do you remember THE hole? About 3/4 of a foot in diameter on the floor of a cave through solid rock.) Well, a bunch of us went in and had a grand time. (Though, next time we go - we'll have to remember the tea lights to stick on the lighting shelves along the tunnels...)
Anyway, as you can see from the pictures (which are meant to speak for themselves) I had a very nice time today. I mean - it was a lot of listening and it DID get late... But, I really did know where we were going. I wasn't making it up. (Well, I sort of was - but then I realized I really DID know where we were and where we were supposed to be going...)

In addition, I spent all of my free time today listening to this one random song which I really like for some inexplicable reason. Truth of the matter is - the lyrics can only be described as 'cute' plus I like the beat.

I can't believe tomorrow night is Yom-Tov again.

At least I enjoyed my one free Pesach vacation day.

I think a shower is in order and then it's off to finish Rhapsody...

Always Coca-Cola...

2006-04-15T03:38:00.000+03:00

Happy Pesach 2006 Everybody!!!

The kid REALLY REALLY needs a good scrubbing...
Ora's Sand-Castle...
Me - Freddie n' da Dibble...
I'm Saving Brenda - no really!...

Have I mentioned recently how much I love the water? Well, I do.

Our day on the beach with the Yaffa Family was wonderfully entertaining.

From the waves to the jellyfish and even the seaweed in a red bathing suit.

We all enjoyed.

I'm glad we went.

Now Shabbos is coming - What better way to go into the day than with memories of hours in the sunshine and of splashing in the waves?

Have a good one everybody!

Kaflooey - Gezundtheit...

2006-03-31T22:50:00.000+03:00

Ok, time-lagged and sleepy I report relatively early on a Friday morning. I've been busy trying to clean my desktop and peeling veggies for umpteen different things. My hands smell like garlic, because I peeled not just a few cloves but an entire head of the aromatic stuff.

While I battled with the purifying agent, Mommy got the fish ready to be 'bagged' and cooked. It is a trifle disturbing, I must admit, to conduct a staring contest with these meals-to-be.

At this point the Dibble showed up in all of his Pajama'd glory and demanded Akiva. He then announced that for lack of anything better to do on Erev Shabbos - he was going to go play on the Kid's Basement Computer.

Mickey cat has been a nuisance all morning. First he was in the sink licking the faucet in an attempt to re-hydrate himself, he proceeded to take a shower (though that could be due to the fact that I turn the water on full power.) Annoyed at this turn of fate he sulked off to his newest hiding spot. Can you find him?

I finally managed to get my hands on the CD that has been circulating throughout my household upon which are saved a number of photos of our house on Oxford Court. I wouldn't move back there for anything. I love it here too much. But, every time I see pictures, I realize how much I miss it. Such a laid-back life with everything served to me on a silver platter. I can't decide how I would rather live. It is more free here and I am in charge of my own life - but I think it would be nice to have a vacation...

(Hopefully some pictures of the Polly-abode-from-abroad will be uploaded at some point in the near future. However, it is Erev Shabbos and I do have stuff to do...)

My Stomach...

2006-03-28T07:29:00.000+02:00

Digestion is an integral part of eating.

Freddie kept me amused today. Thank you Freddie.

Deborah finished her Dolphins! (Finally!!) MAZAL TOV!! Sh'koyach!! and I am SOOOO proud of you Partner...

And for your viewing pleasure I present:

Ze' Dolfinz - a' la Deborah...

I wish I could discipline myself and sit down and finish off some of the many projects that I've begun.

On that list; 2 counted-cross stitch canvases, blanket, my scarf, Ezri's scarf, numerous jewelry projects (earrings, bracelets, necklaces), pillows, scrapbooks, sock puppets, teddy bear clothes, skirts, kippot and more...

Someday I'll be inspired and finish them all.

Eventually.

I hope.

Purim Prizes and Cutie Pies...

2006-03-16T03:16:00.000+02:00

Whoa. Things went ever so quickly today. Costumes, Music, Chayalim, Prizes, Booths, Friends, Friendships and more...

Of course there were the ironies - but they seem to be the one constant thing that I can rely on in my life.

Tomorrow is back to routine - sort of... I mean, it's back to school and work for me.

Oh yeah, I got three phone-numbers that I have been trying to get for a loooong time :) AND a standing offer from somebody with a car to call if I ever decide to make time and go out on a tiyul.

Where this all leads - we shall see...

V'nahapoch Hu!!!

2006-03-14T19:25:00.000+02:00

I love this holiday to a certain extent. I mean, we were saved and things were happening and it's a happy time.

Anywho - today will be a 2 post day - how unusual...

I decided to put up some pics. of me in my gown. Mostly for Shosh and Becca - but partly for the poor souls in my office whom I have abandoned for the alcohol and parties... *wink wink nod nod.*

It was a whim. It won't happen again (well, for a very long time anyway.)

For the record, I am not impressed with my photographer's work. But sometimes, you've gotta work with what you've got. (Thanks Brenda, I really do appreciate it...)

Can you tell that the dress is messed up because we had to alter it and take it in like 2.5 sizes?

Hahaha!

I didn't think so...

I Wanna Go Upside-Down...

2006-02-17T19:32:00.000+02:00

This post is dedicated to a very close and very good friend who is on the other side of the world and that is by by definition - far far away from me.

We had two amazing years together (at least I think they were amazing...) In that time things were good, things were bad and some things were downright hilarious...

Remember the spring chicken, rummikub, the time difference with China, the 'boy' in our apartment, our bunkbed - with you on top and me on the bottom (I have that picture in my room and it never fails to make me smile), our rickety bunk-bed, fires, Teddy bears, omelettes, Marmite, music and sooo much more...???

I MISS YOU YONKLOADS!!!!

(And by the way, thanks for the pictures...)
I Miss my RJ

One of these days - G-d willing, I am going to go to Australia.

It looks so pretty and I know it'll be amazing - cause YOU are there!!

I LOVE YOU BECCA!!!

(And say hi to CheliBeli for me. You know, from LollyPolly...) :)

Shabbos is coming...
Pray for fruitcakes, pancakes or what-you-will...

Gumblops...

2006-02-12T07:53:00.000+02:00

Ok, quick intro...
This Shabbos our shul held its annual 'Tu B'shvat' kiddush.
We were asked to make a cake - and being the Polly Clan - we had to do something insane so as to keep up the 'family name.' Stam, as usual - we had to do something fun because if you are going to do something special then you might as well go all the way.

I present to you a collection of pictures taken to document the adverture upon which we embarked about 2.5 hours before Hadlakat Nerot...

So, at the same time that the cake was being created - we were frantically trying to cook for Shabbos... (I made a potato kugel and Freddie braided the Challot.)

Finally it was time to light. So we did and headed out to Shul. Shani was there (so I saw her for the first time in like 2 months.) I got to shmooze with Vivi and though Ora wasn't there (which was sad) I managed to have a good time. Friday night was an early night - though we did go on a walk and I even dragged my cloak out of the closet because the weather was perfect and I was SOOO in the mood.

Shabbos day dawned bright and at 6:00am when I woke up I decided to try to get to Shul on time (which I ultimately did.) Davening was amusing (because of Mussaf) and the Kiddush was really nice (though the cake was gone in under 5 minutes.)

The afternoon was quite boring. Sat with Shani in the circle, said "Hello" to the tall one who disappeared into the Spero's house after the Dibble. Walked out to Saba and Savta's house. Walked Home. And then, Shabbos was over.

I hate it when Shabbos goes away. Really, I do.

How we spent Motzash: Brenda made a cake for school, Daddy tried to pull off the Moonbeam's nose, Freddie "worked on" her Ben-T'chumi, Eli made 'pizza balls', Dibble suffered from thunder in his throat, Mommy helped everybody and I...

Well I spent my time wishing that somebody would read me a bedtime story.

All I wanted was a bed-time story and to fall asleep feeling warm and safe snuggled with my teddy.

Maybe someday I will have that privelege - until then, as the Dibble Kid sings,

Hamalach Hagoel Oti - ding ding...

(I hope he's keeping a special eye on me. I feel like I REALLY need it.)

Pampering My Romantic Side...

2006-02-10T18:45:00.000+02:00

(ALL CREDIT TO: George R.R. Martin - A Storm of Swords, Bantam Books, 2000.)

"My feather bed is deep and soft, and there I'll lay you down.
I'll dress you all in yellow silk and on your head a crown.
For you shall be my lady love, and I shall be your lord.
I'll always keep you warm and safe and guard you with my sword.
And how she smiled, And how she laughed the maiden of the tree.
She spun away and said to him no feather bed for me.
I'll wear a gown of golden leaves, and bind my hair with grass
But you can be my forest love, and me your forest lass."

And as sketchy as it seems -
I'm telling you.
I was born in the wrong century.

If you didn't understand the poem or my comment following it - please don't feel neglected.

I have included the end of this post especially for YOU!

Please allow me to present some pictures for your viewing pleasure - (Cherry Picking '05) -

Shabbos is coming...

The Makings of a Skirt... (Part 1)

2005-12-29T12:10:00.000+02:00

Skirt making is a generally unappreciated pastime. I mean, it used to be make fabric-make clothes-wear clothes. Then seamstresses or slaves or servants and nowadays most people just go out and shop. Basically - clothing today has no personality or originality. For this reason I started making my own skirts. Also, sewing my own skirts gives me the opportunity to have my clothes the way I like them. I can make them longer - I can alter them - whatever I want goes.

Today's project is that of the pink shimmery skirt that I will iy"H be wearing to my friend's wedding at 19:00 tonight...

(I am aiming for my usual - easy and comfortable yet elegant style wrap-skirt. Simplest project of all.)

First things first. Find the material (Note the cat. He becomes a nuisance at a later point in this broadcast...) Stage two - find a clean place to work. (Unfortunately my house is lacking in floorspace and even were there floorspace I would be hesitant to put my material on the floor... So, as you can see - I am going to 'make-do' and work on the too-small dining room table.) Spread out the fabric.
Step three, pin here and pin there. Pin the pattern to the fabric. But take care, don't pin yourself...
Next - CUTTING. First I would advise you to shake out the thing you just pinned and take a good look at it. If it's not pinned correctly and you just start cutting... Yeah, it could end up as a pretty sticky situation. So, shake and then if you are certain that everything is flat and lined up - cut, cut, cut...
Penultimate for now - cut out the 'waist band' and the 'strings' (or just the strings if you are too tired to do the waistband...) The last step for now is the 'preliminary secondary pinning' - (for this project I will need to double-fold ALL hems and edges in order to prevent fraying and to keep everything neat looking.) So, I need to pin both sides from waist to floor and the bottom hem as well.
It's looking good so far, dontcha think?
More later... (When I wake up) at which point we will go and meet the Sewing Machine.

I Knew it...

2005-12-02T19:53:00.000+02:00

Proof that things are NOT going my way.

I started this scarf last year when we went to Poland. I figured, I needed something to do with my hands and that Ezri needed a new scarf (or rather, he wanted one.)

I was so excited. I thought I had finally 'gotten it right' and that this time, I wouldn't cut the strings and leave hard little knots at the ends.
However, as things usually go when I am involved and feel like I am doing things right - Well, I was wrong.

It seems you are supposed to 'weave in the ends' as you go along and NOT at the end. Who knew? Certainly not me.

To rectify my mistake I am now completely unraveling the scarf that I have spent many hours working on. I do this with the hope that the end resut will be better than the original.

(Have you ever felt like the physical actions that you were going through completely echoed your mental and emotional state?)

Funyun Soup...

2005-11-19T00:30:00.000+02:00

I went to Lamed Hey with Mommy and Saba and Savta. It was early, it was good.

I got my favoritest breakfast there. Freshly fried shnitzels and the spaghetti with their 'special' sauce. Needless to say, I ate it on the way Home so as not to make my siblings jealous. (I think I made up for not eating last night, and you know what? It was waaaaaay better than what they had at that stuffy restaraunt. )

I baked defective 'crinkle cookies' - I call them defective because all of the powdered sugar dissappeared and they look like chocolate cookies with strep throat.

So, Shabbos is coming - I really really hope that it's a good one. There are people that I want to see, places that I want to go and things that I want to do. I hope I at least manage to do some of the stuff.

Have A Splendiferous Shabbos...

Upsherin...

2005-10-29T00:43:00.000+02:00

Ok, well - we left late but we still made it there on time.

Hung out with the cousins and it actually went pretty well.

It's been almost two years since all 16 of us grandkids were together. So, it was nice.

After the ceremony we shmoozed then headed
Home.

Shabbos is coming...

Before...

After...

Still Lacking Inspiration...

2005-10-25T00:55:00.000+02:00

Due to a technical writing error and lack of communication I have no deep and profound thoughts to share today - (aside from the sick thought that next time we walk to Aviv as we approach the 'people' that we should stop and chant outloud together "come on everybody, let's go meet the pansies!" (see Madagascar.) I have decided to share some pictures with you. They are from our Chol Hamoed trip to Gush Katif from last Pesach...

Me wif' Da Sunshiny Dibble (he's 'just a kid'.)

Deen-deeny!

Me and My Abba!

Me and Sammy

The Moon-beam/Sand-box

Shui, Dibble and Moonbeam...
(doesn't the Dibble look precious?!)

The Sights...

2005-10-19T16:20:00.000+02:00

This is the view that I woke up to this morning. Sammy agreed with me that it was beautiful. The camera can't capture the colors in their full glory - but imagine the hills dotted with exotic greenery and shadowed by a deep, angry grey coloured sea of clouds.

*Sigh* - I think the rainy season is almost upon us.

Good.

We need it.

Erev erev Rosh Hashana...

2005-10-03T05:55:00.000+03:00

Reflexology this morning. Learned the 'outer appendage skeleton' - Now I can not only stimulate the urinary tract through the foot but I can also ease pain in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles, help get lymph circulating (a little) and even help reduce excess sweating via the 'armpit spot' - fascinating, huh?

I caught the 416 at 13:20 and was Home by 14:00. Did nothing useful besides for making french fries for dinner. Convinced Daddy to give me the digital camcorder that has been sitting collecting dust in the closet for two years (a new toy to keep me entertained...) Mommy didn't get to sit much during dinner - she was very busy standing on the front porch and waiting for the delivery people... (speaking of which, where are my chocolates?!?!)

Tomorrow will be 'Cooking for Chag Day' YAY!

Though we did start a bit today.

Wanna see?

Now that's what I call Festival Spirit...

'Kodak Moment..."

2005-09-28T09:24:00.000+03:00

Yet another one of those "capture the moment and save it to memory" pics. LoL! Me, Mommy and Brenda sitting on a tank in Latrun and checking out all of the prep going on for some tekes or another - (of course I spent more time studying the 'who's than the 'what's... :)

Boy do I miss vacation time. I know that chag is right around the corner but still... what could be better than spending a day on a totally wacky tiyul with the family?!

For my Abba (to prove how much I appreciate everything that you do for me - I'm making your toaster famous!)

2005-08-02T04:30:00.000+03:00

Meet the newest addition to our family. The Toaster. Our Daddy's Pride and Joy. He doesn't talk back and is very helpful, he even makes toast. (To the man who is allergic - his best friend is his toaster...)

The First Day of August and I am Supremely Bored...

2005-08-01T21:45:00.000+03:00

OK - so here's how I figure it. At least I'm getting lots of sleep at night. I mean, usually in the summer (when one has nothing to do all day) one spends the day out finding stuff to do and then wastes all night watching movies and/or chilling with friends. However, sorely lacking in the available friends department and not having any money to go anywhere (nor interest in going...) I find myself wallowing in self-pity and boredom during the day and actually sleeping at night (though some of my pals have expressed concern and dismay...) If Milo ever thought he was in the Doldrums then BOY OH BOY was he wrong. I have found the plain of neverending endings. It's quite sad seeing as the summertime is supposed to be a time of rest, relaxation, freedom and general good-cheer. For me these three months are proving to be interminable and just plain old annoying. I don't even have things to look forward to seeing as all of our major exploring and vacationing has passed.

The only really exciting things coming up are my Grandparent's imminent ALIYAH and I am actually looking forward to taking an 'early morning' (around 10:00 or 11:00 a.m.) walk over to their house for pancakes. (Remember Savta - you promised! I know, not the first few days... but, I won't forget. heeheehee!)

Anywho - at least today I've accomplished something. I left the house! I went grocery shopping. I know, it isn't as glamorous as an outing should be, but, at least I got out. During my 'down-time' (in the house) I've been washing almost all of my stuffed animals in small batches. Drumnadrochit (who is basically new, and is too small to smell bad -yet-) has been quite disturbed by the proceedings. As her friends get 'wrung out' in the ultraviolent-spin-cycle she sits and waits hoping and wishing and praying that they will be okay...

On a totally different and hopeful note - The realtor called with news about a 2 bedroom apt. in Kiryat Moshe for 550 a month! YAYAYAY!!! (now he just has to call back and tell us when we can go and see it...) I hope it works out!

And on an even more up note - Women's Swim tonight at Tzora! YAHOO!!! (maybe soon I will REALLY fit into Sammy's shirts...)

For now I'm off to visit Amber... All roads lead there, so why not stop by?

Today is dedicated to my favorite little moo all the way from Thirsk, England. (Named after a little town on the shores of Loch Ness in Scotland...) Drumnadrochit!!!

a slightly sad story

2005-05-14T01:23:00.000+03:00

Ok, it's Erev Shabbos and as usual mad Shabbos prep is underway. We're also making lots of (extra) stuff for the kiddush tomorrow...

(I should've known it wasn't gonna end well when I cracked the egg and somehow it missed the bowl and landed on the cat's head...)

Of course, I am the 'official baker' - however, I don't think that the cake really wanted to be baked... You see, after it expanded out of it's pan and the ears got burnt then it cracked in the middle and it's legs fell off - that's when I tried to remedy the situation with some frosting. (suffice it to say - that was a 'no go.')

His eyes ran into his ears and then - he died.

His wake will be held tonight after dinner (around desert time) after which we will inter him to his final resting place - Avi Chai's stomach...

yeah - that's my sad story for today.

Today I learned something important: When turning off a mixer, DO NOT a. attempt to stop the beaters with your hands or b. lift the mixer before it has come to a complete stop.

YOM HAATZMAUT!

2005-05-13T09:29:00.000+03:00

YAY! my first ever real post with a point!

Well, today as you know was Yom Haatzmaut. (or as my little cousin explained it to me, "today is Israel's 57th birthday, Israel is getting old...")

The morning started off on a patriotic note - my mom made blue pancakes for breakfast (of course we ate them with powdered sugar.) then we made plans to go to the Preiser's House...

Anyway to make the story short - we celebrated in the true Israeli style. After driving to Neve Alizah in the Shomron in a car boasting both an Israeli Flag and a "We're With Gush Katif" flag, we arrived at my cousin's house and had a 'proper' BBQ.

It was really nice. (that sounds like a first grade sentence - but it sums up the event very well and succinctly.)

Highlights of the trip -
1. I got my book back from Chaim (after chasing him into his room, whacking him with his pillow and threating to threaten him with his shoe.)
2. I convinced Shui to perform a science experiment to find out, just how many pieces of popcorn a 13 year old boy can actually shove into his mouth at one time. (something like 25 - but then again, he has a pretty big mouth...) ;)
AND last but not least -
3. Listening to Savta tell (for the GaJillionth time) all the funny stories of "Stupid things that my Mom and my Aunt have done..."

Today i Learned something important: If it's not a tomato plant, then it won't grow tomatos.

Look! i found friends!!!

The mUshpacha! hehehe! that's us... i'm just having fun with all this waaay cool tech-stuff. (i'm actually computer illiterate... lol!)