tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49047006057878076452024-02-20T19:58:29.264-08:00Catch Joy As it Flies ByJoeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.comBlogger251125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-62753486490842032072020-08-16T06:44:00.017-07:002020-08-16T06:52:17.060-07:00How Did I Get HERE?<p>Ummmm - has it really been 4 years?? 4 years since I blogged? Ok - 3 years and 10ish+ months. A lot has happened in 3 years and 10ish months. For starters? Like - COLLEGE? Not 1 - but TWO kids?! Sit with THAT!</p><p>So, I was lying awake last night. That is a rare thing with me since I discovered CBD oil (more on THAT later!) but it happens. You should know that I consider myself semi-retired as I cut certain strength and conditioning classes out of my schedule a year ago. Specifically, I cut out all evening classes. What a feeling of freedom to finish up the morning schedule of coaching and know I am DONE for the day. It's heaven. Don't get me wrong. I love coaching. But having to "go back to work" every evening often felt heavy and now I am light!</p><p>You may recall I run a small all women's gym out of my house. In fact, I celebrated my FIFTEENTH anniversary in business on August 1st! In March - due to Covid - I was forced to shut down. And then Zoom happened. Need I say more? I'm fairly certain, I will not open in person again. Seriously, my girls LOVE Zoom! I see no more snow days in my future!</p><p>At any rate - as I lay awake last night, a thought came to me. I should start blogging again. I have the time! I can't be sure I will get back into blogging regularly, but here I am today!</p><p>So yea - in 3 years and 10ish+ months, my children grew up. They are 21, 19 & 18. When did THAT happen?? Ummmm - 3 years and 10ish+ months! Next Monday there will only be 3 of us living in this house. I am looking forward to cool fall days as this has been the hottest summer I can remember. I am looking forward to hoeing out my house after 5 adults lived here since March. I am looking forward to productive days that include hiking with Daisy Mae, coffee on the front porch wrapped in a blanket, fires at 3pm (more on THAT later), reading (oh wait, that never stopped), cooking healthier, doing some painting and oh, so much more! </p><p>Ain't semi-retirement GREAT!? </p><p>Ok - so today I dipped my toe back into the Catch Joy As It Flies By water and we will see how this goes. In the meantime? You MUST read <b>One For the Blackbird, One for the Crow</b> by Olivia Hawker. </p><p>And you MUST make this recipe. It's divine.</p><p><span face="" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; font-weight: bold;">Lucia's Melanzana in Padedda</span><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;"> (no clue who Lucia is!)</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">3 pounds medium eggplants</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">About 2 tablespoons kosher salt</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">1/2-3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, more if eggplant is not salted</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Lucia’s Tomato Sauce, recipe below</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">About 1½ tablespoons grated Parmigiano Reggiano</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Handful of basil leaves, washed and spun dry</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">To salt eggplant, with a vegetable peeler, peel eggplants and slice crosswise into rounds 1/4-1/2 vinch thick. Arrange a layer in a large colander and sprinkle lightly with salt; repeat layering and salting until all rounds are salted. Weight them with a plate or inverted pot lid and set aside for 1 hour. Then rinse slices and, taking a few slices in your hand at a time, squeeze out the excess liquid like a sponge, repeating until all slices are dry. </span><span face="" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; font-weight: bold;">(I NEVER DO THIS SALTING PART!!!!)</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">To fry eggplant, heat 1 or 2 large nonstick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillets over moderate-high heat. Add about 1½ tablespoons of oil to each and swirl to coat. When oil is hot and shimmering, but not smoking, arrange a single layer of eggplant slices in each pan. Cover and cook until the underside is golden, 3-5 minutes; turn slices with a spatula, drizzle in additional oil as necessary, and continue cooking, shifting slices around occasionally until golden and tender, 3-4 minutes longer. Remove slices as they are done onto a large platter and set aside to cool. Repeat until all eggplant has been fried.</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">To assemble, spoon about ½ cup of the tomato sauce into the bottom of a 11- or 12-inch flameproof casserole or skillet. Arrange a layer of eggplant slices over the sauce and spread these with about ¼ cup tomato sauce. Sprinkle lightly with Parmigiano and scatter torn basil leaves on top (roughly 2 inches apart). Repeat, building up 4 or 5 layers until all the eggplant is used. Spread top with ½ cup tomato sauce, a final sprinkling of Parmigiano and basil leaves. (The casserole can be assembled at this point up to a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, letting come to room temperature 3 hours before the final cooking.)</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Cover and cook casserole over low heat, pressing eggplant down occasionally with a spatula, for about 15-20 minutes, until oil begins to bubble up along the sides. Do not be tempted to rush the process by turning up the heat. Uncover and continue cooking about 10 minutes longer. The casserole should be tender and melting, with spots of oil bubbling on the top. Serve hot or at room temperature. Serves 6.</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Lucia LoPresti’s marinara sauce makes a perfect sauce for pasta and a fine base for many dishes, from stuffed peppers to stews.</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px; font-weight: bold;">LUCIA’S TOMATO SAUCE</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">1/2 large yellow onion, chopped, about ¾ cup</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">2 cloves garlic, minced</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">1/8-1/4 teaspoon hot pepper flakes, optional</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">28-ounce can crushed tomatoes or drained whole peeled plum tomatoes</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">1/4-1/2 teaspoon sugar</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Pour olive oil into a large skillet and stir in onion. Over medium-low heat, saute onion until golden, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and saute until it just starts to color. Add pepper flakes, if desired (they will add just a hint of appetizing heat), stirring them into the oil to release their flavor. Add tomatoes. (If using whole tomatoes, break them up with the edge of a kitchen spoon.)</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;" /><span face="" style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.199999809265137px;">Bring to a boil over high heat, then turn flame down to medium; simmer until oil rises to the top and separates from the sauce, 15-20 minutes. Stir in sugar to taste, to balance flavors. Makes about 2½ cups with crushed tomatoes, 1¾-2 cups with whole peeled plum tomatoes.</span></p><p><span face="" style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: #6ed8dd; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">So there you have it. First post in </span></span>3 years and 10ish+ months. Kinda catching a wisp of joy being back here! Let's see where this part of my journey goes. </p><p> </p><p><br /></p>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-59836378386541556222017-01-31T11:38:00.002-08:002017-01-31T11:38:50.984-08:00MY LAND OF THE FREE<span style="font-size: large;">So about 10 weeks ago, my beloved 14 (15 in 10 days) year old daughter proclaimed she is now a vegetarian. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMDKn15qzIOjDEidbw8xvkKTXVmvC8TWFCYruDKEWdep73XOh30bldQcIFY7EJLrT-Ajf-XHmEQczJeBT5k_LObi3rszP79N35TKuOIkFKdcu-rHPBiVcHXZVSJCv51bbrOQ4QAO6e5dza/s1600/laughing-emoji.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMDKn15qzIOjDEidbw8xvkKTXVmvC8TWFCYruDKEWdep73XOh30bldQcIFY7EJLrT-Ajf-XHmEQczJeBT5k_LObi3rszP79N35TKuOIkFKdcu-rHPBiVcHXZVSJCv51bbrOQ4QAO6e5dza/s320/laughing-emoji.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">RIGHT???? Her and about 200 hundred other teenage girls in her school (as verified by her brother). </span><span style="font-size: large;">(She only ever eats chicken. No red meat, no seafood, no "the other white meat")</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I just ignored the whole thing and carried on with my daily meal preparations - you know - moi? the freaking chef for </span><span style="font-size: large;">gluten-free, dairy-free, red meat-free & the other white meat-free</span><span style="font-size: large;"> <strike>husband</strike> family members... </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yea - just what I want is to now be cooking <i>VEGETARIAN</i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Six weeks go by and this darn kid is still at it! Picking at her broccoli every night...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">UGHHHHH - so I'm now starting to <strike>swear</strike> become concerned. Is she going anorexic on me??? Is this about staying "thin"? Why is she only eating broccoli?? Does she look skinny? Is she getting enough nutrition?? And...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">wait a minute? Did she just create a vegetarian PINTEREST board???? O-M-G - I am F**ked.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Soooooooo - Chef Tel here is NOW creating vegetarian meals TOO. I mean - she freaking eliminated a whole food group and is incapable of substituting it herself. Who's LEFT to do the dirty work lest she wastes away??? </span><span style="font-size: large;">I DID just tell you I </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">already</span></i><span style="font-size: large;"> do </span><span style="font-size: large;">gluten-free, dairy-free, red meat-free & the other white meat-free,</span><span style="font-size: large;"> right?? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I mean what's another ****-free?? Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I spoke with some clients who were creative in this area due to the same girl thang - teenage girl goes vegetarian...TEN YEARS AGO...unfortunately, their experience was that their vegetarians STAYED that way. Do you see what's going on here? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was forced to remove the resistance and start Pinning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway - so I have been at it for about 3 weeks now. I gave into it and worked hard to involve her in the recipe choosing, grocery shopping, prep and tasting. Luckily - most leftovers will be <strike>wolfed</strike> eaten by her </span><span style="font-size: large;">gluten-free, dairy-free, red meat-free, the other white meat-free father.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are recipes I will never make again and others that were very good. The good news is - she's not only free of any meat/seafood/poultry product but she is also food inhibited-free! Yes - she has ventured to beans and lentils and tofu for starters. She's eating a better variety of vegetables like cabbage and sugar snap peas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's work. Definitely work. But I, myself, like really flavorful food and so I benefit too. I refuse to make anything that is bland and boring. If I'm going thru the trouble to shop and prep a vegetarian meal, it better have flavor! Hence - the recipe trash can!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">At any rate - there's the JOY. She has left her food comfort zone, she is eating alternate protein, I am enjoying the planning/prep time with her and I'm getting great tasting food! <strike>But I AM tired, a little. LOL</strike>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's the JOY and here's the reason for this post. A recipe that needs sharing. It was less work than it looks although it did take an hour, start to finish, as I of course had to make the vegetarian version as well as the </span><span style="font-size: large;">gluten-free, dairy-free, red meat-free, the other white meat-free, ground chicken version. But it was worth it and the leftover chicken mixture makes a GREAT "bowl" - the other trending food lately. Many thanks to my inspiring, motivating niece Kelly, for turning me on!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here it is! So YUM!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">PALEO EGG ROLLS </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 pound ground pork (or chicken, turkey, or beef - pasture raised/organic when possible) </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 teaspoon ground ginger </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 teaspoon <span style="color: #0000ee;">garlic sea salt blend (I used garlic powder and a bit of salt)<br />
</span>3 tablespoons <span style="color: #0000ee;">coconut amigos (You could use soy sauce)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup shredded, diced carrots (I bought them shredded a bag - GENIUS!)<br />
2 cups shredded, diced cabbage<br />
Optional: 1⁄2 teaspoon <span style="color: #0000ee;">Chinese Five Spice </span>(omit for AIP)
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<span style="font-weight: 700;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For Dipping Sauce
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1⁄4 teaspoon <span style="color: #0000ee;">Sriracha </span>(omit for AIP)
1⁄4 teaspoon hot mustard (omit for AIP)<br />
2 tablespoons <span style="color: #0000ee;">coconut amigos or soy sauce</span><br />
1.5 teaspoons <span style="color: #0000ee;">coconut palm sugar (I used honey and also used white sugar another time)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1⁄2 teaspoon <span style="color: #0000ee;">apple cider vinegar </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: 700;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Instructions
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<ol style="list-style-type: decimal;">
<li>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brown ground pork/chicken etc. in a large skillet with seasonings (garlic salt, aminos, five spice, and</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ginger). (I did this separately and also made a vegetarian version)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add carrots and cabbage once pork starts losing its pink color. (I made veggies separate)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cook ingredients until meat is cooked through and veggies are softened.
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remove filling from heat.
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now take one wrapper and spoon about a tablespoon of the mixture into the center</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you start rolling the wrapper, tuck the corners into the ends so that the egg roll is closed from all angles.
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</li>
<li>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Repeat until all wrappers are filled – if you have leftover meat mixture you can use it to fill lettuce leaves or make
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">more wrappers.
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</li>
<li>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Heat your avocado oil (I used Olive oil) in a large skillet over relatively high heat (not the highest) – if your oil is not hot enough, the egg rolls may stick to the pan.</span><br />
</li>
<li>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fry 3-4 at a time so that you may keep a close watch on them...you will want to brown all sides in the skillet.
</span><br />
</li>
<li>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remove from heat once your egg rolls are nicely browned and repeat with the remaining egg rolls </span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 12. For Dipping Sauce, combine all ingredients and get dipping’.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: large;">ENJOY - my friends! I will carry on - sigh.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd68Pnyxh1kyJe9QcJqNFgl_w_RiU2fMLqBlzhR6zh-bAXmJrk_zsg8i0j47xElHeDLH9AFkGb_TnKcKQkYhFFmo9iFdo63n356e3HPIR8cHYJqkiAiM85LyHgCcJ7bJUkt83VRlJBlxlQ/s1600/image1+copy+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="89" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd68Pnyxh1kyJe9QcJqNFgl_w_RiU2fMLqBlzhR6zh-bAXmJrk_zsg8i0j47xElHeDLH9AFkGb_TnKcKQkYhFFmo9iFdo63n356e3HPIR8cHYJqkiAiM85LyHgCcJ7bJUkt83VRlJBlxlQ/s320/image1+copy+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-50021927366060683552016-11-15T15:35:00.002-08:002016-11-15T15:35:18.704-08:00NAGGING AT ME<span style="font-size: large;">So yesterday I was driving through downtown of a nearby town I frequent. I was on the phone with my bestie from Florida and I drove by this amazing sight. I told her about it and she told me to stop and take a photo. But I JUST couldn't walk and chew gum at the same time, i.e. - talk on the phone, turn the car around, park and snap a shot. OY.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It bothered me all evening and I woke up determined to drive back and get the shot. Rain or no rain. I knew it wouldn't be the same because the sun was out the day before and it was a whole different glow, but I went anyway. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjwg70YC3vgWl04O3bwGVo0PAf2NoIDR8c3bhSEQtvRsr3O25YTU4un9Fi5sxq4IrIGxmLJffWTW_h5dC870jXNMkkOPEU6QbKf9ovdFaVBnrjjOxExwiMn8gD-ifOCIBPJukEQMoSOqz/s1600/image2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjwg70YC3vgWl04O3bwGVo0PAf2NoIDR8c3bhSEQtvRsr3O25YTU4un9Fi5sxq4IrIGxmLJffWTW_h5dC870jXNMkkOPEU6QbKf9ovdFaVBnrjjOxExwiMn8gD-ifOCIBPJukEQMoSOqz/s640/image2.JPG" width="371" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Not exactly what I wanted to portray but it was pretty. And next year - I will know! And lie in wait! Those leaves on the ground were literally GLOWING neon gold yesterday. Live and learn...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> And yes - I still caught JOY on Day 54.</span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-22406753678596687052016-11-14T13:33:00.002-08:002016-11-14T13:33:56.169-08:00THE SIMPLICITY OF JOY<span style="font-size: large;">Is there anything more JOYful than starting your day with a 4 mile hike in the woods with your dog and your bestie and ending with a Mexican meal out with your - soon to be 15 year old daughter - who actually <i>wants</i> to be with you? NOTHING! Day 52 of JOY!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today, I was clearing my desk of the mountains of crap that accumulates there and unearthed this little gem that I forgot I retrieved from my car a few weeks ago.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMXKJqnHKid47N9h8haGH3e16h4iFTFZuCUOl4vVzRnEJ2rk44DOoWrEKEFW4xqZBwTV9qxZJgIwytwqr8ks62U34ET-i-fZcTJcXu4iHfUtNUKhbaEHpsV7hQoEfR7wg98ePIiIhf50o/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZMXKJqnHKid47N9h8haGH3e16h4iFTFZuCUOl4vVzRnEJ2rk44DOoWrEKEFW4xqZBwTV9qxZJgIwytwqr8ks62U34ET-i-fZcTJcXu4iHfUtNUKhbaEHpsV7hQoEfR7wg98ePIiIhf50o/s400/image1.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is a clam shell my daughter painted. Well - she used markers. But the colors! <i>My</i> colors!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DQObA5IRCdIhI41iwa51vFNeh7bhnIyUOdPgsEKUUM-LkRe3wvkOjXyD7tMqrZmekbpc89x08UgnSYr_3ppijCrt2p_EIf3HPTmUwVmQAa9irq7XBYpXsbk2doPBFxiO-IRPyZRIi4wb/s1600/funky-pink-heart.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DQObA5IRCdIhI41iwa51vFNeh7bhnIyUOdPgsEKUUM-LkRe3wvkOjXyD7tMqrZmekbpc89x08UgnSYr_3ppijCrt2p_EIf3HPTmUwVmQAa9irq7XBYpXsbk2doPBFxiO-IRPyZRIi4wb/s200/funky-pink-heart.png" width="169" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"> THIS!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So much so that I displayed it right behind my keyboard so I could feast my eyes on it everyday.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGFvIRQmM-RIILTsDNBUPCQH_BxpCSq4hwIlthCFlg9XEdEFdQNCxVGMS9CPJl67KWTVsgewez1v-8IAyVIiEIosgeWjP0dc4y2DKYuU8nqs00sgMQT4ogVQDaltsetbYRoSW2GoFxaZvQ/s1600/image1+copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGFvIRQmM-RIILTsDNBUPCQH_BxpCSq4hwIlthCFlg9XEdEFdQNCxVGMS9CPJl67KWTVsgewez1v-8IAyVIiEIosgeWjP0dc4y2DKYuU8nqs00sgMQT4ogVQDaltsetbYRoSW2GoFxaZvQ/s320/image1+copy.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day 53 of JOY. So simple...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxrWhSogHzTLyzX5MHiRQDLamE4TEs1LES3qX6MtoZj3zN6qh5gStIAmC6AL6_tCxQUqle7AOlt9VV43pj72xYxd0Bqt286N2S1TP7RNZnlx90TnPSaY0AFBkhdAgUQaxs8cQJ2sSyDXIa/s1600/IMG_1945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxrWhSogHzTLyzX5MHiRQDLamE4TEs1LES3qX6MtoZj3zN6qh5gStIAmC6AL6_tCxQUqle7AOlt9VV43pj72xYxd0Bqt286N2S1TP7RNZnlx90TnPSaY0AFBkhdAgUQaxs8cQJ2sSyDXIa/s200/IMG_1945.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-35624205787556630312016-11-12T12:01:00.002-08:002016-11-12T12:01:50.781-08:00IT'S BEEN A CRAZY ASS WEEK!<span style="font-size: large;">Oh boy. I'm losing it. I missed Day 47</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">and Day 48</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">and Day 49</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">and Day FIFTY!!!! - That's the halfway point! Today is Day 51. Well - it<i> has</i> been difficult to move my rear into gear and post. I admit. I had to analyze that and ask myself why. The answer is that I love to blog. I love to write. But it doesn't give me great JOY to just blurb a JOYful moment and move on. But I also take hours to fine tune a TRUE blog post and I don't have time for that everyday. It's a quandary. But I will continue with my 100 Days of JOY commitment - albeit, MY way, LOL.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway - so Day 47 was election day. I went into it with great JOY knowing my candidate would win. And she did - Hillary Clinton won the popular vote! By more than a million votes! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But alas - this country's system is not to elect by popular vote but by electoral vote. Stupid. Yes - I said it. I have NEVER been a fan of the electoral vote. I understand why it's in place but that doesn't mean I have to agree with it's premise. And quite frankly, ME don't give a shit if you disagree with ME. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">AND YES I WOULD FEEL THE SAME WAY IF THE "OTHER" CANDIDATE WON THE POPULAR VOTE BUT LOST THE RACE. Maybe I wouldn't have been so SAD because obviously, my gal would have "won", but I would still disagree with the electoral college. I know you don't believe me but who cares. I know...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So where <i>was</i> the JOY on election day? I voted and I took my kids to breakfast. First thing we saw when we walked into the restaurant. Haaaaaaa.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZfi54kU8-_9EDTEtXOqBUbXpZizB-KKw0dtqvW8qYCz_z2EfpaBX8qZ3cYSm9_3UBp09BBNjjwq9Q96CzjcOSa3aiGuhyphenhyphenvFIIoQXbfMejZM2iyCENRbHFi-p45tVoG2HtbaFXFwV2BOJ/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZfi54kU8-_9EDTEtXOqBUbXpZizB-KKw0dtqvW8qYCz_z2EfpaBX8qZ3cYSm9_3UBp09BBNjjwq9Q96CzjcOSa3aiGuhyphenhyphenvFIIoQXbfMejZM2iyCENRbHFi-p45tVoG2HtbaFXFwV2BOJ/s400/image1.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What??? It's not like I was the one who posted it there! Yesh - so sensitive...haaaaaa!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway - I love sitting around a table eating breakfast with them. I made them put their phones away and visit with their mom, I laughed with them, <strike>made fun of Donald Trump with them</strike>, ate delicious food with them - it was an hour of JOY in an otherwise soon to be JOYless day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But you know what? I was over it by 7AM on Day 48. The man I think is an idiot is now the president of the United States and life goes on. I picked my sorrowful ass off the couch and made my way up the stairs into the gym and kicked that sorrowful ass big time. I had an 8AM class to train and I was NOT going to be a pouty, miserable, bitchy "loser". I went in smiling and optimistic and then I kicked THEIR ass! That's one way to get it out! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What was JOYful on Day 48? I'll tell you what. That I was able to turn it around and just be happy to be alive. To be happy to have the opportunity to buckle in and watch the show for the next 4 years. To be happy to mentor those that were fearful, devastated, unhappy, pissed, shocked - I went into the election, positive there were more of us than "them" and I was right. I still believe he is an inhumane, socially inept and unprepared idiot but for me - what we sow at home is what counts. And I know I can sow optimism with my family, my clients, my friends. Is it easy? Not always. But if I could feel this way at 7AM on the morning after a shocking election? I'm good and that's JOYful. Day 48 of JOY. Bada BING!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day 49. Welllll - my 3 <strike>little pigs</strike> teens had the homecoming dance at their high school. My daughter had friends over and there's nothing like a gaggle of girls playing dress up for real life! I caught <i>that</i> JOY on Day 49.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day 50 was very JOYful. Can you believe my daughter has never been to Costco? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Does that mean I haven't stepped foot in a warehouse, big box store in over 17 years? Ummm - actually? Yes...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well - she was mesmerized. And the fact that she is so much fun anyway, made it such a great day walking the aisles <strike>for 3 hours</strike> of "stuff". She couldn't believe her eyes! And much to my surprise, I found some really worthy deals and wondered why I had been paying full price for <i>a lot</i> of groceries for all these years. Back in the day...I went regularly and just purchased specific items I knew were a great deal. I took note as we journeyed through the place and I WILL be back. Now my boys are intrigued! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And here's a great thing - did you know the Costco brand (Kirkland, I believe) of ice cream is made by Haagen Dazs, the wine is Kendall Jackson and the vodka is Belvedere? I'm told it's true because someone who knows someone who works there declared it's true! Take it for what it's worth, people! Decide for yourself! After writing this last paragraph, I decided to google it myself. Hmmmm - check this out: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.winespectator.com/blogs/show/id/51094">http://www.winespectator.com/blogs/show/id/51094</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway - the JOY didn't end there on Day 50.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Later that evening I found myself alone in front of the fire sipping on a nice, icy martini - opting to skip the volleyball and football games that my family went to. It was a Hallmark Christmas movie night for <i>me</i>, baby!!! But then a text came in from a bestie who wanted to meet for a drink and I was like - yea! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnl-y8pe69RmW16INxZh8qcyiKBcjbVyjKjcf6jq26TkI-PyGLYu5mA_Rj0y5BlCbN60ZuEiuIS_fwuzBfX30EfUAY9BCxwani-70d_-3F-ff_jB_mjlYoQVpOYgNVxjk8Jr3j7bZ1SKF/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnl-y8pe69RmW16INxZh8qcyiKBcjbVyjKjcf6jq26TkI-PyGLYu5mA_Rj0y5BlCbN60ZuEiuIS_fwuzBfX30EfUAY9BCxwani-70d_-3F-ff_jB_mjlYoQVpOYgNVxjk8Jr3j7bZ1SKF/s400/image1.JPG" width="220" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Meet here, baby!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, with holiday music as the background, in front of my fire, two BFF girlfriends had an unexpectedly JOYful evening, catching up and toasting to awesome, carefree </span><strike>lives</strike><span style="font-size: large;"> evenings. That was Day 50 JOY. Does it get any better than that?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here I am on Day 51 - the first day of the last half of 100 days of JOY. (Say <i>that</i> 5 times fast). Sometimes you just need a free day with no obligations and that's just what I am experiencing. In fact - I'm at a bit of a loss as to what to do with my free afternoon. Haaaaa - KIDDING! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yea - that's the JOY of Day 51. FREEDOM!</span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-55219473848691315522016-11-07T12:39:00.002-08:002016-11-07T12:39:55.204-08:00OOOPSY<span style="font-size: large;">Can you say - DISTRACTED? Not only have I not posted since last Wednesday which is Day 41, Day 42, 43, 44 & Day 45, I didn't even recall that I needed to post. Yea - I caught JOY - trust me. There were some wisps on each day. LOL. But I'm not going backwards cuzzzzzzz - this is MY blog. I make the rules! Yup - I'm cheating.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But seriously - is this election a drag or WHAT??? I can't watch the news, I can't look at my newsfeed on Facebook; I just want it to go away! But that is so not happening. When Hillary wins? </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvi7Y9rngffbouSKcxSyhnn8P6ZL6RrYzoqR5ofve7R2FJUm57gQQiR5sclAeE6MPssJNUQ4eEIgCFPnLXCXjPul9tlGoPlPZYOZv-Fc90nDjlhMWKa62mxohokQUWDOp5qMCgDK9tk_UD/s1600/laughing-bonobo-crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvi7Y9rngffbouSKcxSyhnn8P6ZL6RrYzoqR5ofve7R2FJUm57gQQiR5sclAeE6MPssJNUQ4eEIgCFPnLXCXjPul9tlGoPlPZYOZv-Fc90nDjlhMWKa62mxohokQUWDOp5qMCgDK9tk_UD/s400/laughing-bonobo-crop.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So yea - that's JOY on Day 46. THAT thought...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnaKkmo9t37sBth3hH9wtePjEv4LDUeLqvET3U0L9uT4A7Jv8RxhsxSIdl2oYhJTZdHSQuhLOQ9Gg6y_2JKcD9fYbWKdzu4OqsiTPusi9gj5DpTQHrBhyBGrBPr3Rv5HXzs_C9jeXbuXl/s1600/believe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnaKkmo9t37sBth3hH9wtePjEv4LDUeLqvET3U0L9uT4A7Jv8RxhsxSIdl2oYhJTZdHSQuhLOQ9Gg6y_2JKcD9fYbWKdzu4OqsiTPusi9gj5DpTQHrBhyBGrBPr3Rv5HXzs_C9jeXbuXl/s200/believe2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-30514501118003467592016-11-02T18:24:00.000-07:002016-11-02T18:24:28.988-07:00COMPARISON IS NOT ALWAYS THE THIEF OF JOY!<span style="font-size: large;">I saved $481/year on my car insurance today. What-is-UP-with-THAT???</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have literally NEVER insurance shopped until my son got his Learner's Permit. When my insurance company quoted me almost $3000 to insure him when he gets his license? I went ballistic. I mean - I get it. Teenage driver? Yea - I get it. But that's just INSANE. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first company I priced was even higher! The second - dramatically lower - relatively speaking. The 3rd company? OMG - they wanted $4553 to insure him! A two car, 3 driver family! $4553. How is there such disparity???</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsXMs3WpyKYTlGqGf26JDdAVOfo2ZrjC4hZ-KJi-mLLfSRKtzCG2vVEU1WBgNrhsXFbH5DjfwVGFjXbr9slrH3BxTM2mgyjmSQ8fUIu5ZXKrGt7NCWuPQTCU5jbTgHW1jUC1oxsPKa0QJ/s1600/money+burning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsXMs3WpyKYTlGqGf26JDdAVOfo2ZrjC4hZ-KJi-mLLfSRKtzCG2vVEU1WBgNrhsXFbH5DjfwVGFjXbr9slrH3BxTM2mgyjmSQ8fUIu5ZXKrGt7NCWuPQTCU5jbTgHW1jUC1oxsPKa0QJ/s400/money+burning.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">SERIOUSLY????</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then yesterday - I stumbled on a company while price comparing on some on-line thingy site and................they cut my car insurance by $481 and quoted adding my son for another $800. I do not need to look further. I'll let you know - if in 3 months when he gets his license - I get what I was quoted (or close) or I get taken for a ride. In the mean time? 481 dollars BABY!!!! Joy on Day 41!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInyBCDH4tZ-1TNaOWFFELyPYjGUg0k13F3yClIS3s0rKGPb6U1cQE7_rNDD7KGKBNqBc-Y17UK8NAWGyyhjJb-uk0D6eOpRdzAgmow1zHInOEiuDshv9Ev0rFvWGS3oiroVAfz9EOT0zQ/s1600/catchbird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInyBCDH4tZ-1TNaOWFFELyPYjGUg0k13F3yClIS3s0rKGPb6U1cQE7_rNDD7KGKBNqBc-Y17UK8NAWGyyhjJb-uk0D6eOpRdzAgmow1zHInOEiuDshv9Ev0rFvWGS3oiroVAfz9EOT0zQ/s200/catchbird.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-28171438525741627782016-11-02T18:10:00.000-07:002016-11-02T18:10:45.634-07:00FREE CHICKEN - I ROCK!<span style="font-size: large;">Damn! Missed Day 40! But I didn't miss JOY on Day 40. I went to the "store" with my $10 coupon and got a free chicken! ANDDDDD - I got my <i>legal</i> senior discount. How about THAT?! I was legally a senior and I saved $5! So I saved $10 + $5 + a $4.99 rotisserie chicken. That's 20 bucks! I was gooddddd on Day 40 of JOY. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4l8unvWvxxGExx1iAPuNOAV5fohjt-Ee3TE5-aGh_7gD_33hD7vKUum9ofRVBLF3bC7FhNpfxZgRkBdyHiuP-zY8jFF3sUXXfQH5W1jm6qVAIHkJ9867aB2l_1riKgOUtE6e_349UYFdB/s1600/IMG_3450-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4l8unvWvxxGExx1iAPuNOAV5fohjt-Ee3TE5-aGh_7gD_33hD7vKUum9ofRVBLF3bC7FhNpfxZgRkBdyHiuP-zY8jFF3sUXXfQH5W1jm6qVAIHkJ9867aB2l_1riKgOUtE6e_349UYFdB/s200/IMG_3450-001.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-74242512274549956402016-10-31T18:58:00.001-07:002016-10-31T18:58:29.224-07:00IT'S A MIRACLEI don't even need to say a word...<div><br></div><div><img id="id_7f77_d9c2_3911_5212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjmxPCDybfo2Iv-7sbKmo2JWy06giMNqyGJ2ApDrpptjg5ZgPM6y2eiM5qIvIJO94MM27WqYY8mkW3oZ8KiNcwfP3MsPHdTADNON4RNjOVKPW8rP4v1LJQjz0JbHNyMcxSaGjkI2HmmI0/" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 353px; height: auto;"> Day 39 of JOY. Such a gift!<br></div>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-25676359105254437102016-10-30T18:51:00.000-07:002016-10-30T18:51:00.419-07:00All Hallow's Eve!<span style="font-size: large;">I always thought All Hallow's Eve was tonight. You know - MISCHIEF NIGHT! The night <i>before</i> Halloween? Apparently, I am wrong (a rarity - LOL!) See below:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Halloween or Hallowe'en (a contraction of </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">All Hallows</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">' Evening), also known as Allhalloween, </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">All Hallows</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">' </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Eve</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">, or </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">All</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> Saints' </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Eve</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">, is a celebration observed in a number of countries on 31 October, the </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">eve</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> of the Western Christian feast of </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">All Hallows</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">' Day.</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Growing up Catholic I should know this. The night before All Saint's Day. Halloween is <i>always</i> the night before All Saint's Day (which is apparently All Hallow's Day) and I will never forget having to go to church that evening <i>after</i> Halloween be</span></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">cause my pockets were always filled with goodies </span>collected the night before and that entertained me during mass.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Anyway - lesson learned at age 59 years 4 months old.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Anyhoo - every year we carve a bunch of pumpkins. We spend a whole evening as a family carving away and <strike>drinking rum ciders</strike> roasting pumpkin seeds and creating masterpieces. THIS year we could NOT find a span of time where all 5 of us could be together. 3 Teenagers in the house is INSANE! Sports, jobs, social engagements...the list is endless and I finally <i>shoved</i> 2 hours into our Sunday late morning schedule and made everyone create masterpieces.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWA2X6aJ-Ljowh-9ZdZUpL-jMjm5BhZugmJ75C0S08_blxDIMXDSKWoBozQeau5L8M2jknGu-5QgAKjCFRgR1gkQgJnULI_af9IEaz4Nyr8fD8nKVSqtaMs-3UrVq6lRPeBPjm2vR9nmK/s1600/IMG_2387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWA2X6aJ-Ljowh-9ZdZUpL-jMjm5BhZugmJ75C0S08_blxDIMXDSKWoBozQeau5L8M2jknGu-5QgAKjCFRgR1gkQgJnULI_af9IEaz4Nyr8fD8nKVSqtaMs-3UrVq6lRPeBPjm2vR9nmK/s640/IMG_2387.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw5Fcj7Q_ecsiqdSjuM8HbK9VGMgo2U_bCvaPVr1OQAjMCNmJ9YHsXXFc89aqvD5lFO1Na2uUfFj4EONwz_E85isjfDTLg6ewFgEBA2xnS88zKnFF5xEkpCjs6WVJNXjQPjnVw8xoVTFP4/s1600/IMG_2386.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw5Fcj7Q_ecsiqdSjuM8HbK9VGMgo2U_bCvaPVr1OQAjMCNmJ9YHsXXFc89aqvD5lFO1Na2uUfFj4EONwz_E85isjfDTLg6ewFgEBA2xnS88zKnFF5xEkpCjs6WVJNXjQPjnVw8xoVTFP4/s640/IMG_2386.PNG" width="360" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So that was pretty JOYful.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But my Day 38 of JOY moment today was returning to the ice rink tonight after a 7 month break from team skate and hooking up with my fav skating moms. I love my moms! I have lost a few across the years and I miss those who have moved on. But us "elders" are still here and even after 7 months, it was like no time had passed. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Come to think of it? That 7 <i>months </i>went fast! Time is going speeding out of control! What the heck??? Anyway - but for 1 season in 2014 that I wish to forget, my Brooke has been skating team since 2010. It's always a JOY to walk into Wesleyan University Athletic Center each Sunday night all winter. It may sound crazy - after all - who wants a commitment every Sunday night, October - March?? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Venturing out into the cold and dark on a night everyone else is holing in and getting their last licks of the weekend before the school/workweek starts all over again? I guess <i>I</i> do. I found JOY tonight like I always do and that makes me happy. I get to watch my girl skate and I get to blab it up with my moms. Yup - JOY and I know I will miss it when it's all over in 3 years, so I am holding on to every moment.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">PS - Apparently, since it's mischief night, there's some mischief going on because I can't get this post to appear normal so bear with the messy up top. No clue...HAPPY HALLOWEEN TOMORROW!!!</span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-14017126417490226532016-10-30T07:45:00.000-07:002016-10-30T07:46:19.544-07:00OOPSY<span style="font-size: large;">I had it all planned. I had all intentions - and then that darn Hallmark Christmas movie came on...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway - as you may recall - I am the Winterberry Bandit in the tri-town area. I stop EVERYWHERE and cut Winterberry. I now know the spots in 3 towns and hit it up early before anyone else can get it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I'm walking Daisy on my own dirt road that runs in front of my house and...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">HOW DID I MISS THIS??????</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsI7rOFgEchhd2OrVmROwhmzl9KhyphenhyphenWHMfeeBR8eqPow3pUM8Z7Xdrr0J6_eTe1d1TlnZUvxRSmzXCoeX43Hqk3C5S2fRVHtYGZzQj4-OPBhQ3e4lY7_lfqbnPf6dJi4tIZ0oJ_qRMRP8-m/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsI7rOFgEchhd2OrVmROwhmzl9KhyphenhyphenWHMfeeBR8eqPow3pUM8Z7Xdrr0J6_eTe1d1TlnZUvxRSmzXCoeX43Hqk3C5S2fRVHtYGZzQj4-OPBhQ3e4lY7_lfqbnPf6dJi4tIZ0oJ_qRMRP8-m/s640/image1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Day 37 JOY!</span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-42930217703260639682016-10-28T18:44:00.000-07:002016-10-28T18:45:27.782-07:00BAD BOYS, BAD BOYS, WATCHA GONNA DO?<span style="font-size: large;">You know what I love? Beating the system once in while instead of the system beating me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My clients often bring me great coupons - like I'm talking GREAT! I can't even get a coupon for 50 cents right to save my life. I am THE worst coupon person. But when they bring me $10 coupons or TWENTY DOLLAR COUPONS! You bet your ass I figure out how to make it work. Double time in this case!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIP6yO7pAlwmsH1L4TcgBeyNu_4onV-q2Q3RCes_iUo11Kc2WT-JM59NgA3taawPdsdvVvejIbgKpUu6XN7-RRaIYLM-XiTtcVsaXWNldOB6ZW5Jsjecv44hbaXSKeLHiRUnMPLqhRqIfa/s1600/IMG_2359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIP6yO7pAlwmsH1L4TcgBeyNu_4onV-q2Q3RCes_iUo11Kc2WT-JM59NgA3taawPdsdvVvejIbgKpUu6XN7-RRaIYLM-XiTtcVsaXWNldOB6ZW5Jsjecv44hbaXSKeLHiRUnMPLqhRqIfa/s320/IMG_2359.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">TWO clients brought me 5 weeks of $10 coupons to a local grocery store. That means I had 2 $10 coupons/week for over a month! So I had to go into covert operation mode to take advantage of this $100. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yup - that was me buying $40 worth of groceries, using a $10 coupon, bringing my groceries to my car and then sneaking back in with my other $10 coupon. I was the one using the furthest check clerk the first time and then avoiding her area for the next hour as I shopped so I could use my 2nd $10 coupon at the <strike>furthest check out station from the first go round</strike> self checkout. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Yea - like EVERYONE is watching this little old lady doing something so criminal...LOL!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is the 4th week I pulled this little coup off. Boy was I nervous the first time! I mean it <i>does</i> say 1 per family...But I have my convincing <strike>lie</strike> story all ready. I'm shopping for my elderly neighbor! Come on - that's good, right?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I mean - seriously? What was I thinking?! After 3 weeks I'm a professional criminal. Today I just strode right in like I owned the place - <i>both times</i>! Yea - I'm cool. No one's arresting ME! Catching Day 36 JOY - breakin' the law breakin' the law.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-67047735177835163762016-10-27T16:40:00.001-07:002016-10-27T16:41:13.046-07:00IT'S A BEAUTIFUL THING<span style="font-size: large;">It snowed!!!!! Need I say more? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">BTW - this is my Beauty Berry - in the snow! I mean like...beautious. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day 35 of JOY.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-89836215047984626622016-10-26T14:08:00.000-07:002016-10-26T14:12:48.599-07:00NATURE GRATEFUL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Well HELLOOOOOOO nature! Just stumbled upon this bad boy while waiting for Daisy to do her business...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Isn't he - SHE? - a BEAUT?! (Pretty sure this is a boy - teehee)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But sadly - as I am saying hello to nature - I am weeping goodbye as well. BIG freeze forecasted tonight and I don't expect to see these beauties again until 2017. So sad, but SO JOYful for the show they gave me this fall. Thank you nature. You bring me JOY everyday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> And then there's this discovery. An amazingly resilient pumpkin trying, trying, trying. I fear it will not survive the night so I plan to pluck it from it's nest and bring it inside to admire as long as possible. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day 34 of JOY. Nature JOY.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span id="goog_1526377342"></span><span id="goog_1526377343"></span><br /></span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-7312242251890163592016-10-25T17:00:00.001-07:002016-10-25T17:11:22.323-07:00DAY 32 and 3<span style="font-size: large;">Yup missed a day. Ooppsy. WhatEVER.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I may have missed Day 32 but I woke up to this message on Day 33 and it was pure JOY. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="" id="id_e06b_4a5d_a85e_64d5" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvP9BdihxHW3IqbG0vuZDD4GkwLGNKbHQA2yg2E7zM1rWDIrRJxvjGiLdbN9X1RAr0MBOQA6d7v-TJ5owvNB3Ialo-0qFt0JwKcaVIq4SA_8lqxUegIbl6fSIE0_K0CrSTxwnFEg0p7KRM/" style="height: auto; width: 353px;" title="" tooltip="" /> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">See you on Day 34 of JOY!</span></div>
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Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-74090951213266737852016-10-23T16:33:00.000-07:002016-10-23T16:47:04.386-07:00I'M HOOKED UP<span style="font-size: large;">Ummmm so - I know NOTHING about television shows. Actually - I don't even know how to use the tvs in our house. I KNOWWWWW - Right?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I <i>can</i> get to the guide - sometimes - if I have the right remote <strike>handed to me</strike> in my hand...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, I'm working out with my 6am class Thursday morning and my cousin - who happens to be in the class - says she's going on vacation - to Waco, TX...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm like - <i>WACO, TX</i>? What the HELL are you going THERE for???? I mean - isn't that the place where that whole Branch Dividian thing happened so long ago???</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Well, apparently - I'm the only one in the whole world that doesn't know about... </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">THEM? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ahhh - not a clue...I'm like WHOOOOOOO???????? Oy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So the class proceeds to fill me in on this really famous couple who do fixer upper something etc. in Waco, TX and I was like - okkkkk... </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But seriously, I-DON'T-WATCH-TV. It's on like 24/7 in our house but I never sit and watch, per se. I tune in and out as I am doing whatever, but I'm pretty clueless and tv deaf most of the time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So now I'm all filled with house design intelligence and I go about my day and within 24 hours...I see Chip and Joanna EVERYWHERE! How did I not know about these two??? They're on the talk show circuit, my niece is posting their book on Facebook (or maybe it's a magazine - not a clue) and then I casually mention my ignorance to my girlfriends who I was with all weekend on Martha's Vineyard and they - <i>stunned</i> - turn on HGTV. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">HGTV? What's THAT? I mean I <i>have</i> </span><span style="font-size: large;">heard of that dream house thingy (pretty sure) but anyway, </span><span style="font-size: large;">who the hell is on??? Yup.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And that Chip??? Yea. Hooked...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chip and Joanna JOY on Day 31. I think I'm going to be doing some re-decorating.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-4354667607405228982016-10-22T19:02:00.001-07:002016-10-22T19:02:03.675-07:00IT'S A FISH STORYSo I was searching for a JOY moment in my photos and I stumbled on this. I just love this pic. It's the colors of trout if you can believe THAT!<div><br></div><div>Yes! Each frame is a close up of a trout. Omg! So GORGEOUS! Weird, huh? Ok, weird JOY then!</div><div><br></div><div><img id="id_767e_4f20_81d7_1bfb" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyvByxcmAD1cv3iterJsW565FNT7XiRZ36PEd3nTOBWHqb_9aaNSDRumDcPzB7G2T_LV-FrVhnXFSz0pzhzAQ_-vi32ebkzePAw4B827Hllj1FhMctrzPnCmWPcCVQLUBUJ4l36fSM51K/" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 353px; height: auto;"> But so cool, right? FISH!!!! Idk - I caught JOY...lol!<br></div><div><br></div><div>Anyhoo - I'm on the Vineyard and look what I caught today. </div><div><br></div><img id="id_d16_6ea2_bccb_92de" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7yU740a45FlRgKTc7kNh-d7UJbMLUOQEzbhf6DwYERBWvBfsRa7oBeddPwX3Qm_yM34khXdkaOTQe6tQip5wUY_HMSrqUvduxvPfVyNBAvAG9q8xWyudVx-Wjwzkh3luZrS1-EXNfzJW/" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 353px; height: auto;"> Yea - not too shabby. Day 31 of JOY!<br>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-35453940184149824162016-10-21T19:19:00.001-07:002016-10-21T19:20:55.244-07:00NONE BETTER There's a certain quality to time spent with girlfriends you've know for 52 years. Things become so clear. <div><br></div><div><img id="id_dbb7_5f3d_4280_4fe9" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhE3fMBzZAZnyeIH0JGYf-8Kw3_j-TqdC_bVN-wWcyH0ND78fQ4SkzkiffaZzXB6nw__Hfvy-0g4YhkXrgt5asUgjJNZp6UvATNQk78to-1hIGe9Jwcu-Fc1g27x5nzcxrkHEfiAu67jxO/" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 353px; height: auto;"> Day 30 of JOY. Surely, girls weekend is just that. <br></div>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-60104375296199397262016-10-21T09:37:00.001-07:002016-10-21T09:37:56.190-07:00DAY 29 BETTER LATE THAN...<img id="id_6ec2_ef55_6745_399d" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjcnfqGXZIsvHx-HSEoITFEpGnY0qqrSvpIFMV7qa7QcpNwCymDqsAiGbGI5JWsLmAMnDWR9kDdy2z668K87W44xD-WZvv164gxEOItz4EKzsMOYx_AKx9AsZVE2kP8fnk4VDd2dryBp9/" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 353px; height: auto;"> Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-54576243551716807932016-10-19T17:56:00.000-07:002016-10-19T17:56:01.126-07:00CATCHING FALL BEFORE IT "LEAVES"<span style="font-size: large;">Couple of JOY moments today. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Riding in the car with my 14+ year old daughter and oohing and ahhhing over all the beautiful colors this week. Talking about trying to hold on to the beauty and not miss it due to the busyness of our lives. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We used to ride together to the skating rink almost every weekday afternoon for 6 years and Fall was huge for us. We got to watch the progression and just catch such JOY over the colors. Last year we weren't skating much so we kind of missed the whole show. This year - we are working at it and holding on tight.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then Daisy and I went hiking with my son and his girlfriend. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day 28 of JOY. Catching those wisps.</span></div>
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Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-881214029246807822016-10-18T18:06:00.001-07:002016-10-18T18:06:41.294-07:00GLORIOUS INDIAN SUMMER<span style="font-size: large;">What a freaking GLORIOUS DAY! It hit 80 degrees </span><span style="font-size: large;">in Southern New England </span><span style="font-size: large;">and it's October 18th. What a gift! A Day 27 of JOY gift.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Started my morning with...Glorious Morning Glory JOY. Still coming in strong. Truly the JOY of my mornings.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And then I hopped in my kayak with my friend Erika and paddled an hour to the beach, had a few Glorious beers and a hotdog and paddled back an hour. Check out the color! Glorious paddle!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Look at these Glorious Bunker fish. They just boil the water. We are on a river so they are obviously escaping the big bad bluefish! They actually look like piranhas! It was a bit spooky at first!! They boiled the river the whole paddle!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Glorious Indian Summer color was everywhere. I have to laugh at the people every year who proclaim the leaf color isn't going to be very good this year because because because and EVERY year it's BEAUTIFUL!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And look at these Glorious Montauk Daisies!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So much JOY to catch this Day 27 of JOY 18th of October. And I went after it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-11023707152123151432016-10-17T18:26:00.000-07:002016-10-17T18:26:46.512-07:00HAMILTON<span style="font-size: large;">So - now I know something about Alexander Hamilton because I just finished this.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you may be aware - there is quite a lot of hype about this founding father due to only <i>THE</i> hottest show on Broadway right now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So - ummmm - he wasn't a President...you know that, right? Yea - I thought he was a president. LOL!!!! Actually - I never even gave him 1 thought, EVER! But when a totally Hamilton obsessed client talked about the musical in strength class - non-stop for <strike>hundreds of</strike> months, I kind of figured that out. OY!!!! <strike>So glad I never mentioned <i>that</i> in class</strike>...So bad at history...(Oh and Jan? Thanks for bringing Hamilton to Renee's ATTENTION?!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway - so I finished the book, I LOVED the book, I love that I know stuff about Alexander Hamilton and I am NOW ready to see the show! <strike>If I could only afford tickets.</strike> <strike>If I could only freaking RESERVE tickets!</strike> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So that was Day 26 JOY. I finally finished this book and I loved it. You should read it. It's historical FICTION but it is VERY informative for lack of a better word and the author states it is as faithful to history as fiction permits. And THAT is close enough for me!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yeah Aaron Burr! I'm REALLY mad at you. Jerk. </span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-72456545799847044242016-10-16T16:31:00.000-07:002016-10-16T16:31:13.331-07:00STINKY SINKY<span style="font-size: large;">My world is in balance again. If only for a few hours...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last night (Saturday), I stepped into my pantry (which is a whole separate "room" 10 ft x 4 Ft) and my nose was met with a very INELEGANT bouquet. UGHHHHHHHH - my utility sink was full to the brim with the most disgusting - well TMI - and water was taking turns filling my two kitchen sinks and that sink. Even the dishwasher was backed up. Nothing was going down. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Did I tell you I had just cleaned out my fridg? Oh yea - it was <i>damn</i> pretty. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Babeeeeeeeeee!!!!! The sink's clogged" (note the singular use of sink as I put off the inevitable tirade of $%#%$^F&&K*&^$#)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My husband (who btw is a plumber by trade but an accountant in real life) started to scurry around - downstairs - upstairs - downstairs - upstairs. Have you ever seen A Christmas Story? Where the dad has to go down and "fix" the furnace regularly? Hmmmm - yea. That was <i>our</i> evening. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">$#@#$%^^&%!$#%&*)F&&ck*&$$##@#$^&</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh yea - it was <i>damn</i> pretty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And did I mention the elegant bouquet? OMGGGGGGG - light the candles! Light the wax thingys from Yankee Candle! Get out the bleach! Ughhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So - bailed the water out of the sinks <strike>with out vomiting,</strike> got the smell under control...but nothing was happening <i>that </i>night to fix this mess. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh yea - it was <i>damn</i> pretty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Woke up. <strike>RANNNNNNNNN</strike> escaped to a yoga class praying that upon my return I would find it all fixed and smelling fine. Yea right...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">IT WAS NOT <i>DAMN</i> PRETTY!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So where's the JOY, you ask?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's 7:14pm on Sunday night and the clog is gone (2 hours ago), the dishes are washed (Can you say 90 minutes of something like below <strike>only worse</strike>?),</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">dinner is served, eaten and cleaned up AND the house smells amazingly clean. It is <i>damn</i> pretty!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes - my world is in balance. For how long? Who knows. It's like catching JOY. There are moments and there are hours. You just never know how <i>damn</i> pretty it's gonna stay.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day 25 JOY. Who knew?</span><br />
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<br />Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-70903844367498025312016-10-15T13:09:00.000-07:002016-10-15T13:09:01.976-07:00OCTOBER MORN<span style="font-size: large;">I went to bed last night with JOYful anticipation of hiking in the morning with my bestie, Karen and of course, Daisy. It was heaven. Woods, crisp, cool October air, non-stop BLAB - it doesn't get any simpler OR better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Day 24 JOY. 1 more day and I'm a quarter through my Hundred Days of JOY!</span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904700605787807645.post-7948535098741551172016-10-14T17:54:00.000-07:002016-10-14T17:54:01.071-07:00HE'S 17 <span style="font-size: large;">Snifffffff. How is this possible?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bittersweet JOY Day 23.</span>Joeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09027041638381276184noreply@blogger.com0