Middle Age Biker

DIY Project

2012-01-31T21:49:00.000-08:00

Lately my shower head has not been performing. It has been leaking and occasionally more water came out the side than through the shower head . . . time for those tools I bought at a garage sale to go into action!

My equipment - bought these tools at a late plumber's garage sale

There was an old shower head, I took the picture after I removed it . . . taking the tape off was the hardest part.

Success . . . well at least until tomorrow morning when I try it out.

Working from Home

2012-01-18T10:14:00.000-08:00

My job allows me to work from home when necessary; a great perk but not something I would want to do every day. I am too much of a people person, I like to hear activity around me. It is too quiet and my kitchen is a little too convenient - I keep thinking of reasons why I need one more cup of tea or a piece of candy.

Nothing shuts Seattle down like a little snow. It is pretty to look at and another reason why it is hard to stay focused and keep working.

Hard to believe that I was here three weeks ago!

Welcome 2012!

2012-01-08T18:16:00.000-08:00

When it is wet and cold in the northwest this is what I'm going to remember!

What I love most about the new year are all the possibilities. It is like a new Mead peechee, an unopened gift, the first day of school, a blank canvas; what's going to happen, where is the year going to take me?

Look for this girl Mary - she's going places!

The year began beautifully with a relaxing trip to Kauai visiting my friends, the Smiths. We went to an amazing New Year's Eve party where a live band rocked! The lead singer, Mary (sorry, I don't know her last name) is planning on submitting a demo tape to the X Factor or one of those kind of shows - it is one of those where the public gets to vote. I've never voted before but if she gets on the show I will definitely make the call or send the text or whatever you need to do. She was fantastic!

I haven't planned any big rides - no lofty goals . . . I'm not traveling to exotic locations, taking any classes or making any major purchases but with Peter's upcoming wedding it will certainly be memorable. I have made a list of resolutions; eat right, keep up my exercise routine, clean the garage and reorganize the pantry, so I am poised for success! I have a blessed life filled with people I love so 2012 has got to be a wonderful adventure.

Kathleen and Steve (not the best picture but it's all I've got!)

34 Years and Counting . . .

2011-12-18T19:36:00.000-08:00

We had the annual Cougan/Davis Christmas dinner this Saturday. What began 34 years ago with four adults and three children has grown to 13 adults and six children. I wish I had pictures to document each year but will need to be satisfied with mental good memories from past years - digital cameras were not invented yet and money was tight for processing photos.

What I love most is the wonderful time together and all the fun memories of the past.

Lunch Date

2011-12-12T16:11:00.000-08:00

I had lunch with Abby and Eli today!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2011-12-07T20:49:00.000-08:00

I put up my tree and my Christmas houses. My old tree lights weren't working so I bought new ones, LED lights. I want to be a good steward of the earth but honestly, I hate them. They look ghostly and weird. But I guess I'm going to keep them. Maybe if I weren't so cheap and spent the extra $2 for the Martha Stewart ones they would look better.

Holiday Kick-off!

2011-11-27T18:40:00.000-08:00

No, this isn't my new boyfriend - my dear friend Shelly treated me to the Seattle Men's Choir concert. The man in the picture is part of the choir and during the majority of the show he was wearing a tuxedo. He had a fantastic voice and he could walk much better than I ever could wearing 6-inch heels. . . who am I kidding, I've never been able to walk in 6-inch heels.

Thanksgiving! Tree Hunting!

2011-11-25T19:39:00.000-08:00

So much joy! I just love my family . . .

Same place we got our tree when my kids were young.

Eli, I think this is the tree for Meme . . .

Can we have more of that yummy hot chocolate?

I'm ready for the holidays!

Nocturnal Reality

2011-11-18T20:38:00.000-08:00

I've always enjoyed hearing about other people’s dreams; analyzing, looking for hidden meaning in every detail and nuance. My children would agree that one of the first things I asked them every morning was, “Did you have any good dreams last night?” My friends BZ and Janet share their dreams and ask for my advice and analysis and my kids still call to tell me what they dreamt about.

Which brings me to today's story . . . I work with geniuses, every one I support is a PhD., MD, even PhD./MD combined – they’re all brilliant. Weekly we have an all-company meeting where one of the scientists present their latest work and today’s speaker was the VP of Chemistry whom I support. He has been described to me as a rock star in the world of chemistry. When he attends a conference scientist surround him, hanging on to his every word, soaking up what he has to say, his seminars are packed by fans. He reminds me a bit of Doc from Back to the Future; he is eccentric, unconventional, funny, colorful and did I mention, brilliant?

Last week he was scheduled to speak at a conference and was presenting a poster. He was very last minute in getting the file to me and it was my responsibility to get the poster printed. Kinko's kept screwing it up and I had to run back and forth trying to get it right. I literally gave it to him as he was leaving for the airport. Needless to say it was a huge headache and very stressful.

Back to today. . . Just as he was getting ready to speak it occurred to me that he had asked for an easel to display the poster at the all-company meeting. I rushed up to him and to my boss who happened to be sitting next to him and said, “Peter, I forgot to get you an easel!” He looked at me puzzled and said, “Easel?” And I said, “Yes, for your poster, so you don’t have to hold it up, do you still want me to get it for you now?” He said, “Why would I need an easel, I’m not going to show my poster today,” as both he and my boss looked at me baffled. It was at that moment that I realized I had only dreamt that he had asked me to provide him with an easel and not based in any request from him.

I have no analysis for this dream other than the poster must have caused me a great deal of stress, enough to dream about. What I do know is that Peter now knows that I am really goofy and I confuse real life with nocturnal life. What can I say, it’s a gift.

New Cube

2011-11-16T16:09:00.000-08:00

It is the small things in life that bring me the greatest pleasure. I moved to a new cubicle and I elected to have a 'stand-up' desk. I love it. But you know what I love even more? When my kids come and have lunch with me.

A Perfect Weekend

2011-11-06T19:05:00.000-08:00

I received flowers from my boss for a job well done.
I played baseball and fairies with Abby.
I played trucks and in Eli's new playhouse.
I got an extra hour of sleep.
I had breakfast with some of my favorite people.
I took advantage of the dry autumn weather and enjoyed a nice long ride.

Guess it is time to go back to work!

Costume Parties

2011-10-23T19:13:00.000-07:00

The planning and creating for a costume party is fun. Having to wear it all evening? Not so fun. Especially since it included a hula hoop. It was hard to get to the food table.
(I'm a jelly fish in case you can't see it. My company moved into a third building and there was an abundance of bubble wrap. Being the frugal type I took what was going to be thrown away and created this costume. A lot of people thought I was the Ice Queen. Guess that would be okay too).

Pumpkin Farm

2011-10-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

The only thing I don't like about fall is that winter is right around the corner. I just don't like the winter. Luckily fall in the northwest can be beautiful and glorious and Tuesday was a perfect example. My girls, Abby, Eli and I took advantage of the great weather and went to the pumpkin farm.

We all had a great time. Okay winter, I'm sort of ready for you but I'd better plan a warm weather vacation quick!

Friends

2011-10-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

One Year Anniversary!

2011-09-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

Today marks one year at my new job! What a wonderful place to work - our first commercial drug was recently approved by the FDA and the company threw a giant party to celebrate. I feel pretty darn lucky to have landed such a great job.

Abby Starts School!

2011-09-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

Wow, time sure flies! Can Abby really be starting preschool? Although Abby was super excited to begin her first day she chose this pose to convey her excitement. Is she an actress in the making? What a funny little person she is!

Wedding Weekend

2011-08-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

This weekend I attended one of Peter's childhood friends wedding and it was such a pleasure and privilege to see all of those grow-up faces in place of the boys I remembered. I am so proud of the man Peter has become and it was easy to see that many of the parents there felt the same way. I had the opportunity to reconnect with many of the moms and dads who sat through countless music concerts, field trips and baseball games and it was such great fun to see them and catch up. We now have daughter-in-laws, son-in-laws and grandchildren and the passing of time may bring an extra ache or pain, grey hair or wrinkle but seeing how it is all unfolding - well it's a wonderful journey!

Farming in the Burbs

2011-08-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

Kind of proud of my first harvest . . .

Togetherness

2011-07-26T21:42:00.000-07:00

I wonder which of them decides what they're going to wear for the day? I couldn't help myself - I had to take their picture, they were just too darn cute.

Little Ride

2011-07-10T16:43:00.000-07:00

You start really, really early!

The finish!

Half way point, still feeling strong.

Took a little ride on Saturday; Seattle to Portland. I am feeling really, really tired and moving a little slow but happy. Thanks to Peter for acting as my personal support, Kelsey for her awesome advice and encouraging texts, Joanne for getting up at 3:30AM to make sure someone saw me off, and all my friends for their belief in me. During the most grueling part of the ride I carried each of you in my heart and heard your words of encouragement and support. I also kept the prize in mind, a T-shirt that proclaims I am a one day rider in the STP!

Relieved to see the finish line!

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

When was the last time the weather was perfect for the 4th of July?

Hat? Check!

Dogs decorated and ready to go? Check!

Hydration is important!

A perfect 4th of July!

Please take me back, please?

2011-06-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

I miss my friend, cable TV. It is the silly, simple things I long for; looking at the cable box to see what time it is, using the remote to figure out if I should go to bed or stay up and watch something that could rot my brain, or the thrill of mindless HGTV where I dream of exotic vacation homes in tropical locations and how I would remodel my bathroom if given an extra $20K. Yes, I’m crawling back to Comcast, begging for a deal, allowing them to manipulate me into believing that life is better with 500 channels.

It isn’t until something is gone that you come to realize what you missed. I tried listening to Mariner games on the radio and following along using my laptop but that got old quickly. Sure ESPN 3 advertizes that you can watch sporting events real time but cricket and rugby are not sports I typically follow. And don’t get me started on Apple TV.

Actually, Apple TV was incrementally shortening my life. Literally every time I tried to use it I had some issue that entailed a call to technical support. For identification purposes I had to read off the teeny, tiny serial numbers and that required finding a magnifying glass. And then the hold time on the phone was ridiculous; I could feel my blood pressure start to rise and wasted dollar signs would waltz their way across my mind. Once I tried to watch a movie and it took SIX hours for it to download!

Other things were getting to me; 10 of the 55 channels were either in Japanese or Spanish and despite my best attempts I was not absorbing any of the language. Even as a spiritual person the six stations of evangelistic preachers talking fire and brimstone were a bit much.

I am admitting to you that I've made a grave error - not life threatening or world shattering but it is indeed an experiement gone wrong. Yesterday I picked up the phone and talked to Randy at Comcast and he assured me he was giving me the very best deal available. I’ve learned my lesson for now but I think after the two years contract is up and technology has advanced a little bit more, I may try again. Until then, where is that remote?

Family birthday night

2011-06-14T20:47:00.000-07:00

Tonight it was a family dinner to celebrate Brian and Peter's birthday; pizza, blackberry pie and the hysterical antics of Eli and Abby. I just love every one of them - lucky, lucky girl I am!

Eli's new truck PJs

Dinner at the kid's table

Peter is 30!

2011-06-06T16:20:00.000-07:00

(I made these masks of Peter at various ages - they are sort of creepy and sort of funny)

Peter was an active and creative little boy and most of our families’ most famous stories involve some crazy thing he did. Like the time we were camping and I was trying to get him ready for bed and he keep screaming, “I’m not tired I’m just nervous.” Or as a first grader he was late walking home from school and although we literally lived around the corner from the school, I of course panicked and ran to school only to meet Peter half way, walking toward me with tiny, shuffling steps. When I reached him I realized his shoes were tied together with several tight knots. It seems two older boys talked him into letting them tie his laces together – I’m sort of fuzzy on the details of why that seemed like a good idea to him. Once he handcuffed himself to the neighbor’s boat to impress a little girl who was visiting and I had to call the sheriff’s office to have an officer help me remove the cuffs. I guess that was foreshadowing and thank goodness he’s a cop not a criminal!

Peter’s most famous story involves a movie we watched as a family titled, “Wildcats” with Goldie Hawn who played an inner city football coach to a rag-tag bunch of hoodlums. Behind Goldie’s’ unorthodox coaching the team wins enough games to play in the championship game. Playing the Wildcats Goldie gives a rousing speech and the players burst through the locker room doors onto the field yelling, “Let’s eat pussy.” Oops – Peter turns to me and asks me what that means and I quickly and calmly explain that cats are often called “pussy cats” and since they were playing the Wildcats it was a way to convey they intended to beat the opposing team. Who knew I should added, “that is something we don’t say because it means something else too.”

Several weeks later found us at church waiting with a large group of parents for our children to leave their kindergarten Sunday school class. Peter was the first one out the door and proudly yelling at the top of his lungs, “Let’s eat pussy!” I have no idea what the other parents did because I grabbed his arm with one of those ‘your mother is truly angry with you’ grips and high-tailed it out of there and then gave Peter the explanation I should have begun with.

Peter turned 30 this past week and I am so grateful for the wonderful man he has become. He is brave and strong, kind and funny, loving and generous. I have always said God gives you one to keep you humble – well I thank God for the humility and every day for Peter!

Finally

2011-06-03T18:49:00.000-07:00

Ahh, finally, I've spent the entire spring dreaming of this.

Time flies when you're having fun . . .

2011-05-30T19:56:00.000-07:00

Why can't every weekend be a three day one? I was so productive and had so much fun. My flowers are all in and my garden is planted; I rode my bike for miles, Mariner game, R & R at BZ and Bob's cabin, house cleaned, car scrubbed and vacuumed, baked a rhubarb pie, Penny and Scout got tons of exercise, went to the farmer's market, slept in, got a massage and watched a movie. Guess there is only one thing left to do . . . I'll go back to work.

Reach the Beach

2011-05-23T09:38:00.000-07:00

I completed Reach the Beach ride to Pacific City Oregon. It was a great ride, lots of fun even if there was a fairly strong head wind and I spent a fair amount of time cursing because of that! It was my fastest ride yet; I'm working at my strength and time and maybe it is paying off a little.

On the way down to Salem we stopped in the Willamette Valley for a little wine tasting. It was a beautiful day, finally sunny and warm. It felt like a real vacation, like I'd escaped for a weekend in Tuscany. I've never been there but it seemed like it would feel similar to a visit to Italy. Maybe I'll get to go there someday.

2011-05-18T16:54:00.000-07:00

It is sunny in Edmonds and I'm going to Happy Hour - Half Price Wine night at Arnie's!

Sunny (sort of) Day

2011-05-14T21:30:00.000-07:00

Today our record breaking cool and wet weather held off until early evening and I made hay while the sun shined! I completed almost all of my planting. Still needing just a few shade plants I'll be finished and ready for summer (if it ever happens and being the Pollyanna I am I believe that warm weather is just around the corner!).
I had to fight off guilt because I should have been putting miles in the saddle but I have a limited amount of time and energy and I elected to work in the garden. Maybe tomorrow I'll get those miles in regardless of the weather.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T07:49:00.000-07:00

One of my greatest joys is to see my daughters as amazing mothers. They are patient, playful, insightful, funny, inquisitive, creative, and above all, loving. I am so proud of the women they've become and so awed by the mothers they are to Eli and Abby. Happy Mother's Day Melissa and Kelsey!

Thank God I shaved my legs

2011-04-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

I've been involved for the last 9 months in a civic project - a fashion show featuring the merchants of my local community and yesterday the day finally came for the big event. My responsibility to the show was procuring donations from local merchants for a silent auction. I tell you, there is nothing harder than asking for free stuff during a recession! One merchant that will go unnamed actually yelled at me - told me people are constantly asking him for donation and that he didn't want to give anything more! Anyway, one of the models had an emergency and they needed someone who wore the same size as she did to take her place and low and behold, I fit the bill. The silent auction very went well and bonus! because of my rusty modeling skills I get a big discount at the merchant's store for simply being in the right place at the right time. Yep, that's a metaphor for life - if only I had a schedule for where I should be and when I should be there!!

I. Hate. The. Weather. Part II

2011-04-28T11:39:00.001-07:00

You know what I hate? 40 degrees on April 28th. Yep. I hate the weather.

It's Official

2011-04-24T20:04:00.000-07:00

Kelsey and Brian hosted all of us for a great Easter/birthday dinner and an impromptu engagement celebration. Peter asked his long-time girl friend to be his wife today - hid the ring in the bottom of her Easter basket! She said yes and I am thrilled - she is a delightful woman. Congratulations Peter and Rachel!

For my birthday the kids gave me a new camera - my old one bit the dust! Wonderful day with family and friends and a great weekend. I think double nickels is off to a good start.

Birthday Girl

2011-04-20T12:25:00.000-07:00

I turned 55 years-old yesterday! It feels like I just turned 50 and now I'm half way through the decade. My mom seemed really old at 55 and I suspect that I seem really old to some younger people (just saying 'younger people' makes me seem old). On Sunday I rode 30 miles in an hour and 47 minutes - I'm pretty sure my mom could not do that at 55.

I spent the day with Melissa, Kelsey, Abby and Eli - we drove up north to look at the tulips where the sun actually shinned. That's been a rare occurrence in the Northwest this spring. I had a great time - how much better can it get than to spend a day with people you love?

For the next year any opportunity I have to tell my age I'm planning on saying, "Double Nickles" just because I can. My friend Bob thought I said, "Double Nipples." I hope no one else thinks that's what I said but if they did it would be pretty funny.

I hate the weather

2011-04-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

I know, I write about this every single spring. I swear that God gave me this brown skin to live in warmer climates - but I live here, in the northwest where I am rapidly accumulating moss between my toes. If everyone I love would move to Palm Springs I would be there in a heartbeat. But no, everyone I love lives right here so I am staying and learning to love gray, rain and cool weather. Do you think if I say that 100 an hour I might come to believe that? I love rain, I love gray skies, I love cool weather, I love rain, I love gray skies, I love . . .

My New Relationship

2011-03-31T15:36:00.000-07:00

My new relationship with the HD antenna and Apple TV is nearly a month old and we’re still getting to know one another. The HD part has been fairly simple. I receive all the main network channels - NBC, CBS and ABC plus their random partner stations that feature old sitcoms, random movies, adventure and action shows and one channel that always has skiing or cycling competitions. There are two Japanese stations that are especially interesting in their coverage of the earthquake/nuclear events in Japan. Plus five to six Spanish religious stations and every variety of public television – 55 channels total.

The Apple TV part has been more challenging beginning with losing the teeny, tiny remote that powers the whole thing. I think it got caught up in the newspaper and throw out with the recycling. But my handy i-Phone came to the rescue because there’s an app for that! With a Netflix account I’ve been able to watch movies and I even figured out how to watch Caillou, Abby’s favorite show.

The final piece of the ensemble; connecting my laptop to the HDMI TV is the sweetest part of the deal. Totally free – well not counting the high speed internet access – and I can watch anything I can find on the internet right there in living color on the tube. And no, I don’t watch inappropriate stuff but I could if I wanted to.

As I read over this I suspect I’m not going to send everyone out to get rid of their cable and convert to the alternative. It sort of like I broke up with George Clooney to begin a relationship with Justin Bieber – crazy! Do I think it is worth the $100 savings a month? Yes. Is it seamless and convenient? No. But I find that I watch less mindless television and I read a great deal more. Do I think I’ll single handedly bring down the cable industry? Nope! So for now, I’m not crawling back to Comcast or switching to the Dish Network - I may still lust for George but I’m happy to cuddle up to Justin.

Abby is Two!

2011-03-15T14:55:00.000-07:00

Abby turned two years old on Sunday! She is a happy, funny, precious little peanut. And, I might add, a very gifted musician. Justin Beiber better watch his back.

She had her two year check up: she is 2 feet, 11 inches tall and weighs 29 1/2 pounds. She talks well for a 2 year old but is still a little hard to understand unless you spend a great deal of time with her. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious. Having little Abby in my life is a true gift!

Breaking up is hard to do . . .

2011-03-04T11:11:00.000-08:00

I’m working on a break up in a relationship I’ve been in for a very long time. It is difficult because although I know I’m ready to move on – so many things have made me unhappy about this relationship for a long time - there is that sense of the unknown, the uncertainty, that learning of things done differently that creates anxiety. I feel uncomfortable about it and I wonder how I’ll change in response to this new life style. But I think I’m ready to move forward and I’ve done several steps in preparation before actually speaking the words out loud, “I’ve found something else and I don’t need you anymore.”

It started slowly, this realization that we’ve grown apart. Over the last year we don’t spend nearly the amount of time together that we used to and the parts of our relationship that do work can be so easily replaced by other things. At first it seemed that our relationship occupied so much of my time; you comforted me, entertained me, kept me laughing or weeping or awed. In the kitchen, the living room and even the bedroom, sometimes you were all that I had and you sustained me in so many ways. But you’ve lost your luster, we no longer work well together. I use a pittance of what is there and you cost me way, way, way too much.

Yes Comcast, I’m moving on from the bundle package that we’ve enjoyed for the last four years. I’m leaving you for a HD antenna and Apple TV - streaming Netflix and taking advantage of free Internet access for live sporting events. I no longer use your land line and your cable options; we are no longer compatible for the amount of cash I have to shell out to you each month just to sustain you. Face it Comcast, you are obsolete. Sure you’ve tried to keep up with the times offering Infinity, OnDemand and seemingly handing out free HBO but it is not enough. I’ve grown beyond you and I think you know that. So when I call to tell you I’m leaving, don’t try to woo me back, don’t offer me a better deal – please just accept that I’m moving on.

Farewell Comcast, high bills and useless technology. I hope I don’t come crawling back to you with my tail between my legs begging for forgiveness and hoping for the $99 bundle package. Ah, I feel better already.

Zzzzz

2011-02-24T10:08:00.000-08:00

I’ve been thinking about my Meme a lot lately. She’s been gone for 21 years. Maybe it is because I have grandchildren of my own but I really think it is because I have begun to have serious sleep issues. I know, you’re wondering how I made the leap from comparing grandchildren to sleep issues. Let me explain.

Lurking around and listening to adult talk was my forte – my mom would murmur, “Big Ears is around,” meaning she noticed me and was alerting everyone to watch what they were saying which only made me want to listen more. Rarely was there anything interesting being discussed but an ongoing and constant theme seemed to be my grandmother’s inability to sleep through the night. As a kid that seemed impossible and using my limited logical knowledge I thought this was a unique problem of my grandmother’s. Let’s fast forward 45 years.

I can not sleep through the night to save my life. I fall asleep fairly quickly but then I proceed to wake up about every two to three hours. Most of the times I use the bathroom and go right back to sleep. But more and more often I lie awake for hours, not feeling particularly sleepy or upset or anything really, just awake. Sometimes I will get up and make a cup of tea, read or vacuum. You can do that when you live alone – vacuum anytime you darn well please.

My doctor prescribed an off-label sleeping aid but it makes me feel so drowsy during the following day that I only take one on Friday or Saturday night giving me that off day to recover. Every once in a blue moon I’ll have a random sleep through the entire night and it is a true miracle. Overall I don’t mind getting old; it is such an interesting journey. The sleeplessness is one aspect I could do without. But if it helps me remember an important person in my life; one that accepted and loved me just because I was ME, well that is not a bad thing and worth (sort of) the lack of sleep.

The GW

2011-02-23T18:57:00.000-08:00

I love to comb the Goodwill for interesting items. One of my favorite pair of jeans cost me a whopping $3 and were proudly purchased at the GW. My friend Janet taught me how to look for the best deals and it is one of our favorite ways to spend time together. You need to take your time, be patient, move past the sort of weird smell and overall feeling that you're wearing someone's cast offs and if you can do that - you might score a great deal.

Janet and I stopped by the Everett GW on Monday and although I didn't find any clothing deals I did buy these candle holders for $4.99 less 40% off because they were pink tags. Thank you President's Day - SCORE!

Golf

2011-02-16T19:41:00.000-08:00

This photo is one of the reasons it is a good idea to plan a mid-winter vacation and include a little golf. How does low 80s sound right about now? Mix in a little cycling, a great hike, good friends and you've got a recipe for fun. I'm a lucky girl.

Visiting Abby

2011-02-10T19:08:00.000-08:00

I had a late afternoon dentist appointment and on the way home, stopped in to spend some time with Abby and Melissa. Doesn't Abby look terrific in her sunglasses?

Surprise Guest

2011-01-30T17:04:00.000-08:00

Eli, Kelsey and Brian stopped by Sunday afternoon - I love that kind of surprise. Eli is wearing his Hawaiian shirt - he told his mom that he was on vacation today. On vacation you can eat all the chocolate chip cookies you want and you don't even need to wash your face.

The moon and other stuff

2011-01-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

The moon has been amazing the past two nights and mornings. On my way home from the gym I drove to the beach – it’s only a block away from my heath club – and snapped this picture. It hardly does justice to the incredible beauty of the light on the water and probably the fact that I used my i-phone to snap the picture.

On a different note; I signed up for the STP. It is always sort of embarrassing to me when people who learn that I love to cycle always assume that I’ve done the STP and I have to admit that I haven’t. I find myself mumbling something about how it is just a 200 mile trek down I-5 and there are way too many cyclists for my liking – it’s capped at 10,000! But I decided that on my deathbed I wanted to have that ride crossed off my list. To add to the challenge, I am going to attempt to complete it in one day. Crazy, I know – not sure why I torture myself that way.

And finally on a sort of funny note: I had to have my dryer vent cleaned, the whole laundry closet was suddenly full of lint and genius that I am, I realized something was wrong. The vent cleaner went above and beyond and repaired the disconnected dryer hose so that I wouldn't have the extra lint problem again. I couldn't help but snap a picture.

Merry Christmas and Happy 2011!

2011-01-05T06:53:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or does it feel like Christmas day was a month ago? Spending Christmas with two toddlers was fun, joy-filled and made me feel so thankful for such a wonderful family. Although they were both terrified of sitting on Santa’s lap they had no problem with the toys and gifts he left quickly figuring out that beneath that colorful wrapping paper was something fun for them. They both play well together and it is really fun to watch the cousins get along – even if it sometimes leaves some bumps and bruises!

My friend Janet made awesome aprons for everyone!

My grand-kitties!

I fulfilled two of my long time wishes during the week between the holidays – I left the day after Christmas for a warm weather vacation and rode a bike down one of my favorite locations – the tree tunnel in Kauai. Riding in Hawaii has always been a fantasy of mine and leaving the day after Christmas, well it just doesn’t get much better than that!

My friend from childhood or rather, teenager-hood, invited me to spend the week with her and her husband at their home in Kauai. They have a magnificent house in Poipu and they throw one hell of a New Year’s Eve party! Live band, dancing, drink, amazing food, fireworks and fire dancers, the evening could not have been more fun and the weather was warm and clear. If this is any indication of how 2011 is going to go, I’m in for an outstanding year!

Holiday Update

2010-12-21T14:30:00.000-08:00

I haven’t blogged in forever and it isn’t because I’ve been too busy – rather just lazy! With the Christmas season in full swing I’ve managed to get in a couple of fun holiday events and feel full of good cheer.

Melissa, Kelsey, Charlie, Eli, Abby and I went to see Bellevue’s Garden d’Lights 2010 (http://www.bellevuebotanical.org/events/fmevents_gardendlights.htm). With displays of all sorts of scenes; tropical seas, a farmer’s crop, raging river, exotic flowers, birds and fish, there seemed no limit to what could be done with a bazillion Christmas lights. And the weather cooperated – translation: no rain, it was entertaining enough for even a couple of two-year olds.

Last weekend was the 33 year of the Cougan/Davis dinner. With five children under age 4 -Abby was sick and couldn’t join us and 12 adults – Charlie stayed home with Abby, it was a loud and joyous event. Both B-Z and I felt so thankful that our children make this yearly celebration a priority in their busy lives.

Here comes Santa Claus for reluctant participants . . .

2010-12-05T15:21:00.000-08:00

Eli and Abby are not quite ready to joyfully see Santa yet. Still lots of tears and terrified clinging to their mother but we all know it won't last forever. Eli is beginning to understand the "Santa is coming soon," commenting about every toy, "Maybe Santa will bring that for me."

Saturday morning the girls and I met to take the kids to see Santa. As you can see from the pictures and video, they're still a little leery of the jolly fellow and maybe next year they'll have smiles instead of tears!

What I'm Thankful For . . .

2010-11-26T19:45:00.000-08:00

It's an exercise I try do more often than just on Thanksgiving Day- to celebrate all the abundance I have - the little and large - the obvious and obscure - the sheer luck of being born in the United States . . . to say I'm blessed is an ultimate understatement. And so I will list in no specific order what I am most thankful for:
Melissa, Kelsey, Peter, Eli, Abby, Brian, Charlie, Rachel, Janet, B-Z, Bob, Joanne, Jim, Denise, Seattle University, Ruth, Shoreline H.S., Sunset Elementary, orthodontia, Jay Jacobs, my hands, Rita, Mrs. Bennett, imagination, Toby, Hank, Ken, Walt, books, Penny, Scott, Ernestine Garneau, my bike, "What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail," Glee, baseball, my legs, airplanes that transfer me to someplace warm, dental floss, self-discipline, the Archdiocese of Seattle, Shoreline School District, Seattle Genetics, feather pillows, lit candles, i-phones, Costco, Catholic Charities, tears, Target, coffee and my French press, summer, spring, love, baseball, my car, gin & tonic, cauliflower, my little house, a reason to feel hope & joy, clocks, memories, Lucky Charms cereal, prayer, my gray hair, sleep, salads, movies, cooking, my furnace, Linda, cheese and crackers, French toast, Randy, dancing, cheater glasses, college basketball, Jonathan, wine, my little office . . . oh, I could go on and on. SO much grace and abundance - I'm a lucky girl.

Happy Thanksgiving . . . my prayer for you is that you always have something to say thank you to!

Blizzard! 2010

2010-11-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

It is so funny in the northwest when it snows. Every TV station has extra coverage showing every possible snow related story. So it snowed today - it's a winter wonderland and a traffic nightmare.
My new company has snow days and I feel like a middle-schooler wish for the weather to stay inclement. Can it be? Will it be? Tomorrow: hot chocolate, fire burning, soup simmering and a good book . . . sounds like a plan.

Poor Little Penny

2010-11-18T19:24:00.000-08:00

Penny Cougan had surgery today . . . poor little girl.

On Monday I noticed some swelling on her back and it turned out to be an abscess that had to be surgically drained. Her veterinarian called to give me the diagnosis and suggested that while she was out she should also have her teeth cleaned. Wouldn't you know it - turns out she had an abscess on a tooth and another molar with a crack in it and both needed to be extracted! When I was growing up our dogs never had their teeth cleaned. What was I going to say to her doctor, "No, I don't care about her teeth and any pain she may be suffering because of her poor oral health." I, of course gave him permission to proceed.

So poor little Penny is suffering with a shaved back, straw-like thing (drain) in her side, a sore mouth, wearing the cone of shame, and can only eat soft foods for the next four days. I am relieved that it wasn't something more serious but now have a much lighter pocketbook. Oh well.

Helmet Optional

2010-11-15T19:48:00.000-08:00

Last spring I took a nasty fall braking on some leaves and hurt my shoulder. It's made me a bit leary about riding in the rain. Along with that, it is now dark when I get home and so I typically don't get a lot of riding in during the winter months. But these gray days are beginning on a different note; I set up a bike trainer in my garage and I am happily riding regardless of the weather!

Yes, it is kind of boring and truly a means to an end. But I'm mitigating it by watching Mad Men on my i-Pod. Sure the screen is only three inches wide and I do have to wear cheaters to actually see what is going on but it does make the time go by. And watching those character hack up a lung every time they're shown getting out of bed is impetus enough to stay healthy and keep riding.

Cubicle Artwork

2010-11-11T18:49:00.000-08:00

Abby and Melissa stopped by to have lunch with me today and then paid a visit to my snug little office. I’ve had a soccer ball under a chair almost since I started and I’ve been meaning to bring to the storeroom – if I could figure out where it is located. I’m still feeling my way around here. But Little Miss Abby was very pleased to see that Meme keeps her office kid friendly and ready for her to visit.

Abby loves drawing and she created a little work of art for me to hang. Highlighters were her only choice but that didn’t stop this budding O’Keefe – look at the fluidity and movement to this work of art! Like all great artist, she’s a little sloppy and just a tiny bit of highlighter got on the carpet. I’m just hoping I don’t get the riot act from the cleaning crew.

It was the highlight of my day! Thanks Abby and Melissa for the visit and the wonderful lunch time company.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T18:30:00.000-07:00

It is hard to tell here but Eli is a lumberjack for Halloween. Kelsey made a pretend saw and a felt log - I think it was a pretty clever costume! Eli really loves his Uncled Dpete.

Abby was an adorable little bee.

Makeover

2010-10-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

Penny and Scout went to the groomers today. It's amazing the difference a day makes.

Before . . .

Scouty

Penny.

Hookey!

2010-10-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

I took a couple of hours off work and joined Melissa, Kelsey, Eli and Abby at the pumpkin patch!

First we went to the Snohomish Bakery for a little coffee and treats before pumpkin hunting.

We went on to the toy store . . .

Abby is trying to decide if the doll is a good deal or not.

I think she like the desserts best of all.

When I'm old(er) and gray(er) I'll remember the time I spent with the ones I love with more joy and fondness than I'll remember all the hours I spent working! It was a beautiful day, a whole lot of fun, and a true blessing to be there.

Lump in My Oatmeal

2010-10-14T07:58:00.000-07:00

. . . is it a lump in your oatmeal, lump in your throat or a lump in your breast? That's how a friend of mine categorizes her crisis. I have a lump in my oatmeal this morning. In heading out to drive to my new job I realized I'd left the car door ajar and I have a dead battery. Thank goodness I have road side assistance and now I'm waiting to be rescued. Guess I'll start reading my Vanity Fair.

2010-10-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

My friend Janet has been teasing me - she told me she ordered a gift for me as a way to say, "Congratulations on your new job." Tantalizing clues such as, "Macy's is having a sale on Sag Harbor line . . . Looks like Alfred Dunner is on sale . . . " brought visions of appliqued adult Garanimal clothing to mind.

Today she gave me the gift. She ordered it from eBay - she's been waiting weeks for it to arrive and apparently she's been searching for it for nearly a year. She brought me a second edition copy of Nancy and Plum - my all time favorite book - ever. It was written by Betty MacDonald - you may be more familiar with her Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle books or The Egg and I series. But Nancy and Plum was my favorite. This gift is priceless. This gift made me cry. I was speechless.

As an adult I've reread it several times - going to read again. It came from the public library of Mount Vernon, Ohio. Opening it I found that intoxicating, old book smell. Can't wait. I'll wrap myself up in a blanket, turn on the fireplace, make myself a nice cup of tea and enjoy.

One of the things I longed for as a kid was to be loved by people who 'knew me,' who 'got me,' who I belonged to - maybe that's why this book resonated with me - I wanted to go out and find where I really belonged. Funny thing - it's right here - this is where I belong. Thank you Janet for reminding me of that.

Big Changes

2010-09-25T07:57:00.000-07:00

I have a new job - it took four interviews with seven different people and six weeks of anxiety and anticipation but I got it! I accepted faster than a 25-year-old being asked on a date for the first time in her life, "Yes, I'll take the job!" - at which time the hiring manager suggested that I read the offer letter first. It made me feel a little like a professional athlete without the signing bonus! But I got the job and I started this week.

There is nothing more terrifying or more exhilarating than beginning a new position (okay, that's a slight exaggeration). Simply learning every one's name and their job titles is daunting enough but then to learn protocols and expectations of the job is huge - my mind is about to explode!

But I think I'm going to love working here. I don't like to be bored or 'try to look busy' and this job will keep me hopping! Not only that, it is close to home - 9.7 miles to be exact - I have awesome benefits - I can ride my bike to work - locker room and showers are available - and best of all, it is fascinating work with a deep learning curve - I like to add to my crazy repertoire of useless knowledge.

One of my biggest fears is that in today's difficult and competitive job market someone will think I am the Sarah Palin of the hiring pool, "Really, that's the best they could find?" I'm going to work crazy hard to avoid anyone thinking that!

No, really? 33 years ago?

2010-09-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

Melissa and Kelsey are celebrating their 33rd birthday today. It just doesn't seem like it's possible - how could that much time have passed?

They are the best moms and it is so rewarding to see them interact, teach and love their babies. Now they know how much I love them and I am so proud of them - every one of those 33 years have been a gift! Happy birthday Melissa! Happy birthday Kelsey!

Back to School

2010-09-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

It feels like a lifetime ago that my kids were starting school but I know it happened; I’ve got pictures to prove it. I can remember the fun/stress of clothes shopping, trying to figure out how to pay for everything, the shoes, pencils, backpacks and lunchboxes. For the first couple of years I sewed Melissa and Kelsey’s clothes – I would have sewn Peter’s too but boy clothes are a lot harder to look ‘store bought’. The flurry and anticipation after a lazy, laggard summer time was electrifying – I sort of miss that time. Good luck to all the new and old students – may we never stop learning.

Melissa, first day of kindergarten - Bennett Elementary

Kelsey, first day of kindergarten - Bennett Elementary

Peter, first day of kindergarten - Parkwood Elementary

Happy Mother's Day

2010-08-19T23:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know, Mother's Day was more than three months ago. . . but for me, today was my special day. Melissa and Kelsey gave me an "event" as a gift and Rachel joined us as we celebrated this evening. We attended an appetizer and canape class given by the Shorewood High School Culinary Arts program.

Getting ready to learn.

High hilarity in the kitchen!

Rachel looking ready to entertain.

Pretty and yummy too!

I'm a lucky mom!

Now we need to plan a party to practice all our new found skills!

A Whole Lotta Fun

2010-08-18T20:08:00.000-07:00

Abby & Meme hanging out together

Scout enjoying Melissa's deck

Penny looking for somewhere cool to hang out

Rachel showing Eli how to hula-hoop

The boys checking out race videos on Peter's i-phone 4

Eli and Abby sharing the same toy

I had a lot of fun baby-sitting Abby on Saturday and Sunday dinner with everyone!

The Belfast Cowboy

2010-08-09T19:00:00.000-07:00

I think I'm the only person in Seattle who had never been to the Gorge Amphitheater. That is not true anymore! I went to see one of my favorite's, Van Morrison last night. The venue is amazingly beautiful located just above the Columbia River. As we experience one of the coolest, gray and rainy summers I can remember, the hot sun was welcomed. I brought a coat and sweater and used neither. And Van, well Van the Man was amazing. At almost 66 years old, his voice was strong and powerful. He played some old - "Gloria", "Brown Eyed Girl", "Into the Mystic", as well as newer rhythm and blues. It was hard to stay in my seat and lucky for me - I was in a spot where I could let my dancing soul soar!

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

Guess Who . . .

2010-08-07T06:27:00.000-07:00

Turned 2!!

Seattle Century and Breakfast with Abby

2010-08-01T14:59:00.000-07:00

I rode the Seattle Century yesterday - not my best ride. Another flat tire (what's that about?) and really tired legs made for a very long day. But I got through it and maybe my next ride will be more fun.

The highlight of the weekend was breakfast with Abby! We have decided that the first Sunday of the month is family breakfast day. Kelsey and Brian didn't join us this Sunday because Kelsey is visiting her good college friend, Kenzie who lives in Tennessee.

Abby spilled a little apple juice on her cute dress so she was rocking in a white shrug, rompers and her new Ugg boots - she's pretty darn cute!

Busy!

2010-07-30T07:52:00.000-07:00

I've been busy! Although we've had a cool and cloudy summer I've been really lucky with my vacation choices. Last weekend I attended the 7th Annual Crawfish and Crab Feed on Camano Island - the weather was hot and beautiful. Along with experiencing Aquavit for the first time, I also tried out a paddle board and managed to keep my hair dry!

Monday and Tuesday I was on Whidbey Island for a girl's get-away. Golf, great salads, dancing and again, perfect weather! The gift of spending time with women that I've know for over 40 years . . . priceless! Thanks Teri for such a fun couple of days.

Girl's Night Out

2010-07-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

Abby and I had a girl's night out. She's pretty good company and has the best ideas.

We . . .

had a snack . . .

enjoyed nature . . .

looked around the neighborhood . . .

worked out (think, stairmaster) . . .

talked about hair styles . . .

danced . . .

and hung out by the water . . .

It was a good Friday night - thanks Abby!

The Bite

2010-07-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

My trusty steed and I went to the Bite of Seattle yesterday. I rode the Burke-Gillman trail - 100% flat the entire way with the exception of a short climb up Dexter to get to the Seattle Center. In my seemingly never ending desire to be a 'better" rider; stronger, faster, etc., I rode slowly - 10 MPH in to the bite. It took me an hour and a half to get there. But the weather was beautiful and the trail uneventful.

When I was married I always wanted to go to the Bite. My husband didn't like it at all - he hated the crowds. As I walked, or rather shuffled - the crowds were jam-packed, I suddenly understood his discomfort. I was really hungry and I couldn't decide what I wanted to eat. Maybe there were too many choices?

I decided on Mexican, found a seat in the grass and listened to a concert. On the way home I rode as fast as I could (partly because Penny and Scout needed their dinner!) and made it back in just short of an hour!

Let's Do Lunch!

2010-07-15T20:06:00.000-07:00

I used to sit at my desk and eat my lunch - it made the day drag on and I noticed that I ended up with a 'working' lunch rather than a time to stop, reflect and enjoy the day. So I stopped doing that and try to get out and take a walk or when the weather is cooperative I sit in my favorite courtyard; read, nap or just enjoy the sounds of the near-by water fall.

Wednesday and Friday the Seattle Park's Department offers a free concert. Wednesday I walked to 5th and Pine to sit out and enjoy the music. Today, in my favorite courtyard, I was treated to a couple practicing ballroom dancing - so serendipitous!

Monday Morning

2010-07-12T10:59:00.001-07:00

Part III and IV: Swim Party! Beach Fun!

2010-07-09T18:54:00.000-07:00

I have had an outstanding week off - what a great vacation. I'm not sure (especially considering the horrible spring and early summer we've endured) I could have chosen a better week. I got to spend a lot of time with Eli and Abby (and their moms whom I'm especially fond of!), got in a couple of great rides and overall, relaxed. It was a great idea to stick around home.

Thursday Melissa and Abby invited me to their backyard for a swim party. Kelsey and Eli joined us, as well as Melissa's neighbors daughter, also Michele (but spelled incorrectly - two 'Ls'???) and her daughter Zoe joined in the fun. Melissa served us a great lunch and Kelsey brought cookies and our choice of Popsicles! YUMMY!

Thursday night, mostly to get out of the heat of my house, I walked to downtown Edmonds to see Toy Story III. I highly recommend it even if you're not a kid - I laughed, cried, cringed, recognized and related. And, I cooled off. By the time I walked home it was pleasant out and I enjoyed one of the most beautiful sunsets I've seen this year.

Today, Melissa, Kelsey, Eli and Abby met me down at the Edmonds' beach and we were treated to a low tide where we saw, sea stars, jelly fish, hermit crabs and sea cucumbers. Eli enjoyed the trains that passed by and we walked by a construction site - nothing like seeing a steam shovel (probably not steam-driven) in real life!

Part II: Ride to Everett

2010-07-08T17:04:00.000-07:00

I took the Interurban Trail up to Everett to visit my friend Janet. This is my third year riding that trail and I think I finally got it down. It is so poorly marked - you really need to be familiar with the area and have an eagle eye to see the Interurban signs. I rode the last ten miles with a retired professor of physics from Iowa who was visiting his son in Mill Creek. He was on his way to visit friends in Port Ludlow. Next week he's leaving for a 2000 mile ride down the Oregon coast and eventually ending in Montana. That's the kind of retirement I want - he was inspirational!

Part I Of My Summer Vacation: Dog Park

2010-07-07T21:28:00.000-07:00

Melissa, Kelsey, Eli, Abby and I met at Edmond's Dog Park for an exercise romp for Penny, Scout and Sammy and a picnic for us! The weather was perfect and a good time was had by all. And boy, do I know how to pick the best week for vacation!

Abby gives Edmond's Dog Park a touchdown!

Today's Ride

2010-07-03T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today's ride took me to Camano Island and back. Not my favorite ride; a lot of traffic, no shoulder to speak of, and chip seal roads. I took a nasty fall trying to negotiate railroad tracks - I have another road tattoo on my knee and a sore shoulder but other than that I'm okay. 76 miles, felt a little fatigued but happy I went on the ride, got to see my aunt and cousins and that's a good thing, well worth the millions of cars, motor homes and semi-trucks! Of course the post gin and tonic didn't hurt either.

Man in the House!

2010-06-22T20:28:00.000-07:00

Eli came and spent Saturday night with me so Kelsey and Brian could have a little R & R. His language skills are amazing and it is so much fun to talk to him. We went on a walk to Starbuck's and he gave me a running commentary - "up the hill," "on the sidewalk," "fire hydrant," "big truck," "blue truck," "green light," "red light." When he got up in the morning I had to change Froggie's diaper before he agreed to have his changed. And, he's made friends with Penny and Scout. He would bend down with his hands on his knees and say, "Hello Penny!" in the sweetest little voice. Then he would look over at me and say, "Where's the other one!"

Flying Wheels!!

2010-06-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

I completed my second Flying Wheels - 100 miles - 6 hours, 36 minutes. Yes, my 54-year old legs are tired, yes it was an amazing day, especially the weather - we have not had a single DAY since May 14th that has been at least 70% sun and above 75 degrees but today it all came together - the sun shone and the ride was awesome!

It didn't begin well, Friday night I discovered my car had a flat tire. Finding that out Saturday morning would have been especially disappointing. Peter, my saviour, came over and fixed it and ever the police officer, he lent me his car since mine had the temporary tire and he was concerned about me going over 50 miles per hour.

But all's well that ends well - who cares about the 6 miles of hills at the 80th mile marker! What a great day.

I hate bananas and that is often what is offered at rest stops! Thank God for Luna Bars.

The Fabulous Birthday Boys

2010-06-06T13:14:00.000-07:00

Peter's birthday was this past week - my baby is 29 years-old, how is that possible? Brian's birthday was five days earlier so a birthday party was in order. Our fickle Seattle weather cooperated, a menu of BBQ pizza, berry pie and pineapple upside down cake were requested, the two little ones were adorable, having those that I love the most all under one roof . . . priceless - a perfect day!

My three favorite people!

Eli and his Meme toys

Thank You

2010-05-31T18:53:00.000-07:00

My father, Walter Medan, was a World War Two veteran. He served in the Navy - I really don't know any details beyond that. I wish he'd lived long enough for me to talk with him one adult to another - to appreciate what he did for me and for our country. He died on March 23, 1975. I thought of him today as I reflected on Memorial Day. I never had an opportunity to thank him but I do today. Thank you to all veterans and to active military personal - thank you for all the sacrifices you make in the name of our country.

If I Was a Baby, I'd be Crying . . .

2010-05-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

Those who know me are aware of my obsession with weather, specifically sunny weather. I often wonder how I have remained living in the northwest - well known for its propensity to gray skies and rainy, cool weather. My brown skin was made for warmer climates!

Imagine how I’m feeling this spring where the average temperature has been 55 degrees with gray skies and never-ending rain. I hate it when the weather reporters act all cheery when it looks like today – why aren’t they outraged like I am? I especially feel cranky when they promise nice weather and it ends up raining.

The bottom of my pants are wet as is my coat from the constant, unending rain they fell on me as I trekked up the hill from the train. On the ride in, I didn’t even look out the window at the normally beautiful Puget Sound because it was as gray as the sky and I didn’t want any more non color in my life.

Yes, I am a cranky, cranky baby about the weather. I am a ball of bitterness because I want to be warm and stop having to wear my winter clothing. I want at the very minimum 65 degrees and some – just asking for some – blue sky. That isn’t too much is it?

I temporarily squelched my inner wailing infant by stopping at Starbucks and treating myself to a mocha (non-fat, no whip) and a turkey-bacon breakfast sandwich. Somehow eating oatmeal would have added to my general malaise.

Sunday Morning Breakfast

2010-05-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

I love spending time with my children and grandchildren. This weekend I hit the trifecta! Saturday morning I came home from the gym to find Peter at my house for a visit. Later I met Kelsey and Eli at Costco for a little shopping. When I got home, Melissa, Charlie and Abby stopped by.

Sunday morning Kelsey, Eli, Melissa, Abby and I met for breakfast and playtime at Third Place Books. Eli still has a little of his black eye visible. Abby arrived just awake from her morning nap, she was a bit groggy but rallied to join in the fun. What a great weekend!

The omnipresent Dotty is featured in this picture with Abby. She has four of them just in case she loses one!

HGTV

2010-05-16T20:15:00.000-07:00

I did a little DIY work this weekend. Being the type of person who thinks that hard work and a strong vision can achieve just about anything; I am often disappointed by the break down between what I want and what I can do with my skill level. But not so for this weekend's project!

My little patio is one of my favorite places and these chairs have often been a resting place on the weekend or a warm summer evening. The natural wood had become aged and somewhat splintered and I decided that a little makeover was in order. My vision was something that felt tropical, colorful and exotic. Visiting my local Home Depot paint department I got a tutorial on the proper technique and I made a promise to myself to TAKE MY TIME - to somehow meld my vision with my ability! The picture above is after I sanded and primed the wood.

The paint color is what I would describe as a 'black raspberry' - I planned on making cushions but instead found a perfect matching set with my Caribbean color scheme at Marshall's and they were on sale! I plan on making some accent pillows to complete the look.

I am so happy with the outcome - this time my vision and the final results are one in the same! I can't wait for a warm summer morning, a good cup of coffee and the newspaper - let's see if Seattle's weather will cooperate.

Thar She Blows

2010-05-14T05:45:00.000-07:00

I ride the train almost every workday. It is a beautiful ride and I often see eagles, egrets - I saw a fish jump, and occasionally naked men, but just once I want to see a whale - I look every single day. Yesterday afternoon whales were spotted in my hometown of Edmonds! Excited for my afternoon ride home I even scored a window seat and I had my camera with me - all signs were pointed to whale finding success.

I saw . . .

My favorite water feature called Father and Son (Louise Bourgeois) . . .

My favorite little cove right by the Ballard Locks - this house has been for sale for at least the two years I've ridden the train - maybe someday it could be mine! . . .

Shilshole Bay Marina . . .

A man about to disrobe at the nude beach . . .

Lots of people and dogs at the off-leash park . . .

But, no whales. I'll keep looking cause I'm convinced I'll see one soon.

Nope, Not This Year

2010-05-05T05:40:00.000-07:00

MICHELLE ANN COUGAN,

Thank you for your interest in the LOTOJA CLASSIC and for taking the time to submit an online application. This year's response to our open registration period was at an all time high so it's taken some extra time to go through each and every application. We appreciate your patience.

This email is sent to inform you that your application was NOT SELECTED for the 2010 LOTOJA CLASSIC.

I received this email at 1:20 this morning.

I am truly disappointed - more disappointed than I expected. For nearly six months I have been nursing this dream. Even so there was a part of me that suspected I would be relived if I didn't get in simply because it is a big stretch for me. But lately I really visualized myself doing it and succeeding - I even picked out a background song that could play in my head during those especially grueling times when I would question whether I had the sort of determination to complete the ride.

You better lose yourself in the music, the moment

You own it, you better never let it go. You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow

This opportunity comes once in a lifetime yo

Lose Yourself, Eminem

Okay, I admit it, I am a closet rap music lover. I only listen to it when I'm working out or riding.

As far as the LOTOJA, maybe next year. Perhaps that will be a goal for my 55 year of life.

Always the Pollyanna I immediately began to consider the upside; my training schedule just got easier and who knows what new opportunities and experiences will fill this void of disappointment.

Still Waiting . . .

2010-05-04T18:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Brent,

I apologize for being one of the many emails you've no doubt received inquiring about entry into the LOTOJA. When I originally applied I never received a confirmation but when I emailed you regarding this you confirmed my entry. It is Tuesday, May 4th and I still have not received notification about my entry status and I am anxious to hear whether I've made the race. It is my understanding that today was the day I should learn whether I made the 'cut'. My registration ID # is: L7358******* and I registered on April 6, 2010.

Could you update me and let me know what my status is regarding the LOTOJA. Thank you for your attention and help with this. I look forward to your response.

Michelle Cougan

I just sent this email because I still haven't heard and now I'm feeling anxious. I'll keep you posted.

On Pins and Needles

2010-05-03T20:17:00.000-07:00

I find out tomorrow whether I was one of the lucky lottery winners who is selected to participate in the LOTOJA. I'm feeling anxious . . . excited that I might get to participate in one of the greatest challenges of my life . . . nervous that I might have to ride in one of the greatest challenges of my life. I'll let you know what the outcome is tomorrow . . .

Dessert in the Desert

2010-04-22T05:55:00.000-07:00

"Anything, everything, little or big becomes an adventure when the right person (persons) shares it."

Kathleen Norris

I'm not sure that vacations get any better than this one. My children, grandchildren and Melissa's husband Charlie and Peter's girlfriend Rachel, all escaped to Arizona, part to get away in the warmth and sun and part to share my birthday. The weather was perfect, Abby learned to walk, I played a million games of hoopy-de-ball (Eli's favorite), visited with my aunt and cousins, swam, relaxed and enjoyed the most perfect of company. It was a wonderful adventure and an even more wonderful birthday! Lucky? Blessed is more like it - I am one lucky lady.

Rachel, Eli, Abby and Melissa are inthralled by the fire truck video, or as Eli pronounces it, "fire-fire truck"

Abby's walking lessons

Eli enjoyed the giant bathtub - kind of his own personal pool!

Eli teaching Abby the finer points of how to

More practice

Eli loved the airport and was an excellent passenger!

Uncle Peter with Abby

It was a lovely vacation - hope we get to do it again!

Buckeye!

2010-04-15T22:09:00.000-07:00

Bright and early tomorrow morning I'm boarding an airplane with seven of my favorite people - you guessed it; I'm going on vacation with Melissa, Kelsey, Peter, Eli, Abby, Charlie and Rachel. We've rented a house in sunny, warm Buckeye, Arizona - five bedrooms and a pool - and we're going to play in the sun and enjoy spending time together. I can't wait! Pictures to come so stay posted. . .

Whose Afraid of the Easter Bunny???

2010-04-04T18:43:00.000-07:00

Apparently I'm not afraid of the Easter Bunny!

Bob, AKA, the Easter Bunny has been dressing up in this costume since Melissa and Kelsey were around 10 years old - so that makes this tradition 22 years-old! BZ, always the consummate hostess, had a wonderful lunch that included a visit from the Easter Bunny. She began the eggstravaganza with an Easter egg hunt and concluded with the Easter Bunny hopping on in to distribute gifts.

Everyone is ready to start the hunt!

BZ getting ready for the delicious lunch.

Abby is a little bit afraid of the Easter Bunny!

Kelsey had us all over for a wonderful breakfast. Peter and Eli enjoyed spending time in Eli's tent, reading about Eli's favorite subject, trucks.

We had a lot of fun at the Easter egg hunt in Eli's basement but from this picture it doesn't look like he had that great of time!

Good Friday

2010-04-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

This is Easter weekend. Tomorrow I will post all the pictures and highlights of my favorite people, my children and grandchildren, as we enjoy Easter egg hunts, delicious foods and candy, laughter and joy with spending time together. It is a true blessing to have these people in my life. But for today, I am posting a much more sober reflection from one of my favorite books I read daily, Prayers for a Planetary Pilgrim by Edward Hays.

The Passion and Death of Jesus Christ According to St. Thomas

Today I come to you – yes, you – and say, “Look out your windshield or into the window of your television, and let us go up; to Neon Jerusalem and die with him. Come along with me to the city park of Gethsemane, where Jesus suffers the sweaty-palm agony of the sick and those dying of the deadly diseases, AIDS and cancer. Tomorrow is their Good Friday; tonight their lonesome vigil. Come, let us go and die with him.

“Come and look – stare if you like – Jesus is stripped of his clothing, exposed to shame in those stripped of their jobs, naked by the loss of their homes and possessions, disrobed of their dignity.

“Come, stand and watch, helpless by habit, as is Jesus is mocked and ridiculed by the centurions of society, in being the butt of crude minority jokes and tongue-cutting, clever discrimination humor. Join the crowd and let your silence or laughter lash away at him.

“Don’t turn away from the pain; see the crown of thorns upon his head in the form of each one who is mentally ill, their foreheads pierced by deep depression. There he is as a bag lady muttering to herself, or, there, see him sitting and staring out the window of a ward.

“See the crowd press closer, and you can view him being scourged by physical or mental abuse. Watch, don’t turn away your prudish eyes: see him sexually abused in a confused and forever crippled little child. Genuflect if you like, or bow in reverence.

“Turn your head, we’re passing a prison; behind those walls and bars sits Jesus as an innocent man or woman – even in those guilty of some crime. Jesus – in the person of one unjustly tried and condemned, lacking a clever lawyer, or a victim crippled by poverty or a broken home – is caged in a crowded cell.

“Come with me up Main Street of Neon Jerusalem; watch Jesus go by in all disabled persons carrying their crosses in the daily passion parade and in those back-bent with the heavy burdens of life. Where is a Simon from Cyrene, Texas or Minnesota, who will life a hand to raise a wheelchair, open a door or lift with compassion the crosses they bear. Ah, how quickly he has passed.

“Come with me, let us go up the trashy hill of 10,000 Calvarys, look how in the body of the needy they have nailed him secure for life to the icy cold cross of poverty. Stand with me at the foot of millions of crosses shouldered in the midday darkness of hopelessness. Listen to that piercing cry riding on the wind of a year of Good Fridays, “My God, why, why have you abandoned me?”

“Come, let us go up to Neon Jerusalem and die with him – suffer with him, be shamed with him, be imprisoned with him, feel the lash of laughter, be mocked for a lack of money, sweat blood with him in a slow painful death and hold out our hands to be nailed for life.”

Visitor!

2010-03-29T19:48:00.000-07:00

It's the beginning of Holy Week and as the tradition of the Chancery, we had an all day retreat today. It is a wonderful way to begin this very special time in the Christian calendar. As an added bonus we were given the afternoon off and because of that I happened to be home when Melissa and Abby surprised me with a fun and spontaneous visit!

Sunday Night Dinner

2010-03-28T20:29:00.000-07:00

Pretty sure there is nothing more fun than Sunday night dinner that includes all my children, their spouses and significant others and two of the cutest children I know! Melissa and Charlie (suspect more Melissa than Charlie) made a fabulous brisket, Kelsey and Brian brought a yummy salad, Peter and Rachel, bread and wine and me - dessert!

Melissa and Abby open up a belated birthday gift.

Eli arrives!

Brian and Charlie

Dinner is served!

Abby Has a Birthday!

2010-03-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

How can it already be one year ago that Abby was born . . . how is that possible? I guess the bigger question is; how can my baby girl Melissa be old enough to have her own child. That's the universal question that every mother asks. But it is true and I'm happy to report that Melissa is an extraordinary mother and Abby Malley is one lucky little girl to have her as her mom!

Looking at this picture I have to say that I am one lucky lady to have such wonderful children and grandchildren. Aren't they the greatest?

Happy Birthday Abby!

Not so Chilly and Just Sort of Hilly

2010-03-03T05:35:00.000-08:00

Cascade Bike Club's annual "kick the season off" ride was Sunday. Named for the fact that the Puget Sound is not known for pleasant weather in February and the route around Bainbridge Island is hilly - the Chilly Hilly is also the sort of ride that a lot of first time cyclist take on. This year's ride was no exception and proved to be wildly popular because the weather forecast was for unseasonably warm and sunny weather. And for the most part - it was sunny-ish and warmer. One year I rode in side-ways rain and so cold I thought I'd never warm up again.

I was so taken in by Jeff Renner's forecast that I wore shorts and my lighter weight cycling jacket. A little error in judgement on my part. When I was riding I was perfectly comfortable - but on the ferry I about froze.

My friend Jennifer rode with me - a year ago we met on the trip to Viet Nam. She's wearing the yellow jacket in the center of the picture. All in all it was an excellent ride and I was happy with my two hour and twenty minute riding time but I have a long way to go to reach my average speed goal. Hey, I'm working on it!

Need vs. Want

2010-02-25T18:08:00.000-08:00

The flowers got me thinking about need vs. want. What do I need? What do I want? What is the difference and where do the two meet?

I try to live in a way where I am conscious of these two concepts. I guess we can agree; food, shelter and clothing are the basics of needs. I want good food and a nice glass of wine to accompany it but I just need enough calories to sustain me, a house that I feel secure and comfortable in - I only need a place to cover my head and keep me warm, and clothing I feel ‘cute’ wearing, well, enough said - definitely a want. As I reflect I see I really have much more than I ever need and really, few of my wants ever go without being fulfilled. Lucky.

And this brings me back to the flowers. I went to Ash Wednesday Mass at Christ Our Hope (http://christourhopeseattle.org/site/Home.html), the newest church in the Archdiocese of Seattle. Located in the Josephium, a building that has gone from the heights of luxury to the depths of almost destruction, also doubles as a homeless shelter. The new church is centered on volunteerism, service, outreach and inclusion of all people. In the lobby one of the resident pointed out to me huge bags of flowers. Apparently florist at Pike Place Market send their "past pull date" flowers to the lobby of the Josephium every week. Thrusting a bouquet of slightly wilted-looking roses in my hand she remarked, “They’re free, come back and get more each week.” I brought them home, trimmed off the dead and discolored petals, and placed them in vases. I've enjoyed seeing them and my inner miser has felt especially happy.

How many other things do I overlook because they are shopworn, out of style, or I’m just plain bored with? Thinking about it, I could live for a year without buying anything other than perishables. I suspect I could find beauty in all sorts of free things with just a little extra effort. Maybe I'll ponder that - or at least try a little harder to be mindful of my needs vs. wants.

My Mom

2010-02-09T20:19:00.000-08:00

My mom died four years ago this Thursday. She developed a septic infection and was unable to fight it off - she fell into a coma and eleven days before her 78th birthday she quietly slipped away.

The Thursday evening before she played cards at my aunt's house and left early because she wasn't feeling well. Later that night she asked her boyfriend Ramon (I always refer to him as her Latin Lover) to take her to the hospital. Early Friday morning my aunt called to tell me I needed to get to Arizona, my mom was dying.

My mom didn't speak English until she was six years old. Her parents were Canadian French and that was the language spoken at home. Shortly before her six birthday my grandparents bought a logging camp and because it wasn't a suitable place for two young girls to live she and my aunt were sent to a Catholic boarding school in Vancouver B.C. where she lived until she was 16 years old. My grandparents decided to move to the States and my mom completed her high school education at Broadway High School.

By her own account she was boy-crazy. She met my father, a sailor on leave, while riding with a girl friend down Broadway Avenue. "Hey sailor, sailor, sailor!" It must have been enough to impress my father - I have no idea how long they courted or any of the other details of their romance. I do know that she and my aunt were married on June 29, 1946, in a double Catholic ceremony wearing the exact same wedding dress that my mom hated. She and my father, Walter Medan, left for a week long honeymoon at Yellowstone Park. They stopped in Butte, Montana to meet Walt's parents who refused to come to the wedding because it was in a Catholic church. Somehow they ended up going with my mom and dad on their honeymoon - is it any surprise that their marriage ended in divorce 16 years later?

In 1963 she married Richard Moody - they met while she was working as a hostess at Marie's in Greenwood. He was an interesting fellow and at 33 years old he was to begin his third marriage. Somehow that was not discouraging to my mom - they remained married until his death in 1996.

To this day I am still surprised that she is gone. She was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Although she gave me fits, I still miss her.

The Dog Days of Blogging

2010-01-26T20:01:00.000-08:00

I've been a really bad blogger lately. My life is one exciting minute after another and I haven't had a moment to stop and reflect and actually write something. Okay, that is a big fat lie; the truth is I can't think of anything worth writing about. So I'll give you a run down on some good things that have happened lately.

I had a lovely dinner with my good friend Denise (Seattle University) and she thought it would be a good idea using my i-phone to take a picture of us . . . she's using it as her Facebook picture, really? Is that a good idea?

Sunday night I had a great dinner with Eli and Abby (oh, Melissa, Kelsey, Brian and Charlie were there too). I received my first "real" kiss from Eli and let me tell you gentle reader - there is nothing better. I admit there hasn't been a lot of kissing lately but Eli's kiss made up for the desert these lips have experienced. There is nothing more special than an 18-month old kiss!

Abby is getting close to walking. Twice during the evening she stood on her own. And can that girl smile? She is the happiest little gal I've ever met.

I had a wonderful trip to Tucson with my dear friend Teri - in fact, I was her first guest in her new "sort-of" retirement home. We golfed, we cycled, ran, drank plenty of wine, visited her son, a sophomore at University of Arizona (imagine how thrilled he was with that) and overall, had a great time. I'm thinking retirement (if I ever get there) will be pretty darn fun.

Okay, that's all I've got. Sometimes having nothing going on is a good thing.

2010 Plans

2010-01-07T19:09:00.000-08:00

I figured if I write down this year's plans for my cycling adventures and then broadcast them to all of you - it nails down the commitment factor. You're going to help keep me training and focused!

Chilly Hilly ( http://www.cascade.org/EandR/chilly/index.cfm) February 28th. This will be my third Chilly Hilly and it is a wonderful way to kick-start the cycling season.
Reach The Beach (http://rtb.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=294027) May 15th. I think I'm going to go for the century this time.
Chelan Multi-Sport Tri-A-Tri ( http://www.chelanman.com/) July 18th. I just might step it up a little and go for the full sprint. It is the swimming that gets to me - that open water really intimidates me!
Lotojac (http://www.dailymile.com/events/11339-lotoja-20100 September 11th. This is the big one. This is what I like to do; push myself in such a way that I am waaaaay out of my comfort zone. In fact, this is such a big challenge to me that I am actually hiring a personal trainer for a couple of sessions to help me prepare for this one.

The morning of New Year's day I awoke feeling so refreshed; joyful, hopeful and happy. I have high hopes for 2010 - my cycling adventures certainly contribute to those happy feelings. I wish each of you wonderful surprises, lots of blessing, joy and hope for 2010. Happy New Year!!!

It's a Wonderful Life

2009-12-29T13:57:00.000-08:00

My unflagging optimism has been taking a hit.

December 23^rd – 6:00PM I discover my bag has been stolen out of my gym locker only to further discover my car has been stolen. They have everything – I report all this to the police, wait patiently for all of the information to be processed – call my bank and credit card companies – spend the night at a friend’s house since my car keys and personal information is all with "them" – it’s too late to call the locksmith – that can wait until Christmas Eve – I feel violated – my personal space and security has been compromised. Because it is the holiday all the banks are closed – I have no access to my bank account or credit cards – my bank FedExed a new card to me but it won’t arrive until Saturday. I have no make-up – all of that was in my gym bag so I discover that my Nordstrom card was not touched - I don’t keep it in my wallet. I go to the Bobby Brown counter Christmas Eve morning and explain my dilemma, “Make me up and I’ll buy everything you put on me.” It had to have made that sales girl’s day. That was a bright spot – who actually gets to begin with all new make-up? Don’t we all accumulate that stuff over time, filled in with the extra bonus samples we’re given when we buy at certain times?

Around 3:00AM Christmas Eve morning I receive a call – waking up from a dead sleep in a strange bedroom the voice of a police officer informs me that my car has been recovered and they are sending out a officer to pick me up to identify items left in the car. Two XXL shirts, a book and a container of party mix I made are the only things left in the car. I tell the officers that the two shirts are not mine but the rest is. The interior reeks of cigarettes. The funny thing about the book is that they took it out of my backpack and put it in the backseat but took everything else. I guess reading isn’t their thing.

My neighbor Craig comes over to give me some cash, explaining that no woman should be without money. My other neighbor Ken, unbeknownst to Craig does the same thing. My children all call, my friends, acquaintances from my health club – they all take time to contact me to make sure I’m okay.

On top of all this I get the stomach flu Christmas night and Monday morning woke-up with a cold.

It is frustrating, hurtful and violating to have someone take things from you and wears on you when you’re not feeling well. But what I discovered in this difficultness is that I am living a “Wonderful Life.” Just like George Bailey felt that his world was crashing down around him (admittedly things weren’t that bad for me) friends and family and strangers extended themselves to help. That’s a pretty good feeling. It also brought home in a real way that I am lucky to have the safety nets I have and how devastating this sort of thing can be to those who live on the margins.

So this is how my year is ending and how a tumultuous decade is coming to an end. Things can only look up and they have started to do just that. I am a happy, confident woman who is much better off than she was at the beginning of the decade. I am looking with joy and hopefulness to the future. It is indeed a wonderful life.

Traditions!

2009-12-21T19:47:00.000-08:00

Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one. ~Jane Howard

Thirty-two years ago in a tiny house in Lake City we had our first of what has become a cherished tradition – the Cougan/Davis Christmas dinner. That first year BZ made BBQ chicken, mashed potatoes and decorated the rafters of her house with gingerbread men each bearing one of our names. Kip was almost three years-old, Melissa and Kelsey just three months. We shared the joys and burdens of being young parents, still students, no money, few possessions but lots of energy and love for our growing families. If we knew then this would grow into a lifelong gathering I’m sure we would have taken pictures. Of course at that time we weren't able to afford the cost of processing the photos!

Over the years our children grew less wilder – things quieted down, the meals became more gourmet - our houses changed and we established a rhythm – I took the odd years, BZ the even. There was the year an ice storm struck about an hour before we were to leave for the Davis house. Taking nearly an hour to travel three miles Walt announced that we wouldn’t be able to go further without risking life and limb. I called BZ and she dissolved in tears after all the hours and expense she went to making a crown pork roast for the first time. Megan invited all of her high school friends and they enjoyed her lovingly prepared meal.

Then there was the year I was facing Christmas alone – BZ said you’re sad and your life feels like it’s over but it’s your year and we’re coming over for our annual dinner. Bob made a beautiful toast promising my children and me that he and BZ would be there to always love us and give any needed help or advice. The only time I got a postponement, not a pass mind you, was when I had surgery in mid-December.

The kids tell stories now - how they tortured one another; making Kelsey play the McDonalds worker while Megan and Melissa were two girls shopping, stopping in for a quick bite to eat – how each time Peter got up from his plate they would play with his food or spit on it.

We gathered this year at Melissa and Charlie’s house because we now number 18 and my house is way too small to accommodate a sit down dinner for that many. I still did all the food preparation – we co-hosted so in that way the mantle is slowly turning. Now with five grandchildren we have returned to those wild and hectic gatherings. Still, it is a beautiful thing – to look around the room and see how our families have grown. We’ve added new in-laws who have fitted in seamlessly, and there has been major changes – difference that we didn’t ask for or imagined so many years ago. The end result is a beautiful tapestry of love - a family of choice - memories that we all cherish. What a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas!

Memories

2009-12-11T20:40:00.000-08:00

This year marks my 54^th Christmas. That seems like a lot when I spell it out yet I’m hoping I still have a few more ahead of me. Some of the years I have no memory of at all, some memories run together, and still others stand out very clearly.

There was the year we were robbed – the one and only time I would have received jewelry someone broke into our house and stole the diamond necklace as well as jeans for Peter, socks for Melissa and Kelsey and a variety of other unremarkable things.

When we were new parents – still students, W thought he was going to get a big bonus like they gave the year before, instead he got a coupon for a turkey. He went out and bought the girls a Flintstone bowling game and me a People magazine. That was the year we put the Christmas tree in the playpen so the girls couldn’t play with the ornaments.

The worst Christmas was a lesson well learned and one I’ve never forgotten. Sometimes anticipation is the very best part of any situation.

Left alone for a couple of hours Suzanne and I began to discuss what we thought we were getting. We knew where our mom hid her latest purchases and I, letting my curiosity get the best of me, decided to take a quick peek. I only saw one thing, a mohair sweater – all the rage that year, and I shared this news with Suzanne. Suzanne being the very pious Catholic girl she was (emphasis on was) decided that her knowledge of this forced her to share with our mother my sinful behavior- not quite sure why she had to do that but the consequences were big for me.

My mom made me look at every present she bought and she wasn’t pleasant about it. I found out a week before Christmas morning that I would receive Bonnie Bride, a red pleated skirt to go with that mohair sweater and new pajamas. Not only was I in trouble for looking, I had a real let down Christmas morning when I knew exactly what I was getting.

It seems I often end my post with some remark about how blessed I feel . . . I hope this doesn’t come across as insincere for truly, I do feel blessed. This Christmas will be special because I get to spend it with my children and grandchildren. The two little ones are still a little too young to really understand all the fun they’re going to have but just the same, it adds to the beauty of the season.