Saturday, February 29, 2020

Facebook Friend Requests

I go through periods on Facebook where I receive a good many friend requests.  Not hundreds, mind you, but enough to make me expand my friends list.  Now, I use to be one of those people that wanted lots of FB friends just because the numbers looked good.  But now that I am more careful and discerning on FB, I do actually take the time to look at profiles before I accept a friend request.

Generally, if a request comes from someone I actually know, I will not look too carefully at the profile before accepting.  And by this I mean someone I've met in real time...a family member, someone from college, a friend from my childhood in Monroe.  I already have some sort of past with this person, so I'm a little more lenient about it.

When I get a request from someone I don't know, I do take the time to look at his/her page.  Usually we have mutual friends and that's how I get the request to begin with.  If most of our mutual friends are people I actually know, that helps in my decision making process.  But if most of our friends are simply online acquaintances, then I look a little more closely.

My profile is private in that unless we're friends already, you can't see much of what I post.  If I come across a profile such as this in my requests, I will most likely take a chance on someone.  Hey, it's all about getting to know other people, right?  Sometimes it works out, sometimes not. 

My biggest hangup with friend requests is politics.  I don't want politics on my page and I want as little as possible in my feed.  And I mean politics of any kind...Democrat, Republican...doesn't matter which to me.  If I look at someone's profile and 9 out of 10 posts are about politics, then I will deny the friend request.  This is not a reflection of that person, per say, it's just that I don't want all of that crap on my feed.  And if that is what that person is all about on social media, that is certainly fine but just not for me.  They are probably a good person, but since we don't know each other, I'm totally ok with not being online friends.  I use to feel very guilty about that, but not any more.  I don't want to accept someone's request and then immediately unfollow them because of their posts.  What's the point of that?

I also get irritated when I accept a friend request and automatically the person starts asking questions that are answered already on my page.  It shows me that they didn't even bother looking and their request is based on my profile picture.  Granted, it's usually a good picture so I can't blame them there LOL  But I'm so like "Did you even look at my page?"  but I don't ever say it because I don't want to be rude.  Maybe I should be haha  And this goes for all of my profile pages on other sites too.  It just irks me when people don't pay attention.  Ah, well.

So, that's my thought for this morning.  I guess I need to check out my friend requests and see who I want to get to know!

That is all.

Thursday, February 27, 2020

Letter Writing

It's really no secret that I love writing letters and cards.  I find it a very relaxing activity.  I do feel badly sometimes, though, for the people on the receiving end who have to try and decipher my handwriting.  It's definitely not the best and, by handwriting, I mean my print.  I don't write in cursive because NO ONE would be able to read that.  Of course, if I wrote letters on those huge pages that we learned to write in cursive in Mrs. Whitley's 3rd grade class you might be able to read it!

I love the happiness that it brings to me and hopefully to others.  I never expect anything in return, but it is very nice to come home to something in the mail that isn't a bill or junk.  As a child, there was just something exciting about it.  Knowing that someone has taken time out of there day to think of me enough to put pen to paper.  And I carry that feeling into my adulthood.  I love getting letters and it's always such a nice surprise.  Cards, too!  Getting that birthday or Christmas card is divine!

I realize that letter writing is very old fashioned in this age of technology, but to me it's a much more personal connection than simply sending an email or instant message.  I still do that, but I do prefer letter form.  In my mind, too, I feel like I'm keeping more people employed by handwriting letters.  I have to buy the stationary and cards, which someone makes and sells.  I have to buy the stamps, which someone makes and sells.  I give something extra for mail person to put in their bag...even though they may not appreciate that as much as I do  haha!

Something Mom instilled in me when writing cards is to never simply sign a card.  Always write a note to make it more personal, whether it's a paragraph or one sentence.  Just signing it will not do!  And so I can't just sign a card, I have to write something.  That can be daunting, like when I did Christmas cards for my residents....that was about 160 personal notes, but I got it done and felt pretty accomplished afterwards! 

So, here it is almost the end of February 2020 and I've only written 18 letters and cards so far this year.  I must up my game here.  I do keep track of who I write to so that I don't repeat too often.  I always hope to write one per day, but that doesn't happen, obviously, and settle for several per week.  Still, I try!  I do it and it makes me happy.  And hopefully it brightens someone else's day just a little.  That's what is important.  So who knows, a letter from me just might be in your future!

Now, I need to go buy stamps.

That is all

Monday, February 24, 2020

Recipe of the week - Chicken in Southwest Cream

I found this recipe online on my journey to make more low carb dishes.  We tried it and really enjoyed it.  It will definitely become part of my cooking repertoire.  It's relatively easy and quick, so good for cooking on a weeknight after a long day at work.

Chicken in Southwest Cream
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 medium chicken breasts, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, diced
4.5 ounce can of green chilies
1 1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup shredded cheddar

Brown chicken in oil, adding onions about halfway through.  Once the onions begin to soften, add garlic and cook a few more minutes.  Once chicken is thoroughly browned, add chilies, cumin and heavy cream.  Simmer until sauce begins to bubble and thicken.  Add cheddar and stir until melted.

If you're not looking for a completely low carb meal, this would be great over rice or pasta.  Also, I used chicken thighs that I cut into strips instead of dicing and it worked out great!

Enjoy!

Saturday, February 22, 2020

Working on my appearance

I've been reading a book called Elegance by Kathleen Tessaro.  It's one of the used books I got for a quarter at the local bookstore.  The plot blurb on the jacket sounded interesting, so I thought why not.  I do enjoy a good "transformation" story.  It's about a woman who comes across a used book about elegance in a local shop (there's a parallel for you) and how her life changes.

Not that this book is going to change my life, per say, but it has gotten me thinking about my appearance.  And I've realized that I don't necessarily take much care in my appearance.  Not that I'm a slob by any means, but I don't really put any effort into it either.  I used to, years ago, but that was then and this is now.  I don't really know why I stopped.  Maybe part of me has become more comfortable with life and knowing I can just throw on a pair of pants and a button down shirt and call it a day means I don't really have to think about it.

I'd like to change that.  I do not wish to become obsessed about it, but I do want to put more time into it because, like most of us, I feel better when I think that I look good.  And I'm talking about little things that I can do to be better groomed.  I don't really keep my beard shaped.  I keep it trimmed, but not shaped and I have all these razors and shaving gels just sitting on the shelf unused.  If these things are going to take up space on the shelf, I might as well put them to use.

Another thing, especially at work, is to tuck in my shirt.  This is not a dress code requirement at work, but I definitely carry myself differently when I do it.  I stand up straighter and my shoulders are broader and it just looks better.  I think I've done it once since starting in customer service there.  And I actually did get lots of compliments that day.  Hmmmmm  Maybe add a jacket and tie once in awhile.  I have jackets I never get to wear and ties that haven't been worn in decades.  Again, taking up useful space.  I should bring them out every now and then.

I also have jewelry that I never wear.  Watches, rings, pins, cufflinks, etc.  They just sit around not being appreciated.  Well, that's not true.  I appreciate them, I just don't wear them.  And lots of family things I could use to enhance my appearance.  I just let them collect dust LOL

That's not to say I have to do this every day, even though I can work towards that goal.  But, if I can get myself in the habit of better grooming, I know I will feel better.  We'll see how that goes.

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

And the snow is finally coming...maybe...could be

Well, the weathermen are calling for snow tomorrow.  Of course, the degree to which it will fall changes every hour.  Could be a dusting, could be 1-2", could be 4".  Who knows!  But, when you work in the service industry...especially healthcare or with senior citizens...snow days don't really mean anything other than it's snowing.  We don't shut down for that.  I enjoy snow, but I enjoy it when I'm at home and don't have to go anywhere.  Driving in it is not exactly the most fun thing I've ever done.  But, I will do it and get through it. 

Anyway, the prediction of snow always brings back many great memories from childhood.  Today, I've had 2 memories prevailing in my mind.  One was when I was in 2nd or 3rd grade, maybe.  Mom and Dad worked on Tuesday nights and we would be with Grandmother.  Sometimes at our house, sometimes at hers.  This particular Tuesday we were at home and it started snowing about 8:30 or so.  Mom got off of work at 9 p.m. (she taught the DWI classes those nights).  And I remember we excitedly called her to let her know it was snowing, not that she couldn't have seen that herself, but I was 9 and didn't think of it.  Grandmother wanted to call because Mom would have to stop at her house on the way home and pick up her things as she would be staying the night.  I always loved it when Grandmother spent the night with us.  And I remember turning on the back patio light and seeing the snow falling.  We had a very old picnic table then that was red.  You'd get stain on you when you sat on its benches LOL  I just remember watching the snow fall and slowly covering the table.  Nothing really more to the memory, but I still enjoyed it.

The other memory took place a few years earlier than that one.  And, honestly, I can't remember if there was actual snow involved or not.  I wasn't in school yet, but we had a bitterly cold winter.  Highs were in the teens or lower. Our heat went out.  And even though we had a working fireplace, we packed up the car and went to Grandmother's.  She had heat!  I just remember feeling safe and warm there.  I believe our cousin Isabel was there as well because I remember they played a lot of bridge and Bill wouldn't have been old enough yet.  And I got to explore the house and play with lots of treasures.  Under the circumstances, it was great fun to me!

Anyway I guess we shall see if it snows tomorrow or not.  Either way, I will be at work.  As long as it's just snow, I should be fine.  Keep your fingers crossed.

That is all :)

The Continuing Adventures of Just a Waiter - employee of the year

Yes, much to my surprise, this happened!

We have a program at HG where each month one of the associates is chosen as "Star of the Month" for their outstanding contributions to the community.  At the end of the year, from those 12 stars is chosen "Star of the Year".  It's a great honor and comes with a nice bonus.  I got my star of the month last February for the work I was doing down in dining at our assisted living facility.  I was surprised to have gotten it, but was happy to take the bonus that also comes with being star of the month.

I was not sure how good my chances were since I have since changed departments.  But, I think I have done some good things as a CSR to enhance our community.  The thing is, though, I don't do these things for a prize.  It's just who I am.  It is the amazing work ethic I've been blessed with, thanks to my parents.  I stop and think about what I might want if I were in the shoes of my residents.  Those things that are just a little extra to make someone feel special, to make their day a little better and easier.  The same for my coworkers.  What can I do to help them out to make our team run smoother.  I'm happy to do it and it gives me a better sense of purpose at work.

I had a little hint that I might get the award.  But, life as taught me not to put all of my eggs in one basket.  Too many times I have been told I had something and then it was taken away without warning, so these kinds of hints must be taken with a grain of salt. Still, I'm very glad it happened and I'm proud of my achievements.

That is all :)

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

Some things I want in a house some day

I love our house, but like most houses, it lacks things that I wish we had.  I spend a lot of my time inside my brain thinking of the houses of my childhood, which you have probably picked up on.  Not only the house I grew up in, but the family homes spread throughout the state.  And I think to myself, I would love to have "fill in the blank" in my next house.  We all do that, I believe.  So, combining my memories with watching HGTV whenever I get the chance (we don't get that channel anymore so if I see it, it's at work during lunch), I have come up with a list of things I want in my forever home one day.  Obviously, these are mostly negotiable haha

Linen closet

We don't have a linen closet and I really want one.  I don't really care if it's in a bathroom or bedroom or its own entity, but this would solve some storage problems.  Right now, our linens sit in several different baskets and containers throughout the house.  It would be great for them all to be in the same place!

Pantry

A pantry would be another storage solver.  It feels like no one ever has enough cabinet space for everything and a pantry would help that immensely.  We didn't have one in the house I grew up in, but Aunt Sara's house had two in the dining room.  They were always packed with food and it seems so convenient, especially if you shop in bulk.

Awnings

I just like them, that is all.  Aunt Mary Lee had awnings on her home in Raleigh and I always loved how they looked in pictures.  We had metal ones on this house that were taken off before we moved in.  It would've been nice to have kept them because our mailbox is on a porch column and if it rains, we have we bills LOL

Screened in porch

It'd be so nice to use this during the spring and fall, when the temperatures are changing but not extreme.  I love a good porch, which we do have, but I'd love it more screened in!

Bay window

Something else I love the look of.  And it doesn't necessarily have to be a bay window with seating.  I always remember Aunt Sara's dining room had a good sized bay window in it, big enough for a 48" round table to fit into.  Alas, it was removed by a future owner, but I still love them!

Glass Cabinets

Grandmother had glass cabinets in her breakfast room and, in retrospect, I really loved them.  Once I really started to love antiques, I used to go into her breakfast room and just stare at all of the treasures she had in there.  And, of course, it's much easier to find things if you can see through the doors!

Front Hall/Entry

I love the idea of a front hall.  I think of it as the welcoming point into someone's home.  It gives you an idea of what the rest of the house will be like.  It sets the tone for everything.

Mantles

Considering that we live in a house built in the early 40's, I'm still surprised that we do not have any fireplaces and mantles here.  I grew up with those and would love to have one or two or eight :)  I don't necessarily need a working fireplace, even though there is nothing quite like having a real fire going in the fireplace, but I love decorating mantles, not only during the holidays but all year round.

So, that's my list.  Maybe one day, lottery pending, I will have some of the things on it!

That is all

Monday, February 17, 2020

Recipe of the week - Dr. Bird Cake

This is a recipe of Mom's that I stumbled across in a pile of recipes I was going through this weekend.  She always made this for any kind of bake sale that she was asked to participate in and, admittedly, the cake always sold quickly.  This appears to be a variation of a Hummingbird Cake, which is also very good so look that up.  I baked this the other day and was very pleased with how it turned out.  It was the first time I used my new bundt pan and my new Kitchen Aid mixer, so thanks to Lois and Doug for the Christmas presents!!  Enjoy!

Dr. Bird Cake
3 c. Flour
1 tsp. soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 c. sugar
1 1/2 c oil
1 8oz can crushed pinapple (do not drain)
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
3 eggs
2 c. diced bananas

Mix in order given.  Fold in bananas last.  Bake in tube or bundt pan at 325 for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on your oven. 

Delicious!

Sunday, February 16, 2020

The 60 day challenge - decluttering the home

The other day I ran across an article about getting rid of clutter in the home.  I know that this is something that we all deal with.  Well, most of us anyway.  I know I do!  There is a big difference in having too much stuff and having too much junk.  I have a lot of stuff, thanks to things being passed down from family members.  I love my stuff and I use most of it, or at least I try to.  I do, however, have my fair amount of junk.  It just builds up and half the time I have no clue where it came from. Poof!  There it is!

Anyway, the article I read listed 60 things to get rid of.  The author explains under each listing exactly what he means because he certainly doesn't mean to get rid of it all.  That's not what he's saying.  For example, the first item on the list is books.  No, don't throw away all your books.  He suggests that you go through the books that you have actually read and get rid of the ones that you know you will never read again.  I have a lot of books as I have learned to really enjoy reading.  And I find them aesthetically pleasing as well.  I like having books around.  But, I could stand to get rid of some I will never pick up again.  My bookcase is full and I have books all over.  I need to cull them so I can get them all into my bookcase.

I am going to take this list and challenge myself to work on one thing each day.  And once I'm done with the list, I will review and see which items need to be revisited.  I function much better in my home when everything is in its place.  I don't always get that done, even knowing this about myself.  So, anything that will help will be appreciated! 

This week I will be looking at:
Books
Old Towels
Movies I'm not watching
Magazines and newspapers
Worn out socks
Pens without ink
Old couch pillows

We'll see how this goes.  I'll update next week!

The Lord Bless You and Keep You

This song has been playing in my mind a lot lately.  Partly, it is because the choir at First Baptist in Monroe sang this often and the choir was such an important part of our church life.  I cherish those memories.  Also, I have been thinking a lot about church itself and how I really need to get back into it.  I haven't been in a long time and I do get the irony that I'm sitting here writing this while the 11:00 service is about to begin.  But here I sit with my music and coffee...my usual morning routine.  Ah, well.

I do enjoy church.  I enjoy the ritual of it.  It's not for everyone and that's fine.  But there was a time in my life where going to church was central to my existence and I miss that.  Of course, that was 30 years ago, but still the memory is there.  It may never be the same as how I remember it, but I can go into it knowing it will be a different experience and yet, still satisfying to me.

The church I started going to a few years ago is great but I somehow still feel like an outsider every time I go.  What it boils down to is 2 different things.  One, I don't have any family or close friends that go there and it gets lonely sitting on a pew by myself.  Sure, I know people there, but that's different.  It would be nice to have someone to share this experience with.  I use to sit in the same pew every Sunday and I started to notice that I was always by myself there.  There were times that the group of people that sat on the pew behind me would cram 12 people in that pew and here I sat all alone.  It kind of sucked.  The other things is that I don't know how to give back to the church here.  I'm not talking about tithing, which I can't really afford right now.  But I want to be involved and I just don't know how...nothing has panned out that I have tried.  I joined a committee that faltered after a few months because we didn't know exactly what we were supposed to be.  I joined the handbell choir and that became a point of contention with me...not because of the ability of the choir, but of the lack of commitment from its members.  I eventually gave that up as well and if you know how much I love handbells, you can understand how disappointing that was.

Anyway, I need to figure this out.  I will probably go back in the near future to see if I can find some level of comfort there.  Until then, I'll keep it between God and myself.

That is all