Oct 31, 2013
There is always something to be said for those adults who are "into Halloween" who don't have kids. I mean, if you have kids it's ok, you have to be into it for them. If you don't have kids - I know how you look at us with your sympathy.
So, let me tell you what Halloween is.
Halloween is when you decide about what you want to be. Not be when you grow up, not be in 5 years - just what you want to be because we are human beings. Suddenly, nothing is off limits, nothing is forbidden - crafty, sexy, gory, inspirational, funny - everything is ok. You can be a character, you can adventure into stories, stores and shoes you might never wear again. But, what's really cool, sometimes you find something there - a look, a pose, a color - that never leaves.
Halloween is more than candy and kids and scary movies - just like Christmas is more than cookies, presents and jingle bells.
Halloween is when a child is told to dress as a hero and the child chooses Chris Hadfield. Halloween is when you take a perfectly normal, dirty squash you picked from a field and turn it into a masterpiece. Halloween is when people come together and help each other out with gusto just to be a group of Smurfs or a bunch of flappers. Halloween is when you can see horror, we've all seen horror, and suddenly it's just a little bit more ok because we all jumped when the killer was behind the door.
Halloween is about being more than in or out of the comfort zone. Halloween is about finding objects and people and things and making them more real. Halloween is about looking horror in the face with a laugh.
I have had Halloweens that have stayed with me ever since.
Like this tube of red lipstick (and I never wear lipstick), which frankly, looks stunning on me!
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions
So, let me tell you what Halloween is.
Halloween is when you decide about what you want to be. Not be when you grow up, not be in 5 years - just what you want to be because we are human beings. Suddenly, nothing is off limits, nothing is forbidden - crafty, sexy, gory, inspirational, funny - everything is ok. You can be a character, you can adventure into stories, stores and shoes you might never wear again. But, what's really cool, sometimes you find something there - a look, a pose, a color - that never leaves.
Halloween is more than candy and kids and scary movies - just like Christmas is more than cookies, presents and jingle bells.
Halloween is when a child is told to dress as a hero and the child chooses Chris Hadfield. Halloween is when you take a perfectly normal, dirty squash you picked from a field and turn it into a masterpiece. Halloween is when people come together and help each other out with gusto just to be a group of Smurfs or a bunch of flappers. Halloween is when you can see horror, we've all seen horror, and suddenly it's just a little bit more ok because we all jumped when the killer was behind the door.
Halloween is about being more than in or out of the comfort zone. Halloween is about finding objects and people and things and making them more real. Halloween is about looking horror in the face with a laugh.
I have had Halloweens that have stayed with me ever since.
Like this tube of red lipstick (and I never wear lipstick), which frankly, looks stunning on me!
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions
Sep 25, 2013
It’s Century Week! That magical week of rest, eating, anticipation, relaxing, looking backing – you know, tapering.
Tapering is the practice of reducing exercise in the days just before an important competition. Tapering is customary in many endurance sports, such as the marathon, athletics and swimming. For many athletes, a significant period of tapering is essential for optimal performance. The tapering period frequently lasts as much as a week or more.
The MS City to Shore ride is this Saturday and I, along with my team, are booking 100 miles in one day. It should be a good time. The MS Society puts on a good tour and raises a lot of money.
#CenturyWeek
I feel a little guilty this century week due to my lack of discipline and training this year. Century week is supposed to be the reward for hard work and I feel like I didn't work hard enough. Things that didn’t happen were me riding to the Rocky Statue and hitting my 60 mile long rides.
I do plan to continue riding throughout the fall and winter – both outside and on my bike trainer at home.
New This Year
This is my second year riding the century (I documented last years training and ride in a series of posts located on my Manda's Century page.) My training program was not as intense as last year as evidenced by me not having a full-blown adrenal crash mid-way through. I am a little disappointed in myself, still. I wanted to do more. My bike training is full of inner turmoil.
Additionally, I have a team to look after. I did my best on prepping them and encouraging training. Most of it fell by the way-side but my super-ridiculously-handsome man-friend came along with me for some long rides – the most we did was 51.1 miles. A good distance.
I feel a sense of responsibility toward my team because last year I had to learn and do all this biking stuff on my own. I didn't want to abandon anyone or lead them down some type of wrong path. Some of my frustration was due to anxiety in prepping them correctly and some of it was because I really love doing this but I had to tone myself back because you don’t go all athletic cray-cray on newbies.
Future Plans
Since I only participated in two biking events this summer, I’m hoping to book at least one more this fall.
If you remember, I had my whole year planned out with biking events, documented in my My Year In Biking post. While I respect myself's passion, I whack myself's with a rolled-up newspaper for over-estimating my abilities.
I did participate in Girls with Gears - wrote about that in my Sports Weekend: 5Ks and Bike Rides. Other than that, this century is all I got going on so far. I do plan to do the Covered Bridges Ride in October - maybe someone will even want to come along with me. Once you make someone do a century with you, expectations for participation sort of go way down.
Winter biking is not something I did last year, it feels like a new frontier that I’d be interested in learning about.
Go fitness! But, you know, after century week.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions
Tapering is the practice of reducing exercise in the days just before an important competition. Tapering is customary in many endurance sports, such as the marathon, athletics and swimming. For many athletes, a significant period of tapering is essential for optimal performance. The tapering period frequently lasts as much as a week or more.
The MS City to Shore ride is this Saturday and I, along with my team, are booking 100 miles in one day. It should be a good time. The MS Society puts on a good tour and raises a lot of money.
#CenturyWeek
I feel a little guilty this century week due to my lack of discipline and training this year. Century week is supposed to be the reward for hard work and I feel like I didn't work hard enough. Things that didn’t happen were me riding to the Rocky Statue and hitting my 60 mile long rides.
I do plan to continue riding throughout the fall and winter – both outside and on my bike trainer at home.
New This Year
 |
| Biking |
Additionally, I have a team to look after. I did my best on prepping them and encouraging training. Most of it fell by the way-side but my super-ridiculously-handsome man-friend came along with me for some long rides – the most we did was 51.1 miles. A good distance.
I feel a sense of responsibility toward my team because last year I had to learn and do all this biking stuff on my own. I didn't want to abandon anyone or lead them down some type of wrong path. Some of my frustration was due to anxiety in prepping them correctly and some of it was because I really love doing this but I had to tone myself back because you don’t go all athletic cray-cray on newbies.
 |
| Resting |
Since I only participated in two biking events this summer, I’m hoping to book at least one more this fall.
If you remember, I had my whole year planned out with biking events, documented in my My Year In Biking post. While I respect myself's passion, I whack myself's with a rolled-up newspaper for over-estimating my abilities.
I did participate in Girls with Gears - wrote about that in my Sports Weekend: 5Ks and Bike Rides. Other than that, this century is all I got going on so far. I do plan to do the Covered Bridges Ride in October - maybe someone will even want to come along with me. Once you make someone do a century with you, expectations for participation sort of go way down.
Winter biking is not something I did last year, it feels like a new frontier that I’d be interested in learning about.
Go fitness! But, you know, after century week.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions
Sep 20, 2013
A friend's infant girl of just a year or so old in a pretty pink dress was clumsily playing with a boy of about the same age, “He better keep away from my princess,” her dad knowingly told the boy's father. Everyone laughed and complimented him for being such a good father of such a pretty princess.
A lot of fathers say they protect their daughters. The image of a young girl dressed in a pink dress with her hair and makeup all done, and normally a decided frown, while her father chases off boys is the archetype of fatherly love. A lot of fathers raise their daughters like untouched princesses – and in this way, her value and what the world wants of her is located only between her legs and in the impression she gives to her father. She knows she is a princess, her existence alone is a gift to everyone but she lives in fear of the unknown world outside the range of her father’s shotgun.
My father never did that.
He told me about boys and men and the games and tricks they play. He didn't pretend I would never have sex or would never have my heart broken. He didn't pretend these tricks and games weren't fun, either, he taught me how to protect my body, my heart and my mind. There are temptations and there are consequences and he knew I would experience both.
He never failed to acknowledge my failures with encouragement or my successes with pride – if not a pinch of caution when my ego got to big. He bit his tongue when I engaged in less-than-perfect relationships, career choices or friendships. When the dust settled, he also told me when he was scared for me because sometimes even he could not prevent the worse-case scenario.
My father never sat on the porch with a shotgun. He taught me how to use the shotgun, how to spot the douche and let me deal with him myself. He taught me whenever I was in trouble, he would stop the world to help me – but stupidity and inexperience leave justifiable bruises that I need to learn from sometimes. It was more important for him to develop within me a good character not worry about my reputation.
He taught me every guy-trick and guy-skill he knew. He invited me into the boy’s club, to the shooting range, the garage and the basement. He taught me just as women have things that are sacred, so do men and I needed to respect both places equally. He taught me life isn’t fair, you don’t always get what you want.
He never failed to open a door for me, to carry a bag for me or tell me I was wrong. And even in the darkness of my mistakes, he always treated me with respect, love and understanding.
My father taught me some males only want what is between my legs and some want more and it was up to me to decide how much I give or how much I ignore. And at the end of the day, I must deal with the consequences of my decisions. But a consequence would never be the loss of his love.
My father sat on the porch with a gin and tonic and invited whoever I thought was worthy in. You see, he knew if he was the gatekeeper of my life, eventually someone would get past him and once that happened, I would be in serious trouble. So, he armed me with knowledge to make my own decision and keep myself safe. He taught me one day he would not be there and being without him would not result in my demise.
My father didn't protect me by deflecting the evil of the world away from me; he protected me by opening up the world to me. He didn't raise me as a princess sitting in a gilded cage, he raised me to be a citizen of the world – to give a little more than I think I could, to always be grateful, to stand up for myself and others, to cry and laugh without shame, to be quiet and listen, to admit when I am wrong, to know what the high-road is in every situation and understand the choice is mine to take it.
When I think about it all, I think my father raised me to be a queen – to rule my own world, to make decisions, to dress in the riches of my own work, to be humble and grateful for what I have. I’m not always a perfect steward in the lessons he taught me. But, being perfect was never the plan.
A friend’s infant girl of just a year or so old in a pretty pink dress was clumsily playing with a boy of about the same age, “He better keep away from my princess,” her dad knowingly told the boy’s father. Everyone laughed and complimented him for being such a good father of such a pretty princess.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
A lot of fathers say they protect their daughters. The image of a young girl dressed in a pink dress with her hair and makeup all done, and normally a decided frown, while her father chases off boys is the archetype of fatherly love. A lot of fathers raise their daughters like untouched princesses – and in this way, her value and what the world wants of her is located only between her legs and in the impression she gives to her father. She knows she is a princess, her existence alone is a gift to everyone but she lives in fear of the unknown world outside the range of her father’s shotgun.
My father never did that.
He told me about boys and men and the games and tricks they play. He didn't pretend I would never have sex or would never have my heart broken. He didn't pretend these tricks and games weren't fun, either, he taught me how to protect my body, my heart and my mind. There are temptations and there are consequences and he knew I would experience both.
He never failed to acknowledge my failures with encouragement or my successes with pride – if not a pinch of caution when my ego got to big. He bit his tongue when I engaged in less-than-perfect relationships, career choices or friendships. When the dust settled, he also told me when he was scared for me because sometimes even he could not prevent the worse-case scenario.
My father never sat on the porch with a shotgun. He taught me how to use the shotgun, how to spot the douche and let me deal with him myself. He taught me whenever I was in trouble, he would stop the world to help me – but stupidity and inexperience leave justifiable bruises that I need to learn from sometimes. It was more important for him to develop within me a good character not worry about my reputation.
He taught me every guy-trick and guy-skill he knew. He invited me into the boy’s club, to the shooting range, the garage and the basement. He taught me just as women have things that are sacred, so do men and I needed to respect both places equally. He taught me life isn’t fair, you don’t always get what you want.
He never failed to open a door for me, to carry a bag for me or tell me I was wrong. And even in the darkness of my mistakes, he always treated me with respect, love and understanding.
My father taught me some males only want what is between my legs and some want more and it was up to me to decide how much I give or how much I ignore. And at the end of the day, I must deal with the consequences of my decisions. But a consequence would never be the loss of his love.
My father sat on the porch with a gin and tonic and invited whoever I thought was worthy in. You see, he knew if he was the gatekeeper of my life, eventually someone would get past him and once that happened, I would be in serious trouble. So, he armed me with knowledge to make my own decision and keep myself safe. He taught me one day he would not be there and being without him would not result in my demise.
My father didn't protect me by deflecting the evil of the world away from me; he protected me by opening up the world to me. He didn't raise me as a princess sitting in a gilded cage, he raised me to be a citizen of the world – to give a little more than I think I could, to always be grateful, to stand up for myself and others, to cry and laugh without shame, to be quiet and listen, to admit when I am wrong, to know what the high-road is in every situation and understand the choice is mine to take it.
When I think about it all, I think my father raised me to be a queen – to rule my own world, to make decisions, to dress in the riches of my own work, to be humble and grateful for what I have. I’m not always a perfect steward in the lessons he taught me. But, being perfect was never the plan.
A friend’s infant girl of just a year or so old in a pretty pink dress was clumsily playing with a boy of about the same age, “He better keep away from my princess,” her dad knowingly told the boy’s father. Everyone laughed and complimented him for being such a good father of such a pretty princess.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
Jul 31, 2013
This is sometimes how it goes.
Loving lifted from the Oatmeal - you can view the whole pannel in all it's amazingness at Some Thoughts and Musings About Making Things for the Web
I have been writing more fiction lately - not really blogging more. And, you know what, I'm ok with that!
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
Loving lifted from the Oatmeal - you can view the whole pannel in all it's amazingness at Some Thoughts and Musings About Making Things for the Web
I have been writing more fiction lately - not really blogging more. And, you know what, I'm ok with that!
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
Jul 10, 2013
Sorry guys, I have no current adventures going on.
The most exciting thing is my trip to Canada – I leave on
Sunday!
Bike training is starting to happen, unless my body gives
out.
Otherwise, no adventures. No suggestions have been coming
in.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
Jul 8, 2013
No, I don’t have an eating disorder. I have a disorder with eating. I did have a food allergy/sensitivity test done about a year ago and through my own denial. .well. .that’s a strong word. Ignorance? Forgetfulness? The feeling is between denial and ignorance with a dash of forgetfulness.
Let’s review what I need to avoid at all times. The scale is 1-5, 5 being the highest.
Moo-ve Over
Anyhow, I have been eating a lot of dairy. A lot of dairy for me is about a tablespoon of Greek yogurt a couple times a week coupled with cheese at least once a week. I was getting into Greek yogurt as a way to get some more protein into my NutriBullet shakes and totally forgot I needed to avoid dairy.
Why? Because I normally don’t do anything with dairy - I don’t drink milk or eat cereal or use a dairy creamer in my coffee. I only like to snack on artisan type cheeses with wine, so, I don’t put cheese on any foods I make. Unless it’s really a slight amount.
Enter the issues.
Weed-whacker in my tummy plus fun-runs to the bathroom, brain fog, body pain - all this had me worried until I double checked my card and realized I was doing it all to myself.
Reasons
Most of this is my fault. I actually just went off living as a normal person because I thought I could.
I evaluated why – you know, in my brain. Since, in my world, a lot of people make fun of whatever health issue I am going through or look at me like it’s impossible I have the issues I have, it becomes very easy for me to convince myself I’m completely normal and nothing is wrong. A lot of this has to do with making other people feel ok to be around me and the other half is people trying to be “supportive” and telling me I can do anything. The truth is, I can’t. Sometimes, when everyone is convinced nothing is wrong with you, you start to believe it since no one is actually looking out for you.
I do my best to keep my sense of humor about being difficult but I know I’m a major bummer.
The Test
Not completely convinced – I did an experiment.
I should add, I thought maybe I was lactose intolerant even though my symptoms do not match up with it. My brother is lactose intolerant and responds to the tablets. I did not take any tablets. Some of this is because my blood test shows the issues with milk as a whole which is not the same as a lactose intolerance.
Anyhow - for science I ate an entire quart of Zhwahels Ice Cream – which is some of the best ice cream around. Additionally, it was the Black Raspberry Krisp that my friend Tee and I feel in love with 5 years ago that was never produced after. It delicious blackberry ice cream with these chunks of sweet oatmeal crisp clusters.
*drool*
I communicated to Zwahlens Twitter that I missed Blackberry Crisp and they said they can’t make it because of the lack of blackberries. However, black raspberries are pretty good, too, and Tee bought us like a gallon of the Black Raspberry Krisp.
So, I ate my quart.
Aftermath
I do not want to eat dairy anymore. Ever.
I think that was the fastest anything has ever moved through my system. Parts of my dinner didn't even get their full time in my digestive tract. I even had the awesome green stuff coming out my back-end - which is actually bile - proving:
You know what, padre? Everyone poops and those who do not poop probably wish they did. People are all supportive and happy about what goes in the front end but never pay attention to the back-end. I am here to educate you - your body can send you thousands of signals through poop in how it is processing food, using food and if you have anything from dehydration to an allergy to cancer.
Ever seen undigested food in the bowl, paco? That means your body is revolting it back-end style and can't digest it. That tells you a lot.
Respect the poop! Learn about your body. Make poop you are proud of!
Anyhow. . .
Lucky, my foster cat, summed up how my soul felt the rest of the night and into the next day.
Future Plans
Cheese will have to be sheep's milk from now on. It's ok, I like cheese and sheep's milk cheese. I just have to be careful and check it to make sure.
I will miss ice cream (not for a little while, though) so my friend Tee gave me tons of thoughts about coconut milk ice cream, sheep's ice cream (I wanna try it, but, hard to find) and other types of ice cream. I might have to give them a go.
Anyhow, lesson learned.
I will be sticking to my little chart and avoiding those things that bother me. I have a feeling I will be much happier in many ways. Since my totally desirable man-friend, Bob, also needs to avoid some food after he had the same test done, we can do this together.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
Let’s review what I need to avoid at all times. The scale is 1-5, 5 being the highest.
 |
| Oh. Right. |
Anyhow, I have been eating a lot of dairy. A lot of dairy for me is about a tablespoon of Greek yogurt a couple times a week coupled with cheese at least once a week. I was getting into Greek yogurt as a way to get some more protein into my NutriBullet shakes and totally forgot I needed to avoid dairy.
Why? Because I normally don’t do anything with dairy - I don’t drink milk or eat cereal or use a dairy creamer in my coffee. I only like to snack on artisan type cheeses with wine, so, I don’t put cheese on any foods I make. Unless it’s really a slight amount.
Enter the issues.
Weed-whacker in my tummy plus fun-runs to the bathroom, brain fog, body pain - all this had me worried until I double checked my card and realized I was doing it all to myself.
Reasons
Most of this is my fault. I actually just went off living as a normal person because I thought I could.
I evaluated why – you know, in my brain. Since, in my world, a lot of people make fun of whatever health issue I am going through or look at me like it’s impossible I have the issues I have, it becomes very easy for me to convince myself I’m completely normal and nothing is wrong. A lot of this has to do with making other people feel ok to be around me and the other half is people trying to be “supportive” and telling me I can do anything. The truth is, I can’t. Sometimes, when everyone is convinced nothing is wrong with you, you start to believe it since no one is actually looking out for you.
I do my best to keep my sense of humor about being difficult but I know I’m a major bummer.
The Test
Not completely convinced – I did an experiment.
 |
| This is about 1,040 calories |
I should add, I thought maybe I was lactose intolerant even though my symptoms do not match up with it. My brother is lactose intolerant and responds to the tablets. I did not take any tablets. Some of this is because my blood test shows the issues with milk as a whole which is not the same as a lactose intolerance.
Anyhow - for science I ate an entire quart of Zhwahels Ice Cream – which is some of the best ice cream around. Additionally, it was the Black Raspberry Krisp that my friend Tee and I feel in love with 5 years ago that was never produced after. It delicious blackberry ice cream with these chunks of sweet oatmeal crisp clusters.
*drool*
I communicated to Zwahlens Twitter that I missed Blackberry Crisp and they said they can’t make it because of the lack of blackberries. However, black raspberries are pretty good, too, and Tee bought us like a gallon of the Black Raspberry Krisp.
So, I ate my quart.
Aftermath
I do not want to eat dairy anymore. Ever.
I think that was the fastest anything has ever moved through my system. Parts of my dinner didn't even get their full time in my digestive tract. I even had the awesome green stuff coming out my back-end - which is actually bile - proving:
- I eat a lot of greens (less likely, by the way).
- Gastrointestinal Malabsorption: Cow's milk being one of the causes.
You know what, padre? Everyone poops and those who do not poop probably wish they did. People are all supportive and happy about what goes in the front end but never pay attention to the back-end. I am here to educate you - your body can send you thousands of signals through poop in how it is processing food, using food and if you have anything from dehydration to an allergy to cancer.
Ever seen undigested food in the bowl, paco? That means your body is revolting it back-end style and can't digest it. That tells you a lot.
Respect the poop! Learn about your body. Make poop you are proud of!
Anyhow. . .
Lucky, my foster cat, summed up how my soul felt the rest of the night and into the next day.
 |
| Shame |
Cheese will have to be sheep's milk from now on. It's ok, I like cheese and sheep's milk cheese. I just have to be careful and check it to make sure.
I will miss ice cream (not for a little while, though) so my friend Tee gave me tons of thoughts about coconut milk ice cream, sheep's ice cream (I wanna try it, but, hard to find) and other types of ice cream. I might have to give them a go.
Anyhow, lesson learned.
I will be sticking to my little chart and avoiding those things that bother me. I have a feeling I will be much happier in many ways. Since my totally desirable man-friend, Bob, also needs to avoid some food after he had the same test done, we can do this together.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
Jul 5, 2013
The birth of our county was not a quick thing - it really took a couple days to get the whole thing out and all that. So, you know, you really can celebrate America from like June 14 to July 5.
Anyhow, yesterday, I celebrated my country with family, friends, steak and beverages. Today. . .I am the only one who made it to work in my department.
Holla at this hard-working American lady, here.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
Image Credit
Decal from 123rf.com
Anyhow, yesterday, I celebrated my country with family, friends, steak and beverages. Today. . .I am the only one who made it to work in my department.
Holla at this hard-working American lady, here.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestions.
Image Credit
Decal from 123rf.com
Jul 3, 2013
Bob, my hot tomali man-friend, and I journeyed to his brother’s house for dinner on Saturday night. I did not pass any United States Post Offices. I should also make it clear that it was Bob’s brother’s finance who made dinner. And it was fan-damn-tastic.
If you don’t know, I love me some good chicken and rice. And it was a strewed chicken over rice and I was the only one who ate two platefuls. I actually have traded out the rice in my diet for quinoa because I don’t @#$% it up as much so some good ol’ rice was super delicious.
The Background
Bob’s family play games. This is very alien to me because my family does not play games. Traditionally, we hunt and drink. And shoot guns. And eat. Debate. Mostly drink. Before I met Bob, I think the last time I even played a game was Apples to Apples in 2003. Before that, it was probably when my age was a single digit.
In college, when people wanted to play drinking games, I would totally laugh at them. Why am I playing a game to dictate when I drink? I’m just going to finish my beer like an adult.
Anyhow, Bob’s world is all about games.
This isn't a bad thing – he taught me how to play Rummy 500 and pinochle. I love 500. I do not love pinochle.
[Sorry babe, I love you a great deal but I don’t think I will ever enjoy pinochle.]
The Game
I only played dominoes once. It was a long time ago and there was also food around so I was really more interested in the food.
My first thought was there were a lot less dominoes than I remembered. I think we were playing some other type of game. I also remember in kindergarten was had a big box of dominoes o build things with. I assumed that was the game.
The game was pretty fun. We played in teams and the game involves strategies like counting and suits and stuff. I didn't really pick up on that. As with most games, at certain points someone would call out how they knew what everyone had or how my love or I screwed someone. I couldn't figure it out too well. But, with good people, it was fun.
Future Plans
I bought a pack of dominoes.
For reals.
Since I spend Sunday mostly alone, I tried to get the cat to play with me.
Then I learned how to play Castle Rock. I found trying to read the instructions more confusing for other games. Ahh well, it will be something fun my man-friend and I can play.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestio
If you don’t know, I love me some good chicken and rice. And it was a strewed chicken over rice and I was the only one who ate two platefuls. I actually have traded out the rice in my diet for quinoa because I don’t @#$% it up as much so some good ol’ rice was super delicious.
The Background
Bob’s family play games. This is very alien to me because my family does not play games. Traditionally, we hunt and drink. And shoot guns. And eat. Debate. Mostly drink. Before I met Bob, I think the last time I even played a game was Apples to Apples in 2003. Before that, it was probably when my age was a single digit.
In college, when people wanted to play drinking games, I would totally laugh at them. Why am I playing a game to dictate when I drink? I’m just going to finish my beer like an adult.
Anyhow, Bob’s world is all about games.
This isn't a bad thing – he taught me how to play Rummy 500 and pinochle. I love 500. I do not love pinochle.
[Sorry babe, I love you a great deal but I don’t think I will ever enjoy pinochle.]
The Game
I only played dominoes once. It was a long time ago and there was also food around so I was really more interested in the food.
My first thought was there were a lot less dominoes than I remembered. I think we were playing some other type of game. I also remember in kindergarten was had a big box of dominoes o build things with. I assumed that was the game.
The game was pretty fun. We played in teams and the game involves strategies like counting and suits and stuff. I didn't really pick up on that. As with most games, at certain points someone would call out how they knew what everyone had or how my love or I screwed someone. I couldn't figure it out too well. But, with good people, it was fun.
Future Plans
I bought a pack of dominoes.
For reals.
Since I spend Sunday mostly alone, I tried to get the cat to play with me.
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| Your move, buddy! |
Then I learned how to play Castle Rock. I found trying to read the instructions more confusing for other games. Ahh well, it will be something fun my man-friend and I can play.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestio
Jul 1, 2013
Mission level: General fail
Background
Back on the last day of May, I took on a lengthy challenge, which you can read about, know as Take One Picture A Day.
Background
Back on the last day of May, I took on a lengthy challenge, which you can read about, know as Take One Picture A Day.
How hard can this be? Oddly enough, it sort of moves between
being hard and being easy.
I take a lot of pictures of Lucky – my latest foster cat.
Because he’s just so damn cute and he does funny things.
I wanted to take pictures that were really “deep” or “meaningful”
and came to the conclusion, the mundane can be quite significant. Sort of like
when I was in this second-hand/vintage shop and there was old yearbooks and
autograph books – many with mundane pictures of people doing mundane things and
writing about mundane events – and I realized I was holding someone’s lost item.
Someone’s autograph book filled with signatures and happy notes. The notes, the
people and the time was unknown to me but it felt significant that here I was
holding it. Who could have ever imagined?
Progress
I set up a separate folder in my DropBox for photos for this mission, and, well. . .I sort of took the same amount of photos I take on a normal basis.
Anyhow, here are my first 30 pictures! And by 30, I mean 18.
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| My life is boring |
True story. Boring life. I don't have many things to take pictures of except for myself and my cat. Bummer.
Future Plans
I am torn between trying this again or giving up. I think it ties back into wanting to find or see something meaningful or dramatic. I guess I have a lot of friends who sort of do that. Then again, they are far less structured and seem to always be going to the beach or hanging out with friends.
Since I am an introvert who works a normal 9-5 job and who doesn't like to take a lot of pictures of other people, either, I don't have a wonderful canvas.
And, with that said - I feel it is even more important to try this again.
Future Plans
I am torn between trying this again or giving up. I think it ties back into wanting to find or see something meaningful or dramatic. I guess I have a lot of friends who sort of do that. Then again, they are far less structured and seem to always be going to the beach or hanging out with friends.
Since I am an introvert who works a normal 9-5 job and who doesn't like to take a lot of pictures of other people, either, I don't have a wonderful canvas.
And, with that said - I feel it is even more important to try this again.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Jun 27, 2013
This has officially been a bummer blog week. To garner sympathy and proof of need of forgiveness for not posting on my regular schedule, I give you the results-results of my blood test.
My thyroid is under-active and I also need to take testosterone because that is also low. Yes, I'm a girl and yes all females have an amount of testosterone in order to maintain normal functions; just like males have a certain amount of estrogen.
I made an awesome funny joke about it, by the way, since I have to apply the testosterone transdermally and it leaves a slight burning sensation.
I give you my morning dose of medications and supplements in order to combat where my body is under-preforming. I take amount the same amount of stuff in the evening. I use to have to take 37 things, but, I got that reduced to 32 things last week. Sweet!
I'm still looking for some adventures. A friend did post he was looking for someone to help him pick up dead bodies and bring them to a morgue. I just don't have the energy right now.
I am hoping to go out for a bike ride on Friday and see if that kills me. Right after that, I have a whole Saturday of back-to-back people and running around.
Come on body, get with the program!
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
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| Curses! |
My thyroid is under-active and I also need to take testosterone because that is also low. Yes, I'm a girl and yes all females have an amount of testosterone in order to maintain normal functions; just like males have a certain amount of estrogen.
I made an awesome funny joke about it, by the way, since I have to apply the testosterone transdermally and it leaves a slight burning sensation.
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| I'm funny! |
I give you my morning dose of medications and supplements in order to combat where my body is under-preforming. I take amount the same amount of stuff in the evening. I use to have to take 37 things, but, I got that reduced to 32 things last week. Sweet!
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| Morning dose |
I'm still looking for some adventures. A friend did post he was looking for someone to help him pick up dead bodies and bring them to a morgue. I just don't have the energy right now.
I am hoping to go out for a bike ride on Friday and see if that kills me. Right after that, I have a whole Saturday of back-to-back people and running around.
Come on body, get with the program!
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Jun 24, 2013
Yeah, I need ideas.
Send me ideas for things to do!
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Send me ideas for things to do!
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| Must . .blog. . . |
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Jun 21, 2013
OMG, it's totally Friday!
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| Winning! |
Did you remember to write a blog post?
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| Smug mug |
Uhh. .
|
| Ooops |
I actually don't have much to write about. Perhaps my blood work results? No, that's just depressing. Maybe the cool new medications I get to take? Naaa, that's creepy. How about we all just have a great weekend?
Score.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Jun 19, 2013
Who knew this would be such an un-dead chain of posts. Back in the day, I created my own adventure called Fix My Den followed up by Fix My Den: Follow Up.
Details to follow.
This past weekend, I managed to get a hunk of stuff done on my list (check it out at Stop the Burn Out) and the den was on of them. I didn't get the storage unit I was thinking of, but I pulled apart my closet and threw out a couple bags of stuff. I felt a lot better once I was done - only took about 2 hours. *phew*
Let's just review this small portion - before:
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| Stuff |
And now, let's review after:
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| Better! |
I did reorg my closet - moved all my winter clothes into a bin and was able to store it in my den closet. I even found a pair of sunglasses I thought I was missing. Right now, some cat stuff is in there, some stuff I want to sell or need to store at my parent's house. I also threw out stuff I wasn't using in my desk and got it set up for more of what I use it for. The stuff on my desk is stuff I need to work on right now.
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| Find Lucky |
Minus the sword.
Lucky the Cat was little to no help, might I add.
He was thrilled at all the commotion and places to hide as I threw stuff around and looked at what I had. He really liked playing with a bunch of the stuff I was throwing out. He tossed around some feathers and was overjoyed when I moved some of my furniture to find his precious little mice-toys.
I think they are all back under my stove and sofas. He's quite a clingy people-cat.
I think they are all back under my stove and sofas. He's quite a clingy people-cat.
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| I'm rough on my guys |
My awesome man-friend, Bob (remember him from my Reveal the Identity of my Devastatingly Handsome Man-Friend post?) also came and helped me clean the kitchen and items around my place.
I really lucked out with him. He worked at his parents place and then did whatever I said all day. He even felt bad he couldn't help out more - even though I never had anyone help me out as it was!
I mean, I have helped a lot of people out, but, I never thought someone would want to help me. They would get nothing out of it.
I mean, I have helped a lot of people out, but, I never thought someone would want to help me. They would get nothing out of it.
After about 6 hours of cleaning where I gave him various tasks (don't worry, I fed him) I found my two males were quite exhausted. I mean, Lucky was just playing and totally excited he wasn't alone all day.
It was just as well, we all needed a break and Bob and I had a BBQ to go to at his friend's house later that night. Best to get the dirt off us. Plus, Bob has to plan our vacation in July.
It was just as well, we all needed a break and Bob and I had a BBQ to go to at his friend's house later that night. Best to get the dirt off us. Plus, Bob has to plan our vacation in July.
Details to follow.
Thoughts
I love this guy. Bob.
Anyhow, I felt a lot better being able to really get stuff done. I have to still work on my kitchen, bathroom and bedroom - and I need to save up money for storage units and whatnot. I just feel better about what I got done. I think I can keep up with stuff better now.
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| Much needed manicure |
While he and Lucky rested - and planned the vacation - I ended up getting my nails done. I didn't get a gel manicure this time (you can read about my addiction in my Get a Gel Manicure post) I was told to just get a normal one to give my nails a break. I hope this break doesn't break them.
I was excited at the break and my new nails - what up, OPI Samoa Sands.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Jun 17, 2013
I have mentioned my man-friend frequently in this blog since he's a big part of my life. If he ever tried to get away, well, I'd probably track him down. Actually, I'd just make a plate of my chicken nuggets and he would totally come back.
Seriously, he's amazing and I feel very lucky to have someone like him to call my own. I can't imagine my life without him. In past relationships, I felt more alone than when I was single and it doesn't feel that way with him. He's funny, honorable, has a heart of gold and he's really hot.
You can read some recaps of our dates in my now dead Dating Amanda blog:
Here is the autographed picture he gave me - I had a coupon. I like coupons.
Here he is claiming victory in a four-way board game - Railways of the Eastern US.
Here he is completing a 5K - which you can read about in my Sports Weekend: 5Ks and Bike Rides post.
Here he is cooking up a mean meal.
Seriously, he's amazing and I feel very lucky to have someone like him to call my own. I can't imagine my life without him. In past relationships, I felt more alone than when I was single and it doesn't feel that way with him. He's funny, honorable, has a heart of gold and he's really hot.
You can read some recaps of our dates in my now dead Dating Amanda blog:
- Match Round 6: Stepping Out: This is where he is on my list of guys - his code name is MacGyver.
- Match Round 6: MacGyver Dates: Recap of our first dates.
- Match.Com Round 6: MacGyver Date Four: When I made him dinner.
- Ex-Single Girl: It's official - meaning it is on FaceBook.
Here is the autographed picture he gave me - I had a coupon. I like coupons.
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| This distracts me more than the Internet |
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| Always a winner to me! |
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| Headbands are legit! |
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| He was in charge of noodles |
Here he is with me, laughing our pants off.
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| The flash was really bright |
So, now you know all about my handsome gentleman caller, my devastating handsome man-friend, my one and only, my vacation buddy, my love - Bob.
Friend: Wait, Bob is his real name?
Me: Yes.
Friend: I thought you just called him that.
Me: I do. Because that's his name.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Jun 14, 2013
I've been mildly burnt out for a while. Some of this is probably due to a vitamin D deficiency (I'm not talking about a couple points off normal, it’s pretty low) I have and my adrenals not working perfectly. and it will take a while to get it back up. So, I have to deal with fatigue, bone pain, brain fog and a nice flare up of my neuropathy.
How does one un-burnout? I have no idea. Some people go on vacation, in my area, a lot of people have shore houses they go to. I know some people get a massage or go shopping. These seem pretty classic across the board.
I know two things will make me feel better - (a) Take meds and recover, (b) Get stuff done!
I don't like to take vacations when I have a lot going on. I like to go on vacation knowing I deserved it and I can come home refreshed without a butt-ton of stuff to do. I always feel the best when I am productive and improving my surroundings. I like to be grateful and happy for what I have and take good care of it.
What I Need To Do
I need to find a home for my foster cat, Lucky. I love Lucky, he’s a great cat, but it means I cannot go anywhere or do much because I have to return to feed him and clean out his litter box.
Plus, you can’t leave any animal alone for days – he gets lonely. I was only supposed to have Lucky for 3 months. That was 5 months ago. He even meows when I leave for work - he's lonely.
I need to clean.
At this point, I have only been able to mildly keep on top of my cleaning because I am not home that much between work and school-girl giggling at my attractive gentleman caller. Besides, once I do clean, things are turned up-side-down a few hours after I finish.
Most of this is due to the cat.
I'm not a slob (maybe according to my Mom) but it feels that way with this list of stuff to do. Here is my list of items I need to do:
Living room
This is where I spend the most time, so, it can either be the cleanest or the messiest. I tend to keep on top of most stuff. It just needs a really good clean.
Remember my Fix My Den goal? Still going on.
I keep a clean kitchen. I mean, food is in there. However, still needs a lot of elbow greese that I have no been able to get around to.
It's small - I do have some nice shelves.
I keep this place pretty clean. I did some work on it before.
I need to bike! I miss biking, I am far behind with my knee injury and then my health.
I need to get a bike ride because I need to be able to carry two bikes soon so that my lover can train with me. That expense has been moved way down on my list. I might be able to campaign to get one for my birthday which will be late in the game for riding.
Biking by myself right now is out. I can barely stay awake 10 hours. Adding exercise is going to make it impossible for me to also work and function in my social life. Or clean. Check out my list above - I need some energy.
What I Have Done
Things are not a total dumpster-fire. I mean, I have been working on stuff.
The problem is I spend a good deal of my day-time working, I should be biking after work (*sad sigh*) and then I am spending weekends enjoying my guy-friend and doing errands like buying food or going to events and whatnot. I really don't have an interesting life, but, I can't seem to get anywhere with my place.
My adventure - get all of this done and avoid a total melt-down.
Of course, this is all possible and my heart melted a little after getting this text from my one-and-only:
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
How does one un-burnout? I have no idea. Some people go on vacation, in my area, a lot of people have shore houses they go to. I know some people get a massage or go shopping. These seem pretty classic across the board.
I know two things will make me feel better - (a) Take meds and recover, (b) Get stuff done!
I don't like to take vacations when I have a lot going on. I like to go on vacation knowing I deserved it and I can come home refreshed without a butt-ton of stuff to do. I always feel the best when I am productive and improving my surroundings. I like to be grateful and happy for what I have and take good care of it.
What I Need To Do
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| Lucky and I |
Plus, you can’t leave any animal alone for days – he gets lonely. I was only supposed to have Lucky for 3 months. That was 5 months ago. He even meows when I leave for work - he's lonely.
I need to clean.
At this point, I have only been able to mildly keep on top of my cleaning because I am not home that much between work and school-girl giggling at my attractive gentleman caller. Besides, once I do clean, things are turned up-side-down a few hours after I finish.
Most of this is due to the cat.
I'm not a slob (maybe according to my Mom) but it feels that way with this list of stuff to do. Here is my list of items I need to do:
Living room
This is where I spend the most time, so, it can either be the cleanest or the messiest. I tend to keep on top of most stuff. It just needs a really good clean.
- I need to move my furniture around to clean under everything.
- I need to insulate the a/c unit.
- I need to de-cat the couches.
- I need to de-cat the cat tree.
- I need to clean the windows inside and out - they have filth on them from when there were renovations happening around me. I just can't seem to reach all the spots.
- I need to clean the radiator.
- I need to clean the ceiling fan and get new lightbulbs put in - I don't use this light too much because it heats up the place a lot, but, be nice to have.
Remember my Fix My Den goal? Still going on.
- I need to get a new filing cabinet. The one I have hardly works. I need more extension cords and a new computer desk in my den. I also need to attach the missing panel of my computer tower back on.
- My “bar” furniture needs to be sold. It really just takes up space. It’s not as much of an issue since it holds like 500 wine glasses people thought I needed. I don’t even know 500 people. I might be able to get rid of some of the wine glasses. If I had the shelves in my kitchen cabinets.
- My largest closet is in this room and it needs a complete overhaul. It has the most space and a lot of BIG plastic containers with nothing inside. Maybe I can use this for my winter clothes.
- I need shelving to put stuff on. This will require money and time to put everything together.
- I could use a indoor bike rack to store both my bikes. That is also a pipe-dream right now.
- I need to clean the radiator.
- I would like to get one of those plastic mats under my den chair - but I also hate them. I think I hate them more than I hate doing damage to my carpet.
- I would love to be able to get a second computer monitor, too. My desk will not fit two. Bummer.
I keep a clean kitchen. I mean, food is in there. However, still needs a lot of elbow greese that I have no been able to get around to.
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| Lucky models |
- I need to clean out my dishwasher. I think there might be some type of pasta in there from my last tenants. I don’t eat that much pasta and I wouldn't put pasta in the dishwasher. I don't use the dishwasher that often, either. Yep. Dirty.
- I need to get my shelves back up in my kitchen cabinets – they collapsed right before my man-to-be came over for the first time for dinner. Having that space back would be nice. I don’t hold out much hope for this. I think I need to consult the apartment people about it.
- I need to clean out my cabinets. I do have a decent amount of space in the kitchen, I don't use it all wisely. Time to get rid of items I don't use and use the space for whatever I can.
- Remove everything from on top of the cabinets and dust.
- I got to use some elbow grease on my floors. I had hoped to get new floors by now since mine is very scratched and old – I might try to launch a new campaign.
- I need to clean the radiator.
- Clean the trashcan - really good.
- Clean and de-grease the vents - I try to do this weekly - the grease is winning.
- Clean under the burners. I fear to open the stove-top again.
- I would like to get rid of my fake kitchen table that is never used in favor of a kitchen island where I two people can eat, I can store stuff and I have additional cooking space.
- I would really love to paint my kitchen a nice moss green. Again, pipedream.
It's small - I do have some nice shelves.
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| Hairball |
- I need a new shower curtain - once Lucky is re-homed. He shredded it.
- I need to scrub the shower - again, it is cheap material and easily stained. I just want it white! I haven't found a product that works on it.
- Clean the top of the shower - I don't even want to know how dirty it is.
- I need to get all the cat litter out of there. There are little rocks everywhere and I hate it. Again, this is ongoing since Lucky throws it everywhere.
- There is a good amount of dust stuck in the decorative baseboard. I need to get a toothbrush and clean that stuff out.
- The floor actually has a pattern of dirt naturally. Ick. I want to take a toothbrush to it. I wish I could get a new, non-vomit inspiring floor.
- I need to clean the radiators - they produce dirt like crazy! One time my rat, Molly, found an old cigarette butt in one. Whaaaa?! The rats really helped me cleaned. Rat love is true love, baby. Lucky does not help.
- Clean the trashcan - like scrub the bottom junk off it.
- Clean the bathroom rug - or get a new one. A new one will have to be gotten after Lucky is re-homed - he loves to tear it apart.
- Tell my maintenance guy the "metal" on the sink is dissolving and I should get a new one, soon.
- I would love to paint this room - maybe even just the back wall as an accent. That is a pipe-dream. It's a cost I don't need to have.
- I would love to get an over-the-toilet cabinet so I can hide some more personal bathroom items - but I can't until I get rid of the litter box and make sure I get something that is sturdy that can survive in a small bathroom. Oh, and until I get more money.
I keep this place pretty clean. I did some work on it before.
- I need to better insulate my air conditioning units.
- I need to move my furniture to clean under. Next time I buy furniture, there will be no space under it for dirt and cat toys to collect!
- I need to get some under-the-bed storage containers. Maybe some of those vacuum ones because I have all this bedding and no place to put it. It goes under the bed and then I feel it gets filthy over time. What I have does not fit under my bed.
- Clean the ceiling fan blades and the glass lamp part.
- I have to get rid of chest in my bedroom. It will have to my parents house because it was a gift from my Aunt. Unfortunately, I have no use for it. I need extra help lugging it over to their house and permission since I don’t know how much space they have.
- I need a wardrobe or some sort where I can hang clothes and more draws. I would have to research this a lot. The expense is not going to happen anytime, soon.
- Clean my closet - I have a ton of stuff jammed in a very small space. Some of it can't be helped. I need to pull everything out and make sure I am using everything.
- I would love to trade in my current bed for a queen sized captain's bed - seriously. No dust under but tons of storage!
I need to bike! I miss biking, I am far behind with my knee injury and then my health.
I need to get a bike ride because I need to be able to carry two bikes soon so that my lover can train with me. That expense has been moved way down on my list. I might be able to campaign to get one for my birthday which will be late in the game for riding.
Biking by myself right now is out. I can barely stay awake 10 hours. Adding exercise is going to make it impossible for me to also work and function in my social life. Or clean. Check out my list above - I need some energy.
What I Have Done
Things are not a total dumpster-fire. I mean, I have been working on stuff.
- I did get my fridge cleaned out – which is beautiful.
- I got the bathroom shelves cleaned, purged a bunch of expired products and organized my stuff.
- I went through my clothes and donated about five bags of clothes. If you have ever gone through EVERYTHING, this was a big deal. I don't even have that much stuff.
- I moved all my winter clothes to places that are hard to get to in favor of my summer clothes.
- I did get my clothes back from the tailor. Tailoring clothes is less expensive than buying new clothes and also meant I got rid of the bag of stuff on my floor that harbored these ill-fitting garments.
- I did get my air conditioning units in the windows and decently secured. Not bad for a 11:30pm activity.
- I have been dusting everything pretty well.
- Moved all my winter coats and shoes from my rack in the kitchen to my den closet.
- Purchased and put together a shoe cubby for the kitchen.
- I did get an over-the-door shoe organizer for my bedroom to get shoes off the floor.
- Got new bathroom towels. The downside is they are fluffy and thin. Bad choice. :(
- Got a steam mop, which I use every week, at least.
- I Swiffer and disinfect all floors every week, at least.
- I sweep up the dirt tracked in from the outside and as much kitty litter rocks as possible.
- I wipe down all surfaces in my kitchen, doorknobs and even the doors where grimy hands have been.
- Did a general decluttering of the items on top of my kitchen cabinets.
- Clean the toilet and surfaces of the bathroom at least twice a week.
- Run around like a man-woman with my orange scented Lysol.
The problem is I spend a good deal of my day-time working, I should be biking after work (*sad sigh*) and then I am spending weekends enjoying my guy-friend and doing errands like buying food or going to events and whatnot. I really don't have an interesting life, but, I can't seem to get anywhere with my place.
My adventure - get all of this done and avoid a total melt-down.
Of course, this is all possible and my heart melted a little after getting this text from my one-and-only:
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| *heart melt* |
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Jun 12, 2013
I like sending mail, so, my enjoyment of the US Postal Service was a given. I also like that the US Postal Office is the "town center" wherever it is. It doesn't mean it is the actual place people want to go or cool stuff is around it, but, if you ever type in a town name or zip code, it will put you at the US Post Office.
Friend: Why do you say US Post Office? Did you feel the need to distinguish from the Canadian Post Office or something?
Me: Maybe.
So, the post office.
Mission
I want to get as many photos of different post offices as I can. If I travel outside the US, I'd be all for getting other post offices. But, I'm in American, so, US Post Offices for now.
I brought this mission up with my handsome man friend:
Him: How many pictures do you have?
Me: Two.
Him: I mean total.
Me: Two.
Seriously, why would I lie? In looking in my file, though, I actually have four. I was off because I didn't realize one came out and I thought I accidentally deleted another one.
What I Have So Far
My most recent is Bally, PA (19503). Bally is a borough in Berks County, Pennsylvania, United States. The population was 1,090 at the 2010 census. I don't know why this information is important. I guess it means it's a small town. Unless you are in one room with 1,000 some people, then it's a lot of people.
As far as notable people - In 1912, Bally resident Annie Clemmer Funk, a Mennonite missionary to India, died during the sinking of the RMS Titanic. She was en route to Bally to visit her ailing mother, and reportedly gave up her seat in a lifeboat to another passenger or child.
That's a pretty good deed there, Annie. She was only 38 at the time.
I did get a drive-by of the Lake Placid, New York Post Office. It was in a bit of an awkward place and it is also a little hard to explain to Mr. Wonderful you need to stop the car NOW to get a picture of a US Post Office.
There are a lot of great things you can do in Lake Placid - the Post Office is not that far from great Olympic stuff - you can go Ice Skating and even Bobsledding in this sweet location.
Plus, look at that snow! I love a snowy day. You know. In winter. I like my summer, too.
I am not sure why the flag was at half mass. I feel like I should, but, I feel like maybe it was a local thing. It was December 23, 2012.
My third US Post Office was in New York City, New York when I went for one of my first vacations and birthday celebrations ever! I don't get a lot of birthday love 'cept from my parents.
I also lost some weight since then - so. . .this is a great picture. Also, the post office is huge. . .I couldn't get any other markings on it in the picture I was making my friend, Jeff, take.
Anyhow, this is the James Farley Post Office (10001), which was named that in 1982, is the main post office building in New York City. It was built in 1912, and is inscribed with: Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.
The Farley Post Office is home to "Operation Santa", made famous in the classic 1947 film Miracle on 34th Street..
My first US Post Office ever, well. it was Paramus, New Jersey (07652). I was lost at the time, I think. Paramus use to be settled by indigenous people - the Lenape people.
Not much really happened here. There was some military set-ups and an African-American colony for freed slaves throughout the Revolution and Civil Wars (respectively).
The city only got its act together in about 1970 - it had lacked any real planning before then.
So, behold, the NJ Paramus US Post Office.
Check-In Will Happen
Yep. Here we go! I'll update you on some of my photos and let you know a little about them. I think it might make for some good road trips.
What I Have So Far
 |
| Bally, PA |
As far as notable people - In 1912, Bally resident Annie Clemmer Funk, a Mennonite missionary to India, died during the sinking of the RMS Titanic. She was en route to Bally to visit her ailing mother, and reportedly gave up her seat in a lifeboat to another passenger or child.
That's a pretty good deed there, Annie. She was only 38 at the time.
There are a lot of great things you can do in Lake Placid - the Post Office is not that far from great Olympic stuff - you can go Ice Skating and even Bobsledding in this sweet location.
Plus, look at that snow! I love a snowy day. You know. In winter. I like my summer, too.
I am not sure why the flag was at half mass. I feel like I should, but, I feel like maybe it was a local thing. It was December 23, 2012.
 |
| NY, NY |
I also lost some weight since then - so. . .this is a great picture. Also, the post office is huge. . .I couldn't get any other markings on it in the picture I was making my friend, Jeff, take.
Anyhow, this is the James Farley Post Office (10001), which was named that in 1982, is the main post office building in New York City. It was built in 1912, and is inscribed with: Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.
The Farley Post Office is home to "Operation Santa", made famous in the classic 1947 film Miracle on 34th Street..
 |
| Paramus, NJ |
Not much really happened here. There was some military set-ups and an African-American colony for freed slaves throughout the Revolution and Civil Wars (respectively).
The city only got its act together in about 1970 - it had lacked any real planning before then.
So, behold, the NJ Paramus US Post Office.
Check-In Will Happen
Yep. Here we go! I'll update you on some of my photos and let you know a little about them. I think it might make for some good road trips.
My man-friend has Prius.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Jun 10, 2013
I am in no way a fashion person, but I do like to look and feel good. I like to dress appropriately for the situations I am in. Work is one of those areas.
I have only worked in highly casual areas of companies, so, jeans were good to wear. However, I did notice
my look-good-feel-good connection was dwindling as more and more people were taking casual to newer, lower levels.
I don't think we are re-defining "casual" - I think it is just really easy to get lazy. I know this because sloth is my favorite of the deadly sins and I have gotten lazy in how I dress on many occasions. I always snap back when I think - why do you want to present yourself badly to those who control your income?
After all, I have a big mouth and I'm clumsy. I really can't be dressing sloppy when I know I'm going to mess up 500 work related things a day. If I can control how I look - if I can make it look like I belong in corporate America - maybe it will dull the fact I just erased the Internet.
Rules
Here are some rules for buying clothes.
Image of dress types from whatcanyoudowiththat.com
Flip flops from thehouseofbeck.com
I have only worked in highly casual areas of companies, so, jeans were good to wear. However, I did notice
I don't think we are re-defining "casual" - I think it is just really easy to get lazy. I know this because sloth is my favorite of the deadly sins and I have gotten lazy in how I dress on many occasions. I always snap back when I think - why do you want to present yourself badly to those who control your income?
After all, I have a big mouth and I'm clumsy. I really can't be dressing sloppy when I know I'm going to mess up 500 work related things a day. If I can control how I look - if I can make it look like I belong in corporate America - maybe it will dull the fact I just erased the Internet.
Rules
Here are some rules for buying clothes.
- Thou shall only buy clothes that fit. If you need to go a size up, do it! It's better to look good that be obsessed with a size. When trying things on, get the size you think you should wear and then one up and maybe one down so you know how everything fits and lays.
- Thou shall not be a slave to trends. A couple pieces of trend clothing is great to spice up your wardrobe but your wardrobe should be made up of at least 80% basics. This will stretch your budget and then you an always build off it.
- No dual purpose clothes. Never wear anything you would wear to the gym, beach or with puky babies. This includes flip-flops. Sorry, I am anti-workplace flip-flops. On an unrelated note, I am pro-pedicure.
- Work then dress. The quality and statement of your work should always surpass your clothes. Don't dress like you are some type of CEO, do work that makes people want you to be the CEO. Don't go to work proving you are sexy - work to prove you belong there.
- Dress for you. Some say, "Dress for the job you want." No. Dress appropriately for the role you are in and keep yourself professional looking so those who make the decisions to promote will have a good impression of you. Then let your work speak. If you work in a casual place and wear a tux hoping to be promoted - it will be weird.
- Take pride. Bad day = sweats? Stop. Take pride in how you look in the workplace, even on bad days.
Mad Maddie rules - here is what I live by:
- No flip-flops: Really. None.
- Pantsless Wednesday: Every Wednesday (almost) I wear a dress. At least once a week, I dress up like I am going to be meeting the CEO or going to an important meeting. It keeps me honest. You could also check out when I wore a dress everyday for a week in my 7 Days - No Pants post.
- Cover up: Side on the side of modesty - cover shoulders, no cleavage and nothing tight fitting. It might not be how I would dress for a night on the town or on the weekends, it is how I dress for work.
- Be Comfortable: I refuse to wear things that are uncomfortable. Shoes, pants, shirts, bras - whatever. Life is uncomfortable, there is no need for me to create more discomfort. If an article of clothing is not comfortable and work appropriate, I donate it.
- Avoid Trends: I just avoid them in my work attire. I want classic things I don't have to re-buy every season or so. I can trend-it-up on my off time, at work, I will stick to things I can always wear. This doesn't mean I don't adore and wear brightly colored pumps or have no flare - I just make sure to reduce anything that would "date" me.
Thoughts
What are some of your work dos and don'ts? What do you do if you have a co-worker who dresses inappropriately? Do you say nasty things behind his/her back or do you talk to him/her about it. Is there any way a company can nicely enforce a dress-code?
Leave me a comment!
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Image CreditDo you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Image of dress types from whatcanyoudowiththat.com
Flip flops from thehouseofbeck.com
Jun 7, 2013
Mission Level: Success
Background
I have never been on a wine tasting - not like an official one. Every little wine shop and whatnot will let you
sample wines, that doesn't mean you learn anything or that it's a real wine tasting.
Fast forward to my stupidly-handsome man-friend who really likes learning about wine and we are on a wine tasting adventure. It was actually his friend who found our exact location which was Sand Castle Winery.
Sand Castle Winery
The Winery is located in PA. Pennsylvania is not known for its wine, let me tell yous.
However, Sand Castle Winery sits on the type of soil best for growing grapes for wine and also right next to a river. All of this mimics the same conditions in places like Napa Valley. This makes a huge difference in the quality and type of wine. The company also started by building up the vinyard first, then they built the "castle" building. This means they function well as a business. Here is some history from the website:
The tasting was done really well - we did the VIP Educational Tour which let us taste 11 wines. I have been
to some vineyards where they pour you a little wine and give you some crackers.
Not here.
First, 11 wines from tart to sweet with a little lesson about each. The guy also talked about what the labels mean - estate bottled vs.we bought the juice and bottled it here. Then we did experiments.
Love. Experiments.
We chewed on some rosemary and thyme and took a sip of wines. We even tried wine with a little lemon olive oil and wasabi. All this altered the flavor and really gave you a good idea of what foods would go with the wines. Suddenly, a wine I would never sip on my own became a must have for a certain dish I liked. I know most people know this, but, to really have it broken down was awesome. I'm very much a "sniff 'n' taste" type cook, this was right up my alley.
Also, I found a new cheese I must aquire - an espresso Asiago cheese. It was delightful! Thankfully, I can purchase this closer to home. Knowing my love of a fine cheese, though, it will be gone before I get it home.
Best conversation:
Once we were done with the wine portion, the guy did takes us to where the store and bottle the wine. After a couple glasses of wine, it seems pretty impressive. He talked about the aging process and pointed out items he had talked about during the tasting - now with visuals.
In my picture over there, you can see the oak barrels where they age some of the wines - you can also see the stainless steel tanks where "naked wine" is produced.
Nope, did giggle at all. Just held on to the rail.
The Grounds
At the winery, they were set up for a wedding. We arrived around 11am and left around 3pm without a single sighting of a wedding happening. Ok, there was a some car decorated with "Here comes the Bride" and toil and whatnot - but I thought maybe they always had that setup to drum up more business. It is a very nice place for a wedding.
We did take some nice pictures - there are more, but, no one has sent any too me. Bummer.
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Image Credit
Wine label example from flavorofspain.com
Background
I have never been on a wine tasting - not like an official one. Every little wine shop and whatnot will let you
 |
| I didn't take this picture |
Fast forward to my stupidly-handsome man-friend who really likes learning about wine and we are on a wine tasting adventure. It was actually his friend who found our exact location which was Sand Castle Winery.
Sand Castle Winery
The Winery is located in PA. Pennsylvania is not known for its wine, let me tell yous.
However, Sand Castle Winery sits on the type of soil best for growing grapes for wine and also right next to a river. All of this mimics the same conditions in places like Napa Valley. This makes a huge difference in the quality and type of wine. The company also started by building up the vinyard first, then they built the "castle" building. This means they function well as a business. Here is some history from the website:
 |
| From the parking lot |
Sand Castle Winery, nestled on the banks of the Delaware River in historic Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is the purveyor of world class wines with a long and noble heritage.
Sand Castle's founders, Joseph and Paul Maxian, were born and raised in Bratislava, Czechoslovakia, a region renowned for wine making before even the Romans ruled the world.
In 1974 our family purchased a hillside property in Bucks County overlooking the Delaware River and our dream of Sand Castle Winery was born. In the early 1980s, we began construction of the winery building. Against all odds, and after decades of continuous effort, our Castle was finally completed in 2007.Wine and Cheese
The tasting was done really well - we did the VIP Educational Tour which let us taste 11 wines. I have been
Not here.
First, 11 wines from tart to sweet with a little lesson about each. The guy also talked about what the labels mean - estate bottled vs.we bought the juice and bottled it here. Then we did experiments.
Love. Experiments.
We chewed on some rosemary and thyme and took a sip of wines. We even tried wine with a little lemon olive oil and wasabi. All this altered the flavor and really gave you a good idea of what foods would go with the wines. Suddenly, a wine I would never sip on my own became a must have for a certain dish I liked. I know most people know this, but, to really have it broken down was awesome. I'm very much a "sniff 'n' taste" type cook, this was right up my alley.
Also, I found a new cheese I must aquire - an espresso Asiago cheese. It was delightful! Thankfully, I can purchase this closer to home. Knowing my love of a fine cheese, though, it will be gone before I get it home.
Best conversation:
Handsome man-friend: Wait, you didn't even have breakfast.
Manda: *hiccup*
 |
| Wine cellar |
In my picture over there, you can see the oak barrels where they age some of the wines - you can also see the stainless steel tanks where "naked wine" is produced.
Nope, did giggle at all. Just held on to the rail.
The Grounds
At the winery, they were set up for a wedding. We arrived around 11am and left around 3pm without a single sighting of a wedding happening. Ok, there was a some car decorated with "Here comes the Bride" and toil and whatnot - but I thought maybe they always had that setup to drum up more business. It is a very nice place for a wedding.
 |
| Beautiful |
 |
| My guy taking better pictures than me |
Be Part of the Adventure
Do you have a suggestion or want to see me attempt something? Drop me an email at AdventuringAmanda@gmail.com with your suggestion.
Image Credit
Wine label example from flavorofspain.com
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