Feb 27, 2013
Mission Level
Success! It's ongoing . . .
I actually did not foster one animal - I ended up fostering three animals (and will probably foster more). I am not allowed to have dogs in my apartment, so I fostere cats.
I should mention, I love animals. I am not a "dog person" or a "cat person" or a "goat person" or whatever - I have never met an animal I have not been fond of. I grew up with one cat and had a summer job as a pet sitter where I had a whole selection of animals to take care of. I rode horses, too. Love animals.
My fostering started off with me just wanting a cat - a pet. I filled out the application with a local rescue group, Pet Adoption and Lifecare Society. I was then told the cat I wanted, a handsome black boy named Forrest was already adopted. I was offered a selection of other black cats.
I ended up saying I wasn't looking for a black cat, I was looking for a cat. I offered up my living arrangements and asked if there was some cat without an eye or leg or something. Maybe a stinky cat who hates everyone and is about to be euthanize or something.
After some back and forth, it was decided they had a need for fosters to take on some Feline leukemia (FeLV) cats because they tend to have a shorter life expectancy and no one wants them.
I ended up fostering a cat who was called "Macadamia" but I renamed Charlie. Names are important, he was totally not a Macadamia.
I only had Charlie about two months before he died. He was a sweet guy who loved to snuggle and be held. He was a little talker, too. He told me when it was time to go to bed and time to get up.
Losing a pet, however long or short you have had him/her, is always painful. I missed Charlie a lot but I missed having an animal around more. I went back to PALS for two reasons - one was to get another cat, the other was to get Charlie's brother who was then called "Almond." I had met Almond when I went to pick up Charlie, and even then Pat (the president) said it looked like he had picked me. I had to go back to pick up this cat.
Almond, as it was, hated being alone and had a little companion named Lucy, both were FuLuk positive and I ended up coming home that night with two cats. I never had two cats. I didn't think I would ever have two cats, but, then I had two cats.
I ended up renaming Almond to Henry because he looks like a Henry No, I don't name all my animals human names. Sometimes you have to see an animal and you can tell what his/her name should be.
His little friend was a girl I had met before named Lucy. She came with that name and it worked for her. I had hoped she would have been adopted into a nice family, but, no one came for her.
A few months after bringing them home, Lucy ended up getting Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) and I had to put her down. To months later, I had to put Henry down after he contracted pneumonia. I had to leave him for a couple days and I don't think that helped. But, there was not much that could have been done, either way. I got to spend the last night with him and put him down on Christmas Eve.
Putting an animal down is hard. Death is a natural part of life, and when you know an animal is suffering, there is some comfort in knowing you are ending that suffering. However, it's never easy and there is always some pain. Henry, I will say, was the most painful of them.
And The Cat Came Back
Now, I have this cat named Lucky.
I didn't want to get another cat so soon after Henry died and I was enjoying the time to myself and lack of cleaning and worrying I had to to do. But, when people learn you are a sucker and have a sob story, you end up taking in another cat.
Lucky should only be with me for three months. I am not sure what the exit plan is, I don't want to ask again because I have a feeling he might be with me for longer. I am hoping he gets a good home after the three months and tests negative for FeLv. He only tested he was exposed.
Common Questions
Here are the common questions I get about my fostering thing:
I would suggest anyone who can foster an animal should. Fostering means you do not own the animal and depending on the group you work for, you might not have to buy food or pay any medical (I didn't pay medical).
You will have to be home, though. I think this is the wall I am hitting now. These animals might have been passed around, abused and removed from everything they know. They might have been abused or starved. It is important to give them some structure and be around for them.
I know a lot of people tell me, "Oh, it's just a cat. Cats hate people." That is not true. Most are very lonely and miss you when you are gone. They want to snuggle and get attention. They can feel emotions, it's just a different level. For example, cats don't feel guilt. They do feel lonely and hurt.
The real bright side is that because you foster, you get the animal out of a shelter or kennel which is always a better life. Plus, because the animal is in a home environment, s/he can become more adoptable due to lower anxiety and more love. There are so many animals out there who need homes, a shelter should be the last resort.
Also, if you foster, you can have more animals.
Success! It's ongoing . . .
I actually did not foster one animal - I ended up fostering three animals (and will probably foster more). I am not allowed to have dogs in my apartment, so I fostere cats.
I should mention, I love animals. I am not a "dog person" or a "cat person" or a "goat person" or whatever - I have never met an animal I have not been fond of. I grew up with one cat and had a summer job as a pet sitter where I had a whole selection of animals to take care of. I rode horses, too. Love animals.
My fostering started off with me just wanting a cat - a pet. I filled out the application with a local rescue group, Pet Adoption and Lifecare Society. I was then told the cat I wanted, a handsome black boy named Forrest was already adopted. I was offered a selection of other black cats.
I ended up saying I wasn't looking for a black cat, I was looking for a cat. I offered up my living arrangements and asked if there was some cat without an eye or leg or something. Maybe a stinky cat who hates everyone and is about to be euthanize or something.
 |
| My little Charlie |
I ended up fostering a cat who was called "Macadamia" but I renamed Charlie. Names are important, he was totally not a Macadamia.
I only had Charlie about two months before he died. He was a sweet guy who loved to snuggle and be held. He was a little talker, too. He told me when it was time to go to bed and time to get up.
Losing a pet, however long or short you have had him/her, is always painful. I missed Charlie a lot but I missed having an animal around more. I went back to PALS for two reasons - one was to get another cat, the other was to get Charlie's brother who was then called "Almond." I had met Almond when I went to pick up Charlie, and even then Pat (the president) said it looked like he had picked me. I had to go back to pick up this cat.
 |
| Lucy the calico and Henry the bandit |
I ended up renaming Almond to Henry because he looks like a Henry No, I don't name all my animals human names. Sometimes you have to see an animal and you can tell what his/her name should be.
His little friend was a girl I had met before named Lucy. She came with that name and it worked for her. I had hoped she would have been adopted into a nice family, but, no one came for her.
A few months after bringing them home, Lucy ended up getting Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) and I had to put her down. To months later, I had to put Henry down after he contracted pneumonia. I had to leave him for a couple days and I don't think that helped. But, there was not much that could have been done, either way. I got to spend the last night with him and put him down on Christmas Eve.
Putting an animal down is hard. Death is a natural part of life, and when you know an animal is suffering, there is some comfort in knowing you are ending that suffering. However, it's never easy and there is always some pain. Henry, I will say, was the most painful of them.
And The Cat Came Back
 |
| I am trying to work. . . |
I didn't want to get another cat so soon after Henry died and I was enjoying the time to myself and lack of cleaning and worrying I had to to do. But, when people learn you are a sucker and have a sob story, you end up taking in another cat.
Lucky should only be with me for three months. I am not sure what the exit plan is, I don't want to ask again because I have a feeling he might be with me for longer. I am hoping he gets a good home after the three months and tests negative for FeLv. He only tested he was exposed.
Common Questions
Here are the common questions I get about my fostering thing:
- Do you pay for everything? No, I pay for food and litter. Not medical.
- Do you pick the cats? Not really, a lot of time, it is what is needed. I do pick when I want a cat. Mostly.
- Is it sad? If you love animals, you know they are pretty awesome. They offer me a wealth of fun and laughter. The good outweighs the bad, a million fold.
- Are you a crazy cat lady? Only two of those words really apply to me.
- How can you give them up? No one really comes back for them, they are with me until they die. I think it will be hard to hand Lucky over to someone, it would have to be a stellar home and I will have to get updates.
- How can you watch an animal die or put an animal down? It's part of my job as a human, God gave us dominion over the animals, that means it is up to us to protect them. Animal husbandry is important and making those decisions is hard but when they are for the best, they have their own rhythem.
I would suggest anyone who can foster an animal should. Fostering means you do not own the animal and depending on the group you work for, you might not have to buy food or pay any medical (I didn't pay medical).
 |
| Not crazy |
I know a lot of people tell me, "Oh, it's just a cat. Cats hate people." That is not true. Most are very lonely and miss you when you are gone. They want to snuggle and get attention. They can feel emotions, it's just a different level. For example, cats don't feel guilt. They do feel lonely and hurt.
The real bright side is that because you foster, you get the animal out of a shelter or kennel which is always a better life. Plus, because the animal is in a home environment, s/he can become more adoptable due to lower anxiety and more love. There are so many animals out there who need homes, a shelter should be the last resort.
Also, if you foster, you can have more animals.
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.
Feb 25, 2013
I had another chance to cook for people! You might remember by gypsy stew from Cook For Others: Part 1. This time, the request was helping my hunky-manfriend make some vegan chili for his coworkers. His supervisor is a vegan and he said he would bring in some chili that she could eat. I believe it was a potluck shower office thing.
Vegan
Being vegan means you can't eat anything with animal products. I lived as a vegan for a week - if you remember my Vegan Challenge post.
The key to making a stellar vegan chili rests on two things:
Vegan
Being vegan means you can't eat anything with animal products. I lived as a vegan for a week - if you remember my Vegan Challenge post.
The key to making a stellar vegan chili rests on two things:
- Tomato paste: People underestimate the power of tomato paste which is a healthy, cheap way to thicken things. You can make everything that would have tomato sauce in it with paste.
- Proper protein crumbles: Key for texture, flavor and flare. You don't really want just "fake meat" you want a nice texture and well flavored food.
My Chili
 |
| Sexy |
My man-friend was going to come over and help make the chili, but, he was having a roughish week and I got out of work first, so, I started making it. It's pretty simple.
I know peppers can be expensive and go bad fast, so, I get them frozen and kept them in my freezer. You can pop them into a pot
frozen.
I also did not make this chili that hot because that is something people can doctor up on their own and not everyone has the same definition of "spicy."
- Large onion - chopped.
- Garlic - chopped.
- Carrot - chopped.
- Olive oil.
- Red, green, yellow peppers (a good amount).
- Black beans with chilies.
- 12oz Tomato paste.
- Lightlife Smart Ground - Veggie Protein Crumbles (best kind out there!)
- Vegan veggie broth (optional)
- Thyme.
- Coriander - powder (one of my fav spices).
- Red pepper flakes.
- Chile powder.
You will need a dutch oven - I happen to have a Le Creuset French Oven.
Saute up the onion for about 5-7 minutes in the olive oil. Then add in the carrots and peppers and continue to saute until the peppers are tender. Add in the garlic, coriander and thyme and mix that up all good and nice, maybe another minute. Add in the beans and protein crumbles and mix everything together until the crumbles are in their proper crumble pieces and not big chunks. Add in the can of tomato paste - the more you add, the thicker the chili will be. Add in some veggie broth if you want to thin it out. Add in the red pepper flakes to taste and any chili powder (I did not add much).
Let everything cook a bit and all the favors merge. Done.
Results
 |
| Vegan chili? |
I loaded the chili up in crockpot so it could be transported and kept warm for the shower.
I wrote down everything that I put into the chili so everyone knows what they are eating - it never hurts to know these things.
I really wasn't sure how it would go over since a lot of people see "VEGAN" and get scared I hoped I didn't hurt my man-friend's reputation and I hoped the vegan liked what I had made. As an omnivore, I thought it would be enjoyable to everyone.
Other than I don't like beans and they hurt my tummy.
 |
| Noms! |
Toward the end of the afternoon, I got a text from my guy stating everyone liked the chili. Really?
Yeah, He sent me a picture of the remains. I think people really thought the protein crumbles made a difference. I'm glad it was a hit! If you ever need to make a sweet vegan chili, do it! I suggest to use the Lightlife Smart Ground - Veggie Protein Crumbles but you can alter anything else to make a fantastic chili.
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
TJ peppers from hungryforliving.com
Feb 22, 2013
Mission Level
Abandon all hope.
The Challenge
Well, you can read about how I don't really read in my Read 20 Books and my crash and burn while I was trying to read 20 books in my Read 20 Book:Update.
I am officially abandoning this mission. I still haven't finished The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and that's pretty sad.
Reflection
The stuff I actually have been reading are blogs. A number of my friends have blogs and I enjoy reading about what they are up to and what they are interested in. There are also some blogs I found by chance that I like to read.
However, hardly anyone updates on a regular basis - maybe one or two.
As redemption, here is a list of the blogs I have programmed into my reader and which I keep up-to-date on:
Do you have a blog or know a blog I should follow because it is awesome? I only like awesome things and part of "awesome" means it is updated on a regular basis.
Let me know by commenting below and I will program the blogs into my reader.
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.
Abandon all hope.
The Challenge
Well, you can read about how I don't really read in my Read 20 Books and my crash and burn while I was trying to read 20 books in my Read 20 Book:Update.
I am officially abandoning this mission. I still haven't finished The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and that's pretty sad.
Reflection
 |
| My reader |
However, hardly anyone updates on a regular basis - maybe one or two.
As redemption, here is a list of the blogs I have programmed into my reader and which I keep up-to-date on:
- 52 Pancakes
- Blank Blankity Blank
- Budget Bytes
- Dorkabetic
- I Didn't Get Fat Accidentally...
- Live Like A Hippy
- M2 Photography
- Reese Kistel
- RunKeeper
Do you have a blog or know a blog I should follow because it is awesome? I only like awesome things and part of "awesome" means it is updated on a regular basis.
Let me know by commenting below and I will program the blogs into my reader.
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.
Feb 20, 2013
Mission Level
Fail-ish
A while back, I stated I was going to try three separate diets to expand my horizons. I succeeded in being a vegan for 7 days - you can find that in my Vegan Challenge post.
Why Fail?
I originally wanted to try three types of diets. I really struggle figuring out the two others ones I stated I was going to do. If you remember, they were:
I'm just giving up on this. It's lent and I guess I lost a lot of steam when I comes to doing these things. I haven't been eating as much as I have been (I actually lost about 5lbs) so trying to fit into one of these diets would actually be pretty easy. The vegan thing was the hardest.
Being Healthy
The original challenge was to "eat a normal, healthy diet." I did re-join with MyFitnessPal with a couple friends, so, I have been tracking my food and making some good choices.
A not good choice was eating an entire box of Caramel deLites aka Samoas. I call them Samoas which I believe is not considered offensive. I never mean to offend - I just always knew them as Samoas. Anyhow, I would like to say I won that battle but I did spend a little time in the bathroom that night. Yep. Awesome.
Fail-ish
A while back, I stated I was going to try three separate diets to expand my horizons. I succeeded in being a vegan for 7 days - you can find that in my Vegan Challenge post.
I originally wanted to try three types of diets. I really struggle figuring out the two others ones I stated I was going to do. If you remember, they were:
- Vegan: No animal products or by-products allowed.
- Locavore: Food only can come from the local area where you live.
- Islamic: Diet derived from commandments found in the Qur'an, the Hadith and Sunnah.
I'm just giving up on this. It's lent and I guess I lost a lot of steam when I comes to doing these things. I haven't been eating as much as I have been (I actually lost about 5lbs) so trying to fit into one of these diets would actually be pretty easy. The vegan thing was the hardest.
Being Healthy
The original challenge was to "eat a normal, healthy diet." I did re-join with MyFitnessPal with a couple friends, so, I have been tracking my food and making some good choices.
A not good choice was eating an entire box of Caramel deLites aka Samoas. I call them Samoas which I believe is not considered offensive. I never mean to offend - I just always knew them as Samoas. Anyhow, I would like to say I won that battle but I did spend a little time in the bathroom that night. Yep. Awesome.
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.
Feb 18, 2013
Whatever you think about Valentine's Day and if it was made up my Hallmark (untrue - it was made up by William Arthur. Haha. Anyone get it? Anyone?) or something that needs hardcore celebration, well, I don't care. This is my blog.
I happen to enjoy Valentine's Day. Not because I don't show my love to people throughout the year, but, any excuse to celebrate is super-duper to me. One of my take-aways from being sick was to celebrate things more, use the fine china more and all that. Valentine's Day is right up my alley - a reason to be sappy without getting a strange look.
However, I never had a great Valentine's Day. Mine all sucked or I spent the time doing a lot more for other people and ended up mostly alone and exhausted.
The only bring spot every year my Dad sends me flowers. Yeah. That's right. Every year.
He use to just send them to my apartment or dorm when I wasn't living at home, but, then he started sending them to me at work.
First, Valentine's Day is really the fest day for a collection of guys whom may or may not have had the last name of Valentine. This collection of men or single priest is often considered a Christian who ended up getting killed because he married a lot of people into the Christian faith. You have to remember, marriage meant a lot more back then in the sense of families, inheritance and political-social economics. It wasn't too long ago men and women could not even choose their mate. Love, by the way, is also a modern concept when it comes to marriage.
But, I digress.
In 496 AD Pope Gelasius marked February 14th as a celebration of St. Valentine.
The idea is to spend the day intotal debauchery honoring and loving those in your life and renewing vows and things like that. Sure, you should be doing that everyday, but setting aside a special day to make a sure point of it is pretty sweet.
This Year
I am with a really awesome guy and, quite honestly, unlike past fantasies of awesome dinners and bubble baths, I really just want to use Valentine's Day as a day to take some time out and spend some time with him.
However, I'm going to be doing it right.
Sure, it would be nicer if Valentine's was on a Friday or Saturday when it comes to preparation time, but, I can't make it work. It would also be nice if Valentine's Day wasn't happening the day after the first day of Lent.
Who makes up this lent date range stuff? Oh right, the Council of Nicaea - lent is 46 days before the paschal full moon, which is the full moon that falls on or after the vernal equinox.
Truly Tuning In
Many people think Val's Day is about flowers, chocolates and jewelry - this is the industry speaking and not your heart. Really, you need to tune in to who you are with and what you want to do. Single? Get some friends together and celebrate life with a movie, going to the bar, an afternoon tea or a spa day.
This Valentine's Day, when I went to pick up the flowers from my Dad at the front desk, there was a vase filled with skewers of small pickles, olives and asparagus
What?
Yep, one of the front desk girl's husband made it and brought it in. Why? Everyday he brings her the pickles from his sandwich so he made the bouquet for her and she loved it.
I hate everything in that mix but asparagus but I thought it was pretty sweet and she was over the moon at the gesture. She even said she was going to wrap the asparagus in bacon for dinner that night.
The point is - what makes you and those you love happy - for realz! Then do it. For me and my guy, spending some time together cuddling while watching Dual Survival and having dinner was the ticket.
Of course, with a couple touches.
Ambiance
I am a huge fan of candles, and with a Home Goods close by, a quick scan of the super-discount area earned me a couple packs of scented tea lights. Tea lights are pretty safe - they burn out after an hour or so - and come in their own little holders. If you are smart about it, you can reuse the little containers by getting some candle wax and wicks. Or find something crafty to do with them.
Anyhow, tea lights set a pretty nice mood and when you can get a nice scented group, is can quickly move scent around. I like smell.
My tip if you are going for this effect is to make sure you pick something that will blend with any food you're eating. Nothing is worse than trying to enjoy a steak with some cucumber-mint scent tickling your nose. I also hate cucumber.
Food
Going out is fun, but, I like cooking for my guy, too. Plus, you can make things exactly as you want and there are always seconds. Ever ask for seconds at a restaurant? Right.
Unless you are at Fogo de Chao or something. Buffets. Yum.
We both like seafood so I made a mixed sea-critter pasta with basil. Seafood tends to cook fast so it's really just boiling up some (rice) noodles and seasoning. I stated with sauteing some onions and garlic - then dumped in the seafood. People don't spend enough time with simple combinations of food and then playing with seasoning. As much as I love butter and sugars and as hard as it is for me to get enough salt sometimes (seriously, I have sea salt at my desk) a well stocked spice rack can delight your taste buds while being gentle on parts you don't want to be jiggly.
Gifts
I'm making dinner - I didn't plan on getting a gift. However, I do like a nice card with a personal penned note. I bank a lot on being creative. And funny. Mostly funny.
Hey, what do you call a fake noodle? An impasta!
For my guy, I got him a card. I also have a tradition of sending him a "Good morning _____" text every morning - for the blank, I come up with some funny name or saying. I printed all of these out for him so he had every "good morning" name. I also made a list of every reason why I am with him - some funny and some snappy. All true though!
This Valentine's Day
I had a blast because I was cuddled on my couch with my guy. I got roses from my guy (even though I told him to save his money) and even a nice bracelet. I think I liked them more because he was excited to give them to me. I never was with someone who was also happy to celebrate Valentine's Day as I was.
But I really got some one-on-one time with my super-hot boyfriend. I hope I have a lot more Valentine's with him and I am pretty sure I will. I even posted a snappy Facebook post about it.
I also adore that my Dad sends me flowers.
That's love, man.
Best. Valentines. Ever.
Image Credit
Tea lights from conwayfire.org (good tips on not buring down your house)
Seafood from virginia-belle.blogspot.com
I happen to enjoy Valentine's Day. Not because I don't show my love to people throughout the year, but, any excuse to celebrate is super-duper to me. One of my take-aways from being sick was to celebrate things more, use the fine china more and all that. Valentine's Day is right up my alley - a reason to be sappy without getting a strange look.
 |
| Flowers from Dad |
The only bring spot every year my Dad sends me flowers. Yeah. That's right. Every year.
He use to just send them to my apartment or dorm when I wasn't living at home, but, then he started sending them to me at work.
Dad: I hope you weren't embarrassed that I sent you flowers at work.History
Me: No, everyone came over to look and all thought you were the best Dad ever for sending me flowers.
Dad: Good. I don't want any guys sniffing around your desk, either. I want to make sure they see those flowers and back off.
Me: Thanks, Dad.
 |
| I'll marry you |
But, I digress.
In 496 AD Pope Gelasius marked February 14th as a celebration of St. Valentine.
The idea is to spend the day in
This Year
I am with a really awesome guy and, quite honestly, unlike past fantasies of awesome dinners and bubble baths, I really just want to use Valentine's Day as a day to take some time out and spend some time with him.
However, I'm going to be doing it right.
Sure, it would be nicer if Valentine's was on a Friday or Saturday when it comes to preparation time, but, I can't make it work. It would also be nice if Valentine's Day wasn't happening the day after the first day of Lent.
Who makes up this lent date range stuff? Oh right, the Council of Nicaea - lent is 46 days before the paschal full moon, which is the full moon that falls on or after the vernal equinox.
Truly Tuning In
Many people think Val's Day is about flowers, chocolates and jewelry - this is the industry speaking and not your heart. Really, you need to tune in to who you are with and what you want to do. Single? Get some friends together and celebrate life with a movie, going to the bar, an afternoon tea or a spa day.
This Valentine's Day, when I went to pick up the flowers from my Dad at the front desk, there was a vase filled with skewers of small pickles, olives and asparagus
What?
Yep, one of the front desk girl's husband made it and brought it in. Why? Everyday he brings her the pickles from his sandwich so he made the bouquet for her and she loved it.
I hate everything in that mix but asparagus but I thought it was pretty sweet and she was over the moon at the gesture. She even said she was going to wrap the asparagus in bacon for dinner that night.
The point is - what makes you and those you love happy - for realz! Then do it. For me and my guy, spending some time together cuddling while watching Dual Survival and having dinner was the ticket.
Of course, with a couple touches.
Ambiance
Anyhow, tea lights set a pretty nice mood and when you can get a nice scented group, is can quickly move scent around. I like smell.
My tip if you are going for this effect is to make sure you pick something that will blend with any food you're eating. Nothing is worse than trying to enjoy a steak with some cucumber-mint scent tickling your nose. I also hate cucumber.
Food
Going out is fun, but, I like cooking for my guy, too. Plus, you can make things exactly as you want and there are always seconds. Ever ask for seconds at a restaurant? Right.Unless you are at Fogo de Chao or something. Buffets. Yum.
We both like seafood so I made a mixed sea-critter pasta with basil. Seafood tends to cook fast so it's really just boiling up some (rice) noodles and seasoning. I stated with sauteing some onions and garlic - then dumped in the seafood. People don't spend enough time with simple combinations of food and then playing with seasoning. As much as I love butter and sugars and as hard as it is for me to get enough salt sometimes (seriously, I have sea salt at my desk) a well stocked spice rack can delight your taste buds while being gentle on parts you don't want to be jiggly.
Gifts
 |
| My gift - my face |
Hey, what do you call a fake noodle? An impasta!
For my guy, I got him a card. I also have a tradition of sending him a "Good morning _____" text every morning - for the blank, I come up with some funny name or saying. I printed all of these out for him so he had every "good morning" name. I also made a list of every reason why I am with him - some funny and some snappy. All true though!
This Valentine's Day
I had a blast because I was cuddled on my couch with my guy. I got roses from my guy (even though I told him to save his money) and even a nice bracelet. I think I liked them more because he was excited to give them to me. I never was with someone who was also happy to celebrate Valentine's Day as I was.
 |
| Roses from my love |
But I really got some one-on-one time with my super-hot boyfriend. I hope I have a lot more Valentine's with him and I am pretty sure I will. I even posted a snappy Facebook post about it.
I also adore that my Dad sends me flowers.
That's love, man.
Best. Valentines. Ever.
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
Tea lights from conwayfire.org (good tips on not buring down your house)
Seafood from virginia-belle.blogspot.com
Feb 15, 2013
People show love in different ways, in fact, understanding how people love is a key to understanding them.
My Subject
I am 100% to blame for my super-hot boyfriend being unable to lose weight - although he is working on some rock hard biceps.
Hang on. I need a moment.
My guy is basically forced to deal with me cooking for him - joyfully, too. I mean, I'm not super-awesome cook or something, I'm sort of a sniff-and-dump cook. I dump some stuff together, sniff some seasonings and add based on my nose.
Although, I have been doing this as a way to feed myself since the 2000s. I do come from a long line of great home cooks.
Finding People
Sometime it is hard to get in there for others. I think this is because we are trained in the rhotic of helping others more than the function. Sometimes it feels like things would be easier if the victim got him/herself together so s/he could figure out how to direct the people who have no clue what to do.
Making it Work
Being there for others shouldn't completely drain you or bring you to a place you can't get up from - though sometimes you have to throw yourself on the fire for someone. Anyhow, I learned it is good to have a couple things on hand so when someone needs you, you don't have to scramble.
These items include:
Ok, there is more.
You might want to alter the list if you have a friend who love something or has some specific comfort food - like chocolate. I don't really keep chocolate around. I don't like it.
Chop up the stuff and put it in the pot. Cover with water. Simmer for an hour or whatever. You can make a huge pot and freeze part of it for whenever the flu season strikes. Once you nail this recipe you can add or subtract things you like or don't like.
I got into what I call "gypsy stew" when I moved out - it started with a chicken, tomato and cheese stew and progressed. I don't like broth, I like something I have to chew and makes me think I ate a meal. I was also very poor. I mean, my parents had to send me money so I wasn't out on the street while I worked two jobs.
A gypsy stew is normally mixture of stuff you might have in your kitchen as a peasant. A lot of times, it is a mixture of foods and spices you might not normally put together - like beans and pear. They also are less brothy and more chunky - I like chunky.
Anyhow, this is the second type of gypsy stew I make:
In the Pot:
Thoughts
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
Strew picture from blogstew.net
My Subject
I am 100% to blame for my super-hot boyfriend being unable to lose weight - although he is working on some rock hard biceps.
Hang on. I need a moment.
My guy is basically forced to deal with me cooking for him - joyfully, too. I mean, I'm not super-awesome cook or something, I'm sort of a sniff-and-dump cook. I dump some stuff together, sniff some seasonings and add based on my nose.
Although, I have been doing this as a way to feed myself since the 2000s. I do come from a long line of great home cooks.
Finding People
Sometime it is hard to get in there for others. I think this is because we are trained in the rhotic of helping others more than the function. Sometimes it feels like things would be easier if the victim got him/herself together so s/he could figure out how to direct the people who have no clue what to do.
Making it Work
Being there for others shouldn't completely drain you or bring you to a place you can't get up from - though sometimes you have to throw yourself on the fire for someone. Anyhow, I learned it is good to have a couple things on hand so when someone needs you, you don't have to scramble.
These items include:
- Booze.
Ok, there is more.
- Wine.
- Tea.
- Coffee.
- Hot cocoa.
- Muffin mix.
- Quick cookie recipe.
- Cheese.
- Blank cards.
- Soup recipe.
- Stuffed animal.
- Containers you don't ever expect to get back.
You might want to alter the list if you have a friend who love something or has some specific comfort food - like chocolate. I don't really keep chocolate around. I don't like it.
Cooking for Others
It is rare to find someone or to have a relationship with someone who is down and out or dealing with a tragedy who is able to say what is most needed - a laugh, company or a meal. As my friend said when she was a new-new Mom:
Melissa: You have no idea how much I just wanted someone to cook us a homecooked meal!I had no idea. So, when she was dealing with a hard week - I said I would made dinner and bring it over for her and her husband.
Cooking
I think cooking food it a good way to help families out - first, they don't have to worry about dishes or food to buy and ideally they have one or two healthy meals they just have to warm up. However, I'm also both vain and lazy, so, I figured out what I can make that is great and quick.
Chicken Soup
If you don't know how to make chicken soup, you need to learn. Here's how you do it:
- 1 chicken or whatever pieces of a chicken you have.
- Vegetables - Carrots, onion, celery, parsley.
- Pot.
- Parsley.
- Salt/pepper.
- Water.
Chop up the stuff and put it in the pot. Cover with water. Simmer for an hour or whatever. You can make a huge pot and freeze part of it for whenever the flu season strikes. Once you nail this recipe you can add or subtract things you like or don't like.
Gypsy Stew
 |
| Basically how it looks |
A gypsy stew is normally mixture of stuff you might have in your kitchen as a peasant. A lot of times, it is a mixture of foods and spices you might not normally put together - like beans and pear. They also are less brothy and more chunky - I like chunky.
Anyhow, this is the second type of gypsy stew I make:
- 2 15oz cans chickpeas or white beans, drained
- 3-4 carrots, thickly sliced (your call as how much you want)
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable stock (for thicker use less, for thinner use more)
- 1lb pumpkin or butternut squash (or a mix), peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 medium pears, peeled, cored and cut into chunks (can be underripe)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3-4 large garlic cloves – coarsely chopped (don’t dice)
- 2-3 medium ripe tomatoes, coarsely chopped so fluid can cook out
- Handful green beans, trimmed and cut up
- A couple handfuls of blanched almonds
- Sweet paprika (not smoked)
- Thyme.
- Olive Oil
- Salt/Pepper
- Fresh mint (garnish)
- Red wine vinegar (to taste/garnish)
You will need your Dutch oven, a skillet and a bowl.
In the Pot:
- Combine the chickpeas, carrots in your Dutch oven and cover with stock, bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the squash, green beans, pears and salt to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered until the vegetables have softened, about 15-20 minutes.
In the skillet (while pot is cooking):
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the almonds and garlic and cook until the almonds are golden brown. Transfer almonds/garlic to a bowl, leaving behind as much oil as possible in the skillet. Pace the garlic/almonds in a food processor or coffee grinder and grind until finely ground.
- Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the paprika to the onions and stir for a few seconds. (I threw in a LOT of paprika because it’s good).
- Add the tomatoes to the onions and a few tablespoons of the cooking liquid and cook until the tomatoes soften and reduce, about 7 minutes. It’s ok if the tomatoes have some chunk, you just want all that tomato juice to be swimming around.
In the Pot (bringing it all together):
- Gently stir the tomato mixture into the pot with the chickpeas – you want to maintain some tomato chunk.
- Add the ground almonds/garlic.
- Add thyme - you can never have too much.
- Continue cooking until all the vegetables are very soft and the pumpkin is almost falling apart, 5-7 minutes longer, adding more broth if the stew seems too thick.
- (Optional) Stir in the vinegar. Add a handful of almonds for some crunch.
- Taste for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper and/or vinegar if necessary.
- (Optional) Garnish with the mint and throw in some pear and almonds for texture.
Thoughts
This strew fed about seven people without too much trouble. You could stretch it out if you added more broth or another can of beans. Get some crusty bread and you got a winning combo. Overall, it is fairy cheap and filling.
You could add apple or any range of spices to change the flavor. You can also add meat (the picture, for example, has meat since it is a recipe from Andalusian Gypsy Stew that has pork).
It was nice to cook for my friends - they all enjoyed it, even the meat-eaters. I, however, did not eat it because I can't have beans.
Another exciting thing thing brought back was the "food container exchange" where me and my friend down the street trade a container, each filling it with some food we made. I think the next bit I give him back is going to be cookies, but, you never know.
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
Strew picture from blogstew.net
Feb 13, 2013
Lent is here, today being Ash Wednesday. Yesterday was Fat Tuesday also known as Mardi Gras or Fausnaught Day or Stove Tuesday which, if you didn't know, is the last hurrah before 40 days of reflection, self-sacrifice and normally giving something up, also known as Lent.
Lent is actually 46 days, but Catholics are bad at math so we call it 40 days.
The idea of Lent of it is to mimic the 40 days Jesus was in the desert alone with the Devil, who was being a jerk. Lent ends with Easter which celebrates Jesus' rise from the dead. It's a busy 40 days in the Catholic calendar.
I always give up something for lent but after not having something for 40 days, I don't tend to bring it back into my life. Hence, I don't really repeat stuff. (I normally mess up about 6 days in Lent so 40 works).
Here is the standard stuff I give up:
Last week, I learned the Catholic's definition of fasting is a lot different than mine. According to americancatholic.org:
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.
Lent is actually 46 days, but Catholics are bad at math so we call it 40 days.
The idea of Lent of it is to mimic the 40 days Jesus was in the desert alone with the Devil, who was being a jerk. Lent ends with Easter which celebrates Jesus' rise from the dead. It's a busy 40 days in the Catholic calendar.
I always give up something for lent but after not having something for 40 days, I don't tend to bring it back into my life. Hence, I don't really repeat stuff. (I normally mess up about 6 days in Lent so 40 works).
 |
| I like steak |
- Potato chips.
- Alcohol.
- Sweet treats, ice cream, etc.
- Meat on Wednesday and Friday.
- Soda.
In past years, I have given up more than 1 cup of coffee a day and even did a juice fast on Wednesdays and Fridays. I have tried to fast (as in not eat anything) Wednesday and Friday.
Fasting as explained by the U.S. bishops means partaking of only one full meal. Some food (not equaling another full meal) is permitted at breakfast and around midday or in the evening—depending on when a person chooses to eat the main or full meal.
Abstinence forbids the use of meat, but not of eggs, milk products or condiments made of animal fat.
Abstinence does not include meat juices and liquid foods made from meat. Thus, such foods as chicken broth, consomme, soups cooked or flavored with meat, meat gravies or sauces, as well as seasonings or condiments made from animal fat are not forbidden. So it is permissible to use margarine and lard. Even bacon drippings which contain little bits of meat may be poured over lettuce as seasoning.
I apparently was on ultra-catholic mode. I will dial that back, for sure.
Perspective
I don't "enjoy" Lent, by any means. I enjoy the debauchery celebration of Easter, though, which is only fun because of Lent. Oh, and because of Jesus.
I'm not a "good" Catholic - I am an argumentative one.
I'm not a "good" Catholic - I am an argumentative one.
Lent, to me, has always been a time of refection. I can't say I have stumbled in my faith - I believe in God and that has never been shaken but I have not always agreed with the Catholic church. I look at the Catholic like a good friend - I don't always agree but I respect and tolerate these differences and work through them in my own way.
I always held the traditions as much as possible for the comfort of knowing my family members who have long been gone have been through the same rituals and maybe even grappled with the same thoughts and issues.
Lent gives an additional piece of thought of because when you give up what you think is really hard, and then look at the world, you see how much your "necessities" are "luxuries." Giving up some of these "luxuries" and turning my attention back to taking care of those around me would probably earn a thumbs-up from Jesus.
Service to the community has often been something I toyed with rather than givig something up. My service related thing is named "Lucky." I think if I was ever going to be in service in anyway, it would have something to do with animals.
Anyhow, I always encourage my friends to take some time or days out to engage in this spirit of Lent - you don't have to even believe in God to spend some time in reflection.
I always held the traditions as much as possible for the comfort of knowing my family members who have long been gone have been through the same rituals and maybe even grappled with the same thoughts and issues.
Lent gives an additional piece of thought of because when you give up what you think is really hard, and then look at the world, you see how much your "necessities" are "luxuries." Giving up some of these "luxuries" and turning my attention back to taking care of those around me would probably earn a thumbs-up from Jesus.
 |
| Lucky |
Anyhow, I always encourage my friends to take some time or days out to engage in this spirit of Lent - you don't have to even believe in God to spend some time in reflection.
I do celebrate the spirit of Rosh Hashanah - which I think it a brilliant time to celebrate a New Year.
This Year
This year, I didn't come up with anything to really give up - other than the norm. I am going to try to get by with less. I'm going to take care of Lucky and those in my life. I think I might have to go back to my old stand by, which is staying a Rosary every night.
I need a Rosary. I tend to just use my fingers because, you know, kids can't have nice things.
I need a Rosary. I tend to just use my fingers because, you know, kids can't have nice things.
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.
Feb 11, 2013
People, you need to get a tailor.
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Women know how to find one if they are brides or bridesmaids because most dress shops hire a group of tailors (jack up the price) and herd everyone into this basement department in order to drain a good $100-$200 from each “special princess” morsel that stumbles into their store. Sometimes, these stores even convince these sparkly-eyed victims of the bridal industry they need more than one fitting to “get it right.”
If you can’t tell my feelings, here they are:
My Tailor
Having a tailor will expand your wardrobe and you dollar in beautiful ways.
I didn't go back to that tailor, nor did I ask for a refund or something. Being a tailor is an art and is filled with mistakes. They will happen. I just never went back.
The second tailor I visited is the one I use these days - the first time I went to her, I was on the cusp of getting sick. I had dropped from about 15lbs in about two months (red flag of poor heath? Naaa). My investment in expensive business suits brought with my hard-earned saved money as a retail worker and freelancer was crashing around me because I couldn't wear these suits. I had spent about $1,000 on corporate-appropriate suits as I engaged in a career in advertising.
$1,000 is nothing to sneeze at.
I brought my collection to our tailor and with a couple well placed pins and about 1 week later, I had custom built suits.
Finding Your Tailor
Make sure you communicate correctly with your tailor – tell him/her what you want. At the same time – LISTEN. A good tailor is a professional. Ask what can be done with an article of clothing and be aware of the risks and rewards.
Thinking
The fashion industry seems to be all about saying how we, as humans, need to fit the clothes. Here is the article of clothing, now you change your body to fit it.
I don’t have time for this.
Clothes work for us. Forget size, measurements and whatever. You can alter anything to fit you. And in the hands of a professional, it shouldn’t take three or four fittings – yes, even for a wedding dress.
Be Part of the Adventure
If you can’t tell my feelings, here they are:
- The wedding industry sucks.
- A good tailor can do magic in one session.
- A good tailor can be hard to find.
My Tailor
The first tailor I went to with pants that were too long butchered them and cut them off above the ankle. What I wanted, was a pair of pants I could wear with heels – after all, to me, your pants should not drag on the ground but you shouldn't, in general, see sock when you sit down. Some people sit and their pant leg is up mid-calf. Weird.
The second tailor I visited is the one I use these days - the first time I went to her, I was on the cusp of getting sick. I had dropped from about 15lbs in about two months (red flag of poor heath? Naaa). My investment in expensive business suits brought with my hard-earned saved money as a retail worker and freelancer was crashing around me because I couldn't wear these suits. I had spent about $1,000 on corporate-appropriate suits as I engaged in a career in advertising.
$1,000 is nothing to sneeze at.
I brought my collection to our tailor and with a couple well placed pins and about 1 week later, I had custom built suits.
Tailor: Amonda, I know you lose weight. An inch, tin pounds.My tailor is Russian, by the way. She has great stories, an awesome accent and lots of talent. I take my jeans to her to get rid of that booty gap taken care of.
Finding Your Tailor
Here is my simple list of advice for finding a tailor:
- Ask around: If someone has a chain of good experiences and maybe even gets the same stuff done that you want done, I would give that person a try.
- Avoid neon: I would suggest avoiding dry cleaning tailors for anything but light hems. Also, avoid department store tailors and, 100%, bridal store tailors. It’s not because they are bad all the time, just that they tend to cost more and be more mechanical. You want someone who’s bread-and-butter is this business.
- Consult: Go into a high-end boutique and ask if they recommend a tailor – the higher end the better the tailor because the store will not want a bad reputation.
- Specialize: Sometimes you can find a tailor that specializes in certain things, hit them up for this only. If you are a guy needing a suit tailored, go to a place that specializes in men’s tailoring not a tailor who specialize in dress making.
- Test: Start with something simple when trying out a tailor, then you can assess the work
It’s important to know your role when dealing with vendors.
Tailor: Amonda, if zou lose anymore veight, I channot help zou.Ask questions. List demands. Understand the feedback.
Thinking
Clothes work for us. Forget size, measurements and whatever. You can alter anything to fit you. And in the hands of a professional, it shouldn’t take three or four fittings – yes, even for a wedding dress.
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
Ad from travelingwithintheworld.ning.com
Kid from travelingwithintheworld.ning.com
Image Credit
Ad from travelingwithintheworld.ning.com
Kid from travelingwithintheworld.ning.com
Feb 8, 2013
I work for a company that feeds its people a lot. We are always having potlucks or some type of snacks – it’s probably life with a chance of cake every day in this place.
Weight-Work Connection
Sometimes I cry lucky tears over my beloved BBQ sauce knowing I shall never taste its tangy sweetness on my lips again. Parting is tangy sorrow. . .
Plastic forks and knives suck. SUCK. Have you ever tried cutting meat with a plastic fork? Have you ever been able to find the knife or did you ever try to cut through something with a plastic spoon because you were desperate?
And when the was the last time they all washed their hands? Right.
Efficiently
First, it’s a nice thing to do and it’s nice to see whole teams participating in baking and cooking. This is the second company I worked for that claims you will gain 15lbs when you start.
I lost 20lbs since I started here, but, that really is not related to the food availability here. I am somewhat fortunate I am a corporate trainer so I can be away from my desk and walking around in front of a class a couple weeks a month. I’m away from the foods and probably burning a couple more calories than those who have to stay at their desk all day.
I lost 20lbs since I started here, but, that really is not related to the food availability here. I am somewhat fortunate I am a corporate trainer so I can be away from my desk and walking around in front of a class a couple weeks a month. I’m away from the foods and probably burning a couple more calories than those who have to stay at their desk all day.
Work and Food Budget
Being fed at work means less money you have to spend feeding yourself. You can spend this money on things like rent and booze and shoes.
Having your own plate also helps with savaging. You should be aware at all times of any
- Big-wig meetings.
- Wedding showers.
- Pregnancy celebrations.
- Last days.
- First days.
If there is food left over, it is normally moved to some central location for us vultures. However, you want to load up before Sugar-Addicted Suzie can launch on the “Happy Retirm. . .” cake.
Weight-Work Connection
 |
| You're welcome |
I learned a couple ways to keep fit, trim and on the move while being exposed to mass quantities of food. In no way do I want to gain 15lbs by accident.
15lbs is equal to about $27.22 cents in pennies.
To keep this weight off, well, I was born lucky with the inability to properly exist after consuming canola oil or vinegar. That chops out a lot of foods people bring in or make.
Sometimes I cry lucky tears over my beloved BBQ sauce knowing I shall never taste its tangy sweetness on my lips again. Parting is tangy sorrow. . .
Next, I found investing in my own flatware and working the system with quiet efficiency works like a charm.
- Flatware: Peoplemake food for a large group, they rarely remember plates – or we have super cheap plates. Additionally, when leftovers are left in the community areas, there aren't often plates.
Wedding showers. - Quiet Efficiency: You want to hit up your buffet lines or heaps of leftovers quickly and efficiently in order to make the best choices. This is no time to putts around or dilly-dally waiting for someone else to get in there with plates. You want to get in and get out.
- Decent Manners: You want to make sure you don’t overdo it and take too much. You should be leaving some for the other children (and yet, be first in line because not everyone thinks that way) and you probably don’t want to gain 15lbs.
Acquisition of Flatware
 |
| Remains of my breakfast |
Shoot - I can't even properly spread cream cheese with a plastic fork.
I only have four of everything in my abode, ‘cept large plates, I have three because I broke one. I’m surprised everything has lasted this long, frankly.
Anyhow, I don’t want to bring in my stuff. Plus, you never want to bring in something to work you can’t leave behind or that would crush you if it broke. Lot of weird @#$% can do down in a work place.
Just buy yourself one of each for work. I ended up going to Home Goods and into their super-amazing-get-it-out-of-here sale aisle I found myself a salad plate that meets all my needs. Needs? Right. It’s square. I dislike round things.
 |
| Mm, veggies |
You could also get yourself one of those portion control plates. That’ll make you popular. You can also find other designs and what not - another type is found on preciseportions.com.
If you happen to not like people touching your stuff or hate germs or whatever, having your own flatware limits other people touching what you will eat off of. You know how sometimes they lick their fingers to separate the plates.
Efficiently
Once you have you own flatware (and yes, plates count as flatware) when you know someone has a potluck going down, you can grab your own plate and head on over. Get right in line there, get all the gooie, salty, meaty, deep-fried, chocolate-covered, rainbow-jimmied and bacon-wrapped excellence supplied by others in one fell swoop.
Sure, it’s nice to prove to everyone you are polite by lingering and chatting about how good everything looks. I like to say I’m hungry and I’m not ashamed to be the first in line.
Remember, in a wolf pack, the alpha male and female eat first. By having your own plate and utensils, you don’t have to spend time in the bottleneck like others. If someone comments that you are haughty for bringing your own plate, say the following:
Sure, it’s nice to prove to everyone you are polite by lingering and chatting about how good everything looks. I like to say I’m hungry and I’m not ashamed to be the first in line.
Remember, in a wolf pack, the alpha male and female eat first. By having your own plate and utensils, you don’t have to spend time in the bottleneck like others. If someone comments that you are haughty for bringing your own plate, say the following:
You limit looking stupid by dropping your food everywhere, too. A sturdy plate not only adds a touch of class in the corporate world, it won’t bend under a sauce or buckle if Loud Larry backhands your plate while telling one of his classic so-not-funny joke.
Final Thoughts
 |
| Buffet face |
Hello friend, I just want to preserve a world free of trash and do my part to prevent the imminent apocalypse for the little children. Sure, no one is going to call me a hero, but, but, you know I’m all about trying to make the world a better place. Especially for the dolphins and koalas. But, hey, how does it feel to be contributing to the estimated 970,000 tons of paper plates being thrown away every year? Let’s talk about that.
You limit looking stupid by dropping your food everywhere, too. A sturdy plate not only adds a touch of class in the corporate world, it won’t bend under a sauce or buckle if Loud Larry backhands your plate while telling one of his classic so-not-funny joke.
Final Thoughts
Being fed is pretty cool. However, you are going to want to make sure you bring in your own fair share of food or else people will not invite you to the buffet line or give you the all important heads-up when there is unexplained public food.
Bring in some donuts or chocolate. This keeps the masses happy.
My spirit animal is the flying fox – a bat – and bats know it’s important to do their part for the colony. It’s called reciprocal altruism.
Be Part of the Adventure
Bring in some donuts or chocolate. This keeps the masses happy.
My spirit animal is the flying fox – a bat – and bats know it’s important to do their part for the colony. It’s called reciprocal altruism.
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 CreditPennies from Wiki
Feb 6, 2013
Mission Level
Success!
I’m Cheap
I'm pretty cheap, unless I know I am paying for quality. I do love earning money, saving it and then buying stuff I need and want. I am not one of those girls who ever spent all day shopping, I'm very target (not the store) orientated.
Now, I have friends who have two or three closets full of clothes and get a buzz out of it. Beyond that, they love the outlets - there are a couple around. I think depending on how far you travel, making outlet shopping an all day thing would be a good idea.
Welcome to All I Don't Know
I am not a brand-centric person. A consumer, yes, but brand loyalty? Crash and burn! I can be bought by the highest quality for the lowest price and I enjoy nothing more than watching the great tumble.
That’s not entirely true. I think it’s important to be on the look out for yourself when it comes to where you spend your money. You have the money, you have the power. Don’t hand it all away on some name if it’s not the best possible thing you can get or it bring you twice as much joy as it cost.
The Outlets
My destination was the Philadelphia Premium Outlets. Lots of brands. Lots of stuff I am not sure how to value. The area is mostly an outdoor shopping circle, not a mall. Picking a day when the temperatures were waving at the negative range and snow started to fall.
I bought a sweet skirt here on a whim in the summer and I really like it - I even found this awesome picture of it. I wear it with a simple sweater and some tights since it's a little short sometimes.
Ann Taylor
A friend told me I could find some nice stuff here. My Amazon wish list has a couple nice looking dresses for work from here, so, I figured the outlet might offer me some idea on how the store sizes things and maybe a couple pieces.
I’m not emotionally ready for Ann Taylor. I tried to force interest in a dress, but, it was super thick material, a somewhat awkward green and the embroidered design on it were two triangles, with the largest size highlighting the widest part of the hip area.
Final Thoughts
Now, I will be going back there, for sure. I think I also didn’t want to linger too long because this was not something my boyfriend was enjoying as far as an afternoon activity. He’s great, but, I know when not to push my luck with people. I really liked having him along but I didn’t want to spend hours there searching and hunting for items.
However, with my Mom. We’re going to own that place.
Outlets. Who would have thought! Actual good stuff, nice stores and really reduced prices.
Success!
I’m Cheap
I'm pretty cheap, unless I know I am paying for quality. I do love earning money, saving it and then buying stuff I need and want. I am not one of those girls who ever spent all day shopping, I'm very target (not the store) orientated.
Now, I have friends who have two or three closets full of clothes and get a buzz out of it. Beyond that, they love the outlets - there are a couple around. I think depending on how far you travel, making outlet shopping an all day thing would be a good idea.
Good thing I got friends all over the place and getting to some outlets is not that hard
Welcome to All I Don't Know
I am not a brand-centric person. A consumer, yes, but brand loyalty? Crash and burn! I can be bought by the highest quality for the lowest price and I enjoy nothing more than watching the great tumble.
 |
| Master of Fashion! |
That’s not entirely true. I think it’s important to be on the look out for yourself when it comes to where you spend your money. You have the money, you have the power. Don’t hand it all away on some name if it’s not the best possible thing you can get or it bring you twice as much joy as it cost.
For example, my Visconti pen is worth every penny and when I get around to squiring my Conklin, it’ll be worth it.
Ok, I have one brand I am fairly loyal to - Lucky Brand. Sure, jack your prices up, I have jeans from the early 2000 that are just as fantastic as when I first got them. I was told this is strange to own jeans for so long.
Ok, I have one brand I am fairly loyal to - Lucky Brand. Sure, jack your prices up, I have jeans from the early 2000 that are just as fantastic as when I first got them. I was told this is strange to own jeans for so long.
Plus, the people they hire at the retail level are super, 100% of the time.
The Outlets
My destination was the Philadelphia Premium Outlets. Lots of brands. Lots of stuff I am not sure how to value. The area is mostly an outdoor shopping circle, not a mall. Picking a day when the temperatures were waving at the negative range and snow started to fall.
I went shopping needing some warm clothes for work and keeping warm. A dress or two would be nice as I have another challenge coming up that has to do with them. Suspense!
I didn't have a plan. I was just super happy Lucky Brand had a story there. Even if I could get the normally priced $150 pair of jeans for $100 I would be happy. I really like the Charlie Flare cut I got last year for my birthday.
The Trip
The Trip
Can we just take a moment to again address my super-hot boyfriend who came with me to the outlets? Seriously, of his own free will. I would never force a guy to come shopping with me. Love his company, of course.
The Hunt
I’m target oriented. I know companies spend millions of dollars on top marking people who carefully arrange displays to attract my attention, blast “I need to get rid of my money” music and carefully choose the best fashions to display.
The Hunt
I’m target oriented. I know companies spend millions of dollars on top marking people who carefully arrange displays to attract my attention, blast “I need to get rid of my money” music and carefully choose the best fashions to display.
This is why I spend 60 second tops in a store. If nothing catches my eye, I move on.
I went through about 8 stores in an hour leaving MacGyver stunned at my efficiency.
Lucky Brand
I was happy to see that the Lucky Brand Outlet was just a neat and charming as the normal retail store. However, they did not have the Charlie Flare jeans I wanted. I tried on the Charlie Straight (the lady said I would look great in them) but I am not into carrot –leg looks.
Lucky Brand
I was happy to see that the Lucky Brand Outlet was just a neat and charming as the normal retail store. However, they did not have the Charlie Flare jeans I wanted. I tried on the Charlie Straight (the lady said I would look great in them) but I am not into carrot –leg looks.
Honestly, no one looks good when your pants or jeans tapper. It makes your ankles look skinny and the rest of you looks huge. Stop. STOP!
I did buy two tops – for the price of one at normal retail. I have some remorse for the second top I got because I’m not sure I can pull it off. I’m going to make it work.
Verizon
I really want a new cell phone case. I want the one I have, sort of a white argyle pattern. I go into the store and ask – “We have pink.”
Yeah, we’re done here.
I did buy two tops – for the price of one at normal retail. I have some remorse for the second top I got because I’m not sure I can pull it off. I’m going to make it work.
Verizon
I really want a new cell phone case. I want the one I have, sort of a white argyle pattern. I go into the store and ask – “We have pink.”
Yeah, we’re done here.
“I mean, we could order it for you.”
Yeah, I have Amazon dot com. It doesn't suggest I get something in pink.
Steve Madden
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This is my shoe store of choice for pumps - Steve Madden. I love a nice pump in some bright colors. I prefer the suede look rather than matte or shinny, but, I could be convinced. They did not have the color I have been looking for, so, that was out.
Steve Madden
.jpg)
I'm not into platform pumps, by the way. It's a wear look to me. I know the peep-toed, platform boot is all the rage. I still think it looks funny.
The nice sales rep was nice enough to put down the customer service number for me to call to see where the shoes are. I did not have the heart to tell her “Amazon dot com.”
Forever21
Forever21
I bought a sweet skirt here on a whim in the summer and I really like it - I even found this awesome picture of it. I wear it with a simple sweater and some tights since it's a little short sometimes.
Some of my friends really dig this store, but, it’s got too much see-through stuff.. I recently found out my favorite t-shirts are at H&M when I use to avoid that store like the plague.
So, I give Forever21 a shot when I can to see if I can find another, well, find.
Ann Taylor
A friend told me I could find some nice stuff here. My Amazon wish list has a couple nice looking dresses for work from here, so, I figured the outlet might offer me some idea on how the store sizes things and maybe a couple pieces.
I’m not emotionally ready for Ann Taylor. I tried to force interest in a dress, but, it was super thick material, a somewhat awkward green and the embroidered design on it were two triangles, with the largest size highlighting the widest part of the hip area.
I don’t have much of a need to accent my child-bearing hips, so, I passed.
New York & Company
I don’t know why I go into this store but I know why I use to. Talk about a downward spiral. I use to get a lot of staples here – great sweaters and pants and shirts - I could never leave New York & Company without something. Every time I go into one of the stores it looks as if a pack of 5-year-olds have trashed the place and to compensate, all the racks are double-jammed with items. Urg.
The sizing is also always off. I am not a “small” but I need to get “XS” at this store. I know their “Size 10” is not a real size 10. It’s great if you want an ego boost that is related to the size of your clothes, otherwise, it sucks.
The store is also packed by color, so, you have a bank of ROY G BIV (red, orange, yellow, green blue, indigo and violet) across the store. This is great if you don’t care what you get as long as it is a certain color. I don’t shop this way – except for shoes.
Also, they now have horrible fashion stuff. I want a normal sweater. Not a sweater with some cheap sequence attached.
As a side note, I have notices when NY&C has mannequins up, I want to buy the stuff it is wearing. Only problem, you can never find even one of those items.Needless to say, the outlet version left my inner child weeping and my cardio up.
Yankee Candle
I normally get my candles from Home Goods rather than directly from Yankee Candle because they are super cheap. Sure, you have to hunt a little, but, everything is in one spot. This store is a little small. When my super-hot boyfriend walked in, he basically almost died from the wall of smell.
I lasted only a second longer to prove I’m a woman.
New York & Company
I don’t know why I go into this store but I know why I use to. Talk about a downward spiral. I use to get a lot of staples here – great sweaters and pants and shirts - I could never leave New York & Company without something. Every time I go into one of the stores it looks as if a pack of 5-year-olds have trashed the place and to compensate, all the racks are double-jammed with items. Urg.The sizing is also always off. I am not a “small” but I need to get “XS” at this store. I know their “Size 10” is not a real size 10. It’s great if you want an ego boost that is related to the size of your clothes, otherwise, it sucks.
The store is also packed by color, so, you have a bank of ROY G BIV (red, orange, yellow, green blue, indigo and violet) across the store. This is great if you don’t care what you get as long as it is a certain color. I don’t shop this way – except for shoes.
Also, they now have horrible fashion stuff. I want a normal sweater. Not a sweater with some cheap sequence attached.
As a side note, I have notices when NY&C has mannequins up, I want to buy the stuff it is wearing. Only problem, you can never find even one of those items.Needless to say, the outlet version left my inner child weeping and my cardio up.
Yankee Candle
I normally get my candles from Home Goods rather than directly from Yankee Candle because they are super cheap. Sure, you have to hunt a little, but, everything is in one spot. This store is a little small. When my super-hot boyfriend walked in, he basically almost died from the wall of smell. I lasted only a second longer to prove I’m a woman.
Final Thoughts
Yep, that my friends is how I shop.
Now, I will be going back there, for sure. I think I also didn’t want to linger too long because this was not something my boyfriend was enjoying as far as an afternoon activity. He’s great, but, I know when not to push my luck with people. I really liked having him along but I didn’t want to spend hours there searching and hunting for items.
However, with my Mom. We’re going to own that place.
Outlets. Who would have thought! Actual good stuff, nice stores and really reduced prices.
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
Feb 4, 2013
Everyone has different ways that they operate in the world. Because I am vain and have a blog, I figured I would start writing some posts that cover what I think makes life easier or maybe some off-the-wall things I do that I might as well document here because when I mention them to people in conversation they look at me weird.
Also, this will help give me some postings when I can't actually be doing thing that, you know, cost money. Oddly enough, me writing (and talking too much) rarely cost money.
Besides, I find other people's ideas and way they conduct business in the world helpful. Maybe I'll be helpful.
Why?
This whole concept was birthed when I found that the pitiful skills I have obtained over my 32 documented years in existence were actually helpful to someone else – like, I know a lot about poop. Output, people. Your output is important and can tell you many, many valuable things about your health and position in the universe.
Custom Desktop
For my first entry, I am going to just explain how I class up my workspace with a custom background.
I like decorating up my desktop with a nice background (wallpaper, monitor background, thingy). Now, I have photos of my friends and family around my desk at work but I spend most of my time staring at my computer. So, why not put some pictures there.
Not really a groundbreaking thought, lots of people have a picture up of friends, family or pets. I just, don’t want to stare at one photo all day. That bothers my need for visual interest. Besides, I have more than one interest when it comes to my friends, family and pets.
This is what I created as my desktop background:
Ever since I put this up and had some visitors and did some Webexs, people have pointed out that they like the idea of being able to customize a desktop with more than just one picture.
How To
To create this, all you really need is a simple program like PowerPoint. I don’t have a lot of fancy stuff where I work because I don’t need it, I tend to have to use PowerPoint if I am going to create something. It doesn’t work too bad, you have a lot of options and you can always “Save As” a jpeg. Plus, keeping the ppt means I can go in and change out pictures and items as I want.
I'm sure someone out there is a wiz in Photoshop and can do a lot better than me.
First, I found a background image I liked – that was from pptbackgrounds.net. I like sticking to a desk theme. And I do like notepads and coffee.
Then I found the some pictures - one from my brother’s wedding, my hot boyfriend and one of, you know, the cat being a ham. I applied a “Drop Shadow Rectangle” from the Picture Tools option and a little black boarder to add some style.
I also added a little text message from my boyfriend, a funny logo from redbubble.com (they have fun t-shirts) and, of course, a master detective badge from Mystery Case Files.
The Point
The point, right. Well, some people really like this concept of making a custom desktop. Give it a try. I think you could do something that looks more scrapbook-like or even something that has a olde world feel. You can create a virtual shadowbox of an event or vacation – you are limited only by your imagination.
Also, this will help give me some postings when I can't actually be doing thing that, you know, cost money. Oddly enough, me writing (and talking too much) rarely cost money.
Besides, I find other people's ideas and way they conduct business in the world helpful. Maybe I'll be helpful.
Why?
This whole concept was birthed when I found that the pitiful skills I have obtained over my 32 documented years in existence were actually helpful to someone else – like, I know a lot about poop. Output, people. Your output is important and can tell you many, many valuable things about your health and position in the universe.
Custom Desktop
For my first entry, I am going to just explain how I class up my workspace with a custom background.
I like decorating up my desktop with a nice background (wallpaper, monitor background, thingy). Now, I have photos of my friends and family around my desk at work but I spend most of my time staring at my computer. So, why not put some pictures there.
Not really a groundbreaking thought, lots of people have a picture up of friends, family or pets. I just, don’t want to stare at one photo all day. That bothers my need for visual interest. Besides, I have more than one interest when it comes to my friends, family and pets.
This is what I created as my desktop background:
 |
| Identities have been delicately protected |
How To
To create this, all you really need is a simple program like PowerPoint. I don’t have a lot of fancy stuff where I work because I don’t need it, I tend to have to use PowerPoint if I am going to create something. It doesn’t work too bad, you have a lot of options and you can always “Save As” a jpeg. Plus, keeping the ppt means I can go in and change out pictures and items as I want.
I'm sure someone out there is a wiz in Photoshop and can do a lot better than me.
First, I found a background image I liked – that was from pptbackgrounds.net. I like sticking to a desk theme. And I do like notepads and coffee.
Then I found the some pictures - one from my brother’s wedding, my hot boyfriend and one of, you know, the cat being a ham. I applied a “Drop Shadow Rectangle” from the Picture Tools option and a little black boarder to add some style.
I also added a little text message from my boyfriend, a funny logo from redbubble.com (they have fun t-shirts) and, of course, a master detective badge from Mystery Case Files.
The Point
The point, right. Well, some people really like this concept of making a custom desktop. Give it a try. I think you could do something that looks more scrapbook-like or even something that has a olde world feel. You can create a virtual shadowbox of an event or vacation – you are limited only by your imagination.
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.
Feb 1, 2013
Mission Level
Success! And ongoing.
Most people seem to want to volunteer, at least, I always did. I think one of the most valuable things you can give someone is your time. You can always save a couple bucks to give to some charity or attend a function or buy a product where a portion is donated – but to give your time. . .
Money comes and goes. Words are pretty airy.
You are only given a very specific and measured amount of time.
Time is huge.
You can do a lot with time.
My Pre-Volunteering Life
I grew up in a pretty charitable house. Even today, once a month my Mom buys baby food and delivers it to Catholic Services for their food pantry.
We always got our Christmas wreaths from the Boy Scouts (and later our Christmas trees).
Giving
I won't go as far as to say "giving back" because I don't think I am paying someone or something back. I think giving is just giving. I'm not paying forward or back or karma. It's about just helping out because you can and not expecting anything back.
As a friend once told me, ". . .it's a giant waste of time or money." Ha. Basically At least you are doing something to improve the world. Sometimes things have to come from your own heart entirely.
As a child, I rode at a stable called Thorncroft that mixed people in therapy (emotional, mentally or physically handicapped) and participated in a study which showed how riding a horse stimulates the same muscles as walking and does a whole other bunch of good stuff.
I even participated in a “Adopt-a-Highway” program through my job.
First Steps – What to Do?
I hemmed and hawed about what I was going to do for quite some time – mentoring kids, stocking food banks. Soup kitchens.
I think there are three things you need to figure out when volunteering.
Time
You are going to have to figure out how much time you actually have to donate. Remember, even as a volunteer you need to be true to your word, show up when you are asked to and do the best job you can.
I find a lot of people who say they can do something often do not honor their commitments. This includes the famous, “I will totally help out. I’ll be in touch!” Which ends up to mean, “I never wanted to do anything and have no intention of following-up.”
You don’t get paid to volunteer and it is work (even if it’s fun). It can suck up an otherwise lazy Saturday or a busy Monday night. Know the amount of time you can donate and pretend it is your job. People will rely on you when you say you can do something – they will get hopeful. Don’t lie and crush their spirits.
If all you can do is an hour every month, show up for that hour and month. If you can do three times a week, show up three times a week. If you find you want to do more or have to do less, make arrangements and be transparent about why.
Anything is better than just not showing up.
Skills
A lot of places look for people with certain skills or abilities. Maybe you are an accountant or a lawyer or even a carpenter. These are pretty useful skills to non-profits or small places with all volunteer staffs.
You might have skills. My skills include:
Finding a Place
There are a lot of big groups you can look up like the Salvation Army, Big Brothers Big Sisters or even a place like Volunteer Match which covers a lot of different groups. You can even find places that you can travel while doing a good thing (if you have the funds to do this, don’t ever expect a volunteer operation to give you something – other than the feeling you get from helping out).
Religious groups like a local church is another awesome place to go to get in some grassroots volunteering since they often work very close to the community. You don’t have to be religious or a member to participate. Remember, you don’t have to subscribe to a spiritual path to drop off a casserole once a month to feed the hungry.
What I Did
I fell into my volunteering situation. I had wanted to do something through the church because they have a lot of sturdy programs, but, I shied away because it can cause me a lot of anxiety to meet new people and stuff.
Here’s the story: I went to adopt a cat. The cat was already adopted. I got another cat. I got on the adoption email list. They emailed they needed help at the kennels. I cleaned cages in the store where the most adoptable cats go bi-monthly for three months. Then I learned they needed help in their shelter where sick/weird or recovering cats are. I now clean little boxes of poop there for 20-30 cats.
In the process, I went through three Feline Leukemia positive cats – fostering them in my own house. But, more on fostering later.
So, now I am a volunteer cat woman.
Future Plans
Finding something you like – even something you aren't good at but can learn – is a great way to give back. I’m not great with kids or people. I don’t want to go into a big city or be part of a huge committee. I just want to do my thing, get my hands dirty and go home. I enjoy the interaction with the cats.
After all, in the beginning, God gave man dominion over the animals. This means we are suppose to protect and take care of them. So, I am doing my little part.
Also, it totally breaks up my week. It’s something different to do and I have met some people I otherwise would never have known.
Success! And ongoing.
Most people seem to want to volunteer, at least, I always did. I think one of the most valuable things you can give someone is your time. You can always save a couple bucks to give to some charity or attend a function or buy a product where a portion is donated – but to give your time. . .
Money comes and goes. Words are pretty airy.
You are only given a very specific and measured amount of time.
Time is huge.
You can do a lot with time.
My Pre-Volunteering Life
I grew up in a pretty charitable house. Even today, once a month my Mom buys baby food and delivers it to Catholic Services for their food pantry.
We always got our Christmas wreaths from the Boy Scouts (and later our Christmas trees).
Giving
I won't go as far as to say "giving back" because I don't think I am paying someone or something back. I think giving is just giving. I'm not paying forward or back or karma. It's about just helping out because you can and not expecting anything back.
 |
| Adopt-a-highway |
As a friend once told me, ". . .it's a giant waste of time or money." Ha. Basically At least you are doing something to improve the world. Sometimes things have to come from your own heart entirely.
As a child, I rode at a stable called Thorncroft that mixed people in therapy (emotional, mentally or physically handicapped) and participated in a study which showed how riding a horse stimulates the same muscles as walking and does a whole other bunch of good stuff.
I even participated in a “Adopt-a-Highway” program through my job.
First Steps – What to Do?
I hemmed and hawed about what I was going to do for quite some time – mentoring kids, stocking food banks. Soup kitchens.
I think there are three things you need to figure out when volunteering.
- What skill someone else could use that you have.
- How much actual time you have.
- Where to go to participate in something.
Time
You are going to have to figure out how much time you actually have to donate. Remember, even as a volunteer you need to be true to your word, show up when you are asked to and do the best job you can.
I find a lot of people who say they can do something often do not honor their commitments. This includes the famous, “I will totally help out. I’ll be in touch!” Which ends up to mean, “I never wanted to do anything and have no intention of following-up.”
You don’t get paid to volunteer and it is work (even if it’s fun). It can suck up an otherwise lazy Saturday or a busy Monday night. Know the amount of time you can donate and pretend it is your job. People will rely on you when you say you can do something – they will get hopeful. Don’t lie and crush their spirits.
If all you can do is an hour every month, show up for that hour and month. If you can do three times a week, show up three times a week. If you find you want to do more or have to do less, make arrangements and be transparent about why.
Anything is better than just not showing up.
Skills
A lot of places look for people with certain skills or abilities. Maybe you are an accountant or a lawyer or even a carpenter. These are pretty useful skills to non-profits or small places with all volunteer staffs.
You might have skills. My skills include:
- Archery.
- Falling down.
- Napping.
- Uno.
- Driving (Check out Beverly Foundation).
- Cooking (Check out Cooking Matters)
- Digging (Check out UB Archaeologist).
- Shopping (Check out the YMCA).
Finding a Place
There are a lot of big groups you can look up like the Salvation Army, Big Brothers Big Sisters or even a place like Volunteer Match which covers a lot of different groups. You can even find places that you can travel while doing a good thing (if you have the funds to do this, don’t ever expect a volunteer operation to give you something – other than the feeling you get from helping out).
Religious groups like a local church is another awesome place to go to get in some grassroots volunteering since they often work very close to the community. You don’t have to be religious or a member to participate. Remember, you don’t have to subscribe to a spiritual path to drop off a casserole once a month to feed the hungry.
What I Did
 |
| Cuddle ambush |
Here’s the story: I went to adopt a cat. The cat was already adopted. I got another cat. I got on the adoption email list. They emailed they needed help at the kennels. I cleaned cages in the store where the most adoptable cats go bi-monthly for three months. Then I learned they needed help in their shelter where sick/weird or recovering cats are. I now clean little boxes of poop there for 20-30 cats.
In the process, I went through three Feline Leukemia positive cats – fostering them in my own house. But, more on fostering later.
So, now I am a volunteer cat woman.
Future Plans
Finding something you like – even something you aren't good at but can learn – is a great way to give back. I’m not great with kids or people. I don’t want to go into a big city or be part of a huge committee. I just want to do my thing, get my hands dirty and go home. I enjoy the interaction with the cats.
After all, in the beginning, God gave man dominion over the animals. This means we are suppose to protect and take care of them. So, I am doing my little part.
Also, it totally breaks up my week. It’s something different to do and I have met some people I otherwise would never have known.
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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