Happy New Year !

I Dig This

Happy New Year Ya'll !  

In the spirit of "putting it out there" I'm going to throw a few things out.  This past year has certainly had its ups and downs but I hope that the coming year is a lot kinder in many ways.  

May we all have more money in our pockets without having to work more.  Lower those taxes and bills I say!  May we all have more time with family and friends, because that stuff is important.  May we all be healthy and energized by all the beauty that surrounds us.  

May we all have more adventures and creative challenges.  May we all have a safe haven to return to at the end of the day and good food in our belly.  May we all have a tribe of friends who will stick with you no matter what.  May we all have a special person in our lives that keep us anchored down and wipe away the tears when we fall apart.  May we all have that special person to love and cherish in the days and years to come. 

May we all be blessed with fun travel adventure and silly selfies.  May we all be blessed with kind people and communities coming together so their voices can be heard and make positive changes in our world.  May we all be blessed with doggie kisses and kitty purrs.  May we all be blessed with faith and comfort that all will be well when we are disheartened and lost.  May all be blessed with all good things and have a most prosperous, happy year filled with lots of love, hugs and laughter.  Because you just can't put a price tag on that shit.  I hope we all channel what we want to come into our lives and let it bloom and grow.  Don't you?  

Until next time...Happy New Year!  elizinashe

Cheers!

Post Holiday Cheers

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas ya'll !  Two days late that is....

I must say I was quite blessed with the little things this year, which always makes me happy.  I received a couple of unexpected treasures from my neighbors, one of which included the most delicious ginger cookies I've ever had.  Mmm...

I wish I could say that my nights prior to Christmas was just as delightful but alas they were quite the opposite.  In fact, they were quite distressing.  I wish I could just block some of the aftermath out of my head, as it has been bothering me but I guess that's a part of the process.  I'm just glad that I have an awesome work family.  

Maybe all the little surprises and treasures prior to Christmas was to remind me of all the wonderful little things that come into my life and that I should focus on that as opposed to the negative.  I'm still working on that part.

I will say my mother, being the crafty person that she is, found an awesome handmade vase that some local artist made.  And of course, she found it at one of her many thrift/consignment shops that she likes to haunt.  It's really groovy.  Now I want to paint the wall that sits behind it so it will really "pop out" while it sits on top of my cabinet.  Guess I have a new project ahead of me, eh?  

Isn't it Cool?

In the end, my Christmas day was quite peaceful.  I managed to stay in some normal "day time" clothes for about three hours and then it was time for the comfy oversized sweatshirt.  Which was what I should have put on in the first place.  Haha... After opening the said gifts, I had a nice plate of leftovers from my new favorite crock pot dish paired a most refreshing Pinot Grigio, cookies from my neighbor and a nice long nap with my kitty lying on top of me.  I guess you can't get any better than that.  

In the meantime, enjoy the little things and may the New Year bring you many blessings and happy adventures.  See next time....elizinashe 

Happy New Year!

Goodbye 2016

What Happened to You 2016?

This past year has been one helluva ride.  I've never seen such a horrible, ugly year in my life.  And yet, 2016 had such promise....what a let down.  But instead of talking about what a hateful, violent and mean spirited year that 2016 brought, I'd rather focus on the good things.  

This past year certainly had it's ups and downs for me both personally and financially.  But I choose to celebrate all things good that did happen for me in my little corner of the world.  

New Year's Day weekend started off with dear friends coming to visit with their son.  New Year's Day night, if that makes sense, was spent at a local restaurant where I ordered the typical southern black eyed peas & ham with collard greens for "good luck".  Good stuff folks!  And my time with my friends was special and refreshing.  Couldn't think of a better way to begin my New Year. 

I have been to a couple of gatherings with co-workers, had a picnic at the Biltmore Estate,  three cookouts, a few dinners with my neighbor, a Dave Matthews Band concert with my girl friends, a trip out to the DC area to visit yet another pair of dear friends, went to two symphonies, created a silly birthday card for a co-worker for her birthday while we were all at work, found a new "go to" fave in the crock pot, took lots of silly pictures and got some painting done in the house before a big project arrives.  Sounds like a lot, eh?  But there were many, many nights where my butt was parked on the couch too.  Nothing wrong with that. 

Today has been cool, rainy and lazy.  I've spent the day getting Christmas packages ready to mail, finished up some Christmas cards, made the said new "go to" in the crock pot, spontaneously had my neighbor over for dinner and made some spinach dip for a girly thing tomorrow.  It was a perfect day to do so and I've  enjoyed every moment of it.  It's the little things, no?  

So instead of "building walls" to keep out the riff-raff and close off borders,  I chose to build shelves.  I want more shelves in my life so I may fill them up with all the little things that make me happy and color my world.  I want my shelves to be over flowing with the nic-nacks of life that remind me of happier times and good friends.  Forget a wall...it does nothing but block out the light.  Why would you want that?  That's not living happy, and I chose to live happy if not happier.  Don't you?  

So Goodbye 2016...you sure were a doozy and I am so ready for you to be over.  I hope 2017 brings  more fun times and dear people into my world despite what the world brings.  It's the little things is it not?  Until next time....elizinashe

What Do You Want On Your Shelf? 

You've Come a Long Way Baby

I've Always Loved This One

My mom gave me yet another box of stuff that I had squirreled away at her place many years ago when I moved into a tiny studio apartment while I was "rebooting" my life and could not take all of my belongings that I had in my previous two bedroom digs.  

It was mostly stupid stuff that I really don't need, but what I did find was a simple reminder of how far I have come on my journey in moving to an area that I had always wanted to live and begin anew.  

I found an old check registry that I had when I paid off my final bills in Arkansas and moved to Asheville with very little cash in the bank.  My two bedroom apartment in Arkansas was only $365 a month. What a dream...My first one bedroom apartment in Asheville was $530 a month.  That's quite a hike in cost of living, but I had expected that and had already prepared for the increase.   After paying deposits and rent along with food, hooking up the electric and a phone in my new digs, I had $3300 to my name.  No job, one apartment and two cats.  I knew two people in town and that's it.  What was I thinking? 

Looking back now, I don't know how I really did it.  Now that I am older, I realize that you really do need quite a bit of cash when it comes to moving.  Especially if you're moving across the state.  Nine hundred fifty plus miles to be exact.  It was two days of driving, with two cats in their carriers.  There were lots of cigarettes and music in the car and caffeine.  Can't forget the caffeine.  

I had a lot of naivete back then and a whole lot of Faith.  I was absolutely clueless as to what it really took to make such a big move and take such a big risk, but I did it.  And I am so glad I took that leap of Faith.  It was one of the hardest and scariest things I have ever done independently but it was also the best thing I have ever done for myself.  I'm a lot older and wiser these days.  I still have a bit of that naivete I guess, but I'm a lot better at it.  

So when it doubt folks, listen to your heart and take the leap.  You might end up on a bumpy road for a while, but in the end, you just might be glad you took that first step.  Until next time....elizinashe

Who's Ready for a Walk?

Make America Heal Again

Love Thy Neighbor...

This past week has just been horrible.  Flat out horrible.  The Election results were quite shocking to say the least.  And for many devastating.  Maybe the system is rigged after all.  

I can't think of any Election that produced so many protests after the results came in.  Seriously...people all across our country took to the streets marching in solidarity against Trump being our newly elected President. Shouts of "Not my President" became a common chant.  Now that really says something to me.  There were a lot of people who were upset when Obama was elected, but I don't recall people coming out in masses in protest because he was the elected leader of our country.  Wonder what Washington thinks about that.  And those who did support Trump...wonder if they have put any thought into what may come to pass.  

This whole year has been pretty horrible if you think about it.  I have never seen so much hate and violence across our Nation~ I just don't get it.  You really can't place blame on one single person or candidate.  That's just not fair.  Americans are angry and disgruntled.  I get that.  But I do believe that the media, reality television and narrow minded politicians helped fuel that fire which did nothing but create and promote more hate and violence.  It just makes my heart very, very sad...clearly we haven't moved very far from the Civil Rights Movement.  Or so it seems.  

There is so much more I want to say...but it's all just too much.  Our mountains are on fire and there is not any rain in the foreseeable future.  We have a dear friend who is very sick and one of my co-workers unexpectedly lost his son Saturday morning while he was on his way to work.   I just can't take much more ya'll.  

What I can do is support causes that promote love and acceptance.  What I can do is pray for healing and strength.  What I can do is be a good role model for others.  What I can't do is tolerate continued hate and violence that has infected the minds of our citizens. I want to move forward, not backward.  

America is already great.  What we need to is Heal our country.  I think we can all agree on that one.  Until next time...elizinashe

Peace and Love Ya'll !

Life Will Go On...

Celebrate Life Ya'll...

It's Election Night.  And it's looking quite scary.  I am shocked and amazed that so many people have supported a candidate that has done nothing but instill hate and fear into the minds of our peoples.  Clearly we have not moved very far in our acceptance of those who are different from our own.  

We, meaning my mother and I, have a very dear friend who is very sick.  She just had major surgery last week, and has now been discharged from the hospital and transferred to a nursing home for a short term rehab.  I hope and pray that she will be able to return home to live out her days, as she really doesn't have much longer to live in this life.  And I've been upset about it most of the night.  It's finally hit me and I've been crying off and on for most of the night.  My heart just breaks for her and my mother is just devastated.  This is simply "the pits" as our friend would say.  I am more than sad and I'm not sure how to deal with this or be supportive.  All I can do is send love. 

Regardless of the outcome of this Election and our friend's recovery, life goes on.  It will take much healing and many tears.  I have no fear of what our friend's next adventure will be when she leaves this world.  I know she will go on to a fantastic place and be a blessing to all in encounter her.  I just hate that her journey had to take such a horrible route.  As for the Election....I'm afraid it's going to take a miracle to get things straight.  And that's for either candidate.  One will be more than detrimental, the other will be a constant battle with little change.  How did our country become so hateful?  But life will go on...for better or worse.  I vote for the better.  

Sending peace and love...elizinashe.  

More Love, Less Hate

Life, Death and Singlehood...

Nothing Gold Can Stay~ Robert Frost

One of my mother's friend's is sick.  She has been officially diagnosed with Uterine Cancer.  And it looks like it has begun to spread a bit.  She is scheduled for surgery soon, and then the radiation and chemotherapy will come into play at some point.  My mother is devastated.  However, my mother's friend has a really good attitude about the whole thing.  At least for now.  

Working on a Geriatric Unit really does make you think.  I've had patients who are coming to the end of their life, their families and spouses struggle with what to do next and sometimes they want to hang on to that family member a bit too long.  It certainly has given me some " insider knowledge" as to how I would want to handle my own parents wishes when the time comes.  And I hope it's not too soon.  That is a task that would prove to be challenging and heartbreaking. I don't want to be the one who is in charge of all that mess, but there's not much I can do about that.  Life comes to an end at some point.  I just hope it's peaceful. 

"Fried Green Tomatoes" was on the t.v. tonight.  I've watched that movie a million times and I never get tired of it.  Such a great story.  I hope that if I am ever in some nursing home, that I will have some random person who takes an interest in my stories and experiences.  I don't want to be alone when I get old.  I find it a bit frightening...being alone...it's not a way I want to live.  And since I don't have children of my own, then who will be my voice when I can't make decisions for my own benefit?  Who's going to want my stuff?  Random things that run through my head from time to time.  Hopefully I won't have to think about that for a very long time.  

In the meantime, I will keep moving forward.  As I hope you do as well.  Life can be a funny thing sometimes.  I just hope it kind to us all.  Until next time...elizinashe

Peace & Love Ya'll

Just Some Stuff...

Time for a Refresher

Wow..so much has been going on and yet stuff that's not so important.  I feel like the overload I have had in my head is slowly waning...the past month or so has been pretty stressful in many areas- work, home, personal, family...you name it.  And I allowed it all to mess with my head. 

So a lot of that 'stuff' is beginning to leave so to speak, it's just been one day at a time.  It's just been a bit hard it seems and I'm glad I'm coming out of this funk.  

I finally broke down and got a new phone.  Sheesh...my old phone didn't cost this much!  Why so expensive now?  My old phone, which was a "4", was getting really sketchy.  It would drop calls, automatically call or attempt to text someone in the middle of another call, if not drop the call, freeze up and there was a lot of re-booting going on.  Ugh...last nite while I was talking with my mom, it was giving me some sort of vibrate alert.  When I hung up, my phone had "disabled" itself, thinking I was trying to make some sort of emergency call, or something like that.  Yikes!  So that pretty much told me that my ancient phone compared to today's standards was really and truly was getting ready to die on me at some unexpected point, and then I would be without a phone at a really inconvenient time.  So I did the deed....remember when we thought $50 was too much for a cordless landline phone?  

Politics...what can I say?  I hate it.  But I can't help but pay attention to the debates because it's so important.  What I really hate is the one sidedness that people tend to believe.  The media hasn't been too helpful either with their misleading headlines which I feel like people just read the catching title and not the whole story.  And don't get me started on the mud-slinging blame game finger pointing antics.  Why stoop so low?  How does that earn my vote?  Jesus...how did we become so ugly?  

I will say the good thing about the last couple of weeks is that the weather is getting cooler and things are slowing down a bit.  I've spent some more time in the kitchen, cooking up some soups and busting out the crockpot.  Ahh...therapy...it's been rather lovely for me.  It's a comforting kind of thing for me and I've embraced it as much as I can.  I have a slew of recipes to tackle this season and a few favorites as well.  Good thing my neighbor likes leftovers.  I certainly can't eat it all by myself.  Until next time....elizinashe

Happy Fall Ya'll !

It Ain't No Full Moon

Wish I Could Escape Into This Scene..

I'm a bit restless tonight.  The weather has turned a bit cooler this evening with more chilly weather on it's way at night.  Fall is coming...perhaps it's the changing of the weather itself that has made me a bit unsettled.

I had another peep from my past give me a shout Monday night, as I have previously posted.   She was in town just for a couple of days, making a pit stop here before she headed up to the DC area for work.  We hit the town the following night, catching up with drinks and a big pile of sushi.  We ended our night catching some live music at a local jazz club.  Geeze...I haven't done that in years.  Sure did feel good.  I think this makes the 5th person from my previous days that has re-entered into my life.  Wonder what's up with that?

Our country continues to become so violent.  We had a shooting at an elementary school today in a neighboring state.  It appears that the shooter's father is also a victim.  And sadly, that father is dead.  Apparently the shooter is some 14 year old kid.  WTF?  I just don't get it.  Has it always been this way and we are just now more aware of it because of the media?  And there have been multiple shootings by the police all across our country.  Are they getting trigger happy because of all this violence and shoot impulsively out of fear?  When will it all stop?

I'm the surviving child between my parents.  My brother died unexpectedly when he was twenty years old.  And so that left me.  As my parents age, things begin to change.  And you begin to worry more and think about what may come to pass.  The bigger challenge for me is that my dad still lives in Arkansas-nine hundred some odd miles away.  Give or take.  My mother lives in a neighboring county which is about 45 minutes to an hour from me.  Regardless, they are aging and in relatively good health, but I know they really don't tell me everything that goes on in their world, so that they "won't be a burden".  Ugh...It's more of a burden if I am left in the dark vs. keeping me informed.  I just hope I am prepared to make those decisions when they come.  Having a parent close by is a little less stressful.  Having a parent far, far away is troublesome.  And I am in no way have the ways and means to find them cheaper housing closer to me. Nor would it be a good idea to have any one of them move in with me.  I pray that I will be guided to make the right choice and have the courage to remain strong.  Sigh...I am not looking forward to this at all.  Especially by myself.

Anyway..I guess that's just a few things running around in my head.  Normal adult life stuff, eh?  Until next time...elizinashe

Channeling Happy Days Ahead

Troubled Mind

Feeling a Bit Sad...

Last week was horrible. Both work and home wise.   I had picked up an extra shift on Saturday, going into work feeling tired, drained and disheartened.  My previous shifts at work were horrible.  Just horrible.  And all the violence and hatred that has permeated our country makes my heart hurt.  I don't understand it.  How did we get this way?  How did this kind of behavior become acceptable? 

Regardless, my Saturday night was quite peaceful.  It was a welcome change.  If it had been different in that negative way, I don't think I would have survived without a good cry.  And quite possibly a talk with my Supervisor. 

My past two days have been spent in self-recovery.  I needed to hermit a bit, and just do some basics like dishes and laundry.  Exciting stuff, eh?  I have yet to cook and meal plan for the week as I go back for another stretch of days very soon.  My plans are to tackle that the next two days like a madwoman.  But there are hiccups to address. 

One bonus is that a girlfriend of mine is in town for a couple of days and our plan is to get together for dinner tomorrow night.  Her call was a welcomed surprise as we haven't seen each other in about three years.  She typically comes into town on business and then leaves for her next gig.  It will be great to catch up again, share some hugs and drinks.  It will certainly uplift me. 

One the downside, my cat Hecubus is acting not so well.  And that is so very frustrating.  I see another trip to the vet very, very soon.  As long as I can schedule that around my friend and the Terminex guy that is slated to arrive on Wednesday I'll be fine.   Ugh...He's not in any pain and his behavior is pretty norm, but there are indicators that he's got some kidney issues going on.  Jesus....it's becoming way too frequent and becoming costly.  This is when it would be nice to have an extra person in my life to help me along with all the little things.  Just keeping up with house stuff, cat stuff, shopping stuff and all of those adult commitments is making me feel overwhelmed.  I pray that the next two days will go along swimmingly as my brain is already overloaded with worry, anxiety and hope all at the same time. 

In the meantime, I'm trying to keep the faith that all will work out well.  And whatever may come, I pray that I will have the strength to see things through.  I have a lot I want to accomplish before I return to work but my time management skills are not so great.  Especially when I am still up late at nite in my off time.....I just can't help it sometimes.  I hope and pray that our country will be on the fast track to healing and acceptance.  I feel so disgusted when I hear what comes out of our own citizens mouths.  I thinks it's sad that so many minds have been poisoned and brainwashed all because they believe whatever they read, or what someone says.  I hate that so many people have succumbed to fear and inaccuracies.  And they reinforce those beliefs and pass it on to whoever will listen.  I've never seen such hate in mass quantities.  I just don't get it.   I think we all need to take a moment to pray, meditate or just be still to quite the mind.  And maybe then, we can all think more clearly.  Until next time...elizinashe

Healing Thoughts to My Kitty!

Friends & Peeps From the Past

Time Sure Does Fly, eh? 

People come and go throughout our lives.  Some stay for a brief moment, others stay forever.  Some of those people are just temporary helping you along your way or perhaps they are just a coworker until you part ways.  Others are meant to cross into your life be there for reasons one cannot explain. 

I am lucky to have such wonderful people in my life.  And I know for certain there are a very select few who have come into my life because it was "meant to be".  And I keep those people close to my heart.  

I have also had wonderful times with those "temporary people" that I have worked with, had brief friendships with or maybe they were just around for a short time only to part ways later.   And that was okay too. 

One of my peeps from my past looked me up the other day.  He had lived here in Asheville over ten years ago and then moved back to Arkansas where he grew up.  We lost contact with each other before he moved, can't really remember why, and then the years past by quickly.  I never really forgot about him, but I certainly didn't expect to see or hear from him again.  However, out of the blue, as they say, he reaches out to me as he was in town for a few hours the other night and wanted to catch up real quick.  Wow...that was certainly a surprise but a welcomed surprise for sure.  Hopefully we won't wait another ten plus years for our next visit. 

My former boss found me on Facebook.  Wow..again, a surprise.  I was a bit hesitant to "accept" his friend request, but I did as I have fond memories of working in that bar.  He wasn't a total dickhead, although he had his moments.  He most definitely had some hard times after he lost his business and made some stupid choices but given the whole picture of all that had happened, I can't imagine how he survived.  I've thought about him from time to time...hoping he was happy and well.  I guess I will find out now that we are officially "friends" on Facebook.  

Speaking of the bar, I have also run into two of my former bar guests.  My how time flies..it was good to see them both and it certainly reminds me of how much my life has changed the last ten years or so.  Wow...not only has my life really changed the last ten years ago, but my previous post regarding where I was twenty years ago really makes me think of all the things that have happened in my life thus far.  I've had quite a journey! 

Yes, people come and go like the tides of the sea.  Sometimes it's a really great ride of a wave that leaves after the storm.  And sometimes it remains steady and constant never leaving your side.  (How do you like that analogy?  haha)  Until next time...elizinashe

Daisies = Love & Affection

20 Years Ago...

This Never Gets Old...

A good friend of mine sent me a text the other day regarding a bit of an anniversary date in his life.  Twenty years ago he was taking his wedding vows to which he believed at that time was going to be long lasting and settle into a nice comfortable life.  Well...life had a different plan for him but after many trials, tribulations and adventures, my friend is in a really good place.


So then it made me think, where was I twenty years ago?  Wow...it seems such a lifetime ago.  I was such a different person back then.  I had a live-in boyfriend to which I thought too, he was going to be "my forever", two cats, a really nice apartment and the futuristic hope that I would have kids and a home environment that I wanted to recreate like I had grown up with.

Boy was I wrong.  Twenty years ago I thought I was on the verge of having the life I had always wanted.  The following year, I kicked out the said live-in boyfriend, kept the cats, did a lot of crying and eventually healed my heart.  It was not a good time for me.  But what I can say kicking out that boyfriend was the best thing I could have ever done.  Yes, it was hard but it also gave me a new set of feet , if you will, and I ventured out that summer on a solo vacation without a care in the world.  Not even a hotel reservation!  I just got in the car and drove out to Asheville as I had always wanted to check it out when I was younger as we passed through the city limits on our way to visit family all those years ago.  Now that I was free and single, I could do anything I wanted and I sure as hell did so.  

If These Sandals Could Talk...

The year after I had visited Asheville, I moved here with hopes of making a new life, starting new adventures and getting the hell out of Arkansas and live in the mountains, as I had always known I had wanted to do ever since grade school.  It was something I just had to try, whether it was a success or a complete failure. 


Eighteen years later, with many ups and downs and happy adventures I am still here.  I now have my own house and a better career.  I have some really groovy friends, discovered many a great restaurants, taken some really great vacations, discovered that I really like photography (and sometimes I take some really good pics!), started this blog, gone to many a Dave Matthews Band concerts, seen some really great music at the Orange Peel, worked in a really cool local bar, saw a Russian Ballet and a few performances from our local symphony. 

Downtown Asheville

Yeah...life is pretty good here.  Would I have done all these things in Arkansas?  Who knows...I might have had some similar experiences but I feel like taking this huge leap of faith and getting out of my comfort zone to chase a dream was not only the scariest thing I have done, but it was also the best thing I have ever done.  And I think my life is all the richer because of all of that.  I guess I should thank that boyfriend that had broken me.  If it weren't for that, I might not have decided to "get up and go". 

I feel more settled these days.  I'm really quite happy with my little life.  I couldn't imagine living anywhere else.  But who knows?  Life sure has a surprising way of pointing you towards your next adventure.  Wonder where I will be twenty years from now.  Until next time...elizinashe

What will the Future Hold?

Late Night Ramblings...

I Dig Our Downtown

I've been doing a lot of reflecting lately.  I've come a long way in my quest to find myself, and I'm still finding my way in this world.  I think that's just a life long process to begin with.  

I'm pretty happy with life these days.  Some aspects could be better and many aspects could be a lot worse.  And I am pretty aware of that.  I'm just thankful for having a good life.  

Sometimes I miss the days of exploring downtown late at night with friends, checking out some bar and listening to live music.  Back in the day, it was a night of drinking, dancing and meeting people.  Sometimes I'd meet a guy.  But those kind of relationships never quite lasted.  But those were fun days for sure.  

I miss walking the streets, agreeing on a place for a late night breakfast and coffee and tumbling home in the wee hours crashing into bed, reminiscing over the night.  Sometimes regretfully too.  haha..

There was what was seemingly a freedom in having such weekends.  Young and free without much a care in the world.  When you're young, working with a hangover was a slight given.  Nowadays, not so much.  But I do miss those days...leaving your place at night, wearing something special, hair and makeup done with the goal in mind to have some fun.  Now I know others who would get out and about had other agenda's, but for myself, I just wanted to have a few drinks, do some dancing and have a good time doing so.  And there was just something wonderful about that late night breakfast with coffee and cigarettes.  Hadn't done that in a long time.  Maybe I will go revisit a night like that soon.  Late night breakfast talk is always a good thing.  I do like good conversation over a cup of coffee.  Feeling a bit hungry as I write...maybe I'll go make some eggs.   Until next time...elizinashe

The Best Thing Ever After a Night At the Bar

218 South Grand

Small But Mighty

My dad recently went to his high school reunion in Kansas where he grew up.  The house that grew up in along with his siblings, the house that seemed so big and curious is apparently on the market.  For a mere $119K and some change.  That may  not be too pricey considering housing these days and for the small town it resides but you sure are getting a real gem.  

I never knew my grandfather as he passed away when I was about two years old.  I really have no memory of him.  But I remember my grandmother quite well.  After a long, long journey from Arkansas into Oklahoma and into Kansas, we would finally arrive on the front porch with steps that seemed quiet large to a kid.  And my grandmother always had brownies made from scratch with powdered sugar on top and sugar cookies too in a 1940s like canister.  She didn't change or update that much.  Even with the decor but at least she was consistent.  haha..

I remember the wood inside the house being a lovely redish color, slick and shiny.  The stairs to the second floor were really slick!  So much as you really had to be careful going up and down and not too fast!  We had all tripped and fallen at some point in our many visits.  And those stairs were pretty sturdy and steep themselves!  

There was a closet upstairs that was a 'walk in' type but it also joined two rooms which was super cool for us kids.  It was like a secret room of it's own.  Lots of imagination in our play.  

It's so cool to see this old place again.  My grandmother passed away many years ago and the house was sold before she passed as she had moved to an assisted living close to her daughter before she got too sick.  My grandmother lived alone in that house the whole time I grew up.  And she was perfectly happy with that.  I don't know who bought it or how many times it has been bought/sold since.  Apparently my grandfather paid $2500 for the home back in the 1930s.  Can you believe that?  That's one helluva investment. 

I like seeing the pictures of all the rooms from the listing and I know exactly where each room is and how it's all laid out.  I see quite a few updates, including part of the wall in the dining room has been knocked out to make more room entering the kitchen.  Interesting.  And needed.  Regardless, it's good to see the place again.  I have great memories visiting my grandmother in that house.  Including sitting on the screened in back porch and making homemade ice cream.  Can't get much better than that.  

Take a gander and see for yourself if you wish.  It was a good place to be.    Cheers-elizinashe

http://www.trulia.com/property/3146809374-218-S-Grand-St-McPherson-KS-67460#photo-22 

The Night Life

Who Doesn't Like Milk & Cookies?

Being a night shifter has its perks.  

1).  You don't have to get up really early in the morning.
2).  Shift differential. 
3).  Your fellow night staff.  They will always rock!
4).  You can drink wine in the morning and get away with it. 
5).  Sleep deprived silliness with your coworkers.  

The downside...
1).  You tend to stay up almost as late in your off time. 
2).  You feel like you miss out on daytime activities with your friends who work 'normal hours'. 
3).  You don't feel as productive in your off time because you're trying to be a day person.  
4).  Scheduling appointments.  Always late in the afternoon. 
5).  It can be lonely at times, due to being up late anyway in your off time. 

Regardless, I really don't mind working nights.  At least it gives me time to prepare for work before I clock in and jump in the mix of the unit.  What really helps is having the extra time before work to run an errand or two to knock out other necessary adult stuff so I won't have too much to do in my off time.  And when winter weather hits our area, I feel like I have more time to prepare and drive into work in better daylight vs driving on untreated roads in the dark before the sun arrives.  

And in this late nite owl status that I have adopted, I have discovered some really cool movies, concerts  and a few documentaries on the 'boob tube' now that I have cable.  I refuse to watch all the popular series stuff like a lot of my peers follow, simply because I'm in the middle of the series running and I don't like to 'binge watch'.  So I just that stuff alone.  

I have also discovered mounds of delicious recipes that I have "pinned to my board" to test out in the coming months.  And yes, I have discovered the Pinterest.  Geeze....that's a whole other world.  At least I have kept it simple.  Mostly recipes as I like to cook.  It's an endless battle.  

I have also seen quite a few shooting stars and have heard mystery sounds from some kind of creature late at night while I'm sitting on my deck.  Good stuff.  I hope to experience more of that.  Especially the shooting stars bit.  I have quite a few wishes to make.   

And so...that is it folks.  At least for now.  I had intended to write about something completely different, but as I began to hammer out on my keys, this came out of my head.  Guess that's a good thing.  Until next time....elizinashe

Oh If Only It Were This Exciting!

So Much to Say....

You Know You Want to Sing It! 

What the hell is going on in our world these days?  Sheesh!

Again, I feel like "Reality TV" has brainwashed the minds of our youth and those who have grown up watching that shit.  Nobody has any scruples anymore.  Or so it seems. 

So much gun violence.  And so much hatred.  And a lot of it is one sided.  Yes, there are some who are trying to have open discussions and start a conversation about how we can make it all better.  But yet, there are those who are adding to the problem and turning up the heat without thinking about the consequences.  

There have been peaceful protests, and violent protests.  I'm glad we live in country where we are allowed to do such things, but when you impede on public safety, instigate violence and shut down city streets and highways, ( yes...a highway folks.  Oakland I-880 just this past week) then you are adding to the problem.  And I won't even touch our politicians.  They are all a part of the problem too.  

What are we teaching our kids?  Certainly not much.  Not just but 30 minutes ago, my neighbors kid got her friend's SUV stuck behind our homes on a narrow street and halfway in a grassy area that is sloped in a rather steep like fashion.  The driver's back wheel is slightly bent.  Three teens....not drunk mind you but in a bit of a pickle.  The SUV needs to be towed out of this predicament. Otherwise, it might roll over.  The neighbor's kid has been nice and thankful for what assistance I provided.  The owner of the SUV, who doesn't even know how to put her SUV into 4wheel drive, is on her phone, calling somebody who I think was not a parent, not even looking at me or thanking me in my attempts to help.  The third teen, somewhat thankful but he quickly turned his attention to his companions.  Whatever happened to common courtesy and saying "Thank you" when someone is trying to help you?  Jesus...

Anyway...just some quick rants.  I used to joke back in high school that I would move to Switzerland because the country pretty much stays neutral in all worldly political things, the people are friendly and happy not to mention having really good chocolate available at any given time.  And oh, the landscape is breathtaking.   Now I think it's not such a bad idea.  I find a lot of Americans rather self indulgent.  And again, I think our society encourages that kind of mentality.  I fear of what may come to pass for our country.  I hope and pray that I am wrong.  Until next time....elizinashe

Be Careful of the Seeds that You Plant

Sister Moon

You've Been Mooned

If you're a space and sky geek, tonight is your night.  Not only is it a full moon, but it's the first full moon that coincides with the Summer Solstice.  A "Strawberry Moon" if you will...although it most likely won't be red in color, or even pink, but whatever.  

I know from experience a full moon definitely has it's pull on us earthlings.  And I would assume on Mother Nature as well.  I've been a bit restless and anxious today but just can't seem to get knock out my "to do" list completely as I had hoped.  As for the Mother Nature thing, well let's just say I found some creepy crawly things on the side of my house today that did not make me very happy.  Ew...those buggars will have a very short existence I can guarantee that.  Bleh!  I don't do creepy crawly things.  At all.

I wonder what the beach is like tonight.  The moon sure does have it's effect on the tides, and on a night like this, with the Earth tilting for the Summer, it makes me wonder what kind of waves are crashing about.  Sure do wish I were there.  I could use the getaway.  

You think the wolves are having a field day with this full moon thing?  Or is that just folklore?  Maybe the bats are having a party too.  The vampires must be happy don't ya think?  haha...

Regardless, this restless mind will come to a close for this post, as I just can't seem to gather my thoughts.  I blame it on the moon.  But on a brighter note,  Summer has officially started.  And you know what that means...it's time for ice cream!  Until next time...elizinashe

Mmmm....

I've Got the Itch...

Trying to Stay Focused....

I've been wanting some sort of entryway cabinet for the house ever since I moved into my new place.  However, a kitchen table was a priority.  Once that was bought and placed in my new digs I patiently waited on buying that entryway cabinet.  I'd look here and there on occasion, only to be disappointed by how it was made or the asking price.  Some stuff is just too overpriced.  At least I think so...

Anyway, fast forward two years.  I'm back on the hunt.  It's a bit of an obsession for me.  Although I do want a new entertainment type center/TV cabinet, as my Goodwill end table is rather ugly, but so is my TV.  It's at least 15 years old itself.  But it still works so buying a new boob tube is not high on my priority list.  Anyway...

So I'm randomly at TJ Maxx, looking for a cabinet when I find a new piece of luggage that I could really use, especially since I have a trip coming in my near future.  I haven't had any new luggage in about 30 years so I am past due.  Plus, I'm trying to have one luggage item to use and downsize a bit instead of having too much crap.  I think my new pink suitcase will be the perfect hit.  

But...I find this really cool bookcase too.  Hmmm... "just one purchase today, just one "....I tell myself.  I really liked this bookcase too.  Plus it was fairly cheap compared to other furniture pieces I've seen.  I think it would look really cool in my new digs too.  But, when I envision it in my head, I think it will be too long for the area I plan on placing it, since it has long end pieces due to it's funky style.  Bookcase on the back burner...don't need to over spend. 

So today, I stop by at some "discount warehouse" furniture store.  I think I found my entryway cabinet.  It's doable financially, but it is not as long lengthwise as I had wanted.  But it could work.  It might be better than a longer piece.  And the bonus is it just might fit in the back of my car, so I avoid the hiked up delivery fee.  Another plus.  Hmm....I've contemplated about this most of night.  My justification is if the cabinet is still there on Sunday, when I am free from work, then I will highly consider in making this purchase.  I think it will be what I've been looking for the last couple of years.  However...TJ Maxx is open on Sunday's too.  Do I really go overboard and scratch all these itches I've kept at bay?  Sheesh...home ownership I tell ya!  

What I really struggle with is not spending too much considering I am the only breadwinner at this address and there is always something that comes up.  Car stuff, cat stuff, plumbing stuff, yard stuff...need I go on?  Trying my best to keep it all at bay.  It's all too easy to go nuts on decorating a new place.  Especially if you got the itch.  Maybe there's a cream for that.  Until next time....elizinashe

Aren't They Lovely?