Cute Shoes

Why can't designers make shoes that are as comfy as New Balance sneakers but look amazing? To heck with the heels, that ship sailed for me long ago but c'mon how about a pair or sturdy CUTE shoes that can be worn with a beaded gown?

I am going to check out Mills Fleet Farm today for shoes. You never know - they advertised ladies lace lingerie in their holiday flier. Seriously, right next to the guns and ammo was a picture of a pink and black teddy.

"Cute shoes" "thanks, I got them from MFF" hahahaha

Year in Review

2010 was a fine year. Sure, some stress with the political campaign, a few minor health issues but overall a fine year. On my FB page I did the automatic picture collage. What struck me right away is that I look goofy and wear a lot of hats. My daughter suggested in 2011 I may want to take pictures without hats.

C'mon, what fun would that be?

They - whoever they are say the way you spend New Year's Eve is an indication of the way the rest of your year will turn out. Last year we were asleep by 10:30 p.m. This year we are going to a black-tie gala so that means 2011 will be jam-packed with excitement, parties and that I get to play dress up more than once.

The problem with 2011 is that nothing rhymes. Twenty eleven, hope you don't die and go to heaven. Two oh one one - it's the year to get it done. See what I mean?

No new phrases have come to mind or come across my email like - wishing you health to spare, friends that care and chocolate that magically appears in your purse when you need it.

Thank you faithful blog reader(s) I will try to post more often in 2011 and endeavor to be funny, interesting or at least mildly amusing :- ) And, will try to get my graphics back!

Roast Beast

Remember how the Grinch is astounded that even though he stole ALL the trimming, trappings and wrapping Christmas still came? But then at the end of the story he carved the "traditional roast beast"

Are you required to have ham, or turkey on Christmas Day?

This year we have some empty-nester friends whose adult children are at "the other side" this holiday. The husbands request for Christmas dinner? PIZZA. Yes indeed .Much to the wife's dismay we are having pizza. We will have make your own pizza's for our Christmas dinner. I plan to make mine in the shape of a tree and have the pepperoni as festive decorations...watch for post-holiday pizza pictures!

Better late than never

Okay, pretend it is the day I was supposed to post...thanks for your understanding blog reader(s).

Mrs. Claus and Sassy the Elf were the highlight of the day at the Peace Plaza last Saturday. Yeah, Yeah - Santa was rescued by the fire department because he took a wrong turn AGAIN and ended up on the roof. C'mon Santa -program your GPS or find a female reindeer to lead the pack so you don't get lost.

Sassy the adorable elf and I strolled into the GALLERIA. (I don't care what the new name is it is the Galleria to me.) We had several pictures taken with adorable children. The we strolled down to the old City Hall and greeted, high-fived and threw snowballs at the crowd. We said Hey Old Man to Santa and he got in a sleigh with a cute young girl and her Grandma.

Then the fun really started!

In Santa's workshop Mrs. Claus read/told stories. How many times can you read "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" without getting sick of it? I don't know because it was fun every time. I did have to switch stories after about 2 hours because talking like the Grinch is tough on my voice.

The kids were attentive, polite, quite cute and gave me pictures they colored Seeing the excitement in their eyes was worth having cold feet. The kids who had runny noses or coughed didn't get to sit on my lap. hahaha - just kidding.

Next week is the big test when Mrs. Claus and Sassy perform for one solid hour for a group of physicians. Too bad the crowd won't be sipping brandy ahead of time, eh?

Stay tuned for pictures of future holiday appearances!

If I only had a brain...

Many years ago my Dad said to me: "Vicki Lou, I swear if you had a tattoo you would lose it" hahaha. I was going through a challenging time in my life and had a lot on my mind, I was juggling 2 jobs, being a single Mom so that was understandable.

Now my life is calm and stress-free.Then why would I forget to write something FUN on my calendar and miss it? Old age? Possibly. I missed going to a cooking class with a friend last night. Stink Stink Double Stink!

The question is now - did my friend save me any of the amazing holiday goodies they made last night?

Tomorrow's post: Mrs. Claus comes to town!!

Black Friday

It's not a secret that I enjoy shopping. My sweet husband hasn't purchased an item of clothing in 16 years and he is just fine with that. The "clothes fairy" magically puts items in his closet and he is delighted.

I love a bargain, I love consignment shopping, I don't even mind grocery shopping. However, I have never been enticed into shopping on Black Friday because of the crowd, the parking situation and waiting in line for 30 minutes
would sour me on the joys of shopping.

My friend Shirley is a Black Friday warrior. Armed with her list of items that are fabulous deals she and her HUSBAND have a game plan and attack the stores. They drop and run. The husband drops her at the door, she runs in for the good deals and ta-da! they are finished in no time.

Shirley can have a conversation with anyone so waiting in line doesn't bother her. It is a form of stress relief for other people since she is outgoing and fun.

I asked Shirl if she went to Herberger's to go to the top of the escalator and buy the musical dancing hat. Regular price $50 Ha! as if anyone would pay that price. Black Friday price? $14.99!! Yippee, they had some left and she just dropped it off (6:42 a.m.) so I can wear it to ring bells today.

Life is good.

Jury Duty - Me?

The official "you have been chosen" letter arrived yesterday. Be ready for jury duty starting December 27, 2010. I have told three people I was selected and all three of them burst out laughing.

Am I offended? Not at all. I did the same thing when I saw the return address.

It is my civic duty. I have no official hardships that prevent me from serving. If I have specific ailments that prevent me from being a good jury member I need to have a doctor's note. Can I convince either one of my friendly physician's to write me a note for being opinionated, easily bored, fidgeting, wheezing or going to the ladies room a lot?

I reminded my husband that I knew Susan Smith was lying 'lo these many years ago about killing her kids. I could tell by her fake tears. What if I suddenly jump up and scream LIAR! Would I be kicked off jury duty?

Probably not. So, on CHRISTMAS EVE after 4:30 p.m. I will dutifully call the number listed on the letter and wait and see if anyone actually picks me to sit on a jury.

Ready for Winter

Garage door status checked by professional? check

Sump pump hose ready for winter? check

Extra layers of fat added to stay warm this winter?
double check

Mouse poison in garage to kill unwanted critters? check

Hats, mittens and scarves ready to wear? You betcha!

Bread machine on counter to make tasty, warm and comforting bread? check

Projects and books to keep me busy in case I get snowed in? check

Ingredients ready to make homemade fudge? Yes indeed.

Snow and Cold? Bring it on!!!

Simple Pleasures

A cup of strong coffee shared with a friend.

Laughing. More laughing. Not wetting your pants from laughing.

Receiving a hug from a sweet 94 year old lady.

Being the big winner of chicken foot dominoes!

Language

Some of my pet peeves regarding language are:

People who say: "to make a long story short" and then go on and on and on. If you hear someone say that phrase better get comfy because you aren't going anywhere soon.

People who waste words: "I would like to take this opportunity to introduce Frank the Fiddler Player..." How about "Here's Frank!" or "it's my pleasure to introduce Frank to you this evening"

People who are mumble: eoaiufoaughj said.

People who use ain't, people who use went and gone incorrectly and tied for most annoying word ever- irregardless or funnest. They aren't WORDS regardless of what Sarah Palin thinks.

No, I don't have proper grammar all the time. If there are words I know I don't use correctly I use other words instead.

So your challenge this week faithful blog reader is to speak up and not waste words :- )

How can

I have the flu if I got my flu shot 6 weeks ago?

Pressure

Recently I was in the check out line at Kohl's.

The clerk asked "do you want to use your Kohls charge"
no thanks, I don't have one

"would you like one"
no thanks

"if you open one today you can get 15% off"
no but thanks for asking

"would you like to give me your email address"
NO THANKS
"oh, I see, you're one of those"

After a deep calming breath my reply was: If you mean by one of those people that I just want to purchase one item without being pressured than yes - read her name tag insert her name here - I am one of those.

Oops, I think we forgot to wish each other to have a nice day.

Potty Training

Who is in charge of the house if a child isn't potty trained at 4 years old?

C'mon already!

Need help getting your little darling to go poo-poo in the potty chair? Ask me.

Reasonable rates. Kind but firm method. No bribery, games, toys, no making it an enjoyable experience. It's going potty for Pete's Sake not a trip to Disney world.

From: the voice of experience whose younger sister was trained by me at 10 months and my daughter at 12 months old.

Change

I am now a red head. Pictures soon.

Losing

In an old Andy Griffith episode Pa talks to Opie about being a good sport. Opie was discouraged because he lost a race and was sulking and refusing to congratulate the winner who won fair and square. Pa had a heart to heart talk with him and sure enough, Opie saw the light and did the right thing.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if everyone did that? If you lose a race of some sort instead of mumbling, calling for a recount and acting like a fool just step up to the plate and say "I lost, you won, congratulations" End of story.

I guess some of us need a trip back to Mayberry!

Shopping with Strangers

One of the added features to shopping at consignment stores is that quite often people "shop with strangers". I don't mean you grab someone on the street and say "hey you, wanna shop with me" but rather engage them in conversation once you are in a store.

Recently I was in a very cool store and this woman headed to the exact same sweater hanging on display. I thought about lunging at her screaming "MINE" but instead waited until she tried it on and sort of lurked in another aisle. I said "looks good on you" (no I didn't add but it would look great on me) and we discussed where in the world she would wear it.

With her husband shooting daggers at her since he had been dragged along shopping she returned it to the display but not before she gave him the look.

I cheerfully said "sir, did you know there is an area up front to sit and read Field and Stream magazines" hint hint, nudge nudge let you wife shop in peace buddy. The woman gratefully smiled at me and we continued the "oh, you should buy that" special shopping with strangers conversation.

Who bought the sweater? I think you know. Who had fun shopping with strangers? We both did.

Duct Tape

Whew, my days of duct tape are nearly over! While my hard-working husband has been diligently and enthusiastically serving on council, campaigning and working 40+ hours a week my objectives have been:

1. Keep my mouth shut on political subjects (and people) in public.
2. Maintaining a calm, clean home, making meals, being supportive and helpful.

Which is the hardest?
Correct!

National Bologna Day

National Bologna Day was October 24th. The first thing that comes to mind when I hear the word bologna is of course the Oscar Meyer song. "My bologna has a first name..."

This summer I was one of a handful of adults who went to visit the O.M. wienermobile parked in front of HyVee Grocery store. The young woman who is lucky enough to be on the road with the wienermobile took my picture AND taped me singing the song (complete with gestures).

I shared the video with some friends and posted a picture on Facebook. I didn't intentionally send it to my boss at the non-profit agency for which I work part-time. However, a few weeks ago I sent several pictures and accidentally included the wiener video. Oops! Fortunately, my boss overlooked the error. Either that or she and the other managers had a good chuckle.

My husband I visited North Carolina a few years ago and fried bologna sandwiches were on the menu at most of the places we ate (if we had "dined" I doubt it would have been on the menu) Mmmmm....smelled good. It was served on white bread with a side of white grits. I took a few bites and then asked for some mustard to kill the taste and choke the rest of it down.

So I encourage you to go out today and try and order a fried bologna sandwich and then let me know what happens!

Spiders

In real life Spiders creep me out.

However, this coming week I am wearing a dazzling collection of spider earrings, necklace, headband, bracelet (thanks Kris) ring, socks, spider shawl, carrying a spider handbag, wearing black and shiny clothing and to top it all off adding a fabulous headband with a huge glittery spider!

Am I going to a Halloween party? No, I just need more attention. hahaha. Yes - I am attending a square dance party, a Salvation Army party and face painting (spiders, naturally) at a school carnival on Saturday.

The High Road

Eleven more days of taking "the high road". The verse that comes to mind (and I have printed and put around the house for my benefit) is from Proverbs 10:9:

The man of integrity walks securely, but he

who takes a crooked path

will surely be found out.

Miss America

Wouldn't it be great if political ads were similar to the Miss America pageant? Instead of filling the airwaves with negative slams and unflattering photos of the opponent the candidates appear in different outfits just like Miss America.

One outfit would be the traditional "in the country" where the candidate puts on a checkered flannel shirt from Mills Fleet Farm and chews on a piece of hay while listening intently to the concerned farmer.

Another ensemble could be at "the factory" when the candidate wears a pale blue denim shirt with the cuffs rolled up and naturally a hard hat.

The final show case is with his or her loving family walking out of church on Sunday morning when the smiling candidate is wearing a white shirt, red striped tie and navy blue suit or a navy blue skirt suit with navy close-toed pumps and a soft pastel shirt.

Then just for fun they could all display a special talent! Play the trumpet, tap dance or do a short magic show.

Finally, all the candidates could answer one simple Miss America type question. One question - one 30 second answer.

That's it! Are you with me? Next election season let's promote the idea and see if the campaign season is less offensive and more fun.

prepared

With the exception of one item I am ready for the gift-giving portion of Christmas. Gifts were purchased,wrapped and mailed to Michigan last week. Gifts for people in the area are wrapped and stored.

My dates to ring bells for the Salvation Army are set, the schedule is confirmed to volunteer at the Festival of Trees and the Mama Claus appearances are rolling in.

Why so early? Anticipation and preparation are part of the fun! By being prepared ahead of time I can truly enjoy the season. Concerts, church programs (where the kids get all squirmy and cry) can be enjoyed without the stress.

C'mon, jump on the preparation bandwagon and see the difference it makes this holiday season.

Moment of frustration scream day

Today is National Moment of Frustration Scream Day. I think it means if you didn't save your document and your computer crashes you should scream. Or, you can scream if you gained weight even though you ate rice cakes and salad all week. Or...you could just scream for fun.

I am going to try screaming today even though I have no plans to become frustrated. However, just in case a neighbor is walking past the house I will scream by myself in my car. Who knows, it could be a new form of expression. Guess I better warn my sweet husband ahead of time in case I decide to make it a regular habit.

Cranky

Why did so many people look and act cranky today? It's a beautiful sunny day! No, I didn't hang out at the jail or the hospital where you might expect to see frowns, scowled foreheads and people looking for some sunshine in their lives.

At the local office supply store the clerk said to me "well, I can't help you because you obviously have the wrong information" and then walked away from me. Tell the manager? I think it WAS the manager.

A few days ago I turned 58 years old. I told a friend I was going to start saying what I thought regardless of the issue. She laughed and said "you already do" True to a point. I have been trying to remain tactful. Yes, you are right, it is HARD!

Only another 34 days left until the general election! Then I can speak my mind. Whew, I can't wait. So, the point is if you want to see me polite, tactful and patient your time is running out :- )

Grandma-wannabee

I will never be a . I used to tease my Mom because every time she saw a baby or a toddler she would turn into this goo-goo-ga-ga- pinch-the-babies-cheek without permission type of crazy woman.

I have turned into my .

Last week my husband and I were having breakfast at a popular restaurant when a young mother, her sister and three adorable little girls came in the restaurant. Luckily for me, they sat right next to us!

At one point after smiling at, making faces at and uttering out loud lots of "for cutes!" I apologized to the adults. "Seriously, I am not a weird-o stalker but I don't have grandchildren of my own." She nodded and said " no problem" but gave her sister the look that clearly said "that woman is a lunatic" Then she gave me the uh-huh, you are a goofy old woman get away from me grin that I have come to recognize.

Over the edge? Not long ago while shopping I saw this precious Halloween costume for a little girl. I picked it up, gushed over it and carried it around for awhile trying in vain to think of someone I knew to give it too.

This is why despite the fact many children are little germ carrying runny nose I can't wait for December when I can play Mrs. Claus and have a purpose when I pick up and hug the little darlings, read them stories and pretend -- just for a moment -- that they are my very own little precious grand babies and that I am real Grandma and not a Grandma-wannabee.

Camping

Bugs
Heat and Humidity
Icky toilets or none at all
Sand in your food
Wet, smelly dogs
Bugs
Damp pillows and tents



Lovely campfire
S'mores
Peace and Quiet


Upcoming blog topic: Do you think I am a camping enthusiast?

Dull

Yesterday I had lunch with a friend who asked why I haven't been blogging lately. I said it's because I don't have anything interesting to say. She replied "that never stopped you before" ha ha ha. Or something similar. Sometimes I hear a conversation one way then when I think about it later it changes. I don't lie about it but my little brain just darts off in another direction all on it's own.

The BIG news is that after a 1.5 year hiatus due to health issues I finally went back to SQUARE DANCING last week! I was only able to dance 4 of the 12 dances but it was wonderful. Sure, I took lots of (legal) pain pills ahead of time and had my knee wrapped in an oh-so-attractive huge knee brace but it was worth it!

Yes, still swimming but not as often in the summer. You will see me out and about when it is minus 10 degrees than in the muggy summertime.

The Silver Treads square dance group at the senior center are a welcoming, warm, and caring group of seasoned yet energetic dancers.

Someone in the guppy girl family is a government official so I have been busy assisting with their re-election effort as well. As you might guess, I would make a rotten elected official. The hours of work to study each week are one thing but being tactful is another matter entirely.

Dear blog reader(s) thanks for checking back!

Guppy Girl Snyder

Integrity

"The man of integrity walks securely, but he who
takes crooked paths will be found out"

Proverbs 10:9

National Pecan Pie Day

I make lousy pies. Overall, I am not a bad cook but pies are better left to experts. The first time I made a Pecan Pie

was about 18 years ago when I was dating my sweet husband. It turned out terrible! It was soupy and runny and crust tasted like a piece of salty, stale rice cake. And yet, he ate it - smiled, said it was tasty and thanked me for making it.

After 16 years of marriage do you think he would still be as kind? By golly, yes he would because he is a tactful and loving man.

Today, I will go to Baker's Square - where they make delicious peis - and buy one piece for him instead in honor of National Pecan Pie Day!

Curmugeonette

You are correct - curmugeonette is not a word. However, it could be if enough people started using it. Take for example the phrase "funnest" Funnest is not a real word! Every time I hear it I cringe and yet people use the word frequently.

It dawned on me this year that I had reached the curmugeonette stage when I didn't care about seeing the fireworks display. Too hot, too wet, too much traffic.

Let's blame my surliness on the weather! Okay, I like that idea.

If I get cranky with air conditioning just imagine what I would have been like as a pioneer. Heat, outdoor toilets, bugs and not a Caribou coffee in site. Whew, image my curmugeonette level then.

Let's make July, 2010 the month we start making up our own words and incorporating them into mainstream vocabulary.

Curmugeonettes Unite!

Sirens

If sirens go off in the middle of the night and I sleep through it without rushing to the basement in fear does that make me brave or just tired?

No parade

Sad, sad, sad. The officials should have cancelled
the Rochestefest parade sooner!


See the wonderful photo by Jerry Olson at www.postbulletin.com for a picture that says it all.

Cheese Curds and more

Tonight my charming husband and I are going to dine at the food booths at Rochesterfest. Yes, greasy cheese curds and fries are tasty but I always think: where do the food vendors wash their hands?

I remember my Mom used to say "ach Vicki Lou, it's just a little dirt, you will eat a pound of dirt before you die"

So if you want to join Guppy Girl Snyder and her husband this evening at the annual City festival look for us near the information booth.

Inspirational

Want to put a on your face?

Check out www.annawantimes.com for an inspirational story about a 12 year boy who created and has maintained a weekly paper for his hometown of 900 people for the past 3 years. Yep, that means he started a newspaper when he was 9 years old.

Congratulations to editor Keith Davis from Annawan, Illinois.

Storm Baby Alert

The sirens sounded last night and I did not go to the basement! This is a major step for a "Storm Baby".



At 11 p.m. the phone rang and it was the Mayor of Rochester informing Councilman Snyder the City had declared a state of emergency. Did I head to the basement then? no, I was too tired.

Here's hoping the storms forecast for tonight evaporate before they touch down.

and the forecast is

Gum Etiquette

Some adults need a gum etiquette refresher -- If you are walking down the aisle at your OWN wedding, don't chomp on gum.

If you are a color guard wearing an official military uniform displaying the American flag - don't chew gum with your mouth open.

If you are IN the wedding party, the facilitator for the ceremony or interviewing for a job - don't chew gum. Swallow it, stick in behind your ear or hand it to a friend but for heaven's sake SPIT it OUT!

Today's tirade cheerfully written by Guppy Girl Snyder who contrary to popular belief really isn't an old grouch.

Summer Holiday

Should people be allowed to blog if they are boring? No, I don't think so either. Hence, the reason I have not been blogging lately. I could say I have been on an exciting summer holiday and haven't had time to post -- if any of the 11 blog readers believe that please let me know and I will buy you yep, a double scoop!

I hope your summer is filled with exciting adventures that create lasting memories.

June

Generally the month of June means -- visits with who live far away and of course in Rochester, MN
it also means the Rochesterfest parade!


Does this mean that after way too long the Chick Chat blog will become interesting again?
We can only hope.

Tomorrow's topic: I've been out of high school how long??

Wienerrmobile

Since I will never make it on Broadway my claim to fame
is belting out the "I wish I were an Oscar Mayer Wiener" song in
a grocery store parking lot.

Was there a huge, attentive crowd that clapped wildly when I was finished with my off-key rendition? No. Just two cheerful Oscar Mayer staff members. A few people who were going in the store to shop gave me some strange looks but heck, I am used to that.

After singing the song I received a tiny wiener whistle! Naturally, I was so excited about it I had to test it out while I was grocery shopping. Shoppers were not amused by an old chunky woman blowing the whistle. Go figure.

Plus, in 200 words or less I filled out a form to explain why I would like to be the winner and ride "Shot-bun" for 4 hours when the Wienermobile returns to Rochester in August. In addition, the winner will received $5,000 and you had to write what you would do with that money. Yikes! Not much time to prepare. In another blog post I will tell you how I would spend the

Check back next week!

Milestone

This is post #250! Not hard to believe I can still find topics on which to ramble aimlessly but I am surprised people ask why I haven't been updating lately.

None of your beeswax. Ha Ha Ha. Thanks for checking in and reading "Chick Chat"

Today's post is about being rude. No, not me being rude which occasionally happens, but people who talk and whisper during concerts, at the movies or just anywhere they are supposed to pay attention.

I asked a friend how she enjoyed an event she recently attended. She said the most interesting part was watching one group of "shushers" give dirty looks and try to quiet down a rowdy group of women. The more they shushed the louder the women spoke.

My friend asked what I would have done. I said I would have tactfully spoken to the rude talkers and if that didn't work would have asked the person in charge to speak to them. If that didn't work I would have called in the . Okay, that may be extreme.

Rude people are like small children and need to be gently coaxed and taught proper manners.

Here's hoping that you are not or never will be someone who has to get "shushed"

BBD

Still here but suffering from Blogger's Blank Disease....check back later today after I gather (and steal) great ideas from fellow Y members.

Fairy Godmother

Thanks to the blog reader(s) who are wondering why in the heck I haven't blogged lately. No, I haven't been on (vacation) just busy with my 30 hour a week non-profit job and several speaking engagements. Life is good just a bit hectic these past few weeks.

Check back later today for updates

Ta-Da! Updates as promised

FAIRY GODMOTHER arrives in Rochester! Nope, it's not me. A charming woman I worked with on volunteer activities awhile back started her own business. This talented woman is like a Fairy Godmother because she will do the tasks you don't want to do, don't have the time to do OR you can "buy" her and give someone a special gift.

Liz Pokorski from Personalized Assistance will make meals, run errands, take your to the vet, clean your cupboards, drive you to the airport , pack if you are moving and makes amazing cookies as well.

Trustworthy, reliable, friendly and reasonable! www.personalizedassistancebyliz.com

May Day

Happy May Day!

astounding

Astounding as it may be, until yesterday I did not own a rubber

Bob, my 81 year old friend (who has more energy and enthusiasm than five teenagers combined) just knew I would be thrilled with the and I was!

My chicken had been in a box of items at a church to be tossed. Who would toss out a perfectly good rubber ?

We "baptized" the in the pool at the Y and chuckled at the expression on the lifeguards face.

How wonderful to be at a stage in life where you don't have to worry about "how it will look to others" and still be able to balance acting professional when necessary.

Life is good!

mush

Use it or lose it must apply to all situations. Recently, I agreed to become an officer of the Great people, involved in the community, fine volunteers.

However, the particular position I hold requires a great deal of memorization. I remember the prayers from grade school, the pledge of allegiance, song lyrics from 30 years ago but am having a of a time memorizing lines.

You can't paraphrase or just deliver the main message either. It must be precise.

I wish I could remove the parts of my brain that hold useless information. Do I really need to remember all the words to the song "Does your chewing gum lose its flavor on the bedpost overnight?" No, absolutely not.

The past few evenings I have been practicing, writing note cards and then making sure they fit in the pocket of my blazer.

Someone said "write it on your hand" Ha! too much information for that. I wonder if the other other officers would allow me to write on their hands and then they could oh so casually turn their hands so I could read it...
It's an idea worth pursuing.

Use it or lose it or your brain will turn to mush like mine has.