Living Large on a Small Income

Third Time's the Charm

2011-01-18T17:30:00.006-06:00

In my last real blog post, I mentioned that I was going to Washington D.C. Since I wrote that, I have been there THREE times, and it was always great. It's a fantastic city for touring on a budget. Since all of the monuments and most of the museums are government owned they are free of charge. (Free until you get to the cafeteria and bookstore -- then they gouge you.)

Among all the free things I did in the nations capitol, the following are a few of the more memorable.

Read the Gettysburg address in the Lincoln Memorial while Maddie colored nearby.
Saw both the Star Spangled Banner and the Ruby Slippers in less than an hour.
Fed the pigeons at the base of the Washington Monument.
Saw the collection of books that Thomas Jefferson donated to the Library of Congress -- he was quite a reader! ;)
Walked past the protester who has been camped outside the White House for 29 years -- years!
Met Santa Clause near the National Christmas tree.
Saw over fifty-seven Norman Rockwell paintings and drawings -- on loan from George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. How nice.
Got out of the way while a group of veterans had their picture taken at the WWII memorial.
Stood on the spot where John Quincey Adams had his desk in Statuary Hall. I've told many classes about it, and now I can say that I was there!
Saw an honest-to-goodness pair of NASA adult diapers at the National Air and Space Museum. (They're used during launch and space walks. Yikes!)

It really is a great city. Can't wait to go back and see the rest.

Total Cost: $20 for lunch at the National Museum of the American Indian.

I Will Do One Thing Today

2011-01-14T13:44:00.002-06:00

Today (and tomorrow) I am finishing up grading all of my exams. Then I'll be ready for Monday with the new semester and new blog entries. Have a good weekend!

I'm Back

2011-01-04T16:09:00.003-06:00

I'm back to blogging. What would you like to hear about?

Total Cost: $0 ... talk is cheap.

Contest: Name My Ride

2010-03-27T08:03:00.000-05:00

I'm going on a road trip! I've decided to visit my sister in DC over Spring break. Since the trip is now less than a week away, I am busy making preparations. The first thing on the do-list is simple -- name the car.

Have you ever read Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck? It's a really great book about an extended tour of America that Steinbeck took with his dog Charley. The other major character in the book is the vehicle, who Steinbeck christens Rocinante (after Don Quixote's horse). Anyway, I think it would be fun to have a name for my car, but I'm not clever enough to come up with one. So, I'm asking for your help.

Please tell me what name you think I should use and why. I'll pick my favorite, and announce the winner on Wednesday morning. The winner will recieve a US Great Seal Keychain like the one shown below.

I can't wait to hear your ideas!

Let Him Eat Cake

2010-03-23T18:49:00.007-05:00

Last week was Eliot's first birthday and we had a huge celebration. Everything went off without a hitch, but I think the best part was watching Eliot enjoy his cake.

A chocolate eclair cake is about the best thing in the world for someone who is new to solid foods. It's made with vanilla pudding, cool whip, graham crackers and chocolate frosting. All the chocolate eclair goodness while still being easy to eat. Eliot certainly seemed to approve.

Total Cost: $10 for all the ingredients. Happy birthday Mister Mister!

Irish Beef Stew

2010-03-22T18:49:00.007-05:00

At school, I am fortunate enough to share space with the computer people. Fortunate in many ways. First, they're funny people. Second, there is always someone to help me when I have a computer question. Third, the computer guy (Jeff) is a great cook and often shares his culinary creations. Last week, for St. Patrick's Day, Irish beef stew was on the menu.

Have you ever had something that was so delicious it made you pause? Well, that's what happened to me. I had quickly taken a plate and run back to my desk to eat it -- eager to multitask my lunch away. Then I took a bite and it was so good that I had to close my eyes, take a breath and savor the "clean toasted taste."

Later, upon reading the recipe, I found out what made it so delicious -- Guinness Draught and bittersweet CHOCOLATE! Brilliant!

Total Cost: I don't know what he spent, but it was well worth the money. Kind of like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. (Recipe found here.)

Do You Know What Today Is?

2010-03-17T07:19:00.000-05:00

You're right!

The Price of Beauty

2010-03-14T11:52:00.015-05:00

The other day I got a free makeover at Macy's and it cost me a fortune.

As I've mentioned earlier, I went on a field trip with the school choir last week. After the concert and a quick dinner, the students were free to go shopping for about an hour. I was hanging out with the moms and we voted to walk around in Macy's because it was too cold outside. As we sauntered past the cosmetics section, we were beset by makeup artists offering "free" make overs.

Now, I know how this works. You get a "free" make over, and possibly a "free" gift as long as you buy a certain amount of product. ... I decided to go for it. It would be worth the money to get a new foundation and give my students a good laugh. And how much could it cost? Maybe $20? No problem.

So I got powdered and puffed, shaded and glossed, bronzed and blushed and the final result was ... interesting. I chose my products and headed over to the register. The cashier made cheerful small talk while she scanned my items and wrapped them in tissue paper. Then she smiled and said, "Your total is $ &*!%#."

Total Cost: I'm too ashamed to tell you. But on the bright side, I look REALLY good.

Spring's Door Bell

2010-03-12T15:53:00.009-06:00

Spring is almost here, and there are several unmistakable signs of it's impending arrival. The snow is melting and leaving hundreds of muddy lawns all around the city, I can ride with the windows slightly down and the "door-bell bird" has started singing again.

For years I wondered what kind of bird made that whistle-y call that sounded like a doorbell. Seriously. YEARS. And then last fall, I finally figured it out. I was at the Garden Room on the East side, and they had the complete line of Audubon Stuffed Birds. This is a collection of plush birds which, when you squeeze them, make their authentic sound. I tried all of them, in hopes of identifying the elusive "door-bell" bird.

Northern Cardinal? no.
Bald Eagle? no.
Swamp Sparrow? no.
Eastern Bluebird? no.
Snowy Owl? no.
Black Capped Chickadee? YES!

Finally, I had a name and a face to put with that most unique call. So, now that spring is coming and my little neighbors have returned, I feel like I know them -- and whenever I hear them whistle, I whistle back.

Total Cost: The stuffed birds cost $9 a piece, but I didn't buy one. The satisfaction of finally knowing was good enough for me.

Rachmaninov Plays Rachmaninov

2010-03-11T16:35:00.008-06:00

I mentioned earlier about the field trip to the CSO. I forgot to mention what they played. It was Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto 2, and it was amazing. At the very beginning, the piano starts out with several bell like chords which break into a series of rolling notes that are finally accompanied by the violins -- I had chills. So beautiful! (Listen and watch here.)

During the tour of the stage we learned that the first person to play that piece in Symphony Hall was Rachmaninov himself. What would that have been like?! The day we were there, the pianist was Kirill Gerstein, and I'm sure he was just as good.

Total Cost: $0 for the live concert, $10 to download the entire piece from iTunes.

I Stood Where They Stood

2010-03-11T15:42:00.007-06:00

One of the great things about being a teacher is that you occasionally get to go on a field trip -- or at least chaperon one. Last Friday I got to go with the school choir to hear the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (at no cost to me). It was a great trip, and there were several highlights, one of which being the tour of Symphony Hall.

Shifra, our guide, showed us all the interesting nooks and crannies of the the building. We saw the room where all the pianos are kept and met a piano tuner who was too busy hammering and tightening to talk with us. We saw the dressing rooms and quiet rooms where performers can go to collect their thoughts and shake off the butterflies before a performance. We saw the back staircase that the orchestra members use to access the stage, all the railings being covered with thick padding in case someone accidentally bumps their 300-year old Stradivarius. Finally, we saw the stage.

Not only did we see the stage, but we stood on the stage and walked around a little bit. It's unbelievable the array of people that have stood right there. Some notables include Rachmaninov, Ravel, John Williams, Aaron Copland, Theodore Roosevelt, Martin Luther King jr., Judy Garland, Amelia Earhart, Bertrand Russell, Orson Welles, Harry Houdini and Barack Obama. Pretty cool.

Total Cost: $0 for everybody. The tour was free.

Report: No Heat Challenge

2010-03-10T15:48:00.008-06:00

Well, I did it ... sort of. Instead of doing the NO heat challenge, I opted for the LOW heat challenge instead. I would turn up the temperature in the early morning and right when I got home from work (just to take the edge off). Other than that, the heat stayed down, and never got above 58 degrees (which is still pretty low).

So how did I do it? How did I live in a refrigerator? How did I feel comfortable in a chilly apartment? How did I "live large" with low heat? A typical day went like this --

Wake up warm in my bed which was made up with a down comforter and two hot water bottles. (I was always impressed by how cold my nose was.)
Take a HOT shower.
Dress warmly and usually in layers -- long sleeve shirt, vest and scarf.
Turn up the heat two degrees.
Eat breakfast in front of the heating vent. (The heating vent is the closest thing I have to a crackling fire.)
Turn down the heat.
Leave for work.
Enjoy all the heated places I go to during the day.
Come home from work.
Turn up the heat two degrees.
Put on a sweater and a pair of fuzzy socks
Eat a hot dinner -- no salad.
Have a cup of warm herb tea.
Turn down the heat.
Put a blanket over my lap while I watch TV.
Boil the water for the hot water bottles and put them in the bed to warm up the sheets.
Put on my long-johns.
Read a book in bed.
Go to sleep.

So that's pretty much it, and it went so well the first week that I kept it up for the whole month of February. What do you think? Did I pass or fail?

I've Been Grading Papers

2010-03-08T22:44:00.003-06:00

I know. It's been a while. I've been so busy making a living that I've hardly had time to live large, let alone write about it! But now I'm back with stories to tell and tips to dole out. Are you still with me?

How Low Can You Go?

2010-01-27T21:27:00.006-06:00

This is a picture of me (and Jay) sitting in front of the heating vent in my apartment. It's one of my very favorite spots. I can sit there for hours -- reading books, watching TV, talking on the phone or hanging with friends. But, in spite of all that, I have decided to turn off the heat for a week.

Today I read about the no heat challenge and I am inspired to try it for one week. I already keep the temperature pretty low, but this week I'll go cold turkey (literally.) Here are the conditions of this expeiment.
* The temperature must remain set at 40 degrees. (No frozen pipes.)
* All other ways of staying warm are fair game.

I know. You're all worried that I'll turn into a block of ice, but that is not the point of the challenge. The point is to stay warm and fairly comfortable without spending the money to turn up the heat.

So that's it. One week without heat, starting ... tomorrow.

To Eat or Not To Eat

2010-01-26T16:05:00.004-06:00

Has this ever happened to you?

You're eating something really delicious and have only one bite left. As you raise that last delectable piece to your salivating mouth your arm suddenly spasms and you watch helplessly as that most delicious piece of food plummets to the floor. So ... do you eat it or not? In the moment that you are deciding, this flow chart might help (found here).

Total Cost: $0 ... waste not want not!

This weekend ...

2010-01-22T16:10:00.003-06:00

... I will be snow shoeing in Madison.

Total cost: About $3 for the gas.

Preview: The Food Stamp Dinner Party

2010-01-20T16:03:00.010-06:00

I'm on my way home to make dinner for friends -- all on my food stamp budget. Hope they like cabbage!

Preview: The Food Stamp Project

2010-01-18T19:17:00.002-06:00

Could you eat healthy, delicious, beautiful food on a "food stamp budget"? I think it is possible. Details to come.

2010-01-15T13:20:00.009-06:00

This year I resolved not to make any resolutions ... until I saw this inspiring list on another blog. What great ideas! -- finish books I start, eat good food, write letters, listen.

So, I amended my no-resolution resolution. I have decided that I will set goals for 2010, but I am going to break it up into manageable pieces. I will set two reasonable goals each month of the year. By the end of the year I will be amazing!!

So what should it be for January?

* Go walking every day

* Finish afghan for Janet

Total Cost: $0. I'll let you know how it goes.

I Was Too Busy Eating

2010-01-15T07:00:00.001-06:00

No blogging last night because I was too busy eating. Beth hosted dinner and made the most amazing pork tenderloin. I would give you the recipe, but I can't ... she made it up using culinary creativity and whatever she had in her fridge. Amazing.

If you want to try something similar, click on the picture above for a Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Orange Marmalade Glaze recipe. I'm sure it's just as good.

Calm and Relaxing

2010-01-13T17:30:00.013-06:00

Today I gave my semester exams, and now it's time to relax. I'm on my way home to take an Epsom Salts bath.

According to the Epsom Salt Council (which I didn't know existed until just now), Epsom Salts can ease stress, lower blood pressure and raise energy levels. Those all sound like things that I could really use after several weeks of exam prep, jury duty and holiday fun.

Total Cost: $6 for two boxes of of lavender infused salts. Not bad for a product that says "calm and relaxing" right on the box.

Up to Date

2010-01-12T19:58:00.003-06:00

One of the things on my wish list is a desk calendar from Linnea Design. It really is beautiful, but I've been holding out for something just as nice, but a little bit cheeper. Well, today I found a lovely little calendar over at Something's Hiding in Here, and it's FREE (with some assembly required).

According to the blurb, the print was designed with a vintage proofing press using wood and lead type (whatever that means). I guess that's what gives it the aged look -- like it's just come off a mimeograph machine.

Anyway, I think I'll put it on my bulliten board at school -- just like Laura Normandin.

Total Cost: $0 ... and today is January 12th in case you were wondering.

Madeline

2010-01-11T20:24:00.003-06:00

Well, Christmas is over, the New Year is here and everything is starting to settle back into a regular rhythm. I have finally been able to sit back, relax, and look through all the pictures I took. Here's my favorite --

My niece Madeline was visiting over the holiday and she is a hoot. She's three years old and loves to cook, read and wear pink. Also, she gets my jokes. I don't think there's anything more satisfying than getting a really good belly laugh out of a little kid.

It's gonna be a great year.

Let It Snow

2010-01-07T15:30:00.002-06:00

I'm headed out to play in the snow. Check back for a Rissie Grace update on January 11.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T22:54:00.005-06:00

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."

Luke 2:11

Silver Spoons

2009-12-17T16:58:00.007-06:00

I found it! I found the perfect gift form my three year old niece. Even at such an early age, she has developed a strong interest in cooking. She loves to chop vegetables with a butter knife, stir muffin batter until it's tough as rubber, and knead bread dough (although she calls it "squeezing" bread dough). So, when I saw that there is a new children's version of the best selling Italian cookbook The Silver Spoon, I grabbed it.

Now when she helps her mommy with lunch she can make Tuscan Minestrone Soup, Rigatoni with Meatballs or Chicken Stuffed with Marscapone. Well ... maybe she'll can start with the Banana Cream. There's time. In a couple years she'll be ready for the 1,264 page original.

Total Cost: $20 ... but right now it's 20% off at Barnes and Noble with another 10% off for members. Buon appetito!

Advent Conspiracy

2009-12-15T19:21:00.007-06:00

This video was shown today during the Advent prayer service at school. The message is great, and the cause is worthy. Please click here to watch.

Total Cost: $0 to to talk, read, play or sing. (That's a savings of 450,000,000,000!)

Give Us This Day

2009-12-14T15:00:00.007-06:00

I have been searching for a good gift to give my neighbors. The trick is, it has to be something I can make and something that can be enjoyed by all -- the retired couple in #1, the handyman in #4 and the crazy guy in #7. I finally decided on quick bread when I saw these great gift tags from Persimmon & Pink.

Now all I have to do I bake up seven loaves of Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread, and I'm done!

Total Cost: About $5 for the ingredients, and $0 for the gift tags. (I'm going to make my own.)

1 New Message

2009-12-09T20:19:00.005-06:00

To: Reader's of my blog
From: RissieGrace
Subject: Cute Movie

Hi all,
I've been at school late every night this week grading papers. While I work, I watch shows on hulu, and I found this Christmas themed one tonight.
Very funny. Had to share. Hope you can enjoy it too!
Merry Christmas Season!
xxoo,
Rissie

http://www.hulu.com/watch/113712/disney-prep-and-landing-prep-and-landing

Total Cost: $0 to break the silence while I check in homework.

Well Said

2009-12-06T17:05:00.005-06:00

I found this cartoon by Rick McKee on msnbc.com this morning, and I thought the message was particularly good ... especially in light of the topic of this blog. :)

Blindsided

2009-12-04T16:35:00.006-06:00

Last weekend I went to see “The Blind Side” and it was wonderful. I left the theater feeling happy and hopeful, thinking about all the great things that I could do to make a difference in someone else’s life. The movie obviously showed the stark contrasts between rich and poor, but it also contrasted grateful and ungrateful, patient and impatient, thoughtful and thoughtless.

One part that I found very striking was when Michael was picking up discarded popcorn after a volleyball game because he had nothing else to eat. It doesn’t take much to help someone in a situation like that. Even someone who is living large on a small income can help. Besides, happiness is the real goal of life, and happiness is not about what we have, but what we share with love.

Anyway, Ruben Navarrette apparently felt the same way about the movie and wrote about it in his column. It’s a good read – especially the part about giving his kid a paper route for Christmas.

Total Cost: $10 for the movie ticket, and in the words of Leigh Anne Tuohy, “you can thank me later.”

A Wish Fulfilled

2009-12-03T15:23:00.006-06:00

I don't know if you've noticed, but I put a wish list on this blog. It's a reminder of things that I want, but don't want to pay for quite yet. Anyway, one thing on the list was a Stanley Cooler Combo (thermos and lunch box set). I know it might sound weird for a fashionista like myself, but I love the Stanley line. There is something so American about carrying your soup in a stainless steel-double walled-vacuum insulated-rust proof bottle with a lid that doubles as a cup. And then ... if you throw in a large lunch box for all the extras like bread, cheese and cookies to share you have the right equipment to turn lunch into a feast.

So, I put it on my wish list, and guess what! My mom already had one! She picked it up at a rummage sale sometime in July -- for about $5. She saw on this blog that I wanted one, and now it's mine! Hooray!

The wish list worked! I'll have to keep it updated.

Total Cost: $6 to my mother. $5 for the set. $1 finder’s fee.

The Count Down Begins

2009-12-01T16:04:00.001-06:00

Today is December 1st, and children all over the United States are pulling out advent calendars like the one above. It’s a fun tradition that often makes the wait for Christmas even longer.

As for me, I don’t have an advent calendar, but I do have an advent activity list. My goal is to do each of the things on this list before Christmas.

1. Put up a Christmas Tree
2. Attend a Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along with Nora
3. Put up a ribbon sash for Christmas cards
4. Go ice skating
5. Hang a stocking for St. Nick’s day (December 5)
6. Go to the First Presidency Christmas Devotional
7. Watch “It’s a Wonderful Life” with friends
8. Make a wreath-like-thing for my front door
9. Give hand made gifts to neighbors
10. Drive and/or walk around to see neighborhood lights
11. Make gingerbread cookies with red hots
12. Watch “A Christmas Story” with my parents
13. Make and give out pepparkakor on Saint Lucy’s day (December 13)
14. Go to a Christmas concert
15. Send out Christmas cards
16. Have hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows
17. Tell family stories around the fireplace
18. Help out with dinner at St. Ben’s
19. Go caroling
20. See a nativity display
21. Go out and look at the stars on the longest night of the year (December 21)
22. Read the Christmas story out of the Luke 2
23. Make wheat berry pancakes for the Schows
24. Call the people I love and let them know (that I love them)

"This Christmas, mend a quarrel. Seek out a forgotten friend. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust. Write a letter. Give a soft answer. Encourage youth. Manifest your loyalty in word and deed. Keep a promise. Forgo a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Apologize. Try to understand. Examine your demands on others. Think first of someone else. Be kind. Be gentle. Laugh a little more. Express your gratitude. Welcome a stranger. Gladden the heart of a child. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. Speak your love and then speak it again." – Howard W. Hunter

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T08:20:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving ... wherever you are!

Rissie Grace is Thankful For …

2009-11-25T11:29:00.009-06:00

Thanksgiving is tomorrow and I’m spending it with my family. The various responsibilities have been doled out, and we’re each doing something that we are fairly good at. Nora is making the deviled eggs and the twice baked sweet potatoes potatoes. Mother is baking the pies and fixing the stuffing. Daddy is mashing the potatoes. Spencer is opening the can of cranberry sauce. As for me, I’m responsible for the turkey, the brussel sprouts AND setting the table.

Setting the table for thanksgiving is really one of my favorite things. It’s nice to pull out all the plates, silverware, glasses, napkins and candles that never get used at any other time. It’s also fun to make place cards, and tell people where to sit (like we’re at a wedding with 500 people). The place cards shown above are from Martha Stewart (left) and Country Living (right), and they are both very nice, but I like this idea from Blonde Designs. They put a card at each place with the person’s name and a space for them to write what they are thankful for. Even better than that, they have provided a template so you can make your own.

Now, let’s see … what am I thankful for?
· family
· friends
· faith
· job
· books
· car
· peach pie
· ikea
· a hot shower
· magazines
· a blanket right out of the dryer
· hand cream that smells like jasmine
· a laugh that makes my sides hurt
· etc. (this could go on all day)

Total Cost: $0 for a place card that reminds you to be truly thankful.

Anticipation

2009-11-18T16:22:00.004-06:00

I love the idea of Thanksgiving. Preparing a delicious meal while watching Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, setting a lovely table, remembering all our blessings, eating slowly (or slower than normal), playing some sort of game, watching some sort of game, doing dishes together and then slipping into unconsciousness after finishing a piece of pecan pie.

It’s gonna be great! What are some of your favorite things to do on Thanksgiving?

Total Cost: $0 to “look-forward-to.”

All Put Together

2009-11-16T16:10:00.005-06:00

Did you know that on National Geographics website, you can do jigsaw puzzles? All of that beautiful, award winning photography just sitting there for you to put together. A very nice alternative to solitaire or online sudoku.

Total Cost: $0 ... and you never loose a piece.

The Snack Drawer -- Before

2009-11-12T16:12:00.006-06:00

Among my friends at school, I have a reputation for having beautiful, healthy and appetizing lunches. It's all true. I like delicious food, and I try to make it look as good as it tastes. The only problem is, this has not extended to afternoon snacks.

It’s worse than it sounds. I don’t like the tasteless, prepackaged, preservative laden snack foods found at the grocery store. So, my snack drawer lies empty. But that doesn’t stop me from getting hungry and heading down to the break room to scavenge for tasteless, prepackaged, preservative laden doughnuts. I am ashamed.

To remedy this, I’ve decided to do a snack drawer overhaul. I am now on the hunt for beautiful, healthy and appetizing snacks that are also shelf stable. Do you have any ideas?

Total Cost: $5 a pound for dried apricots … it’s a start!

There's no such thing as a free lunch ...

2009-11-10T20:17:00.007-06:00

... but aparently there is such thing as a free breakfast.

Last night I got a text from Suzie -- "tomorrow there are free hotcakes and sausage @ mcdonald's from 6 - 9."

Free? Yep!! Is there a catch? Nope!!

Well, this I had to see. I pulled into the parking lot around 8:00 while on my way to parent teacher conferences, and could tell by the length of the line that I was in the right spot. When I finally got to the counter I meekly asked for the free hotcakes and sausage meal. The girl handed me a bag full of food and I was on my way. A free breakfast! sweet.

Now, I have to say that eating at McDonald's doesn't exactly meet my criteria for "living large," but it was warm and yummy and free. It could be worse.

Total Cost: $0 for a truly free breakfast.

Neat and Comely

2009-11-09T19:21:00.003-06:00

Ah fashion! It is the great dichotomy for every frugalista. How does a clever, beautiful, fashion forward woman look amazing on a small budget? There is much to be said on this subject -- and I hope to say a lot of it -- but tonight I will be brief.

Keep it clean! Remember this description of some very happy people: “they did not wear costly apparel, yet they were neat and comely.” (Two points if you know where that quote comes from.)

Total Cost: $0 to think about doing the laundry.

answer

Gotta Walk

2009-11-05T16:14:00.003-06:00

The sun is out and I'm going for a walk. See you tomorrow!

Total Cost: $0 for a dose of vitamin D.

Folded Up Nice and Neat

2009-11-04T16:52:00.006-06:00

This week in Geometry, we have been talking about the mathematics of origami. The assignment was then to make something out of paper using the the basics of geometry. The things they came up with (i.e. found online) were quite lovely. There was a lotus, an antelope, an owl, a heart, a rose and a cup (just to name a few).

Origami is so beautiful, it can be used in decorating. It could add interest to a bookshelf, window sill or table. Take the Irish Elk by Robert Lang. Wouldn't that look lovely on a shelf next to a collection of National Geographics? How hard can it be to make something like that?! All you have to do is follow the marks on the fold pattern!

Hmmm. Maybe I'll just stick to cranes.

Total Cost: $3 for a ream of paper to make 1000 cranes ... for luck!

Give Me a Lecture

2009-11-03T15:59:00.003-06:00

Anne Fadiman is one of my favorite writers. I’ve read Ex Libris a couple of times, and frequently quote from it when I’m trying to sound funny AND smart. So, when I heard that she would be speaking at MCW about her book “The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down” I knew that I had to go. (I haven’t read it yet, but I know the gist of the story.)

I like lectures and book tours. They are a great way to get involved with the community AND learn something new. Since this particular lecture was given at the medical college it was primarily directed toward members of the health care community, but even as an “outsider” I still gleaned some important points that I can apply to my own work. For example, she said that doctors should try to see the illness from the patient’s point of view. This can be done by asking “you” questions – how do you feel? what do you think caused this illness? what are you trying to improve your health? Each of these questions allow the patient to be more involved in the care process. As for myself, I can ask these questions to students to let them be more involved in the learning process – how do you feel about class? what do you not understand? what are you doing to understand it better?

After the lecture, there was reception where I discussed with friends and had Ms. Fadiman sign my notebook. All in all, a good Monday night.

Total Cost: $0 for pearls of wisdom and three cookies (yes, I had three).

Major/Minor

2009-11-02T15:51:00.003-06:00

When I started college my parents told me not to “major in minors.” I think that was good advice for choosing a career, but not for choosing food. In fact, when it comes to food, I think it’s a good idea to do the reverse. That is, go big on vegetables, grains, etc. and go light on steak, chicken, lamb, etc. Not only is it cheaper to eat this way, but I’m pretty sure it’s better for you.

This past weekend I found some brussel sprouts at the farmers market, and roasted them for dinner. Pretty good if I do say so myself.

Total Cost: About $1 per serving when you make the "side dish" the "main dish."

What I Wore

2009-10-30T17:32:00.005-05:00

I was "the sky" for Halloween.

I don't know about you, but I think the resemblance is striking.

Total Cost: $0 to wear what was already in my closet and give it a clever name. (Thanks for the idea Gwen!)

A Carafe By Any Other Name

2009-10-29T16:55:00.004-05:00

I really do like beautiful things. I like things that add a touch of elegance to my life of protractors and staple removers. That’s the reason that I drink water out of the carafe that sits on my desk.

I wanted a water carafe ever since I saw Katherine Hepburn using one in the movie Adam’s Rib (that woman could make anything look good). I think it gives an air of sophistication and refinement – whether it’s sitting on a work desk, a restaurant table or a bedside stand. (A definite improvement on a Dasani bottle with the label ripped off.) So anyway, last year I finally bought one (on sale) and it has been a fixture on my desk ever since.

I was pretty proud of my tasteful beverage service … until today. A student finally got up the nerve and asked “um … why do you drink your water out of a vase?” ouch. It’s a carafe! A CARAFE! Oh well, Katherine would like it.

Total Cost: $17.50 for a touch of class … no matter what my students think.

My Home is My Castle

2009-10-28T21:31:00.006-05:00

A few years ago I learned that Balmoral Castle – the vacation home of the British Royal Family – has no central heating. So to stay warm on those cold Scottish nights they sleep with a hot water bottle. So do I!!

On cold nights in Milwaukee, I use two hot water bottles. The first one goes down by my feet and the second one is clutched to my chest like a teddy bear. I sleep nice and warm, while the rest of my empty apartment freezes. Zzzzz.

Total Cost: About $0.25 to heat the water give myself the royal treatment.

The Difference

2009-10-27T19:57:00.004-05:00

Jean Chatzky recently wrote a book called “The Difference: How Anyone Can Prosper in Even the Toughest Times.” Or as I read it -- “The Difference: How Anyone Can Prosper on Almost Any Salary.”

In the first chapter, she talks about four different types of people – the wealthy, the financially comfortable, the paycheck-to-paychecks and the further-in-debtors. As I looked over the criteria for being in each group, I discovered that I am somewhere between being financially comfortable and paycheck-to-paycheck. That is, I spend less than I earn but I don’t have $240,000 in investable assets.

Well, that’s nice, but what can I do to change? What can I do so that I can truly be financially comfortable? Well, as luck would have it, the point of the book is to teach people what they can do to change their financial caste. To this end she gives a list of twenty indicators that wealthy people generally share. The more of the indicators you have, the better off you are financially. So, I am working on my indicators. So far I’ve got eleven out of twenty. That’s pretty good. Right?

Total Cost: $16.47 on Amazon for a financial personality test, or $0 at your local library.

R

2009-10-26T11:45:00.009-05:00

I think by now it’s obvious that I like free stuff. I think it may also be obvious that I like quality free stuff. Well, I found something today that is quality, free AND beautiful. How can you go wrong?

Jessica Hische is a designer, illustrator and typographer who has been making hand-crafted decorative initial caps to be used to beautify blogs all over the world. The only thing she asks is that you give her, Jessica Hische, credit. Not a problem!

Of course, making a beautiful blog isn’t my only reason for liking these hand-crafted decorative initial caps by Jessica Hische. I think they would also make a lovely alphabet book for a certain pre-pre-schooler I know.

Total Cost: $0 to make my blog look like a page out of Cicero. Thank you Jessica Hische!

The Supper Club

2009-10-23T20:00:00.007-05:00

"What should I make for dinner tonight?" It’s the age old dilemma. Well, last night I didn’t have to answer that question … because of the supper club. Several weeks ago, I was having dinner with some friends and it was so yummy and so fun and so friendly that we decided to do dinner together every week. There was some trouble getting started, but I think we're getting better.

Last night was Beth’s turn and she did great! On the menu was chicken parmesan with mashed potatoes and a glass of kiwi-strawberry-cranberry juice. It was all very delicious and filling. After eating, we played the “draw-a-pig-personality-test” game -- apparently, I am a detail oriented optimist. It was a lot of and I can’t wait ‘til next week. Thanks Beth!

Total Cost: $15 when it’s my turn. $0 when it’s someone else’s turn.

To Warm Up Cold Hands

2009-10-22T16:51:00.004-05:00

It’s cold today … and rainy too. I feel absolutely chilled to the bone. I think that means it’s time to start a new crocheting project. What should it be? A scarf? A pot holder? A blanket for my bed? The afghan that I started for Janet two years ago? Whatever it turns out to be, it will be nice to have my hands busy while I watch TV. Crocheting is one of those few activities that requires no brain power but where you can still produce something beautiful and useful. It's the perfect activity for a cold day when you're done thinking.

I've decided. It’ll be a blanket for my bed. (Sorry Janet.)

Total Cost: $4 per skein for the good yarn. $1 per skein for the bad yarn. $0 per skein for the yarn in my Mom’s attic.

A Pick Me Up

2009-10-21T19:37:00.005-05:00

The other day on Regis and Kelly, Anderson Cooper commented that he does not drink coffee. He said that he finds the best beverage to get him going in the morning is a tall glass of ice water.

I must agree. Every morning, first thing I do is have a tall glass of cold water to get my blood flowing. Yum! Not only do I drink water in the morning, but water has always been my beverage of choice. It is nature’s perfect cocktail, and it goes with everything. Clean. Clear. Crisp. Cool. Free. Water.

Total Cost: $0 for my morning java. (It sure beats the $4.50 for Starbucks’ Venti Mocha Frappuccino.)

Let Me Put It On My List

2009-10-20T18:55:00.005-05:00

I love lists. All sorts of lists. Do lists. Shopping lists. Song lists. Wish lists. They’re all great. They help me to organize my life and keep things tidy. So, in that spirit, I have devised a list for this blog. From here on out, I will try to organize my thought on frugality to fit into one or more of the following categories.

* To eat/drink
* To make
* To do
* To see
* To wear
* To buy
* To live-in (housekeeping stuff)
* To read
* To give
* To celebrate
* To appreciate
* To be

Have I left anything out? Please, please let me know if there’s some other category that you think I should include.

What would you do ...

2009-10-19T15:41:00.006-05:00

... for a free t-shirt?

I am currently teaching an engineering class, and it has definatly been a challenge. Fun ... but a challenge. I feel like I never have enough time to find activities, buy and prepare supplies, contact speakers, grade papers AND teach my other classes.

There are upsides though. I get to be a part of student ideas, creations, conversations and competitions. PLUS, I get some pretty sweet free stuff. Like the t-shirt I got at the Marquette Celebrates Women in Engineering field trip we took last week. The conference was good and I got some great ideas. Now I can wear the t-shirt with pride.

Total Cost: $0 for t-shirt ... but I had to teach engineering to get it.

A Bowl of Popcorn

2009-10-16T15:31:00.005-05:00

So. It’s Friday and I am worn out. Absolutely worn out. All I want to do is sit on my bed with a bowl of popcorn and relax. Maybe I’ll watch a movie, or read a book, or do a crossword puzzle, or flip through a magazine, or listen to music, or call a friend. Whatever I do though, it will have to be done while I sit on my bed with a bowl of popcorn.

I feel more relaxed already.

Total Cost: Not even $1 for the popcorn.
(munch, munch, munch)

Pay What You Can

2009-10-15T20:15:00.005-05:00

Four of my favorite words: pay what you can. The Milwaukee Rep has a pay-what-you-can night for each of their plays. The idea is a great one. For the actors, it’s a full on dress rehersal. For the public, it’s a cheap nights entertainment.

I just barely missed seeing “the Year of Magical Thinking” last night. Boo. Oh well, I’ll read the book and catch the next play for sure!

Total Cost: $5 suggested contribution. (The ticket are $25 at regular price.)

Zucchini Season

2009-09-03T15:15:00.005-05:00

It's late summer, and there is zucchini everywhere. Everywhere! People are giving the stuff away there's so much of it. So, what better to eat when you're on a tight budget? Thank you summer!

My favorite zucchini dishes are grilled zucchini, stuffed zucchini and zucchini bread. In fact, tonight I'm going to make and freeze a bunch of zucchini muffins to snack on at school. Do you have any favorite zucchini recipes? I would love to try them.

recipe found here

Total Cost: $0 for the zucchini ... if you know the right people.

Bastille Days

2009-07-14T23:05:00.008-05:00

This past weekend was Bastille Days here in Milwaukee. It’s a street festival that is celebrates all things French. My mom and I went down to hear the dueling pianos, and then got taken in with all the yummy food, hot shopping and the fantastic people watching – there were beignets, fortune tellers, roving revolutionaries and a giant model of the Eiffel Tower. Very fun.

Total Cost: $0 to get in, $15 to eat. Vive le Milwaukee!

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T10:25:00.006-05:00

photo found here

Eating Out

2009-06-30T13:39:00.006-05:00

Now that summer is here, eating out has taken on a whole new meaning. It involves packing a lunch, bringing a good book, finding the right park, choosing a good bench and relaxing.

Yesterday I went to Big Bay Park. The park itself is relatively small, but the view made up for that.

Total Cost: $4 for lunch from Beans and Barley. $0 for the table from the Milwaukee Parks.

Are You Hot Too?

2009-06-23T22:23:00.003-05:00

Hot, hot, hot. It was so hot today. I went to school to work on lesson plans, but I didn't get very much done. It was so stuffy, I felt like I was moving in slow motion. Then I went home and took a nap. I woke up with a heat headache and sweaty palms. Grrrr. Summer has certainly arrived. I definitely need some fans in my apartment. Also, it's time to start carrying my swimming suit and a towel with me at all times, just in case I need to quickly stop by the lake, or make a stop at the local swimming pool.

My Theatrical Debut

2009-06-22T20:36:00.004-05:00

This summer, the school is putting on a production of "Honk" a musical centered around the story of the Ugly Duckling. It was designed to include the total school community. That is, all were invited to audition -- current students, future students, alums, parents, faculty, staff -- everybody! So I figured this was the chance I had been waiting for and tried-out. And guess what! I made it!

I beat out an art teacher, the IT lady and the principal for the role of Graylag, a militant goose who volunteers the small goose army to help Ugly find his home. It's a small part, but fraught with meaning. ;) Anyway, I have lines to say and sing, I do a little dancing, and I get to dress up like a goose. Pretty sweet.

Total Cost: $0. I don't pay them, and they don't pay me. Everybody's happy.

What Shall I Wear?

2009-06-03T16:07:00.007-05:00

Tomorrow night I'm going to the Grande Finale of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and I'm super excited. The tickets include coplimentary appetizers before the show, a performance and discussion of Brahms Symphony No. 1 and complimentary desserts after the show. Not bad for a Thursday night. But ...

... what am I going to wear?! It's times like this that I wish I had a causual/dressy/comfortable/classic dress to fall back on. But dresses like that are not easy to find. Maybe I'll have to make my own. I kind of like the blue one in the picture above. What do you think?

Total Cost: To make my own dress? I don't know. I've never done it.

C-R-O-S-S-W-O-R-D

2009-05-28T14:09:00.006-05:00

I think I read something, somewhere, sometime about crossword puzzles being good for your brain. You know -- protecting against dymentia, increasing IQ -- that sort of stuff. That may be true, but I just do crosswords because they're fun. I like having one at my desk throughout the day. I can look at in my spare time and at lunch. A lot of times it helps me to get my mind working again if I have come to some sort of mathematical or pedagogical impasse. That's a brain benefit isn't it?

Lately I've been doing the puzzle from the LA Times -- sufficiently challenging, and free every day.

Total Cost: $0 for a brain boost. What's a five letter word for "collar extension"?

The True Spirit of Memorial Day

2009-05-22T12:44:00.005-05:00

When I was going to school in Utah, I was always impressed by the number of people who visited the cemeteries on Memorial Day. Every grave was had flowers and/or a flag. In fact, when I was seaching flickr looking for a picture to represent this, I found the one above, which was taking in Heber, UT.) It was really impressive. It reminded me of the reason that we have Memorial Day.

cartoon found here

Funny Books

2009-05-19T15:26:00.001-05:00

In Friday's Wall Street Journal there was an interesting installment of "Dear Book Lover" (an advice column for readers). Someone had written in with the following question/request:

"Everywhere I look there is bad news. Not uplifting. Negative. Sad. There seems to be a competition going on to see who can deliver the worst news of the day. Let's have a column on funny books to be read and enjoyed -- with a long list."

I couldn't agree more. We have enough sad. We need more funny. In that same spirit, I have submitted three of my favorites.

1. Jeeves in the Morning -- pure farce. How can you say the words "Steeple Bumpleigh" and not smile?

2. Ex Libris -- smart, bookish humor. My favorite chapter is about the 'odd shelf.'

3. All Creatures Great and Small -- not so much funny as cheerful.

Total Cost: $0 at your local library for a good chuckle.

Kicking the Habit

2009-05-18T15:16:00.001-05:00

English Toffee. One of my favorite candies. I have always liked it, but lately it's been getting out of control. It started in Maine when Janet and I would go shopping together and pick up some candy at the check out line. I would always get an English Toffee candy bar (which will remain nameless). Since then, I would get one every few days after work. Then it was up to every day. THEN, last week, Kopps was serving English-Toffee-candy-bar custard (I got two scoops). This was starting to get out of hand. Where would it end?!

On Friday it came to a head. I stopped by the drug store for my English toffee candy bar fix and decided to pick up an extra three or four to keep in my desk. By the time I went to bed, they were ALL gone.

bleh.

Since then I haven't been able to look at another English toffee candy bar.

Total Cost: $2.50 worth of candy bars. Small price to pay to get my life back!

Air Travel

2009-05-15T16:13:00.013-05:00

On Wednesday, Nora flew home from visiting Janet in Maine. From what I understand, the Maine visit was great and the flight home was terrible. It’s the same old story – long lines, delays, no leg room, lost luggage, hotel vouchers, overpriced airport food – and all this while she carried her infant son.

Strangely enough, I seem to remember when flying was a comfortable and enjoyable experience. I remember larger seats, real meals, pillows and blankets and (just once) a hot washcloth. Was it ever really like that? Are my childhood memories deceiving me?

Well apparently, there WAS a time when air travel was enjoyable, comfortable and classy – according to the new book Flying Across America. If the stories are true, people used to dress up to fly, and while aboard they ate hot meals with real forks and knives (knives!).

I think part of what makes flying today such a pain is that we are often comparing it to how things used to be. Maybe the best option is to realize that it won’t ever be like that again, and find ways to be comfortable and classy in spite of it. Just my opinion.

Total Cost: $45 for the book (which I haven't bought)

Planning to Plan

2009-05-14T17:10:00.001-05:00

Well. Memorial Day is coming up, and I have decided that I would like to go camping over that weekend. When I say camping, I mean that I would like to do some hiking, some swimming, some campfire sitting by ... stuff like that. It's still in the planning-on-planning stage, but right now it sounds fun. Amazingly enough, I got the idea from this hilarious Top Gear challenge. Hilarious.

click here to watch

Total Cost: $0 ... so far.

SPACE: the final frontier

2009-05-13T16:39:00.001-05:00

So, this past weekend I saw the new Star Trek movie and I thought it was great. The characters were pretty well developed and the CGI stuff was kept to a minimum (or maybe they're getting better at it). There was pleanty of action for people who like action, and plenty of plot for people who like plot. There was even some quality humor.

Watching this prequel gave me a renewed interest in watching the original Star Trek episodes (which I had never seen). I was curious to see where these characters and plot points came from. So, last night I sat down with a cup of tea and a stack of papers to grade and watched two episodes on youtube.

They were hilarious. The costumes, the hair, the makeup, the dialogue, the computers, the "special" effects. Didn't they realize (in 1966) that astronauts weren't using microfiche?! Funny, funny, funny. I would definitely recommend!

click here to watch

Total Cost: $7.00 for the matinee. Not bad for a weeks worth of entertainment.

Under the Weather

2009-05-11T21:15:00.000-05:00

Sick today. Chills and no appetite. Left school early. Slept all afternoon. Feeling better.

Gift Giving

2009-05-10T22:59:00.001-05:00

I love giving gifts. It’s an exciting challenge to watch and listen to a person, trying to discern what would most surprise and please them. For example when I was in Maine, I saw my niece ask over and over again to play with the shovel. So, when I was downtown, I found her a bucket set, complete with a mini shovel and a hand rake. It was a big hit, as evidenced by the following pictures.

The same thing happened this mother’s day. I tried to think of a gift that would be extra special but wouldn’t need to be dusted or cooked. Finally, I came up with something perfect, and it was VERY well received. I don’t want to say what it was, but here’s a hint:

Any guesses?

Happy Mother’s Day Mom! xxoo

Total Cost: $0 and three hours a week.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T18:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Mother's Day Mother!

(picture to come)

Prayer in School

2009-05-08T16:30:00.001-05:00

As most of you know, I teach at a Catholic School. Twice a day prayer is said over the loud speaker. (This could also be a scripture reading or inspirational poem or something like that.) I always like the reflections that are read, and since the ones giving the prayer/thought are faculty volunteers, I signed up – even though I’m not Catholic.

As some of you know, I have already been called upon to deliver the prayer/reflection twice, and both times it didn’t go so well. It’s not that I don’t know how to say a prayer or read a scripture, it’s just that I forget. I’m always standing in my classroom at the beginning of second hour thinking “oooo, someone forgot it was their turn” until I get a call telling me to get my butt down to the main office. These stories are good ones and I would be happy to share them with you, but here’s what happened today.

As none of you know, today my number was up again. Fortunately, I have known about this since Monday and have had a chance to prepare. I chose to read D&C 88:118-120. I love that scripture and how it talks about studying and learning (I’m a teacher to the core). I was ready. So, this morning I got to school, made some copies, ate my orange and chatted with the librarian. During first hour I gave a test, graded papers and answered homework questions. When the bell rang, I stood there blissfully waiting for my next class to come in – blissfully until the phone rang … I had forgotten AGAIN! … Later one of my students said she knew it had been my turn for prayer when she saw me racing down the stairs. Sigh. At least I was prepared this time.

…Seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith. Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God; That your incomings may be in the name of the Lord; that your outgoings may be in the name of the Lord; that all your salutations may be in the name of the Lord, with uplifted hands unto the Most High.

A Free Lunch!

2009-05-06T10:59:00.001-05:00

Oprah is giving away lunch at KFC. All you have to do is go here to print off the coupon. Unfortunatly, my printer isn't working, so I won't be joining you. But please, enjoy all that grilled goodness for me!

Total Cost: $0 -- if you can acually get the coupon.

How To Make a May Day Basket

2009-05-01T20:08:00.003-05:00

I have a confession. I have never made or given a May Day basket. For those of you who don’t know, the “May-Day-Basket-Ritual” goes like this: get a basket and fill it with flowers, hang it on a friend’s doorknob, ring the door bell, run. (If you get caught, you’re supposed to get a kiss.) What a charming tradition! It seems like something that I would do faithfully each year – I love anything that involves spring, flowers and gift giving. The problem is, May 1st always sneaks up on me, and then I feel like I don’t have enough time to create something really memorable. But this year I decided things would be different! Even though I forgot it was May Day until this morning, I had to give a May Day basket to at least one person. Turns out, it wasn’t that hard. All I had to do was:

1. Roll

2. Staple
3. Cut

4. Buy flowers

5. Deliver

Pretty easy. Next year I might give out two baskets.

Cost: $7.00 for paper and flowers. Worth every penny.

Happy May Day!

2009-05-01T10:44:00.003-05:00

picture found here.

My New Treadmill

2009-04-29T21:24:00.001-05:00

Well, I did it. I finally dumped the gym membership in favor of a more economical option. Now, instead of hitting the treadmill, I'll be hitting the pavement (a lot). This is great. I’ll be saving money while I more fully enjoy scenes like the one above … and the ones below. Milwaukee really is a pretty city.

This sure beats running in place while watching cable news in a room that smells like socks.

Total Cost: 70¢ worth of gas driving to and from the lake.

Spring Break 2009

2009-04-08T14:55:00.001-05:00

What sort of destination says Spring Break to you? Miami? Cancun? Jamaica? How about Portland, Maine?

Well, that’s were I’m headed tomorrow … the land of lobsters and lighthouses … and I can’t wait. You're probably asking why I would go north when most people will be heading south. Well, I'm going to visit Cameron and Janet …

… and Madeline and James.

Who needs sand, sun and surf anyway?

While I Was Away

2009-04-03T14:58:00.001-05:00

It’s been a little while since I have updated this blog, but I have a good excuse (actually several of them). There was illness, work and writers block. But most importantly, there was a new nephew!

Eliot Arthur was born on March 12 and has been quite a distraction ever since.

As fun as it is to hold Eliot and gaze upon his loveliness, it was also very important to help out his parents. Supporting a new mother isn’t always the easiest job. Fortunately, there was this list that originated with Gloria Lemay which came in really handy. I think between my parents and myself, we hit everything on the list (except #8 of course).

1. Buy toilet paper, milk and beautiful whole grain bread.

2. Buy a new garbage can with a swing top lid and 6 pairs of black cotton underpants (women's size____).

3. Make a big supper salad with feta cheese, black Kalamata olives, toasted almonds, organic green crispy things and a nice homemade dressing on the side. Drop it off and leave right away. Or, buy frozen lasagna, garlic bread, a bag of salad, a big jug of juice, and maybe some cookies to have for dessert. Drop it off and leave right away.

4. Come over at about two in the afternoon, hold the baby while I have a hot shower, put me to bed with the baby and then fold all the piles of laundry that have been dumped on the couch, on beds or in the room corners. If there's no laundry to fold yet, do some.

5. Come over at l0 AM, and make me eggs, toast and a 1/2 grapefruit. Clean my fridge and throw out everything you are in doubt about. Don't ask me about anything; just use your best judgment.

6. Put a sign on my door saying "Dear Friends and Family, Mom and baby need extra rest right now. Please come back in 7 days but phone first. All donations of casserole dinners would be most welcome. Thank you for caring about this family."

7. Come over in your work clothes and vacuum and dust my house and then leave quietly. It's tiring for me to chat and have tea with visitors but it will renew my soul to get some rest knowing I will wake up to clean, organized space.

8. Take my older kids for a really fun-filled afternoon to a park, zoo or Science World and feed them healthy food.

9. Come over and give my husband a two-hour break so he can go to a coffee shop, pub, hockey rink or some other R&R that will delight him. Fold more laundry.

10. Make me a giant pot of vegetable soup and clean the kitchen completely afterwards. Take a big garbage bag and empty every trash basket in the house and reline with fresh bags.

Mother and baby are doing fine.

The Home Library

2009-03-01T19:39:00.001-06:00

I love to read and I love books. These are actually two different things. Loving to read is about the words on the page. Loving books is about the pages themselves. What I mean is, I like the way books feel, look and smell. I like the art work on the cover. I like the way they look fitted together on the shelf.

Anyway, I love to read and I love books. The problem is, I can buy books faster than I can read them. I even have a couple book shelves dedicated to holding books that I have, but haven’t read.

So, in March I am going to commit to not buying any books, and reading a few of those that I have been meaning to read. (This project might even spill over into April.)

Total Cost: $0 – plus what I have already spent. :)

Fat Tuesday / Shrove Tuesday

2009-02-24T21:07:00.003-06:00

Mardi Gras. It’s the day before Lent when everybody goes on one last binge before starting the fast. There are floats, feathers and beads … drinking, dancing and singing … reveling, rioting and debauchery.

Not really my scene. Until I heard about …

... Shrove Tuesday. This is a version of Mardi Gras popular in Ireland and the United Kingdom, and it’s celebrated by eating pancakes. In fact, it is often just called Pancake Day. PANCAKE DAY!! Now that’s a holiday that I can get behind. In honor of this auspicious occasion, IHOP is serving free all you can eat pancakes until close. Wa-hoo! So after school, it was dinner time.

My mom and I waited 30 minutes for a table. No problem though. I graded papers while she gabbed with strangers. Soon enough we were seated and got right down to the pancakes – along with a side of bacon, milk and “pure squeezed” orange juice.

The pancakes went quickly. Burp.

On the way out, we ran into Triniti and company who were also out celebrating.

Happy Pancake Day!

Total Cost: $5 for the bacon and beverages.

Let Me Check My Calendar

2009-02-19T21:55:00.001-06:00

About a week ago, on the way home from school, I stopped by the grocery store for milk, the book store for a magazine, and then headed straight home where I had a light supper, did a crossword puzzle, took a bath and went to be early. I felt great! …

Until the next day. That night while I was so blithely relaxing, I missed an extremely important appointment. I had no excuse. I just forgot. I knew then -- it was time for a calendar.

I needed a calendar with some very specific qualities:
* It needed to be small enough to take everywhere.
* It needed to be small on art, large on writing space.
* It needed to have space for daily appointments and room for do-lists, shopping-lists, and idea-lists.
* It needed to be cheap.

So here is what I found.
At the drugstore I found a small mead brand notebook. The only color they had was orange which was unfortunate … until I decided to supplement with a Rhodia notebook of similar size.

So, now I'll never forget another extremely important appointment – unless I forget to write it down.

Total cost: $10 for calendar, notebook and pen

Up, Up and Away

2009-02-16T15:42:00.001-06:00

Well, I did it. I climbed the stairs at the U.S. Bank building to raise money for the America Lung Association. And … it wasn’t so bad.

After several weeks of “training” I was ready to go. (I prepared by taking the stairs at school instead of the elevator.) The morning of, I took my water bottle and envelope of donations, picked up my sister -- who was going along as moral support -- and headed downtown.

When we got there, we were directed to take the elevator to lobby – which I thought was sort of ironic.

In the lobby, I turned in my donations, picked up my t-shirt and got my number. Miss Waukesha signed me in. How great/funny is that?

After a brief warm-up, I was off to the start. They had us line up in bib order, because they were starting us in waves according to how fast or slow we might be. So they let us go in groups of ten, and then we made our way to the basement. I probably would have gotten lost, but there were volunteers all along the way to point us in the right direction.

Finally in the basement, we again lined up in bib order where they let us start up the stairs one by one in ten second intervals. I had to laugh at the countdown (shown below). The start guy counted down very deliberately “ 5 … 4 … 3 … 2 … 1 … GO!” and then the person would saunter to the steps and start up … very … slowly. Maybe earlier in the day there was a mad dash to start, but not with this group.

At last it was my turn to start.

ouch. ouch. ouch.

My legs were on fire, my mouth was dry and my back ached … and I was only up to the fourth floor. So, I didn’t start out well, but after about seven stories, the pain subsided and I began to enjoy myself (really). One thing that helped was looking for my name. They had put up a piece of paper for each participant with their name and a motivational message. Unfortunately, they ran out of names half way up. Then there was nothing but stairwell to look at.

The other climbers were really fun to talk to. I met one lady – Barb – an we walked together for a couple minutes. She kept telling me that she wasn’t competitive and that she was going to stop and rest as often as she needed to, after all, there was no reason to kill herself. I thought that was a pretty sensible philosophy – especially since we had to sign a waiver saying that we wouldn’t sue if we did die. (Yes I know I look awful in this picture ... that's because I felt awful.)

At last I could see the end. I made it! I could just see it in my mind – walking through the door onto the observation deck, helping myself at a banana and bagel bar, laughing about the experience with other climbers.

No such luck. I came through the door, was handed a medal and a bottle of water then steered immediately through another door into a boiler room. From there, straight back to the freight elevator and back down to the lobby. (sigh) Not the most romantic end to a stair climb, but it makes for a good story.

So that was it. Not too bad. I met up with Nora in the lobby where I showed off my medal and got a snack. Also, I spent a few minutes chatting with some firefighters who were about to head up the stair in full gear. Yikes.

On the way to the car I ran into Ali (one of my students). She was just on her way in. And so the process whole process starts over again. It was a great morning.

I ♥ Valentines Day

2009-02-13T10:03:00.003-06:00

Black*Eiffel

Actually, I am not really a huge fan of Valentines Day – as far a romance goes. But I do like its creative side. I like the idea of making cards and gifts out of things that are just lying around the house and then giving them away anonymously (of course).

Here are some crafty type ideas I found on line.

Design Mom

So, I picked one of these ideas and made it using stuff I already had around the apartment – I just had to buy glue. So if you get a mysterious Valentine, it might be from me!

Total Cost:

$1 for the glue

Mission Day

2009-02-11T22:18:00.001-06:00

Last Friday was “Mission Day” for the faculty and staff at school. This is a day set aside every year for us to focus on the mission of the school. Sometimes this is done through classes, sometimes through lectures and sometimes through group discussion. But this year was different. This year they had us go out to one of ten charities and do service for a day. Some of the places we had to choose from were the Sojourner Truth House, Repairs of the Breach, St. Vincent DePaul, etc. You have probably already guessed that I went to Sojourner Truth House.

The Sojourner Truth House is a shelter for women and children who are victims of domestic violence. They have housing facilities as well as support and education programs for the women. For the children, there are on site activities and a day-care-type of service for those too young to go to school.

We (my coworkers and I) spent the better part of the day in the children’s area playing with four super cute kids. We read books, ate snacks, built block towers and danced to Miley Cyrus music. The kids were great – friendly, energetic, happy. One little boy had the greatest laugh – it was part laugh, part squeal of delight. One of the girls kept calling to me to see what she was doing – since she couldn’t remember my name, she would just say “hey you in the brown shirt ….”

I have to admit that I felt a little guilty. We had come to work but ended up playing the whole day. But then I realized – if we play with the children, then the ladies who usually play with them could get some other important projects done. That made me feel better. We were serving the people who serve others.

So, it was a great day. GREAT. I’m so glad that I work for an organization that values service so highly.

For more information on Sojourner Truth, and why it is so appropriate to have a women's shelter named for her, visit this website.

Membership Has It’s Privileges

2009-02-10T19:58:00.001-06:00

The other night I went to an opening at the Milwaukee Art Museum. Actually, I went with Marisa, because she is a member of the museum, and the event was free to members and their guests. The whole thing was FAN-tastic. The artist was Jan Lievens whose story I found rather interesting.

Jan Livens was a Dutch painter who lived at the same time and in the same area as Rembrandt -- they even studied under the same master. Lievens work was known for being very progressive and highly varied. In fact, many experts argue that Lievens was the initiator of some artistic developments that were later attributed to Rembrandt. Lievens also had a special ability to paint faces and became a highly sought after portrait artist. He spent much of his career traveling around Europe painting commissions for royalty. I heard one docent say that all of his traveling might be the reason why he was not well know after he died -- he didn't stay in one place long enough to get a real following, whereas Rembrandt did. Anyway, that's pretty much what I know about him. If you're interested, there's a lot more information on the museums website.

So here’s how the evening went. When we got there, people were mingling enjoying the music being played by high school and elementary students. They weren’t perfect, but they were very cute.

Here is Marisa enjoying the ambiance.

Since we couldn’t take pictures inside, I got this picture just before going into the gallery. (The following four pictures can from the museum’s website.)

One of Lievens specialties was portraits. This is "Boy in Cape and Turban" and I have to admit that it is pretty good. I wonder what I would look like if Lievens painted my portrait.

The model for this painting of a lute player was none other that Rembrandt himself.

This is a painting of Prince Charles Louis and his tutor, but Lievens “dressed them up” as the young Alexander the Great with his tutor Aristotle. This was one of my favorites – the prince's cape shimmers. Beautiful. (Also, look at the size of the book he’s reading.)

This piece is a representation of Samson and Delilah. Wow. That is not how I would have pictured the biblical seductress. I guess beauty really is in the eye of the beholder.

Marisa left early to go to a class, so I wandered around the gallery alone for quite a while. After I emerged from the exhibit and made a short stop in the gift shop, I found the most beautiful appetizer bar -- complimentary of course.

I had … this stuff.

After attending a lecture, I stopped to pose with the artist.

Jan Lievens – self portrait.

Total Cost: $0
Membership really does have its privileges.

Thanks Marisa!

Getting Ready for Valentines Day

2009-02-09T22:42:00.001-06:00

On Valentines Day, I am going to be participating in "Climb Wisconsin" to help raise money for the American Lung Assoccation. That means I am going to take the stairs to the top of the US Bank building. So this past week I have been preparing for it by going up and down the stairs at Atwater Beach (ouch). It's gonna be great!

Would you like to make a donation?

Ode to a Fish Fry

2009-01-26T19:03:00.001-06:00

In Milwaukee, the most popular way to welcome the weekend is to attend a fish fry. It really is a tradition in this city, as evidenced by the cover of the most recent issue of Milwaukee Magazine.

What is a fish fry? As I understand it, fish fries started as a Lenten observance among Catholics when they abstained from meat each Friday. It has since morphed into a year round secular activity, community pastime and defining feature of Milwaukee (and most of Wisconsin). Go to any local restaurant or tavern on a Friday, and you will find fish on the menu.

Now, what to expect at a typical Milwaukee fish fry. First – no matter where you go there will be LOTS of people. It’s likely that you will have to wait in a long line surrounded by business people, students, factory workers and families with little children. The wait is fine though because everyone is in a good mood. Second – seating is often at a large table and you will probably sit with total strangers. No problem, it's part of the fun. Third – the food. There’s fish (perch, walleye, cod), potato (mashed, pancake, french fried), bread (rye, white) and coleslaw. Fourth – the entertainment is always quality (even if it’s a little hokey) and sometimes there’s dancing.

So … with all of this in mind, the following pictures are of last Friday when I went with Nora and Spencer to Lakefront Brewery for their Friday Fish Fry.

I had to wait for "my party" before being seated. This is how Nora and Spencer found me, just inside the door.

The polka band. Imagine us eating while singing the refrain "E-I-E-I-E-I-O." I'm laughing just writing about it.

There were lots of people out dancing ...

... but Nora and Spencer preferred to listen.

At last the food came, and it was very good. (I had the perch with potato pancakes.)

Done eating, Nora and I posed in front of some Cream City Brick that the building is made out of.

Good night Milwaukee! See you next Friday!

It Might As Well Be Spring

2009-01-11T17:01:00.001-06:00

On Tuesday, I was finishing up some school work, when I got a text message from Marilyn ...

I am going to bundle up and go for a walk by the lake.
If any of you would like to come meet me at McKinley Marina at 7.

My first thought was “burrrr.”
My second thought was “I have a lot of work to do.”
My third thought was “I’m on my way!”

Some people might think it’s crazy to go for a walk on a cold, snowy night. In fact, friends of mine from Arizona and Nevada have asked me very seriously how I handle living through Wisconsin winters. I always remind them that I wear a coat when I go outside. So that’s what I did … put on a coat and a hat and mittens with gloves inside. Then I went for a walk. It was fun, even though it was VERY cold. When we passed North Point Light House and I stopped to take a picture and it took me 10 minutes for my hands to recover. Plus there was lots of ice on the sidewalk that was covered with fine snow, so there were a few spills. But all in all, it was nice to get out and get some fresh air … even though it was only 25°.

Ready to go!

My picture of North Point Light House. It was cold, and I didn't have the energy to make it look nice. Fortunately ...

... there's flickr. This is just how it looked that night except there was snow.

MSO Mondays

2009-01-08T16:17:00.001-06:00

The first Monday of every month is MSO Monday at Alterra (a local coffee shop). They invite a small group from the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra to perform at one of their locations around the city. I went for the first time the other night, and it was fabulous – on several levels.

First: Location

This month’s mini-concert was held at the Alterra Foundry in the Fifth Ward. The building was originally the Kramer International Foundry, but has now been converted into offices, etc. The coffee shop was designed in a post-industrial style in deference to the buildings original purpose and also to Milwaukee’s blue collar heritage. The effect is very nice.

Second: Food

I got a turkey club sandwich. The presentation was lovely, and I would have taken a picture, but I was really hungry, and it was yummy and …

Third: The Music

Lots of coffee shops have live music, but how many have a string quartet playing Rossini’s “Six Sonatas”?! I hesitate to say that it was enchanting … but it really was. People were gathered around with wide eyes and half smiles. Even two cops, who had stopped for coffee while patrolling their beat, paused to listen. When it was over, we all mingled with the musicians, asked questions and got another cup of something warm.

Fourth: Total Cost
$5 for the sandwich.

Until next month!

84, Charing Cross Road

2008-12-06T10:52:00.001-06:00

I found a GREAT book in the school library, and read it in one sitting. It reminded me of the process I go though when buying used books online.

• The book I really want is out of print.
• I order online from a seemingly reputable seller.
• The book does not come as soon as expected and I email to find out what’s going on.
• The seller emails to say that the book has been sent and should arrive any day.
• The book finally arrives in perfect condition and I feel guilty for only having spent $2 on it. Five stars!
• I order another book from the same seller.
• This time the book arrives on time, but it’s a yellowed, ten year old, mass-market paperback that is missing the front cover.
• I pound out an angry email to the seller threatening to give him only one star!
• The seller writes immediately to beg my forgiveness …
• etc.

That is basically what this book is – letters back and forth between a book buyer and a book seller. The difference is that Helene Hanff’s experience is so much more charming and funny and poignant. I laughed all the way through … and then cried at the end (real tears).

Without giving too much away, it taught me a valuable lesson about friendship and living for today rather than putting off ‘till tomorrow.

Elinor Approves the Rent

2008-11-24T21:34:00.001-06:00

I found the perfect apartment. It is (almost) everything I wanted – good price, nice location, plenty of space, charming woodwork. Yep. I found the perfect apartment. But it wasn’t easy.

When I first started my search everything I found was too expensive, too small, too hot, too cold, too far or too dangerous. I learned the real meanings of words like rustic, cozy and beautifully redone (rundown, small, expensive). I learned that the most wonderful prospect can be disqualified by one fatal flaw – like one that had no lock on the front door, or another where you couldn’t stand upright in the bathroom.

After a while, I had a system. I narrowed down the neighborhoods that I would allow myself to look in – based on average rent, proximity to work and interest. Then I started calling, looking for the apartment with the best combination of factors. When I got a call back I would start with THE most important element and work my way down the list.

* RENT - It had to be within my budget, or I would end the conversation there – no need falling in love with a place I can’t afford.
* UTILITIES - I wanted a place where I could control my own heat since I like it on the cool side.
* FLOORS - I really needed a place with carpet since I don’t have any rugs.
* SECURITY - The door needs to lock. Pretty simple.

So, after finally knowing what I was REALLY looking for, I set out to fall in love with an apartment … and I found one! It meets all my basic needs, plus I like it. (More to come.)

All in all the apartment hunt was a rewarding experience. I came away with what I wanted, and I came in under budget. I feel like Elinor in Sense and Sensibility:

The house … was on so simple a scale, and the rent so

uncommonly moderate, as to leave her no right of objection …

In other words, she found a place SO perfect that she HAD to take it.

Smart Art

2008-11-16T21:53:00.001-06:00

I am learning the art of living large on a small income. This past Thursday I had a chance to go to a reception for solo art show at St. Norbert College featuring the work of a fellow teacher. Since it was on a school night and far from Milwaukee, she rented a bus to take all of those who wanted to attend … and she ordered pizza.

Around 4:30 we boarded the bus. I took along a stack of papers to grade, two magazines, a book and my iPod -- just in case the trip was really boring. But boring it was not. Right after the bus took off -- POP -- the champagne was opened (no I did NOT have any) and the pizza was passed. I handed out napkins and then chatted with teachers, students and some other really funny people. Needless to say, the papers went ungraded.

When we arrived, we were treated to a wonderful show. Everything was done in/on/with paper. One collection was made up of pressed flowers representing each month of the year. There was another collection of pieces that represented trees in various seasons. Finally, "Common Threads" was my favorite. Hard to explain, but very beautiful.

The ride home was less eventful. A friend helped me grade the papers, and then I fell asleep to the sweet strains of an NPR podcast. All in all, it was a great evening. Really great. And the price could not be beat (free).

The invitation.

Waiting for the bus. (Jill on left, Rissie on right.)

Art lovers.

Passing out napkins.

Sam's steady hand.

A toast!

Visiting with students.

One of the better storytellers.

At last!

Trees.

The artist speaks.

I loved "Common Threads" because of its beauty ...

... its intricacy ...

... and its symmetry.

Thank you to Jeff K. for many of these pictures.