Wednesday, Oui? $$$

A while back I posted about our local library having a sale; fill a bag for $5. We do what we can to support everything local-- little did we know our local library would support us.

A few weeks after the sale Aaron took one of the books we purchased off the shelf. When he opened the cover, low and behold, this money was pressed between the pages.

After doing some research we determined we spent more at the book sale than we recouped with our "find." Much of the money is obsolete and no longer in circulation. Perhaps in years it will be worth millions ;) but, for now, we just like to look at it. We think it's pretty neat. Oui?

Top Ten Tuesday: Hiding Spots

I work very hard. I love my career and it seems to be getting better and better with each passing day. I could work, as I've said before, 24-7/365(6). I'm a work-a-holic, I'm driven to do good work, and I find much satisfaction with my job when the day comes to an end.

With that said I've also found the need to have time to think, time to decompress, and time to spend with just me. My job is stressful and I can't really process things that happen in my work with loved ones due to confidentiality. So there are days I just want to think or NOT THINK. I have several ways I take care of myself. Below are my Top Ten hiding places- places I go or things I do to hide from the world, my thoughts, or just be a zombie :)

10. Vegging on the couch

9. Crafting

8. Tooling around on the Internet or shopping online- Etsy and L.L. Bean are a little bit of a problem.

7. Reading the paper with a cup of coffee or tea.

6. Playing lots of games.

5. Bird watching in the "bird room" (*Note: We named all the rooms in our house- like the movie Clue. "Jessi did it in the bird room with the binoculars."

4. Reading a good book in my reading nook.

3. Gardening

2. Lying in bed with delicious puppies.

1. Spending an afternoon looking through my cookbooks and trying a new recipe.

I have hiding places to keep me centered and sane; everybody should have a place to hide ;)

Doggy Dentistry

No Menu Monday today. I'm a ball of nerves and can't even think about eating let alone writing about food.

As many of you know, I have a disease. Well, I shouldn't say "disease" more of a "sickness."

Hi. My name is Jessi and I'm pathologically obsessed with my animals.

At 7:30 this morning I brought Manny to the doggy dentist for a cleaning. He has a little bit of plaque built up on his back teeth which I can't reach with his toothbrush (yes, I brush his teeth.) I'm really nervous because he has to go under anesthesia for the cleaning. I know he'll probably be fine but, gosh I worry.

Bing is next. I couldn't do both at the same time-- that would be the end of me.

I must say I only cried for about 10 minutes, which isn't bad when you consider the scene I made when I dropped the kids off to be "fixed." I honestly thought the vet was going to involuntarily commit me.

Please wish Mr. Man good-luck. He'll have nice pearly whites after today.

Manny, you're a good boy and Mama loves you! Daddy, Mama and Bing will pick you up at 4:30 and you can have a treat tonight!

Photographic Friday: Dryer Check

I know I've spoken in the past about my routines (I won't say "rituals" because that's a diagnostic term) when leaving the house on any given day. Yes, I know it's not normal but at least I know that. My greatest fear is something happening to the "children." Therefore, I do a battery and dryer check every day before I lock the door (and check to make sure it's really locked, LOL.)

I always think the dogs will find a battery and eat it (because, clearly, I leave random batteries laying around my spotless house; an unrealistic fear) or one of the cats will be trapped in the dryer all day (a realistic fear because I usually do laundry in the morning before work.)

Above, as you can see, Shredda struck fear into the heart of me by climbing into the dryer.

Wednesday, Oui? Acorns

When Aaron and I began "dating" (I put dating in quotations because he was dating me -- I was simply hanging out with him) one interest we shared was a love for the outdoors; specifically, hiking.

On our very first hike together we journeyed to Oak Hill Fire Tower in the Concord area. It's an easy but long hike that leads to a fire tower/lookout area. The views are glorious and, on a clear day, you can see Mt. Monadnock, Mt. Kearsarge, Mt. Cardigan and some of the White Mountains up north including Mt. Washington.

When we reached the summit Aaron wanted to continue up to the top of the fire tower. Now, you have to understand, I'm not a fan of heights. I wouldn't go so far as to say I'm deathly afraid of heights but, they do cause me some discomfort and anxiety-- mostly I get wobbly legs and I start to shake. Never the less, part of me didn't want to be a baby so, I scaled the tiny staircase that felt like it reached into the heavens... and boy was it worth it! The views were gorgeous.
 
At the top of the tower there is a platform where you can stand to get a panoramic view of the expansive mountain ranges. We weren't dating at this point in time, although Aaron was trying desperately to entice me to be his girlfriend so, with his Honda car key, he carved our names into a support beam on the tower. It read: Aaron (heart) Jessi. I remember when he did this my first thought was, "I hate graffiti" followed by "isn't he assumptive!?" I wasn't pleased he marked the tower but, ours was among hundreds and hundreds of names so I rationalized it was "semi-okay" that he did this (and, deep down, I was a bit flattered.)
 
Hiking back to his car I picked up an acorn cap and, feeling the need to impress and out-do his graffiti, I put the acorn cap to my lips and let out a shrill whistle; always pleased with my ability to be a Tom-boy. Aaron was amused and asked me to teach him how to do it. I placed the acorn cap in his hands and he tried, unsuccessfully, several times.
 
We have hiked the Oak Hill Fire Tower twice since that first day, the most recent time being 4 days after we were married. Each time I fight the nausea as we revisit the view and our names carved illegally into a support beam. Little did I know, the day we took our very first hike, not only would this be our first hike as husband and wife but also, years later, Aaron and I would have together hiked many of the mountains you can see from the top of the tower (Cardigan, Monadnock, Kearsarge.) It's really funny how life happens.
 
The reason for the title of today's blog is three-fold. While planning our wedding I wanted to do something original with the tables; most people use just a plain old number. I, on the other hand, named each table by a hike we have taken together. The place card bore the name of the guests, their respective table (mountain), and they were written on a seed packet that could be directly planted to grow wildflowers. The cards were set on a table decorated with-- you guessed it, acorns.
 

 
Now this story comes full circle.
 
As many of you may or may not know, weeks ago, Aaron's car was totalled by a tree falling in our yard. We just bought him a "new to us" truck but, before the old Honda was towed away, we had to go through the process of cleaning out Aaron's personal belongings. As he unloaded the car and brought travel mugs and tuperware into the house (grrr) I watched him set something, carefully, onto the counter; an acorn cap. I had already begun doing the dishes that were sitting in his car when I went to sweep the acorn cap into the trash. The conversation that ensued when something like this:
 
A: (excitedly) Nooo!
J: (startled, confused, holding the cap out to him) You wanted to save this?
A: Yes! It's the acorn cap.
J: I know what it is.
A: No. It's theee acorn cap.
J: (staring blanking, confused) "Theee" acorn cap?
A: The one from our first date... at Oak Hill. Remember?

All this time he saved it. Unbelievable.
 

Menu Monday: Shameless Plug

I don't have a recipe to share today but I wanted to supply a shameless plug by giving a shout out to Trader Joe's.

If you haven't experienced TJ's, you really need to. The quality of their products, their fair prices, and the "neighborhood store feeling" makes us a repeat customer. I love this store and I always find something new to try; they have the ordinary and the exotic. I can't really compare their prices to a supermarket for you simply because we go there infrequently so we spend more than we would at the grocery store; we usually stock up on the things we can't get locally. If I had to guess, however, I would say some items are cheaper (organic granola) while others are more expensive (household products-- but, they are all natural and eco-friendly-- and to this ecoholic, that's important.) If you frequent farmer's markets, like Aaron and I often do, you won't find much of a difference in the pricing.

We LOVE Trader Joe's and I wish they would open a store somewhere in the vicinity of my town. Until then we will travel far and wide for the goodness available only at TJ's.

Below: Some of our favorite "buys." Yes, we brought a camera into the store with us. Yes, I know that's not normal and a bit odd, but this is my forum, don't be a hater-- I can do what I want. As I've said before, Aaron and I set a goal to get a picture at every covered bridge, lighthouse, and Trader Joe's in New England; of course we brought the camera!

*Going back to read that last sentence, Trader Joe's really doesn't fit into that historic landmark category, does it? LOL.

Honey sesame almonds, maple (to-die-for) cookies, everything crackers (amazing with a dab of cream cheese), granola for my yogurt, mini peanut butter cups and the funniest tissues ever.

A note about the tissues: The boxes of tissues sold at Trader Joe's are beyond hilarious. I can't help but buy them and they make me laugh no matter what mood I'm in.

Wednesday, Si?

Our friend, Ben, is currently on a motorcycle trip across America/South America. I am so impressed with the courage he has. I don't know that I could do what he's doing but, what an experience it must be! He has been traveling since just after our wedding in October and is due to return later this spring. We can't wait for him to arrive home safely and hear all about his adventures in person.

Ben was able to attend our wedding although, I'm sure he was anxious; he departed just days after we were married. While opening our cards and gifts, we came across Ben's gift with a card on which he had written a promise that he would send us something from South America. Never did we expect that when he was thousands of miles away, he really would send us something from South America. But, for the short time I've known Ben, (which is since the summer of 2009) he has proven to be one of the most sincere, thoughtful people I've ever met.

Above are the animals he sent to us, and below are the email exchanges sent between Aaron and Ben telling the story of Mickey and Fello (we named them.) I did edit out parts of the email just for the sake of privacy.

Hey Kid,

We are completely stoked with our new friends Mickey (penguin) and Fello (bull). We can't wait to hear the story behind where you found them. As soon as I showed Jessi she was all smiles and said, "I can't wait to hear where Ben got these guys from. He is such a great guy."

So, when you get a minute to relax, drop us a line and let us know the story behind these two. They have a special spot on our bookcase far from the reach of Rocko and Shredda, who so desperately want to play with them.

We know you are enjoying yourself, like you do everywhere you go, keep on having fun, ride safe and we can't wait to see you soon.

Love,
Aaron and Jessi

Ben's response:

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Pickle Smoocher.

I'm really glad you like the presents. They are handmade in Mexico by women from the Zapatista Army of National Liberation. They live in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico. Chiapas is the poorest state in Mexico. I certainly got off the trail on this one as I took a small collectivo (local mini-bus) to their village about 1.5 hours outside of San Cristobal. They spoke to each other in their local Mayan language (which I didn't understand). They spoke to us few in Spanish (which I also didn't understand) but fortunately there was a guy from Spain to translate for me.
The Zapatistas have been in a war with the Mexican government for decades. They only want to live their simple lives but they feel the government won't let them. The government won't give them land to live, raise their families, tend to crops. On new years day in 1994 they stormed the cities in protest (among other things) the commencement of NAFTA the North American Free Trade Agreement which they feel doesn't help their people and instead helps big corporations. Many were killed by the military. Since then their war has been mostly political but there is great tension. All around their village is surrounded by Mexican military stations. When we entered we had to show our passports and state our political views. They don't consider this village part of Mexico but instead autonomous. They have very strong beliefs for education and womens equality. They are very talented craftspeople and one of their specialties are these handmade stuffed animals. I bought these directly from the Zapatista woman who made them. I really hope you like them and I thought you would appreciate the culture they represent.

Their war continues today and their future is uncertain. If you're interested in learning more check this out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zapatista_Army_of_National_Liberation

Merry Chrismas, Feliz Navidad, and Congratulations on your marriage! I can't wait to see you when I get home. Let's get some hiking in!

How cool is that? Ben nailed our personalities when he picked these for us and he supported something big.

Ben, we absolutely love our gifts. You are so thoughtful and we can't wait for you to come home, when you're good and ready, safe and sound.

Now, that is a Wednesday Oui, Si?

If you want to hear more about Ben's travels, visit his blog at: http://afewmoremiles.com/

Top Ten Tuesday: Say What?

Over the past few years my Mother and I have grown much closer than we were in the past. Now, I love to spend the weekend at my mother's house; our dogs play together, Aaron and Dan usually occupy themselves in some exhibit of manly chores, and my mother and I putter around the house cooking-- or sometimes even shopping ;)

Comically, however, today's post will showcase the top ten things you're likely to hear at any (every) visit to my mother's house.

10. "I'm gonna go up the sto-ah."
Translation: "I'm going to the store. I'll be back shortly." (Store usually means "Wal-marts" [don't forget the "s"] or Reny's.)

9. "What's the price-ah gas down yer way?"
Translation: "What are you paying for petroleum in New Hampshire, currently?

8. "I'm gonna head it."
Translation: "I'm tired; I'm going to bed and I shall see you in the morning."

7. "It'd be bettah in the microwave."
Translation: "Wow, this is certainly delicious. I'm going to heat it up and then taste it... Mmmmmm." *Note: Dan, my step-dad, puts everything in the microwave. He endorsed, at our last visit, that the microwave was, by far, the best modern day invention to date. Further, he knows just how long each item will take to perfect. A molasses cookie? 16 seconds. A cranberry muffin? Well, that will take 19 seconds.

6. "I got it at the dump."
Translation: "When I dropped off my rubbish today, low and behold, I found this ______. It's like Christmas Morning"

5. Who's bahkin?
Translation: Which one of the four Chihuahua's is making noise? (It's the million-dollar question with four potential answers: Winslow, Cidney, Bing or Manny.)

4. "Jeezhus, that's wicked gohoood."
Translation: "Lord Almighty that is tasty."

3. "Well, durin the Great Oil Embaaahgo of 1979"
Translation: "I'm going to pretend I haven't told you, yet, about the great oil embargo that took place in the year 1979. Let me fill you in starting with how it all began..." (Aaron and I have heard this story one million times. Sorry Dan, we love you, but we know all about the great oil embargo of 1979 because you tell us every time we visit. It was interesting the first 3 times... now, not so much.

2. "How ya doin on ______?"
Translation: "Do you currently need anything from the farm before you leave? Did you check your inventory of meat, syrup, canned goods, honey, vegetables? Do you need a years worth of potatos? Jam? Minced meat?"

1. "Now, lemme ask ya somethin."
Translation: Were you going somewhere? Put the car back in park; I want to talk about this subject." (Note: Whenever visiting my mother and Dan, always build in an extra 30-minutes into your departure time. They will walk you out to the car, hug and kiss good-bye and then Dan will come to the window and ask one last question just as you put the car in reverse starting off a 30-minute-long conversation [I think because, subconsciously, he doesn't want us to leave.])

There's no place like the farm.

From L to R: Cidney Charlie, Manstance Ulysses, Bing Francis.

 Missing from picture- Winslow Clement.

Cidney & Winslow

Menu Monday: Stuffed French Toast

I love breakfast.

A few years ago when I (very successfully) did the Weight Watchers Program one of the leaders at a meeting said, "Eat like a King for breakfast and a Pauper for supper." He explained the important role the first meal of the day played in fueling you for the next few hours. Why eat a huge meal at night, just before you go to bed and have it sit in your stomach? Prior to Weight Watchers, when "they" said, "It's the most important meal" it would always be explained simply as, "You'll need your energy." Um, have you met me? Me? Need energy in the morning? I am the definition of an annoying morning person so, I would normally just laugh, skip breakfast, and eat the big meal when I needed the energy-- at 7:00 p.m. Well, the pounds packed on until I did Weight Watchers and learned another reason it's important to eat your big meal in the morning... so you have all day to burn those calories!!

Over the past few years, while working to develop a plethora of easy morning feasts, I have perfected Stuffed French Toast. *Note: Aaron married a French toast girl (and a Pepsi girl.) Aaron, on the other hand, is a pancake guy (and Coke guy). Stuffed French toast has taught our morning taste buds to coexist.

Jessi's Stuffed French Toast

• 1/3 Package of Neufchâtel cheese (it's lower in fat- but you can use regular cream cheese)
• 1C Fruit separated into 1/2C portions (raspberries, blueberries or cut strawberries)
• 4 Slices of Bread (we use an organic oatnut bread but you can use whatever you have)
• 1 egg
• 1T Vanilla Extract
• 1/3 C Milk

1. Prior to beginning, cut off the desired portion of cream cheese and let it set at room temp. for about 30 minutes or until softened.

2. In a medium sized bowl mix 1/2 C fruit with 1/3 package of cream cheese until well blended. Spread the mixture on two slices of bread and join with the plain pieces-- like a sandwich.

3. In another bowl beat the egg, milk, and vanilla together and wet both sides of the "sandwich."

4. Drop onto a heated, oiled cooking pan (we use cast-iron w/veggie oil) and cook until browned on both sides (and no longer soggy.)

5. Add remaining fruit and syrup on top, and pair with a side. Delicious!

*Note: this recipe serves two people; one piece of stuffed French toast each (which, believe me, is plenty!) I have, in the past, doubled the recipe and had leftovers for the next morning. It reheats beautifully.

*Note* I am incredibly spoiled and I never use "fake maple syrup" -- ever. Of course, my mother and Dan make their own maple syrup so I don't have the costs associated with real sryup. I know it's expensive but so worth the taste. I, personally, snub my nose at any syrup that you have to wait for as it oozes, slowly, out of a plastic bottle. Try the real stuff. You'll support small business and local farms as opposed to some fictional Aunty. ;)

Photographic Friday: Shedding

Aaron and I have an ongoing argument regarding the frequent occurrence of our drains clogging. He is convinced it's because of my hair in each drain... blasphemy! I clean it out everyday. Well, almost everyday; a few weeks ago this note was waiting for me in the sink following my 45-minute morning primp.

LOL. Oopsie