Menu Monday: Sweet & Saucy Ham Sandwiches

As temperatures in New England drop, nothing pleases me more than dragging out the old crock pot. I love crock pot cooking because it's easy and the portions are usually large enough to have a few meals instead of just one. On days I use the crock pot I'll make something late morning and let it cook all day while I enjoy an adventure in the great outdoors. When we return, chilled to the bone, dinner is piping hot and ready to eat.

I love cooking with Betty Crocker because her recipes are easy and don't require expensive or elaborate ingredients/planning. The recipe below is from her Slow Cooker book.

Betty Crocker's Sweet & Saucy Ham Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds fully cooked smoked ham, chopped
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard (I used 1/4 Dijon with 1/4 yellow mustard because I don't love Dijon)
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon instant minced onion
• 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple in juice (undrained)
• 18 sandwich buns

Directions

1. Mix all ingredients except buns in 3- to 4-quart slow cooker.

2. Cover and cook on Low heat setting 4 to 5 hours.
3. Stir well before serving. To serve, fill each bun with about 1/4 cup ham mixture, using slotted spoon. Ham mixture will hold on Low heat setting up to 2 hours; stir occasionally

This makes a very large pot of sweet and saucy ham. Eat what you want and then freeze the rest. Voila! another meal awaits you on a lazy day!

Photographic Friday: Therapy is for the birds

A long while back a new store moved into the neighborhood where I was living at the time. I try to support small business and this particular store is an antique-esque place that sell all sorts of furniture and home decorative pieces from all over the world (i.e: remember the armoire I purchased for my bathroom? The big white one from France that weighs about 250 lbs. and almost caused the demise of my marriage as we tried to move it up the stairs? I got that piece there.) Anyway, I digress. One of the displays were origami cranes. I love birds and I was obsessed with these cranes. Immediately, I asked the owner if I could purchase them and, to my disappointment, she told me they weren't for sale -- even after I gave her "the look" that says "Really, there is no price that would allow me to take these home?" Every time I would visit the store (which was often- she has great taste) I would demand she sell me my cranes remind her how much I would enjoy making the cranes the focal point of my office. Finally, one day, she called me to let me know she was changing the scenery and I could have my cranes.

With a little bit of tweaking (and some paint) they found their way to my office and, not only do my clients like them, I find them very relaxing. A huge thank you to my wonderful husband who suspended them from the ceiling.

If you're in the vicinity of Concord, NH, visit Kaza. It's worth the trip!

Fun Fact Thursday: So give them blood, blood, gallons of the stuff!

I couldn't resist using the lyrics of one of my favorite songs, Blood, by My Chemical Romance for the title. I thought it was fitting.


Please read the below information from The American Red Cross and consider donating blood. One pint from you could save the life of another person; you do have the opportunity to make a difference!

Severe winter weather throughout much of the United States has caused the cancellation of more than 14,000 blood and platelet donations since January 1. There is a critical need for donors now. In fact, someone is counting on you at this very moment.

The Red Cross urges all eligible donors in unaffected areas to make an appointment to give blood or platelets in the coming days, and those in affected areas to donate as soon as travel is safe.

To make an appointment for a whole blood or double red cell donation, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit us online at redcrossblood.org. To make an appointment for a platelet donation, click here.

If you are not eligible to donate, please encourage a friend or family member to donate.

Donations will help replenish the blood supply to ensure that blood continues to be available for patients with serious medical needs.

I really struggle to comprehend why some people do not/will not give blood. I understand some people have needle fears, or are not eligible to donate for various reasons but, what about the rest of you? There are a lot of good reasons to not donate but, "I'm too busy" should NOT be one of them! I am a regular donor; the entire process takes about 45 minutes every 56 days. Many employers even allow you to leave work to donate. If you're able to donate please get out there and give blood. If you're one of the ones who "doesn't have time" I sincerely hope someone else took the time to donate a pint for you if you're ever in need of blood.

Wednesday, Oui? Shine on, Friends

I am so fortunate; lucky beyond measure. I have a great core group of friends who I consider to be my "family of creation," I have an amazing family of origin, I have a beautiful home, I have everything I need and most things I want, I have a husband who supports and loves me unconditionally, I have a career which allows me to be creative, challenged and accountable. I can do anything I set my mind to.

I have been incredibly busy lately. When I get busy I sometimes put on blinders, or worse, a searchlight. I can't explain what I mean by that but, those who truly know me, know what that means and what it looks like. Sometimes I can't slow down and I end up crashing in one metaphorical way or another.

One of my very best friends recently taught me a valuable lesson, just when I needed it. If I have any one person in my life who challenges me, in every way possible, it's this friend. I both hate her and love her for it. In my honest opinion, I am a better person because of this friend and I would be absolutely lost without her. I am certain of it.

When my hackles rise, most back off. She never does and sometimes it makes me want to crouch down into a ball because her brightness seeks me out and finds me in the darkest hiding places. She doesn't retreat, she engages me even further. Even when I must be completely unapproachable, she wrestles my quills; when I slam my metaphorical door shut with such force that it shakes the walls, she quietly knocks.

Recently, at a moment when I was seeing red, not only did she calm me but, later, left a slip of paper with me. At first, I'm not going to lie, I shoved it in my bag, refusing to budge. Later, I read it and my knees buckled a little bit.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” - Marianne Williamson (A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of a Course in Miracles)

I can't say I am going to be a beacon of light every day for the rest of my life but, I am going to screw my light bulb all the way in. I'm not going to turn on the dimmer, in fact, I'm installing a switch. I am powerful beyond measure-- not anymore powerful than the next guy but, powerful in a way I grew into, a way I earned, a way I know I am capable of.

At times when I am completely exhausted and resigned to curl up in ball, I need a friend like this one to kick my ass, challenge my thought process and remind me of exactly who I am and how hard I worked to get here. To this friend, you know who you are, thank you for not letting me make my escape and lick my wounds... you're my equivalent to an alternator because you charge my battery. I can't believe you put up with me.

Top Ten Tuesday: Must See T.V.

I'm not one to sit on the couch and stare mindlessly at the television; I get too restless. That said, Aaron finally convinced me to allow a television into our bedroom. I've been pretty picky about it in the past because I, personally, don't think a television belongs in a place meant for sleeping. I must say, given my busy schedule, it has become more of a convenience rather than an inconvenience. I've been getting home so late that, by the time I sit on the couch, I doze off in the first 15 minutes of any given program and find myself sleeping through Aaron's feeble attempts to wake me prior to 2 AM. Now, I can slither between my sheets at 9:30 PM and if I doze off, convienently, I'm already in bed. Score me!

There are about 10 programs that I will turn to if they're on. (*note* I DO NOT schedule time to see these programs but, if I plunk my ass in front of the tube, these are the first shows I check for.)

1. Forensic Files: This is probably one of my favorites. I love forensic science.
2. Pawn Stars: This has become one of my favorites on the History Channel. I love the old man.
3. Antiques Roadshow: I could watch this (and only this) for the rest of my life!
4. Whale Wars: This show makes me angry on so many levels but, it did inspire me to buy a whale over the summer.
5. Survivor: Okay so, I lied, I DO schedule my life around this show. Aaron and I are obsessed!
6. Full Throttle Saloon: This is not a show I would normally watch but, there is something about it that appeals to me!
7. Glee: Although sometimes this show makes me an uncomfortable voyeur to inappropriate teacher/student relationships that lack healthy boundaries, it's a guilty pleasure!
8. Hardcore Pawn: This is Real T.V's equivalent to Pawn Stars; same idea as Pawn Stars but with added drama and subtracted historical education.
9. 1000 Ways to Die: I can't look away.

10. American Pickers: I love these guys. If you haven't seen it-- check it out!!

Wednesday, Oui?

Today, I want to give a shout out to my brother-in-law, Matt, who turns 35 today! Yikes! Happy Birthday, Matt!!

Two Molloy birthdays are celebrated in the month of January; one for Matt and the other for Linda. On Saturday, Aaron's mother turned 60-years-old. Unbeknown to her, we planned a surprise party to celebrate her 60 years of life. Pulling one over on Linda was not easy but, it sure was fun! All the work that went into planning a perfect party afforded us the ability to get some amazing pictures of Linda and the many people who love her. Jim and Linda certainly do have a great bunch of folks who they call friends.

The planning committee consisted of me, me, and well, basically me. Normally Matt and Nelson would have had a hand in it but, the two unfortunate boys were basking on a beach in Brazil for the first couple weeks of 2011 so, it was up to Aaron, Jim and I to get this party planned. Aaron has a hard time planning dinner for an entire week and Jim couldn't do much right under Linda's nose so, I carried the weight of a surprise heist on my back.

Those who know me know I love details. When it comes to planning a party you can bet I will get every detail taken care of perfectly to make the party the most personal gathering known to man. But when you're a busy-career-woman-part-time-type-A-party-planner- I will say, I was stressed for the last couple of weeks.

I hand-punched white index cards for friends and family to write Linda a note. On Sunday, after the party, I put all the notes in an album side-by-side to a picture of the person who wrote the note. I also had fact sheets at every table about the happenings in 1951.

We were instructed to blow up 60 balloons for the party. The hard part was that we had a window of about 55 minutes between when we were able to get in the room to decorate and the first guest arrival. Me and the three amigos (Matt, Nelson and Aaron) managed just fine. 

 I had a banner made for Linda! It was amazing!

The cake, of course, had an edible picture of Shamus on it. When it was time to serve the cake she made me cut around his picture (we even bought her favorite ice cream and snuck it into the restaurant [they weren't impressed because they make ice cream on site too.])

We held the party at the Puritan Backroom, where they often eat dinner, so getting her there wasn't too difficult. She was so surprised! She will probably kill me for posting these pictures but, I find the sincerity in her face so beautiful that I just had to share.

Me and my McPepe. We are now joking that I'm not "Princess" anymore, I'm his personal assistant.

I love this picture.

The Backroom has the very best mudslides known to man. I would know. I had too many ;)

Quite a bit of dancing took place. Here, Linda is dancing with our family friend/neighbor, Eddie. There are several other pictures I would love to post but, alas, I do want to keep some things private.

We pulled it off, Linda had a great night, and we (the party-planners) lived to tell about it. It was nice to be able to dedicate a night to a woman who does so much for her entire family. Happy 60th- here's to many more, Oui?



Fun Fact Thursday: Senior Year at Spaulding...

It's really hard to believe I've been out of high school for almost 12 years. I am getting O.L.D!


1. Did you date someone from your school?
Yes, two people.

2. Did you carpool to school?
Yes. I drove my best friend (at the time) Jenny to school every morning. She *always* made us late. I hated being late (I still do!)

3. What kind of car did you have?
A Saab 900 Turbo. That was an amazing car!

4. What kind of car do you have now?
2008 Subaru Outback- PZEV. The first brand-new-car I have ever purchased!

5. It's Friday night in the present...
I'm home with Aaron and the "kids."

6. It's Friday night...where were you THEN?
Probably on a date or with Jenny.

7. What kind of job did you have then?
I worked for Webber Energy Fuels. I kept that same job all through my undergraduate work-- I ended up being there 7 years! I loved customer service!

8. What kind of job do you do now?
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor AND a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work with kids 12-22 providing substance abuse treatment; I specialize in group therapy

And I am an Adjunct Professor at New Hampshire Technical Institute.
I'm a good egg.

9. Were you a party animal?
Nope. I was a bit of a loner-- not in an Emo type way but, I just had a lot going on and a lot of responsibility.

10. Were you considered a flirt?
Flirt? I liked the boys and they liked me (which meant a lot of the girls didn't like me too much.)

11. Were you in band, orchestra, or choir?
Band, thank you very much.

12. Were you a nerd?
A little. If by "nerd" you mean "good student", yes. I did well in high school.

13. Did you get suspended or expelled?
Never!

14. Can you sing the fight song?
Did we have one?

15. Who was/were your favorite teacher(s)?
Mrs. Carolyn McCabe- Honors English, Creative Writing and Woman's Studies. I loved her and we exchange letters, still.

16. Where did you sit during lunch?
Usually with the boys.

17. What was your school's full name?
Spaulding High School

18. When did you graduate?
1999

19. What was your school mascot?
Red Raider Indian- a bunch of racists we were.

20. If you could go back and do it again, would you?
I have just started to gain back the self-esteem one loses in high school. I would go back as I am now and *maybe* do it again. As I was then? No, I was too weak and impressionable.

21. Did you have fun at Prom?
Not really. I felt those things were obligatory. I did it for my parents and because I thought I would regret if I didn't. Now, as an adult, I am indifferent about those events.

22. Do you still talk to the person you went to Prom with?
Negative.

23. Are you planning on going to your next reunion?
Probably not. I don't see the point. Mostly it's to reconnect with people who you hated in school-- and compare your life to others. I feel no need to form such comparisons. I'm doing or have done exactly what I said I would. Those who I want to talk to from high school, I still do so, probably not.

24. Do you still talk to people from school?
See above.

25. School Colors?
Red and White

26. What celebrities came from your high school?
Um, hello? I grew up in Rochester. We have a few kids who made the paper and, as a result, ended up serving life at the State Prison.

Wednesday, Oui?

I am not going to work today. I'm going to work from home in my pajamas. I don't think I really need to say more about that. Happy "Snow-day-work-from-home-with-no-interruptions" Oui?!

Top Ten Tuesday: Good reads in 2010

I love to read. I have *always* loved to read. Unfortunately, anyone who has been through college and grad school can attest that reading for pleasure happens very little when you're reading for knowledge. Since getting my masters in 2007, I've been devouring book after book. I will say I tend to prefer non-fiction over fiction but, I've developed a palate for fiction over the past year. In my professional life I have to read on a daily basis to keep up with techniques and the ever-changing field of science, psychology and education...so it's not a wonder that sometimes I just want to get lost between the pages of make-believe.

As the ball dropped and the calendar year turned to 2010, I promised myself I would read 12 books over the next 12 months; I surpassed that goal and read 17. While I don't consider 17 a great average as I'd like to read 52 in a year, I am still proud that I read as many as I did (given the little time I have to relax.) I have set my 2011 goal at 15. We shall see how that goes.

Below find a list of the 17 books I read and, of those 17, my 10 favorites.

1. Brooke & Keith Desserich: Notes Left Behind
2. Wally Lamb: The Hour I First Believed 
3. Maxime Valette: F My Life 
4. Jason F. Wright: The Wednesday Letters 
5. Richard Paul Evans: The Christmas Box 
6. Alyson Noel: Evermore 
7. Elizabeth Murray: Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard
8. Mark Haddon: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time 
9. Kathryn Stockett: The Help 
10. Mary Beth Crain: Widow, a Chihuahua, and Harry Truman: A Story of Love, Loss, and Love Again 
11. Jean Kwok: Girl in Translation 
12. Robert Goolrick: The Reliable Wife
13. Elizabeth George-Speare: The Sign of the Beaver 
14. Stephanie Meyer: The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner (Twilight Saga) 
15. Laura Munson: This Is Not The Story You Think It Is... A Season of Unlikely Happiness- A Memoir 
16. Elizabeth Strout: Amy & Isabelle 
17. Alice Sebold: The Lovely Bones

My Favorites:

1. Laura Munson: This Is Not The Story You Think It Is... A Season of Unlikely Happiness- A Memoir (Non-Fiction)

I would have to say this is probably the dark horse pick for one of my favorites. I picked this book up on one of our Barnes and Noble date nights. It's non-fiction about the author's marital struggles and what she did to save her marriage. It's not a genre that I would normally lean toward, nor did I find the topic something I could relate to at this point in my life (being happily married) but, the summary sucked me in.

After being married for several years, Laura Munson was shocked when her husband told her he didn't love her anymore. Her response? "I don't buy it". I found this to be an incredible book about one woman's journey to save her marriage and (re)discover herself. As cheesy and cliche as it sounds, I learned so much from this book; about life, marriage and being a woman.

2. Stephanie Meyer: The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner (Twilight Saga) (Fiction)

Hello?! It's part of the Twilight Saga; I needn't say more.

3. Elizabeth George-Speare: The Sign of the Beaver (Fiction)

I pre-read this book for my Nephew because over the summer he developed an interest in the timeless theory of "Cowboys and Indians." I didn't expect this book to have such an amazing story. I'll admit, I cried at the end.

4. Jean Kwok: Girl in Translation (Fiction)

This is not a true story but while you're turning each page (rapidly) you feel as though it is. I suppose, to some extent, it's based on truth. This book follows a young Asian teen as she aspires to find the American dream while working in a sweatshop.

5. Kathryn Stockett: The Help (Fiction)

On the list this is by FAR AND WIDE my favorite book! If you choose to ready any book from this list, pick this one. The language is a little hard to adjust to given it's written from the prospective of southern black slaves during a very trying and violent time but, it's so worth the read. I loved, loved, loved this book.

6. Wally Lamb: The Hour I First Believed (Fiction but has actual facts and transcripts from Columbine)

Years ago I read one of Wally Lamb's most noted novels She's Come Undone and I loved the honesty of his writing. Fast forward to a few years later, (months ago) I ordered the above book as it was on clearance. The book sounded somewhat interesting, a fictional story, with accurate documentation of the Columbine tragedy. I loved this book. It was one of those books you didn't want to end.

7. Elizabeth Murray: Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard (Non-Fiction)

I had seen previews for this story as a Lifetime movie therefore, I had little interest in viewing it. In my book- club magazine I read the summary and decided to give it a try. I loved this book not only because it's non-fiction but also because it's a story of survival, perseverance and it accurately portrays a side of substance abuse and addiction that isn't often seen in the light it's presented in.

8. Brooke & Keith Desserich: Notes Left Behind (Non-Fiction)

This book is the diary of the last few months of a 6-year-old girl's life as told by her letters and her parent's journal entries. You'll need a box of tissues for this one. The bravery of this little girl and her family is unbelievable.

9. Mark Haddon: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (Fiction)

It's a murder-mystery of sorts but written from the perspective of a 15-year-old boy diagnosed with Autism. It's funny, sad, suspenseful, and accurate. I loved this book. It was a really easy read too.

10. Jason F. Wright: The Wednesday Letters (Fiction)

I picked this book for obvious reasons (title) and I have to say I wasn't disappointed. It's the story of two hardworking, long-and happily-married inn keepers who die in each other's arms. Their death forces home their three grown children including their youngest son, who has had several brushes with the law. As events unfold the children discover their family history (and secrets) through the Wednesday letters; notes their father wrote to their mother every Wednesday.

As 2011 is in full swing, I already have several books on my list the read. Stay tuned and watch the sidebar of this blog to see what I'm currently reading.

Menu Monday: Fritters and a Shameless plug

I know I've mentioned it here hundreds of times so, let's make it hundreds + one -- breakfast is a pretty big deal in the Molloy household. We love breakfast; it's our favorite meal of the day. Growing up, occasionally, my mother would make "fritters" (A.K.A "crepes") using a recipe passed down from her mother. My sister and I would devour them!

Aaron isn't a huge fan of fritters (unless we're in Montreal [sell out]) perhaps because it's a French thing and Molloy, as you well know (hehehe) is Irish. Anyway, every now and then, if I'm feeling up to the challenge, (breakfast is Aaron's domain) I'll beat him to the kitchen and whip together my (grand)mother's fritters.

Fritters:

• 1 1/2 C water
• 1C flour
• 3 shakes of salt
• 1 egg

Beat egg, add water, salt and beat slowly while adding flour until it's mixed and smooth (batter will be very thin). Heat oil in a frying pan and pour 1/2 C of batter into pan. Tilt pan so batter is spread evenly. Cook until edges begin to curl and fritter is golden brown. Serve with honey and powdered sugar, bananas and Nutella, jam and granulated sugar, maple syrup, maple butter (my favorite) or Montreal style like a wrap with eggs and Canadian bacon... you get the idea!

The whole family usually comes out of the woodwork for breakfast! Clearly, we don't have rules about animals during mealtime. Enjoy!

Shameless plug:

I'm a busy career girl. On top of that, I also like to have fun, keep a tidy house and spend time with friends and family-- which doesn't leave much time to cook. I wouldn't go so far as to say I love to cook, nor would I say I dislike cooking. While I do find it relaxing and fun, let's get real and face the facts: I love food but lack the hours needed to prepare intricate recipes and meals.

For Christmas my mother gave me one of the most amazing books, Peg Bracken's: The I Hate to Cook Book

Inside are recipes for every busy woman who is looking to stuff her (and her family's) pie-hole with wholesome yet easy meals. If you like the type of cookbook that you need to read with a companion dictionary so you can decipher the names of the ingredients (which can only be purchased at an out-of-the-way exotic speciality store) than this is NOT the book for you.

Peg Bracken hated to cook and compiled this hilarious book of easy recipes in 1960. I asked for this book for Christmas not only because I love to own easy cookbooks but because I like this spunky Donna Reed antithesis.

Just to give you a taste (pun intended) of her humor, below are the names of a few of the chapters:

30 Day by Day entrees (or the rock pile)
The Leftover (or every family needs a dog)
Company's Coming (or your back is to the wall)
Last Minute Suppers (or this is the story of your life)
Desserts (or people are too fat anyway)
Equivalents Et. Cetera (or dreary details that you certainly have no intention of remembering)


Peg's sense of humor weaves through each recipe and side story. Peg Bracken (1960) discusses how much she hates:

"big fat cookbooks that tell you everything about everything. For one thing they contain too many recipes. Just look at all the things you can do with a chop, and aren't about to..."

Also they're always telling you what any chucklehead would know. 'Place dough in pan to rise and cover with a  clean cloth,' What did they think you'd cover it with? This terrible explicitness also leads them to say, 'Pour mixture into 2 1/2 qt. sauce pan.' Well, when you hate to cook you've no idea what size your saucepans are except big, middle-sized, and little." (pg. 2)

I am in love with this book. Aside from my Amish Cookbooks, it's the only cookbook I've wanted to read cover to cover. I plan to try out many of the easy recipes; I'll report back!

Fun Fact Thursday

1. What time did you go to bed last night?
11:30

2. Favorite food to have cooked on the grill?
Mushrooms

3. What was the last TV show you watched?
Antiques Roadshow- I love that show.

4. What is your favorite movie genre?
Something that makes me think. Although, I do love cheesy 80's movies.

5. If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Alaska. It has been booked for 2011!! But, now that Alaska is all set, I'm dreaming of Ireland.

6. What did you have for lunch yesterday?
I would love to have a "lunch hour" but, alas, I don't have time. So, I settled for an apple and two Werther's Originals while writing progress notes. I'm the picture of health.

7. What is your favorite self-indulgence?
Pedicures and massages.

8. What foods do you love?
I love eggs... from my head down to my legs. I'm kidding. But I do love eggs. I also really like coconut shrimp, French onion soup, I'm a big fan of peanut butter and I'm nuts about nuts, grapes and cottage cheese.

9. Favorite Place to Eat?
My house, Jim and Linda's, Matt & Nelson's, and my Moms.

10. What is your ultimate salad?
Fuji Apple Chicken Salad from Panera. Sans the Gorgonzola

11. What kind of vehicle do you really want?
My dream car would be a grey Subaru Outback PZEV wagon with heated seats and power everything...
oh wait :)

12. What are your favorite clothes/shoes?
I love things that are comfortable. I like Banana Republic, Old Navy, Urban Outfitters.
Shoes? Keens or Sanitas only, please!

13. Where would you love to go on your next vacation?
Well, In October we spent 4 days in Pittsburg, we booked Alaska- we're going to North Conway for our annual getaway this winter, a month ago we were in NYC, and we've planned a Boston Day trip in a couple of weeks. But, recently, I've had San Antonio and Amish Country on my mind.

14. Are you optimistic or pessimistic?
Optimist- 97.8% of the time.

15. What career path do you sometimes wish you would've pursued?
1st Choice? Emergency room doctor
2nd Choice? Therapist
3rd Choice? College Professor

I'm not doing too shabby.

16. Favorite outdoor activities?
Hiking, kayaking, walking the pups

17. Where did you grow up?
Gonic, NH

"we're from gonic and no one could be prouder... if you don't believe us, we'll say it a little louder..."

"WE'RE FROM GONIC, AND NO ONE COULD BE PROUDER... IF YOU DON'T BELIEVE US, WE'LL YELL A LITTLE LOUDER..."

I miss riding on the school bus singing our school songs. Good times.

18. What is your favorite sport?
I'm not much into athletics. I'm an intellectual. I gave soccer a try a while back and I'm still ashamed of how competitive I was. I was pretty nasty on the field.

19. Any regrets?
Depends on my mood.

20. Favorite person to spend time with?
Aaron, my sister, my Pepe

21. Who makes you laugh most often?
My 243, Quan, Nickie and my sister. I did actually catch a few minutes of this Raising Hope show on Fox a few weeks ago. Aaron said, "I like this show, it makes you laugh. Nothing makes you laugh." I am usually pretty serious, unless I'm tired- then I'm outrageously slap-happy.

22. Favorite games?
Jack Straws, Bananagrams, Sequence, mind games

23. Least favorite household chore?
Changing the sheets. But, true story, I sweep 2-3 times per day. I'm actually compulsive about it.

24. Do you have any pets?
No, I belong to four pesky creatures

25. Describe yourself in 5 words.
Driven, cautious, loyal, intelligent, curious

26. What would you say is your worst trait?
I'm a worrier and I perseverate on things way too much

27. One of your prized material possessions?
My musical instruments

28. Have you ever did anything heroic?
Yes, three years ago and also every 56 days

29. Are you friends with any of your exes?
Nope, and I don't plan to be.

30. Are you a safe driver?
I think the people driving behind me banging their steering wheel are better equipped to answer that question.

Ask my girlfriends, they'll tell you why they don't let me drive anywhere!

31. Any serious injuries in your life?
Not really. I'm healthy- see #28

32. Favorite music genre?
I get into patterns but, I still love the 80's

33. Favorite drinks?
Coffee, milk, water, and I drink one Powerade Zero per day- I'm certain it will kill me.
Oh and Diet Sunkist

34. Fears?
Losing someone I love, I worry about my clients, I don't care for heights and I always get this terrible urge, whenever I'm near water, that for some reason I'm going to take off my bridal set and throw it into the dark abyss. I don't know why.

35. Favorite breakfast foods?
Eggs, stuffed french toast, cheesy omelets with mushrooms, cream of wheat...

36. Favorite fast food?
Arbys! There aren't a lot around but if I see one, it's on, baby!

37. What vehicle have you had in your life that you miss?
1984 Saab 900 Turbo.
I miss my little red Jetta too.

38. From whom did you get your last text?
Hilary, that's a no brainer :) Love my 243

39. Where do you shop for clothes?
L.L Bean, Vicky's, EMS, Banana/Gap/Old Navy, American Eagle, Charlotte Russe, Urban Outfitters

40. Do you enjoy flea markets and/or yard sales?
Are you seriously asking me this? Duh!

41. Are you employed? If so, what do you do?
I am gainfully employed. See my resume below:

Jessica Molloy

• Household Administrator: 2007-Present (full time/volunteer) Duties include cooking, meal planning, paying bills, cleaning, writing out to-do lists for my husband, laundry, grocery shopping, party/holiday and event organization, sweeping, animal care and general upkeep.
• Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor/Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor/IOP Senior Clinician/Supervisor/Any other hat that fits on my head: 2007-Present (Salary) Duties include: Screening, assessment, and treatment; Group and Individual counseling, staff supervision and administration, micro-managing, and paperwork up the wazoo.
• Adjunct Professor of Human Services. 2010-Present. (Salary) Guide and instruct eager college students entering the field of psychology that, regardless of the meager pay typical of the human service field, if you find something you love to do, you never have to work a day in your life.
• American Red Cross 2010-Present (Volunteer) Registration of blood donors and Canteen service- I feed you once we've drained you.
• NH Audubon 2010- Present (volunteer) I play with birds.

42. Biggest accomplishment in the past 5 years?
Getting Married, Buying a House, graduating with my masters degree, getting a dream job, getting promoted, buying a brand-new vehicle, hurdling the bureaucracy of licensing boards and achieving my LCMHC, MLADC, getting a teaching gig

43. What was your most romantic date or vacation with your sweetie?
Everyday is special.

And PS. I hate the word "sweetie" so please don't use it again, thanks. Do you just think it sounds patronizing no matter how it's said?

44. Last person you called on the phone?
Nickie. Yes, I made the call. My fingers dialed. I'm weakening in my old age- y'all know how I feel about the horn.

45. What are you doing this afternoon?
Working. I've been known to do that. A little too much. As a matter of fact, I do 12 hour days two days per week. No, I'm not smoking crack- we all have our issues. I am afflicted with an overzealous, micro-managing work ethic.

46. Do you consider yourself spiritual?
Yes, I do what my magic-8 ball tells me.
I kid. I'm Catholic. I consider myself slightly religious. I don't have spirituality- I just don't understand the abstract nature of spirituality. I'd rather pray to the Father, Son and the Spook up in the sky- that is much more logical and concrete to me.

47. How many tattoos do you have?
4 or 5: it's an open debate in my household as to whether the paw prints count as one or two. I am looking into getting another. I love tattoos; bumper stickers on the map of life. I really really dig them and consider them art.

48. What is your favorite and least favorite holidays?
I love Halloween.
I am indifferent to Valentine's Day.

49. Do you have a cellphone; what kind?
Yes. I dunno. It's nice and it works other than that it's Aaron's department "Just make sure you get me one that has a keyboard so I can text!"

50. What is your bedtime?
I like to think it's 9:30. Realistically, 11:00

Wednesday, Oui? My Nose is growing!

Having divorced parents is a challenge for a lot of obvious reasons, however, one small perk would definitely be celebrating holidays more than once. This year we celebrated Christmas multiple times! I love Christmas (but not as much as my sister does) and I love to spend time with my friends and family. That said, my favorite part of Christmas is spending time at home with my husband and "kids."

The first of our Christmas celebrations started in Maine with my mother and Dan, and Nicki, Rich, Xander and Sarah (her FIRST Christmas!)

I'm the cool I-ya who bought Banana a guitar!

On Christmas Eve we went to Aaron's parent's house so we could basically celebrate a

Christmas for dogs. Boy were they spoiled!

Once home, we sat in front of our tree enjoying the remainder of Christmas Eve. We didn't stay up too late waiting for Santa because we were heading off to Boston early in the morning to celebrate Christmas Day at Matt & Nelsons!

We unwrapped a few things before we left that morning and let the "kids" have their stockings.

Merry Christmas, Lewis!

The final celebration took place on New Year's Day in Portland. My Dad, his girlfriend, my sister and her family and my brother and his wife all met at a restaurant to enjoy food, fun and time with Pepe.

Xander selected cranberry sauce from the salad bar-- which he later discovered was a beet.

He wasn't pleased.

Sarah LOVES her uncle-- and now that she isn't a tiny infant, I think Uncle isn't so terrified of breaking her.

Amity and Wally

This year I was given many nice gifts. There are a few that I will probably blog about simply because they are so thoughtful but, for me, Christmas isn't about the gifts. I am so fortunate to be living the life I do. Every day is a gift and I have so much to be grateful for. However, my favorite gift this year was a very meaningful gift from Aaron.

In early November I went shopping with Hilary and spotted a Jim Shore item; I love and collect Jim Shore. One of the items I fell in love with was completely out of character for me simply because it wasn't something that would normally fall into my decorating taste... unless I was decorating a baby's room. Hold the phone, hopefuls, I *AM NOT* pregnant, nor do I plan to be in the next 6 months (think: Alaska) but that doesn't mean my biological clock isn't ticking so loudly that I can't hear myself think! I don't know what it was about this Pinocchio Marionette but I really wanted it. Luckily, my bestie, Hilary, (unbeknownst to me) texted Aaron with all the details. You would NEVER believe my surprise when I opened the box at Christmas to find Pinocchio was mine!

As I sat in awe of Aaron's thoughtfulness he said, "I know it's not something we can use right now but it will be really cute in the baby's room." Obviously it's not a toy but more of a decoration. I have yet to purchase anything for our would-be child with the exception of books; I've held out on clothes, furniture and decorations. I love that Aaron took the leap and the fact that he's counting the days as much as I am, and we're so in sync, is the BEST Christmas gift ever. Oui?

Top Ten Tuesday: Two-Thousand-Ten accomplishments

As we close out another year I look back and wonder, "where did 2010 go?" As we begin 2011, I must relish in accomplishments of 2010.

1. I became dually licensed. I know I've bragged about this one-million-times but, it's a really big deal and it was a TON of work to get to the point of signing LCMHC, MLADC. I never want to get "used to it" or take it for granted because I am so incredibly privileged to access the education it took to get the knowledge necessary for my credentials.

2. We saved money. Now, we didn't save a TON but, it's more than we had in 2009 (and I am even building up my retirement account- maybe I'll be able to retire around 2071...)

3. I finally convinced cheapskate Aaron to let us buy a new camera; he caved and let me get a Canon. It's not my Canon Rebel (which I WILL own before we go to Alaska) but it's not the P.O.S we were using in 2009.

4. We (Aaron) built our dream shed!

5. I finally made it to see The Lion King in NYC!

6. I told myself I would read 12 books in 2010; I read all 12 and then some. Guess which book I plan to read in 2011? I'll give you 43 guesses. That's right, sorry haters, he's my man. You know you're jealous. I'll let you borrow it when I'm done, LOL.

7. I finally caved and let Aaron buy a television for our bedroom (*GASP*! That's story for another blog)

8. I took a ton of time off from work-- approximately 45 days including sick, vacation, comp and holiday! For me, trust that this is a HUGE accomplishment!

9. I entered the ranks of the Red Cross "one gallon club." In 2010 I hit my one gallon mark. Many more gallons to go but, I have a great friend, Jenn, who is my "blood sister"-- now we go together :)

10. I scratched one of my major life goals off my bucket list. I became a 29-year-old college professor. On the last day of class I had a party and celebrated the end of the semester with my students and one student summed it up for me when he said, "You took a class full of students and made us a family. You taught us not only as a teacher teaches her students but, as a mother teaches her children. You loved us." That was the biggest compliment as I took this responsibility so seriously and my students inspired me. They helped me to fall in love with the field of psychology all over again; for that, I am forever grateful. And I'm not going to lie, every time I heard a student say "Professor Molloy" I beamed on the inside a little.