Cool Jewels blog

Oh no, Poopaya!

2012-01-29T17:05:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday I dropped off Papaya at Colleen and Kevin's house.

Colleen had graciously agreed to dogsit for a week. She wasn't home when Papaya and I arrived, but Kevin welcomed us in. Pops wandered for a couple of minutes, tried to eat the cat food, and came back over to the table next to their kitchen.

I said, "Be a good girl."

Pops squatted and dropped a poop. This is not a trick we worked on. (Had things gone as planned, I would've followed up with "Shake." Which maybe isn't that impressive, but at least it's not a poop on your kitchen floor.)

Kevin took her outside, I cleaned up the mini-mess, and all was fine. (Carol's commentary when I told her the story: "He scared the crap out of her!")

The week went by without incident, Colleen said, except when she went to play tennis and Pops ate the sugar cookies that were in the bottom of a bag on the floor.

Naughty!

Other than those couple of things, Pops was a decent guest. Colleen walked her and introduced her to some other dogs (Colleen is a social director for dogs, too!).

Kevin also took good care of her, playing lots of frisbee and making sure she didn't overeat the treats. All in all, a good week. He offered to take care of her anytime. And gave her a new nickname: Poopaya.

Looking forward to 2012

2012-01-01T18:31:00.001-08:00

Every December I move the TV to make room for my Christmas tree. This year I wondered what life would be like if I never had to move that TV again. It was so heavy it warped the coffee table it was on.

My friends were puzzled. ("I have a small house. I have four TVs." "That wouldn't be so bad in the summer, but what are you going to do in the winter?" "Can't you just leave it there and not watch it? Or put it in the basement?") My parents offered to get me a new one. The current model was a Christmas gift from them in 2002, the year I bought my house.

I knew that nothing would give me more free time than giving away the TV.

Still.

No more Revenge, no more Packer games, no more episodes of The Cleveland Show that spoof Die Hard. (The year: 1988. The thieves were after a 27-inch TV. Just like mine.)

Instead, there is Hulu. And, I hope, more football parties at Chris' house.

I gave the TV away on Thursday. The house is so quiet!

But it helped to go out on New Year's Eve, where the party at Clyde and Sandra's proved to be a perfect distraction. Upstairs, we ate chicken and sandwiches and watched Pops, Sandra's 93-year-old dad, eat his jello shot with a spoon. Then we all played Sequence. It is oddly addictive in a Connect-Four-meets-Stratego kind of way.

After that, it was back to Clyde's man-cave for more wine.

A few minutes before midnight, Carol announced, "Well, it's been a rough year." We shared a laugh at her last-minute reflection on the disappointments of 2011. Ah, bygones.

It was a good night for a party — and for a TV.

We watched the ball drop in Times Square and toasted to 2012. Cheers to new habits! I wish you a year filled with friends, parties, and board games.

Oh no, Papa, not the harness!

2011-12-26T11:11:00.000-08:00

Watching a few episodes of The Dog Whisperer, my parents and I admired Cesar's ability to handle dogs. Sure, Papaya went through an extended naughty phase, but we counted ourselves lucky that she never freaked out at toasters, skateboards, or other dogs. I prided myself on how our walks seemed to calm her down and curb undesirable behavior.

Pops does still have her share of bad habits. When she's in the car, she likes to stand on the armrest, peeking forward and licking the driver's face.

So my parents bought her a harness that attaches to a seat belt. (Pops did not get excited about this gift.) We adjusted the straps and my dad took her for a walk — 'cause you can also clip it to a leash! All good.

When Pops and I left my parents' house, I buckled the harness into the center seat belt. She didn't look pleased but laid down anyway — submission! — and was silent during the ride.

So imagine my surprise when I opened the back door to let her out.

She was sans harness. What the? It was still strapped to the seat belt, but she had escaped. My fugitive dog had been completely and quietly disobedient.

Not to be deterred, I gave it another try today. I adjusted the straps, put her in the harness, and clipped her in. Then I started the car, turned to look at her, and watched her bend her front leg to slip out of the entire contraption.

Animals 3, Naomi 0.

A holiday tale: Baked goods

2011-12-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

For this year's gifts, I made mint brownies.

Whether it was the minty cream cheese filling or the chocolate frosting with Andes pieces, the winterfresh bars were a hit. No complaints at Highlander, work, or Jen's baby shower.

I also tried a new recipe: peppermint bark brownies.

They were more fudgy and less cakey than the winterfresh bars, but the peppermint bark topping was nice and crunchy. It's also less work to make only one kind of batter and skip the frosting step. So each of the recipes has its appeal.

I dropped off a plate of peppermint bark brownies on the back step at my neighbor Jody's house. A couple of hours later, she called to ask what was in them: her dog, Harry, had eaten every single one. As well as the aluminum foil that covered the plate.

Even though chocolate is toxic for dogs, he was okay. Phew.

The next morning, I dropped off a plate of peppermint bark brownies on the back step at my neighbor Lori's house. She does not have a dog.

I received a card from Lori, thanking me for the gesture:

"A funny thing... I came home, saw the bag from a distance. As I got closer I saw cupcake holders on the ground. 'Something' got in the bag and ate the goodies. The plate and card remained. :)"

I'm glad it's the thought that counts, because cupcake liners littering your porch make a pretty lousy gift.

Harry and the squirrels must really like peppermint bark.

Animals 2, Naomi 0.

Tuesdays with Willie

2011-11-16T19:50:00.001-08:00

I haven't seen Willie since he dropped me off at the airport. In 1994.

We're back in touch again thanks to Facebook.

Over coffee yesterday at The Grove, we caught up about the goings-on at the Japantown Benihana, which is where we met. Ah, the joys of waiting tables.

Willie has the distinction of being one of my only Japanese friends. (I told him this was a trip to see my ethnic friends. No joke.)

Speaking of ethnic stuff, he told me an unsettling story about how, after watching the Japanese version of The Ring, he got a bloody nose. (If you've seen The Ring, you'll know why this is disturbing.)

Post coffee, we decided to walk. Willie walks everywhere. Really. He can walk for nine hours with just a couple of food breaks.

I like walking. But living in Milwaukee, I'm out of practice, even with having a dog.

So I was unprepared for the San Francisco hills. Some blocks have steps built into the sidewalk but they're still difficult — even with Willie yelling, "Feel the burn!" I think we took this photo on Fillmore and Jackson. I can't recall exactly; I was lightheaded from the altitude.

Luckily Fillmore flattens out and we could take a break by stopping at Citizen Cake. I picked up a few things, and Linda and I ate cupcakes and cookies for days! Also, she took me to El Farolito, which had a line out the door and some of the best tacos ever.

But I digress.

Many things have changed since 1994: Cal football games are at AT&T Park, the Hard Rock Cafe near my old apartment closed, and businesses no longer use plastic bags (for real, Walgreens?!). It's a lot to process.

But to be able to take the 38 Geary, meet up with an old friend, and wander around the city, I am glad that is still the same.

Cheers to my Japantown friend!

Tuesdays with Lizzie (and Alexandra)

2011-11-16T18:58:00.001-08:00

It's been a while since Liz and I hung out. In fact, the last time we met for lunch was also a Tuesday in mid November at Rose's Cafe. Four years ago!

Things have changed. Now she and Michael have a beautiful baby, Alexandra.

Alexandra is such an easygoing baby. At 9½ months, she already seems to have a great sense of humor — can't you tell from the photo? — and some adorable tiny teeth. She ate yogurt nibs and a little polenta while Liz and I caught up.

After lunch, we strolled around Cow Hollow and laughed about stuff like taking the bus and what "walking distance" really means. We passed The Bus Stop (no relation to "taking the bus") and what used to be Cal's. After almost four hours, we finally parted ways.

I think we covered all the big topics: work, relationships, babies, siblings, parents. And of course a bit about our sorority sisters and who we've kept in touch with.

Liz, thanks for making time for me and for another wonderful lunch. See you on another Tuesday soon.

Football and G Phi B

2011-11-15T10:09:00.001-08:00

Ruth is a diehard Cal fan: she knows the team stats and once asked Jeff Tedford if he would meet her parents (jokingly, it would seem). So of course we went to the Cal vs. Oregon State game on Saturday. It was a nice kickoff to my northern California vacation.

We ran into Julie, another Gamma Phi — who's also a diehard fan and season ticketholder — and her son, Ben. At one point he looked at the scoreboard and asked, "When is it going to be higher than 7?" At 4 years old, he is already learning what it means to be a Cal fan. It's not the face paint, it's the waiting for the team to score.

As Ruth would say, "Heavy sigh."

But it turned out to be a good day for the Golden Bears: a win at their last home game!

Tennis: Midwest champs!

2011-11-06T13:44:00.000-08:00

Since our tri team won the state playoffs, I’ve had trouble thinking about anything but sectionals.

I had done everything I could to prepare: A lesson with Tom. Body sculpt and cardio. Practicing against different opponents, including Shappy and two guys in Bob’s drill for 3½ hours last Sunday.

Saturday finally arrived.

At 9 a.m. I met up with Patrice and Tim to carpool. We enjoyed non-stressful conversation during the drive, punctuated by Char calling from the other car to ask where we were. An hour and 45 minutes later, we arrived at the Tinley Park Chipotle.

After a leisurely lunch and another phone call from Char (“Where are you? Where is the Dixie exit?”), we arrived at the Homewood-Flossmoor club.

The place was abuzz. Four men’s teams were competing at sectionals. For the women, there were only two teams: Wisconsin and Northern Michigan.

Carol said that meant we had a 50% chance of advancing. I saw it as Patrice and me being responsible for 33% of the team’s fate.

Both were true.

We checked in. Got t-shirts. Thought about whether to pay to use the courts to warm-up. (Nope.) We listened while a USTA official announced the rules. All of our doubles teams walked onto the courts at 2:00.

I was nervous. And glad to be on the court farthest from the viewing. The 10-minute warmup blew by.

We got out to a quick start, 4-1. They brought it to 4-2, then 4-3. On a critical point, I missed an easy putaway. Ugh! (Really. That’s what I said.) So frustrating. But I decided that that was going to be the most emotion I showed during the match.

At some point it was 4-4. Not good.

But we refocused. We didn’t do much talking, but we took the set 6-4.

In the next set, we were up 3-0 but down 30-love. We came back to win that game, then the next two.

The server called the score: “15-40. Match point.” I’ve never played against anyone who’s done that. What an odd little mental thing. It reminded me of when Jess and I played a tiebreak in a social match and he said, “All the lessons, all the hard work, it all comes down to this.” He was joking but we lost.

Match point.

An overhead by Patrice. 6-4, 6-0.

I started crying. Patrice gave me a hug and then we shook hands with our opponents. We stayed on our court a couple of minutes after they left. We usually use the time to talk about the match, to calm down before going back to the socialness of the team. But there wasn’t much we needed to say.

Tim was there with high-fives and hugs when we came off the court.

Two courts left.

Mary and Pam E. were playing a nailbiter on the 4.0 court. They split sets and started a super tiebreak.

Tim, Patrice, and I reminded each other of the score after every point. Mary and Pam were up 4-2. And got to 7-4, 8-4, 9-4. We clapped and cheered even though they could not hear us through the glass.

They won. Patrice and I started crying. More hugs from Tim. We tried to quietly congratulate them when they came off the court; our opponents were still around.

From court 1, Char gave us all a thumbs up. She and Pam T. lost a close match — it really looked like they were going to take the second set. They are both tremendous players; this was Pam's fourth sectional playoff this year. And none of us would be here without Char!

Thus, my tears. Being on this team has been an amazing experience.

And it's not even over. Nationals will be three days of tennis at Indian Wells. Pack your bags and come cheer us on — won't you want a vacation in mid March?

One last thing: Thanks for all the good-luck emails and phone calls. And for saying, “I think you’re going to win.” I knew that we could, but it did not feel real until it actually happened.

Now it does. See you on the courts!

My birthday at O'Sullivan's

2011-11-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

I love November. Minus the changing weather and daylight savings time malaise, there are always at least three fun things that the month holds: my birthday, Thanksgiving, and the beginning of Christmas decorating.

This year's birthday drinks were at O'Sullivan's, a place I go to only occasionally but which is conveniently located. I really miss Sluggo's, but there was an altercation involving the tennis group so we don't go there anymore. Sad. I loved celebrating there, in a listen-to-Journey-and-use-coupons kind of way.

Actually, Pat drove to Sluggo's first to make sure they hadn't just changed their name to O'Sullivan's.

I arrived at 5:00 — on time — and sat by myself for 15 minutes with my ale. It felt like longer.

I questioned whether "No RSVP necessary" came across as "You don't really need to stop by."

But then Terry and Cathy and Keith and Craig and Drew showed up and suddenly it was not overly ambitious that I had staked out a table. Happy hour, indeed!

Patrice made pumpkin chocolate chip cupcakes (yum!) and we also enjoyed fried foods. And I got a balloon and a ginormous cookie. Don't ever underestimate the impact of a balloon or a ginormous cookie; they both make you feel loved. (And so does a bottle of single-malt scotch. Thanks, Mary and Stacy!)

This birthday celebration was terrific. Work friends, Milwaukee friends, tennis friends, friends of friends. Thanks for being there. You make aging fun!

Deb's milestone birthday

2011-10-23T07:44:00.000-07:00

On Friday we partied at Shappy's house in honor of Deb's 50th birthday.

Shappy grilled a turkey, and there were delicious side dishes like squash risotto. After dinner, he wove through the crowd and served Godiva shots in teensy martini glasses that Terry carried on a tray.

Tons of Deb's friends from tennis and sailing came to share in her celebration. And we all mingled. Colleen, especially. She told Larry, "Honey, the bathroom is locked." Only she doesn't know Larry; she meant to tell Kevin. Good thing it was a friendly crowd.

Patrice couldn't make it to the party, but she made sure the gnome continued on his travels to Deb. He hung out in the dining room watching the festivities (here he is ogling Sandra). The journey continues.

We stayed for hours (at one point, Terry was in the corner of the kitchen, gnawing on a turkey bone). It kind of felt like Thanksgiving but with way more people.

Happy birthday, Deb! You were one of my first friends at Highlander, and I wish you the best for your next 50 years. Cheers!

A party for Jess

2011-10-16T17:07:00.001-07:00

Jess will be leaving us for the greener pastures of Michigan for his new job. So on Friday we toasted him farewell at the Feldmans.

By the time he arrived (it was a heavy evening of partying for him because his work friends gave him a sendoff), we had all signed the posterboard card with heartfelt messages. Sandy, who gives new meaning to the term "graphic artist," added a map of Michigan that looked phallic but which she claims was not. And the steak-eating, tennis-playing T-Boners also used some colorful language.

Grillmaster Doug cooked up lots of burgers and hot dogs, and we sprawled out in the kitchen and living room watching the Brewer game.

After dinner we played ping pong in the basement. Brian won a close best-of-five, Hans schooled me, and Doug and Shappy discussed the legality of various serves.

I love house parties. Carol said she felt a bit partied out (partly due to the string of milestone birthdays in the last year). But I love hanging out with all my favorite people in one place. Particularly if that place is the home of somebody in the tennis gang.

A few years ago, after a few of us had been at a bar, Doug decided we should do a late-night pop-in at Jess' place. He was undeterred by the fact that Jess hadn't picked up his phone — several times.

When Jess opened the door, he was wearing a navy blue robe and rubbing his eyes. But you know what he said?

"I think I have some wine."

Because that is the kind of person he is — always making you feel at home, whether you're an uninvited guest or his partner on the court. Jess, we'll miss you. But we wish you the best. And because I hate goodbyes, let's just say, "See you around."

Oh no, Papa, not the doilies!

2011-10-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I came home from work to another tableau: Papa rearranged cake decorating supplies in the living room.

She shredded, she chewed, she showed no remorse. Surprisingly, she did not try to eat the edible alphabet letters, which confirms my theory that no one wants to eat those.

On a nicer note, Michelle helped me with the desserts for Jess' farewell party. She's a great troubleshooter when it comes to frosting. Thanks, Michelle!

Ladies who lunch

2011-10-09T21:03:00.000-07:00

Today I met up with Joanna for lunch in Kenosha.

When we worked at Nevin's, we used to eat lunch together often. Usually at the Fish Market — red beans and rice for her, something fried for me. Occasionally we would have dinner at Pete Miller's or drinks at The Mark, but we hashed out most of life's dramas over lunch at the Fish Market. (Or at Nevin's at table 41, Joanna said.)

That was 15 years ago.

When we caught up a bit at the Nevin’s reunion last summer, we talked about doing lunch.

Sure, Applebee's is a far cry from our fine-dining and almost-fine-dining days, but it was easy to find. It's good they sat us at a four-top because the appetizer sampler plate is very large. We ate mozzarella sticks, spinach and artichoke dip, quesadillas, and wings like we were still in our 20s.

We talked about everything — friends, family, boys, men, kids, dogs, happiness, the dramas of the day. There was so much in the present to catch up on, we didn't spend much time reliving the past.

And there is something so great about a friend who says, "I am going to give you some unsolicited advice."

Almost five hours later, we were still talking in the parking lot. Which is where we shot an entire series of photos where we accidentally cropped ourselves out. But this was my favorite.

Cheers to another great lunch. There's nothing like unsolicited advice from an old friend!

Brownies, brownies, and party, party

2011-09-18T12:32:00.001-07:00

Two parties, two batches of brownies. I stayed up late baking on Thursday and Friday nights.

For the alley party, I made brownies from a David Lebovitz recipe that Yukie said was her favorite.

Yes, they were good. But in an anticlimactic turn of events, my batch was among three that were brought to the party. Meh.

I also baked a batch of cheesecake brownies, another recipe from David Lebovitz. (Someone resourceful would've just made two batches of the same brownies.) This dessert had to be top notch, as Jean had instructed us to bring one of our special dishes.

Carol said they were good. But really, could any cheesecake brownie be bad? Is there a standard?

Jean has a beautiful house with a great patio for entertaining. Doug grilled a variety of meats, but I was proud of myself for having only one plate of food: a Hebrew National on a poppy seed bun with rice and buffalo chicken dip.

After dinner we moved inside and talk turned to the group's upcoming Florida trip. There was mention of geocaching and nude beaches. But Dan was skeptical: Apparently the trip usually consists of tennis, eating, drinking, and talking about how great everyone is at tennis. For a few days in a row. (This sounds like a really fun trip! Why have I never gone?)

Summer feels like it's truly over. But there will always be tennis and brownies and parties. And on a good night, even some scotch.

Tennis: State champs!

2011-09-11T20:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Patrice and I had playoffs at Lowell Park for our tri-level team.

On Saturday, Terry and I went to see the team win the first match: Gina and Yvonne won in straight sets after being down 5-4. And Pam and Mary came back from 5-1 to also win in straight sets. I was blown away by how relaxed but aggressive our teams were. Amazing!

It was great to see Jan and Nan and Jody and Patrice, too. They were there for senior and mixed doubles playoffs. Even the entourage is hardcore about tennis — next year I'll remember to bring my own lawn chair.

On Sunday, I arrived in time to see Patrice and James win their match. It was the third one they played in two days, but they did not look tired at all.

Then it was time for Patrice and me to play. Tim was there to cheer us on, and as we walked to the court, he said, "Did you eat Qdoba?"

Gasp. I did not.

I was nervous in the warm-up. But I've gotten used to that feeling. Fortunately I felt better once we started the match. Though we took the first set 6-1, we knew our opponents had more in store for us. Patrice had played — and lost to — one of the women the day before.

I didn't know until after the match, but Patrice told her, "I'm going to kick your butt." Which is very NOT Patrice, by the way. She thinks stuff like that but doesn't say it.

But she doesn't make promises (or threats) lightly. Though the woman hit a lot of winners in one of the second-set games, it was just not enough to overcome Team Noonimoto. (Okay, I will never use that nickname again.)

After winning the second set 6-3, we stood on the court talking. I was in shock. Patrice has been to Nationals (as have many of our 4.0 and 4.5 teammates), but this was my first playoff game.

And everything about it was wonderful: Playing outside on a beautiful September day. Hearing people applaud. Seeing our teammates Mary and Debbie come back to win their match. And now I even have a lucky towel that says 2011 Wisconsin State Champion on it.

After team photos and a gift for Captain Char, Patrice and I sat on the curb talking for a couple of hours. Her sister and brother-in-law drove up and said we looked like teenagers.

Finally it was time to end our fun, victorious day. To celebrate, I got a patty melt, fries, and a raging headache. Dehydration sucks. But that's my only complaint about the whole experience.

Next stop: Sectionals in Homewood, Illinois. Go Muskego High!

Ron's pig roast 2011

2011-09-11T08:05:00.000-07:00

Ron's annual pig roast is always a gluttonous affair. This year's theme: iPig.

The event did not disappoint.

I had a barbecued pork sandwich, broccoli salad, potato salad, pasta, and brownies with M&Ms. Ron's aunt also baked a delicious apple pie with Jack Daniels. Somehow I managed to skip the cake, a tri-level number with a pig on it.

On this year's invite:

"Technology is at its best when you can feel completely natural doing absolutely nothing that requires physical exertion."

Mission accomplished. I didn't manage to snap as many photos as I'd wanted. I definitely wish I'd gotten a photo of our host. But Ron must have been moving and mingling too fast for me.

Ron, instead I'll just say thank you for your generosity. And congratulations on the successful rollout of iPig!

Friends and fried food at Tosa Fest 2011

2011-09-10T13:52:00.000-07:00

Having spent some of our formative years in Wauwatosa, it was fitting that Denise and I dropped in at Tosa Fest on Friday night.

Over chicken tenders and sour cream & chive fries from Saz's (me) and a pork sandwich and Diet Coke from the Chancery (her), we caught up about friends and work.

And also cars. Specifically, how hard it is to say goodbye to a car. (No disrespect to the Corolla, but I still miss my Legend. Thankfully Denise bought an Acura, which she calls Barney.)

We also ran into my neighbors Kristie and Paul, as well as Butch and his wife, Pat, who offered to share their mini doughnuts with us.

We decided to walk over to the Dale's Donuts truck and order the cinnamon sugar minis. They are indeed made on the spot — and were so hot we had to put napkins around the bag to carry it.

Enjoying beautiful weather and piping hot doughnuts with a friend — a great start to the weekend!

Irish Fest 2011

2011-08-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

Another Irish Fest come and gone.

On Friday, we worked at the souvenir store at the north end of the Summerfest grounds. Because of the department-store-ish setup, we were more like t-shirt bouncers lurking at the fringes. It was a challenge to feel useful, but we got to step up and work the registers later that night. Way better (I love to do math in my head!).

We spent Sunday at the Marketplace, safely hemmed in by stacks and stacks of t-shirts. Here we are with the best sellers this year (this I determined from my tenure at the corner of the booth).

Then it was time for food. Per tradition, Denise had reuben rolls. I had a better-than-average shepherd's pie on Friday: the potatoes were swirled atop the ground beef. Yum! Next year I'll need to remember that it came from Trinity. And tonight I had a loaded baked potato.

Eating at a picnic table by the lake, it was hard not to mourn the ending of summer. But I wouldn't give up the fun of the fest, so I'll look forward to doing it again next year. See you there.

Tennis: Honey Badgers team party

2011-08-11T20:26:00.000-07:00

The Honey Badgers journeyed to the Firefly to celebrate our season.

We ate. We drank. We reminisced about our matches — the ones we won, the ones we didn't. That is my new euphemism: winning and "not winning." "Losing" is such a harsh term, and doesn't seem entirely accurate in describing us (unless we're talking about the Princeton bageling, ouch). It was a terrific season!

And a memorable party. Dianne, thank you for the heartfelt words. You are so gracious!

And everybody, thank you for the generous gift card. I'm going to use it for a lesson with Tom. Honey Badger needs a more consistent serve!

Some of the HBs couldn't be there, but Patty and I have party favors for you: notes from your teammates about what they admire in your game. Whether it was one word or many, I hope they'll be reminders of how you've contributed to our team's success.

I will miss you, Honey Badgers. Sure, we'll play permanent court time and maybe a tournament or two, but it's just not the same as seeing each other every week during the summer.

Not only did I love the excellent tennis, I also loved getting to know you better. I will miss all the phone conversations late at night, in the morning on my drive to work, and even occasionally during work.

Thanks for giving me lots to blog about. I'll also miss the strange exhilaration of staying up late after matches so I could make my Thursday morning deadline.

I can't wait to do it all again next year.

Go team!

Mixed troubles

2011-08-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

Though I've loved playing lots of tennis this summer, one thing I've missed out on was Monday Night Tennis. For MNT, Jean organizes four courts of mixed doubles at Brookfield Central.

Tonight, a few minutes into hitting, it started to rain. Almost everyone decided to go for an early dinner.

But Terry and I stayed and played against Dan and Mary.

"Safety first" — i.e., not running for a ball because the court was slippery — ensured that this wasn't the best tennis ever.

Mary asked, "Are you going to blog about this?" She was kidding, but I like a (moderate) challenge.

It continued to drizzle. The balls got waterlogged. Oosh.

But this being my first Monday of tennis this summer, I was glad to be out there hitting badly. (If you're wondering, Dan and Mary took the set, 6-4.)

So then we went to Hooters. Apparently Becky wanted to "try something new" last week, and this was also the choice tonight.

We sat at the same table as last week. I think we even sat in the same seating arrangement. My burger was just okay (better than the buffalo nuggets and stumpy fries I had before).

When Kevin and Colleen arrived, he said, "We're here to meet a bunch of morons."

The hostess said, "The tennis people are over there."

Mediocre tennis and mediocre food? Sounds like an okay Monday to me.

Tennis: Honey Badgers final 2011 match

2011-08-03T20:51:00.000-07:00

Tonight we trekked to Oconomowoc Lake Club for the last match of our season.

It was a night of sunshine, tennis whites, and only a few mosquitos.

At #2 singles, in only her second match of the season, Melanie was the first person to finish. She played with a lot of poise — and topspin! — and won 6-4, 6-2. Melanie, you did great tonight. Congratulations on your perfect record! And thanks to Mike and Katie, who also came to cheer her on. (Katie, I also enjoyed hanging out with you and hearing about who else you're playing tennis with!)

At #1, Kelly did her best against the opponent she played five weeks ago. Though she didn't come away with a win this time, she played hard and I could tell both players had a great time out there. Kelly, your sportsmanship is commendable (and represents all of us!).

At #1 doubles, Jean and Marilee won in straight sets. Marilee has played with five different partners this season and adapted easily. Thanks for being such a flexible and versatile player! And Jean, way to end your season with a strong finish. (Sidebar: If you haven't already, be sure to congratulate Jean and Jan on advancing to playoffs with their senior team. Go Senior Honies!)

After losing the first set, Dianne and Sandy took the second. They played riveting tennis. I couldn't figure out what was different about Sandy tonight. I thought it was the sunglasses; Patty said, "She put her competitive face on."

We were having so much fun hanging out, Dianne had to shush us. (Sorry, Di. We were in our own little world.) It was so exciting to see you both excel against a very competitive team. Top-notch tennis and sportsmanship to match — a fitting end to your season.

As the sun was setting, Beth and Colleen were giving it their all. After losing the first set, they brought the second to a tiebreak. And won it! You two showed great mental toughness. Colleen, I loved how you hit sky-high lobs. And returned them, too! And Beth, way to fall down and get right back up. Literally. You are such a resilient player. Even though your opponents ultimately won the match, it was inspiring to see how hard you made them work for it. Very honey badgerish!

Tonight we also celebrated Colleen's birthday, the year of which she would not divulge ("It's not a milestone," she said). So we hung out in the clubhouse and reminisced while Colleen read birthday cards at arm's length.

Happy Birthday, Colleen! And happy end-of-season, Team!

Our season overall: 31 and 19, for a solid second-place finish.

Tremendous year, Honey Badgers! I'm looking forward to celebrating with you next week.

Papaya as a puppy

2011-07-31T10:18:00.000-07:00

I received this photo yesterday and it made my day.

Having adopted "Maiah" when she was 8, I had no idea what she'd looked like as a pup.

In the summer of 2000, Jason and Jessica adopted her — when she was only 12 weeks old. Look at her tiny tail and big feet!

She grew into her features, as dogs do. The pads of her paws are no longer pink and I can't pick her up, but she's still every bit as adorable, with the same white socks and quirky smile.

Now she's 11 years old — 11 and a third, really. I took this photo today.

Bundle of joy to bundle of oh boy: Doesn't she look like a mutt capable of dastardly deeds? Yet I'm really lucky that Jessica and Jason gave her to me. She is a great character!

Maiah-Papaya, you have always been loved.

Tennis: Honey Badgers’ loss

2011-07-27T20:20:00.000-07:00

I knew Princeton would be challenging, but the fact that we beat them on their home courts in our first meeting had given me hope.

At #1 singles, Sandy truly put up a honey badger fight — and came away with the closest match of the night, a 7-5, 6-3 loss. It was wonderful to see you and Wendy talking afterward about what a great match you had. And you aced her a couple times? Tremendous!

At #1 doubles, Patrice and I had our first loss of the season at 3.5. Being down 5-0 in the second set, I said, "Any ideas?" And she said no and laughed. That actually made me feel better. And then we won three games! I wish we could have played longer and taken it to a third set; there is no one else I would rather strategize with. I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to say goodbye to you, but I hope you weren't plagued by nightmares about Jan crazily piloting a pink couch.

Becky and Jan, Carol and Jean, and Lisa, I didn't get to talk to you about your matches — after our team lost, maybe we didn't all feel like sharing the specifics. (If you did, we can still do that!) I will say that Jean, I'm glad Amy didn't take out your eye. She definitely has some honey badger qualities, too.

Patty, the homemade nuts and caramel brownies helped ease the pain. But I especially appreciated you staying late and talking. Not as much fun as our Sunday brunches, but sitting in the near-dark having someone to reflect with was just what I needed.

Beth, Dianne, Katie, Colleen and Kevin, Dan and Mary, Eric, Terry, and Jennifer, thank you so much for cheering us on. I know there are many things in life other than tennis, so it meant a lot to me that you were there.

My friends also deserve some props. Chris, I appreciate the good wishes and conversations about Biofreeze. Hal, thanks for the many Mexican lunches. Kelsey and the jewelry Janes, it's so thoughtful that you ask how things are going. Kelsey, I loved all the fist pumps, good luck texts, and "You can do it!"s. And Keith, you are the best for dropping off wine. I'm lucky to be surrounded by terrific people in tennis and in life.

Yes, this was a tough night. At 29 and 16 (compared to Princeton's 37 and 8), we are now out of the running for playoffs.

But I am so proud of our team and our efforts. Everyone played hard. And if we were going to get swept, who better to do it than the team that came in second at state last year?

As always, onward!

Go team!

Tennis: Honey Badgers’ seventh team win

2011-07-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

Honey Badgers win again!

Tonight was our second meeting with Le Club. This time, we played on the air-conditioned courts at Highlander — such a relief in this ridiculously hot weather.

Yesterday, I saw Jody, Le Club's captain, win a singles match for our 4.0 team (yay!). I tried to get her to drink beer afterward so she'd be hung over, but she did not fall for it. And I had only one beer.

What I love about Jody is that she is casual and friendly — sure, bring the lineup on a post-it! — but she wants to win. (Just ask her teammates on any of the five teams she's on.)

She and Jessica played #1 doubles against Jan and Becky tonight. They cruised to a 3-0 lead.

But then Jan and Becky, who also want to win (always!), decided to radically change their game. Instead of power hitting and volleying, they started lobbing. A lot.

Team Jecky came back to win it 7-5, 6-3.

What I really admire is their ability to change their game. That is a difficult thing to do — especially to keep at it when you're down. So, phenomenal job, both of you — not just at winning, but at respecting and trusting each other enough to forge ahead with something different.

On the second court, Sandy and I played together and won 6-1, 6-2. Any anxieties I had about playing with a different partner disappeared as soon as we started the warmup. Sandy is a terrific partner. And tonight she was also really good-natured when I yelled "Bounce it!" (i.e., she let it bounce and did not refer to me as "Mother"). Seriously, she is having an incredible season, and I felt lucky to share in it tonight. Thanks for letting me play the deuce side, too. Mother loves the deuce side!

After we finished our match, I hung out upstairs.

Jean and Carol split sets. Terry and I saw Carol walk past us before they started the third. We waved, but she didn't see us. She was in a zone. I didn't get to talk to Jean, but you can always expect her to bring the fight. Maybe because she tells you in emails that say stuff like, "I'll be there, ready to win!!!"

The Le Club ladies played hard — fantastic volleying! — but the red team triumphed over the blue. Later, over some celebratory wine, Jean put on her Honey Badger shirt and gave Carol some crap about her serve. Jean is apparently fierce to her teammates as well as her opponents. But hey, it works! She brought her unique brand of motivation to last week's three-setter and won that one as well.

Good job, Carol and Jean! Another W for you.

The longest matches: singles.

At #1, Lisa played the same opponent she played last time. They are both really strong players. She was down in the third set, 4-1, but changed her strategy. (I love learning this stuff in the post-match powwow!)

She got two more games before Carolyn won. Singles can be a lonely game, but you really stayed in it tonight. Way to compete: 26 games!

And then there was one.

Katie.

She and Zara played long, long, long points. While we were standing behind the glass watching, Jessie (from Le Club) walked away to get food. She came back and they were still playing the same game. I figured that they must have been at deuce. Zara took the game.

But Katie hung in there.

She stayed calm, even though her dad was watching and all the other matches had ended. And she did not look tired. At all.

Great job, Katie: You have amazing stamina and mental toughness, to have come back from a first set loss to win it! We're all proud of you.

Thanks to everyone who cheered us on. It makes the whole experience even better, seeing our friends and family (Terry, Dave, Molly, Lynn, Joe) cheering us on. Kelly, I love that you stayed the whole night and shared in our success. (And Patty, thanks for accepting my obsessiveness. I'm glad someone does!) Love the team spirit!

After our eighth week, we are 29 and 11.

Go team!

Tennis: Honey Badgers’ sixth team win

2011-07-13T21:21:00.001-07:00

The Honey Badgers journeyed to Pleasant Valley tonight.

The ladies from the valley of pleasantness were kind, but they weren't about to hand over any matches. I wouldn't expect anything less from a team that's been to Indy three times.

That said, Lisa was the first person off the court, after a 6-1, 6-0 victory. Way to go! (Your opponent told me she wished you made more unforced errors. Obviously you didn't. You were her first loss of the season.)

At #1 singles, Kelly put up a fight: 19 games before her opponent closed it out. It was a top-notch effort against a consistent hitter (who's also playing 4.0).

And though I doubt a cliché will make you feel better, I'm going to put it out there anyway: Have faith that it's never over till it's over. Really. The next point is always up for grabs, so know that you can win it. Keep fighting the good fight! (Okay, two clichés in one paragraph is overkill. But I've had to repeat them all to ease the pain of the 6-2, 6-0 drubbing Patrice and I suffered last night. "Lesson in humility." "Learning experience." "Will make me a better player." Yup, I know them all. And Beth, thanks for your calm reassurance sans clichés.)

Now back to the matter at hand:

In doubles, Colleen and Marilee played on a different court than assigned and forgot to update the score cards, but it all worked out: They rallied to win, 7-5, 6-1. It was amazing to watch their combination of aggressiveness and patience — and how they got into a rhythm of the right shot at the right time. Well played!

Dianne and Sandy also played a great match: After losing the second set, they won the third.

6-0.

No question, they wanted to win. Love it! You two are solid as partners and as all-around teammates. And great work at staying undefeated, even with different partners.

The last match to finish: At #1, Jan and Jean played a nailbiter.

They volleyed. They lobbed. They split sets.

Jean compared Jan to her 4.5 mixed doubles partner, saying, "Ron would have gotten that."

Somehow this motivated the power hitter in Jan. After being down in the third set, they came back to win it, 7-5. Holy Honey Badgers! It was brilliant tennis; their opponents played well, too, which makes the victory even sweeter.

Post-tennis, we shared subs, salad, key lime pie, and cream puffs. The PV team is a gracious group, and I enjoy the ritual of sharing a meal.

The hard-fought victories have brought us to our 25 and 10 record.

Go team!

Tennis: Honey Badgers’ fifth team win

2011-07-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

Another team win!

We played tonight's match indoors at Bluemound, which to me is one of the toughest places to play. Being indoors is great in the winter, but when it's summer and the fans make noise without really cooling, well, that depletes my energy.

But enough about the conditions. Here's the rundown:

At #1 singles, Kelly gave it her best against Peggy. I did not see the match, but I could tell from her face afterward (red!) how hard she had worked. Kelly, we love, love, love your effort and your stamina.

On the second court, Katie won her match 6-2, 6-1. She is a quiet winner, our Katie, stealthily beating her opponents. Though I'd love to know her secret, there's no point in overanalyzing what works (subtle fist pump here).

At doubles, we all had decisive straight-set wins. Patrice and I finished at 6-1, 6-1. I felt like we were more like ourselves tonight with set-ups and put-aways. And I even ate a chicken crunch salad for lunch instead of Qdoba. Crazy, isn't it?

Beth and Colleen won 6-1, 6-2. They also won when we played the Bluemound team at our first match. I didn't start blogging until the week after, but their win that night was a bright spot in our overall team loss. Glad to see history repeat itself! You make a good team.

Dianne and Marilee, who have both played with several different partners, won 6-0, 6-1 in the dungeon, the separately enclosed court. Nice! Marilee subbed for Sandy, who had a suspicious story about an injury while fixing the over-algae-fied pond. (I'm just kidding. Sandy, we need you healthy. Glad you rested tonight.)

Sandy's injury didn't keep her from coming to cheer us on. I love that. Lisa, thank you, too, for staying to the end on a busy work night. And Jean, you put my worry to rest with your willingness to be a last-minute sub.

All of us — our opponents included — are Highlander members. Three years ago, I was on their team. They were my introduction to summer league and permanent court time. There were book clubs and parties. We go way back.

So it's a crazy tangle of emotions, because I never want my friends to lose.

But the season goes on. And our record improves to 21-9. Cheers to all my teammates, past and present.

Go team(s)!

Tennis: Honey Badgers’ fourth team win

2011-06-30T11:23:00.000-07:00

Last night we continued our streak with a team win over Oconomowoc Lake.

Kelly, our #1 singles player, cheerfully played outside on the lone available clay court. Though the court conditions weren't ideal, she toughed it out and won in straight sets. Great consistency and tenacity!

At #2 singles, Melanie made her team debut looking relaxed and confident. She also turned in the night's most dominant performance at 6-0, 6-3. We're all proud of you, Melanie!

Carol and Jean played hard and stayed focused to stave off a late-match rally from their opponents. They won, 6-4, 6-4. And Carol, way to finish with an ace!

At #1 doubles, Colleen and Jan split sets. They were a very competitive team and played terrific tennis. I had to leave for Summerfest but wish I could have stayed to cheer them on. Patty later left me a voice mail: In a valiant effort, they lost the third set. But taking it to three sets against a solid team: great!

Awesome focus and play on all of our indoor courts — even with Doug wandering by and yelling, "Honey Badgers!" A couple of times. Our mascot is very vocal.

I stopped at Brookfield East to catch the end of Marilee and Sandy's match. I missed the comeback of the night (well, unless you count Hall and Oates): They were down 5-1 in the first set and won it 7-6 (tiebreak score was 7-2, if you were wondering). Then they took the second set, 6-2.

Way to go, both of you. And in your first match together!

Halfway through the season, our record is 17 and 8. Our team just gets better and better.

Go team!

Oldies but goodies: Hall and Oates

2011-06-29T23:15:00.000-07:00

I've never been to Summerfest when there were so many people at a side stage.

I wandered away to get some reuben rolls and when I came back, I couldn't find Keith in the masses of people watching fireworks. Thankfully we met up at Saz's and found some space near the t-shirt stand.

Hall and Oates are totally worth seeing, even if you have to go to a 10 p.m. show on a school night. Totally!

I had really tried to get a group together. But when I asked my work friends if they like H2O, most of them shot me down (some more politely than others):

"I like to make fun of Hall and Oates."

"No. Do you?"

"I guess I wouldn't change the station."

"I don't know. Do I?"

Sure, there were some promising answers. It was heartening to hear "My friend and I used to always go to the bar and play Private Eyes" and "I anticipate screaming like a 13-year-old on The Ed Sullivan Show during a Beatles appearance."

In the end, the huge crowd and a star sighting made me feel better. "Even Barry Alvarez loves Hall and Oates!" Keith said.

The time flew by in an 80s flashback. I could barely see (particularly the diminutive Oates, even in his melon-colored shirt), but I loved hearing Maneater, Family Man, Sara Smile, and Adult Education. There was only one song I didn't recognize, something from the 70s. Otherwise, it was one great tune after another.

In their first encore, they played You Make My Dreams — one of my favorites, that toe tapper! For the second, of course, it was Kiss on My List. If I were taller, I would have seen Oates play the guitar with his teeth.

The final song was — clap clap — Private Eyes.

Going to an H&O concert should be on your bucket list. Their music is one of the best things in life.

Tennis: Honey Badgers’ third team win

2011-06-22T21:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight we traveled to the cavernous building that is Princeton, to take on the top team in our flight. Before our match, they were 13-2. They went to playoffs last year.

So we had our work cut out for us.

After doing some juggling because of schedules, I emailed Patty and mentioned different lineup options. "Stay with your first instincts," she said.

I kept the original lineup, putting Patrice and me at #2 doubles.

So, did you know that Princeton has low ceilings? Yet I could not stop lobbing. I'm sure the people watching from the viewing area upstairs were puzzled by this. I know I was.

Amy slammed plenty of overhead winners at us. And yet somehow we got through it. (It's not that I say this casually. I just couldn't tell you specifically what we did to get through it.) But we did: 7-6, 6-3.

Becky and Jan took their court in three sets. They are so terrific together, and I knew Becks would have her game face on when she called to tell me she arrived an hour early. (Okay, it was by accident, but still.) I never, ever underestimate the two of them as a team.

And Sandy! Not only did she win in straight sets, she came back from a 4-0 deficit in the second set to take it 7-5. Wow! Could you do that in your first singles match of the season? I love the spirit and toughness!

Beth, Marilee, and Lisa, kudos for going out there and playing honey-badger style. You had to take on the best of the best, being in the #1 spots. We know how tough that is (I've had to play Wendy twice — unfortunately, she is a honey badger, too). Way to play hard!

And Carol and Dianne and Patty, thank you for staying till the very end and sharing cake for Beth's birthday. There was lots to celebrate.

Tonight was truly an achievement: Four weeks into the season, we are the only team to win against Princeton. The only!

I'll leave you with a reminder — the good luck message that Jean, who couldn't play tonight, sent all of us before the match:

"You can beat 'em. Don't forget who we are. The fierce, fighting Honey Badgers!"

Go team!

An eventful night of tennis

2011-06-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

Tonight's match — like most — had great shots, unforced errors, energy, fatigue, the usual highs and lows. But also a lot more.

Patrice and I started our match outdoors at Western. It was a muggy night — lots of rain during the day — and I said, "At least my muscles will be loose."

When I went to retrieve a ball after a point, I slipped and fell on the muddy grass. Good thing my muscles were loose. (Patrice fell earlier today, too, riding her bike in the rain.)

And my toe hurt. Not from falling but from tripping on the couch on Saturday. So it felt great to fall and not get injured. Seriously, I was grateful!

We won the first set. Then the skies rumbled and our opponents Julie and Karen suggested we nab an indoor court before anyone else did.

Inside, we lost the second set. They were up 5-3 when it was my turn to serve. The lights went out. In the dark I said, "30-love." Maybe this would also be a reprieve for my serve, which had gone into hiding.

We took a break waiting for the halogen lights to come back on. Ann, our captain, offered me an Advil.

A few minutes later, we resumed play at 30-love. We won that game but lost the next one.

The third set, we were either tied or down a game. I tried not to get nervous when they were up 5-4.

Then we were up at 6-5. I could hear people clapping. For us, for them. Did we close it out? No. Julie held serve.

I'm getting a lot of experience playing tiebreakers. Finally, almost three hours after we started, we won and shook hands with Julie and Karen. And when we came up the stairs, the first thing we heard was the Western team telling us, "Great match!"

It was even better being able to celebrate with our teammates Ann, Jessica, and Jody. And Carol, thanks for giving me the emergency tape for my toe.

Our first 4.0 win! But no time to relax. We'll have another tough match tomorrow.

Tennis: Honey Badgers’ second team win

2011-06-15T20:38:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the score tells only part of the story.

Tonight our team won four courts against Le Club. Though we did this in straight sets, the scores don't always reflect how hard we had to work.

But first, a little backstory. I’ve known Jody, the Le Club captain, for years. Occasionally our mixed teams have crossed paths or we've met up in a tournament. But we also play together on another team — and it’s an odd relationship to one day be teammates and the next day, opponents.

But Jody is used to this, as she has tons of experience captaining and playing on different teams. Last week she cheered for Patrice and me. Tonight, she and Suzy were our opponents.

And how!

Patrice and I won the first set, then saw our efforts slip away into a 4-1 deficit in the second. My Gatorade wasn’t kicking in, either. I still made a lot of unforced errors. (Also, the very large pre-match lunch at Jose’s may have slowed me down. You know what’s great about Qdoba? Portion control.)

At some point, we arrived at 6-all. The tiebreak was a blur. I don't mean it went fast, I mean I don't remember it. This was the most exhausting match I've played in almost two years. But we did it! And next week, Jody and Patrice and I will again be on the same team, encouraging each other.

Two courts away, Carol and Jean launched their own comeback, rallying from a 5-2 deficit to take the first set 7-5. Then they won the second. Two words: mental toughness.

On court 2, Jan did not disappoint in her season debut. Becks commented, “She’s a wonderful player and she kicked me in the butt.” Not literally. They got it done together, 7-6, 6-4. Great job!

At singles, Katie took a straight-set victory: 6-1, 6-1. Impressive! Katie, I wish I had gotten to see you play.

Lisa took Le Club’s #1 singles player to three sets in a match that lasted two hours. That is a heckuva long time to be playing competitive tennis. Fantastic, Herculean effort!

I was so focused on the post-match Jimmy John’s and cookie assortment, I forgot to record scores. Colleen, thank you for doing that and giving me some time to hang out with our friends. Ron, Matt, and Abbey, it was also nice to know there was someone else rooting for us. I loved that you were there.

Go team!

Tennis: Honey Badgers prevail

2011-06-08T20:25:00.000-07:00

Here's my recap of tonight's match. I'll try to do them weekly — though, no promises. (I already missed last week.)

So, without further ado: We had a team win — four courts! — against Pleasant Valley.

All of our doubles courts won in straight sets. Dianne and Jean, who never play together, were especially impressive in their 6-0, 6-1 victory that took less than an hour. Tremendous!

Becks was our 11th hour sub after Marilee couldn't play. She and Beth have years of experience playing together, and neither of them was thrown by the last-minute change. Becky clearly did not have first-match jitters (as I did), and Beth has won both of her matches. Yay!

I'm also thrilled for Katie, who won her singles match (also in straight sets). Katie is not one to toot her own horn, so if you see her, tell her what an awesome job she did!

Lisa had a tough match at #1 singles — she played great and battled her opponent in the longest of tonight's matches. It was a terrific effort, and the second set was extremely close at 7-5.

Our team had been assigned court 1 and courts 5 through 8. At one point on court 8, a player was down. I couldn't do anything about it, as I was three courts away and in the middle of a match. Still, it was not a good feeling to ignore someone in distress. But I knew Patty saw what happened, and she never flips out about anything — including when Sendik's didn't have our food order ready — so I knew she could take care of the situation. (It turns out that the player was from another team and had started cramping in an epic third set.)

Tonight was something of a strange night, marked by moments of thunder. (Literally. Glad we played inside.) Also, Patrice told me I looked tired. I was! It turns out Gatorade is not a magical elixir.

Thank you to Carol and Colleen, who stayed until the very end. We can't always play spectator-worthy tennis, but knowing someone is rooting for you does make a difference. And this team plays together, parties together, and prays together. Colleen and I don't pray, but she knows what I mean.

Go team!

PS: I should give credit to Doug, who gave us our team name. If you didn't already know, the honey badger is immune to snake bites and bee stings. It overpowers bigger, stronger animals. It can also run backwards (something I'd love to be able to do). See where we're going with this?

Addie and Dustin's wedding reception

2011-05-14T09:36:00.001-07:00

On Friday, Jane and I went to Addie and Dustin's wedding reception at Mikeys (mi•key's), which is a great space right down the street from Elsa's.

Addie looked gorgeous in her dress, just like in their surprise Florida wedding.

She and Dustin are a perfect match: both of them are fun and adventurous. The first time I met Dustin, he was wearing a teal t-shirt and parachute pants — at my 80s-themed birthday party. This is a guy who really knows how to go for it in life. Who else could get Addie to go on two dates in one night? Theirs is one of those "We knew it right away" love stories.

Dustin’s brother Jordan, who had worn a mesh half-shirt and acid-washed jeans to the party, regaled me with post-party stories. The gist: He had gone to a few bars and people were not friendly, but he hitched a few rides to ultimately end up in Walker's Point. Thumbs up!

And now back to the reception: The boys and Addie had constructed a photo booth, complete with props. This provided much entertainment as the Kalmbach girls (Addie, Serene, Kristin, Jane, me, Lindsay, and Alison) crammed our way in. It will be interesting to see if the sword or goggles made it into any of the shots.

Later I sampled the crostinis, crudites, and cakes. Yes, cakes. So many cakes, they didn’t all fit in the picture. I ate two pieces (a welcome respite from my anti-sugar campaign, which is a story for another time).

Fun night, fun people. Cheers, Addie and Dustin!

Turning on a dime

2011-05-10T18:08:00.000-07:00

My friend Mary often says, "Life can turn on a dime." I agree. Things can change quickly, in any direction.

But the dime itself, how often do you think about it?

At my tennis lesson today, Tom had me practice my serves. Which I needed lots of work on — they were terrible on Saturday. ("What's with the Zembinski arm?" my friends asked. "Really?" Dianne said after I double-faulted for the zillionth time. The serves were not good.)

So Tom walked away and came back with...

A dime.

He put it under the tip of my ring finger while I held my racquet. My fingers had been flying off the grip when I served.

Not anymore! My serve has turned on a dime. (And with a dime.)

Sure, I could bend my legs more and swing harder and control the toss better. But hanging on to the racquet is a good start.

Thanks, Tom!

Oh no, Papa, not the batteries!

2011-05-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

Papaya ripped open packs of batteries, scattering some in the kitchen and playing with others in her special place in the living room. (It doesn't look like she ate any. Phew.)

When it comes to chewing and shredding, Pops is something of a DieHard herself.

But Papa, enough with the super-charged playtime.

Good to be back

2011-05-04T22:03:00.000-07:00

I haven't been blogging or playing tennis lately, and I've really missed both.

Yesterday on court 3, Rick, John, Carl, and Fred were playing doubles. One of them said, "You're here for a comeback!"

It was a warm welcome as Tom K. and I walked onto court 4 — he wisely kept me away from the "show courts." This was my first time playing tennis since injuring my arm in February.

A comeback suggests a good result, and I wouldn't say that things were quite so grand. Tom tried to fix my backhand grip, letting me know what he could and could not live with. At one point, he asked what I was thinking about as I was hitting. "Just trying to get the ball back." Such modest goals.

But my K-Swiss with nubby laces, the smell of not-quite-new tennis balls, seeing my Tuesday night group (whom I play with only once a month anyway) — all of it seemed new. And all of it was great.

Like coming home.

Patrice and the gnome

2011-04-12T20:48:00.000-07:00

It was time for the gnome to continue his journey.

I've been wanting to redecorate my living room, but the gnome's been perched on the bookshelf behind the couch, watching my every move. Also, he's very heavy.

So now he can live with Patrice and Tim, and she can pass him along at the next milestone birthday — which we think might be a couple of years away unless we add new people to the group.

On Monday, we had a mellow celebration with nachos, potato skins, cupcakes, cosmos, and gumballs — all good birthday treats. There were cards and gifts and a few off-color jokes, which we explained to Shappy.

And though we kept it low key per the birthday girl's request, apparently a lot of people at tennis said "Happy FIFTIETH birthday!" Not so low key.

Good thing Patrice has a good sense of humor. Happy birthday, Partner!

Three things at BeadStyle

2011-04-11T13:59:00.000-07:00

It's a busy week here at work.

First, I wanted to share my newest cover design. I've always loved Lucite, so it was a no-brainer to do something colorful for May. (Well, maybe not quite a no-brainer, as I tend to over-deliberate on everything.) I'm also becoming a fan of orange and yellow and am trying to work them into my wardrobe without looking like a pumpkin or bumblebee.

Another new thing: I've got an online column about jewelry. Check out my first "Naomi knows" at BeadStyle's Bead Room.

Last, it's my eight-year anniversary at Kalmbach this Thursday. I will be maniacally baking cupcakes and navigating the challenges of cream cheese frosting. I could really use some help with the frosting (too runny!), so send any tips my way.

Jewelry and gelato

2011-04-10T18:43:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Kelsey and I taught jewelry making classes on High-Interest Day at Washington Elementary.

It was fun and a bit easier than last year, when everyone got done stringing at the same time and we had to finish a bunch of necklaces in just a few minutes.

Fortunately we had the brilliant idea of finishing one end of the wire before we handed out the kits — which saved time and resulted in fewer dropped beads.

Still, the kids kept us busy.

One of the first things we heard: "I didn't want jewelry! I wanted gelato."

After we introduced ourselves, one of the boys raised his hand. "I need help," he said.

Also overheard:

"These look like marbles. I'm just sayin'."

"Are you a senior?" (This to Kelsey, of course, not me.)

And my personal favorite, as a fourth grader laid down in the corner:
"Do you have nap time?" (No.) "Then why do you have an awesome carpet?"

Good thing kids are resilient and move on from disappointments like dropped beads and no gelato. Everyone — including Kelsey, Jenna, and me — had a great time, just like last year.

Afterward, Kelsey and I had lunch in the gym: sandwiches, chips, and dessert — caramel sea salt gelato.

Glorious weather

2011-04-05T21:22:00.000-07:00

Contrary to popular belief, it does rain in southern California.

But it was all blue skies last Thursday when Gloria and I had lunch on the patio at the Bonaventure.

So here's one last photo of my trip: being in downtown L.A. in record-breaking heat (92 degrees). We enjoyed our chicken salads before realizing how hot it was.

Visiting family in California

2011-04-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

On my one-day visit to northern California, my Aunty Dorothy and I went to lunch with my Aunty Mishi and Uncle Min.

Mishi and Min are 94 years old. Aunty has trouble with things we take for granted — her hearing isn't so good and she needs help walking.

But she still has her appetite. She loved the California rolls and shrimp tempura, and she laughed about eating the extra rice.

Back in L.A., Yukie and I went to The Counter, a build-your-own burger place, with our cousin Kay and her husband, Wayne.

It was an evening of burgers, fries, onion rings, and good conversation.

Congrats, Kay and Wayne! And Wayne, welcome to the family.

March Madness 2011

2011-03-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

Even though it's snowing, I like to pretend that warmer days are just around the corner. On my New York trip, I saw lots of blue and green jewelry — signs to welcome spring.

And I just happened to have this giant gummy bear in a pretty peridot (or "green apple") color. He was a Christmas gift from Yukie, and I brought him to the office to share. What's crazier than a huge chunk of gelatinous candy?

With spring-like enthusiasm, Kelsey and I had both dressed up to support our respective basketball teams.

Unfortunately, Keith threw his March Madness party the second week of the tournament, which meant that my UCLA t-shirt was already old news. At least Kelsey got to wear her Marquette gear an extra week.

On another unfortunate note, Pops had a fit of March Madness as well: she broke into the bathroom and shredded the garbage.

Oh Papa, oh Bruins, you break my heart. But such is the nature of March.

Happy 11th Birthday, Papa!

2011-03-22T19:02:00.000-07:00

Doesn't Pops still look like a pup?

I wish I could've spent the whole day with her like I did on her 10th birthday, but I don't think she minded.

She celebrated at my parents' house, sniffing out her treats on the kitchen counter but waiting to unwrap them. Good girl, Papa! Now that she's an older lady, her manners are better.

Naughty or nice, I hope she has many more birthdays to celebrate.

Luck of the non-Irish

2011-03-17T21:38:00.001-07:00

Our tennis group has passed the milestone birthday season and there have been fewer parties (read: fewer photo ops and story-worthy goings-on), thus my failure to blog.

In yet more non-news, I spent St. Patrick's Day the way I spend most Thursdays: at Boulder Junction with Carol and Lisa over potato skins and chicken nachos.

But first I worked out at Highlander, where I ran into Jennie, who plays tennis on Thursday nights. I mentioned that I hadn't been playing because of my tennis elbow and that I was going to try acupuncture.

Here's the lucky twist of fate: She gave me a card for a free treatment.

Thanks, Jennie! It was my lucky day. I really did have something to celebrate today — you and the universe are helping me get back on the courts soon.

Papa's new friends

2011-03-06T19:11:00.000-08:00

I've been traveling a lot in the past couple of months, so Papa has gotten to have some new experiences.

Here she is at Rancho Johanso at the end of January. Pops adores both Christa and Ian (and was mostly a respectful houseguest).

It’s funny how the same dog will look different from other people’s perspectives. I think of her as more of a city mouse, but I love how small she looks in the woods.

In another adventure, she recently met Jen's dog, Karli. They got along okay except when Karli wanted to play with the treat ball. Even when the ball is empty, Pops does not like to share.

In the last photo, check out her reflection in the TV. She's everywhere.

I'm looking forward to Pops mingling more as the weather gets nicer. Hope to see you on our walks!

New foods with old friends

2011-03-01T21:08:00.000-08:00

If you've ever shared a meal with me, you know I'm not an adventurous eater. I like my burgers and comfort foods.

But on this trip, I cast off my tendencies to over-research and just let my friends choose the restaurants. I didn't even need to specify "no unusual meats or whole animals."

Which wouldn't have been necessary anyway with Leigh, a Northwestern friend who's a vegetarian. She took me to Pure Food and Wine.

Raw and vegan? I wondered how cheese could be made from cashews or how a croquette could be a croquette at lower than 118 degrees.

But I embraced the adventure.

And it turned out just fine: chips and guacamole, sushi rolls made with marinated shiitake mushrooms and jicama rice, and falafel tossed with greens. I never did find out how they made the chili-lime chips, which were flaky — as if they had been baked. Next time, I'll save room for a lemon bar or almond coconut joy.

Leigh makes time for me every time I visit, and it's great to see how far we've come since our days waiting tables at The Keg, Evanston's skeeziest bar.

For dinner, it was back to the world of cooked meats. I met up with Bob, another Northwestern friend, at Pierre Loti. Almost everything on the Mediterranean menu looked amazing, but we managed to narrow it down to the scallops and the chicken brochette. I loved the scallops. No idea how they made the green pea veloute, but it was awesome and reminded me of warmer weather.

After dinner we had a drink at Playwright. Thus I can say I've been to all three Irish pubs on the block where I stayed. A new record set.

Even though I was super tired this morning, I rallied to meet Katie, a sorority sister whose 21st birthday is still seared in my memory. We had croissants and coffee — all good — at Eataly.

Katie and I lost touch for a while and just reconnected last year, but she is the kind of person that makes you grateful that Facebook exists.

We did talk about the pleasures and perils of reconnecting with old friends. She recommended that I turn my old t-shirts from Raleigh's and the Bay to Breakers into a blanket. I'm reluctant to let go of my memories, so maybe the quilt isn't a bad idea.

Anyway, I love hanging out with my Golden Bear and Wildcat friends (and the Bruins, too, but that's another trip). Now I have new traditions in New York.

New York minutes

2011-02-28T06:48:00.001-08:00

It's day 3 in New York, but I've already done a bunch of stuff: shopping at H&M, checking out new jewelry and buying gemstones at the JANY Show, and a surprise walking tour of the city.

Saturday, I had grand plans for dinner but got really hungry and decided to just wander down the street to an Irish pub. I say "an" Irish pub because there are three on the block.

I had just sat down at the bar when a group of guys arrived. I scooted down a few seats so they could all sit together.

On the other side was Joe, a Boston native whose first words were "Vinegar" — an observation on my stinky fish and chips.

We sat and talked, and the group of guys next to me bought us drinks. People in New York are so nice!

When we were talking about motivation, Joe asked, "Are you E or are you Turtle?" (I am a huge Entourage fan.)

"Why can't I be Vince?" I said.

"We can't all be Vince."

Which is okay, I suppose, since he can't drive or make decisions on his own.

On Sunday Joe and I met up for dinner at Brendan's, another Irish pub in the one-block radius. After burgers, beers, and a brownie sundae in the toasty warm bar, we went for a walk. I learned about Herald Square, the Chrysler building, and the J.P. Morgan library. We also passed Slattery's — I was tempted to stop in to set a record for the most Irish pubs in one trip, but then thought better of it.

New York is always a fantastic time, but the free drinks and the walking tour will be some of my fondest memories. So, to Joe and the guys who bought us drinks, thanks for sharing this great city with me. Cheers!

Ping pong party

2011-02-20T14:02:00.000-08:00

With the promise of ping pong, pool, and pizza, Jim invited us for an after-work get-together.

The evening did not disappoint.

Jim, Keith, Andy, Drew, Craig, and Scott (“Laser”) played a lot of ping pong, mostly doubles. As did I.

Craig did not even get mad when I hit him in the sternum. When we were partners, he also did not get mad when I poached shots that were his. (Hey, it's a small table. Honest mistake, right?)

Drew also acted as line judge, and Lulu, who’s 5, was the ball girl. She was terrific at this and also at mingling, holding forth on such topics as pizza and Justin Bieber.

After a few hours, I was exhausted. No one ever plays just one or two games of ping pong. That's a lot of alertness.

Next up: converting the table to play pool. That was my cue to leave (bad pun intended).

Thanks for the hospitality, Jim!

Just another Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T20:48:00.000-08:00

The heated BNL argument. Annie and Britta’s moment at the dance. Jeff carrying Chang into the apartment.

The Valentine’s Day episode of Community made me want to be an adult college student with misfit friends.

But I already have a great group of non-misfit friends.

My work day started with cookies, cupcakes, and chocolates that Cathy and Kelsey brought. Sweets make deadlines easier to bear. I think the biggest challenge of the day was whether "BeadStylers" should be a word, and if so, is part or all of it italicized?

At our end-of-day chat, Kelsey and I talked about our quiet friends and our attention-hog friends — not that we have many of either, thank you very much.

Off to the gym, where I ran into Carol, Dianne, Mary, and Tara. It was nice to know there were other people struggling to do bicep curls while doing a squat on one leg. (And that was only halfway through the class.)

In the locker room, I talked to Amy about her new job. And Linda, too, who is so considerate that she asked if I was done with the hair dryer — “The Big Mamou” — before she used it.

Then Patrice and I talked tennis for a bit, or maybe longer than a bit.

Finally I was off to Boulder Junction with Carol, Lisa, and Jeff for an anti-Valentine’s Day dinner. Over potato skins, chips and salsa, enchiladas, and chicken nachos, we talked about how hard it is to lose weight.

It was nice to realize how much of my day, just my average Monday, was filled with friends.

I hope your typical day includes treats at work and dinner with friends. And if you are extra lucky, maybe you also know someone who gives you dibs on the good hair dryer.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Oh no, Papa. How'd you do that?

2011-02-12T09:04:00.001-08:00

I found the cover of Papa’s treat jar under the couch. How did she get it off the jar and into the living room without dropping it?

One for the puppycam, if only I had one.

The Super Bowl: Football trifecta

2011-02-06T21:17:00.001-08:00

We tried to maintain our traditions through Chris' Packer parties. It worked!

I brought spinach dip and lemon cupcakes to the first party, and spinach dip and lemon cookies to tonight’s.

I wore the same outfit for the first two games (even though I had to watch the Bears game at O’ Hare).

But on Friday, Kelsey and I ran errands (or “Aarons,” as she called them) and I found an “I Heart Packers” shirt at Goodwill. She let me borrow the adorable green-and-gold necklace she made, which also looks cute looped around as a bracelet.

We were all a little amped up for the game.

Rituals are supposed to be calming, but after the third quarter, I was so nervous that I had tea and chocolate cake in the kitchen while I washed some dishes. Alone.

Nailbiting aside, everything in the universe came together.

It was cheering and hugs all around as we shared the thrill of victory. We love our big champs in our small town!

Snow day, part doh!

2011-02-02T13:58:00.001-08:00

I didn't go into work today. But it wasn't a fun, relaxing snow day.

I'm feeling the impact — specifically, in my left knee and lower back — of our historic snowfall. I’ve been slowly chipping my way out.

Shoveling during a blizzard is exhilarating. Shoveling after the snow has settled is not so much fun. Because the challenge is not only to scoop it up but to find a place to toss it. This requires feats of strength, and I’ve been lax about attending body sculpt. Fitness from lunges and squats would’ve really come in handy now.

Thankfully I have the best neighbors ever. Four fearless snowblowers have helped me with the sidewalk, front walkway, and garage. And also with carving out a path for the garbage cans.

So I spent my snow day shoveling and baking cookies for my neighbors. I hope you have nice neighbors, too!

End of vacation

2011-01-30T11:41:00.000-08:00

I did lots of eating and shopping the last couple of days in Newport Beach.

Thursday night we went to The Crab Cooker and ate crab legs, soft shell crab, and crab cakes. Mom got shrimp and scallops.

Friday was a day of shopping at Nordstrom Rack and Marukai, then dinner at Il Fornaio. It's funny how I've developed a routine, even on vacation. This was only my second trip to Newport Beach, but last year we also went to Marukai and Il Fornaio and The Crab Cooker.

I did try two new places on this trip: the Newport Beach Brewing Company and Bandera, where I had a salad with rotisserie chicken, corn, goat cheese, and chopped dates. Yum!

Thankfully both of my flights on Saturday were without incident. As difficult as it was to say goodbye to Yukie and the warm weather and having wash-and-go hair, I am glad to be back to my regular life.

Flashbacks at the Newport Beach Brewing Company

2011-01-27T14:35:00.000-08:00

Since we’re not grad students anymore, Julie and I thought we’d try one of Newport Beach’s nicer places.

Back Bay Bistro's build a burger menu (with vegetarian options) looked good. But they’re closed on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, even during Restaurant Week.

So I suggested Sage, but their creative American cuisine included only one vegetarian option.

Off we went to the Newport Beach Brewing Company.

Did we order the garlic beer fries? No, we got distracted by the $8 pitcher/$8 pizza deal and added some nachos for good measure. (You can take the girl out of grad school, but you can’t take grad school out of the girl.)

We spent a lot of time talking about 1997: our grad school cohort and how many people left after the first quarter; the old Father’s Office — when there was only one location, in Santa Monica; the Library Alehouse and the Red Sweater Guy.

We wished our cohort-mate Jason was there. He would not have left beer in the pitcher and ended the night with water or soda, as we did.

It was wonderful to talk about how life has changed, and how it hasn’t. Maybe someday we'll graduate from bar to bistro. But until then, cheers with a pint of Bisbee's ESB!

TP and TV: Papa's visit to Camp Christa

2011-01-26T09:46:00.000-08:00

Spending my days in sunny southern California, it also warms my heart that Papa is enjoying her visit to Camp Christa. Christa took care of Pops last year, too.

She said Papaya was an angel. Can you believe we're talking about the same dog?

This year, Christa has been an especially good sport. She took Pops for walks in the coldest weather we’ve seen all winter. Papa emailed me after her first day:

Auntie Christa let me sleep on her bed. Don't worry Mom I was not rude. I stayed really still at the foot of the bed and we both slept all night long. Then this morning Auntie Christa put on like a million layers of clothes and we went for a walk. I met a new friend named Smudge and some old guy named Jim. Then Auntie Christa made me breakfast just the way I like it — three tennis balls right in the middle of things!!

I have my own spot on the sofa with a blanket and Auntie Christa opened the blinds so I can see outside.

Sounds good, right?

I later got a message that Pops was grounded from sending email. Despite a walk and a game of snow-drift Frisbee, she had decided to shred a roll of toilet paper while Christa and Ian went out to dinner.

She’s still allowed to watch TV, though — educational stuff like the State of the Union address.

Clearly Pops feels really comfortable at camp.

Blizzards and blitzes

2011-01-24T17:01:00.000-08:00

The brief version: Instead of MKE/DEN/SNA, I got rebooked on a flight to Chicago with a connection to Orange County.

The longer version: “Heavy snow” (the airport’s terminology) delayed that flight, too. As did the de-icing process and having only one runway for all the takeoffs and arrivals.

Things didn't improve when I arrived at O' Hare, where the L and H terminals are not very close. I had a shin-splint-inducing walk/run in heels while carrying my purse, coat, tennis racquet, and carryon bag stuffed with my laptop, clipboard, magazines, and hardcover books.

I need not have hurried. My flight left 10 minutes before I got to the gate.

Good thing O' Hare has those convenient rebooking phones. I could depart four hours later, if all went on schedule. At least I didn't have to re-check my bag at a different airline and go through the security check again (as I did in MKE).

Another bright spot: I watched the first half of the Packer game at an airport bar while eating a better-than-mediocre chicken pita and fries, among the blue and orange people and a couple of very vocal and drunk Green Bay fans. Not as much fun as last week’s festivities, but still.

I watched the second half of the game in a nearby waiting area. Toward the end of the fourth quarter, I heard a woman at the bar yell, "Oh, no!" a split second before I knew the Packers won.

By then, I was the only person clapping. But I clapped anyway. Onward!

Oh no Papa, not this garbage can too!

2011-01-22T08:15:00.000-08:00

It's a new year, but old habits die hard.

To my horror, I've realized that the garbage saga has gone on for over two years — almost as long as Papa has lived with me.

Once upon a time, I had a garbage can with a hinged lid. I took the trash out regularly — took it for granted, actually, the way most people do. But Pops figured out how to knock over the can and spread garbage around the kitchen and living room.

So I bought a new garbage can. With a hinged lid that would open when I stepped on the pedal — a nice feature that meant I didn't have to touch the lid.

Alas, Papa could remove garbage without knocking the entire can over — an accomplishment of physics, really.

I did wonder how she did it without getting her snout caught in the lid. And how long did it take to pull each of those branches out?

One more try. I thought this was it: the garbage can that would thwart Pops. It has handles that lock the bag into place.

But Papa can detach the lid and pull on the sides of the bag, flipping it inside out.

I doubt it was the smell of the Top Ramen and candy bar wrappers — both of which were empty, by the way — that drew Papa. She has always loved to shred stuff, even in her previous life.

I think I'll go back to one of the old cans. (Plus, it's hard to find eight-gallon bags.)

The bigger question is, of course: Do I try to change the garbage can or the dog? It's always easier to change a product than a personality.

Green and gold get-together

2011-01-16T12:48:00.000-08:00

Forest green isn’t my color. On Friday we wished that purple and berry were team colors, because then it’d be easy to dress for the occasion.

Still, yesterday’s Packer game was riveting.

Chris mixed up cosmos — the only Falcons-colored thing I consumed. I brought spinach dip and Katy’s lemon cupcakes (green and gold!) and parked in front of the kitchen TV with Mary, Carol, and Patty. Doug (who's a Vikings fan) and Hans (a Bears fan wearing a red pullover) didn't have anything invested in the game and wandered in occasionally. When we heard cheering from the living room, we knew when to watch the game on our TV.

In the fourth quarter, I asked, “Who’s the second quarterback?” (The answer I was looking for: Matt Flynn.)

Patty, with a straight face, said, “It’s the backup quarterback.”

Ah, who will provide such commentary when I'm on vacation during next Sunday’s game?

I’ll be thinking of everyone as they gather again at Chris’ house. We asked him not to move the living room chairs. Maybe everyone will bring the same food and wear the same clothes. Cheers to our green and gold!

Winter Kniffels

2011-01-15T07:31:00.000-08:00

It was nice to leave the work week behind, starting with dinner at Katy and Paul’s.

Katy put together a fun tail-gating menu — sloppy joe’s and pasta salad — which helped get me mentally prepared for tonight’s Packer game. (Okay, so maybe I don’t need that much preparation.)

Christian, who’s 3½, has graduated from a sippy cup to a big-boy glass. And 6-year-old Miranda is almost the age Katy was when we met. Life is always changing!

Christian got the giggles when he and Miranda showed off their matching PJs. (If you think about it, matching PJs really are hilarious.)

After dinner, Katy and Miranda and I played Qwirkle, a dominoes-like game that was really fun. It also reminded me of Scrabble (you build with colors and shapes rather than letters).

We also played a few games of Kniffel, the German version of Yahtzee. And Katy sent me home with lemon cupcakes, which I will bring to the almost-impromptu playoff party I’m headed to tonight.

Comfort food, board games, hot buttered rum: all good ways to spend a snowy Friday night. Thanks, Katy!

Oh no Papa, not the green tea!

2011-01-09T17:22:00.000-08:00

My mom left a package of green tea on my kitchen table. Papa ripped it open in the living room.

She has been more of a terror than usual, repeating the New Year’s Eve garbage incident daily.

So I bought a new garbage can that has levers that lock in the bag. I'm calling her bluff; we'll see if it works.

Welcoming the New Year

2011-01-01T12:51:00.001-08:00

I spent New Year's Eve at a party at Doug and Beth's. There was much booze, food, and mingling among their neighbors and tennis friends.

Chris mixed up margaritas and we played some ping pong. I then got schooled by Shappy and 9-year-old Colin, who said, "I'm better than you think I look."

It was a great time — just like two years ago — and we all counted down the New Year with Ryan Seacrest. After that, more ping pong with Doug — who won despite his scotch consumption.

My partying for 2010 complete, I came home to garbage all over the kitchen floor. It looks like someone was anxious and lonely on New Year's Eve but found solace in sugar and some pico de gallo from Qdoba.

Old habits die hard.

But Papa managed to not destroy anything while I was out this morning playing tennis.

Doug organized three courts (not too early), and the first annual Feldman Classic was a hit. I know I was happy to work off the margaritas and buffalo dip (which I discovered around 12:30 in the morning).

I'm not sure about resolutions, but I hope my year is like New Year's Eve was — a combination of friends, ping pong, tennis, and looking forward to some adventures ahead.

Happy 2011!

Oh no Papa, they're just boots.

2010-12-27T21:52:00.000-08:00

Papa loves to open gifts.

Whether it's a bone or a frisbee or a gift that's not for her (sorry, Katy), she shreds the wrapping paper with abandon.

She is not always so excited about the actual gifts. Such as these boots. (Note her subdued mood.)

She allowed us to put them on, then refused to move — as if she were paralyzed.

Unfortunately, she can't be swayed by favorable Amazon ratings or reassurances that these durable boots will protect her paws from salt on the sidewalks.

Onward.

Oh no Papa, not the garbage bag!

2010-12-23T18:57:00.000-08:00

Doing my holiday baking, it's not unusual for me to have a cookie mishap.

Yesterday's disaster: crumbly shortbread.

My magical thinking — that baking would improve the messed-up dough — didn't work. I should have given up when the butter refused to combine with the flour.

So I threw the cookies away. I also took out the garbage right away.

By the way, I've been spending a lot of time with Papa lately. She gets lots of car rides while I'm doing last-minute holiday stuff. So I thought it would be safe to leave her unattended for an hour.

Unfortunately, she got into the new garbage.

She extracted the bag out without pulling out the garbage can. I came home to shredded plastic and a guilty look. Thankfully, the holiday season will be over soon.

Wisdom, gone

2010-12-17T13:23:00.000-08:00

Drinking soda through a straw. Eating crunchy tacos. Running on a treadmill.

Simple things, but I did them mindfully this week, in anticipation of getting my wisdom teeth removed.

My friends tried to reassure me with their own recollections. Charlie had four teeth removed at 3 p.m. and was at a party by 9. Carol's niece had hers done a couple of weeks ago, without incident. And, rationally, I doubted I’d have an experience like Chris' — a replacement dentist after four hours of unsuccessful tugging and breaking, followed up by weeks of soreness.

Still, I was tense. Couldn't fall asleep until 3 a.m.

Before I left work yesterday, Kelsey said, “Remember that we love you.” She knew I was morbidly afraid of not waking up from the anesthesia. (Yes, I know there is practically zero risk of that.)

So I spent Thursday night at Boulder Junction eating a last supper of chicken tenders and fried mushrooms, zucchini and celery, and chocolate chip cookies.

And today I went to the oral surgeon. He administered the IV, and I have no memory of even going under. Boom. Done.

I wouldn’t say it was anticlimactic — because it still hurts and pain is pain, after all. I did realize that the anticipation of pain is far worse than the experience of it.

But for once, I’m happy that I seem to be having the average experience. I look forward to returning to the world of crunchy food soon.

P.S. I did learn one other thing: spumoni is not a good post-surgery option. I can't chew the nuts or cherries.

Day off

2010-12-10T15:19:00.000-08:00

I haven't been blogging because I've had a really bad cold. (You know it's bad when co-workers sanitize tools after you use them.) After my nightly cocktail of codeine cough syrup and Mucinex failed to help, I figured it was time to consult a doctor.

So I took the day off while waiting for the antibiotics to kick in.

In the meantime, I did something healthy: got a winter tune-up on the car. Oil change, brakes and tires checked. That always makes me feel safer.

Also, I bought extra dog food to store in the trunk. (It adds weight to the back of the car, preventing the car from skidding. Usually.)

Relatedly, Papa just got her stitches removed — and the lumps were not cancerous — so that's some more good health news.

I'm hoping some potato skins will be just what I need, and that Papa will not terrorize the house while I'm gone. We could all use some gentle treatment.

The Office Grind

2010-12-01T05:54:00.000-08:00

If you're interested in a he-said-she-said take on workplace dating, check out The Office Grind. The column originally appeared in print in the fall issue of Audrey.

Here's what the editor says:

"Is workplace “commingling” a good idea? Guest columnist Naomi Fujimoto says all’s fair in love and work, but Paul Nakayama wouldn’t touch that with a 10-foot laser pointer."

You decide.

Flavor of the month

2010-11-28T21:37:00.000-08:00

Ever since I was a kid, I've gone through phases where I wanted to keep eating the same thing — ramen noodles or Chef Boyardee canned ravioli or, for the past two years, the chicken salad at Qdoba.

This month, that thing is Key lime desserts.

I've eaten a tart at Harry's, a cupcake from Georgetown Cupcake, and a mini-serving of pie at Bosley.

It would be hard to pick a favorite. The tangy tart? The light cupcake? The creamy pie? It's like comparing apples and oranges (groan).

So instead I'll just say that I'm lucky to have such wonderful friends. Sharing dessert and drinks is one of life's little pleasures. Or big pleasures, when you get to do it often.

PS: Michele, the owner of Bosley, offered to let me snap a photo in the kitchen, where the light was better. Alas, Katy and I decided to dig in instead.

Oh no Papa, not the holiday garbage!

2010-11-26T21:28:00.000-08:00

I just came home to a stick from a Tootsie Pop, on the floor of the living room.

Oh, no.

Isn’t it crazy how much garbage Papa extracted without fully knocking over the can?

To be fair, she had a tough day. I took her to the vet to have two lumps removed. He’s checking to make sure the one lump isn’t cancerous (he doesn’t think so but wants to confirm because it was near her breast).

So I think Pops was not herself after spending half the day being drugged, poked, and prodded.

Or maybe she was exactly herself. She gets nutty with garbage during the holidays.

I know my routine changes this time of year, but Papa, please don’t pitch any more fits. There should be a limit to how many times I have to use the vacuum cleaner in one day.

Tennis surprises

2010-11-21T22:12:00.000-08:00

What keeps me playing tennis — aside from the competition and camaraderie — is the element of surprise. You just never know what is going to happen.

By “surprise,” I don’t mean hitting a quirky little drop shot when your opponent expected a ground stroke.

I am referring to aberrant things. Things that don't make sense.

Patrice and I have played together for two years — more than 20 matches. Which is why it was surprising that we sucked in the first four games of our match in Le Club’s Great Turkey Open.

This is not hyperbole. Or humilty. We really sucked. (After the match Nan, one of our opponents, asked, “What was up with those first four games?”)

We had trouble hitting the ball. After a shaky warmup, I attributed this to my jitters. It felt like a big deal to play against Nan and Jody, someone whom I’ve known for years but never played.

Obviously if we could have just stopped doing whatever we were doing, we wouldn’t have gotten into a 4-0 deficit.

But somehow, shot by shot, we started to figure it out. At least we started to have rallies rather than ending points with our mistakes.

Surprise! We came back to win the set. And the match.

On Saturday we played a team I remember as The Ham Sandwich Girls. Last year, they won a three-setter, ate ham sandwiches, and came out and beat us in three sets. They then played a third match.

It is intimidating to play people for whom fatigue is not an issue.

But I really wanted to win. And don’t ever doubt it, so did Patrice.

I can’t really remember the match, other than that it was grueling and I got aced a couple of times. But we did it: 7-5, 7-5.

Then, surprise! It was not the championship match. (“It felt like it,” I said.)

We played once more and won in straight sets. And I enjoyed two turkey sandwiches afterward.

I should mention, I was nervous before our second match, too. But Jody said that things were different this year. So thank you, Jody, for the encouraging words. They really helped.

More cupcakes!

2010-11-20T11:57:00.001-08:00

I came home from last Friday's festivities to find two pink and black boxes from Georgetown Cupcake. Michelle had ordered four dozen cupcakes — one in each flavor, plus some.

Yukie and I tried the vanilla with chocolate ganache and the chocolate mint. (The image is from Georgetown Cupcake's website.)

I later sampled the lemon, mint cookies and creme, milk chocolate birthday, and PB fudge. (If you check out the menu, you'll see photos of almost all of their cupcakes.)

All the ones I tried were delicious — the perfect ratio of cake to frosting. If I had to pick a favorite, the chocolate mint would top the list. That creamy mint frosting was amazing.

If you count the baking before my birthday, I ate cupcakes for six days straight. I think that's a respectable effort.

Thank you, Michelle, for the gift. It's like the party is still going on.

Candy rings and creativity

2010-11-19T12:29:00.001-08:00

My friend Sarah always gives beautiful gifts like jeweled Swarovski pencils and personalized address stamps — and this week I was blown away by this solid chocolate ring from Promise Me Chocolate.

The "amethyst" is hand-painted milk chocolate with a champagne-y shimmer. Given my challenges making silicone molds, I'm especially impressed with how beautiful these rings are. The company also makes chocolate pendants strung on licorice (!) and truffles with flavored ganache fillings.

In addition to having a great eye for gifts, Sarah is incredibly creative. Check out her recent post at the PaperDolls of Saratoga blog for ways to make your own Thanksgiving placecards.

(And yes, Sarah made that bookmark — though I wish I could take credit.)

Cocktails, cupcakes, and Funky Cold Medina

2010-11-14T19:27:00.000-08:00

My 40th birthday was awesome! Blue's Egg was a great venue to relive the 80s.

Or at least the music of the 80s: arena rock, power ballads, British pop, and so many one- and two-hit wonders.

Even though my taste in 80s music horrifies Jeremy, he put together a respectable song list. Sandra tried to rally people to dance — and was successful at one point. Must've been the Funky Cold Medinas, which were delicious with lemonade.

A few people embraced the 80s theme admirably: Jay accessorized with a flamingo tie, Linda layered an Izod vest over a blouse with tennis racquets, Bonch went Karate Kid, Amy got leg warmers from Goodwill, and Al wore Chuck Taylors (and told us about the lime green and pink pairs he used to trade with his high school friend).

I was a bit jealous of Denise's plastic charm necklace, which she actually got in the 80s. Out of respect, she removed the toilet charm, but I'd have liked to see it!

Without question the most daring getup of the night was Jordan in his black mesh half-shirt. Rad! We all admired how he truly went for it.

Big thanks to everyone who helped me organize the party. Serene designed the invitations, Linda helped me shop for my outfit, Yukie baked the cupcakes, Patty and Dave did balloon duty, Jeremy and Keith took care of the music, Alicia arrived early to help set up, and Erin and Kelsey handled the music trivia. I appreciate all the help!

Per our tennis group's tradition, Dianne handed off the gnome — which was a way better memento than the bruise she gave me at tennis Wednesday night. (Just kidding, I know it was an accident. Right?)

I signed the gnome's oddly muscular bicep and propped him up next to my TV, where he can amuse visitors with his halfhearted smile.

Thanks everyone, for your friendship and your festive spirit. I'm so lucky to have such great family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and teammates. You truly know how to party like it's 1989!

Oh no Papa, not the toilet paper!

2010-11-07T20:53:00.000-08:00

For the “How did she do that?” file:

Saturday night, Papa opened the hallway door — as in, turned the knob and pulled the door toward her — and went upstairs.

I found a pile of shredded toilet paper in the bathroom.

Could’ve been worse: she did leave most of the paper on the roll. Thanks, Papa.

Weekend of Dianne

2010-11-03T20:36:00.001-07:00

Dianne just celebrated a milestone: her 50th birthday. As you can see, the surprise party that Don planned had the desired effect.

Last Friday night, we all arrived at Laura and Kevin's house, parked discreetly, and hung out in the basement until Dianne and Don arrived. Dianne said he just can't lie — but he did a tremendous job of having his friends lie for him.

And though she thought it was odd that no one had asked what her birthday plans were, she was grateful for the cards sent by her 80-year-old aunt and the waiter from Lake Park Bistro.

Two things about Dianne: she will talk to just about anyone and she is super athletic. I actually met her at Highlander years ago, before I knew that she played tennis or that we'd be on the same team. Somehow, without knowing each other, we randomly started talking about how the Bucks were doing.

And on occasion, driving home from work, I'd see her running in Tosa. We were practically neighbors.

But back to the party. It was great — sandwiches on freshly baked buns, plenty of beer and wine, and cake. Like every good house party, we migrated to the kitchen to hang out. When we left, Dianne had two glasses in her hands.

She rallied for a birthday dinner on Saturday — a mellow outing at Cafe Hollander — and then brunch at the Knick. I could also have joined her at body pump on Sunday morning, but my commitment to fitness was better suited to attacking a football-sized chicken and Havarti omelet.

I really enjoyed Weekend of Dianne. Thank you for including me. And cheers to Don for his strategery!

Oh no, Papa, it's just a Halloween hat!

2010-10-31T16:40:00.001-07:00

Years ago, I bought this little hat for Ginger to wear at Halloween. She didn't stand for it — maybe because my parents and I laughed uncontrollably when we put it on her.

So I took a different approach with Papa. I just put the hat on, without fanfare or laughter.

Even though she cringed, she also posed for this yearbook-style photo. Her reward: lots of Frisbee in the yard.

I didn't even mind that she shook the hat so it looked more like a piece of jaunty neckwear. Tres chic, Pa-pa!

I'm writing this at my parents' house. Papa barks when the doorbell rings and barks when I open the door to trick-or-treaters, trying to force her way out. Still, one of them said, "Bye, Papaya!"

Happy Halloween!

Blue's clues

2010-10-27T20:14:00.000-07:00

I had tried a Funky Cold Medina — the drink, not the song — at Boulder Junction a few weeks ago. Actually, John (of Thursday night tennis) struggled through a pint of it. He thought it would have been more tolerable as a shot.

So Carol and I went to The Klavier last weekend on a mission: to see if Mary, who bartends there, could improve the drink. The original has equal parts of Absolut vodka, Southern Comfort peach liqueur, and Blue Curacao. Topped with cranberry juice, it's purple and reminiscent of cough syrup.

Mary mixed a bunch of different options — shaking, tasting, throwing away. After a few tries, success: the final Mary Cold Medina was light and fun.

Perhaps this seems merely charming but not story-worthy?

There was a second Blue sighting: A Blue Hawaii played a cameo in this week’s episode of Hawaii Five-O. Quelle surprise! Its neon presence could not be ignored.

But wait, there's more.

I was considering palettes for a crystal bracelet I’m working on, and one of Pantone’s colors for spring is Blue Curacao. It’s part of the “Exotic Journey” palette (on page 2 of the color forecast).

Blue Curacao for spring?

What does it all mean?

Getting in shape, one decision at a time

2010-10-25T20:40:00.000-07:00

Today I did a body sculpt class at Highlander.

Back in the 90's I used to love step aerobics, but now I'm more of an elliptical-machine user. I hadn’t taken an exercise class in years.

Until tonight.

I was on the elliptical — on my usual machine, where I like to wave to friends and chat so I don’t get too bored — when I saw Mary. She was heading to the class, and said it worked everything and didn’t require tons of coordination. Sounds perfect, right?

So I set myself up in the back of the gym.

Lunges, squats, more lunges and squats. Some with weights, some not — Gretchen kept us busy. When she smiled and said, “Nice job. Looking good!” I pretended she was talking to me.

I tried to balance with my two-pound weights while Mary — who used to play college basketball and throw bales of hay on her family’s farm — had no such problems.

I could not double-time the footwork on the step (though, yes, it would probably help me with my tennis footwork). And I opted for the girly pushups at the end of class.

The good news is, the class was really fun: just enough reps to feel the burn but not so many that it got boring. At least I did not spend the hour marching in place.

I also made a resolution: Until my birthday, I'm avoiding Boulder Junction. Though I once went there and had two potato skins and a La Croix, that is not my typical post-tennis fare. I am a pushover for the buckaroo platter (fried jalapeno poppers, fried mozzarella, fried zucchini, fried calamari). And why not have a second Newcastle?

Two small steps.

Dog naps

2010-10-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

My preschool art teacher just blogged about naps.

Her post reminded me of the first time I dogsat Papa (or Maiah, as she was back then): July 26, 2008.

That day, I took long walks and played Frisbee with her. But when I tried to take a mid-afternoon nap, she sat by my bed. Panting. As if she was waiting for me to let her know what was next.

It was not restful. But I know how hard it is to fall asleep in a strange place, so I tried to relax. She did, too. (Kristin had warned me that Maiah was neurotic.)

Now, Maiah Papaya is an excellent sleeper. She sleeps on the couch and on the bed, curled up or in her side-of-beef pose. When I have friends over and we sit on the couch, she rests her feet on me and her head against the other person.

Hijinks and forty winks, she has mastered them both. And really, sleeping and causing chaos are both about living in the moment, not worrying about what's next.

Papa, you've come a long way.

How to make a birthday bracelet

2010-10-14T08:46:00.000-07:00

If you want to learn how to make a birthday bracelet (like the one I made for Jean's 60th), visit the BeadStyle Bead Room.

While racking my brain over what combination of beads to use, I figured something out: It's all about the chain.

So decide on the chain before choosing the beads, because the math matters!

Oh no, Linus, not my purse.

2010-10-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

I was at Michelle’s house a few weeks ago when Linus decided to explore my purse.

Looks like he got bored.

Yoshi also liked bags. (Do all cats?)

Speaking of bags: I'm glad to hear that SunChips is discontinuing their compostable bags. Those bags were just plain loud. And no one likes an indiscreet snack bag.

Two milestones: Ron and Jean's 60th

2010-10-05T19:17:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Ron and Jean’s 60th birthdays at O’Donoghue’s on Saturday.

O’Donoghue’s is becoming one of my favorite places to hang out, even when I’m not eating fish fry. (Though, I was there for fish fry last Friday.)

During the party, I ran into Kelsey, Erin, Caitlin (Erin’s sister), and Colleen during one of their regular Odie’s outings. We talked 80s movies; their memories of Can’t Buy Me Love are surprisingly vivid. (Kelsey’s take: “And then, surprise! He gets arrogant.”)

Now back to the 60s: Ron showed off his “I have no idea what’s going on” t-shirt and Jean's message was “Damn, I make 60 look good.”

The karaoke festivities started with Ron’s version of “Bye Bye Love.” Then a group of tennis ladies (sans moi) sang “Dancing Queen,” “Bad Romance,” and another Lady Gaga tune that I can’t remember.

Beer flowed freely.

And there was jazz, caricatures, and magic, too — including the retrieval of a $20 bill from a lemon. And Shappy made an appearance, relinquishing the gnome after only one week. But such is the nature of the gnome — sometimes he takes long weekends, sometimes he gets comfortable in one place. (He stayed with Carol for a couple of years.)

After a night of buffalo tenders and cheese sticks washed down with Harp, it was time for cake in the shape of a tennis court. Chocolate with raspberry filling. Fried food and dessert — a winning combination from our friends.

Cheers to Ron and Jean — 120 is treating you well!

Marilee's bridal shower

2010-10-03T13:15:00.000-07:00

Under the guise of “book club,” we surprised Marilee with a bridal shower. (And there was also a short discussion of books.)

Dianne asked us to bring something fun as part of a “recipe for a happy marriage.” Our group — women who are single, newlyweds, in long-term relationships, or married for 20-plus years — had fun with this.

When it came time to open gifts, Sandy’s was first: a fire extinguisher (“for when things get hot”).

Um, could anything else compare?

Fortunately Marilee loved the cozy socks, fuzzy slippers, books and rules of romance, honey, spices, and other stuff we brought. Carol gave her seven bananas with the wish for “a bunch” of love and good times for every day of the week. Nice!

Colleen also picked out a special gift from all of us. Reading the card, Marilee paused and said, “I’m a little scared.”

But it was a totally perfect gift. Totally.

Of course we also ate — plenty of food and cake. And whoever made the bar cookies with M&Ms, I loved those. I took one out of my purse later that night.

Congrats to Marilee and Brad, and thanks to Dianne for being a great organizer and hostess!

A jewelry adventure: More metal flowers

2010-10-01T12:02:00.001-07:00

After I finished my ornament project for the November issue of BeadStyle, I had a few metal flowers left — perfect for whipping up a more casual silver version of the September cover necklace.

The experience was more challenging than I expected.

The biggest flower, a 4-inch magnolia, had only only one hole (in the center), so I punched holes in two petals. Then I noticed that, in the gold version, I had connected the biggest flower in three places.

It wouldn't be a big deal to punch another hole in the silver flower — except that once you do it, it's there. No going back. I'm hesitant to connect the coreopsis in two fixed places. At least with the gold version, the rims of the center flower have some give with the jump rings.

After much rearranging (opening and closing of jump rings), I finally settled on this design.

At least the earrings were easy.

To highlight the sleek, organic shape of the plated lily pads, I just attached them to earring wires. Super simple, and I'll probably wear them all the time!

Same with the cut paisley drops. I'm a fan of long, lean shapes. The drops, which are almost 3 inches long, look great without any beads or chain attached. I won't be wearing these with the necklace (too much bling), but I'm always happy to forgo large necklaces in favor of statement-y earrings.

One lesson learned: It's best to order as soon as I spot something I like. The Beadin' Path offers lots of vintage stuff, but I've occasionally made the mistake of overthinking a purchase while the coveted item got snapped up by someone more decisive.

PS: Jim Forbes shot these photos. I love the crisp background! Check out his portfolio — my favorite series is "Three Windows."

Press Pause Moments anthology

2010-09-30T20:57:00.001-07:00

I just got my copy of Press Pause Moments, a collection of essays about life transitions.

The timing couldn’t have been better. Fall is always a season of change, and I’ve been thinking about what things I’d like to change (or not) as my 40th birthday approaches. (More on that another time.)

One of my essays appears in this book, and so does one from Michelle Mach.

Michelle and I live somewhat parallel lives blogging, designing jewelry, and freelance writing. In a “small world” moment, we got a chance to meet at the Bead and Button Show this summer and thought it would be fun to cross-blog about the book.

The first words of her essay:

“Good-bye! Good riddance! Good luck! Good grief!”

Yes, that crazy mashup of feelings when you make a big change is totally relatable. Michelle not only made a big career change, she had the insight to write about it. Reading her story reminded me of academia — that feeling of being both at home and not at home.

So get a copy of the book and check out “Confessions of a Former Good Girl.”

You can also find out more about Michelle on her website or her blog, Beads & Books.

Shappy's 50th birthday

2010-09-26T19:06:00.001-07:00

Today we celebrated Shappy’s 50th birthday. His brother and sister-in-law, Steve and M.J., hosted a wonderful surprise party at their house.

They're both terrific hosts: Steve rolled out pizza dough and told us about the workings of their brick oven, and M.J. gave me a tour and picked mushrooms. (Last week, they harvested 30 pounds!)

I spent a lot of time by the oven — the better to sample each pizza as it came out.

Each one had a supercrisp crust, and I loved all of the different toppings: wild mushrooms, fresh mozzarella, pesto with feta. I wandered away and unfortunately missed the pepperoni with heirloom tomatoes.

Check out this Journal Sentinel article if you want to read more about their talent and hospitality (Steve also makes his own cheese!).

Shappy’s brother Dave and tennis friend Sande sang and played guitar, and we all sang Happy Birthday for our friend who looks like Billy Joel. There was also some brotherly hazing among Shappy, Steve, and Dave.

We’re still trying to figure out if Shappy was surprised.

A charming Asian movie

2010-09-26T07:39:00.000-07:00

Trying to get over a cold, I slept in yesterday and then spent the day baking brownies and recycling old magazines. My day did have a bit of excitement: a visit from Terry, who surprised me by arriving exactly 24 hours early to pick me up for a party. Good thing I had brownies!

Once I got back to my uneventful day, I watched White on Rice. Yukie and I may be the only people I know who like Asian dramedies, but this is a movie worth seeing.

Check out the trailer. Don't you want to find out how hapless Hajime keeps his childlike innocence after heartbreak? Even though his nephew, Bob, is a bit of a stereotype — hardworking and a genius?! — the nice thing is, the kid actually doesn’t have sage-like wisdom. He’s just odd.

Thumbs up.

Oh no, Papa: enough with the shredding!

2010-09-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

Papa has been good lately. Her only offense: shredding two mini boxes of cereal.

This lack of uncrazy behavior has given me pause. I worry that she's slowing down — or plotting a really big prank.

I took Pops to the vet this weekend for some routine tests. She hated being there and nervously peed on the examining table. I think she may remember her last visit, where the vet gave her charcoal to neutralize the effects of the chocolate donuts.

But she's in good health. Even though she broke one of her front teeth off at some point — maybe chewing something plastic? — her teeth are in decent shape, as are her eyes.

So we can all rest assured that she's doing fine. I still have to store food well out of her reach.

Regarding the mouse

2010-09-09T19:06:00.000-07:00

Don’t get me wrong: I don’t want the mouse to have lots of siblings who hang out in my garage. But the sighting did make me wonder.

Addie showed me a book, Animal Speak, about how nature is woven into human life. According to the author, the mouse represents attention to detail.

As in: Am I lost in the trivial, or missing what’s in front of me, or scurrying around trying to do too many things at once?

I realize that blogging about a mouse while wondering if I'm missing the big picture might make the answer seem obvious. But really, maybe the mouse is trying to tell me something.

The mouse

2010-09-06T07:46:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, I had to suddenly turn off my lawn mower to avoid running over a tiny mouse near the garage.

We made eye contact. (I think.) Perched like a butterball, he was decidedly not vermin-like.

I ran inside to get my camera and found him curled up on the lawn in the same spot. He was shy about photos, though, and finally disappeared into a hole near the fence.

Yesterday I was telling my neighbor Jody about the sighting when we saw something in the corner of her yard: Her cat had flipped a mouse (the mouse?) onto its back. Jody distracted her cat while the mouse wandered into the bushes.

A few minutes later, I opened the back gate to walk Papa. And there was a mouse (the mouse?). He was just standing in the middle of the walkway. Not trying to run or hide.

Jody came over, and we talked about whether he was the mouse. We agreed he was cute, and she ushered him out of the walkway, into a mass of overgrown chives.

I know that there is rarely one mouse, but I like to think I didn’t spot three in two days.

What would you have done? And no, I won't be like Luke and Linda's friend who made special cracker pizzas for his mouse.

Home is where the Highlander is

2010-08-30T19:50:00.000-07:00

Our team’s summer season ended in early August, and we went to Maxie’s to celebrate over fish fry and cocktails.

I really had a great time playing this year. The Highlander team is an awesome group — we spend tons of social time together, too. (In fact, I was just at Jean’s house for a BBQ, eating my 1.5 brats.)

And the club itself feels like home.

Of course I love the controlled settings — the air conditioning and the ice machine and knowing where the glare is (now that Beth has pointed it out). I’ve even gotten used to the squeaky fan on court 8 and the broken lock in the downstairs bathroom.

But yesterday, driving to Western, I thought about how lucky I was to be able to play tennis outside on a beautiful summer day. Sure, it was tough to play in 90-degree weather. And trains rumbled by a couple of times. But Carol came to cheer us on and we had fun playing.

I took a break before our second match by going to Highlander to consume my banana and chocolate milk in silence. Or, in near silence: Doug said it was “nuts” (yes, nuts) that I wanted to freshen up and collect my thoughts.

But the second match was fun, too (here we are with Gina and Mary afterward), and my miniature cooler helped me get through the heat. Per our tradition, Patrice and I had a post-match debrief — this time at O’ Donoghue’s.

August marks the end of summer league and the last outdoor tournament of the year. It’s a month of endings, but I also feel like some good changes are in the air. Au revoir, August!

I hope the change of season brings good things for you, too.

A hundred thousand welcomes

2010-08-24T21:51:00.000-07:00

Another Irish Fest done, another summer gone. This year’s Fest was a blur, even though I was there twice.

On Thursday, Addie and I worked at the souvenir tent. I had a blast selling t-shirts. For real — maybe because I like being asked my opinion. I also love seeing the volunteer crew every year.

Later we ate insanely large baked potatoes from The Irish Baker. Mine had sour cream, chives, and bacon. I added cheddar (why should I be limited to what's on the menu?) to make a syrupy mess. Yum!

On Sunday, Denise and I worked at beer tent #5. It was pretty mellow, which gave us time to watch the parade and eat shepherd's pie and reuben rolls. To keep with the green theme, I also ate mint chocolate chip cheesecake at the Tipperary Tea Room.

The people at Irish Fest are always friendly and happy; sunshine and beer will do that to a person. I did have one odd encounter with two women who seemed puzzled that I was volunteering. But it was nothing I couldn’t handle: my years at Nevin’s prepared me.

Cheers to the melting pot that is Irish Fest!

Going home: Nevin’s reunion

2010-08-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

When I drove into Evanston, I felt a weird combination of excitement and sadness. (I think people call it nostalgia.) Because I realized that virtually all of my memories of the mid 1990s involve Nevin’s Pub.

I first started going to to Nevin’s in 1994 with my grad school friends. Eboni, Rachel, Holly, Tom, Murph, Leigh, and I would eat clam strips and cream cheese balls on Thursdays.

We’d also run into Tommy on our school-night adventures. Sure, he’s all grown up now (here he is with Kobe and Quincy, whose 3rd birthday was yesterday), but in the mid ’90s, he spent a lot of time at the pub. We all did.

To maximize my time there, I started dropping in with my roommates — Jen, Joe, and Charlie, and later, Ed and Chris. In retrospect, it was inevitable that I'd work at Nevin’s.

It's not just the friends and cocktails I remember. My love of shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and chicken pot pie — borne of my time there — has endured. (I also get a little lump in my throat whenever I see a block of Kerrygold Swiss.)

Eventually I made my own friends there. Like Joanna. We used to go to the Fish Market and eat lunch and then go shopping at Old Orchard. There were also some long conversations about what we were going to wear to the Christmas party.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that Nevin’s felt like home. I felt like I was missing something if I was away for more than a couple of days.

So I was skeptical about going to the reunion. It had been 13 years since I moved away, and wouldn’t I be tempting fate to revisit my old home?

I didn’t need to worry. Right after I walked in, Joanna told me how Sarah McLachlan’s “Ice Cream” reminded her of me. And we remembered Jamie saying that ice cream is a depressing topic. Ah, the soundtracks of alcohol-fueled drama.

We also tried to piece together the happenings of a crazy night at her friend Torby’s place (was it a house or an apartment? were there aggressive cats? or an incontinent dog?). Torby doesn’t remember the night in question but thinks it sounded like him.

These memories (or blurry interpretations of reality), oh how I cherish them. For a couple of hours, it was okay to be stuck in the past. Even better than okay: reliving those times, it was a nice place to visit and remember who we used to be.

Gnomeless on a big birthday

2010-08-10T21:54:00.000-07:00

Patty and Dave hosted a 136-year party: They both turned 50, and their daughters, Molly and Robyn, turned 18.

Befitting a family with multiple milestones, this was a party to end all parties. Artichoke dip was had and scotch was drunk — much of it by one guest, I might add.

We all mingled outside, on another beautiful summer night. I got to hear some great stories from Dave’s parents, too (like when his dad played state league at age 77 on Dave’s team).

The only thing missing? The gnome. “Patty has the gnome, but it refused to come out for the party,” Dave said.

How odd, as the gnome is not afraid of crowds. The tennis gang spent a lot of time in the family room, admiring the collection of books, and we never saw him.

I suspect this four-milestone family will have trouble passing him along. But his travels continue.

Cheers!

The Shapsons and a short film

2010-08-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

Shappy invited us to a fundraiser at Bucketworks for an upcoming short film by his son, Sam Shapson.

Sam, Victoria, and Brent (who are the director and producers) are currently students at Columbia College, and they mingled and presented the concept behind Harvest.

With its focus on childhood fears and cornfields, the film will address the question of whether monsters are real. (I hope it isn’t as terrifying as Children of the Corn.)

Yesterday was a beautiful sunny day — no worries in sight — and we celebrated everyone’s efforts afterward with margaritas and tacos at La Fuente.

For details about the film and how you can contribute, check out Sam’s Kickstarter page.

Colleen's birthday and the last match

2010-08-05T20:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the very last match of our summer state-league season, at Lake Country.

Of course each team had two wins. So everything came down to this court, our #1 doubles team. No pressure.

Carol and I came to watch, and we could not have asked for a more exciting match. We clapped and yelled while trying to keep a respectful distance. (Tennis is a tough sport to be a spectator at, when you're trying to be supportive but not distracting.)

They couldn’t hear us through the glass. Maybe it was the big earrings.

The second set was close, but Colleen and Marilee won.

Then, in a picture-perfect finish, they won the third set. Go team! We celebrated with cake and champagne.

It was also Colleen's birthday (though not a milestone). We figured out that she'll be the gnome keeper for several years unless we add new people to the group.

As Manuel likes to say when he returns a shot his opponent thought would be a winner: “I don't think so!"

Cheers!

Preschool artwork

2010-08-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Steve delivered this piece of artwork. He and his family had just visited Mary Tooley, our preschool art teacher. She gave him a masterpiece he had done and this one of mine to take back.

I’m blown away that she kept our work for over three decades. She told him that she doesn’t save tons of things but she remembered how much we loved art.

Of my circa 1974 bowl-haircut-and-bellbottoms number, Mrs. Tooley said, “I loved it! It is impossible to look at that picture and not be happy.”

What makes me happy is that it’s a wonderful connection to Children’s Workshop and to the past in general. Steve was one of my first friends. And Mrs. Tooley was the first teacher I admired. With her bright red hair, she was so fun and chic (not that I knew what "chic" meant yet).

So thanks for bringing back more good Tosa memories!

Papa, you ignored the chocolate almonds?

2010-07-28T21:34:00.000-07:00

I came home to a crazy sight: two dozen dark chocolate almonds, arranged in a crop circle.

Oh no, of course: After the 11 chocolate donuts incident, this could have been another disaster, both health- and home-wise. My living room carpet can’t handle much more of Papa’s stunts.

Yet while I hesitate to praise Pops about this, I do find her self-control admirable.

Good girl, Papa?

The Byrne Identity premiere

2010-07-24T17:57:00.000-07:00

Steve Byrne’s special, The Byrne Identity, premieres at 10 p.m. ET July 25 on Comedy Central. I'm going to Michelle's to eat Chex mix and watch it!

Here's a new clip (with a twist on Asians being good at math).

Check out one of his live shows if you get a chance, too!

My new flower necklace

2010-07-23T12:51:00.000-07:00

My metal flower necklace, “Bib in bloom,” is on the cover of the September issue of BeadStyle.

Working with metals (and cup chain) is a departure from my usual gemstone-y style, but I couldn't resist the metal flowers when I saw them. Unfortunately, I ordered them and then let them sit on my desk for a couple of months. I was glad to finally turn them into a project!

By the way, the flowers are from The Beadin' Path and Ornamentea), and the cup chain is available at Michaels or Alacarte Clasps & WireLace.

I did a lot of trial-and-error with positioning the flowers, but the necklace was super easy to make. Check out the issue for a complete supply list and instructions!

Oh no, Mr. Tippy!

2010-07-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

Hal has a rabbit named Peter Tippy. Here's how he describes him:

“The pads of his feet are gray, which makes him look like he’s wearing little slippers. He loves to eat dandelions.”

Mr. Tippy also seems to enjoy books and looking like an adorable butterball.

But do you see the gleam in his eye?

On a regular basis, he bites Hal — and only Hal. Why bite the hand that feeds (while being fed, no less)?

It's a mystery. Oh no, Mr Tippy.