Rachel Travels, Cooks, Works, Dreams

Rachel's Reflections

2010-12-15T14:51:00.000-08:00

The following was part of our company (Karpen Steel) e-news letter that I thought I would share with everyone. I also used it for our company luncheon with a few ad-libs, edits and so forth. (FYI, last year my theme was traditions).

2010 has been a year for reflecting and figuring out new ways to look at my daily life both at work and at home. A lot of these changes were based on outside influences, things I had no direct way of controlling. How I chose to deal with these changes has been through various means, some of which I have learned in my Yoga classes.

For instance, our instructors teach us to focus on the here and now and not worrying about what comes next. So, when we are doing a specific exercise, the idea is to work hard to master that exercise to the best of our own personal ability, not to compare ourselves to the person next to us, but to try our best and persevere. Perseverance is not about working ourselves so hard that we collapse unable to do the next exercise. It is working hard and stretching ourselves to continually improve. I have also learned perseverance through another exercise class, which is an intense workout. I have seen some people unable to finish the workout because they started out too hard too soon, without building up their stamina, instead of setting realistic goals for each session.

How does this apply to work? I have learned not to worry about the future (plan and persevere, yes), to work my hardest every single day, and to make sure that the company produces the best quality product every single day. I have also learned that when things get the best of me, to retreat to my office and take big deep "yoga breaths" or go outside and get some fresh air and regroup. I will be the first to admit that I don't always do this soon enough, but life and self-improvement is a journey.

Part of living in the moment is also pausing to reflect on my surroundings and to appreciate the people in my life, especially my husband. One day we stopped a class for a few moments to appreciate the sunset, which was beautiful, and which will never be the same again. Likewise, I am learning to take some time off, to travel, to take long walks building up to short hikes, to taste really good wine made in North Carolina and so forth.

Let this year's holidays create memories you will long cherish, and may 2011 allow you to improve your present abilities, to learn new skills and to relish the joys of everyday life.

President

Greetings of the Season

Rachel’s dog, Panda, wishes you all happy holidays on behalf of all of us at Team Karpen Steel.

Veterinarians

2010-11-18T17:29:00.000-08:00

One of our dogs, Panda, needed to have some surgery today at the vets. She had her teeth cleaned and she had a growth on her ear removed. We scheduled both for the same day so that should would only have one traumatic day. But it was 2 different vets at the animal hospital that did the surgery.

What has always amazed and amused me about the Animal Hospital of North Asheville is how awesome they
are and how much they check up on you. I always wished that our pediatrician had been as in touch with us. First we had a check in appointment today where everything was thoroughly explained to me. Then when Panda was in surgery, we had phone calls from each of the doctors, and one after she went into recovery. And, they were very thorough with written instructions on how to care with her tonight besides verbally reviewing everything with us.

And, I know that during the next few days they will call us at least 2 more times to check in with Panda (or more). Based on past history with this group, you never feel neglected and they are always available to answer questions or concerns.

So, why when I need to talk to my regular physician is it so hard to get someone to return a call? Or to check up on us afterwards, or to see if we need more information. I think one big thing is that with animals who can't express themselves in words, they want to make sure we know what to expect. And customer service is paramount, when everything that is done for them is really "elective". We don't typically have insurance for dogs, and they want us to be satisfied and wanting to come back to their practice. In fact, one of the other vets stopped by to chat with me for a few minutes while I was in the waiting room and I got a chance to ask her about the med dosage for my other dog.

So, this is really a thank you to the awesome care that my dogs receive at the animal hospital, and to let everyone know that great customer service makes a difference in everything that all of us do!

Changes

2010-11-14T16:16:00.000-08:00

What I hate being an owner of a small company, is trying to make changes. Not just the thought of what people will accept, but having to keep so much of the work "quiet" until it is time for an announcement. I guess that this is not true just about changes, but also about fun projects (like the T-shirts we did a couple of months ago), or the Holiday presents that just arrived and are stashed away.

I think it is the secrecy that is hard to deal with. So, my research, or my plans, or my thoughts can only be shared with 1 or at the most 2 other people. On small things, this is fairly easy, but on larger projects it gets harder. Whether the changes are big and awesome and good, or the changes are thing we wish didn't have to happen it takes its toll on me until it is implemented and rolling along.

I guess this is why outside management consultants manage to stay in business. They become a confidant outside of the organization. But, who can afford that luxury in these times? And, I can't talk with my husband about some of the things on my mind ( because he also works at the same company), and I can't talk with my immediate family members (like my mom or brother), so I talk to myself. The best thing is, I usually agree with myself.

One fun change that is now implemented is the fact that Dana and I are now taking a 1/2 day off every week for US. Not to do laundry or grocery shopping, but to explore, hike, walk, talk, eat out and have fun. This past week we went to downtown Asheville to Lexington Avenue Brewery. We both had a flight of 6 beers, really good food to eat, and then walked around down town for quite a while. Before heading out we stopped at a used book store where I had credit. We are planning on doing this at least through the spring.

The economic situation has caused all of us to have changes at work and at home. Change is not all bad, it can be good and I plan on continuing to enjoy the challenges ahead.

New Computer

2010-10-24T15:40:00.000-07:00

Computers are supposed to make our life easier -- right? Wrong!!

I have an 8 year old desktop computer at home, and finally upgraded to a fairly high end laptop. So, unlike my $300 (which was actually free) laptop which I had decided to basically use for travel, I decided to load everything onto this one.

Problem number one -- trying to get my ipod to synch and move my songs to the new computer. I got so far and then got stuck -- didn't help that the instructions were written for both a mac and a windows computer -- interspersing the two. Finally got my dear husband to help me with it and he approached in a different manor, and finally done.

It was a little easier to move Quicken that I use for personal finances, I bought an upgraded copy and the move went fairly easy last week. The biggest problem was setting up a disk (formatting) to do the backups.

The hardest part, was moving my contacts. I am one of those few homeowners that was still using Outlook. So, first I went through and deleted about 100 contacts that were obsolete. And, I had created a gmail account that all my charter e-mail goes to. But, to actually move the contacts, also involved my dear husbands help. But, the good news -- I can now easily contact all my friends and relatives when I am traveling, as prior to this my only cloud e-mail account was my work account. Yeah, I have moved up in the world.

I have a couple of things left to do such as backing up photos and word docs and figuring out which if any saved e-mails I want to print, or move their "important" information into my new world.

You will be happy to know I did manage to set up my new wi-fi printer all by myself, although I haven't quite learned all the ins and outs. For instance, I can print to it from anywhere as it has its own e-mail address. Hmmmm. printer seems smarter than me.

So, I am happy, have started to clean up my disaster of an office, and I know how reasonably fast internet access from anywhere in my house!!

PS -- I am trying to figure out the concept of ecologically sound. For instance, the cords for the printer were packed in a nice reusable nylon case -- and they made a big point of it being reusable -- but the cords were still also packed in plastic bags. Ditto for the printer -- in a really nice nylon bag, but it was surrounded in the box with Styrofoam. Go figure!

Chicago

2010-10-06T04:42:00.000-07:00

Growing up, the only business trips I remember my dad taking were to Chicago. Later learned that they were for visits to UL for fire testing of doors. Only recently however, I figured out that he never went to downtown Chicago, but to the outskirts in a different direction. (Which may be why my presents were always from the airport).

When I joined Karpen Steel in 1986, my first business trip was to Chicago for the annual Door and Hardware trade show, with my dad. It was Karpen Steel's first time exhibiting at the show. It was windy, rainy, and not a nice introduction to the city. Now, it turns out I go to Chicago 1 to 2 times a year for meetings and so forth, and I have grown to love the city. The city of today is so much nicer than it was 25 years ago. Great restaurants, friendly staffs, and so forth. So, now I present to you just a few pictures of my most recent trip to Chicago (and third time there for the door and hardware show).

This was taken from Navy Pier where the convention was held.

This was the original entrance into the Palmer House Hotel - no longer used.


If you know who these look a likes are, you watch professional football. And, if you don't, you won't care.

Making a presentation during one of the educational sessions.

Karpen Steel trade show booth. It plays off of our advertising. We like to keep it clean, and bright.

Putting Life in Perspective

2010-10-02T13:47:00.000-07:00

It is October 2nd and I just came out of the swimming pool. Life is good. Hard to believe it was warm enough to swim, but I truly think this will be our last weekend of swimming. Can't remember the last time we swum in October. Just before that we were at Vino Vino for a Saturday wine tasting, and tonight we are going to a friends house for a party.

Last week I was in Chicago for an industry trade show. It sure was hard to keep my perspective as our first major speaker was on how bad the economy is (and the title of the session was Forum for the Future). We knew it was bad because our lunch was a little skimpy. But, I was bound and determined not to talk about the economy while working on drumming up business for my company.

People that are closer to my age (or older) at the show understood my comments about, OK, so work isn't as busy as it should be... so more time for my husband, for Yoga classes, for cooking, and travel. We have a long weekend planned to the wine country in NC, which has really come into its own in the past few years. And, the good news is, I very rarely work a Saturday anymore. And, next week we are taking a half day off to go to the Biltmore Estate (they have a new area with a tavern that we want to check out).

So, putting life in perspective has been a good thing for me. I am working on a jigsaw puzzle, and not feeling nearly so stressed about quantity of work to do in a day. Someday soon I would like to be so busy that we all have to work on a Saturday. But, for now, we celebrate life.

I wanted to post some Chicago photos -- I have some great pictures, but am in the progress of changing computers, and just haven't had time to download them etc. But the weather was awesome. One day we walked about 50 minutes to a place for deep dish pizza. Sure, we could have gotten a cab or a bus, but the only way I think to see a city in on foot - and we had time.

I also bought a second T-Shirt with the saying "Optimistic by Nature". Now, many of you may not believe that about me, but truly I am. I look at all the possibilities, but I don't fret and worry. I act, and I act on my optimism. I ordered T-Shirts recently for everyone at work that say "Proudly Made in Weaverville NC". A real pessimist would have not spent the money, but I know that employee morale needs to be kept up during these rough times, and everyone loves a new company t-shirt.

I just wish I could put some energy into cleaning up my home office. It is almost hopeless - I let it get really bad during the times I was swamped at work and with home stuff. Now I don't know where to begin. But, if it is a sunny day, I'd rather be swimming, and walking, or sitting outside on the deck with a book.

It may seem like I am rambling but it is where I am at right now. Calm, fairly cool, working to better my life in a fun way, and taking time to enjoy whatever life throws at me. And, keeping up with my friends, some of whom I really need to have lunch with again.

Food - Organically Grown, A night on the farm

2010-09-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

This summer we have done a CSA 1/2 share. For those of you that are not familiar with this -- it is Community Supported Agriculture. We pay for our vegetables from a farmer during the winter, giving the farmer a chance to get their seedlings started and so forth with a guaranteed amount of money. Then, each week during the summer we got a box of wonderfully fresh, organically grown vegetables. Let me tell you this was an experience! We learned to cook every green imaginable (Kale, Spinach, Swiss Chard, and more), as well as lots of japanese veggies like endamame, bok choy, and others that we love, along with the traditional carrots and potatoes and tomatoes. As much as I loved all the food, we had a problem with an old refrigerator that kept freezing my greens if I didn't use them right away (now replaced with a new one), and when we traveled we had to find someone else to use our share.

Paul Littman is an awesome farmer and marketer. He knows how to talk about his vegetables, and to put them out in extremely attractive arrangements (nicer than a lot of the tail gate farmers). This was his first really big year of doing the CSA shares, and last night we went to a pot luck dinner at the farm. It was awesome. They had music, and food, a beautiful night, and farm tours. Have you ever seen shitake mushrooms growing on oak logs? And be told that it takes over a year to get a log to produce for the first time? And then learn all sorts of organic and sustainable ways to farm? Paul is a great educator, giving us lots of information without boring us. Although I might not do a CSA share next year, he will continue to be my tailgate farmer of choice. We saw some people we knew at the farm, and met lots of new people. I definitely want to get to know the person better who brought about 10 loaves of hot out of the oven fresh baked rustic breads! And Paul's wife Anna made some awesome eggplant lasagna (no noodles) with fresh tomato's and eggplant.

I had forgotten what fun an informal gathering like this can be. We stayed until the last light leaving with just enough light to walk back through the field down to our car. And we left with big smiles on our faces.

Tomorrow I leave for Chicago. I am almost all packed, just a few last minute things to throw into the suitcase. And, another friend will get my CSA share this week.

How I Spent my Summer Vacation - Part 2

2010-09-12T17:53:00.000-07:00

After the time in Maine, we came home for a fast couple of weeks, unpacked, and then repacked for our planned long vacation to Utah and Nevada. The original itinerary was 8 nights away from home, the final itinerary, 10 nights away from home. We tacked on an extra night in Las Vegas to see a show that was "dark" on our planned 2 nights there, and then tacked on a night on Charlotte, NC to go to a Comic Con. But, I think I am getting ahead of myself.

Quite a few years ago, we did Bryce Nation Park, North Rim of Grand Canyon, and Zion National Park as a long family vacation. Adam kept asking that we repeat this vacation, but add in Las Vegas for shows. So, we dropped North Rim of Grand Canyon, and made our plans 11 months before the planned trip. We like to stay at the National Park Lodges, and those fill up quickly.

First Stop: Bryce National Park. This is not one of the more well known parks. Most people say, have you been to Arches? No, not been to Arches, but would return to Bryce in a heartbeat. Of all the 3 parks that I've mentioned, our favorite for trails, for view, for less crowds and so forth. Only negative, not many places to eat (choice of Ruby's just outside the park) or the National Park Lodge (good food, a bit pricey).

I had worked hard over the winter to get ready for a hiking trip. Treadmill, bike, zumba, yoga and more. I wanted to build stamina and some muscles. And it worked. We hiked about 5 miles each day and although it was still tough, it wasn't out of my ability. At Bryce you hike down first into the canyon, and then go back up at the end.

Our cabin at Bryce. Complete with resident mice. We stopped at the store to pick up food supplies for picnics and bought a big plastic container to put them into. Last time here we shared our food with the mice. This time, no sharing.


At the edge of the canyon, all ready to go for a hike. It took an extra suitcase for all of our gear.

A Hoodoo

National Park Lodge at Bryce


We saw a lot of deer both at Bryce and at Zion.

At night we would play card games back at the cabin after sunset. We watched the sunset from the rim of the canyon each night. Very peaceful, very beautiful and typically a bit on the cool side. Then we would go back to our cabin and play card games or read books. No internet access which was awesome. My plans to download pictures and write each night didn't happen either -- too tired from hiking. But what a nice tired.

I forgot how long it takes to upload pictures into blogger. So, I am going to post this part of the trip, and then work on the next park - Zion.

What Happened This Summer?

2010-09-07T17:47:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that I have not blogged since May. I guess it was because my summer started off so strange, and then with my dear son home from school, the evenings were filled with watching movies, and playing games, and some how now it is past labor day. So, as my New Years Resolution I am back to blogging (faithfully I hope). There is so much to write about, but I will start with one major event at a time and hopefully also post some pictures.

Well, right after college got out, we headed up to Maine for the burial of my father in law. Yes, he passed away during the winter, but in Maine they don't bury until the ground has thawed out. We coincided the date of his burial with his birthday. The best part of the trip was seeing all of my husband's family, whom I hadn't seen for quite a few years. We rented a big van, drove around the coast of Maine, ate and drank, and talked and reminisced.

What was really hard for us, is that my father in law and husband used to talk every Sunday evening at about the same time. So, for months I planned our eating and so forth not to coincide with the normal phone call time, even though we knew no call would come. Force of habit.

So, here are a few photos from the trip

Yes, this is a 1500 pound chocolate moose! What a tourist attraction -- in the back of a really nice candy shop.

My brother in law - walking around ruins of an old building on the coast.

Pizza had to come from Pat's. We worked at the original one during our first year of marriage while going to school full time. What memories. There are definitely better pizzas out there, but none that evoke the feelings of seeing a Pats Pizza Box (and we still knew the old prices from way back when!)


Two brothers and a sister.


My favorite picture from the trip. Lighthouse in South Portland, ME


In Memory.

The Aches and Pains of Getting Old

2010-05-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was sitting at my desk at work and I got a shooting pain in my leg. Turns out it was a shin splint but I don't know why or how I got it. I usually know (too much walking on pavement at Disney), or whatever. But, the only thing I can figure is something I did at Pilates Thursday night. Argh! Very frustrating, I ended up not doing my Zumba class, iced it quite a few times throughout the day and night and today it is mostly better.

This morning, my husband woke up with an excruciating painful back problem. He has been seeing both his chiropractor and massage therapist regarding this problem, but for some reason it took a turn for the worse. So, here I am at work on a Saturday working with my nephew who is also our IT person as he does computer upgrades, maintenance, and stuff I don't full understand. So, by the end of the day I will have a really clean desk (or at least part of it) because I don't have any work work I really need to do today. Now, if only I could train my dogs to do the loads of laundry that are waiting for me at home.

What is so frustrating, is that we will be leaving on a vacation soon to go out to Bryce and Zion parks to do some hiking, and then to Las Vegas (where we will also walk a lot) and to see some shows. And we will need to keep up with our 21 year old son who doesn't have all the aches and pains of getting old. I am glad we waited til we were a bit older to have a child, but as we get older it is harder to keep up with him.

My mom is almost 90 and still living alone at her home. I see things that lead me to believe that she too is getting old (I guess at her age she has the right to be getting old). She has trouble with her manual dexterity due to arthritis in her fingers (if this is hereditary I too will probably get like that as my grandmother also had arthritis problems). She is still active, and she is still driving, and she is planning a big birthday bash for this summer.

So, I see more and more the importance of keeping up with my Yoga, strength training, and so forth. And my diet has become much healthier in the past few years. I hope it all pays off and although I have aches and pains, I want to be living in our own place when we are 90.

Obama in Asheville

2010-04-23T12:07:00.000-07:00

President Obama is in Asheville. So how does this affect me? Well for Admin Professional Week I took the two women from my office in to downtown Asheville to paint pottery and for lunch. Well, we literally could NOT get out of town after lunch. All the expressways were blocked because of Obama. We figured out, OK, we would take the river road home. Nope. Obama and his wife decided to eat at 12 Bones (Ribs) where they had gotten food from during the campaign stop here 2 years ago. That was my root down to the river. So, decided to go through Biltmore village, nope, bridge construction. Finally headed south, hit the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and made the 12 minute drive from Asheville to Weaverville in about 50 minutes! Thank goodness I didn't run out of gas, as I started out with a quarter tank.

People are taking the long routes home to get home from work, and parents are having trouble picking up their kids from school. What a mess!

Anyways, the pottery painting was fun! The lunch (brick oven fired pizzas) was delicious. Can't wait to go back and pick up the pottery after it has been fired. Should be ready in about a week.

Computer Updates

2010-04-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

I hate computer updates. I have two computers I use at home. An older one that I mostly use for keeping track of my finances, and doing my email because I have been too lazy to move it over, and a newer laptop. And, they both demanded updates tonight that needed to reboot my computer. They are running on different windows operating systems. I understand we want things better, faster, brighter, and so forth, but it just burns me up. I am all ready to do something or other on my computer... and it says update me, update me, you didn't really want to do anything else!!

Oh well, now I am tired, but they are both updated. Maybe tomorrow they won't need anything from me and we will get along better. Oh, and of course, laptops always decide on needing updates when you are in the airport, with only a limited amount of time and or battery life. But, I have learned to check for as many updates as possible before a trip (if I have time in between packing, paying bills, watering plants, and leaving instructions for the dog sitter).

Tailgate Market / Weaverville

2010-04-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

The Weaverville Tailgate market opens today. Hooray!! I have pre-ordered my fish, because otherwise at 5;30 they are almost all sold out. Hoping for some baked goods, and some spring lettuce for a salad. Starting in May I will be getting a half share from a local farm. Can't wait to see what all he brings this year, and his produce was by and far the best that I had from the vendors last year. If you'd like to see more information about the local market in Weaverville check out their web site: http://weavervilletailgate.org/ . What is nice, is that it gives me something to look forward to in mid-week. And I need some more "Rainbow Jam" as we just ran out of our last jar (I bought extra at the last fall tailgate to last me through the winter). The matzoh at passover finished it off.

No More Broken Bones

2010-04-10T05:07:00.000-07:00

About 2 1/2 years ago, I twisted my foot at work, and then high excruciating pain only to find out the next day that I had broken my foot. After having it in a walking cast and so forth I asked the bone doctor, well, based on my age (young 50's) and a history in my family (mom and grandmother) of osteoporosis, could you test me for it? His answer, no.He was only a doctor to fix a problem, not prevent future ones. So, went to my regular doctor, got bone density screening found out I did indeed have osteoporosis and went on a regimen to turn it back for the past 2 years. Since you can only have the test every two years I had to wait to see if all of this would do any good.

GOOD NEWS. I got my second bone density screening a few weeks ago and the osteoporosis is gone! Between weight bearing exercise, medicine, increased calcium, and change of diet (less sodas) I was able to regain my bone density. Yeah!! I still need to keep it up -- so I don't go back to where I was. Doesn't mean I won't break another bone, but if I do, it shouldn't be so easy to do. I am proud of myself for sticking to the regimen and making new habits for myself. And good news is always worth sharing.

Toothache

2010-04-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

This past few weeks I have been feeling kind of drug out and wore out. Went to the dentist for a cleaning, and mentioned that I'd been having a bit of a toothache. Well, he sent me to a specialist (since it was in an area where I had a root canal done) and she did all of her tests. Problem was, that she couldn't pin point it to one tooth, each test came up with a different tooth. So, she concluded it was a sinus infection! Turns out that the roots go into the sinus cavity. So, now I am on an antibiotic and feeling quite a bit better all around. Did a Zumba class last night, and still had a little energy left over. I am so glad that I mentioned this to my dentist. It makes sense, we have everything blooming here and budding out. Daffodils, forsythia and more. Yeah!! We finally have spring which also makes me very happy.

In Memory and Sharing Memories

2010-03-03T05:35:00.000-08:00

Today is a very reflective day for me. This is the anniversary of my father's passing. This is the month that my mother-in-law passed away many years ago, and this week on Monday my father-in-law passed away. (He was 91 1/2 years old). All of the emotions have me on a roller coaster ride of thoughts. My husband has to travel up to Maine for the memorial service, and I can't go along because our son is home for the winter break (and winter it is, we had 8" of snow yesterday). I also couldn't go to his mother's service as child care was an issue back then. And, then in the summer he will go back for the burial. There is so much he is dealing with, and then I keep remembering my dad and his dad.

On a lighter note, today at work we are sharing memories with a large anniversary celebration for some employees. 2-employees have hit their 20-year anniversary with the company, and 1-employee has hit his 10-year anniversary. With 29 employees total, we now have 6-active employees with 20 years service. So, we will tell stores, share memories, eat a wonderful meal, and eat from 3-different cakes.

My mom was working yesterday on wording for some save the date cards for her 90th birthday. She put on it no gifts. I added, bring memories and stories to share. For people live in the hearts of those that remember them, and the stories will include people that are no longer with us, and the stories will make sure that her stories become part of us. As will the stories that we tell today at our luncheon, as will the stories that my husband and his brother and sister will share this weekend up in Maine.

Memories also puts into perspective what is important in life. Living, Loving, Sharing, Laughing and Caring for others.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

2010-02-19T06:14:00.000-08:00

How long has it been since you watched Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs? For me it has been about 15 years or so. So, when our son suggested we watch it last night, it was sure, why not. The singing voice for Snow White is definitely old style, but the animation, look at it carefully, is absolutely awesome. Remember, this was released in 1937 and was all hand drawn. No computers, No Copiers, No Scanners. All by hand. We have lost so much craftsmanship through the years (compare buildings from 100 years ago and all the ornate artwork to the block square buildings of today). Anyways, he is going through a book of 1000 movies you need to see in your lifetime, and although he has been working on it for a few years, the 1930s have a huge section in the book. I know we are watching another one tonight.

So, on the next cold, snowy, night and you are bored with reality TV, and want a fun movie to watch, either pull Snow White off of your shelf, or go down to the nearest video rental place. You will be glad you did. I know I was.

How's Work?

2010-02-16T18:42:00.000-08:00

When I am not at work, I like to think that there is more to me than my work self. I have a lot of interests and different hobbies. Yes, I read business magazines and newspapers at home, but they help to round out my knowledge on so many different topics. Like the wonderful wine column in the Wall Street Journal, or articles about having a personal life while running a business in Inc Magazine. So, why is How's Work the topic of this blog? Because I have a brother (yes dear readers, if you know my family you know who it is) and his first question when he calls is hows work? It is because he doesn't know anything else to ask. But, in my eyes, it is nosy, impersonal, and not what I want to discuss at 9:00 at night when I am spending time with my family and winding down after a long day at work. I know that he means well, but it still gets me mad. It isn't just because of the fact that the last year and a half have been tough to be a business person in this country, and because I am under a lot of stress to keep the company running smoothly.

You know I realize that at any social function (not work related) it is really not a good question to ask. If you want to ask about work, ask specific questions that show you care. Such as how are your employees doing personally with short work weeks? How are you enjoying not having to work on Saturdays since business is slow and so forth.

For now, I will just say work is fine. My employees have been very loyal to the company. We are all working hard to weather not just the snow but the continued recession and lack of sales. We will pull through.

For fun, I am watching the Olympics. I taped the ice skating pairs last night and the Chinese are now ice skating, it is just incredible to watch!

Snow and more Snow

2010-02-07T06:14:00.000-08:00

I am trying to remember why I moved south. Oh yes, now I know... the weather in New England was getting the best of me. And this winter reminds me why snow in New England is better than snow in the south. New England states actually have snow plows! And, people have snow tires on their cars or drive with chains, or stay home if they don't. Individuals own snow shovels to clear side walks, and driveways instead of just waiting until the snow melts away.

I love snow when it covers the brown grass and leafless trees and makes everything a winter wonderland. I don't like having to cover for all the employees that can't get into work (we sell all over the country, so we can't shut down our offices.) I love playing in the snow. But I am in the "south". We are not supposed to have as much snow as we have gotten this winter, and we are not done yet! Can you tell? I have cabin fever. I feel confined. And, I see it is lightly snowing again... this is Sunday... I should enjoy it... but all I can think about is, who won't come to work tomorrow?

Anyways, tonight is the Super Bowl. I an enthralled by the big commercials that come out during this event. I like both teams that are playing, so either one that wins will be OK with me.

The local yoga studio keeps shutting down every time there is just a little snow on the ground. So, I'll go to the class at the YMCA this afternoon (hopefully). The Y class is good, but there are 50 people in it... no personal attention. The class at the local studio usually has around 6 people. Either way will be good for my body.

There is a children's rhyme that is rain rain go away come again some other day. I think we need one for snow. (PS... there is good news. We don't have a drought any more in NC, now we have flooding!)

I am amazed

2010-01-18T22:00:00.000-08:00

It is amazing at the Grainger convention I am out. There are 4500 people (about) including all the vendors, sales rep and customers (which is my category). Tonight's entertainment -- a bus ride to Epcot, and one whole side of Future World was shut down to everyone but us. We had dinner, rides to ourselves, free booze, popcorn, and ice cream and a band. After the real Walt Disney World Guests left, we got the run of the other side of future world with another band. And then at 11:45 pm our very own fireworks show (Illuminations). Rough estimate of cost for the events $1 million dollars, by the time they ran charter buses to and fro Epcot, the food, and everything. It was pretty awesome going on a ride with typically an hour (or more wait) and only waiting for about 20 minutes. We did Soaring, Finding Nemo (no wait) Mission Space (no wait), and Eric did Test Track (short wait), which I opted out of at the last minute. Now it is 1:00 am, and I am too wound up to crawl into bed. Tomorrow we have more seminars, more trade show, and then head back home. So, I guess I better get at least a little shut eye.

Dreaming

2010-01-15T05:29:00.000-08:00

I realized looking at my blog profile that dreaming has not been written about much by me. So, what do I dream of doing? Not working. Doesn't mean I won't work, but it would be part-time somewhere fun where I do not have management responsibilities. I love traveling and planning trips and making the arrangements and then going and doing (even when I end up cold or hot or wet). I love taking photos. I love working on large Lego sets (right now building a 3300 piece Lego carousel). I love theater and movies and live performances. As much as I love helping the customers at our company and knowing them as people, I want to not worry about how much in sales we have booked, or whether everyone is doing their job, or how we can cut costs. I want to greet people at a theme park, make sure they have a good time, and then go home at night with no worries, so that I can dream the dreams of a good nights sleep.I want to spend more time cooking really good meals, not necessarily fancy meals, but good food. Watching the food network both inspires me and frustrates me. I want time to try out their recipes and improve my cooking skills, and have time to bake.

I dream of having a life that does not involve getting up at 5:30 in the morning going to work and coming home at 5:30 at night exhausted. There is more to life than this. Yes, with our new financial planner, and with working on adding to our investments every month, I hope to fulfill this dream in about 5 years. Until then, it will be bits and pieces of the dream that I have time to live. Cooking, and traveling, and laughing with my family.

Do you have a dream? What is it? Feel free to share your dreams. I'd love to hear about them.

Exhausted and Cold

2010-01-14T05:21:00.000-08:00

You wonder where I have been? Cold and Exhausted.

Right after the New Year, our family headed to Disney World for some vacation time, and sun and warmth. Well, we went right into record lows for Orlando. Highs of 45 during the day, and lows around 30 at night. Yes we had some clothing, but we were figuring on 60 degree days, and 50 degrees at night (normal January weather). So, I went around with a short sleeved shirt, a long sleeved shirt, a lightweight fleece jacket and a heavier jacket. With 2 hoodies, and a hat I manged to stay reasonable, but not warm. To top it off, the heating unit in our hotel room wasn't working properly, and we didn't get it fixed til the next to last day. Brrrrrr. It was still a fun trip, but the cold really took it out of me.

Then, we get back to NC, and here we are also having record cold days. Lows of about 8 degrees, and highs in the low 30s. But yesterday it was almost 45 in the afternoon, and it felt balmy.

But, here I am back at work, feeling exhausted from the cold, and I didn't get my needed Florida sunshine. But wait, I am going back to Orlando on Sunday for a trade show and it is supposed to be warm and sunny! This is an odd show, Grainger is paying all of our expenses, hotel, plane, food, drink, etc for us to show up to a large trade show about the products that they carry, and go to some of their seminars. No strings attached, except that they hope that we will start buying more from them. I think that there will be about 1000 people in attendance. We even get 4 hours at night at one of the Disney Theme Parks (after hours).

Back to the exhaustion. I haven't been going to my normal exercise club, because I am bored of the one thing that they offer, a circuit. No classes, no cardio equipment and their HVAC system needs to be fixed. Which means if I go, then I have to change clothes in really cold dressing rooms, and the bathroom also is frigid cold. So, my energy level is low and not exercising isn't helping. So, last night I left work early and checked out the new YMCA facility just 4.5 miles from work. For only $12 a month more I get: Classes (Yoga, Zuma, Cycle Spin), Saturday and Sunday Hours, Real Locker Rooms with Showers, and lots of equipment. And, til Jan 31st Sign Up is Free! So, as soon as I get back from Orlando, I am going to sign up and then cancel my other membership.

I took lots of pictures on vacation, but have been too tired to go through. But, I need to do it ASAP, maybe I'll work on some of them on my laptop on the next trip.

A Blessed Event

2009-12-31T04:15:00.000-08:00

My nephew (brothers son) and his wife just had a baby boy. The pictures are amazing, and I am sorry that I can't make the bris, but am glad to be going to Orlando on vacation. What was really touching about the birth is that his middle name (and last name) together make my father's name. I got choked up when I heard and then saw the name in print. Almost a week later, and it still makes me both happy and choked up (in a good way). I am so glad that my father's name will live in this new addition to the family. Mazel Tov to father, mother and son, and to all of his immediate family.

Power Failure - Again!

2009-12-26T18:43:00.000-08:00

After 4 days without power weekend before Christmas, we went out that Monday and bought a generator. Of course, then our power came back on, and we didn't use it. But, we were prepared on Christmas Eve when our power went out due to high winds at 2:00 am. We didn't try to start it then, but Dana fired it up that morning and we had our refrigerator humming, were able to make coffee and had some lights. After throwing away quite a bit of food, last weekend, it was nice to keep the new food we had bought. Heat isn't a problem with a gas fireplace and a gas stove to cook on. The generator was relatively quiet (Honda), and I am so thankful that we now have one. We got our power back around noon on Christmas day. Oh when will they come up with a better method of running power lines?

Snow Pictures

2009-12-24T07:24:00.001-08:00

I finally got my picture software loaded onto my computer, and downloaded my snow photos. I love my new 12 megapixel camera with lots of options (but not too many for me to handle). I ended up getting one without a view finder which is the hardest change for me to handle, I have trouble figuring out which way to hold the camera to get what I want in the picture. (For anyone who cares, it is a Panasonic Lumix DMC-CR1with a Leica Lens, and 8X optical zoom). Picture to left is neighbors house, then Panda playing in the snow.

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Not sure why these penguins are hiding out inside, when they should be out in the snow. But, here they are being grateful for being displayed once a year. (They are part of a large penguin collection that I have). The bear thought that dressed as a penguin he could be part of the grouping.

After the new year we are heading to Disney World. Am looking forward to new camera and being able to download pictures and viewing during our vacation.

Technorati Tags: Snow,Dogs,Penguins

Snow Part 2

2009-12-21T16:20:00.000-08:00

Friday we lost power about 3:00 pm and we just got it back today, Monday at about 6:00 pm. Phew, what a weekend! Fortunately after the last blizzard years ago, we installed a gas fireplace and gas stove as part of our remodel. So, we were warm and could cook... cook the food that was going to spoil out of the refrigerator and freezer! We got out yesterday for about 5 years, checked into a hotel, showered, watched movies, and so forth. Then came back home. Played lots of board games, read a lot of books and generally got massive cabin fever. We had about 12 inches of heavy wet snow. The type that takes down trees, (not sure how many we lost), tops off bushes (including some of our favorite) and so forth. I have some pictures from when it was pretty out, but am too fatigued to post. Right now we still don't have water out of the faucet, but still have plenty from the big jugs that we keep in the house for drinking, etc (and melted snow for the flush).

It's Snowing

2009-12-18T08:58:00.000-08:00

They say that this will be the snow of the year, worse we've had in a number of years. Do I believe the weather people? Ask me again tomorrow night. At any rate, we are down to almost no one in the office. Think I'll eat a bag of mixed nuts for lunch instead of trying to brave the rain/snow and bad weather.

I got a new camera about a week ago, and took some pictures to post... do you see them? Well, that was my best intentions anyways. It is so cool. I took a picture of Panda in the dark, and the flash made the picture look like there were actually lights on! So, today, I am looking at all the nice white snow on the trees and wondering why my camera isn't in my purse. That was part of my idea - have the camera with me at all times to capture events. But, first I need the case I saw at Best Buy but didn't buy yet. I promise to do better. Really.

New Vehicle

2009-12-07T16:33:00.001-08:00

I hate vehicle shopping. I don’t like to test drive cars, especially with the sales person in the vehicle talking to you while you are trying to not wreck the vehicle. But, we needed to replace a 16 year old pick up truck. I pretty much avoided some of the trips out with Dana, but Saturday I really had to go with him. I refused to test drive two vehicles, but the last one I drove around the parking lot. We got a great deal, a car that had about 7000 miles, just driven by a dealer person, and they extended the warranty to 5 years, 60,0000 miles. It is a VW Tiguan, which is basically a small SUV. Will haul quite a bit, not quite as open as a pickup but still a wonderful vehicle for us. And, trust me, a really good buy. It is a bit fancier than originally anticipated but with a tall family, need something a bit larger for the guys to fit into. And best of all, no yucky new car smell! We really wanted a red vehicle, but this one is white. Salesman told us it was the safest color on the road.

Nature Center Holiday Celebration

2009-12-06T12:45:00.000-08:00

We have long been members of the Nature Center, and decided to do their winter holiday lights Friday. First we went out for Indian Food (yum) and then over to the Nature Center. Boy were we disappointed in the happenings. Yes, there were lots of lights, but not many activities. What was fun was a nice brisk walk at night around the grounds. The nicest part was the cabin were they had decorations, and a Santa Claus. I think that they had something going on about once an hour, but there were no carolers and so forth. But, here are some pictures of some of the lights, and a camel that just wouldn't pose. They did have 2 camels in for the occasion.

Movies

2009-12-05T17:58:00.000-08:00

So, what did we see last weekend? Amazingly only one live action movie. First we saw Disney's Christmas Carol in 3-D which was really awesome. It more closely followed the book than other recent movies of the same title, and some people didn't like it because of some of the things that they were "used to". That same day we saw Old Dogs with Robin Williams and John Travolta. Nothing great, but fun. Has not been well rated, but would recommend seeing on DVD.

Day after Thanksgiving we saw Planet 51 and Fantastic Mr. Fox. Both movies were packed, as was the whole movie theatre complex. Planet 51 had a lot of inside jokes that you need to be a regular movie goer to get. But, it was a lot of fun. Our favorite was Fantastic Mr. Fox. It was stop action and was definitely an adult movie. It is based on a Ronald Dahl book, and was absolutely fascinating. It is so amazing the different techniques that can be used to create a movie. In between movies we checked out a new Barnes and Noble (very nice), and afterward tried out a new Italian Restaurant next to the theatre. The place was packed, but with reservations got seated within about 3 minutes. Good food and service.

Our next big movie weekend will be before Christmas. Not sure what we will see, but I am sure that our son will make good recommendations. I am fairly certain it will include the Princess and the Frog and Avatar (but not sure if I will see that one or not). Hard to believe it is already December. Where did this year go?

Traditions

2009-11-26T06:44:00.000-08:00

Many years ago, our family started a tradition of seeing movies on Thanksgiving and the next day. It always seemed like between work and school and household chores there wasn't much time just to spend time together. So the movie theater beckoned to us with all the movies that are released this time of year. So this year, in following that tradition, we are seeing 2 movies today, and 2 tomorrow. Supper tonight will be light fare at home and supper tomorrow night will probably be at a restaurant. I think I'll put some bread in the bread machine to make it more festive. And Saturday I might even bake a pumpkin pie. Whatever is your family tradition, enjoy!

Chicago Photos

2009-11-21T08:23:00.000-08:00

I was in Chicago for a business trip, but had one really nice morning to myself. I walked from the hotel over to Navy Pier. On the way over, I saw some interesting gates that said Northwest University on them. All of the other pictures are in the area surrounding Navy Pier. I loved the outdoor sculptures, and got down real low to take the picture of the last picture to capture the children playing in the park with the Chicago skyline behind them.

New Computer

2009-11-21T07:01:00.001-08:00

I won a laptop! Now I don’t have to hibernate into my office in order to put up a new blog entry. Yeah. It is kind of a low end laptop… no not kind of a really low end. 15” Dell, no office programs, has Vista (was purchased in Aug, but I just got it), no mouse (but I just won one of those also). Well, it was actually winning a laptop. I submitted referral names for a vendor we use, and one of the referrals signed up.

I am trying Windows Life Writer on the laptop to see how it works for posting.

First weekend in Nov I was in Chicago, last weekend Dana was gone to FL to visit his dad, and this weekend Adam is home and we are going to Greenville this afternoon to see a Cirque Du Soleil show. I hope to post some neat photos I took in Chicago once I see how all this works.

Another Trip - Traveling to Chicago

2009-11-05T18:22:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I am off to Chicago on a business trip. I am tired tonight and I always over pack when I am tired. Too tired to decide exactly what I will wear each day, so I bring along options. Usually a bad idea as I end up packing enough to last more than the number of days I am gone. Saturday I will have most of the day to shop or go to museums, or just walk around and enjoy being in a big city. Sunday is meetings all day, then meetings Monday morning and right back to the airport. So, Saturday will be my time - until my first meeting at 3:45. Need to grab my ipod and a book and my phone charger, and then off to bed.

Unexpected VIsitor

2009-11-03T17:17:00.000-08:00

We always keep our spare bed made up. Never know when a friend might drop in, as was the case this past week. We had a call one night, and the next day a guy who hiked the AT with Dana, and who has become a good friend dropped in for a couple of nights. He lives in New Hampshire and was down here to hike, camp, see fall colors and visit. It was like a mini-vacation for us, and D took one day off from work to go hiking with him. Thanks for reminding us what life is all about -- friends and fun. For some reason, last minute visitors seem like so much more fun, no planning, very spur of the moment, and just relaxing on the back porch, drinking wine, and talking and sharing memories of different trips.

New York City Fashion

2009-10-30T18:07:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize just how little shopping opportunities we have in Asheville NC until I walked along 5th Ave, Madison Ave, and more in NYC. And, how I could spot a New Yorker a mile away. Dressed fashionably in black with expensive shoes walking purposefully down the streets. My clothes budget wouldn't last a day in NYC which really explains to me why my sister in law is such an avid sewer of really beautiful fashionable clothes. Oh well. My family (son and husband) didn't let me go near the front entrances to any of these stores, but I will be by myself for most of one day in Chicago on Michigan Avenue in about a week. But, usually one look at a few price tags is all I need to not spend any money!

New York City

2009-10-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

I figure it has to be over 35 years since I have been to NYC. So, the memories were vague and was not sure what to expect. A direct flight from Asheville to Laguardia was certainly convenient and only about 30 minutes to the hotel.

First night there were no real plans, and since the flight was over an hour late leaving Asheville, it made life a bit calmer. Our hotel was a really nice one at 62nd St and Park Ave. Nice size room with kitchenette but no real view. We found a movie theatre (thanks to the concierge) and saw "Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs". Better than expected. Afterwards, we hit Dylans Candy bar for dessert (cupcakes) and candy shopping - yum.

Friday we walked across Central Park (and it was cleaner, and safer than I remember) and went to the Museum of Natural History. Lots of fun. My favorite was the dioramas that haven't changed since I was a kid. Husband loved the dinosaurs, and mammals, and just about everything.

Friday night was dinner in the theater district, then into the Toys R Us (which is so big, it has a Ferris wheel in it!) and then to see Mary Poppins, which was just off of Times Square. This was at the New Amsterdam Theater which was the most gorgeous of all the theaters we went into. And, the singing, and sets and show was fantastic. It is so hard to describe, they added some songs, deleted some from the movie, and, well we were in the second row and it was fabulous. Every night we walked down to the theater district and then took a taxi back to the hotel.

Saturday we had 2 plays to go see --On the way down we did some shopping -- F A O Schwarz, and Disney Store were the highlights. We started with a Matinee Performance of Avenue Q (Just Moved Off Broadway). The best way to describe this show is "Sesame Street for Adults". Four of the developers actually worked on Sesame Street at one time. There are muppets, run by people that you see (but they blend in) and people, and a street scene of an old NY City neighborhood. To give you an idea, one of the song titles is "What do you do with a BA in English?". Although it wasn't the glitziest show that we saw, we really enjoyed it the most (probably had to do with the fun, and the adult theme) The building we were in housed about 6 theaters total.

The evening show was "Wicked". The one everybody goes to see in NY. It is based on the book, but does not follow the plot of the book. The singing in this show was operatic in quality and in that regard was awesome. Our seats were not as good as some of the theaters (almost last row of the Orchestra -- row Y), but none the less a wonderful performance. Compared to Avenue Q the theater was huge!!

We learned fast to walk a couple of avenues away from Broadway to get taxis after the show back to the hotel, and having a tall son, helped us to find an empty one.

Sunday was Central Park Zoo. Quite small, but very nice -- and we did the children's zoo area also. Looking for a place for lunch, we did a real NY treat -- pizza by the slice. Yummy. We ended up at a Borders Book Store near our hotel, bought a lot of books, and then had to run Dana back to the room with them. Adam and I walked down to the district and we were going to meet Dana and do the Wax Museum. But, the line just was not moving, and we ended up in Ripley's Believe It or Not next door. It was fun, followed by an early supper as our Sunday play was at 7:00.

Sunday we ended with Shrek the Musical (after eating Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe, Times Square). It was fun, but unfortunately we had the understudy for Shrek. Not as good as the other plays, but had we not seen the other ones we have been wowed! Maybe 4 plays in 1-weekend is too much!?

As you can see, we didn't explore all of NYC, but we still had a blast. I got to see the Torah's being carried at the Temple near our hotel (they were crossing from one building into another one), we got to see part of a parade that went on for over 3 hours, and we got to have a good time together.

Monday we had breakfast at LaGuardia airport (yum!) so we treated ourselves to lunch at Stoney Knob when we got home. Stoney Knob is about 1/2 the price of the same meals in NYC! Made it seem more than affordable.

Sorry for the long time that it took me to finish this entry. I really wanted to buy a new camera in NYC, but with Simchat Torah the store I wanted to go to was closed, and another one was too far away. Oh well, may have to live with Best Buy.

Apologies to my New York Relatives

2009-10-05T17:07:00.000-07:00

This is an advance apology to all my relatives in NY that have been reading my blog. Yes, we are going to be in New York City this weekend. No, we don't plan on seeing any of you. Why you ask? Well, Adam wanted a trip to NYC to see Broadway Plays, and see some of the city. So, we arrive Thursday afternoon. See a play Friday night, two on Saturday (one matinee), one on Sunday (early evening), and then leave Monday morning. I love visiting relatives, so please don't be insulted. The problem lies in wanting to sleep in, wanting to explore with no schedule, and then having a schedule to get to the theaters. So, don't be mad at me. Just be glad that I am taking my son on his first trip to New York. And, introducing him to the culture that I grew up with.

And yes, I will blog on our return about the plays and what we liked.

Summer is Over

2009-10-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

My definition of a good weekend during the summer is having nice enough weather to swim in our pool on both Saturday and Sunday. This weekend although the weather was only about 75 degrees, we turned on the pool heater and went for some very relaxing swims. This is the first time in a long time that our pool was still open the first week of October. But, now summer and swimming are over. The pool towels have been washed, folded and put away for another year. And the pool people come Wednesday to officially "close the pool".

It seemed like a good idea at the time!

2009-10-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

It seems like I keep over committing myself to different things, and then when the project needs to be done, or the travel needs to happen, or whatever, I find myself exhausted trying to keep my commitment. So, I look back at when and why I said "sure I'll do it" and then always seem to say "it seemed like a good idea at the time."

A year ago, I committed to write two articles for the Door and Hardware Magazine. One was published in September, and the other has a December publication date. I figured I would get them done over the winter when I wasn't as busy, and then there would be no stress. Hmmm.... the first article took me 3-4 months off and on to write and was published in September. I had just barely started the second article (with an Oct. 1 due date), when the first one hit my desk around Sept 10th. So, the last few weeks at work, I scrambled to finish the second article. Thank goodness, I managed to get about a week extension from the publication. I did finish the text in time to have 2 different people proof it for me (for technical and grammatical errors), and it is going to them with a couple of days to spare. Phew. But the stress showed.

And then there is the trip to Roanoke for one night stay. Sure, I told my mom months ago, anytime you want to go to Roanoke I'll drive you up there. Now, those of you that saw me there before you get upset -- it was definitely worth it to see all of you and spend time with family. However, it rained on the way up and it poured (heavy rain) on the way back. about 4 hours of driving with short stops. I crashed the next day after I got back and got behind on other things that needed doing (like laundry).

Will I stop saying "sure I'll do that". I doubt it. But, I do realize that the stress I put on myself is from me. And I often wonder if what I said I'd do was a "good idea". Other people do appreciate what I do and it is that appreciation that keeps me saying "sure, I'll do that".

Now, for the fun part of this blog - some pictures from the Roanoke Trip. Went up to Roanoke with my Mom to see my nephew and his wife that live there (they are expecting a boy), and to see my brother from New York with his daughter (my niece) who has been in South Korea for a year.

Here is my brother (in the center) and his two children.

Brother and Sister who haven't seen each other for a year.

Mother / granddaughter (my niece). Hate to say it ... but there is certainly a family resemblance.

Inspired to Bake

2009-09-28T17:14:00.000-07:00

I had a choice about a month ago. Either buy a new work bowl for my food processor or buy a new one. The new work bowl with shipping was more than I wanted to spend, and besides I had seen a much larger food processor at Williams Sonoma website, and it looked like it could turn out bread dough and it has multiple work bowls that nest inside each other. There was a month wait to get it (but I waited, and waited) and finally, I went to the store and picked it up.

It is amazing to me how a new appliance inspires me to bake. First I had to try out a Challah for Rosh Hashona. What was so great is that I have trouble kneading dough, it really hurts my fingers. This did all the kneading for me. The loaves were great! It has been a while since I did a bread other than one in the bread machine. And, for me that isn't quite the same as an oven baked bread, especially a Challah which I love to braid.

Sunday I was really tired, but wanted to bake again. I went to the store and saw a huge display of apples. So, instead of bread it was apple pie. Now, it has been years and years since I made my own crust. I have relied on the not so good Pillsbury unroll from the package crust. But, the food processor had a recipe, and just to be sure I went to www.foodnetwork.com and checked out Alton Brown's take on a pie crust. His version was almost identical, but what was great was that his video showed me exactly how to work the dough in the food processor, how to tell when ready to chill, and some good hints on rolling it out. I also like the fact he doesn't do anything fancy to the top of the crust. I will tell you that it was the best crust I have probably ever made in terms of texture, flakiness, and so forth. (I am eating a piece while writing this). He starts out by baking the pie on the floor of the oven (of course on a cookie sheet), and then movies it up into the lower part of the oven on a rack. This really browns the bottom crust. And the other tip was I have always used lemon juice in my apple pie. He used Lime Juice! And, it was so much better!

What fun to be inspired by something mechanical. My other inspiration this week was potato pancakes (with a small zucchini in them for flavor). They grate so nicely in the processor.

DHI Show Photos and Show Wrapup

2009-09-23T10:38:00.000-07:00

Nothing like traveling to make a person tired, and the best laid plans of updating my blog on Friday just don't work out. The second day of the show was similar to the first. Lots of presenters telling us how to run our companies better, what to do when the economy recovers, and way too many pie charts as to what distributors and manufacturers think of how things are being run in the industry.

We then returned to the trade show floor for more walking and talking. We took a little time out in-between events to shoot some photos around the hotel and convention center. I found out that the facility is about 4-5 years old.

The convention center was opulent with beautiful decorations.

One part of the hotel atrium was called Key West and featured this "scenery" complete with a fish restaurant. The food was very good, but over priced, even for a hotel.

What a welcoming site as you walk into the main part of the convention center.

The hotel atrium even had an area full of alligators!

Todd, from Karpen Steel, and myself at the Hollow Metal Manufacturer's Show Booth.

So, with my eternal optimism, I did sign up to exhibit at next year's show in Chicago.

Once the show ended, we took a cab ride over to Disney Downtown and ate dinner at Wolfgang Pucks (very good), walked and walked around, and then desert at Planet Hollywood. I was surprised to see that the Virgin Megastore is closed down. The whole area was very busy, and the restaurants were certainly busy, but the stores not as busy. We had a good trip home on Friday and in the end felt that the trip was worth making, but also knowing that we were correct in not exhibiting this year.

Food and Family

2009-09-19T15:48:00.000-07:00

Today was a family day. Various family members were in town for Rosh Hashona and we all had lunch together. This included my mom, two brothers and two sister-in-laws, a cousin, a nephew and his wife, and of course my dear husband. We were boisterous (so fortunately the restaurant wasn't too busy inside) but had a wonderful time together. Telling stories, talking about our current lives, checking up on the status of other family members and touching base. For some reason, even though the restaurant service was not up to par, I had a wonderful time. Sometimes being with a lot of family members can be stressful, but this was one of those times where I just took it for what it was.

I was still a little tired from my trip to Orlando (got in last night about 9:00 pm), so afterward I unwound a little (but did not unpack) and went for a swim in the pool to finish the unwinding process. I love to travel, but it is so exhausting. It was so nice to be in my own bed last night.

Supper tonight was another one put together from visiting a farmer's market. We had trout cakes (made by the trout people), turnips braised with carrots and biale's for our bread. I knew I wouldn't feel much like cooking but it was all delicious. Especially the fresh sliced tomatoes. I don't think I have ever cooked turnips before. Found a simple recipe on the internet and they were delicious. Will have to buy them again! Unfortunately I got to the market a little late as we had gone to an Art Show in Weaverville before I headed out to the market. So, my choices were not as great as some weeks, but still a nice selection. Now that I have discovered the Saturday Farmers Market I have expanded my horizons with different choices.

DHI Trade Show Orlando

2009-09-17T04:09:00.000-07:00

For the first time in many years, I decided not to have my company exhibit at the annual Door and Hardware trade show, even though it is near (in Orlando). The cost was just too great, and a survey of customers seemed like about a quarter of the typical crowd would be coming. But, I decided to attend to help staff a trade association booth, be a co-presenter on technical hollow metal programs, and attend some industry classes. And to take our customer service coordinator with me.

Was it a good decision?

First day here we had a committee meeting and made plans for technical presentations for the next day. The mood of most manufacturers that we met and talked to was somber. Too many people being laid off, not enough work, bringing out new products in hope of generating some interest. And everyone wondering if tomorrow would bring distributors to the show to see the new products, and to try to drum up some sales.

Good parts of today included flights arriving early into their destinations, pretty smooth flights, and a really nice dinner at a Japanese restaurant with a group of 6 people total. The hotel I am booked at was at one time really nice, but the guest rooms are showing some wear. The lobby and public places have been renovated and kept up. At one time this was probably a really nice resort. Now, it is just OK.

The convention center at Gaylord however is another story. Very opulent. A smaller version of the Opryland Hotel in Nashville.

First day of Show - Industry Marketplace

Our committee was pleasantly surprised at the attendance at our sessions. First session had only about 14 people, (too early), but then we went up to 22, 24 and finally 29 at the final session. Since some of the industry marketplaces had only 4-5 people at their sessions, then ours was a rousing success. I had really good 'face time' in front of distributors, and this alone made my visit here worth while. Especially since later on in the day, a number of the attendees stopped to thank me for the presentation, and the obvious work that went into it.

First day of Show - Forum for the Future

Let's say I am not into writing really depressing blogs. The economist was an excellent speaker, with humour and good stories, but in between those parts were graphs upon graphs upon graphs, and the trends were not cause for rejoicing. But we can also say that the food was good. The attendance was close to 1000 people by my estimates. Give us free food, and we will come!!

Trade Show - from the view of a "Non Exhibiting Manufacturer" *Brown Badge*

Not being an exhibitor means there is no "home plate" to return to after talking to people, no place where people know they can find you and so forth. That being said, not exhibiting has given me a lot more time to talk to the vendors that provide product to our company, and search out new products that might be of use to us.

There were not a lot of distributors on the show floor, but those that were there really wanted to talk, to learn and to get information. It made me sad that we didn't have a booth when I saw all of our competitors booth, but I still know that it was the right decision. Today, I will be signing up for a booth in Chicago - a great convention venue. My only question is whether I will get cold feet again next year and pull out. There are a lot of empty booth spaces on the show floor. Many manufacturers are missing in action. Will this keep distributors from returning next year?

More later and I should have a few pictures to post after I return to home base.

Dog Care While Traveling

2009-09-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love my dogs -- Panda and Athena. They were both rescue dogs and they have brought me a lot of smiles, especially when they are stealing toys from each other, or demanding to be pet, or just running around being crazy. But, the thing I don't like is figuring out dog care when we go on a trip. It makes spontaneity a lot harder (such as on Friday saying "lets go away for the weekend"). Through the years we have used a kennel (where you had to pay extra if you brought your own food, and extra for daily walks in the woods), and house sitters (one ended up having a baby nine months later), to bringing to a person who had cabins just for dogs, and they had cable TV, and each cabin area had its own fenced in yard. (But then she moved to TN). And she didn't charge extra for walks! So, due to circumstances our current house/dog sitter is no longer available and I try to figure this out all over again. Standard kennels just won't do for these wonderful rescue dogs. Athena, the older one, just gets too strung out. (Panda is shown in the picture).

So, today I visited a lady with a fenced in yard, and a dog friendly house, and the dogs get the run of the house and the yard (sounds like here). Her rates are reasonable, not too far away from the house, and she had a good recommendation. Well, my dogs had a blast in her yard and house, were OK with her dogs, and we ended up sitting and visiting together for longer than I thought. Now, I can breathe easier and know that at least for my next few family trips I have dog care figured out. I mean, it is like hiring a sitter, not just anyone will do. Yeah, one problem solved.

09-09-09

2009-09-10T16:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my day! Look at the numbers that my birthday fell on! I invited some friends to lunch that did not know each other, but had all known me for somewhere between 12 and 20 years. And Dana who knew them all also came. I started out by telling the story of how I met each one of them. It brought some laughs, and reminded us of good times quite a while ago. And most of all, my friends got a chance to make some new acquaintenances.

Work was fun in a different way. We are having a 09 special during September in celebration of my birthday. About a dozen or so customers remembered the e-mail and the reason for the celebration and sent faxes and e-mails, and even sang happy birthday into my voice mail. Plus, at break they had a surprise for me -- big platters of fresh fruit (because everyone knows I am eating healthier foods now!), and a helium balloon to decorate my desk.

We had a simple dinner at home. I bought tuna at the Weaverville Farmers Market, Dana made some salsa with mixed cherry tomatoes (yellow and red) and jalapeno, and onion, from the market to go with the tuna and I pan fried some Okra with an easy new recipe I've discovered. The meal was great and a good prelude to the real event of the evening. We went to an "educational" wine tasting at a local wine shop. It was a blast. You know they say you should never stop learning, so the Wine 101 class was perfect. We learned about something we have always really enjoyed -- good wines. The presenter was excellent, and we liked 2 out of six (or was it seven) of the wines enough to buy them.

Today I had lunch with a friend who couldn't come yesterday. And, she had me tell her the story of how I met each person! One of my presents to myself, is making time to stay connected to people.

All, in all, a great way to celebrate. Friends, Food and Wine!

Packing for Trips

2009-09-08T16:28:00.000-07:00

I love to travel. I hate to pack. I know have all my toiletries ready to go, so no worries there. Packing for family trips is fine. Figure number of day and pack accordingly. I know whether it is shorts, or jeans, throw in a jacket, and ready to go. But business trips are another story especially when the trip involves a convention.

There are classes (informal), trade show time (business), social hours (business casual), traveling, down time and if we are exhibiting clothes to set up and tear down the show booth. One time I figured I needed 3 changes of clothing to get through just one day. Yes, I know all the tricks. I have black, and dark grey pants, I know to layer, and so forth and so on. But, it is the actual decisions of what I will bring that cause the problem. San Antonio was supposed to be warm, but it was cold, and even 3 layers couldn't seem to warm us up. And, I want to look just right, I am representing my company. So, which of my logo shirts will I bring? And which events will be in clothes without the company logo?

You can tell when I've had trouble with decisions. My suitcase gets heavier. With the new weight rules, that has stopped some of my over packing. So, I pack, and I make a list by day and event as to what I am going to wear. And, I pack the list on top. It does help, but it doesn't alleviate the stress. Need jewelry, need dress up shoes, need my charger and i-pod and lap-top, and like Alex books to read. And, I made it to the library book sale this past weekend, and bought a lot of books for only $1 or $2 each. If they are only fair, I give them to flight attendants when I am done with them. Need my notebook full of reservations, and schedules, and event details.

Yet, somehow I manage to always make the plane on time, pull it together, and look good. And only occasionally have to buy something extra that was forgotten. This weekend I pack for a convention in Orlando. I don't leave until Sept 15th, but I am already trying to figure out my wardrobe. The good news is that I cut back on the number of days I'll be gone, and the number of events I am committed to attending. I know every day this week when I dress for work I'll think, hmmmmm do I need this for the trip? If so, I better not wear it today. So, that is what is top and foremost on my mind this week. As well as getting through 2 weeks worth of work in one week, so I leave my desk looking clean and organized and have assigned jobs to be done to everyone else.

And, lastly, I have to figure out how to order healthier smaller portions in restaurants. I am getting better at it, but it is tough! And, why do the restaurants think healthy has to be bland (but that is probably another post all together). Any on the road eating tips would certainly be appreciated!

My Grandfather's Blog

2009-09-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

My grandfather Robinson (shown in a picture from 1913) was what I now know to be a "blogger" with different technology. He had six children. So, to keep in touch, he wrote out his thoughts, and had his secretary type them into a letter with carbon copies - one for each of his children! When I was in college, my mother then mailed her copy of the letter to me to read. His letters were about his hikes, what different family members were doing, his work, and his life in Asheville, NC. Now, when I think back on these letters, I realize in essence he was blogging. Not just writing a diary for only himself to read (but there are volumes of his diaries that we still have), but his life to be shared to people that meant a lot to him. My only question in thinking back on this -- how was it decided who got the original, and who got the bottom carbon copy? Because, the bottom of 6 was always pretty light!

Oh why did I do this?

2009-09-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

I have been enjoying AAA: Alex's Adventures in Asia and Nancy K Sews blogs for the past year. So, I thought today, I would set up my own blog. Now, I am wondering why? There are so many decisions to make -- style was the easiest, and then there are multiple choices to make that I have no idea how to answer. So, I did the best I could, I'll write a bit and then see how it all looks.

I was thinking that next summer I would start a blog about the Weaverville Tailgate Market. How, I go, find what looks appealing to me at that moment, and then create a meal around it. One of my favorite farmers, Paul, is always interested each week in hearing what I have made from the farmers bounty. But, that is for the summer of 2010. So why now?

I guess it will be a way to put down my comments as I travel. Lots of trips coming up, Orlando for a convention, then New York City to see Broadway Shows, then Chicago for a meeting, then Orlando for a family vacation, and next summer, Bryce and Zion Parks, and then Las Vegas for a family vacation. And who knows what else will go in between as my business and personal travel plans unfold.