An Apel a Day

Happy Birthday Isaak

2022-05-19T08:59:00.004-05:00

I know I've been a horrible slacker with blogging. Sorry!

Having a job where I actually create things everyday, I get into work.

Isaak, you turn 14 today! Woo hoo! You haven't even hit that gigantic growth spurt yet, and you're already taller than I am. I have a feeling you are going to be taller than Mica. We shall see.

Lots of good things have happened to you this year. You decided you're going to let punks roll off your back because you are better than that. You have great teachers this year, so your grades have been all A's. Some big projects are stressing you out at the end, so we'll see if your grades stay all A's. In the past you had some not so nice teachers, not all supportive teachers, and excuse my language – asshole kids that put a negative light in your life. It's wonderful things have turned around.

A few things with school: You got the Rotary Honor Roll, your team won Think Tank.

You got into a new high school called Buena Vista. I'm a bit stressed because it's kind of far, but there is busing. Knowing Omaha Public Schools, busing isn't always a guarantee. Of course Mica looses busing, with the new schools built. I really don't want him driving my new car. The schools are very far apart. Fingers crossed it all works out. I hope the bus gets you, and then I'll only need to worry about Mica. How cool will it be to go to a new school, with a beautiful outside and inside, and no upper classmen?! You are excited about your fresh start.

You started back up with one of things you love, piano lessons. When Covid happened they got shut down. Then your teacher got pregnant and didn't teach any longer. Her mom teaches, but she's really strict and not into creativity. We found someone walking distance. He loves to teach the notes, but also encourages creativity. They have recitals with other kids he teaches. You are motivated with that. Your instructor said you can come to practice on one of his three pianos as long as you text ahead of time. All we have room for is a keyboard. He has a story for every song that I person plays. I love storytellers. He's all about you writing songs too. Here's a song you wrote.

You still love to draw, get excited about small things like the bird's nest outside your window. Right now you want to be a phycologist.

I got you a few shirts. You're into artsy tees. You love being in the kitchen, so you got a sushi set. I'm looking forward to that.

Happy Birthday!

I hope things continue to push forward in a positive light.

Love,

Mom

#cleanup With #multisurfacecleaner TriNova

2022-04-23T14:42:00.002-05:00

TriNova Natural sent me two cleaner bottles with sprayers and a cleaning rag to review. So far I've used it to clean my whole kitchen, and a pre cleaning for my gecko Warhol's tank.

I like that the bottles came without the sprayers. It's so much easier on the company TirNova to package and send. No one uses all the cleaner at once, or possibly they aren't ready to use it at all when they've gotten it.

Crazy, but my last job made these sprayers for most places. They probably made these too.

Cleaning the Kitchen:

I forgot and didn't take photos of my before and after cleaning when I cleaned the kitchen last week. We cleaned so much! Some of it I used TriNova, and other parts I used vinegar and water. Both cleaners did a good job.

My family hates when I use vinegar though. They say it smells funny. TriNova had a much better smell to them. I can’t smell after an invasive nose surgery, so I'll take their word for it.

Cleaning Warhol's Tank:

I'm a bit scared to use many cleaners on the gecko’s tank. They are sensitive, and lick everything. I used TriNova to start with, then cleaned it with plain water twice after that. My gecko loves to step in his drinking water, then his calcium powder, and throws moss parties at night.

Before

During x 3 (Seriously Warhol! He had moss everywhere!)

After:

All Natural:

The cleaner is all natural, plant based. I'm careful about what I use to clean with. My geckos are sensitive, yet so am I. With having allergies and asthma I do not like to use toxic anything in my life.

Rag:

I love the rag that came with it! It picked up the moss and powders in Warhol's tank easily. It's soft, so won't scratch furniture. The rag and cleaner work on any surface, but I've only used it on formica, wood, shelf liner (Warhol's tank), and metal in the sink.

Where to Get it:

You can pick up TriNova Multi Surface Cleaner at Lowes. It's our preferred hardware type store to go.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/TriNova-TriNova-Natural-Multi-Surface-Cleaner-2PK-2-32-oz/5002904447

It costs $17.97.

What is something in your house that you need to clean?

Disclaimer: I got this product for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and are not written my the company.

WW Benson Shoe Repair {Linky}

2022-04-05T18:24:00.004-05:00

The 16 year old – Mica went out of the house with the family. He amused me when we passed this shop.

“Mom that place has two kinds of customers…

The WWII VET that is a traditionalist. They feel the need to go there because they only have one pair of shoes, and want to support businesses that do things the hard way. They tell the owner the same story every time they go in.

Their other type of clients are 25 year olds. They like retro things, are purest's, don’t like to fill the landfills with more crap us Americans buy, and know businesses like this will close down, so they go there.”

Ok then!

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WW: Dressed Up {Linky}

2022-03-29T13:54:00.000-05:00

Isaak had a workshop at school called Think Tank. A handful of students get to go from each middle school. In the past they mixed those students up to form groups. They get to name a business, come up with a business model and logo.

Isaak hasn't had much to do with the honors club (his school calls it GATE). He's not a reader, doesn't really like Quiz Bowl like Mica did. If his cards align, he's a great student, a strategic thinker, understands process, creative, and has a keen since of detail.

The staff member that's in charge of GATE came to Isaak before spring break to ask if this would be something he would want to do. Isaak jumped in with a big YES. After spring break Isaak went up to this same guy asking for the paper work. He said, "Are you sure you can handle this?" He acted like he didn't remember asking Isaak to be a part of Think Tank. Some people are so odd! I hate when teachers, councilors and so on lack faith in young people. Here is this kid that wants to be involved. Let him be.

Since he's artsy I got him a Keith Haring button down shirt at H&M. Doesn't he look handsome!?

WW: Rotary Honor Roll {Linky}

2022-03-15T19:22:00.003-05:00

Isaak has struggled for a few years. In 5th grade he had a horrible teacher, in 6th grade he started a middle school where he only knew one person, and in 7th grade the pandemic hit. When the pandemic hit he went from an A | B student to a D | F student. He went back to school and pulled his grades up to being a B student.

He was loosing his confidence. I’m not sure he’s totally gotten it back.

BUT now he’s an all A student.

He was nominated for the Rotary Honor Roll. 40 kids were picked by the teachers, He had to write a paper, teachers read all of them and voted for who they felt had the most leadership. Isaak was one they voted up. He was one of the 16 chosen. He’s up for scholarships.

He also got into his school of choice for high schools. A new school, a new slate.

Here he is with his Rotary Honor Roll Letter:

WW: Warhol {Linky}

2022-03-01T12:39:00.001-06:00

I am glad I got my gecko Warhol. He used to stand at his tank like he wanted to come out to play, then fall and winter happed. A lot of times geckos like to just chill in their tank, and eat less when it is colder. He comes out to hang out with us sometimes.

It's a good thing they are like a cat, and poop in the same spot in their tank. Otherwise my poor husband's head may have gotten a surprise.

Before anyone says, "Oh gross!" I can't have very many pets. I have allergies and asthma. When I was little my parents had to give up their short haired dogs because I kept getting sick. Geckos it is. They are cute, like to cuddle (sometimes), and each have their own personalities (we have two).

Do you have any pets?

WW: Accident | PSA | New Car

2022-02-22T10:48:00.006-06:00

A month ago I was in a car crash. I was driving my 13 year old Isaak to school. I was going the speed limit. Out of no where this car was driving all crazy like through a red light, when mine was very green. It was dark, airbags went off in my face. My car wouldn't do anything. The next thing I knew the car I hit just started driving away.

The crazy thing...he left behind his in transit sticker along with some glass. So I have a name, 3 witnesses that were on my side, but the cops can't do anything because it's not enough to get a search warrant. He of course went into hiding. I looked the guy up online and he has tons of videos of him drinking hard alcohol and smoking pot, while driving. Get this he's a proud lover of Jesus Christ though. He wears a cross around his neck like it means something to him.

We had taken our 16 year old car off accident insurance, so it was a loss. I actually was ready to buy a new car, but was waiting for the pandemic and shortages to come to a stop. Travis said it looked like I lost a baby or something when he came to get Isaak from the scene. It felt surreal sitting in a cop car in the middle of a busy intersection. I couldn't get out to take pictures, There was bars separating us like I was the one that did something wrong.

I was lucky I was wearing my seatbelt, and the Isaak was in the backseat. My chest hurt for weeks. Then it itched inside for a few more weeks. My knee was really bruised up.

I've tried to find the car that hit me, but the guy has like 4 addresses online. If I find it they can have a cop meet me, or do a search warrant. I wouldn't find him for me. He has no insurance. His car isn't even registered. It would be to get him off the streets.

I spent a few weeks just with my husband's car. I drove him to work, Isaak to school, and repeated that at the end of the day.

My husband finally said, "No more." I said, "How do we do this with the pandemic?" We went to Subaru, and bought this Crosstrek. It's a brand new 2021. I guess it wasn't bought because people didn't like the color. I was just glad it wasn't ultramarine blue. There's nothing wrong with the color, but my Civic was that color, Travis' Outback is that color, and he had a truck that color. I was just done with that color for us. Green it is.

It took a bit to get used to driving without putting a key in. I couldn't stand the engine shut off feature, so for now that's off. I felt odd driving after the accident for awhile. Isaak felt the same as a passenger. Switching insurance was a pain in the ass. I had to go to the DMV a few times because the one I used to go to isn't there anymore and the one I went to didn't have plates as a feature to get. DMV's are something! I'm glad I have a car that runs.

I Heart My New Shirt

2022-02-19T11:41:00.004-06:00

I love my new shirt!

Colors:

It comes in 5 colors.

Wine Red (what I chose)
Green (what I almost chose to wear on St Patty’s Day)
Black
Blue
Dark Grey and Light Grey (which are kind of like 2 more colors)

Sizes:

Small
Med
Large (what I got)
XL

I feel like it fits true to size. They do pride themselves on it being a tunic. I feel like it’s just a short. A tunic to me is a long shirt that can be paired with tights. This is regular shirt length. I’d only wear it with jeans or black pants. Never tights.

I do like how the sleeves fit me. I have ape-l arms. Sleeves tend to be too short. I want sleeves that fit me, or are meant to be 3 quarter sleeves.

Material:

96% Polyester
4% Spandex

It is super soft and skin-friendly fabric. It’s stretchy. I like that it’s not see through. No one needs to see my bra. It’s comfortable to wear.

Care:

I did see one place to wash in cold, and hang dry and another place to hand wash only. Consistency in their description would be helpful. I will say the I’m not about to hand wash anything right now in my life.

You can pick up this shirt on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B09LYHXP7D/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1&th=1

I’d get this shirt again. It’s more sporty than most of my things. That’s maybe a good thing.

Have you gotten any new shirts lately?

Disclaimer: I got this product to review, with a discount. All opinions are my own.

Stay Healthy #immune_support_supplement #immune_supplement #immune_booster

2022-02-12T15:52:00.001-06:00

I hope all is well. Our family is good. I actually like the job where I work. Sure there are hiccups. But they are normal hiccups, not toxic ones. I felt like when the pandemic happened there was only toxic leadership jobs at first. Seriously!

Isaak is in a better place in school than he ever has been. Straight A’s, nominated for The Rotary Honor Roll, his science fair project he did all on his own got sent to the district, and he mentor other kids! Let’s just hope he gets into the high school he wants to go to!

Mica is a working boy. He took the pre-ACTs and got a 27! He is in mostly honors courses. He had a group in one class that did nothing. He talked to his teacher, and did his part.

Travis got a raise. He has a studio now, so it’s good to have some stuff out of the house.

With these accomplishments I want to stay in a good place!

It’s important to boost up your and my immunity during this pandemic and spring allergy season. So far-nock on wood we’ve only had two colds in the fall. Covid has managed to skip our house (that we know of) so far. I hope we don’t get it. We’re boosted, mask up, and don’t go very many places.

Sickness can be out of one’s control. We take daily vitamins, try to eat right, and go on a lot of walks.

Energy Immune Boost Formula has 10 boosters in it. Vitamin C, B6, E, zinc, elderberry, garlic, echinacea, glucosamine, probiotic, turmeric, ginger and more!

Per usual I wish the bottle was filled to the rim to not waste so much packaging. I would even pay more if it was fuller.

It does have a lot of good ingredients packed in each pill. A lot of the ingredients I take in the form of food. I have my family take this instead of their daily vitamin.

Do you take vitamins, or do you feel like they are a waste of money?

Stay well, stay happy!

You can get this product on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09NZRNV69

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.I got this product as a discount in exchange for an honest review.

Holiday Card

2021-12-23T12:36:00.003-06:00

I didn't send cards to too many people this year. I did one though. It's a bit different. I capitalized on their likes: Isaak art and Mica listening to music.

Did you send out cards this year?

Got That Holiday Feelin'?

2021-12-23T12:32:00.006-06:00

The last few years have been difficult holiday wise.

We used to get together with my aunts, uncles, cousins, cousin's kids, siblings, grandparents, and so on. It's kind of come to an end sort of. Some of my family is careful, while some is not. When you have one relative that has 2 kids that have compromised immune systems, non careful families do not sit well with them. I now have a job that works with individuals that have compromised immune systems, so we talk daily in my team about restrictions. Yes, my sister chose to have five kids when she knew she had the chance of having Trisomy 18 individuals; I care about them so I'm more of an advocate for them than not.

Plans:

We used to have Christmas Eve at my parent's house. Packed in like sardines to eat a nice meal of soups, cheeses, crackers, dips, and shrimp, open gifts, and eat cookies. Now we're having a quiet evening to ourselves, where we're making New Orlean's meal and eating junk. The boys have never had jambalaya and that kind of food.

We used to have Christmas Day with the cousins, aunts... But now we're having a get together at my sisters, where we play games with masks on and eat snacks (with distancing).

We haven't decided when we're opening our own presents. I suggested 1/2 on Christmas Eve and the other 1/2 Christmas Day.

Mica didn't tell me what he wanted, and Isaak pretty much picked out all his gifts. Teenagers sure do change things.

Gone are these days, where Mica rattles stuff off that he wants:

I got Mica a foot spa. He always gets ingrown toenails, and has to do food soaks. Why not enjoy those soaks a bit more? LOL I got him a book about deep thinking about life and another one on world religions. he also got clothes.

Isaak picked out some things he wanted at World Market. A mini tool kit. I snagged that when he wasn't looking, so something would be a surprise. He's big into pineapples, last year it was lemons and limes. I got a pop fidget pineapple and pineapple shirt. He got mostly things for his room: Pillow, a lamp...

Jobs:

Mica got a job at Freddy's. It's walking distance. I am sort of bummed because when we went their food area was closed because of covid. They were one of the last places to open up. I was hoping it was still closed. Oh well. He gets paid a lot for just starting out. $11.50! Travis said, "WOW I need a raise!"

Mosaic is still going well for me. Only two struggles:

1. They throw vacay, sick and time-off all in one pot. So I only have 6 hours of PTO. I feel like I have to work on these holidays. It amounts to 3 weeks off, but is annoying right now. Especially when I started. If I started in August I'd have some PTO built up. Nope! I started right before Thanksgiving. It will get better. They are so willing to work with me on picking up Isaak from school...stuff like that.

2. The other struggle is I got a project no one wanted. I thought I had a great idea, but nope it's sitting on neutral and not in drive. It's for a medical supplier. Their stuff is really dated.

What they had Yuck!:

They want a fresh look. I did a lady in a wheel chair by the trees. Headline, "Go Places Do Things". My supervisor doesn't think it fits our market enough. They sell stuff to people that work for Mosaic Homes. DSP help their clients buy the stuff like wheel chairs, lifts, hospital beds, adult diapers and so on. I thought the catcher image could go on the front, and the noise (type) could go on the back. I'm not married to the type. I thought each background could fit with the location they serve. This is Colorado. They deliver right to the home, so that's something. I thought about maybe having an older person at the door with their product. But I want it to look pleasing, and have a story to it. Help! LOL

I don't disagree with my supervisor, but I also don't know what to do. I spent all day cutting out medical supplies in Photoshop knowing I'd use some. But now what...I'm stuck!

It's a Wonderful Life @RoseTheaterCo Review

2021-12-17T08:00:00.002-06:00

It was really great to visit The Rose Theater again! It's been awhile, since we've gone there. Too long! Their shows are geared towards kids, and my boys are 13 and 16. BUT their latest show is wonderful for my boy's ages.

We all enjoyed the show It's a Wonderful Life. It's their first show that they had at The Rose Theater in 1995.

Overall Thoughts:

Travis said he felt like he could relate to the dad in the play. He seriously can be a Scrooge during this time of year. All holiday things fall in my lap. Santa Claus in our house is not a guy. It's a girl all the way. LOL

Isaak just liked being there. He misses going places, and doing things. It kept his attention all the way through.

Mica liked that it wasn't a musical. They typically do have mostly musicals at The Rose Theater. A play is great to go to as well. he now gets all the hidden humor that only adults catch.

I liked that it was less draggy than the movie. The movie just kind of goes on and on. The play didn't seem to do that. It was entertaining throughout. I did feel a bit sad because I thought about how kids missed so much with live performances that places like The Rose Theater offers.

Safety First:

I have to be honest, we really don't go very many places, since covid became a thing. I'm vaccinate and boosted, I still wear a mask, and I still feel like other people do not care; they either get it or don't. I have to really want to go somewhere to venture out to do things. At this show masks were required. Overall people were respectful of that. The actors didn't wear masks while they were performing. They had less people in the venue to help stop the spread as well. It was also available for online streaming.

About:

Meet George Bailey, whose guardian angel has to descend on Christmas Eve to save him from despair and to remind him that his has been, after all, a wonderful life. George always wanted to get out of the town he lived in, but one thing lead to another and he was stuck. It's about George realizing that his town and life were not as bad as he thought. Featuring live music from the era and a virtuosic cast playing multiple roles, this production is the perfect homage to the power of community.

The Set

The set was really pretty with things from the town and decked out with Christmas stuff. I liked seeing old things like the phone, and radio.

Show Dates:

The show is at The Rose Theater in Omaha, Nebraska from December 5-20, 2021. There are online shows.

It's 75 minutes.

It is for all ages.

Cast and Crew:

Actor 1 (Clarence) – Wayne Hudson II

Actor 2 (Joseph) – Stella Clark-Kaczmarek

Actor 3 (George Bailey) – Marcel Daly

Actor 4 (Peter/Mary) – Delaney Jackson

Actor 5 (Billy/Harry) – Zhomontee Watson

Actor 6 (Potter/Burt/Others) – Matthew Olsen

Actor 7 (Pete/Sam/Others) – Natalie Hanson

Actor 8 (Violet/Erin/others) – Carina Dumarce

Actor 9 (Janie/others) – Maddie Smith

Actor 10 (Zuzu/others) – Anina Frey

Actor 11 (Understudy 3 & 6) – Kevin Ehrhart

Actor 12 (Understudy 4, 5, 7, 8) – Caulene Hudson-Pace

Actor 13 (Understudy 1, 2, 9, 10) – Grace Garrigan

Artistic/Production Credits Director – Sarah Brown

Assistant Director – LaDareon ‘LD’ Copeland

Music Director – Jerry Brabec

Choreographer – Sue Gillespie Booton

Stage Manager – Lisa Krabbenhoft

Scenic Designer – Lindsey Purvis Lighting Designer – Matt Benes

Sound Designer/Engineer – Christy Hernandez

Costume Designer – Sherri Geerdes

Hair & Makeup Designer – Zach Kloppenborg

Director of Production – Erin M. Solemsaas

Technical Director – Hunter Andrews Props Mistress – Devon Denn-Young

Scenic Charge Artist – Savannah Savick Master Carpenter – Jackson Curtright Stitchers – Sherri Geerdes, Zach Kloppenborg, Audio Helkuik

Contact The Rose Box Office:

402.345.4849 for more information

Tickets for play are $20 Main Floor

Members of The Rose receive discounted tickets to the production

Disclaimer: I received tickets from The Rose Theater to see It's a Wonderful Life. I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Farm Days

2021-11-11T11:07:00.008-06:00

This last weekend we took the 3 hour trip to one of Travis' old coworker's family farm. He was begging for us to join him. It was good to get away, for a bit.

Is it mandatory for all farms to have 1 red barn? I'm not complaining, I love the color red!

The farm didn’t have animals, but they did have a lot of old things to look at, history, and squash to pick.

If you lived on a farm what animals would you wish you could have? I'd love horses, goats, chickens, alpacas, a few farm cats, and a few farm dogs. Mrs Allergy sufferer can have animals if they are outside. Right?

I did ask Tom, our friend if he had his wife and son hidden in his trunk. I was bummed that they didn’t come along. His wife is from Russia. Since she wasn’t there to define herself I made jokes about how he’s really married to a spy. I’ve watched too many episodes of The Americans. We made Tom watch the first episode during breakfast. Not typically a show one would watch with children, but hey it's given us more reasons to talk about sex more openly. Really Tom's wife was back home with their dog and their son is only 11. He had a friend thing to do.

I guess these go unused on their farm:

I think this is my favorite shot:

It was in Iowa, and one thing is for sure, all farms in Nebraska and Iowa are usually full of corn.

What made this farm special is that it was owned by the same family, for many generations, they had relatives that owned areas all around it, and that it was right by the lake. What water hobbies would you take up if you lived there? I'd like to fish, and go paddle boating.

They rent out their land for other farmers to grow things. At this time pumpkins and other squashes were there. Tom said after Halloween they sit there and rot. We could take what we wanted. I took too much. Fully intending on canning pumpkin puree, but I found out that it's not a good idea to do that. Ya learn something new everyday. Reason? Every squash has a different water content. Pumpkin puree in the store has all the water content removed practically. It's best to cook, puree, and put it in ice cube trays to freeze.

Tom drove us around to show us all his family's property, and let Travis take Mica and Isaak down to see a special spot I never did see. Mica's driving. I'd like to say he learned how to drive a stick shift, but I don't think he drove it long enough to learn the standard H.

Isaak's big about wearing these coveralls. Funny because he hated them when I bought him a one when he was about the age of 5. He thinks they are artsy. Kids say he looks like Michael Meyers or a farmer. I think he looks like one in the Blue Man Group (without the make-up), or an auto mechanic.

Travis with Mica. They took one of me, but I look so out of it and I'm not posting it.

We found a few of these caterpillars. I heard they mean either we have a long winter ahead, or a short one. I don't know that I believe such tales, but if you do we found them.

We got to stay in their old farm house. Lots of cool things, but I like the door handles the most.

Have you been to a farm lately?

Job to Job

2021-11-10T14:35:00.003-06:00

I know it's been forever, since I posted. Sorry! I've been stressed, tired, and busy.

I started yet another job, and stopped that job. I'd laugh if it wasn't sad.

It went like this: I was let go of my job as a design instructor for nearly 20 years because the school was going to close their doors, when Covid started up - May 2020.

I got a job at Fresh Thyme as a front end supervisor because unemployment thought I'd go back to teaching in the fall, so they weren't going to cover me, and I had to get something fast! Right as I was getting good at what I did there I found out they were closing their doors in October of 2020.

Marketing and design jobs still were not opening up, so I got a job at Williams Sonoma as a key manager and merchandiser.

I started one class, one night a week at Midland College.

All along I had been applying for design and marketing jobs, so AIM a tech non profit fell into my lap. I loved the work I did there, but the turn over is high, and there are a lot of bosses that can't form final decisions. I wanted their look to be as powerful as their mission. They loved my work, but didn't want to jump outside that box. I quit knowing that the HR lady that had been there for years was leaving, and they weren't getting a replacement. I was worried I wouldn't get a pay check.

I kept doing some freelance with AIM, but the person that gave it to me gave me too much along with my full time job, and my one class. Bosses kept changing things, so I stopped doing freelance for them.

I started working for Schemmer an engineering and architecture firm. My boss knew my lack of experience in that field. He kind of just went over folders, but didn't go over proposals, which I would have to work on. I found out what I don't like doing there.

I got a job at RD Industries as a marketing coordinator | designer. They didn't know my password to my computer, wanted me to have a phone, but didn't know how to get into that, didn't know usernames or passwords to social media accounts, and had two Adobe Creative accounts, but only one me. My training existed of: Files you need are on SharePoint. I had never used SharePoint, but figured that out. All the files were flattened, so I couldn't use any of them. My supervisor kept signing off on projects. Then a few days later I'd have to redo the same project. It was nerve racking. He had me do 40 sales sheets, and found out the patent numbers were wrong that he gave me on nearly all of them. They had the role as needing someone that's highly creative, but the job wasn't all that creative. I enjoyed some of it. I really think as much as the owner is picky about their branding (as she should be), she should have had a few meetings with me to talk about it.

I handed in my notice because I got a job at Mosaic as a graphic designer. My supervisor at RD Industries said I could stay on as a consultant. Once the owner found out I was leaving she told me to leave. No going back to my desk, no goodbyes, and no backing up my files. I think they thought I'd mess with the files. I for certain didn't want to make who comes in after me - their life difficult. I'm not that kind of person.

Mosaic is a non profit that helps individuals that have special needs transition into group homes. The position is new. I applied there three times over the pandemic. Third time is a charm. The role is much more me. I like design over marketing.

Medical anything must have been on my radar because I also applied to Children's Hospital as a designer, and Clarkson College as a brand | graphic designer. I would have been excited with those places as well. My family has 10 people in the medical field. I'd like to merge design with that.

Here I am, 2 1/2 weeks without pay. I would have called Mosaic to see if I could have started early, but the computer they ordered for me hadn't come in yet, and I made a dentist appointment for the boys in between jobs.

I still am teaching one class for Midland. That's almost up. I'm not going back. They just have very little organization. I taught a Design and Illustration course, yet they've had no design, illustration, typography... at all. I have students that didn't even have Adobe. Midland is not a design college, and the students take those classes because they think they will be easy. I'm just more than done with extras in my life.

Isaak happened to bring me a gift of a head cold between Schemmer and RD Industries, and now again between RD Industries and Mosaic.

Hey each job has been a step up in pay, I'm here, not sick with covid, so I have a lot to be thankful for.

Warhol Went on a Trip

2021-10-13T09:59:00.003-05:00

I play with our gecko Warhol almost every evening. He started doing this thing where he comes to the door if he sees me. He's like a dog that wants to be played with.

If I open the door, he's right there.

Cute: Yes, but I messed up and left his front doors open on his tank.

I fell asleep, and woke up to Isaak freaking out. "Mom! What did you do? Warhol's tank is open, and I can't find him anywhere! Where is he?"

I was half out of it.

Mica was looking all over the living room for him. Isaak was looking in the kitchen.

Mica said, "Isaak why in the heck are you looking in there. He couldn't of gone too far!"

Isaak thank goodness found him. He was under Mica's chair in the kitchen. My little gecko wanted to travel. Who can blame him? So do I.

I'm so glad he was found!

Sunny's tank has been left open as well, but he has a top tank. Leopard geckos climb, but not up on the glass. Sunny couldn't get up to the top of his tank even if he wanted to.

Have you ever lost a pet? Did you find him or her?

Have You Ever Felt Judged for What You Felt Was Right?

2021-10-11T08:59:00.002-05:00

A place I was at on Friday - I made a comment about a guy that was whistling. I said happily, "I always wish I could whistle like you can. I tried so much when I was little, and I just never could put together a tune." His response, "Maybe if you take that mask off you could." One person nearby started laughing and said, "That was good!"

Here's the thing...they don't know me. I have two relatives that have compromised immune systems from Trisomy 18, I have parts of my nose that is missing from a nose surgery, asthma, allergies, a close friend that just passed away from Covid leaving a 14 and 17 year old behind, and many family members that were or in some cases are nurses that stand with science. I'm wearing that mask for others really more than myself.

I'm not a Karen that says things like, "You know you really should wear a mask." I just walk around with mine on. I know I can be a carrier no matter what. If my kids have to wear a mask to school, Travis has to wear a mask at the dental lab he works at, I feel that I should do the right thing and wear one too.

So far I haven't had to get a Covid test at all. I hope to stay that way, for as long as I can.

I can't shake this feeling that I'm being judged for wearing a mask. Was that comment, or the giggles after necessary? Am I just being too sensitive? To me jokes can be funny, but that didn't humor me. It made me feel bad, for doing what I feel is right all weekend long.

I found this campaign. I thought it was pretty good concept wise. Even if you aren't a masker. It still has a great idea that's taken in to more than one piece in the campaign. The client is Mucinex.

Have You Started Holiday Shopping?

2021-10-10T11:44:00.000-05:00

On the news I heard that one should start their holiday shopping now. Why? Because there is going to be a lot of shortages this year. I typically shop year round anyhow.

I found the perfect stocking stuffer for one of my teen boys! It’s a nail manicure set. I think it’s going to Mica because he takes out preferred nail set all the time. He gets ingrown toe nails a lot. So…time for his own. Plus Isaak got a gold one a few years back.

It comes with 16 nail tools. I love that it folds up to make it travel size. We’re not going anywhere now, but will in the future.

There’s also pockets on the inside to store things like q-tips, cotton balls, or a cleaning cloth comes to mind.

It’s also great that some of the sharp tools have plastic covers on them. I’m all about safety, when it comes to Mica. He’s a big kid, that’s awkward. Ha!

Where to get this set:

You can pick up this set on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08SM1FTYC. It is $13.99. Right now it’s marked to have one day shipping.

What kind of things do you typically purchase for stocking stuffers?

Disclaimer: I got this product for free or a discounted price in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Pandemic Life Be Like...

2021-10-06T21:09:00.001-05:00

Travis said the pandemic life hit me harder than anyone he knows. I think he's probably wrong. There's people that hide that they've had covid, or had people they know that have passed away in their life because of covid. For some reason it's like a secret illness. People don't want to confess that they've had it because that may show their thoughts on not getting the vaccine. It's so odd. I can't even process how separated we all are.

Travis is right that there's been frustrations for me with jobs, starting menopause, our car's check engine light went off right when covid started up and we can't get the light off. I hardly blog because don't go anywhere, and now I'm at a job where I'm on the computer all day. I really don't want to be on all the more.

I've started and stopped so many jobs it's crazy. BUT my older sister said that I just need to land that one where I feel a part of the team.

This is about how I feel about the pandemic:

We had a friend we've known for 20 years pass away last week. His wife said he had pneumonia to everyone online. It was covid. He was in the hospital for months. He got put on an ECMO machine to recycle his blood. In the end there were lacerations all over his lungs, and they just had to say goodbye. He left behind a wife, a 14 year old and a 17 year old. His wife is still against getting vaccinated, and masking up. All I can think of is those poor boys that didn't get a chance to make a decision about any of it. Now they won't have a dad. I know their family isn't alone. There are many like theirs. It's sad. I wish I could magically bring him back for his kids.

An illness apparently brought out secrecy, people feeling that their rights are being taken away, and a whole lot of "I do my own research." I see our freedom, and with that freedom comes a cost. The cost of lives lost.

Jacket for Mica

2021-09-26T10:34:00.003-05:00

On Thursday Mica pleaded before school that he NEEDED a new jacket.

On Saturday I said we had to go out to get a jacket. All the sudden he didn’t think he NEEDED one. He was adamant that he wasn’t going out. It turned into me saying, “You told me a few days ago that you NEEDED a jacket. We’re going to get a jacket.”

So off we went, with a huffing and puffing teen in the car.

The difficult thing with Mica is that he has a long torso. It’s impossible to find a jacket to be long enough for him.

We went to Old Navy, H&M, and about 5 more stores. Finally he landed in a jacket on a jacket that still isn’t quite long enough.

Then I got to listen to Travis about how Mica should just use one of his jackets. He said, “Did you have him try on an XL, so it would go down longer?” I said, “It is an XL. An XXL wouldn’t be any longer. Just wider.”

Sometimes it would be nice to have just one other girl in the house. I’m not a shopper, but I don’t like to argue all the time about getting things.

New Shirt for Mica #review

2021-09-19T20:40:00.001-05:00

Taking photos of a 16 year old is crazy. He wouldn’t stand still, and kept making faces. When is point out for him just to relax he’d hunch down. These are the best shots I could get of silly Mica man in his new shirts.

The 6 Colors They Offer the Shirt in:

Black | Dark Grey | Light Grey

Blue | Fluorescent Yellow| White

Mica got blue. I kind of wish when clothing goes up for review companies would list the colors in the description. We kept missing each other in emails. Out of those colors offered I would have gone with either grey. I like blue, but more of a bright true blue or navy.

The 4 Sizes the Shirt Comes in:

Small | Medium | Large | Extra Large

Mica got a large. He fits in most larges, but the arms are sometimes too short. I kind of wish sleeves were longer. My Dad and I have this problem as well. We could always have an 1” added to our sleeves.

Do you have long arms?

The shirt washed up well. No wrinkles. Mica loved it for the outdoors. The fabric is meant to keep you cool, and it works. We put it to the test. He chopped down a bush.

Where to get it:

This shirt can be found on Amazon, for $16.99 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08H894RZV

They also have a 10% off coupon right now. A great deal for a cooling shirt!

Do you ever get any clothes from Amazon?

Disclaimer: I got this product for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Cuddle Up With This Blanket #review

2021-09-12T20:49:00.004-05:00

Isaak gave me something not so wonderful, a head cold. It came on so fast. One day I was sneezing up a storm, then that night my head started killing. Isaak was like that a week prior, and I blamed allergies. I’m at the end stage of it now. With any cold it’s important to get more rest and drink a lot. Really I haven’t taken the time to do either. Travis had his huge art show this weekend. It wasn’t until today I laid around.

I’ve been cuddling up with this soft fleece star blanket I got for Mica’s room. It’s so soft and cozy.

It will be perfect for Mica’s room. He loves space and galaxy themed things. The only downfall that I can think of with the blanket is that one side is white. I’d love to have stars on both sides.

The blanket washed up nice. I always worry about materials loosing their soft feeling after being in the wash.

It’s a great size:

50”x60”

Cost:

$22.99 with a clip coupon for an extra 10%.

You can pick up this blanket and another design they have here:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08XMGB85N

Have you had allergies or a cold, since school started?

I’m just glad it’s a cold I have, and not Covid.

Disclaimer: I got this product to review in exchange for an honest opinion post.

Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe + a Bowl Review

2021-09-05T20:09:00.002-05:00

It’s been crazy at the Apel house!

I have been working 40+ hours at work at Schemmer, did freelance for my last job AIM, and started teaching my Midland class this week. I was loving the work I was doing for AIM, then too many cooks in the kitchen happened. They wanted me to change things. I had to change a whole campaign. When my supervisor at Midland hit me up for 2 classes in the spring I was like - Not even going to go there yet. I told her I understood if they pick up another teacher. Now she’s asking when I’ll know if or when I can. I just don’t respond because I felt like I already did. It’s too soon for spring. I’ve flat out felt like I’ve done too many things, and none of it am I all that excited about. I just really want a work home. A place I can get excited about daily. I want to create more. I really do believe such a place exists.

Travis has been swamped at the dental lab he works at! They started a new schedule. Long days, but off on Fridays. Well he’s pretty much always had Mondays and Fridays off. He jumped on board this schedule to get more vacation time. He’s the only one that knows how to use their 3D printer well, and has had to take work home to get jobs ready to print for the next day. He has a huge 1 man art show coming up. Every night he’s been working until midnight.

There are some nights where I hardly sleep, and other nights where I sleep all the time. I take over dinners and lunch prep.

I made Chicken Florentine Soup last night. It’s super easy!

Recipe + Instructions. Just add in the order stated.

-2 tablespoons of butter

-3 diced garlic cloves

-1 diced onion

-2 diced carrots

-2 teaspoons Italian seasonings

-4 cups of chicken broth

-1 cup heavy whipping cream

-1 pound cooked, shredded chicken

-10 ounces of chopped spinach

-1 can of artichoke hearts - drained

-Salt and pepper to taste

It’s so good!

The bowls I served it in are 8.7”x1.7”. They are perfect for salads. We have salads often.

It’s a set of 6 that’s dishwasher safe, microwave safe, oven safe and freezer safe.

All for $27.99.

Where to get the bowls: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093WDSR25

I think my only criticism is that I wish they would have had more colors and patterns to choice from. I like them otherwise.

Disclaimer: I got this product for a discount to help with thins review. All opinions s are my own.

Colorful Resin

2021-08-29T19:43:00.001-05:00

My husband has a birthday tomorrow. A great gift for any artist is art supplies. I know, not the typical gift for a guy. My dad always liked garden stuff for his birthday. That too isn’t typical.

Travis has been working with nature, and recently made a sculpture with pieces of charcoal in bedded in resin.

I know he will love to add translucent colors to his art.

It could also be used to make jewelry, coasters, and other small things.

I am really happy to gift him this set of translucent colors to add to resin.

This set comes with 28 bottles, 24 colors. They put more bottles of white and black in the set. I’m assuming because those values get used the most.

Lots of colors to choose from!

A few browns. One is like burnt umber, while the other is more like burnt sienna.

5 in the red family. I do think they will all be fairly pink because they are translucent.

A few purples.

Four different greens. One is a blue-green.

Three yellows and two oranges.

Four blues.

I know liquids are easier to blend than powdered pigment is.

They all fit well in the box.

I could see that if one comes out because it gets used up, that they no longer fit all snug. It would be great if they had crossing cardboard pieces to help hold them up. I just thought about this because they are liquid, and could leak if a lid isn’t screwed on tightly. I've had that happen with other art supplies.

Cost is reasonable.

This set is $25.99, but on sale for $18.59 + a 5% clip coupon. That is for 28x10 ml. If I went up a to 28x30 ml the cost would go up to $39.99, but they do have a clip $3.00 coupon.

You Can Get the Set at Amazon Today: https://www.amazon.com/Translucent-Colorant-Included-Transparent-Coloring/dp/B08TBQTJRX/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=resin%2Bcolor%2Bpigment&qid=1630283570&sr=8-1&th=1. That means free shipping if you are a Prime member.

If you got into art, what art supply would you want to buy?

Random Tid Bits

2021-08-22T17:42:00.002-05:00

1. Isaak has been talking about his friend David, since last year. He’s the one that stood up for him with the bullies in gym. We’ve had him over a few times.

His parents work a few retail jobs, so I told Isaak we can do all the driving. I know what it’s like working retail. Schedules are all over the place!

The boy couldn’t be a better friend. The song They Might Be Giants songs over the phone. He has empathy for others, is always thankful, and a good, not picky eater. I don’t know why, but picky eaters annoy me.

I just hope he doesn’t move. They are from California, and move quite often. I would blame them for moving, but please stay for Isaak. 😂

2. My niece Margaret turned 1. We got together outside + still wore masks. Kind of extreme when all the adults are vaccinated, but with 2 kids in the family that have trisomy 18, one has to be oh so careful. Good news: Those old enough yo get the vaccine, that have trisomy 18 have done well with it. If the open it up to kids under 12, Emerson and Margaret will get theirs.

3. We keep trying to convince Mica to ask a friend to come over. He’s only friends with some girls, and thinks it will be odd to ask them over. I get it.

4. Mica’s out driving with Travis. Somehow I’m not the one to teach him. I guess I’m ok with that. Less stress.

5. We’ve been having bean popping nights. Pop them out of their pods that is. Travis grew a butt load of beans. I hardly use them, but he’ll make soups, refried beans and more.

I thought Warhol matched the beans to a T. No worries, the beans get washed.

He also grew green corn. He’ll make tortilla shells out of them. Nom nom! What did you grow? Anything?

Dear Mica,

2021-08-10T19:56:00.000-05:00

You turned 16 today. 16 years ago I I had a c-section because I was low on fluid, you were breech and refused to turn.

About a week later we bought a car that would in fact fit a car seat. The 2 door Subaru I had wasn’t going to cut it. The Pilot is long since gone, but we still have our Civic today. It’s on its last leg, but cars are expensive with the pandemic. On Friday you’re getting your drivers permit a year late. Last year DMVs were closed.

You’re excited to go in to high school. Most of the previous year you were remote. You are not excited to wear a mask, and have others wearing masks. You just want to see people’s faces, but you know it’s important to stop the spreadYou’re more open to try new things this year in school. Tennis was going to be a sport you wanted to play. After learning it would never be at school, and there was no late bus we said, “No.”

Last year we struggled with your crooked back. The specialist said your growth plates are close together, as long as you’re not in pain you’re fine.

You’re taking your first college course this summer, Philosophy. Our conversations have been interesting.

Birthday gift: A new phone. Gifts get more expensive as you age.

I haven’t taken you out for photos, but here you are getting your phone, and at Olive Garden for your birthday meal.

Creepy face just to mess with me.