Walden Family Thanksgiving 2011 in Charleston, SC

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READ the sign!

I have never been one known for an ability to read out loud.

I have never been one to claim to have patience to read instructions.

And now I have to admit, as ridiculous as it makes me appear, I am inapt when reading simple, short sentences.

For three days I have been scavenging up quarters for coffee in our hotel lobby, the first day exclaiming to David that "they charge now for the coffee in the lobby (our last visit, two years ago, it was free)."

We have put in $2.50, a small amount I realize, it's not the monetary amount that is the point of this entry, into the hotel lobby coffee machine and this morning I take a step back to read the note on the front of the machine in it's entire statement.

"Hotel guests ask the hotel lobby attendant for $.50 for coffee."

All along, I could have been asking for the money for the coffee!!!

***

Thanksgiving for little reminders to take in a full message before proceeding with any action.

Living Is An Art

I have just happened upon a stunning brochure created to advertise local high-end shops and services for the elite area of Boca Raton, Florida.

Oh, the brochure. I say with a deep admiration breath while clutching my chest in display of affection. Stunning, thick, glossy paper. Photos of life that few can understand. Homes that are not just homes, but estates. Shops named beyond the casual, such as, 'Ice Cream Club.'

How I enjoyed the brochure for the texture, print, weight, and over all production - yes, I realize I am 'weird' to notice all of these aspects...however, this, I know, is a huge part of my being, I really enjoy and admire presentation and detail, especially in print.

What struck me at the core, the title on the cover, '...Where Living is an Art.'

Living is an Art. ... Really?. ... Really. ... Let me soak this in and live with affection for the way that living can be and should be an Art.

***

Thanksgiving for knowing that material things do not create the happiness that they portray and also for knowing that a life full of truth and life creates a life that is respected and admired more than pictures. Balance.

Where's Mom?!

Anticipating a possible melt down by the children, we arrived at the airport early to make our way through the TSA security check.

Without hesitation, the process went smoother than I can even believe, withe the children. Without a pout, a squirm, or a whimper, they removed their shoes and backpacks and through the metal detectors they walked, single file.

David was so surprised that he led the way and couldn't believe he heard no screaming behind him, that when he looked back to really assess the scene in his wake, he could hardly believe his eyes.

He looks back to make sure we were all accounted for and finds me pulled to the side and placed in the security enclosed check point.

Pulled to the side, the TSA personnel explains that I have been selected for a random check and that after a quick swab of my palms, I'll be ready to go.

She returns in less than a moment to let me know that I have NOT passed the screening! My palms have tested positive for explosive material tracing and that I will have to accompany her to a curtained, private area for a more thorough checking.

I don't know what to expect as she is placing rubber gloves on her hands and asking for assistance! However, I remain very calm KNOWING that I am not transporting nor have been handling any explosives and I just pray that I'm not one of the news stories where a completely innocent traveler gets pulled to the side and gets detained due to a complete misunderstanding.

We venture behind a closed curtain where the TSA gal proceeds to exteriorly, THANK GOD, pat me down from head to toe.

Of course, I know that I am NOT carrying any thing, so, within minutes, the check is complete and I am reunited with my belongings and family to continue on with our travel.

***

Thanksgiving for the security our government is providing to keep us safe post September 11 - the day of national terror placed on the United States.

Food...Filling or Feeling?!

I'm recognizing my addiction to food. The addiction runs deep and is linked a lot to boredom and lack of energy and will to move.

HOWEVER, this is CHANGING!

I am becoming more aware of the need to eat for FUEL and filling up the body for ENERGY in place of eating for something to do, feeling, and taste.

It's a beginning.

***
Thanksgiving for the ability to change - daily.

Quick and Tasteful Dinners

I'm all about easy and quick meals that are healthy and yummy. Here are a few I found picture-iffic and tasty.

Left over ground turkey spaghetti meat sauce. Add a can of white kidney beans, a can of chili beans; a few shakes of chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder; and chicken stock. Simmer in pot. YUMM!

Boil a bag of frozen cheese tortellini. In skillet warm EVOO with a bit of garlic p owder infused. Add to skillet a bag of frozen broccoli and half a bag of frozen, sliced onion/pepper mix. Saute skillet of veggies in oil for a few minutes then add a cup or two of chicken stock and a splash of Italian dressing. Once tortellini is boiled to perfection; drain and add to skillet. Mix and serve. Top with Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

***

Thanksgiving for frozen veggies! Especially ones that I didn't have to water and freeze; just purchase at the supermarket for $1 or so a bag! ;) ... Thanksgiving for blessed farmers and the trade I would like to know through osmosis!