Dina Marie and her Creativity Mind

Blog Switch

2009-01-31T00:38:00.000-08:00

I somehow decided to use a blog with Wordpress. Of course I miss Wordpress's Blog Stats and I like their functions. So, if anybody is interested into reading my personal blog, it's Deaf Creativity Mind.

Valentine's Day: Pfft

2009-01-24T13:59:00.000-08:00

I went shopping at Target last Saturday. It was a good mental break for me since I am always on go daily at home and out doing errands. Of course I enjoy going shopping when I am not stressed out. I bought three different packs of socks, which I needed really bad. I also bought a few items.

While I was browsing in the books and DVDs section, I saw a shelf that displayed a few books, which focuses on Valentine's Day. Actually I personally dislike Valentine's Day. I think it is corny. I guess that children enjoy exchanging cute Valentine's Day cards at school.

Anyway, I somehow noticed a cute book displayed on the shelf, entitled The Story of Valentine's Day written by Nancy J. Skarmeas. I thought that it was cute book. It had a brief story about how Valentine's Day started. I thought that it is a simple gift from me to my 4 years old son. Perhaps he will learn something from this book. I am saving to give this gift to him on Valentine's Day.

Beginning of 2009: My Frustrations

2009-01-22T18:31:00.000-08:00

Last week was very tough and emotional week for me. I could not believe that it happened to me. I was going through grieving process due to personal reason. I did not have enough sleep all week and kept on pondering deeply. It really worn me out! I had difficult time to focus on what I need to finish something around in the house and do some errands. While I was going through difficult time, it was helpful to me that I get to talk with a few close friends and my cousin. Still I was kind of losing my attention span.

As for this week, I am back to normal and be able to accomplish of what I need to do in errands and around in the house. It helps to be aware that Heavenly Father knows what my desires are. And he will be able to give it to me in his own time. I also deserve the best in my life.

In addition to my frustration this year, is that I haven't be able to watch any TV shows and movies on Channel ABC. It had been almost over a month! The reason why I am not able to watch any shows is because Dish Network is having a contract disagreement with ABC/KOMO. Of course, KOMO wants an increase in cost for viewers like me to pay to watch that channel. So, Dish Network went ahead and cut that channel off. So, I hope that they get to agree in good terms real soon, so that way I can get to watch my favorite TV shows such as Desperate Housewives, Brothers and Sisters, Private Practice, and Grey's Anatomy. Sigh... What a scarfice I am facing lately.

Nolan's Artwork Project

2009-01-13T16:11:00.000-08:00

As a consultant, I got an opportunity to learn Creative Memories' Memory Manager 2.0. This program allows me to import pictures from DVDs, CDs, and hard drive. It also allows me to edit pictures such as cropping, brightening, darkening, rotating, and changing textures on images. It's a thrill for me to learn something new especially with organizing pictures in this program!

I scanned some of Nolan's artwork and also imported a few pictures when he was a baby and a toddler. I look forward to create a very first Storybook to be published soon. : )

That would be great to get rid most of his artwork instead of having it to build up as a clutter in our home.

Financial Books

2009-01-08T15:19:00.000-08:00

Finally I sat down on the couch and watched Oprah TV show today. Oprah made an announcement for viewers, who are welcome to download Suze Orman's 2009 Action Plan from Internet. This free downloading of this book will expire by next Thursday, January 15th.

I downloaded Suze Orman's book and am reading this book. It is one of my resolutions to regain and manage financial better this year.

In addition, I am also reading Total Money Makeover written by Dave Ramsey.

I Heart Faces

2009-01-06T00:29:00.000-08:00

I was reading one of blogs a few days ago. I decided to go ahead and participate this kind of a giveaway via I Heart Faces blog. I also had an opportunity to add this cute button, which appeared on the sidebar of this blog. It is one of my resolutions to get involved and be more active with my personal blog.

It's ain't too late to learn something new!

2009 Resolutions

2009-01-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking on and off about my resolutions for this year. I think it is best to keep my resolutions simple since I don't want to put myself under pressure. Here they are:

**Get everything in each rooms well organized
**Purge stuff from the house
**Focus and spend some time with Creative Memories
**Read and finish a few books this year
**Keep up with my blogs almost daily
**Reach to my ideal weigh
**Say personal prayers
**Read scriptures

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-01T11:21:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that it is now January 1, 2009! Time flies! Nolan and I had great time on New Year Eve at Korean Church located in Tacoma, Washington. It took me past two hours since I picked up my friend, who lives in Renton and then headed off to Tacoma especially in traffic congestion everywhere on 405 and I-5 freeways! Good thing that I survived that night after long way driving.

While we were there, we had delicious special Korean smashed, rolled, and sliced rice cake with a string noodle, very thin steak slices and sliced green onions. It is called Tteokguk. I learned that it is Korean traditional to eat that special kind of dish. It brings good luck for this year. Among with this dish, we had Kimchi, Water Kimchi, slices of orange, and a cup of hot tea.

As for Nolan, he had an apple, some chips, little big of homemade American sandwich, and apple juice. Then we had some snacks afterward such as ham, turkey, cookies, and drinks.

While we were there at that Church, there was a deaf pastor, who gave a bible study instruction. I even cannot remember what was his name. And then there was a combined hearing and deaf church meeting, which started at midnight and ended at one in the morning.

Actually it was great opportunity for us to get out of the house and really enjoy ourselves among with other deaf and hearing people especially learning something about Jesus. I am grateful that we arrived home safety. Actually we got home past 3 in the morning! I had to drop a friend of mine in Renton and then dropped a friend and her 5 years old daughter in Shoreline, which was about 15 minutes from my home.

I hope that this year will bring us such a good luck in our lives. Everybody - have a Happy New Year!

Work & News in the Snow

2008-12-19T19:28:00.000-08:00

Two teenage boys came to the house yesterday and offered to shovel the snow in the driveway and walkway in exchange for money. I replied no, so they left.

As for today, Nolan and I had some time by shoveling the snow in the driveway and walkway. Nolan enjoyed learning how to shovel. I took a few pictures of him outside in the snow. I plan to have this roll to be developed sometimes soon.

Of course I am still using an old-fashioned camera with film. Hopefully that I get to find a good digital camera at reasonable price perhaps in January.

In addition, I was watching news via King 5 News this late afternoon today. It was hard to believe that two huge buses crashed with each other and they both went a little over I-5 freeway located in Capitol Hill - Seattle! These young kids were terrified! Good thing is that they are all alive and unharmed. It was a big scare for them to have this kind of an experience.

Latest news about weather, which I have learned that we will have another snowstorm coming again by tomorrow night through this coming Sunday. What an unbelievable COLD weather we are facing nowadays! We are hanging in there. : )

Color of Language Calendar Available for Purchase

2008-12-18T21:38:00.000-08:00

If anybody, who are interested in purchasing a new 14 months Color of Language calendar. It starts from January 2009 through February 2010. It is ideal for people, who are interested in visualizing and learning basic sign language. Theme of this calendar focus on "Opposites". It is fantastic way to visualize and to learn ASL.

Since there are probably some snowstorms in some areas in USA, it is never too late to get calendars for family and friends as gifts for the holidays.

In case if anybody, who are interested in purchasing this really neat calendar(s), are welcome to put down my name - Dina Marie as an agent.

Thanks!

Happy Holidays!

Snow in Pacific Northwest!

2008-12-14T17:28:00.000-08:00

Nolan and I woke up and was thrilled that there was snow on the ground this morning. It looked lovely white all over. Of course it was very cold outside, so we stayed home today. And Nolan had a cold. Hopefully that he gets well real soon.

I checked King 5 news via website this afternoon. It says that the weather will be very cold for several days. There may be more snow on the way tonight and even on this coming Thursday of this week.

Houses in Broadview Area

2008-12-04T15:51:00.000-08:00

I took a look via Zillow to see how much value of my home in Edmonds and my former home in Seattle is worth nowadays. I noticed that values are low due to economy crisis we are facing nowadays.

I somehow looked up the house about one block from my former home located in Seattle where I grew up. To my surprise, that house is on the market for $1,460,000. That house where I used to go for a swim in their swimming pool often when I was young. I used to have a hearing friend, who lived there. She knew sign language. I remembered that I really enjoyed our time together by swimming and playing games together. We also used to go to Leavenworth once with her family.

Our friendship had been fading away as we became older. I recall that she and her family were in the process of remodeling their home. I finally had an opportunity to take a look at these pictures inside of their home just recently. I did not know that interior had been extremely attractive and modern style with plenty of light and especially with the view of the Puget Sound! When I was seeing these pictures, it brought me memories of how much I spent time with her. I absolutely have no idea of the reason why her family is selling that house nowadays.

Speaking of my former home where I was raised, I somehow took a look at the picture of a "newly" remodeled house. It has three triangles with white trimming on the second floor up on the hill. It has the color of periwinkle. I suggest to click on right arrow about four times then can click on plus to see that house closely if desired. I cannot believe that I was to see the house where I was raised on that video!

Another Giveaway

2008-12-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

This morning I was reading one of my favorite blog. I learned from that blog that there is a blogger, who created a personalized wall art. It's a frame with a picture of a baby or a family with a matching ribbon hanging on the wall. Design of different pattern on the matte matches with the interior design of a room such as a bedroom or kid's bedroom. Really neat! I entered my comment via The Inspired Room this morning.

Martha Stewart: Bloopers & Book

2008-12-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

I was reading a blog written by Martha Stewart last night. She had bloopers, which happened on her tv show probably a couple days ago. Nobody is perfect while working and serving in kitchen. As for me, I sometimes am clumsy while I was busy by tidying up and cooking in the kitchen. So, enjoy watching!

Since I am sharing something about bloopers, which was shown on Martha's TV show in this blog, I am reading one of her books entitled The Martha Rules: 10 Essentials for Achieving Success as you Start, Build, or Manage a Business. I personally think it is worth to read this book. I am looking forward learning more from this book.

Of course I admire her as a person and how much work she had done on her show and at her homes.

New Len via Squidoo

2008-12-02T17:32:00.000-08:00

Out of the blue, I created a new len via Squidoo website yesterday. That len is entitled My Thoughts about Brothers and Sisters TV Show. I plan to share my thoughts and my perspective of this one of my favorite TV show. The reason why I really like this TV show is because of a family bonding. And that mother played by Sally Field, who was very ambitious widow since she does not allow a variety of adversities go over her. Of course I like actors and actresses on that show. I will see how I do with this len.

In addition to this len, I created another len entitled Utilizing ASL in Communication is Beautiful. That len is based on general news, events, movies, and my thoughts. Also an additional news that is happening in the Pacific Northwest. I think I created this len since last Spring of this year.

Busy Monday

2008-12-01T15:00:00.000-08:00

This morning I tidied up the kitchen and did some work on my home business. I spent over an hour on the computer.

While there was enough time for me to take a break and to do errands. I went to Post Office and mailed an envelope. Then I unexpectedly made a stop at Costco gas station to fill up partially in the gas tank of my car.

At last, I made a stop at the Lynnwood Library and returned DVDs. I took only ten minutes by looking through some DVDs. Guess what? I found movies such as Dumbo, Curious George rides a bike, Hercules, and Mary Poppins. I also found movies that I might enjoy watching. They are the Marx Brothers movie called A Day at the Races, Buster Keaton's Go West, and Miss Potter. Of course I enjoy watching silent movies. Sometimes it can be hard to pick out good movies at the libary, but still that it is really nice to borrow books at no charge.

After Nolan returned back home, a friend of mine called me that afternoon and asked me if he could use my car to take a trip to the Seattle waterfront to drop off his daughter at the ferry. Hopefully when he returns, my car is going to be in a good condition!

Thanksgiving Holiday

2008-12-01T11:15:00.000-08:00

I hope that everybody enjoyed their Thanksgiving holiday this past weekend. I had a great time at a friend's home located in Renton. Thanksgiving dinner was delicious especially homemade cranberry sauce and stuffing. My friend's kids had great time playing with Nolan. It was quite tiring to remind kids to keep quiet by avoiding jumping, marching loudly, and running around due to people, who are living below from my friend's apartment. We watched a movie about dinosaurs while Nolan was more interested in inserting CD in the Mac's hard drive and removing CD from the drive. He kept walking back and forth to exchange CDs. He was not interested in watching a movie on that day.

On that day, we made delicious homemade apple crisp even though it was hard work by peeling skins from apples.

Now that Thanksgiving holiday is over, it is hard to believe that December is already here. Time flies!

The Day Before Thanksgiving Day

2008-11-26T10:16:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe that it is the day before Thanksgiving Day. I have been quite busy since the beginning of this week. So, I am going to take easy today and this weekend.

As for today, I am going to take care of my home business then off I go to the library to return a few DVDs and go to grocery stores to buy some food. My plan for today is to make a homemade apple cobbler with lot of slices of apples inside! Yummy.

As for Nolan, he was at the bowling place with other deaf and hard of hearing kids from Madrona and Edmonds-Woodway High School at the bowling place located in Lynnwood.

Our plan for Thanksgiving Day is to take easy by perhaps watch Macy's parade, tidying up in the Family Room, and going over to my childhood friend's home for Thanksgiving dinner.

Update News: Learned that Nolan made two crosses in bowling. Really cool for a four years old boy, who was able to do that in bowling!

Book Giveaway

2008-11-16T00:57:00.000-08:00

I learned of this book giveaway via Bloggin' 'bout Books. The title of this book giveaway is entitled A Life Well Read. This book giveaway is like an organizer for readers, who enjoy reading books and keeping records of books they read. Also, there are a few accessories including a fancy pen that goes with this book giveaway. I posted my comment on that blog. I mentioned that bookmark and a gift certificate are my favorite bookish gifts. My plan to take some time to read that blog.

Oprah: Clean Up Your Messy Home!

2008-11-13T14:51:00.000-08:00

I was reading one of my favorite blogs last night. It was about Peter Walsh, who appeared on Oprah's Talk Show based on how he just appeared at people's doorsteps unexpectedly by offering to help them to get started by decluttering in their homes.

Later in that show, Peter brought up an idea for parents to go through each of their kids' artwork and have them to be either taken pictures from their digital cameras or use their scanners. Nice way to preserve kids' artwork into a free 8" x 11" custom-cover photo book via Snapfish.

I had an opportunity to get started by creating a photo book. Of course I am going to go through artwork with Nolan in order to work together either to get rid or to preserve them. Actually it is my first time to have this experience by having artwork to be transferred into this photo album. That photo book is worth $29.99 but with Oprah's special offer, it's free. But people are responsible to pay for the shipping and handling. Isn't that a good deal? Also, it is great opportunity for people to have an experience on creating their own photo books.

National Stay Inside Day

2008-11-11T23:09:00.000-08:00

I was reading a post via Rebecca's blog just before I went to bed. I am aware that California's Proposition 8 had been passed. People, who are against this proposition, plan to march in order to voice their rights on this coming Saturday, November 15th. It is best to stay home if possible to avoid some possible conflicts and turmoils that might happen out there.

I like this statement Rebecca wrote, which states:

"Keep The Peace

Let them speak, yell, curse, flip off...

Stay inside, and wait for a brighter day on Sunday November 16th."

For more information, readers are welcome to go to Rebecca's blog to learn more about National Stay Inside Day.

The Color Code: Personality Test

2008-11-04T17:59:00.001-08:00

A friend of mine sent me an email of a link of The Color Code last week. It is based on an analysis of Personality within me at no charge. Finally I had spare time and took personality test on how I behaved as a child. I find this test quite interesting. I learned of what kind of characteristics I have in me.

In addition to this Personality Test, there is a Comprehensive Analysis, which contains a complete 20+ page report. I had my Comprehensive Analysis printed.

Here is the result of my profile based on who I am:

My Profile

white:	41.53%
blue:	27.61%
red:	20.26%
yellow:	10.6%

Below is a summary of your profile. Your Comprehensive Analysis contains your complete 20+ page report.
Summary
Congratulations, you are a white.
white: 41.53%
blue: 27.61%
red: 20.26%
yellow: 10.6%
Whites (Motive: Peace)

whites are motivated by Peace. They seek independence and require kindness. They resist confrontation at all costs. To them, feeling good is more important than being good. They are typically quiet by nature, process things very deeply and objectively with great clarity. Of all the colors, whites are the best listeners. They respect people who are direct but recoil from perceived hostility or verbal battle.

whites need their "alone time" and refuse to be controlled by others. whites want to do things their own way and in their own time. They ask little of others and resent others demanding much of them. whites are much stronger than people think, but are not often seen for their strength because they don't easily reveal their feelings. whites are even-tempered, diplomatic, and the voice of reason; but can also be indecisive, unexpressive, and silently stubborn. When you deal with a WHITE, be kind, accept and support their individuality, and look for non-verbal clues to understand their feelings.

30 for 30 Challenge

2008-11-03T23:41:00.000-08:00

One of blogs, which I read almost daily entitled Rebecca's Blog. She brought up a challenge for people like me to participate in order to keep healthy by eating less and doing more physically. This challenge will last till the end of this month.

As for myself, I am planning to follow up with this challenge. It is going to be a challenge since I am a single mother and that I need to make time to treat myself by taking a walk. So, I am going to try my best to follow up with this goal for this month.

Which Mighty Woman of the Bible am I Mostly Like?

2008-10-27T22:41:00.000-07:00

This morning I took a quiz via Facebook to see which woman of the Bible I am mostly like. Here is the result I received:

You are most like ESTHER

You have a charisma; a way of having favor with people. You are beautiful in spirit, and when you are in dire situations, you tend to seek God to find your courage to overcome them. When the need arises, you will stand firm in your faith. You are true royalty, with your humble & gentle spirit you maintain, in spite of your obvious popularity.

Calfornia's Proposition 2: Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act

2008-10-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

I had an opportunity to watch Oprah Winfrey's TV show briefly last night. It was quite interesting to see some videos based on how farmers raise and take care of their animals such as pigs, cows, and chicken. I personally think it is worth for viewers to actually see how animals live daily.

Some farmers believe that it is best to keep animals caged and crated, so that way they can easily provide food and focus on each animals. Still these animals have limitation of space, which they are unable to move. They are confined in their spaces and have no life. They just eat and sleep. They probably don't know how to use their legs to walk.

At the same time, some farmers believe to let their animals to wander around free outside and enjoy life within their boundaries.

I have learned that California's Proposition 2: Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act, which will be on the ballots in November 2008. Once if this proposition passes with YES, farmers by law must allow their animals to wander around free from either being caged or crated.

This proposition could affect other states in America. Never know.

Salmon Hatchery Field Trip

2008-10-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

Nolan had gone on a field trip with other deaf and hard of hearing children with staff from his school to Salmon Hatchery located in Issaquah today. It was an opportunity for them to learn more about "raising" and taking care of salmons.

A Lovely Gift from Korea

2008-10-14T14:14:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine, who stayed in Seoul, Korea with his family for a month, had given me a really neat gift last Saturday. It has a lovely olive floral pattern fabric and dark solid color, which I am not familiar of which color with a dark wooden frame. It also has three different Korean Traditional Masks shown in that frame.

By reading English statements printed by small masks, it says that there is a cloth attached to these masks to cover the back of the head of the players. This gives an opportunity for the audience to really enjoy the play(s). Also, it has Korean language printed.

Since it was a quite interesting portrait, I had this Korean frame to be displayed on the shelf in the Family Room.

What kind of hair cut should I get?

2008-10-13T09:45:00.000-07:00

In addition, I took some time to complete an interesting quiz via Facebook. It is to determine to see what kind of haircut I should have. Here is the result, which I received:

Long

you like the long flirtaious hair or you like it long just to have it that way. Get some layers or get some bangs to add a nice touch to your long hair.

Which Zodiac Sign Am I Most Compatible With?

2008-10-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

I took a quiz via Facebook this morning to see which Zodiac Sign I fit well with. Here is the result, which I received via FB. Interesting...

Pisces

You are most compatible with PISCES! I'm sure most of your friends are Pisceans! Together you're going to rock! Pisceans possess a gentle, patient, malleable nature. They have many generous qualities and are friendly, good natured, kind and compassionate, sensitive to the feelings of those around them, and respond with the utmost sympathy and tact to any suffering they encounter. They are deservedly popular with all kinds of people, partly because their easygoing and affectionate. Pisces are rarely content. They are more readily concerned with the problems of others than with their own. They are never egotistical in their personal relationships and give more than they ask from their friends. They are nevertheless intensely loyal and home-loving and will remain faithful.

Chit Chat and Tea Time with a Friend

2008-10-07T19:33:00.000-07:00

After I was done with a couple of appointments in the morning, my friend and I met at nearby a popular and cozy Coffee shop located in Seattle. That shop was quite interesting. It had three garage doors in that small building. I have learned that site used to have cars' windows to be replaced in the old times. No wonder these garage doors are still there. Good thing that it has a double doors, which allow customers to enter.

Of course coffee shops are quite popular in the Pacific Northwest area. It is really nice to relax by sitting in plushy couch(es) or seat(s), and chit chat with acquaintance(s) with cups of beverages and snacks. Also, it's a benefit for people to use their laptops for either work or pleasure at that shop.

My friend was kind by treating me with a delicious slice of ham and cheddar cheese quiche and a teacup of an organic oriental tea. That tea tasted somewhat weak but tasted good when I added some honey in it. Yummy.

LDS General Conference - Sunday

2008-10-06T12:40:00.000-07:00

While I was watching LDS Conference via BYU TV channel on and off, I was surprised to recognize someone whom I personally knew. That person had given a closing prayer at the end of the conference. It was Elder Marcus Nash, who used to be called as Stake President in Lynnwood area. He used to work as a lawyer in Seattle area.

In addition, I recall that he was very supportative for the Deaf. He even made an effort to communicate with deaf people by using "Hello. How are you?" in sign language.

I learned that he was called as Area President to serve in Chile in South America. He received this calling a couple of years ago. Actually I was behind of hearing variety of news that are happening with the Church.

At last, it was really nice to see someone whom I knew on TV screen.

LDS General Conference - Saturday

2008-10-04T17:49:00.000-07:00

After I return back home from the funeral service and got my car filled up with gasoline, I got a chance to watch a few minutes of LDS General Conference on BYU TV channel.

From what I have learned that it is good to offer a personal prayer in mornings daily. It's a good way to start a day. The more sincere while we say in our prayers, positive results will happen in our lives.

Again I was terribly tired and was half-asleep while I was watching a little bit of LDS General Conference. I promised that I plan to watch two hours worth of this conference tomorrow morning.

Memorial: Jenevieve Ellen Konecki

2008-10-04T15:32:00.000-07:00

I had an opportunity to attend to Jeni's funeral service located in Sea Tac today. This service was lovely. There were some deaf people among with a few interpreters, who attended.

I was impressed with a pastor from Church of Christ in Federal Way, who is familiar by using sign language. Of course he had two interpreters, who signed according to his speech. He spoke based on Jeni's life and her likes.

It was also good to hear from the pastor that it is ain't end of life. Of course she passed away and was buried. Actually she lived again in Heaven. Just like Jesus Christ, who died and resurrected. Of course we are unable to see them with our own eyes while we are on earth. It is not necessary to cry but to rejoice that they lived again. And life goes on such as we people on earth have jobs, which we need to earn living and have children to raise. That message reminds me that I need to get back to Church by reading and learning more about scriptures.

Again it is important for us to follow based on how we feel. It is ok to grieve.

Speaking of Jeni, I personally knew her while we were attending to Seattle Central Community College (SCCC). She used to live in a mobile home on 125th while I used to live in Broadview area on 127th and 7th Ave NW. She was really a friendly and social person. The last time I saw her in person was at the Green Lake Coffee House during winter season perhaps last December with her boyfriend, Walter.

Speaking of funeral service, I got a chance to have a short talk with her then husband, Walter. I learned that they got married on May 31, 2008 in Steilcom. They met each other through Galaxy via Internet. They had known each other for 7 years and began dating for a year. He had strong feeling for her since he cannot stand being apart from her. He proposed to her after a year of dating.

It was quite interesting that just after three months of being happily married to each other, she passed away last month. It must be hard on him.

Here is an obituary, which was published via Deaf Northwest:

"Jenevieve Ellen Konecki was born on December 18, 1962 in Seattle, WA. She was well known as Jeni by her friends and family. She passed away at 46 years of age on Wednesday morning, September 17, 2008 from liver failure caused by a resurgence of cancer, which she had battled two years earlier.

She was a board member of Community Service Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CSCDHH).

Jeni is survived by her loving husband, Walt, her mother, Patt, her stepfather, Jerry. "

Motivational Speecher: Miriam Richards

2008-10-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

I was informed that this deaf woman named Miriam Richards, who made a goal to climb on each highest point of each mountains in fifty states, plans to give a speech at Seattle's REI store on Thursday, October 9th at 7 PM. She was also diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) three years ago. That "disability" did not stop her from having a desire to climb on top of each mountains in USA.

There's a highlight of her speech based on how she reacted when she faced with bears at Mt. Hood.

In addition, there is a club called Highpointers Club. The purpose of this club is to have members, who have a dream to climb on highest point of each mountains in USA. Once they meet this criteria, they earn a Energizer Keep Going Hall of Fame.

Dr. Phil: Inner Peace

2008-10-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

This morning I got a chance to read one of my favorite blogs. I was reminded of this statement in regards with inner peace.

"Dr. Phil proclaimed, 'The way to achieve inner peace is to finish all the things you have started and have never finished.' So, I looked around my house to see all the things I started and hadn't finished,and before leaving the house this morning, I finished off a bottle of White Zinfandel, a bottle of Bailey's Irish Cream, a package of Oreos, the remainder of my old Prozac prescription, the rest of the cheesecake, some Doritos, and a box of chocolates. You have no idea how freaking good I feel right now."

That statement reminds me that I really need to finish cleaning and catching up in the kitchen, laundry, and do carpet cleaning. I know that I have no doubt that I have self-esteem every time I finish by doing some kinds of housework, paperwork, and any kinds of projects, etc.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2008-10-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

Ironic thing is that I picked and wore a hot pink polo this morning among with my gray carpi sweat pants this morning. I was not aware that during the month of October, it was actually National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

How did I found out? I somehow was watching Ellen DeGeneres's Talk Show with Suzanne Sommers based on her new book for the last 25 minutes.

Supernanny Assisting Deaf Family

2008-09-29T09:07:00.001-07:00

There is an episode, which Supernanny's Jo Frost, assisting a deaf family located in Omaha, Nebraska. It is scheduled to be shown on ABC on Friday, October 10th. As I recall, it used to be shown on every Wednesdays, but it had been changed to Fridays this season. Please check local listing in order to know what time it starts.

In addition, Jo Frost has her own website especially her own forum and appearance schedule.

Boot Camp

2008-09-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

Last night was the last class of It Takes Two to Talk at Seattle's Children's Hospital. The audiologist, who was teaching this class, was kind to offer pizza and drinks for all of us.

During a break time during class, audiologist somehow shared with us that she joined Boot Camp, which lasts for 4 weeks. No wonder that she prefers not to drink coffee in the evening. Of course having a cup of hot coffee and gourmet kind of coffee are quite popular in Seattle and in Pacific NW region.

Speaking of Boot Camp, she goes to Green Lake on every Mondays through Thursdays in the morning from 6 AM to 7 AM. They do workouts such as push-ups, sit-ups, running, and walking, etc. I was impressed to learn that her instructor, who leads this camp, used to do this kind of a workout on her own at her home at no charge.

Then a friend of that lady, who leads Boot Camp, joined with her by working out in her backyard at her home. Then later a few other friends joined them. And then number of ladies increased from only one, two, then five, and then ten. It was too crowded to do workouts in her own backyard, she puts that on hold since she went to school and studied Holistic Fitness and Nutrition. From her completion of her studies, she is a Holistic Fitness Practitioner and Certified Outdoor Trainer.

As for nowadays, her own creation of a boot camp became even more popular that ladies went ahead and sign up. And now she gets paid.

I personally think it is really neat for her to be able to run her own Boot Camp business.

Como's Actual Cat Age

2008-09-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

I received an email a few days ago about taking a questionnaire based on how young my cat is. So, I finally found some time this morning to take this questionnaire.

This also gave me an opportunity to find some old records of my cat, Como. Funny thing is that I thought he is age 7 the whole time. I was shocked to learn that he is actually age 9! Good thing that I made a food switch last month that fits his needs since he's a senior. Of course I recall that I adopted him when he was age 1. Time flies!

According to records, I recall when I adopted him on May 27th 2000, his name was Gary. I dislike that name for that cat. So, I decided to have his name to be changed to Como. That name was part of my grandfather's name, which was Giacomo. This record refreshed my memory.

As a result of this Cat Age questionnaire, it shows that his CatAge is 53.5. It means that he's only 1.2 years older than the average CatAge. This result gave me some ideas of how to improve his health, so that way he can have a long, healthy and happy life even though that he has an Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

In case if anybody, who are interested into knowing their cats' actual ages, can go to this CatAge website and find out!

California: Proposition 8

2008-09-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

I was reading one of my favorite blogs today. I admit that I don't usually keep up by reading more about propositions in the state of Washington. Again I don't keep up with news especially what is happening with the government and so on. I have my own life to worry about.

Speaking of a proposition that the state of California is proposing, it was quite interesting to learn something about Proposition 8 in case if it passes. Purpose of this proposition is to protect the meaning of a marriage, which is an union between husband and wife. Readers are encouraged to read a clear explanation of what is Proposition 8.

Autumn in Seattle

2008-09-20T22:22:00.000-07:00

After our appointment and lunch at Seattle's Children Hospital, I took Nolan to Green Lake Park. It's an excellent park for children and adults to enjoy walking, roller skating, bicycling, fishing, and skateboarding.

While we were there at Green Lake, he enjoyed bicycling while I walked on a 2.8 mile paved path. It was hard to believe that it is already autumn due to cool weather and people no longer sunbathe.

During our leisure time at the park, we saw many ducks walking nearby the lake, passing by the path, and sitting on green pasture. It looks like ducks are taking over especially during the fall season.

My Cat, Como

2008-09-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

Last few weeks ago, I was concerned about my cat, Como. He had been vomiting on an average of once a week since last month for a few weeks. I was afraid that he would be serious ill. He is 7 years old. He is surely a good cat! My son, Nolan and I enjoy his company.

Yesterday we brought him over to the vet near my home and had him to be physically checked. I was informed that Como has Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). I have learned that there is no cure for this kind of a disease. It is common in older cats to have this diease.

His vet gave him an injection. All I can do is to provide him healthy dry food. Hopefully that an injection and healthy dry food will help control this inflammation. Of course he will be monitored closely.

On a short note, every time when I am talking with someone on a videophone in the office, Como alway sits on a chair nearby me. He tends to wave and tag with his paw on me to get my attention. Isn't that cute?

Work with Deaf and Blind

2008-09-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

To my surprise, someone whom I know, sent me an email last night. She asked me to see if I would be interested into working with a deaf/blind person at a deaf/blind person's farewell party on this coming Sunday, September 21st. I have thought about it and replied to her via email that I am happy to do tactile interpreting and guiding with a deaf/blind person at this event. It was a honor for her to remember me and thought that I may be interested into building up my skills by working and communicating with a deaf/blind person.

Of course, I have an experience by tactile interpreting and information feeding based on what is happening in an environment with different deaf/blind people a few years ago.

I somehow stopped doing this kind of work due to my marriage and had a baby. I thought that it is nice for me to have an opportunity to get back in the deaf/blind community as I could.

It Takes Two to Talk

2008-09-16T13:29:00.000-07:00

Nolan and I have been attending to Seattle’s Children’s Hospital on every Tuesdays since last July. He goes to playgroup while I take a class that is based on a book entitled It Takes Two to Talk. This book was written by Jan Pepper and Elaine Weitzman.

It’s an excellent book that focuses on how to develop communication, language, and interaction skills especially with babies, toddlers, and children, who have developmental delays. This book is also excellent for children, who are deaf and hard of hearing.

When we were getting ready to leave for Children’s Hospital last Tuesday of last week (September 9th), I was stunned when Nolan used words in Children’s Hospital in sign language to me. I felt good that I kept on exposing him with different words in sign language. It took a while for him to absorb in his mind and really understand of what words mean.

At last, it was worth my time to take It Takes Two to Talk class. It gives me some ideas of how I can assist and expose Nolan by building up his communication, language, and interaction skills.

National Stay at Home Week

2008-09-15T13:37:00.000-07:00

After I was watching a short preview of Desperate Housewives last night, there was a special "declaration", which stated "National Stay at Home Week" sign. Due to Hurricane Ike, gas prices soared. So, this declaration was added as a part of commercial, so that way people such as viewers are being encouraged to conserve gas by staying home and enjoy by watching these new episodes of their favorite TV shows such as Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, Dancing with the Stars, etc.

National Stay at Home Week starts during that week of Sunday, September 21st through Saturday, September 27th.

Gotta to do Man's Job

2008-09-13T22:55:00.000-07:00

Today was warm and sunny weather outside in Pacific NW area. So, I got a chance to mow the lawn. I was somehow brave enough to mow in the area nearby bamboo plants in the front yard. There were bees pollinating these plants. I was concerned that bees could sting on me, which I was mowing and probably bothering them while they were pollinating. Good thing that they did not sting on me.

What a good workout for me since I mowed the lawn in both front and back yard especially a long hill beside of the home. Unfortunately that I have sore in my arms and shoulders, which I absolutely have no idea of how I have this soreness.

After I was done mowing, I used a weed and grass killer and sprayed toward weeds and grass in the driveway. On the label, it says that it will progress up to 12 hours. I'll see how it looks by tomorrow.

After I was done working outside, I replaced three Conserv-Energy compact fluorescent light bulbs in the dining room, outside in the patio, and nearby the garage door.

At last, I removed masking in the front porch after it is done with painting. A friend of mine, who came over for a visit saw the red wine painting in the front porch and thought it was done professionally. Actually, it was my first time to paint in the front porch and deck. It brought self-esteem in me that I was able to take care of my home instead of paying someone else to do it for me.

After my day taking care of my yard and my home, I had salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette dressing with slices of carrots, onions, a hard boiled egg and bacon bits among with a dish of baked chicken breast. Yummy.

Then I had a chat with a friend of mine via videophone and watched a movie.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

2008-08-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

I took a quiz today to see which Disney Princess I am. Isn't that interesting?

You Are Ariel!

Headstrong and fiesty. You have a mind of your own that's full of romantic dreams about the world around you. Exploring exotic places is your ultimate dream, and although you can be a little naive you'll realize that there is something to be gained from your family's wisdom.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

Shelley Beattie

2008-03-12T00:04:00.000-07:00

I subscribe Deaf Northwest Yahoogroup. There was shocking news that the woman, whom I basically knew from attending Western Oregon State College located in Monmouth, Oregon. It is now changed to Western Oregon University.

That woman name was Shelley Beattie. She was a deaf and muscular woman. She was 2 years older than I am. She was well known as a contester on a TV Show called “American Gladiators”.

During college years, she took me to the building where she had modeling pictures taken. We were there to view and see how her pictures turned out. Afterwards, we had lunch together at once. I recall that she loves to eat alot! Still she is in good physical fitness. It was hard to believe that she passed away even though she was young. Cause of her death was unknown. Life goes on…

Newbie and Goals to Achieve This Year

2008-01-14T12:30:00.000-08:00

It is a thrill to have my first blog entitled Dina Marie's Memoir Blog to be set up via Blogger. I am open to hear any feedback.

One of my resolution for this year is to read a few books. There is a book, which I am reading, entitled "The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness" written by Dave Ramsey. This book is designed to help individuals and families to regain their budget. This way they can have peace and happiness in their lives without stress and anxiety.

As my goal for this year is to keep my schedule in routine daily in order to focus on my home businesses, taking care of my son, and our home. It seems that my schedule is sometimes off the balance due to appointments I have and end up taking care of other matters. My hope to succeed in my home businesses this year.