Delusions of Reality

Owning a house is a never-ending but delightful string of repairs and improvements. Last week I took the plunge in repairing the chinking between the logs of my living room. (I have a partial log cabin, its a lakestyle hybrid like most of the houses in Lake Mohawk). The section in question was on the interior part of the house and I found a decent chinking recipe online. I wanted to stay true to the original materials so did a blend of sand, lime and portland cement. It went fairly well and did a few key spots. Today I am touching it up with paint to match the pre-existing chinking.

My next project is to split wood from a fallen oak tree given to me by my father. I need to either rent a 16 ton hydraulic splitter or find someone to do it for me. Any advice out there? I am having a wood stove installed later this season (yeah!)and this wood can go a long way if salvaged. I don't have a truck with a hitch anymore (sigh) and so getting the equipment to my home has proven a challenge. I have a few calls into tree guys, so we will see what manifests.

I am planning on attempting to have a social life this month. I am having some friends over for a 'Girl's Night In' next weekend and then I am heading to my first SCA event in two years the weekend after that. What? Two weekend's out in a row?! That is sounding like a social life?! Who would have thunk it?

Funny how you don't always think of sharing certain tidbits with the world, even though you're 'over the moon' when you get the news....

My cousin and her family just congratulated me on LJ for winning The Denville Chamber's 'Business Person of the Year Award'. My sister and I were quite taken back for the criteria is extreme tough and we didn't even fit the first criteria of '10 years in business'. The Awards Chairperson explained that it was unorthodox, but that the work we have done far out-shown the length of time.

She said our active work within the chamber, such as creating a several committees that handle parking, pageantry and Commerce was of some merit. Then our three expansions in 5 years has left a wonderful mark on the town. Lastly, our philanthropic work including our monthly Wellness Clinic that offer free services to those struggling with Cancer were among the reason for the award.

She practically made me cry on the phone, I was so touched by all the kind expressions of how we have impacted our wonderful town. It is truly an honor to be recognized by your peers.

The first FaerieCon was held this past weekend in Philadelphia PA. It had lots of big names in the the Faerie world; Brian and Wendy Froud, Holly Black, Charles Vess, and many many others. The people were amazing. Kinder spirits everywhere you looked and so many friends from other events. The whole Spoutwood clan was there which really added to my joy. I came down to the event with Sweet Pea Faerie, the Graceful Faerie and friends.

Each night was a Faerie Ball. Good Faeries and then Bad Faeries. The music at both shows was exceptional, but maybe a little too low-key for the energy of the room.

The costumes were just spectacular!! I was blown away by the level of creativity and thought of my fellow fae. My clan took lots of pictures, so hopefully I will post some soon.

I unfortunately got sick by the time I got to the Bad Faerie ball, so after an hour I had to leave. I didn't make it it to Sunday's event, so I miss some good lectures and some additional book signings. I was a very bummed Faerie.

I also didn't get to showcase my Gryphon costume. I love that one. I posted my Good Faerie outfit. (photo taken by ladyceleste )

This week I have officially moved to my new home! It is a converted Log Cabin with wonderful lakestyle features. It sits on a double lot with lots of trees and flowers.

The move went great with the help of my friend Deborah. It turns out that I WAY underestimated the amount of stuff I had!! I was slated for a 1/3rd of a truck but I filled the entire truck. Upon arrival at my new place we were able to unpack over half the boxes and get the packaging back on the truck before they left!! How good it feels to be mostly unpacked.

Now to paint and work on the yard, not to mention the million little things I want to do to this new place. The wonders of ownership!

What a glorious weekend! Perfect temperatures for outdoor living. Saturday Night was a quintessential opportunity to take advantage of a beautiful night. Under a half moon, my sisters, Debbie, Scott and I enjoyed Sangria and S'mores in the backyard by the fire-pit. We laughed until we cried. It was one of those rare nights were the conversation was as lively as the fire warming us. From conversation ranging from gay mens' jogging attire to the proper was to say 'Borrow', we were yukking it up.

Today we went off to Target in search of Outdoor furniture to soften my sister's 'concrete jungle' and get ready for the 4TH of July. We picked out an amazing Gazebo, twinkle lights and plastic-ware accoutrements for the big night. the whole shopping experience made me 'long' for my new home, but patience will have to prevail until I get a closing date. I cannot wait to create my own 'Outdoor Oasis'.

For those who don't know, Tracy adopted the cutest little puppy. We are not sure the mix, but he has the coloring of a Shepard but is short-haired and looks a little like a Coon Hound. The dog is named 'Bauer' after Tracy's favorite 'Jack' and Bauer was the 24th adoption that day. He is too cute.

Bauer and Sake get along wonderfully and as I write this I listen to the dogs trample each other, exchanging toys and 'grrring' playfully. Tracy and I now set up 'puppy' play dates to get our pups pooped. It may be the closest thing to having children for us, so we will take what we can get.

Meanwhile, on the other side of 'The Pond' my cousin just gave birth to her first child. Skylar Rhys Lyn was born on June 15th in The Netherlands. Congrats to Heidi and Vic!

Apparently, my Aunt's side of the family is the only side producing offspring...while this side is 'taking in' the wayward dogs of the world.

Hey, at least they don't need designer jeans or a college education! So, who the smart one?! ;)

Buying a house is extremely exciting if you love to do home improvement! While my new house-to-be does not have any structural issues, or really any cosmetic issues, I am dreaming already of what to do with the space. Inside I want a blend of styles utilizing natural materials and muted jewel tones. Outside I want to create a beautiful sanctuary with an Asian twist.

I have spent most of my free time this long weekend watching HGTV for inspiration. I have jotted down some great ideas. Love the show 'Small Space Big Style' I have gotten some GREAT ideas. That lead me into about a dozen other shows that provided nuggets of good information.

I will be on an extreme budget, but that won't stop my create flow. Can't wait to get into the place and start painting! Where is Vic when I need him! ;)

It has not been a good week for my doggie. She had an allergic reaction to something over the weekend and broke out in hives on her back. Took her to the Vet and got her on antibiotics and a medical shampoo. To reward her for her bravery we went to the woods for a nice long walk. At the end of the hike, Sake eyed her favorite 'bog' to cool off in. After a quick hesitation, I told her to go ahead and get muddy. She jumped in, dipped her head and came out. As she emerged, I saw a large amount of blood emanating from her right front paw. The blood was flowing fast and I started to panic. I got her to the car and scrambled to look for something to stop the bleeding. I found a sock and tied it around the wound.

I ask the general populace of the parking lot if there was a hospital near by. As I spoke I remembered that I pass one everyday about a mile down the road. I jumped behind the wheel, and speed to the Hospital. I picked her up and ran into the Vet stating I had a emergency. Blood was dripping all over the floor and on my pants. I was worried she was losing too much blood.

After an hour surgery, the Vet informed me it was a deep puncture wound that severed a major vein and artery. He said that it was like someone taking a scalpel to her wrist, he said it was really bad. He was able to repair her leg and she is now on 'bed rest' for the next 5 days. My poor girl!

I am asking for all friends to send my dog healing energy.

A very fun and quick quiz....

you are deepskyblue #00BFFF

Your dominant hues are cyan and blue. You like people and enjoy making friends. You're conservative and like to make sure things make sense before you step into them, especially in relationships. You are curious but respected for your opinions by people who you sometimes wouldn't even suspect. Your saturation level is very high - you are all about getting things done. The world may think you work too hard but you have a lot to show for it, and it keeps you going. You shouldn't be afraid to lead people, because if you're doing it, it'll be done right. Your outlook on life is very bright. You are sunny and optimistic about life and others find it very encouraging, but remember to tone it down if you sense irritation.

the spacefem.com html color quiz

As the business go through a transformation and expansion, I am now considering buying a house! I had a vivid dream last week that I purchased a cute lake house in Sparta. (those who know me, know that I have prophetic dreams). I woke up, searched the internet and found a precious house with a fieldstone fireplace and log cabin features. It is located on a quite street at a cul-de-sac. It is on the west side of the lake (a must for me) and has a beautiful tiered property. I simply LOVE it!! I most likely will put a bid on it later this week. The great part of this situation is that it is not available till fall. So I have time to finish the store renevations before I transition into home-owner.

On top of all that I started working with a personal trainer and hiking multiple days a week. Between the two along with watching my diet, I am hoping to make internal changes too. So many changes, and all for the better. 2007 is going to be an AMAZING year!!!

The first day of spring came and went. It marks the Vernal Equinox, The beginning of the Zodiac year and my birthday. In three weeks we begin a 1450sq. ft expansion of The Urban Muse. Besides the actually growth of the space, we are making internal strives to streamline the business and make it better from the inside.

This same formula is being done with my self. I have started making huge strives to raise the quality of my life by taking time to do the things that matter most. Like taking my dog for daily walks in the woods. Hiring a personal trainer, and looking at purchasing a new home. By the Autumnal Equinox I hope to see all these changes firmly rooted in my core.

I have big plans for the business and me. Life is ever-changing and I am learning to 'not fight the river' but that doesn't mean I shouldn't have a really sweet boat.

The woods are calling me...I have a dog to walk.

Wow, what a day. This Hallmark holiday has really left me reflecting on what is important. We had a major snow and ice storm that left the roads dangerous and treacherous. While I would normally close without a second thought, I had customers who really wanted to keep their services due to the 'Valentine Day' label. While I respect their desire to honor their loved ones, I started to put my staff at risk which left me feeling less then pleased. In the end we did choose to close our doors, but the experience of 'trying' to be open made me realize where my priorities lie.

In the end, my staff's well being FAR over-weights my desire to be open at any cost. I am glad that most of our customers understood our position and supported it. The whole purpose of owning and operating a spa is to help people unwind, de-stress and feel good. Risking lives in the name of love is completely counterproductive.

Thank God everyone is home safe in thier homes. Happy Valentines Day....

Today Tracy and I are moving all non-essential items to Kim's business for storage. We need more room to function at The Muse, so we are cleaning house. We are hoping to steamline the upstairs employee lounge and give each employee their own cube to store personal stuff. We grew so organically that we need to make improvements to raise quality of life for the staff. Thank God my car is like a TARDIS, we have lots o' stuff to move.

Off I go!

Gratitude....

I am so grateful for the life I have been given. Do you realize how precious life is and are you living your life to the fullest and could die tomorrow with no regrets? Taking the time to reflect on what you are grateful for is a way of living richly. I want to start each new day reflecting on the gifts my life has bestowed on me.

I am thankful for:

A warm bed
A healthy body
An amazing Store/Spa
My wonderful siblings
A dog named Sake
The best staff a boss could ever ask for
a circle of true friends
oneness of spirit
experiencing real love
my Honda Fit
talented hands
a thirst for knowledge
a mystic's soul

The list is endless, and my heart contains the complete ledger. By seeing what you have and how blessed you are, allows you to stay on the path for living an extraordinary life. That is what I quest to do each day, to live as completely as I can.