Field Photo 4.2.2010
Field Photo 4.1.2010
Photo Courtesy Amanda Burke
Spring has finally arrived on the Gulf Coast and I couldn't be more grateful after the long, dreary winter we endured. Mandy snapped this photo yesterday while we were surveying in Ocean Springs. Lovely!
Babies and Bunnies
Earlier this week I received an email from my cousin Brittany with these photos attached. Kenlee Faith looks right at home in the snow. At six months she is a fashionista sporting darling snow wear for her first snow. 
Madison is looking every bit the snowbunny in her camo snow suite holding Ms. Rylee Grace who is not outdone by her older cousin. They make playing in the cold, wet snow look fun. I am almost tempted to join them.
Field Photo 2.3.2010
Meet Cow Cat. My initial thought, when I saw this cat was "Holstein!" I even called it cow. Imagine my surprise when I learned from the owner's friend that it's name, indeed, is Cow Cat.Cow Cat was so loving and playful. Although there were other cats hanging around none of them approached us, let alone allowed us to pet them except for Cow Cat. Cow quickly became the highlight of the afternoon, thus, earning her place as the field photo of the day. We love you Cow Cat!
Love in Ocean Springs
Constructed in the 1920's, Lovelace Drugs, located on Washington Avenue in Ocean Springs is a local institution worthy of note. A two-story, early-twentieth century commercial structure with decorative brick detailing, a Coca-Cola mural (left facade), a lovely concrete cornice, and a decorative seal displaying the construction date, Lovelace is an architectural gem. Meg and I surveyed the old pharmacy two weeks ago. While doing so, we noticed a soda fountain through the large store windows. Vowing to investigate, we did just that last Tuesday (January 26th) after an afternoon of surveying.
This is when we met David whom I would wager makes the best strawberry milkshakes on the Gulf Coast hands down. I was so impressed with David's mad milkshake-making skills that Meg and I convinced Mandy and Hugh they had to try one for themselves. Knowing David works on Tuesday afternoon we all piled into Lovelace for an afternoon treat.
We were not disappointed. Hugh ordered chocolate while Mandy got a caramel shake. To my delight, there were no complaints.
A Senior at Ocean Springs High School David moved to Ocean Springs six-years ago from Japan where his Dad was stationed with the US Navy. David is well-mannered and efficient; two characteristics that encourage future business from repeat customers.
After graduation he will begin his undergraduate studies at the University of Arkansas where he hopes to complete a degree in Engineering. Until then, we plan to become more acquainted with the red and chrome swivel stools at Lovelace Drugs, especially as the temperatures rise, watching David work his magic making milkshakes that rival Mississippi's finest.
Mamas, Divas and Chocolate
The day before the Saints battled the Vikings in the Super Dome Meg and I drove to NOLA for a day of fabulous food and shopping. We began our day at the Canal Street mall and then headed to Magazine Street to grab some grub before hitting the boutiques. Nachos Mamas is a personal favorite of mine. Known to me as a Park City icon, I was shocked to discover it was actually a chain restaurant with a Mamas located in NOLA. The food was just as I remembered it, fabulous! I am still dreaming about the black bean and cheese quesadilla I had two weeks ago. Yummy!
Following lunch Meg and I walked several blocks to Trashy Diva, my new favorite store. Each article is co-designed by New Orleanian Candice Gwinn, a diva with impeccable taste. Interested in checking her out? Visit http://www.trashydiva.com/site/indexNOW.html. Warning: This website is addictive. Believe me, I know! I can't stop drooling over the vintage inspired frocks and am excited to share I finally own one; a leopard print coat dress.
On our way to Trashy Diva we passed Sucre, a swank little chocolate shop recently featured on the local news for their NFL inspired cakes. In honor of the home team I snapped a photo of this impressive rendition of the Saints helmet over Easy Breesey gelato, which was heavenly. During your next trip to the Big Easy, include this local favorite. You won't regret it.
Field Photos 1.27.2010
Meg and I discovered this structure Wednesday while driving Harrison County. Surrounded by Katrina Cottages and single story Ranch houses, it definitely doesn't compliment or enhance the existing landscape. However, I can't help but wonder what type of person would choose to design and subsequently construct a home like this. Try as I might I can'timagine what it would be like to come "home" to this every evening.
What is the interior like? Does it resemble the exterior? How is the interior space divided? Why did the builder choose to install garage doors on the upper stories? Why not enclose the ground story and install a two-bay garage there? What's with the small single-light windows and the metal screening on the front and rear facades? I am assuming the metal screening functions to protect the windows from flying debris during hurricanes but could there be another purpose, one I am missing? Who knows? But seeing structures like this in post-Katrina Mississippi begs the question. Will the post-Katrina Mississippi resemble the "Old South" or will it evolve into something that is a complete departure from its architectural past?
Field Photo 1.26.2010
Photo Courtesy Meg RichardsonKing and Queen of the Mardi Gras geese were spotted on Jackson Avenue in Ocean Springs yesterday. Just one more reason to love Mardi Gras.
Field Photo 1.19.2010
The Old Cuevas Bistro and Bakery, located on Menge Avenue in "the Pass" is a Gulf Coast gem. Meg and I revisited Old Cuevas yesterday for lunch. Meg enjoyed a smoked salmon salad, while I feasted on a cup of veal vegetable beef stew, southern fried chicken, mashed potatoes with a cracked pepper gravy and steamed green beans.Though completely satisfied, the waitress convinced us to sample a slice carrot cake, which was honestly the best carrot cake I've ever had.
If you're looking for a pleasant dining experience, which is often a challenge in southern Mississippi, set your sights on the Old Cuevas Bistro and Bakery. You won't regret it.
For more information regarding Old Cuevas Bistro and Bakery see http://dining.passchristian.net/cuevas_bistro.htm.
Field Photo 1.15.2010
Photo Courtesy Meg RichardsonHave you ever seen an herb garden? Perhaps your parents planted one in your backyard, or your grandmother had one near her house. My parents and grandparents didn't bother with herbs. They focused more on potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, and corn; hearty vegetables whose plants were easy to distinguish from grass or weeds. I didn't even realize herbs were grown in gardens until I saw my first herb garden at Shakertown. I think I may have been eight. Since then, I think I've seen maybe half-a-dozen herb gardens, the majority of which were growing at historic sites or in small flower pots on porches where they were protected from foot traffic and easily accessible to kitchen cooks, dying to add rosemary and thyme to, you know, whatever.
Yesterday, Meg and I decided to walk around a structure, we were surveying, to investigate the building's rear exterior. Without thinking, we walked through the area depicted in the photograph above. Our stroll was interrupted midway by a chicken in a floral jacket waving her arms and shouting, "You're walking through MY herb garden!"
I reacted by frantically scanning the possibly affected area for A.) herbs and B.) damage. I saw neither. Apparently, Meg didn't either because we both asked where the plants were and what they were. The chicken squawked that herbs were not currently growing in her garden but they would be planted and growing soon. The chicken also confessed she felt like beating us with an organic carrot. The thought of being chased and beaten with an organic carrot only gave Meg and I something to mock and giggle about the rest of the afternoon. Thank you hysterical chicken.
After the organic carrot line, my Yankee bitch side came out. It became clear hippie chicken was catching on when she asked, while eyeing me, "how many of you are Yankees?"
Unwilling to humor someone who abused people with organic carrots I remained silent. Meg must have felt the same way because she didn't speak either. Only Hugh responded by saying, "I'm from Virginia." The hippie chicken responded with a knowing nod and a "Humph." As in, that explains it all.
Before concluding our conversation with distressed chicken, I suggested she post a sign marking the area as an herb garden to prevent future trampling. Apparently that was the wrong thing to say. "You want me to post a sign?" she asked. "I've posted a dozen signs! You know what? They all disappear! I can't keep signs in MY garden because EVERYONE wants a sign for THEIR herb gardens so they steal them."
Try as I might, I found it difficult to imagine young men or housewives, creeping into herb gardens to steal signs for entertainment or in desperation. I also tried to imagine vengeful chicken wondering the streets peering over wooden fences or around peoples' houses hoping to locate her stolen herb signs so she could beat the culprit with an organic carrot. Call me skeptical, but I just don't see it happening.
I thought about offering additional suggestions to violated chicken but abandoned the idea to thoughts of hibachi chicken and steak mixed with fried rice and non-organic vegetables. We ended our encounter with hippie chicken with excuses of wrapping up so we could break for lunch, which we did, by the way.
Moments later, while savoring my non-organic carrots smothered in teriyaki sauce I marveled at the power of imagination. I imagine myself doing many things but imagining an herb garden where there isn't one is something I have never done BUT walking through an imaginary herb garden...DONE.
Field Photo 1.13.2010
This afternoon Meg and I surveyed the Manhattan Grill in Ocean Springs one of the best dining experiences I've had on the Gulf Coast. It's located in the historic downtown area on Washington Avenue almost directly across from Al Fresco's another personal favorite of mine. Although it's a small town, Ocean Springs, boasts over one-hundred restaurants, and is quickly earning a reputation as the restaurant capital of Mississippi.
In addition to it's great restaurants, Ocean Springs has an abundance of boutiques, which I also love. If you're looking for great food, fantastic shopping in a small southern town, Ocean Springs is the place for you. If you need a place to stay my door is always open.
C'mon down y'all.
Field Photo 1.12.2010
Ever wonder what happened to Herbie the Love Bug? I'm not sure where Herbie is but it looks like his twin is hanging out in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Check out those "eyes" and racing stripes. Too cute!
Field Photos 1.11.2010
Photo Courtesy: Hugh McAloonInstead of joining the team in the field, I was asked to take notes for a meeting. Although I was relieved to be spared another day of surveying in the freezing temperatures I missed Meg and Hugh tremendously.
In my absence, however, they took two field photos for today's post. The first photo shows Meg posing next to a very feminine-looking bush. Note how stylish she is in her new JCrew coat. I have taken to calling her MiMi, which I think she enjoys and I totally love.
Photo Courtesy: Hugh McAloonThis dinosaur, according to Meg and Hugh, is a lawn ornament for a house located across from the Mocha Moose coffee house, which I attempted to patron once but they only accept cash, and as my friends know, I never carry cash. Seeing this photo makes me wonder about the type of people who would purchase a dinosaur lawn ornament for their house.
Are they young singles who are trying to make a statement? A married couple with young children who love dinosaurs? Or perhaps, an eccentric Southern lady like the characters in the Southern literature I enjoy so much. Either way, I think beside the fox, turtle and bears, a dinosaur may be the perfect addition to our lawn ornament family at the Cat Farm.
Field Photo 1.6.2010
For the first field photo of 2010, Mandy submitted a photo she took yesterday in Bay St. Louis. Although they resemble brick kilns, the odd pyramidal structures located behind the playground equipment are porta potties. I don't know about you, but these kiln-like structures are unlike any potties I've ever seen, let alone, used before. Not sure who designed these potties but I think they're kinda cool. Just one more reason to love fun, friendly Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
New Years in New Orleans
The purpose of this post is to convince all my friends that New Orleans is one of the best locations to welcome a new year. My hope is, if I am still residing in Biloxi on December 31, 2010, my friends will plan to join me because they want to experience New Years in the Big Easy too.
New Orleans is known for its Cajun cuisine but the Italian isn't bad either. I began my New Years celebration at Angeli's on Decatur, a hip local joint on the outskirts of the Quarter. We arrived just in time too. Shortly after we grabbed a table, several large groups descended on the restaurant only to hear they would have to wait outside or return later. Despite their busy evening Angeli's did not disappoint. This beautiful calzone found it's way to our table. I ordered my signature pizza, of course, and enjoyed every bite. A great way to ring in the New Year.
Strolling down Decatur we made our way to Jackson Square. Most of the streets in the Quarter were closed to vehicular traffic, enabling pedestrians to navigate the city in safety. Mia Borders and her band were on stage entertaining the crowd with her funky soul music. If your interested in checking out her tunes her website is located at http://www.miaborders.com/home.html.
On our way back to the hotel we decided to "stroll" down Bourbon. We anticipated the street would be crowded but nothing prepared us for what we encountered; a sea of humanity ebbing and flowing filling any empty space available between the street, the stores and the sidewalk. I felt like a salmon fighting to swim upstream.
Strolling down Decatur we made our way to Jackson Square. Most of the streets in the Quarter were closed to vehicular traffic, enabling pedestrians to navigate the city in safety. Mia Borders and her band were on stage entertaining the crowd with her funky soul music. If your interested in checking out her tunes her website is located at http://www.miaborders.com/home.html. 
On our way back to the hotel we decided to "stroll" down Bourbon. We anticipated the street would be crowded but nothing prepared us for what we encountered; a sea of humanity ebbing and flowing filling any empty space available between the street, the stores and the sidewalk. I felt like a salmon fighting to swim upstream. The Sugar Bowl is January 1. So, naturally the street was flooded with Cincinnati Bear Cat and Florida Gator fans who taunted one another by cheering for their team. In addition, Saints fans could be heard screaming all over the city, "Who Dat?!" The energy was incredible. Definitely, something to experience.
After retrieving our coats we wondered over to the Jax Beer building where baby Bacchus was waiting with his Saints football helmet and banner to countdown the new year. A fleur-de-lis, also located on the roof of JAX Beer was lowered at midnight. I couldn't see the baby but I did manage to watch the fleur-de-lis descend. This was followed by an impressive fireworks display over the Mississippi River. Showers of confetti floated through the cold air while silly string landed in my hair. Standing in the large crowd gathered on the banks of the Mississippi, watching fireworks with total strangers I felt hope. Hope for humanity, hope for a wonderful year, hope for me.
After retrieving our coats we wondered over to the Jax Beer building where baby Bacchus was waiting with his Saints football helmet and banner to countdown the new year. A fleur-de-lis, also located on the roof of JAX Beer was lowered at midnight. I couldn't see the baby but I did manage to watch the fleur-de-lis descend. This was followed by an impressive fireworks display over the Mississippi River. Showers of confetti floated through the cold air while silly string landed in my hair. Standing in the large crowd gathered on the banks of the Mississippi, watching fireworks with total strangers I felt hope. Hope for humanity, hope for a wonderful year, hope for me. Welcome, welcome 2010.
Lunch
Today I had lunch with Hugh. As the menu demonstrates we chose to eat at Hooters (the Hwy 49 location). I really like Hooters' cobb salad but the salad I had today left much to be desired. However, we had a cute, blonde, perky waitress with adequate "hooters" or is it "hoots?" To his credit, Hugh behaved like a complete gentleman.
But, as this picture illustrates, Hugh enjoyed lunch much more than I did. One of the many reasons it's great to be back!
Home for Christmas
Christmas for some, "is the most wonderful time of the year." Others equate Christmas as a time to spend with family and friends. Some celebrate the holiday in traditional ways, i.e. opening gifts, preparing and enjoying a large meal followed by movie viewing or game playing.Others prefer to totally relax during the holiday, avoiding the stress of holiday shopping and gift giving like an unwelcome illness by booking trips to tropical climes to escape the commercialism that Christmas has become.
Christmas, for me, has become a time to endure. A day, I honestly, dread because I don't know how to celebrate the holiday anymore. Things are different now and I can't seem to recognize the holiday in a way I feel comfortable with. In a way that will leave me feeling warm inside, instead of empty and depressed.
Last year I tried to celebrate in a more traditional way with family, gifts and a large dinner. Instead of feeling happy and content the holiday ended in frustration and sadness.
This year, I am trying to approach the holiday through service.
As an alternative to laying around on Christmas day, which always bores the hell out of me, Dad and I are scheduled to play Bingo tomorrow at the Kenwood nursing home. We'll see how that goes.
In the days leading up to Christmas, Dad and I have occupied our time with errands and housework. One thing we accomplished was applying a veneer to my bedroom doors. Now all I need is an antique handle and a sturdy lock.
I have to admit when Dad described the doors to me, prior to my seeing them, I was a little nervous. But as you can see the doors are perfect. I absolutely love them! My Dad has excellent taste when it comes to certain things like women, jewelry and, as it turns out, doors.
Each time I come home, the house looks different, a living organism that continues to evolve in new and exciting ways. I am grateful to have a space of my own to help create and decorate. A room I hope will house many happy memories in future days.
I also hope 2010 will be the year I rescue my belongings from storage and find a place to "put down roots." No matter where that will be, or how I decide to celebrate future holidays, it's nice to know I have a place where I can always come home for Christmas.
Field Photos 12.16.2009
Mandy and I noticed this bar while we were working on Wednesday in Kiln also known as "the Kill," Mississippi. After seeing "The Broke Spoke" I can't imagine how this backwoods Mississippi town got its nickname. 
Ever wondered where the world's largest rocking chair is located? Lucky for us, Mandy and I discovered it on Wednesday while driving Harrison County. If you were looking for an excuse to visit Mississippi, search no further. Seeing the world's largest rocker is something you shouldn't miss.
Field Photo 12.10.09
Photo courtesy M. RichardsonMeg and I spotted this today while surveying. It made us laugh. Hope you enjoy it too.
Field Photo 12.04.09
This afternoon Meg, Hugh and I completed our survey of Joe Avenue, which is a small enclave of bungalows located behind the Wayne Lee supermarket in Pascagoula.I have noticed bungalows, located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, predominately have three roof types: hip, side-gable and front-gable. Jerkinhead roofs are rare on any house or building type along the Gulf Coast, it seems, so we were pleasantly surprised by this house which has an intersecting jerkinhead and side-gable roof with a smaller projecting jerkinhead roof on the main facade. Jerkinheads are also referred to as clipped gables because it looks like the point of the gable has been clipped creating an unfinished look.
Meg, a new member of our team, and I were having a discussion about architectural elements that "turn us on." I confided that houses with three or more dormers, "turn me on." I don't know why but I LOVE dormers. In fact, each time Mandy sees a house with dormers she says, "looks there's Amber's house."
I then asked Meg if there was an architectural element that particularly excited her. She responded, "jerkinhead roofs." It only took us a few seconds to identify the double entendre. Sharing our epiphany with Amanda all she could say was, "Amber you're always a little slow on the uptake." This time, however, I wasn't the only one. Just one of the many reasons why I am so happy Meg has joined our team.
Field Photo 12.03.09
This baby girl rounded the corner just as Meg and I were surveying our second house of the morning. As soon as I saw her bounding toward me I knelt down, threw my arms open and welcomed the shower of licks this little one offered. I have no idea what her name is so I called her Hershey Kiss or sometimes just Kisses. Afraid she would wander into the street Meg and I tried to keep her occupied which was not easy. Surveying requires two hands and a good measure of concentration, neither of which were possible with this sweet thing biting our pant legs and pulling at our jacket sleeves. I have several small holes in my RL sweatpants as a reminder of our time together.
She stayed with us until it was time for us to break for lunch. Afraid she would follow my car into the street, I ran her to a nearby home and asked the resident to distract her while we drove away.
Thinking she would be gone by the time we returned we were pleasantly surprised to find her waiting for us. The fun ended when a neighbor who knows the owner spyed her near my car. We gladly turned her over to a warm, safe home, relieved she would be safe from street traffic but regretful we couldn't play with her longer. Perhaps we'll see her again tomorrow.
Field Photo 12.02.09
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This afternoon as we were surveying Pascagoula Street we were approached by Mr. Daviddson a native son of Mississippi. Mr. Daviddson will be 90 in January and has been married to the love of his life, Annie, for 64 years. Mr. Daviddson spoke to us twice while we were surveying, praising his wife each time for being an excellent manager, meaning she didn't "go on shopping sprees," a good cook and a skilled housekeeper. In addition to being a charmer, he referred to Meg and I as "Suga", "Darling" and "Sweetheart" repeatedly, he had a Southern accent that I could listen to forever.
Best wishes to Mr. Daviddson and his lovely bride Annie. May they defy the odds and enjoy many more years of wedded bliss together.
Dear Mom
Tonight, as I was flipping through the channels, I noticed the CNN Heroes ceremony was on. I'm not sure if you knew this, I'm sure I never told you, but, Mom, you are one of my heroes. Not my one and only but definitely a hero. I watched you devote your time and energy to care for invalids and the terminally ill with compassion and tenderness. I will never forget how you approached your patients with love and concern. I often teased that you cared more for them than for us, especially when we were sick, but honestly, as I watched you work bringing comfort to others, I could not have been more proud.
I know you hoped I would pursue a career in the medical profession but I just couldn't. I'm not as strong or as compassionate as you were. I feel so honored to have witnessed those intimate moments. Through your example, you set a standard I try to emulate in my own field. I am only sorry more people will not have the opportunity to see you in action.
You are my Mother, my friend, and forever my hero.
Thoroughbreds
Thoroughbreds
During my forty years of service to my fellow citizens, whether in the military or working in disaster response and recovery, I have been blessed with the opportunity of working with and becoming friends with so many wonderful human beings. After working and sharing time with these extra-ordinary individuals my personal conclusion is these people are far more than a product of a good childhood or having great mentors.
I believe these individuals are born with a spirit that creates a strong need for helping others that defies description. I have seen this time after time during my career, but none more than a group of individuals from FEMA Region on IV who always stood ready and answered the call regardless of the time, day or night. These individuals would drop whatever they were doing and immediately travel, by whatever means necessary, (often at night ), to be on site the following day and prepared to conduct Joint Damage Assessments with State and Local first responders. They never hesitated to respond to the call to serve. They also made significant contributions during FEMA recovery and temporary housing missions. Most of these individuals had a long career of service to helping others before coming to FEMA. Many had retired but the strong need to help others was still there.
Former and current members of the FEMA family have made many sacrifices in responding to the needs of our fellow citizens' call for help. However, we all can identify some unique co- workers that stand above the crowd. I like to think of them as thoroughbreds, always answering the call, regardless how tired they may have been. There are a large number of these thoroughbreds within our FEMA family.
Today, I would like to express my personal appreciation and gratitude to some dear friends and special individuals who have spent a lifetime of service to their fellow citizens. These individuals are Jack McLeod, Walter Davis and Gene Pope.
Walter Davis and Gene Pope were retired firefighters before joining the FEMA family.
Jack McLeod retired from serving his fellow citizens of the State of Alabama. Just as you can’t stop a thoroughbred's desire to run, you could not stop these individuals' desire to serve their fellow citizens. These gentlemen are three of my favorite Thoroughbreds.
May God bless all my FEMA family during this holiday season. May God bless and protect our troops and this wonderful country that we live in.
May God bless all my FEMA family during this holiday season. May God bless and protect our troops and this wonderful country that we live in.
Love to All-
Don Kidd
Don Kidd
Field Photos 11.18.09
Wednesday, November 18th we returned to Willow Street in Pascagoula to survey. Unlike many areas along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Pascagoula continues to retain many of the large oak trees that were present prior to Hurricane Katrina. The Spanish Moss, characteristic of oak trees that grow in the South, hangs abundantly from the trees' branches, creating a sense of mystery and romance on this small suburban street. Amanda explained that the roots of this oak created a "fairy seat." Thinking this was a great photo opportunity we decided to document the moment.
This sign was posted on the exterior of a home individually listed in The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Allow me to identify, just in case it isn't clear, the discrepancies between my description and the sign. First, it's the National REGISTER not Registry. Second, it's HISTORIC, meaning the "AL" is unnecessary. Third, multiple building types are listed in the National Register. The Register is not limited to homes. For that reason, it is referred to as the National Register of Historic PLACES.As Amanda points out, the locals often substitute locally devised lingo for actual terminology. This is an excellent example of such behavior.
Prior to breaking for lunch we surveyed a beautiful historic residence. Although we analyze and document structures everyday it is rare we are able to see the structures' interiors. Whenever we are invited inside we eagerly accept. Seeing the interior of a structure enables us to understand the building plan and the possible evolution of alterations over time. Entering the antique store, one of the first things I noticed was this bed. Custom designed for a woman in New Orleans, the bed remained in her family until she passed away. Her son sold the bed to the antique store and they are willing to part with it for a mere 10K.The bed of my dreams, a dear, sweet, loving friend of mine pointed out, will continue to remain so, at that price. If only...
The owner assured me they had a great lay-away program. The only problem is by the time I pay for the bed I will be so old I will only be able to sleep in it a few times before...well... you know. A girl can always dream. Looks like this girl will be dreaming in any bed but the one pictured here.
A Non-Vocal Serenade..
but sincere just the same."Yes, it's true (yes, it's true) I am happy to be stuck with you,
Yes, it's true (yes, it's true) I'm so happy to be stuck with you,
'Cause I can see, (I can see) that you're happy to be stuck with me."
Field Photo of the Day
As an architectural historian I have the privilege of working outdoors a lot! Not only is it a nice break from the office but it provides many opportunities to explore areas and communities I would not become familiar with otherwise. In an effort to document my time in Biloxi I have decided to post a photo of something interesting we see during our survey each day. After discussing my idea with Amanda and Hugh they agreed to help me identify interesting images to share on this blog.Our current survey area is located in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Since we work outdoors our work schedule is often determined by the weather. We have been fortunate to have a pretty dry and mild Fall, enabling us to work in the field a lot lately. Today while surveying a home on Lake Avenue Amanda pointed out the banana tree pictured above. It is located on Grove Street, which I failed to notice the previous Friday when we surveyed the area. The tree's fruit I am accustomed to seeing but I have never, until today, noticed the flowers a banana tree produces. Not only are they lovely but a welcome surprise to someone, like me, who is unfamiliar with the foliage common to the Coast.
Gah!!
Typically I'm anit-Oprah. Not for any real reason, I just don't dig her style. However, last week at work I was really bored one night and I cam across this article...
in this magazine...
I'm on this 'budget' kick still, having not worked for the last year, and the last time I got my hair colored the total tab (cut and color) was $230. I will admit that when I paid that much I got color I loved, worked for my face and a great cut. It was just too painful to pay on a regular basis. The trade off (discount service providers) has never proven to be a good idea for me. The time I last used a cheap colorist I left with big, white chunks in my dark brown hair. Not good. Not good at all.
Since I have four days off and lots of laundry to do, I decided to give this a shot. Turns out, I think I've found my forever solution!
Here are pictures of the results:
I'm thinking my roots are still a little darker than I'd like compared to the rest of my hair. Next time I'll give them a bit more processing time on their own.
What did I use? 2 L'Oreal kits: (1) lightest auburn and (1) intense red. I did choose to follow the instructions in the article for adding my own highlights (which is the point of the thrid picture) and for that I used Clairol HairPainting Kit for blond/med brown.
The highlights were kind of a pain (you color the rest, rinse, dry and then do those) but I don't think I'd go w/o them. The color would be too flat.
I will say I wasted a TON of product. I used maybe a 16th of the highlighting product and about 1/4 of the dye. That was disturbing to me. But overall, I'm happy with the results. It's kind of worth buying the magazine for, though I hate to admit it. The tips are great!
'Nana Oat Bread
In an effort to loose weight I joined Weight Watchers on Thursday, October 8th. My meetings are every Thursday evening. It seems many people are familiar with the Weight Watcher system. Although this is my first time attending as an adult, I remember attending meetings with my Mother as a little girl.
Before each meeting begins, the members are encouraged to "weigh-in." My first weigh-in was last Thursday, the 15th. Losing between .5 to 2 pounds a week is considered healthy weight loss. I am happy/disappointed to report my first week I lost .6 pounds. My leader suggested I eat more lean protein.
It's my understanding there are several programs within Weight Watchers. I opted for the point system. Based on my current weight and height I am allowed 21 points a day. Initially, I thought this would be impossible but I've found it is more challenging to eat "green/filling" foods that will fulfill my point requirements daily than it is to limit myself to 21 points. Believe me, 21 points may not seem like a lot of food but it is.
I love to bake and recently made a goal to try a new recipe each weekend. When I joined Weight Watchers I wasn't sure how I was going to reach my domestic goal while trying to meet my weight loss goal. Imagine my surprise when I discovered the Internet is inundated with many Weight Watcher friendly recipes that include the number of points each serving equals.
So, in an effort to make healthier food choices I have been researching these Weight Watcher recipes online. I found a 4 point Banana Oat Bread recipe at http://www.laaloosh.com/2009/01/06/weight-watchers-oatmeal-banana-bread-recipe/
I took a photo for those interested in seeing the finished product. I rarely will try a recipe if a photo is not included.
Weight Watchers Oatmeal Banana Bread Recipe
1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unpacked brown sugar
1/2 tsp table salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp allspice
3 tsp canola oil
1 large egg, beaten
2 medium egg whites, beaten
3 large bananas, ripe
1 cup uncooked old fashioned oats
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, stir together dry ingredients. Add oil and eggs; mix thoroughly.In a smaller bowl, mash bananas with a potato masher or fork. Add bananas and oatmeal to batter.Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray. Pour batter into pan and bake until top of loaf is firm to touch, 45 to 55 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool in pan for 5 minutes. Flip out and cool on a wire rack for another 10 minutes. Slice loaf into 10 equally sized slices.
Serving size= 1 slice
Each serving = 4 Weight Watchers Points
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