Poor Maggie

Sigh… we were away all weekend and came home to the lovely smell of cat pee. I can’t figure out if it is an old area, or if Maggie wet somewhere new. Hopefully the humidity just brought out the smell of an old spot. I feel guilty leaving her, though usually she does fine. Watch, someday I’m going to be one of those crazy old ladies spoiling her kitties with cat trees and other cool gifts for her pet. Maggie would probably love it! Maybe someday…

Lake George!

So last night Drew and I were talking about going to Lake George for a couple days in July. Originally we were going to skip it this year (we usually go every year), but right now it’s probably the best and easiest getaway for us. Earlier this year we toyed with driving up to Quebec. We got the boys their passports and I renewed my own passport, but with the price of gas I just don’t think it would be wise to spend all that money. When the boys are both a little bit older it’s something we will certainly do, but for now, the Adirondacks will suit them just fine. Not to mention, it’s less than 2 hours away! Seems a lot of the hotels up there are offering decent discounts this summer. I wonder if reservations are down? I’m looking forward to it though. We always enjoy ourselves there!

Vacation Planning

Well, the big news around these parts is… drumroll please… on Friday the sale of the wine shop was made final! It’s bittersweet to be sure, but overall a huge relief. I am so looking forward to really enjoying the summer. I plan on doing a lot of reading, knitting, cooking out, and staying close to home. We’ll more than likely go somewhere, but not that far. I’ve been looking at Hudson Valley travel guides, and trying to plan an “at home” vacation — basically day trips within the area. I think it would be fun to explore some of the historical sites around here that we haven’t had the opportunity to visit. It will be so much fun!

You Can’t Take It With You

Unless, of course, you have one of my favorite little gadgets: a compact flash device! I swear, these are the best things ever invented. Whereas I used to e-mail documents back and forth to myself, now I just throw them onto a compact flash device and it makes me life so much easier. So thank you, thank you to whoever came up with these! (And I used to think ZIP drives were cool — remember those?) LOL!

Musings on Gas

I can’t believe that I am actually happy to find gas for around $4.00. Forget about under $4.00! I know that the massive increases over the past few months have really had an effect on our driving habits. I try to consolidate trips and I rarely go out somewhere “just to get out.” I can’t help but wonder if celebrities or high-level executives are feeling the pinch, too. I mean, do the people who take private jet charter flights feel any guilt? Will they start flying first-class on regular airlines? I would hope so, but I’m not sure they will do much to make a difference.

Who Needs Weight Loss Drugs?

Seriously, who needs Phentermine when you’ve got a bunch of stress in your life? I swear, I have barely felt like eating at all lately, just waiting for a few things to get straightened out. I know they will, but… ugh. Until I get that final resolution I know that I’m going to be short-tempered and without an appetite. Argh.

Father’s Day Gift Ideas

Have you found that perfect gift for dad yet? I have my husband’s gift ordered, and a fun day planned out this year. But if you still are not sure what to do, here are a few ideas to get you going:

• A bottle of nice bourbon doesn’t have to break the bank! You can find a nice selection of bourbons between $20-$40. If he’s a country music fan, you might consider getting him a bottle of Old Whiskey River ($25.99) — Willie Nelson’s bourbon. The packaging is cute too — it even comes with a guitar pick.
• Is Dad still using that ratty old wallet from over 10 years ago? Why not treat him to a leather wallet from Johnston and Murphy. They have some very attractive wallets at fair prices. If you wanted, you could even stick a gift card to his favorite store inside!
• A tree or bush for your yard is another nice idea. As the saying goes, a man’s house is his castle. He could enjoy a special tree year after year.

Of course the best gift is just spending time as a family! Treat Dad to a special breakfast or a BBQ dinner outside. He’s sure to love it!