One's junk is another's treasure

Over a week ago I helped my boyfriend’s family go through his grandparent’s house to clear it out. After going through the entire basement we filled two large-sized dumpsters and made several different piles in the house and garage: one for donation, one to sift through, one for electronics and chemicals to dispose of properly, and one for a garage or estate sale. We had about ten people in all, and it took us nearly six hours to clear the basement alone. ‘Why, you ask?’ because his grandparent’s used the basement for the last 20 years purely for storage (and they are moving into assisted living). Silly, I know. It could have easily be used to finish two more bedrooms and a bathroom, or one bedroom and bath with an entertainment area. I wonder if 20 years ago they purposely decided to keep the basement for storage, or if it just became that way.

Anyways, during the cleaning I noticed many neat, old items such as old, old photographs of great grandparents, the grandfather's high school diploma, lots of retro clothes, etc. And when we were finished I came away with some lovely, enjoyable pieces for my apartment!

Set of two foldable lawn chairs for my balcony.

Green vase!

A giraffe figure :)

And, an old blender. I've been wanting one and this will definitely do until Christmas!

Feasting!

I am a turkey, stuffing, gravy, potato, casserole, bread and apple pie affectionista. Kitchens are thankful for the gift of great smells and uses, and we are affectionate with full bellies and great company.

Thanksgiving is one of the best days in my calendar. I clear it of all to-do's and get ready to just relax, converse and laugh with lots of family. Since I've been dating Dustin holidays have become even more enjoyable. We have the luxury of both of our families living in the Twin Cities so we never have to decide on one over the other. AND, we don't need to compromise time spent with each side. My family celebrates during daylight and his, the evening. Two feasts in one day - but absolutely nothing to complain about.

Lots of thanking to be given. Bless and be blessed.

Partial weekend recap

Life's been a little crazy...or, maybe I'm just a little crazy.

Date night was wonderful on Friday night. We went to Benihana in Maple Grove and had some of the best Japanese food I've had in a long time. Lots of great seafood, fresh sushi and filet mignon. Mmmmm....

Then we headed on over to AMC with our pre-ordered tickets to stand in the largest line I've ever stood in for a movie. For some crazy reason that I am failing to recall we decided to go on the opening night. I’ve never waited in a line for a movie before, haven’t been crazy enough to go on an opening night, especially not for a teenage drama-action packed movie with tons and tons of screaming girls. Never will I do that again. The movie met my expectations; the atmosphere was just a little nightmarish. The screaming in the theater is still ringing in my ears...