After nearly ten years, I've fired my household helper, Rosy. The last few years the quality of her work has gone downhill. I think it's because of the set up we had. She would come every other Thursday while I was at work. I agreed to this because at the time, she had another house to do in the afternoon. She said she would come early, 8:00ish, and then go on to her other house.
That worked for awhile, but there were times I'd come home to find no work had been done and a phone message waiting for me. There were always excuses but I let them go. Rosy has a daughter she is solely supporting and when it came to things she needed to do with/for her, I gladly stepped aside.
But - - - it's always those buts that get me. As I previously wrote, one day this past summer I came home to find a stranger working in my house. He turned out to be her brother. About a month ago, I rearranged the furniture in my living room to find dust bunnies almost bigger than my cats. I don't think the couch was ever pulled away from the wall for vacuuming. Things somehow didn't get put back after she dusted and things that didn't belong were left behind.
It was a difficult decision because I really care about Rosy, but the dissatisfaction I've been feeling for more than a year takes front seat. I'm not overly fond of cleaning my house myself, but I'll try it. I didn't burn bridges. She said if there were special times I needed help, she would help out.
If I break it down over a period of several days, I think I can do it. I can vacuum the downstairs on Friday evening, while I do the laundry. Saturdays, I can do the upstairs bathroom and vacuum the bedrooms. And on Sunday afternoon, I can vacuum the stairs.
We'll see how it works out.
God bless you all.
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Sunday, October 22, 2006
The Loss of a Special Friend.....
My dear friend Karen is grieving the loss of her cat, Grady. Grady had special meaning to me because I had a gray, Maine Coone cat named Grady, short for Graystoke's Blue Mood. Grady left me after only 4 1/2 years. He had an uncurable blood disease and it broke my heart.
Nearly 15 years ago, Karen's young son David, brought home a gray kitten he found wobbling across a busy roadway and begged to keep him. Karen being an animal lover and unable to say no to her little boy said OK and the kitten became part of the family. When Karen asked David what he was going to name his new pet, David answered "Grady", because I really loved Banana's Grady.
Karen was sensitive to the fact that I had just lost my Grady and told David it would be OK with her, but David would have to ask me if it was OK with me. So one sunny afternoon my phone rang and this little 10 year old voice said to me "Banana? This is David and I want to ask you a question". Of course I said yes. I told David that I was honored that he would want his cat named after my Grady.
Yesterday Karen called me to tell me she had taken Grady to the vet because he had lost the use of his hind legs and he was screaming in pain. It appears he had had a blood clot for sometime. In hindsight she recalls that he had difficulty jumping on the bed or couch. She thought it was just old age setting in.
The vet said they could administer blood thinners but it was unlikely he would regain use of his hind legs. They could make him comfortable but she could not guarantee that this would not happen again. He might produce another clot, causing the same problem.
Karen was torn but knew what she had to do. It broke her heart because he had been a part of her family for a long time. She has buried him in a little clearing with her other two family members - Furry Face (a Maine Coon) and Persephany (a black barn cat. I may have messed up the spelling of her name.)
Losing a beloved pet is a very hard thing but I believe Grady is chasing rabbits with my Grady, Jake #1 and Susie#1. There they know no pain and will never grow old again.
Rest in peace sweet friend.
Nearly 15 years ago, Karen's young son David, brought home a gray kitten he found wobbling across a busy roadway and begged to keep him. Karen being an animal lover and unable to say no to her little boy said OK and the kitten became part of the family. When Karen asked David what he was going to name his new pet, David answered "Grady", because I really loved Banana's Grady.
Karen was sensitive to the fact that I had just lost my Grady and told David it would be OK with her, but David would have to ask me if it was OK with me. So one sunny afternoon my phone rang and this little 10 year old voice said to me "Banana? This is David and I want to ask you a question". Of course I said yes. I told David that I was honored that he would want his cat named after my Grady.
Yesterday Karen called me to tell me she had taken Grady to the vet because he had lost the use of his hind legs and he was screaming in pain. It appears he had had a blood clot for sometime. In hindsight she recalls that he had difficulty jumping on the bed or couch. She thought it was just old age setting in.
The vet said they could administer blood thinners but it was unlikely he would regain use of his hind legs. They could make him comfortable but she could not guarantee that this would not happen again. He might produce another clot, causing the same problem.
Karen was torn but knew what she had to do. It broke her heart because he had been a part of her family for a long time. She has buried him in a little clearing with her other two family members - Furry Face (a Maine Coon) and Persephany (a black barn cat. I may have messed up the spelling of her name.)
Losing a beloved pet is a very hard thing but I believe Grady is chasing rabbits with my Grady, Jake #1 and Susie#1. There they know no pain and will never grow old again.
Rest in peace sweet friend.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Another quiet week
This week wasn't bad. First three days were hectic getting the boss lady ready to go to PA to give her quarterly report to OPM. I worked on her Powerpoint briefing for nearly a week and must say, this is the smoothest one has moved along. Although I took it to the wire, there were very few changes. We printed 20 copies of the 21 page brief and sent her on her way. I had Wednesday afternoon, Thursday and Friday to myself.
Last Sunday was Slavica's birthday so on Monday we had a little celebration for her and one of the admins whose birthday was Monday. We got a big cake, hid it in a corner and with everybody gathered, sang the traditional "Happy Birthday" song. I had bought several garlands, a Happy Birthday sign and a child's paper crown and decorated her office door before she arrived. She does not like attention but I think she was tickled that somebody had fussed. The blabbermouths in the Assignments section ratted that I had done it. :o) She has warned me that my birthday is coming and that paybacks are in order.
While stringing the garlands, I had to step up on a chair and when I lifted my right leg, something snapped. I wasn't able to apply any weight on the leg to stand on the chair. I had to use the left. I did hang all the decorations but by noon, I was in agony. By the time I got home I couldn't get away from it. I couldn't sit, stand or lie down. David paid me my usual Monday appointment and when he arrived he put the table down and I was almost in tears. I said "Please put the table up - I need help now". He said "Oh my gosh, you're in pain". He worked on me for about 45 minutes and did free up the bone on bone pain. but there were a lot of knots in my leg from the muscle spasms. It's been a very long time since I've been that tied up. With David's skill and patience, he has helped me manage my pain for several years now.
Yesterday BJ and I had dinner together and then went shopping. The church mission team is returning to Russia in 3 weeks and I wanted to get some clothes for Lida, my 18 year old 'daughter'. We are corresponding weekly by email. She goes to a free internet cafe to send her messages and I use the online translator to read them. At one point, she asked me if it was true that I had said she was like my daughter. I told her it was true and I felt we had a bond between each other, from the first day I met her. As the messages keep on coming, she is now writing to Mama and that tickles me. My prayer is that she gets a chance for a better way of life than in Ivanovo.
Fall truly is here. There is a stretch of parkway on the way to my office and the leaves are turning now. Yellow, orange and red. Very, very pretty. I want to try to get to the farm market this weekend to find some Nittany apples. I was first introduced to them about 20 years ago by my first AA sponsor. They are crisp, juicy and delicious and always remind me of a new start.
Something must be wrong with me - nothing to complain about again.
God bless you all.
Last Sunday was Slavica's birthday so on Monday we had a little celebration for her and one of the admins whose birthday was Monday. We got a big cake, hid it in a corner and with everybody gathered, sang the traditional "Happy Birthday" song. I had bought several garlands, a Happy Birthday sign and a child's paper crown and decorated her office door before she arrived. She does not like attention but I think she was tickled that somebody had fussed. The blabbermouths in the Assignments section ratted that I had done it. :o) She has warned me that my birthday is coming and that paybacks are in order.
While stringing the garlands, I had to step up on a chair and when I lifted my right leg, something snapped. I wasn't able to apply any weight on the leg to stand on the chair. I had to use the left. I did hang all the decorations but by noon, I was in agony. By the time I got home I couldn't get away from it. I couldn't sit, stand or lie down. David paid me my usual Monday appointment and when he arrived he put the table down and I was almost in tears. I said "Please put the table up - I need help now". He said "Oh my gosh, you're in pain". He worked on me for about 45 minutes and did free up the bone on bone pain. but there were a lot of knots in my leg from the muscle spasms. It's been a very long time since I've been that tied up. With David's skill and patience, he has helped me manage my pain for several years now.
Yesterday BJ and I had dinner together and then went shopping. The church mission team is returning to Russia in 3 weeks and I wanted to get some clothes for Lida, my 18 year old 'daughter'. We are corresponding weekly by email. She goes to a free internet cafe to send her messages and I use the online translator to read them. At one point, she asked me if it was true that I had said she was like my daughter. I told her it was true and I felt we had a bond between each other, from the first day I met her. As the messages keep on coming, she is now writing to Mama and that tickles me. My prayer is that she gets a chance for a better way of life than in Ivanovo.
Fall truly is here. There is a stretch of parkway on the way to my office and the leaves are turning now. Yellow, orange and red. Very, very pretty. I want to try to get to the farm market this weekend to find some Nittany apples. I was first introduced to them about 20 years ago by my first AA sponsor. They are crisp, juicy and delicious and always remind me of a new start.
Something must be wrong with me - nothing to complain about again.
God bless you all.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Fall is here, I think
Today was the first cold snap of the season. The weather guessers on Channel 4 said it was down to 32 degrees out our way. It was chilly this morning when I left for the office at zero dark thirty. It was also a great reason to wear my new fall outfit that I ordered on Monday. (All day Fashion Day on QVC)
Work was OK this week. Accomplished a few things and several changes were made in the office. Added a new manager, demoted an old manager......more of the same. Who in the world knows what's going on? I guess the real question is Who cares?
I've been OK this past week. Feeling fine and happy to have heard from Lida, my 18 year old Russian daughter. She has finally started to call me Mama. It tickles me because she is the one who would not accept outsiders or trust the Americans. I am very fond of this gal and hope she has a chance at a decent life. I'd like to see her get out of Ivanovo because the city has nothing to offer. If she continues her education and moves out, maybe to Vladimir, another small city, she can make a decent living. My real wish is that I could bring her here for a visit. If that ever happened, she wouldn't want to go back, I'm sure.
BJ and JC get back from their trip to the Outer Banks. I have missed her.
No more to add this week.
Please note - I didn't complain once. :o)
God bless you all.
Work was OK this week. Accomplished a few things and several changes were made in the office. Added a new manager, demoted an old manager......more of the same. Who in the world knows what's going on? I guess the real question is Who cares?
I've been OK this past week. Feeling fine and happy to have heard from Lida, my 18 year old Russian daughter. She has finally started to call me Mama. It tickles me because she is the one who would not accept outsiders or trust the Americans. I am very fond of this gal and hope she has a chance at a decent life. I'd like to see her get out of Ivanovo because the city has nothing to offer. If she continues her education and moves out, maybe to Vladimir, another small city, she can make a decent living. My real wish is that I could bring her here for a visit. If that ever happened, she wouldn't want to go back, I'm sure.
BJ and JC get back from their trip to the Outer Banks. I have missed her.
No more to add this week.
Please note - I didn't complain once. :o)
God bless you all.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Out Of Africa
Or should I say "Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh my"....
My friend David has done me a great injustice. He sent me the link to a site in Africa. It is a waterhole that has a webcam trained on the landscape, day and night. There is something hypnotic about looking at a screen full of nothing, but something may come by any minute. There is sound so you can hear the animals approaching. Of course there are the sounds of the crickets, frogs and hyenas which are just fascinating.
I've spent last evening and the better part of today, watching the animals come and go. I saw some baboons, water buffalo and a lot of different birds. The owner of the site was panning the camera all around so I could see what was in the brush. I was hoping a lion would come along but no such luck.
It's night there now, but I see an occasional hyena wander by and there are still night birds. The prettiest time of day is dawn when the sounds of daybreak fill the air.
Thank heavens we had a lousy rainy day today so I didn't totally miss the day.
Thanks a lot David.
God bless you all.
My friend David has done me a great injustice. He sent me the link to a site in Africa. It is a waterhole that has a webcam trained on the landscape, day and night. There is something hypnotic about looking at a screen full of nothing, but something may come by any minute. There is sound so you can hear the animals approaching. Of course there are the sounds of the crickets, frogs and hyenas which are just fascinating.
I've spent last evening and the better part of today, watching the animals come and go. I saw some baboons, water buffalo and a lot of different birds. The owner of the site was panning the camera all around so I could see what was in the brush. I was hoping a lion would come along but no such luck.
It's night there now, but I see an occasional hyena wander by and there are still night birds. The prettiest time of day is dawn when the sounds of daybreak fill the air.
Thank heavens we had a lousy rainy day today so I didn't totally miss the day.
Thanks a lot David.
God bless you all.
Friday, October 06, 2006
I'm On My Soap Box Today
With the quiet dignity of the Amish tradition, families in Nickel Mines, PA buried their beloved daughters, dead at the hands of an outsider. One of 'the English'.
As these people mourned, they stuck to their traditions and their beliefs, yet what did 'the English' do? They barraged their privacy with TV trucks, cameras and satellite dishes. These sweet people deserve this time to be left alone.
Shame on you Media!!! It's bad enough to see the media blitz when a so called star emerges on the streets of a city. They are nearly run down by photographers' cars and new mothers are cornered like animals in a trap trying to protect their young from prying cameras.
As a society can't they understand that there are some very private things that other people don't want to see?
Let these people alone. I, for one, am embarrased to see how this quiet community was turned into a media parking lot by outsiders.
God bless you Amish families and I'm so sorry for your losses.
As these people mourned, they stuck to their traditions and their beliefs, yet what did 'the English' do? They barraged their privacy with TV trucks, cameras and satellite dishes. These sweet people deserve this time to be left alone.
Shame on you Media!!! It's bad enough to see the media blitz when a so called star emerges on the streets of a city. They are nearly run down by photographers' cars and new mothers are cornered like animals in a trap trying to protect their young from prying cameras.
As a society can't they understand that there are some very private things that other people don't want to see?
Let these people alone. I, for one, am embarrased to see how this quiet community was turned into a media parking lot by outsiders.
God bless you Amish families and I'm so sorry for your losses.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
A little better today
It was a lovely day today. Sunshine and in the 70s. A perfect fall day.
Today at our weekly company meeting, OMNI Cafe, I was surprised to receive a recognition award for a suggestion I had sent in, over 2 months ago. I suggested, that with all the talented people we have on board, we have an annual talent show. I was presented with a certificate, an OMNI pen and - - - you got it - - - a challenge. We can have the show, if I organize it.
I sent out an email company wide saying before I accept the challenge, I wanted to see how many people would be interested in participating. By close of business, I've only receive 4 bites. I'll wait a few more days and then send out a blurb again on Monday. I really think it would be a lot of fun. I said even if we get only 6 people, at 5 minutes performance time each, we have a half hour show and I don't think for the first effort the population will want to sit through more than that.
I hope it works. It has restored my interest in the company.
Oh by the way, I received a bite on one of the resumes I sent out last week. I'll call tomorrow and get more info.
I look forward to this evening. NCIS is on and I get to see LEROY. (Oh be still my heart) YUM.
God bless you all.
Today at our weekly company meeting, OMNI Cafe, I was surprised to receive a recognition award for a suggestion I had sent in, over 2 months ago. I suggested, that with all the talented people we have on board, we have an annual talent show. I was presented with a certificate, an OMNI pen and - - - you got it - - - a challenge. We can have the show, if I organize it.
I sent out an email company wide saying before I accept the challenge, I wanted to see how many people would be interested in participating. By close of business, I've only receive 4 bites. I'll wait a few more days and then send out a blurb again on Monday. I really think it would be a lot of fun. I said even if we get only 6 people, at 5 minutes performance time each, we have a half hour show and I don't think for the first effort the population will want to sit through more than that.
I hope it works. It has restored my interest in the company.
Oh by the way, I received a bite on one of the resumes I sent out last week. I'll call tomorrow and get more info.
I look forward to this evening. NCIS is on and I get to see LEROY. (Oh be still my heart) YUM.
God bless you all.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Dull is the word....
for my life lately.
It has been brought to my attention that I haven't posted for a couple of weeks.
Several things have happened that I must work through before I can intelligently post so I will just say that I am OK, not terrific, but OK.
When I am sane, I'll post more.
God bless you all.
It has been brought to my attention that I haven't posted for a couple of weeks.
Several things have happened that I must work through before I can intelligently post so I will just say that I am OK, not terrific, but OK.
When I am sane, I'll post more.
God bless you all.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Gloomy Weekend - again.....
Once again it's overcast, drizzly and a bit chilly. I hope Fall hasn't come early and that we get a little bit of Indian Summer. Cold weather just doesn't make it to the top of my list.
This past week has been hectic at the office. Losing two work days put me behind and there was a time when I thought I would love to change my name to "Mommy". Everybody seemed to be calling "Joanna". The boss lady was in back to back to back meetings as usual. I really wonder if the executives realize just how counter productive it is to have a department 'leader' unavailable for such an extended period of time. There were several of my coworkers who, as I did, had questions to be answered before projects could be completed. Most were time sensitive and with her absences, were late. Don't look to good on us.
I'm still in a bit of a funk after coming back from my trip. It left me with a lot of food for thought. Of course my relatives are there and most would be delighted to have me move back. I could sell my house here and with the financial gain, buy a very nice place there, most likely with money to spare. But I don't like the cold or the constant humidity generated by Lake Michigan. The first day there was a beautiful day - high 70s and sunny. But it was short lived and it turned cold, overcast and rainy Saturday and Sunday.
I would have to re-establish a social circle, be it in a senior group or church group. I would miss my own family of friends of 40 years that I have here. They are one of the main reasons I haven't moved south for retirement. I sometimes feel I'm too old to relocate and make new friends. Yet I know in my heart of hearts that I can't continue to work forever. One of these days the body is going to tell me it can't get up at 4:30AM anymore and put in 9 busy hours. I think this is one of the reasons why I've been so skittish this past week. I worry about what I'm going to do. But as my friend Steve said, I don't have to make this decision today, so quit driving myself nuts.
Today I'll get caught up on chores around the house and do a bit of grocery shopping. Only thing left in the house is a can of enchilada sauce and some butter. Can't do much with that.
Hopefully the sun will shine tomorrow and I'll be better.
God bless you all.
This past week has been hectic at the office. Losing two work days put me behind and there was a time when I thought I would love to change my name to "Mommy". Everybody seemed to be calling "Joanna". The boss lady was in back to back to back meetings as usual. I really wonder if the executives realize just how counter productive it is to have a department 'leader' unavailable for such an extended period of time. There were several of my coworkers who, as I did, had questions to be answered before projects could be completed. Most were time sensitive and with her absences, were late. Don't look to good on us.
I'm still in a bit of a funk after coming back from my trip. It left me with a lot of food for thought. Of course my relatives are there and most would be delighted to have me move back. I could sell my house here and with the financial gain, buy a very nice place there, most likely with money to spare. But I don't like the cold or the constant humidity generated by Lake Michigan. The first day there was a beautiful day - high 70s and sunny. But it was short lived and it turned cold, overcast and rainy Saturday and Sunday.
I would have to re-establish a social circle, be it in a senior group or church group. I would miss my own family of friends of 40 years that I have here. They are one of the main reasons I haven't moved south for retirement. I sometimes feel I'm too old to relocate and make new friends. Yet I know in my heart of hearts that I can't continue to work forever. One of these days the body is going to tell me it can't get up at 4:30AM anymore and put in 9 busy hours. I think this is one of the reasons why I've been so skittish this past week. I worry about what I'm going to do. But as my friend Steve said, I don't have to make this decision today, so quit driving myself nuts.
Today I'll get caught up on chores around the house and do a bit of grocery shopping. Only thing left in the house is a can of enchilada sauce and some butter. Can't do much with that.
Hopefully the sun will shine tomorrow and I'll be better.
God bless you all.
Monday, September 11, 2006
A Walk Down Memory Lane
This was my High School 50th reunion weekend. I'm very glad I made the trip for many reasons.
I had a chance to visit my cousins. There was a small gathering of some I haven't seen in 21+ years and some I've not yet met. My cousin Dennis was my best friend growing up. We are 6 months apart in age and we went to school together. Ten years ago he was stricken with cancer and lost his larynx. He talks through an amplifying aparatus which works quite well. But he get a bit frustrated with it because we are Polish and are loud. In a group of 15 people, all talking at once, he is a voice not heard too well. Saying goodbye was hard because I most likely won't see him again. I don't think I'll go back again.
I drove by the old neighborhoods. Winchester Street where I lived until I was almost 10 has changed. Most of the old houses are still there, but is really bad shape. The house in which we lived is still there. Painted white but divided. What was a duplex now houses 4 apartments. I sat in my rental car across the street and tried to see that little girl playing in the front yard. The hedges are gone, the lilacs are gone and so is the big tree on the side that gave us so much shade. I was glad I went.
I also drove by the last house we lived in, on Burdick Avenue, before my Dad and I moved in 1965. The woman who owns it now, drove in as I was sitting, looking and I walked up the driveway and apologized for the intrusion. She was quite gracious once she knew who I was and showed me around the yard and even offered to take me inside. I declined because I knew it would upset me more than I already was. I spent about 20 minutes with her and she thanked me for stopping as I left. I was glad I stopped.
The next morning I took the tour of Pulaski High School with about 10 of my classmates. The building was fairly new when we attended there. The marble floors were always polished and the halls were kept clean. Now, any breakable surface is covered with grating or wire and most doors have bars on them. Each hallway, at the stairs, has a security door which is kept locked during class. Unless you have a special pass, you don't leave the corridor where your current classroom is located. This made me very sad and a little bit mad. 9What kind of kids are we raising???) We saw our swimming pool, the gym, the cafeteria, the study halls and our home rooms. We ended the tour in the library where they had a gallon of Leon's Frozen Custard. Leon's is the drive-in, located across the street from the school, that the TV series 'Happy Days' is based.
Later that evening, I went to the dinner. There were 23 of the students (out of a class of 61) in attendance, some with spouses, some without. It was good to see them all and hear what they have done in the past 50 years. Most are retired. Most have aged. I was aghast when I saw some of the gals. Several look in their 80s. I guess life was hard. In comparison either I'm well preserved or I've not faced many hardships because I can say, I looked good. Even the majority of the men have aged. Balding and what hair is left is white. Many hunched over, many with liver spots......Geesch. I am thinking is this going to hit me too!
A couple of the kids I knew at Jr. High were also there. We were in 7th and 8th grade together. I had forgotten that part of my life. There were several snapshots taken outside that school and we look like we are the case of 'Grease'. Yes, we actually did look like that LOL One of the guys, LeRoy, married one of the gals from high school and have been married for 43 years. When she saw me she said "My husband has been talking about you for years". I laughed and let it go. In two other conversations she brought it up again so I asked HER "And what has your husband been saying about me?" She looked a little surprised and said "Well, you were the big love of his life." I looked at him and said "Why in the world didn't you tell me that?" He was actually blushing and said "I guess I was shy". As it turned out, he sat next to me at dinner and we did have a nice conversation. But I never knew............. :o)
As for 'that other guy', he didn't show up. I really didn't expect him and would have been very surprised if he had.
All in all, I am glad I went because it made me see that I am very very blessed. I am in good health, I can still work and most of all, I have a great support system of loving friends that I choose to call 'family'.
God bless you all.
I had a chance to visit my cousins. There was a small gathering of some I haven't seen in 21+ years and some I've not yet met. My cousin Dennis was my best friend growing up. We are 6 months apart in age and we went to school together. Ten years ago he was stricken with cancer and lost his larynx. He talks through an amplifying aparatus which works quite well. But he get a bit frustrated with it because we are Polish and are loud. In a group of 15 people, all talking at once, he is a voice not heard too well. Saying goodbye was hard because I most likely won't see him again. I don't think I'll go back again.
I drove by the old neighborhoods. Winchester Street where I lived until I was almost 10 has changed. Most of the old houses are still there, but is really bad shape. The house in which we lived is still there. Painted white but divided. What was a duplex now houses 4 apartments. I sat in my rental car across the street and tried to see that little girl playing in the front yard. The hedges are gone, the lilacs are gone and so is the big tree on the side that gave us so much shade. I was glad I went.
I also drove by the last house we lived in, on Burdick Avenue, before my Dad and I moved in 1965. The woman who owns it now, drove in as I was sitting, looking and I walked up the driveway and apologized for the intrusion. She was quite gracious once she knew who I was and showed me around the yard and even offered to take me inside. I declined because I knew it would upset me more than I already was. I spent about 20 minutes with her and she thanked me for stopping as I left. I was glad I stopped.
The next morning I took the tour of Pulaski High School with about 10 of my classmates. The building was fairly new when we attended there. The marble floors were always polished and the halls were kept clean. Now, any breakable surface is covered with grating or wire and most doors have bars on them. Each hallway, at the stairs, has a security door which is kept locked during class. Unless you have a special pass, you don't leave the corridor where your current classroom is located. This made me very sad and a little bit mad. 9What kind of kids are we raising???) We saw our swimming pool, the gym, the cafeteria, the study halls and our home rooms. We ended the tour in the library where they had a gallon of Leon's Frozen Custard. Leon's is the drive-in, located across the street from the school, that the TV series 'Happy Days' is based.
Later that evening, I went to the dinner. There were 23 of the students (out of a class of 61) in attendance, some with spouses, some without. It was good to see them all and hear what they have done in the past 50 years. Most are retired. Most have aged. I was aghast when I saw some of the gals. Several look in their 80s. I guess life was hard. In comparison either I'm well preserved or I've not faced many hardships because I can say, I looked good. Even the majority of the men have aged. Balding and what hair is left is white. Many hunched over, many with liver spots......Geesch. I am thinking is this going to hit me too!
A couple of the kids I knew at Jr. High were also there. We were in 7th and 8th grade together. I had forgotten that part of my life. There were several snapshots taken outside that school and we look like we are the case of 'Grease'. Yes, we actually did look like that LOL One of the guys, LeRoy, married one of the gals from high school and have been married for 43 years. When she saw me she said "My husband has been talking about you for years". I laughed and let it go. In two other conversations she brought it up again so I asked HER "And what has your husband been saying about me?" She looked a little surprised and said "Well, you were the big love of his life." I looked at him and said "Why in the world didn't you tell me that?" He was actually blushing and said "I guess I was shy". As it turned out, he sat next to me at dinner and we did have a nice conversation. But I never knew............. :o)
As for 'that other guy', he didn't show up. I really didn't expect him and would have been very surprised if he had.
All in all, I am glad I went because it made me see that I am very very blessed. I am in good health, I can still work and most of all, I have a great support system of loving friends that I choose to call 'family'.
God bless you all.
Friday, September 01, 2006
It was a dark and stormy night...
...day? Either one, it is chilly, rainy and dark. It's 6:00PM and it feels like fall. After the hot summer we've had, 60 degrees feels cold. Hurricane Ernesto is working his way up the coast and we're getting his wind and rain. We need the rain, but 5 inches today? A bit much. The City of Alexandria is passing out free sandbags to homes and businesses in hopes that if the water rises, they will keep the water out.
Being this far inland we won't have problems with flooding, but there are several creeks and 'run's that will overflow and cause roadways to wash out. The traffic advisors are reminding motorists to not drive through any standing water on the roads. One can not tell how deep the water may be.
I don't like weather like this. It's unpredictable and uncontrollable. I feel bad for those in Hurricane Katrina, a year ago. God bless them all.
This will be a long weekend. Labor day is upon us. The summer has flown by and it was fun. I had a chance to travel to Missouri in the Spring and I visited with Donna and Cliff and got to meet Blue and Sadie. Something I had never dreamed could happen, but relished the idea when I was invited. I loved it.
Next week at this time, I'll be back in Milwaukee for my 50th high school reunion. The body may be 50 years older than the day I graduated, but the spirit that lives in it is as young and lively as it ever way. I just run out of gas too quickly :o)
I'll spend some time with the relatives. I don't know who will gather at my cousin's home, but it will be good to see them. That is if I can remember them all. I look forward to the trip.
Tomorrow I'll sleep in and do a few chores. I plan on not 'laboring' on this Labor Day.
God bless you all.
Being this far inland we won't have problems with flooding, but there are several creeks and 'run's that will overflow and cause roadways to wash out. The traffic advisors are reminding motorists to not drive through any standing water on the roads. One can not tell how deep the water may be.
I don't like weather like this. It's unpredictable and uncontrollable. I feel bad for those in Hurricane Katrina, a year ago. God bless them all.
This will be a long weekend. Labor day is upon us. The summer has flown by and it was fun. I had a chance to travel to Missouri in the Spring and I visited with Donna and Cliff and got to meet Blue and Sadie. Something I had never dreamed could happen, but relished the idea when I was invited. I loved it.
Next week at this time, I'll be back in Milwaukee for my 50th high school reunion. The body may be 50 years older than the day I graduated, but the spirit that lives in it is as young and lively as it ever way. I just run out of gas too quickly :o)
I'll spend some time with the relatives. I don't know who will gather at my cousin's home, but it will be good to see them. That is if I can remember them all. I look forward to the trip.
Tomorrow I'll sleep in and do a few chores. I plan on not 'laboring' on this Labor Day.
God bless you all.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
The weekend started yesterday...
I'm thinking this is not the best time for me to be posting. I'm not in a good place. I'm crabby, I'm in pain and I have nothing new to contribute for this week.
My arthritis is bothering me today. I even caved in and took 2 Aleve (Or at least the OTC kind) at 8:00AM today. My neck has been out of joint since Wednesday and that is bothersome. It comes and goes. Depending on how I turn or where I reach. It's HELL getting old.
I think I'm crabby because I'm in pain. If I felt better, maybe I'd want to do something outside of the house or go somewhere. But I will most likely just stay in. I do have to color my hair today. I have an appointment for a cut tomorrow at 1:00PM with Diane T. I have to ready myself for my big reunion in two weeks. I should give up the effort. These are all people I knew back when and there's no way we can hide how old we are. We all know. I think we'll all just try to erase the mileage we have on our faces and torsos. After all, most parts of us all have gone south LOL
As for the past week, it was just more of the same. The boss lady had been out of the office the week before so she had to play catch up, and then the Executive Committee decided they wanted some production charts done - you got it - 20 minutes ago. So for 3 days, I had to drop EVERYTHING and work on the project for her. These are things I really love doing. Putting together the spreadsheets with the variable scenarios and putting those figures into charts are a lot of fun for me. But these people have a set goal in their minds so even after we tweaked the numbers, they retweaked them to come up with what they wanted to see. I redid them three times. When I was done with the main chart I busted out laughing because it was the reproduction of the Productivity chart I had done for the boss a week earlier, only a different color. I called it to her attention - she looked at it and started to chuckle. She said "Shhhhh don't tell them. Let them figure it out". She did thank me several times for deviating from my routine to jump into the project for her.
That left Thursday for me to get caught up on things I had to do from the beginning of the week. Several people on the project were complaining to their specific supervisors, that things weren't done on time by me and I was forwarded several emails regarding these points. I sweetly replied that I was on a special project for the Program Manager and if there was any problem, they should direct their inquiries to her - and I copied her on the email. Never heard another squeak.
Yesterday when I got to work I realized that I didn't want to be there at all. I was in a rotten mood, I felt awful and if I stayed there, I knew I'd mouth off to somebody so at 10:00 I told the boss I was caving in and going home. She was all for it. That is one thing about her. She is not at all possessive about her staff wanting time away. I finished up a thing or two that I had and went home at 11:15, hence my weekend started early. I called David only to find out he was in Centreville with another patient and he came by when he was done. He worked on my aching body for a good long time and I did feel a lot better. In fact, now that I think about it, my leg does not hurt at all today. It was awful in the early part of the week. Like I said, it's HELL getting old.
I took a snooze, had a bite to eat and that was my day. Very enjoyable. Hopefully the rest of this day will be the same way.
I'm going to do some internet searching to see if I can find a reasonably priced Ipod or MP3 player. I don't want to spend a whole bunch but I'd like to be able to take 'my music' to the office with me. (Mosie, if I remember correctly, you had a sweet little player when you were here. Send me an email about it, if you can)
For someone with nothing to say today, I've rattled on and on so I'll just say
God bless you all.
My arthritis is bothering me today. I even caved in and took 2 Aleve (Or at least the OTC kind) at 8:00AM today. My neck has been out of joint since Wednesday and that is bothersome. It comes and goes. Depending on how I turn or where I reach. It's HELL getting old.
I think I'm crabby because I'm in pain. If I felt better, maybe I'd want to do something outside of the house or go somewhere. But I will most likely just stay in. I do have to color my hair today. I have an appointment for a cut tomorrow at 1:00PM with Diane T. I have to ready myself for my big reunion in two weeks. I should give up the effort. These are all people I knew back when and there's no way we can hide how old we are. We all know. I think we'll all just try to erase the mileage we have on our faces and torsos. After all, most parts of us all have gone south LOL
As for the past week, it was just more of the same. The boss lady had been out of the office the week before so she had to play catch up, and then the Executive Committee decided they wanted some production charts done - you got it - 20 minutes ago. So for 3 days, I had to drop EVERYTHING and work on the project for her. These are things I really love doing. Putting together the spreadsheets with the variable scenarios and putting those figures into charts are a lot of fun for me. But these people have a set goal in their minds so even after we tweaked the numbers, they retweaked them to come up with what they wanted to see. I redid them three times. When I was done with the main chart I busted out laughing because it was the reproduction of the Productivity chart I had done for the boss a week earlier, only a different color. I called it to her attention - she looked at it and started to chuckle. She said "Shhhhh don't tell them. Let them figure it out". She did thank me several times for deviating from my routine to jump into the project for her.
That left Thursday for me to get caught up on things I had to do from the beginning of the week. Several people on the project were complaining to their specific supervisors, that things weren't done on time by me and I was forwarded several emails regarding these points. I sweetly replied that I was on a special project for the Program Manager and if there was any problem, they should direct their inquiries to her - and I copied her on the email. Never heard another squeak.
Yesterday when I got to work I realized that I didn't want to be there at all. I was in a rotten mood, I felt awful and if I stayed there, I knew I'd mouth off to somebody so at 10:00 I told the boss I was caving in and going home. She was all for it. That is one thing about her. She is not at all possessive about her staff wanting time away. I finished up a thing or two that I had and went home at 11:15, hence my weekend started early. I called David only to find out he was in Centreville with another patient and he came by when he was done. He worked on my aching body for a good long time and I did feel a lot better. In fact, now that I think about it, my leg does not hurt at all today. It was awful in the early part of the week. Like I said, it's HELL getting old.
I took a snooze, had a bite to eat and that was my day. Very enjoyable. Hopefully the rest of this day will be the same way.
I'm going to do some internet searching to see if I can find a reasonably priced Ipod or MP3 player. I don't want to spend a whole bunch but I'd like to be able to take 'my music' to the office with me. (Mosie, if I remember correctly, you had a sweet little player when you were here. Send me an email about it, if you can)
For someone with nothing to say today, I've rattled on and on so I'll just say
God bless you all.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Short work week took too long....
I gave myself a gift of a vacation day on Monday, which I thoroughly enjoyed. However, trying to catch up with myself on Tuesday was tough. Luckily, the boss-lady was at a week long conference and she was not in all week. By Friday I was caught up and even managed to tackle a very boring job she had assigned me more than a month ago. I think I made good progress and will be able to show her that I did gain ground with a very futile task.
Today is a gorgeous day. It was a slow start with low lying clouds, but now at nearly 11:00AM, it's lovely. Bright, sunny, with a slight breeze.
I did a little research on flights for Thanksgiving in Atlanta and I can get one now for under $250. I'll ask for the Friday after as leave and if I get the go-ahead I'll book the flight. Sandy has offered to pay half the ticket. I'm still thinking about whether to let her do it or not.
I may try to go to Arcola UMC tomorrow. It seems to be calling me. Maybe I can find peace there and join an adult Sunday School class. I really miss that. I attended one for a long time but as people in this area fade away, it just fell by the wayside. I have hopes.
Giant had a sale last week on top round and I bought a 2 lb piece. I have it marinating in fresh lime juice, olive oil, garlic and Paul Newman's Lime Salsa. I'll broil it to med. rare and serve it on a whole wheat tortilla like a fajita. I also found a recipe on Sparkpeople.com for a black bean dish. It calls for onion, garlic and tomato juice to be added to a can of black beans. Well, I have this jar of Newman's..........................I'll use that. Oh yum...I can hardly wait and it is all healthy and within my calorie range.
BJ will be back from the beach late today. I hope to talk to her tomorrow and see how her trip was. David and Sharon have gone off to Myrtle Beach for a weekend away. I hope they enjoy the time away.
I miss them all...............
I'm just hanging out today. May do a little laundry, but I'm not rushing into anything.
God bless you all.
Today is a gorgeous day. It was a slow start with low lying clouds, but now at nearly 11:00AM, it's lovely. Bright, sunny, with a slight breeze.
I did a little research on flights for Thanksgiving in Atlanta and I can get one now for under $250. I'll ask for the Friday after as leave and if I get the go-ahead I'll book the flight. Sandy has offered to pay half the ticket. I'm still thinking about whether to let her do it or not.
I may try to go to Arcola UMC tomorrow. It seems to be calling me. Maybe I can find peace there and join an adult Sunday School class. I really miss that. I attended one for a long time but as people in this area fade away, it just fell by the wayside. I have hopes.
Giant had a sale last week on top round and I bought a 2 lb piece. I have it marinating in fresh lime juice, olive oil, garlic and Paul Newman's Lime Salsa. I'll broil it to med. rare and serve it on a whole wheat tortilla like a fajita. I also found a recipe on Sparkpeople.com for a black bean dish. It calls for onion, garlic and tomato juice to be added to a can of black beans. Well, I have this jar of Newman's..........................I'll use that. Oh yum...I can hardly wait and it is all healthy and within my calorie range.
BJ will be back from the beach late today. I hope to talk to her tomorrow and see how her trip was. David and Sharon have gone off to Myrtle Beach for a weekend away. I hope they enjoy the time away.
I miss them all...............
I'm just hanging out today. May do a little laundry, but I'm not rushing into anything.
God bless you all.
Monday, August 14, 2006
It Almost Seems As Though All We Did Was Eat.......
Sandy has come and gone. I always hate to come back to the house after she's been here. It's so quiet and Jake is walking around with a look like "Where is she?". He did the same thing after Donna left.
We did all fun things. We didn't spend time with her brother. She said she felt badly about not contacting him this trip, but I tried my best to convince her that it was OK - it was her choice. They have drifted apart over the past 10 years, both with different political and religious views. She believes it's OK to have your own opinion on those things, he does not. What he believes is right, so that causes some friction. Enough said there..........
We ate dinner at her favorite restaurant here where she was able to get Ahi Tuna, seared just the was she likes it.
On Saturday,we went shopping in Old Town Alexandria. I had not been there in at least 7 years and the renovations made are very refreshing. We had lunch and walked around. BJ told us of a little boutique that sells handbags and of course, we indulged.
Then we headed off to Tysons Galleria, where we had high tea at the Ritz Carlton. BJ and I had gone once before and loved it and at that time said the next time Sandy came to town, she had to come. We sat there for nearly 2 hours, chatting, nibbling the little sandwiches and sweet treats, sipping some of the best teas and enjoying the view of the Tysons skyline. (I had almost forgotten that Bryan has set up office in the adjacent building) I chose blackberry/black currant, Sandy had a ginger/spice combo and BJ had passion fruits flavors. One would think we would never have to eat again.
We bid BJ goodbye and wished her a fabulous vacation. She and JC and the boys were heading to Bethany Beach the next day to spend a week in JC's Dad's beach house. She has been working too hard this past month, filling in for another director who had left the company, so this respite was well earned. Being the selfish person I am, I will miss her.
We headed home and in a few hours, were looking at the 'frig. The night before, I had ordered ribs and brought home 1/2 rack. We also had Tex-Mex eggrolls and one was left over, so like little vultures, we gobbled up the left overs. No really needing food, but something to calm the palate. We both whispered yummmmmmmmm.
On Sunday we slept in and once again headed to Tysons, but to the main mall, not the Tysons II side. The have added wings and remodeled the old portion to the point that I didn't recognize any part of the place. Once again, I was in another town. Sandy needed a birthday gift for her dear friend, Linda and when we found the Swarovsky crystal shop, we went in. She found a lovely crystal necklace for her and I was almost envious. It was gorgeous.
We plodded onward and next found the L'Occitane shop so she could replenish her stock of skin care items. The gal in the store gave me some samples and warned me I would become addicted. I grinned and said "We'll see". (Remember, I am a creature of habit).
Once again it was time to eat, so we found a nice quiet restaurant where I overinduged in a Reuben Sandwich. It was so good. It's been a very long time since I've eaten real bread, fatty meat and grease. ROFL I loved it; I went face first into it.
We shopped a little longer and we both decided we were tired and our backs were sore, so we headed home. She had about an hour and a half before I had to take her to the airport so we both rested on the couch.
I think she had a good time. I know I did. I had a chance to talk to her and see how she has changed and matured. Her Mom would be so proud of her. I am......
She has invited me to come for Thanksgiving. I am considering it.
Today I'm just taking it easy.
God bless you all.
We did all fun things. We didn't spend time with her brother. She said she felt badly about not contacting him this trip, but I tried my best to convince her that it was OK - it was her choice. They have drifted apart over the past 10 years, both with different political and religious views. She believes it's OK to have your own opinion on those things, he does not. What he believes is right, so that causes some friction. Enough said there..........
We ate dinner at her favorite restaurant here where she was able to get Ahi Tuna, seared just the was she likes it.
On Saturday,we went shopping in Old Town Alexandria. I had not been there in at least 7 years and the renovations made are very refreshing. We had lunch and walked around. BJ told us of a little boutique that sells handbags and of course, we indulged.
Then we headed off to Tysons Galleria, where we had high tea at the Ritz Carlton. BJ and I had gone once before and loved it and at that time said the next time Sandy came to town, she had to come. We sat there for nearly 2 hours, chatting, nibbling the little sandwiches and sweet treats, sipping some of the best teas and enjoying the view of the Tysons skyline. (I had almost forgotten that Bryan has set up office in the adjacent building) I chose blackberry/black currant, Sandy had a ginger/spice combo and BJ had passion fruits flavors. One would think we would never have to eat again.
We bid BJ goodbye and wished her a fabulous vacation. She and JC and the boys were heading to Bethany Beach the next day to spend a week in JC's Dad's beach house. She has been working too hard this past month, filling in for another director who had left the company, so this respite was well earned. Being the selfish person I am, I will miss her.
We headed home and in a few hours, were looking at the 'frig. The night before, I had ordered ribs and brought home 1/2 rack. We also had Tex-Mex eggrolls and one was left over, so like little vultures, we gobbled up the left overs. No really needing food, but something to calm the palate. We both whispered yummmmmmmmm.
On Sunday we slept in and once again headed to Tysons, but to the main mall, not the Tysons II side. The have added wings and remodeled the old portion to the point that I didn't recognize any part of the place. Once again, I was in another town. Sandy needed a birthday gift for her dear friend, Linda and when we found the Swarovsky crystal shop, we went in. She found a lovely crystal necklace for her and I was almost envious. It was gorgeous.
We plodded onward and next found the L'Occitane shop so she could replenish her stock of skin care items. The gal in the store gave me some samples and warned me I would become addicted. I grinned and said "We'll see". (Remember, I am a creature of habit).
Once again it was time to eat, so we found a nice quiet restaurant where I overinduged in a Reuben Sandwich. It was so good. It's been a very long time since I've eaten real bread, fatty meat and grease. ROFL I loved it; I went face first into it.
We shopped a little longer and we both decided we were tired and our backs were sore, so we headed home. She had about an hour and a half before I had to take her to the airport so we both rested on the couch.
I think she had a good time. I know I did. I had a chance to talk to her and see how she has changed and matured. Her Mom would be so proud of her. I am......
She has invited me to come for Thanksgiving. I am considering it.
Today I'm just taking it easy.
God bless you all.
Saturday, August 05, 2006
The honeymoon is over
All I am going to say here is that the honeymoon is over, with my job that is. Something happened, which I won't dredge up, but it let me know EXACTLY what my boss thinks of me and that I've been busting my hump to support someone who really does not care about me.
I hate it when I get this way because it diminishes the quality of work I generate. No more worrying about whether WE meet deadlines. It's about whether I meet my deadline with her. No more being concerned that I look good for her to the Executive Committee, only that I cover my butt.
Sorry to say I'm being selfish because now my job is all about me. I will generator the best work I can, but I do it for me. I know that what I do is good and that when I do make a mistake, I can make it better and fix it. But no more running interference for her.
Enough said.
God bless you all.
I hate it when I get this way because it diminishes the quality of work I generate. No more worrying about whether WE meet deadlines. It's about whether I meet my deadline with her. No more being concerned that I look good for her to the Executive Committee, only that I cover my butt.
Sorry to say I'm being selfish because now my job is all about me. I will generator the best work I can, but I do it for me. I know that what I do is good and that when I do make a mistake, I can make it better and fix it. But no more running interference for her.
Enough said.
God bless you all.
Friday, July 28, 2006
In a Fit of Temper
I came home yesterday after work, 3:30ish to find a man, vacuuming my living room. I looked at him, he was surprised to see me because he didn't hear me over the vacuum, and I shouted "What are you doing in my house and who are you?". In broken English he said "I Patrick - Rosy" and pointed upstairs. Rosy, my house cleaner's brother is visiting from Bolivia, but I was still livid. She's supposed to be done and out by noon and here it was, afterwork for me with my downstairs torn up and she's scrubbing out the shower stall upstairs.
I went upstairs and yelled to her "Rosy why are you still here" and to try to cover over my anger she said "Hello, Missy Joanna" and I shouted again (A little louder) "Why are you still here????" She mumbled something about Claudia's (her daughter) dentist and shopping and running out of time and I said to her "You didn't tell me about this" and she said "I'm sorry I never do this again" (which she's promised many times before). I don't like coming home from a day at the office, tired and wanting to sit, and finding my house all torn up and no place to sit and relax.
I was so very upset I was afraid I'd blow it with my big mouth, so I quickly changed clothes, grabbed my swim suit and went to the Rec Center. I swam for 30 minutes, did 11 laps, which is more than on Sunday, but at least I did it. I'm not sure this is the way to get my exercise in, but it sure beats not going at all.
I got home an hour later and they were gone - the house clean.
I say no more.....
God bless you all
I went upstairs and yelled to her "Rosy why are you still here" and to try to cover over my anger she said "Hello, Missy Joanna" and I shouted again (A little louder) "Why are you still here????" She mumbled something about Claudia's (her daughter) dentist and shopping and running out of time and I said to her "You didn't tell me about this" and she said "I'm sorry I never do this again" (which she's promised many times before). I don't like coming home from a day at the office, tired and wanting to sit, and finding my house all torn up and no place to sit and relax.
I was so very upset I was afraid I'd blow it with my big mouth, so I quickly changed clothes, grabbed my swim suit and went to the Rec Center. I swam for 30 minutes, did 11 laps, which is more than on Sunday, but at least I did it. I'm not sure this is the way to get my exercise in, but it sure beats not going at all.
I got home an hour later and they were gone - the house clean.
I say no more.....
God bless you all
Sunday, July 23, 2006
* * * * * - I give myself 5 stars
Yes, I get 5 stars for today.
Why, you ask? Because I did 2, count them - 2 things that I said I would. ::From she who seldoms finishes something she starts ::
I went to Centreville Presbyterian Church this morning. It was different, but nice and I'll go again. One visit can not tell me if I like this church or not. The Associate Pastor was a bit of a rambler and I drifted a few times, but I caught the gist of what he was saying. Beautiful new church and this service featured contemporary music. The group was good, on key but not polished. They get 5 stars for showing up. Next week I'll go to the traditional service.
Then I came home, did NOT sit down, changed clothes and went to the Rec Center. I swam 9 laps; it took me 20 minutes but I just couldn't squeeze out that 10th lap. The pool is very nice, big and clean. There weren't too many people there at 11:00AM but there were kids who thought they'd try out the big pool and were splashing and jumping and making a ruckus so the life guards threw them out to the dismay of their parents. Good to see the staff sticks to the rules.
I didn't want to overdo because it has been quite awhile since I have been in the water. It did some leg and lower back exercises in the water but only 10 sets of each. I feel tired and hungry so I'm going to get a bite but I was so excited I had to post this before the thrill went away.
God bless you all.
Why, you ask? Because I did 2, count them - 2 things that I said I would. ::From she who seldoms finishes something she starts ::
I went to Centreville Presbyterian Church this morning. It was different, but nice and I'll go again. One visit can not tell me if I like this church or not. The Associate Pastor was a bit of a rambler and I drifted a few times, but I caught the gist of what he was saying. Beautiful new church and this service featured contemporary music. The group was good, on key but not polished. They get 5 stars for showing up. Next week I'll go to the traditional service.
Then I came home, did NOT sit down, changed clothes and went to the Rec Center. I swam 9 laps; it took me 20 minutes but I just couldn't squeeze out that 10th lap. The pool is very nice, big and clean. There weren't too many people there at 11:00AM but there were kids who thought they'd try out the big pool and were splashing and jumping and making a ruckus so the life guards threw them out to the dismay of their parents. Good to see the staff sticks to the rules.
I didn't want to overdo because it has been quite awhile since I have been in the water. It did some leg and lower back exercises in the water but only 10 sets of each. I feel tired and hungry so I'm going to get a bite but I was so excited I had to post this before the thrill went away.
God bless you all.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Motivation
Since I started on the Spark People program, I've been very pleased with the eating plan, the exercises they suggest and most of all, the support received from the message boards. I've joined a "community team" for 60+ women wanting to lost at least 50 lbs. I don't need the 50 lb weight loss, but I do need women in my more-or-less age group.
I have been thinking about getting more exercise but with my dicey back, I just can't do a lot of walking. During Marina's visit I just about expired from all of the walking, even in the mall where it was cool.
Today I took a quantem leap and visited our county community recreation center and was astounded. Not even 3 miles from home, and maybe 4 minutes away, is the facility. Just a little over a year old it has a fitness center with all the types of exercise machinery needed. Treadmills, exercycles, weight training, etc. And best of all, two very large pools. One is for play, with two huge water slides, one covered and going outside the building and coming back in. The other is for lap swimming and water exercise classes. I stopped at the front desk and talked to two young volunteers and was pleased with their friendliness and eagerness to answer questions. One took me for a mini tour and explained some of the procedures. The other one then wrote down times of two of the classes. One deep water exercises and one water aerobics. I left very impressed and was deep in thought over it all.
Sooooo, I stopped at Target and will wonders never cease!!! They were having a close out on swim wear. (I haven't had a decent bathing suit in 20 years) So I found the only one piece suit in my size and made a $25 commitment.
Tomorrow my intention is to visit Centreville Presbyterian, afterwards stopping for a few groceries and before my couch can grab hold, I'd like to get to the pool by noon. I hope to spend a little time just warming up and swimming a little bit. Maybe 30 minutes in all. I don't want to join a class stiff as a board so I think if I like the whole idea of it, I'll swim again once during the week and do a 'drop by' in the aerobics class on Thursday.
Now I keep reminding myself that I'm famous for not finishing things that I start. But Dr. Eisenbaum has been such a jerk about me getting exercise, to shut him up I'll try it. My dear friend David also feels the low impact exercise will benefit my back and hip and I think it will help my arthritis.
Let's see how it goes.
No!! No pictures of me in the new suit. I don't want to see any comments like "Moby Dick is visiting" or "Beached whale!!"
I blame Spark People and David for getting me motivated. Thanks guys.
Gob bless you all.
I have been thinking about getting more exercise but with my dicey back, I just can't do a lot of walking. During Marina's visit I just about expired from all of the walking, even in the mall where it was cool.
Today I took a quantem leap and visited our county community recreation center and was astounded. Not even 3 miles from home, and maybe 4 minutes away, is the facility. Just a little over a year old it has a fitness center with all the types of exercise machinery needed. Treadmills, exercycles, weight training, etc. And best of all, two very large pools. One is for play, with two huge water slides, one covered and going outside the building and coming back in. The other is for lap swimming and water exercise classes. I stopped at the front desk and talked to two young volunteers and was pleased with their friendliness and eagerness to answer questions. One took me for a mini tour and explained some of the procedures. The other one then wrote down times of two of the classes. One deep water exercises and one water aerobics. I left very impressed and was deep in thought over it all.
Sooooo, I stopped at Target and will wonders never cease!!! They were having a close out on swim wear. (I haven't had a decent bathing suit in 20 years) So I found the only one piece suit in my size and made a $25 commitment.
Tomorrow my intention is to visit Centreville Presbyterian, afterwards stopping for a few groceries and before my couch can grab hold, I'd like to get to the pool by noon. I hope to spend a little time just warming up and swimming a little bit. Maybe 30 minutes in all. I don't want to join a class stiff as a board so I think if I like the whole idea of it, I'll swim again once during the week and do a 'drop by' in the aerobics class on Thursday.
Now I keep reminding myself that I'm famous for not finishing things that I start. But Dr. Eisenbaum has been such a jerk about me getting exercise, to shut him up I'll try it. My dear friend David also feels the low impact exercise will benefit my back and hip and I think it will help my arthritis.
Let's see how it goes.
No!! No pictures of me in the new suit. I don't want to see any comments like "Moby Dick is visiting" or "Beached whale!!"
I blame Spark People and David for getting me motivated. Thanks guys.
Gob bless you all.
Friday, July 21, 2006
Mini-Vacation
Well, the house is empty and very quiet. Marina, my dear Russian friend who was my translator on my last trip has left to continue her East Coast visit. It was so good to see her and even more of a kick to have her stay with me. I wish we had a few more days to show her more of our area, but it wasn't to be.
She arrived on Tuesday and we had dinner with BJ. Wednesday two of the mission team members took her into Washington to see the sights. I stayed at the office. It was too hot for me. They started out at the Capital and walked to the Lincoln Memorial and back. She was eager to press on while the two 'natives' were wilting in the near 100 degree heat. They did manage to coax her into the Museum of Natural History for a brief, cool respite. She loved the Hope Diamond. Way to go!! What girl wouldn't. That evening we were supposed to have a little gathering for supper at a local eatery and EVERYBODY crapped out. Those who had been with her all day, wilted and faded away. I wound up taking her to our local Chinese restaurant and then early to sleep.
Yesterday I took her to the Manassas Battlefield where we walked the fields. It was too hot to walk the entire course, be we did walk to the old house to see the graveyard and then to Stonewall Jackson's statue. A few moments back at the pavilion restored our strength and we went on for lunch at another team member's home. Marina had been Liz's translator on the spring trip and they established a great friendship. I'm not surprised - she's a terrific gal. Liz fixed us a lovely lunch and I backed away so they could spend a little time together. Then we went off to visit the closest Mall. We shopped for an hour or so and came home to get refreshed and off to a cookout where most of the team members were able to see her and talk to. It was a great time and Marina was awed that so many people had come out just to see her. I was proud of the group for their attention to her.
This morning I took her to the church, where the next leg of her journey will begin. A gentleman who works for Children's Hope Chest is taking her to Virginia Beach for the weekend at his home. He and his wife are new parents to a baby boy and Marina will enjoy seeing the baby. Then Monday, she is off to Colorado Springs again until late August when she'll return to Russia to begin studies at the University in early September.
It was a gift to us all to have her here with us.
Here is a picture of the two of us before she left.
So now I spend the rest of the day remembering her and those wonderful kids we've learned to love in our orphanage.
God bless you all.
She arrived on Tuesday and we had dinner with BJ. Wednesday two of the mission team members took her into Washington to see the sights. I stayed at the office. It was too hot for me. They started out at the Capital and walked to the Lincoln Memorial and back. She was eager to press on while the two 'natives' were wilting in the near 100 degree heat. They did manage to coax her into the Museum of Natural History for a brief, cool respite. She loved the Hope Diamond. Way to go!! What girl wouldn't. That evening we were supposed to have a little gathering for supper at a local eatery and EVERYBODY crapped out. Those who had been with her all day, wilted and faded away. I wound up taking her to our local Chinese restaurant and then early to sleep.
Yesterday I took her to the Manassas Battlefield where we walked the fields. It was too hot to walk the entire course, be we did walk to the old house to see the graveyard and then to Stonewall Jackson's statue. A few moments back at the pavilion restored our strength and we went on for lunch at another team member's home. Marina had been Liz's translator on the spring trip and they established a great friendship. I'm not surprised - she's a terrific gal. Liz fixed us a lovely lunch and I backed away so they could spend a little time together. Then we went off to visit the closest Mall. We shopped for an hour or so and came home to get refreshed and off to a cookout where most of the team members were able to see her and talk to. It was a great time and Marina was awed that so many people had come out just to see her. I was proud of the group for their attention to her.
This morning I took her to the church, where the next leg of her journey will begin. A gentleman who works for Children's Hope Chest is taking her to Virginia Beach for the weekend at his home. He and his wife are new parents to a baby boy and Marina will enjoy seeing the baby. Then Monday, she is off to Colorado Springs again until late August when she'll return to Russia to begin studies at the University in early September.
It was a gift to us all to have her here with us.
Here is a picture of the two of us before she left.
So now I spend the rest of the day remembering her and those wonderful kids we've learned to love in our orphanage.
God bless you all.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
HOT - HOT - HOT
What more can I say? It's July!!
It's been a busy week once again, but I think I see a light at the end of the tunnel. My luck, it probably is a train. Didn't work any OT this week. Although I like regaining my weekends, I can honestly say I'll miss the extra cash. I haven't seen my actual wage since I received my salary increase after my one year review. I've been stacking OT hours. This week I will have one or two but can't work as much as I'd like to.
Marina will be here on Tuesday. On Wednesday, I'll put her in the care and custody of two mission team members to be taken her into town and to see all the sights, something I'm not interested in doing. 90 degrees in mid-July is NOT my idea of when to visit Washington,DC. Two members graciously volunteered to do it and I accepted. One other member has a friend in the Secret Service who may be able to get tickets for the White House tour, so that would be great for her. I'm really looking forward to her visit.
The house is in good shape. Yesterday I got her room ready for her, but not without incident. I had just finished stripping down the bed and putting fresh linens on it when I decided to lower the blinds completely. I usually leave them raised about 18 inches because the cats like to sit on the windowsills and rule their kingdom. One tug on the cord and the whole thing came crashing down. I tried to put them back but I'd get one side up and the other would pop out. I became very frustrated and let them sit for an hour or so. I even emailed my dear friend asking him if he would help me on Monday when he stops by. After thinking about it, I decided to try again. That's when I saw a little piece of metal on the floor. It was part of the bracket on one end of the blind and when I put it in the right place, it held the blind in place. Of course, having a chair to stand on helped a lot. And standing in the middle of the window where I could reach to both sides. So now I'm ready for Marina.
Today I have an errand or two along with a hair appointment, so it will be a fun day.
Nothing other than that is new, but I feel I'm in a good place.
God bless you all
It's been a busy week once again, but I think I see a light at the end of the tunnel. My luck, it probably is a train. Didn't work any OT this week. Although I like regaining my weekends, I can honestly say I'll miss the extra cash. I haven't seen my actual wage since I received my salary increase after my one year review. I've been stacking OT hours. This week I will have one or two but can't work as much as I'd like to.
Marina will be here on Tuesday. On Wednesday, I'll put her in the care and custody of two mission team members to be taken her into town and to see all the sights, something I'm not interested in doing. 90 degrees in mid-July is NOT my idea of when to visit Washington,DC. Two members graciously volunteered to do it and I accepted. One other member has a friend in the Secret Service who may be able to get tickets for the White House tour, so that would be great for her. I'm really looking forward to her visit.
The house is in good shape. Yesterday I got her room ready for her, but not without incident. I had just finished stripping down the bed and putting fresh linens on it when I decided to lower the blinds completely. I usually leave them raised about 18 inches because the cats like to sit on the windowsills and rule their kingdom. One tug on the cord and the whole thing came crashing down. I tried to put them back but I'd get one side up and the other would pop out. I became very frustrated and let them sit for an hour or so. I even emailed my dear friend asking him if he would help me on Monday when he stops by. After thinking about it, I decided to try again. That's when I saw a little piece of metal on the floor. It was part of the bracket on one end of the blind and when I put it in the right place, it held the blind in place. Of course, having a chair to stand on helped a lot. And standing in the middle of the window where I could reach to both sides. So now I'm ready for Marina.
Today I have an errand or two along with a hair appointment, so it will be a fun day.
Nothing other than that is new, but I feel I'm in a good place.
God bless you all
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)