It's been a day...

A dreary, cold Wednesday. Heavy cloud cover, temps in the 30s, and…believe it or not…thunder, lightening, and hail mixed with sleet…off and on all day! Very strange!

I decided not to risk the icy highways unnecessarily today, so I stayed in and had a very productive day!

1 - After almost 2 hours online, I found another position to apply for, so I did that first!
2 – I got out the gift wrapping paraphernalia and wrapped all of the gifts that we have purchased so far…except one…which I will have to find a box for.
3 – I cut out and tied two blankets (to be given as gifts).
4 – I made a loaf of banana bread.

I usually don’t even turn the TV on during the day…I much prefer music. Today, however, I was working with the blankets on the living room floor, so I turned it on. In my estimation…daytime TV is the most pitiful…absolutely pointless thing possible. I flipped through channel after channel…Tyra Banks and an entire audience in their underwear…Megan Mullaly and some guy doing a sorry Tom Cruise imitation (jumping up and down on her couch)…and three different mock court shows, with outrageous people suing each other for stupid things, while manic judges presided…I finally came across an old movie channel and listened to Cary Grant lament being stuck on the island with all those females (Father Goose)…for an hour or so while I worked. It’s sad that a movie older than dirt…is the best thing on.

The forecast has changed during the last few minutes. We were only supposed to get a little sleet today, then cold but dry tomorrow…now they have decided that we will have a ‘significant winter event’ during the night tonight, and throughout tomorrow! Sounds like a good day to finish the last two blankets!!

Be Happy!

Bad boy...bad boy...

I spent the afternoon running errands, trying to beat the cold, wet, blustery weather that is coming tonight! It is so amazing outside today that it seems inconceivable that by midnight, the change will be so drastic! The temperature right now is 70 degrees…the sun is shining, and a warm breeze is blowing…and it is November 28! How weird is that! By this time tomorrow…heavy cloud cover, COLD winds, temps in the 30’s and freezing rain! Holy cow!

I was pulling out of Sonic (on West 21st), watching the traffic fly by at 40-50 mph, bumper to bumper…wondering how there aren’t more accidents…when the guy in front of me decided to shoot across four lanes of traffic. Unfortunately, the girl on the other side of the street had the same thought at the same time! You guessed it…they hit head on! They had neither one had enough time or space to pick up much speed, so they smashed together with a loud metallic bong…each one bounced backwards a few feet…then they sat there staring at each other as though they couldn’t quite process what had just happened. Finally, after several seconds, they both pulled across into Sonic to survey the damage and exchange info. Thankfully…both were driving POS’s.

Do you ever watch people…and imagine what their theme song should be? As I was going into Wal-Mart today, an aging, tattooed man with a long gray pony tail, sat just inside the foyer. He was wearing a Harley T-shirt, and sporting a doo-rag …obviously appraising every female who entered the store…I chuckled as “I’m a Girl Watcher” by the O’Kaysions ran through my head! Once inside…I was passed in the aisle by a guy who strutted for all he was worth, obviously, in his world, he was all of that AND a bag of chips…I wanted to shout… “You’re So Vain” (Carly Simon). Then…as I tried, unsuccessfully, to reach an item on the rack in front of me, a little boy paraded back and forth (between me and the rack). His mother stood by…oblivious to the child as he prevented me from touching the item in question. He was definitely…”Bad To The Bone” (George Thorogood)! And I had to wonder…”What cha gonna do when they come for you…Bad Boy…Bad Boy!”

My mind is weird.

Be Happy!

Aftermath...

It’s over…Thanksgiving has come and gone in a flurry of activity! Here’s a recap –

Thursday – Dinner at Chas’s house! All of the Ark City crew…was invited. We ended up with 11 for the day…not a bad count when you consider how many showed up last year (0)! The meal was spectacular with ‘melt-in-your-mouth turkey’, parmesan garlic smashed potatoes, Stuffing, gravy, and all the trimmings! We ate until we could eat no more, then the men moved to the living room for football on the big screen, and the women gathered around the main table for an afternoon of conversation. As usual, the talk was lively and varied…with lots of laughter! At one point however, my sister made some comments that could not have possibly caught me more off guard…about the past. I have always felt that the three of us were very close growing up…I have always felt a special bond with both of my siblings. However, it seems that she did not feel the same. I now wonder if perhaps my brother shares her lack of those feelings. That could explain a lot these days. I have been saddened in recent months at what seemed to be a lack of any desire (on their part) to stay in contact…to maintain a relationship. I lay awake almost all night on Thursday…her words echoing in my ears. At first I cried…then I replayed the years in my mind…trying to understand how she could not have felt that same connection. Perhaps the closeness that I felt was due to the fact that I was the oldest, the caretaker, and the protector…a little girl playing the part of the mommy. Different people deal with situations in different ways, so perhaps they simply dealt with the ugliness of our childhood by detaching their hearts…while I searched desperately for someone to love and be loved by. I truly don’t know. A part of me hurts deeply…I feel like I have lost something, but I guess it isn’t possible to lose…what you never had. I know that I will continue to consider these things…to try to figure it out…maybe for the rest of my life. One more kick in the gut from the past.

Friday – We celebrated our 33rd wedding anniversary on Friday! 33 years, married to the same wonderful man! If I had it to do again…I would do it just the same! We spent the day Christmas shopping, then around 8:00 p.m.; we went out to Botanica and took the holiday light tour…wrapping up the evening at the Hotel in Old Town! It was a wonderful day!

Saturday – More Christmas shopping, then home to unpack, and put up the outdoor Christmas lights! In the evening, we made a Blockbuster run, and picked up The Da Vinci Code (watched it Saturday), and Ice Age, The Meltdown (watched it Sunday). Both movies were very good…Ice Age was hilarious, and Da Vinci Code…was good…but disturbing. I am well grounded in my faith…so to me it was simply a movie…fiction. I shudder to think of the impact that it could have on someone not aware of Biblical truth…someone searching for truth.

Sunday – Church, lunch with the kids, then home to finish those outdoor Christmas lights! By evening, we were both exhausted. We made a late run to return the movies to Blockbuster, then drove through the ‘Lights on the Lake” display at Heartspring. Finally, a hot shower, warm PJ’s, and some IM chat, while Marvin beat me at Deal or No Deal!

28 shopping days until Christmas!

Be Happy!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Just a few of the things I am thankful for…

*My family...the most wonderful husband and children on earth! Their love for me and for each other, and their never-ending tolerance and acceptance of my multitudinous eccentricities... overwhelms me!

*Our faith and salvation…an immeasurable gift.

*Friends…in far away places…caring and sharing…life.

*Prosperity…a warm, dry, clean home…full of love.

*Memories…good ones to warm me…bad ones to warn me. I thank God for both.

*Chocolate…the true angel food.

*Diet Coke…to help alleviate the guilt of the chocolate.

*Sunshine…to warm my skin and lift my spirit.

*Warm breezes...touching my face, tousling my hair, calming my heart.

*Rock and Roll…it really does sooth my soul.

*The written word…it frees my mind.

*Astounding sunrises…which start my day off with joy.

*Amazing sunsets…which give me peace as the darkness comes.

*The Geese…for their beauty and grace.

*Laughter…it really is the best medicine!

Be Happy!

To be or not to be...Politically Correct...

I was recently made aware (by a dear friend), that I have been guilty of being politically incorrect. I confess…I am.

In my estimation…”Politically Correct” has come to mean some very disturbing things. To be “Politically Correct”…is to never offend anyone, anywhere, anytime, in any manner…at any cost. I believe that the cost…is too high. In times past, facts were facts…truth was truth, right was right, and wrong was wrong. Not so anymore. Since the rearing of the ugly head of PC…we have become more concerned with verbiage…than with substance. We spend so much time, considering whether a statement is PC…that we fail to analyze whether the event that we are describing, is moral or ethical, whether it is right or wrong. We have sacrificed too much…in the quest to be known as a “Politically Correct” people. Like so many things…this concept has run amuck.

Lady Justice stands proudly…with her blindfold firmly in place. At her inception…she wore the blindfold…in an effort to convey justice and freedom…without discrimination. Perhaps we should add ear plugs and a gag…and a new meaning to her accoutrements. See no evil…hear no evil…and offend no evil.

I submit to you…that life…is not politically correct. While I do not suggest that we abandon all sensibilities…I do suggest a moratorium on “Political Correctness”…and a return to common sense, honest communication, decency, morality, and ethics.

Be Happy!

U S Airways...

As long as Muslims continue to blow themselves up...we will continue to fear for our own safety when confronted with actions such as the ones preceding the removal of the six Imams from the US Airways flight on Monday. What right thinking person wouldn't? How are we to know when they are simply praying for safety as they travel...and when they are 'cleansing' themselves in preparation for a suicide mission? The rest of the world should not be made to feel guilty, or ignorant...for acts of self preservation...such as ejecting suspicious people from a plane. Perhaps the Muslim community as a whole...is not at fault...but they need to wake up...and look at the state of this world in the light of reality. Are they really surprised that we...non-muslim people are suspicious of people who suscribe to a faith which tells them to kill the infidels...when we ARE the infidels? They have the right to believe what they want to believe...but they need to understand that in doing so...they also agree to accept the consequences of that freedom...just as the rest of us do!

Random thoughts...

I worry about things…it’s in my nature.

I worry that I will die, having left undone…all of those things that I keep putting off. That there will remain behind…dust bunnies under the bed, smudged up windows, and an overflowing junk drawer…and I will be remembered as a slob…whose only real attribute was procrastination.

I worry that I will die, having spent my time cleaning the dust bunnies from under the bed, washing the windows, and sorting out the junk drawer…and I will be remembered as that soulless person…who spent all her time cleaning stuff up…and missing out on life.

I worry that I laugh too much.

I worry that I don’t laugh enough.

I worry that I think too much.

I worry that I don’t think enough.

I worry that I will never find a job that I can find pleasure in doing…and be so inspired by…that I look forward to it everyday.

I worry that I will never see my name on the cover of a book…

I worry that if I do see my name on the cover of a book…it will be a sad, pathetic failure.

I worry that “Life sucks, then we die” may be true.

I worry that…that one person in life…who I strive so hard to please…may never be pleased…but will always ask…where the extra 3 points went…

I worry that…I worry...

It's coming....

'Tis' the season! Christmas is appearing in our house...a few items at a time!


A remote village...











A Wiseman, a shepherd, and travelers











The Angel, shepherd, and wisemen











The Holy Family











Be Happy!

What's a Heaven for....

The day dawned partly cloudy and mild, and has gone downhill from there. Weather wise that is…the day as a whole hasn’t been bad. I sat at the computer, taking online assessment tests for an interview tomorrow…until almost noon. Having finally completed them...I had a bite of lunch (baked potato and peas), then started my daily chores. Shane called from Vegas and we chatted for a bit, then I hit the shower about 1:40. After make-up and hair…I sat back down at the computer and made a somewhat lame attempt at a Christmas card list. As I set up my spreadsheet, Sugar sat on the foot of the bed…her chin resting on the windowsill…looking wistfully out. After only 6 entries…I began to feel guilty…she looked so sad! So, I put on my shoes and we went for a walk!

I must say, the walk was much more enjoyable than the spreadsheet! About 10 minutes into our stroll, the wind picked up and we could feel a bit of moisture in the air…although it wasn’t raining. We did not, however, let the unfortunate weather dampen our spirits…we walked the whole mile! Sugar sniffed every single mailbox, tree trunk, garden, water hydrant, pile of poo, and most of the blades of grass along the way! Although she eyed the honking geese at the pond warily, she made no effort to chase them…which surprised me! Along the route we were greeted by a school girl, who was absolutely taken with Sugar, and we paused to allow her to pet ‘that sweet dog’, we passed a group of city workers, who were putting up Christmas lights in the park, and a little ways in front of us was an older couple, walking a huge black lab. As we rounded the corner (almost home), the sun disappeared entirely, and we picked up the pace a bit…anticipating the warmth of the house!

Dinner is now in the oven, and I am strongly considering unpacking Christmas decorations! I have already set out a new ‘long legged’ Santa, and a couple of decorative gift boxes (adorned with Reindeer)!

Just a note…I am changing my tagline…from “Be Well!” to “Be Happy!”…as a personal admonition to everyone…myself included…to strive each day for every bit of joy possible! Of course…there will be days when we don’t achieve our goal…but…as Browning said “Ah, but a man’s reach should exceed his grasp, or what’s a heaven for?” So…keep your eye on the prize…whatever you judge that to be!

Be Happy!

Patriot Guard...

We attended the local Veteran’s Day parade today…an annual event honoring veteran’s of all wars. The parade was short…about 20 minutes…but it was nice. I’m not usually a very patriotic person…I love this country…I just don’t feel the need to wave a flag and shout out my loyalties. At any rate…the past two parades which we have attended have evoked a deep feeling of respect in me…for the Patriot Guard. I've been moved...almost to tears...as they ride by. I’ve been asking myself…why? It hasn’t taken long for the answer to become apparent. I have deep respect for them…because they have the courage of their convictions. They don’t just talk the talk…they go out of their way…to walk the walk. They grew tired of people who abuse the intent of our constitution…and instead of sitting around moaning about it…they acted…and continue to act. They rally together; in defense of those who are being harassed…they put themselves between the bully and his victims! I applaud them…and respect them! If only each one of us…could follow that example…myself included!

Be Well!

What a difference a day makes...

We awoke to a cloudy, dreary, blustery day...but the tree in the front yard continues to evolve! It is breathtaking! This photo doesn't do it justice.

Be Well!

From my desk...

Our baby tree...finally turned red...a bit behind her peers this year! The view from my desk is beautiful!




Be Well!

A Walk In The ...Dark...

My walk last night was a bit hairy. I went alone, and it was dark. I am a coward. Time to begin using the treadmill...for the winter...sigh. I despise daylight savings time...and winter.

My feet moved faster
As I strained to see…
Darkness pressing in
On all sides…an ebony
Weight on my countenance.

Shadowed trees in vague relief
Sinister bushes crouching low
Muffled noises in the night
The wind whispering “Run”
Into my terrified ears.

Heart racing…
Breath ragged and quick
Frustrating fear…one more
Blow to my sagging soul…

Be Well!

Tuesday tirade...

It’s finally here…Election Day! I am definitely interested in the candidates…and I hope all of mine are elected (yes…I can say all of MINE…because I voted)! Moreover…I am anxious to see the mud slinging…the endless political phone messages glutting my answering machine, and the ‘second grade mentality’ commercials…STOP!! If there had been one candidate, whose sole message addressed the issues (as I see them of course)…without any backstabbing, gloating, grandstanding, mudslinging or pontificating…I would have voted for him. Just a simple, “My name is Otis Fudpucker…I am pro life, pro family, pro democracy, pro death penalty, I have a brain, I do possess at least a modicum of common sense, I do not lie, cheat, or steal…and I will stand against those who do.” It would have been a done deal! Enough…thank heavens it’s almost over.

Thanks to the moron whose bright idea it was to ‘fall back’ (daylight savings time), my evening walk is now in total darkness…at 6:00 p.m.! What’s the deal with that? What earthly good does an extra hour of light in the MORNING do anyone? I can certainly drive to work in the dark…and I would rather have it stay dark until NOON…than get dark so early in the evening! This time of year depresses me anyway…but its effect is only worsened by depriving me of sunlight during the only time of day when I can ordinarily take advantage of it! So…to the HIICODST (head idiot in charge of daylight savings time)…WAKE UP DUMMIE…WE ARE NOT NOCTURNAL!

The world is out of control. Newscasters spew forth vitriolic rhetoric in the guise of reporting, casting dark shadows of doubt and betrayal on those foundational things that we hold most dear. One man’s idiocy and moral ineptitude DO NOT doom the entire Christian population to extinction. Child molesters and murderers are released into our society…then the justice system seems shocked and appalled when they molest and murder again. The real solution is to mandate that any future offenses of those pieces of slime who are released…be paid for by the idiot who released him. Thus…if a murderer or a molester becomes a repeat offender…the judge/attorney/doctor…who deemed him ready to walk among us again…would share equally in future guilt and punishment. By the way…I’m certain that Otis would be for this!

Lastly, as my tirade comes to an end…I would like to thank the neighbor down the street for unknowingly lifting my spirits…when I needed it so badly last night. We had walked along in silence for about a mile…the result of an earlier disagreement…which had been resolved…but was still causing that 'kicked in the gut' feeling. Although it was only 6:20…the darkness was thick…and heavy around us. The rhythmic sound of our footfalls, and the occasional barking dog split the night at odd intervals. I blinked back hot tears and wished for yesterday…or tomorrow…anything but now. Out of the darkness…a twinkle caught my eye. As we neared the front of the house down the block…we were caught totally off guard…by Christmas! The big picture window was filled with a glorious, sparkling, fully dressed tree! This magical scene spilled out into the yard, with lights, and ornaments. It was a small display…but so timely! I paused, not wanting to miss any detail, barely breathing, I whispered, “It’s beautiful!” My mate shook his head and rolled his eyes at the very thought that they already had 'that stuff' up. I smiled again…and thanked them…silently.

Be Well!

Uno...our way!

Last night was great! The kids came for lasagna and hot rolls, after which we sat around the table and visited for a while. After cleaning up the supper mess…we settled into a marathon Uno game!! It was fantastic!! For the next three hours or so, we laughed, threw marshmallows at each other’s mouths, created an entirely new vocabulary (not for the faint of heart), laughed until we cried, teased, taunted, discussed relatives-movies-news items-politics-religion…all with our own twist, oh….and played Uno too! About half way through the evening, we paused for dessert of fudge brownies topped with melted Hershey bars, with vanilla ice cream on the side! The introduction of more sugar took our already soaring spirits even higher, and our laughter echoed through the neighborhood in a maniac, symphonic cacophony!!

We haven’t had so much fun…since last week! I treasure nights like those, and I wouldn’t give them up for anything in the world!! If every family had times like these…the world would be a better, happier place!

Be Well!!

Just a thought...

A Footnote…

A footnote in the life and times
Of those we love so much…
Destined to the lonely realms
Of “I remember once…”

Life goes by in a swirling mist
Never slowing down…
A quick, hard ride…of hopes and fears
The end comes fast around.

When they stop to reminisce…
What thoughts will be of you?
A vague remembrance…lost in time
Or the lasting things you do.

The times you came and made them laugh
Or soothed a shattered soul…
Which things will slip away…and which remain
No mortal mind can know.

So do your best, laugh a lot
…If that be who you are.
Forgetting not, that in the end
We’re all just shooting stars.

Copyright©2006 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.

A novel....alrighty then...

A month ago, I was “let go” from my job. The day my employer let me go, he assured me that my job performance had been fine, and that I had been a “good fit” with the other employees…they simply didn’t have time to train me for the position that they hired me for, and had decided to hire a “trained, compliance officer” who had already been through the training, tests etc…and could just step in and take the position and duties over.

There were circumstances in play at the time (which are too lengthy to recount here), but suffice it to say that I strongly suspected that they might be in league with the employer who I had left to take that job…to teach me a lesson…and get even with me for leaving the first employer, and for filing a claim against him with the labor board. The first and second employers were “good buddies”, and had been for years.

Bear in mind that I have been gone for a month now…yet things continue to unfold. Below is the updated list of reasons that they claim for my dismissal, with the dates that each was added:

1– No time to train me (the reason that they gave me, when they let me go). Sept 29
2- Excessive use of internet and email (the reason that they gave the labor board in an attempt to keep me from collecting unemployment benefits).
Mid October
3 – They found out I was writing a novel (the reason they gave one of the brokers recently, when she inquired directly about my dismissal) November 2

Holy cow…I only wish that I were writing a novel! How bizarre is all of this?! To top it off…they posted an ad yesterday…online, for my position…with no mention of compliance training. All of this is, to me, further assurance that my original suspicions were correct. What I don’t understand, is why a group of professional, educated people, don’t have the sense to at least get together and decide on which lie to tell…and stick to it…together.

Be Well!

Halloween...

Today is Halloween…a holiday in which I do not participate. There are a myriad of reasons why I choose not to be a part of this ghoulish time…and most of you would disagree with all of them…so be it. There was a time when I went with the flow…the whole nine yards. Eventually, I began to see the world as it is…instead of as it should be…and I realized that many of the “fun, fictional, make-believe” things that are a part of this celebration…aren’t “fictional”, or “make-believe” at all…they are very real…and have nothing to do with fun.

This is not a veiled attempt to dissuade anyone from celebrating…I learned a long time ago that each of us must come to our own conclusions. I have no quixotic illusions of rescuing the human race from hell fire and damnation…no one will go to hell because they celebrated Halloween. But…I would say this…understand that things are not always what they seem, there is a dark, dangerous, side of this world, that far exceeds imagination in it’s abilities. Although it exists in a region…unseen by human eyes…its effect on us is unmistakable. Its devastation can be total, and its reach incomprehensible.
I’m all for a rousing, good time…I just prefer that my fun not revolve around demons…witches…and spirits from the nether regions.

Whatever your convictions, desires, notions, preferences, or plans for this day may be…be kind to those around you, be aware of your surroundings, protect those in your care, don’t be duped, and listen to your heart.

Be Well, Be Safe, Be Alert

Arka who ha...

Once again, the weekend has passed in a frenetic flurry! Our time at Arkalalah was everything we hoped it would be…and more! The hour and a half ride to Ark City, the five of us together, laughing, talking, remembering past Arkalalah’s…and laughing some more, set the mood for a day filled with laughter, good natured ribbing, and creation of new memories. We strolled through the people packed streets, soaking up the sights, sounds, and smells of this annual celebration…with the aura of the past surrounding us and filling those unoccupied corners of our minds. The aroma of funnel cake, cotton candy, roasted corn on the cob, and corn dogs…joined intermittently by the occasional wisp of cologne or perfume, mingled with faces of people whose names were long ago forgotten. Struggling to recall those names, we joined forces and managed to retrieve a few…a second grade teacher, a grade school friend, a former co-worker...but soon we realized that names didn’t matter…and we settled into the simple comfort of knowing that we were on familiar ground, in familiar territory, and we were one group…of hundreds…who had come home again. I would never want to live there again, but there is solace in knowing, that there exists a place…where familiarity greets us. A place where we can go when we choose…leave when we want…and still be welcomed as friends when we return. One small spot in the cosmos…that we can claim as our own.

God smiled on the day…giving us weather beyond all expectations…sunshine and warm breezes. The parade was predictable…floats, spectacular marching bands (as well as some spectacularly bad ones), color guard (who opted for sobriety this year), veterans of every age, beauty queens, un-beauty queens, Shriners of every description, The Patriot Guard, tiny ballerina’s, 5 foot fowl, military vehicles, antique cars, antique people, and…of course…lots of candy thrown from or by all of the above.

We ended the day with dinner at Green Door…a small, shabby, grungy, Mexican food establishment…with perhaps the best chips and salsa on the planet! In keeping with the theme of familiar things…the waitress reported to our table with our drinks already prepared (correctly)…without asking us what we wanted, though it had been months since we were last there! The only one that wasn’t on her tray…was Candy’s…and I would bet money that next time, hers will be there too!

The drive home was happy, tired, and contented…with just a tinge of sadness…to see Arkalalah behind us again.

Marvin preached at our old church on Sunday…filling the pulpit in anticipation of a new pastor coming next week! His sermon was good, interesting, and appropriate…calling the congregation to support the new man in his endeavors…and to hold him fast…to the authority by which he is called!

I missed our new church…which is a good thing.

That brings us to this morning…I went for my morning walk, greeted the ducks and geese, and am patiently awaiting a phone call to inform me that I have, or have not been chosen for the job which I interviewed for on Friday. I’m curiously calm about it…either way…life goes on.

Be Well!

Arkalalah...

It's been a fast week. I have sent out a lot of applications and taken a lot of tests this week...this afternoon I have an interview for a position in the accounting dept of a local manufacturing firm. I'm afraid they are going to want to pay me less than my unemployment...but we will see. Everything else about the job sounds good, so I'm fairly certain something will go wrong.

On the bright side...tomorrow we head for Arkalalah! It will be a long, exhausting day of walking endlessly, through hoards of people whose faces look familiar...but whose names escape us. That's what happens when you move away for 11 years. Still, we look forward to this annual trek...the 2 1/2 hour parade, craft show, street vendors, bands, and hoopla! We will end the day totally wiped out, but happy, upbeat, chatting like magpies all the way home! It will be a good day!

For some reason I'm down in the dumps this morning...I can't quite figure out why...but so far...I can't shake it. There's a bit of that 'kicked in the stomach' feeling going on too...heart pounding a bit harder than usual...and a bit faster. The day is dreary...lots of wind, mist, grey clouds covering us like an umbrella.

Be Well!

A flaming red tree...on my walking path...isn't nature fantastic!

Stolen...

Thanks Shane!

Q. What is your occupation?
My occupation right now is…homemaker…in search of gainful employment.
Q. What color are the socks you are wearing?
No socks - I'm in the house!
Q. What are you listening to right now?
Beatles…”Come Together”
Q. What was the last thing that you ate?
A handful of miniature marshmallows and two chocolate Hershey miniatures…
Q. Can you drive a stick shift?
Yep…but I’d rather not.
Q. If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
I’d be the color of a prism…does Crayola have that??
Q. Last person you spoke to on the phone?
Personnel Agency
Q. Do you like the person who sent this to you?
I stole it…from my son…who I love!
Q. How old are you today?
51
Q. Favorite drink?
Cold, fresh, water!
Q. What is your favorite sport to watch?
I don't watch sports
Q. Have you ever dyed your hair?
Repeatedly…
Q. Pets?
None right now
Q. Favorite food?
Chocolate
Q. What was the last movie you watched?
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Q. Favorite day of the year?
Christmas Day
Q. What do you do to vent anger?
Clean or walk
Q. What was your favorite toy as a child?
I didn’t have a favorite
Q. What is your favorite: fall or spring?
The flowers of spring, the leaves of fall…but spring wins over all!
Q. Hugs or kisses?
Depends on who they're from
Q. Cherries or Blueberries?
Cherries
Q. Do you want your friends to email you back?
Of course!
Q. Living arrangements?
Me and my husband…in a big ole house
Q. When was the last time you cried?
A few days ago
Q. What is on the floor of your closet?
Carpet…and shoes…and shoe boxes
Q. What did you do last night?
Went for a walk, watched TV, chatted on IM, went to bed and dreamed about aliens.
Q. Favorite smells?
I love the smell of Christmas…and clean sheets!
Q. What (who) inspires you?
My family, nature, humanity…
Q. Favorite dog breed?
I love almost all dogs (just not the mean ones)…
Q. Number of keys on your key ring?
5
Q. How many states have you lived in?
2
Q. What are you afraid of?
Snakes
Q. Ever driven heavy machinery?
Once…a big bus…does that count??
Q. What is your favorite hobby?
Writing, Reading, and people watching…

Be Well!

Godcidence....

Over and over, I have commented on the fact that, in this town, I never see anyone that I know…

We began the day by attending a baptismal service for some friends. The church that they attend is very large and holds three services to accommodate everyone…we were at the middle service…9:30 a.m. There we sat, waiting for the service to start…when our daughter noticed the names of a couple who we hadn’t seen in more than ten years. This particular couple had a very ‘remarkable’ history where we came from…having split up two families and devastated our church by having an extramarital affair, he being the pastor, and she the secretary. In the end, they divorced their respective spouses, married each other and disappeared into the sunset. Despite the fact that we were…sitting in church…our human curiosity got the better of us and we began to crane our necks…hoping for a glimpse of the wayward twosome. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a man and woman slide into the row in front of us and sit down…it was them. After the service, we exchanged handshakes and pleasantries…and left thinking about the strangeness of the encounter.

As we moved out into the hallway, we were greeted by a man who, only a few months ago had discharged my husband from his job of 11 years, during a downsizing. During the ensuing conversation, we found out that, after the company used this individual to do their dirty work, they let him go as well. Before moving forward even one more step…a friend of the ‘company man’ walked up and was greeted by my husband, my son, and the company man…whereupon each looked at the other in amazement as they realized that they all had this acquaintance in common.

We left church talking about the events thus far. We soon arrived at a local Bar B Q place for lunch…a party of 11. As we sat at our table eating and chatting, we looked up to see a couple who we had not seen in three years or so…standing in line to eat. Hugs and updates were exchanged over the next ten minutes or so!

What an odd world we live in. I can’t help but reflect on the particular people who we were brought in contact with today. I believe that things happen for a reason, so is it possible that…the couple who left church and community in disgrace…may have been a reminder that God has forgiven them…and we should too, the man who dismissed my husband…perhaps to remind us that we don’t have a solitary claim to hardship…even though it sometimes seems as though we do! And…the last couple…a bright spot…at the end of remembrance of more sobering times.

All of these things…after a communion service…This Do In Remembrance Of Me…Godcidence…if ever I saw it!

Be Well!

The Geese...

A cold, blustery day...

I headed out for my morning walk...still in a funk. Out of the blue...familiarity lifted me. The geese have returned...today!

Geese

In an ever changing world
Of discontent…
Familiar things…
Like balm to the soul.

Cold wind in my face
Uncertainty in my heart
I trudge forth…
Battling dark thoughts.

In the distance…
I see them.
Waddling, honking,
Old friends in a storm.

Normalcy…comfort…
A parallel universe,
In which…yesterdays peace
Still exists.


Copyright©2006 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.

Foggy Tuesday...

I found out yesterday that my former employer is contesting my unemployment compensation. After a bit of thought and going back through some paperwork…it has become glaringly apparent why…the ‘good ole boy’ network. It seems that the need to protect each other is more important than honesty, ethics, or human decency. In their quest to be sure that they ‘get even’ with me for leaving their good buddy…they are willing to band together and lie.

I knew that there was some animosity towards me…but I would never have dreamed that they would do something like this. I assumed that they were professional people…who would put aside petty nonsense and move forward…I was wrong. It’s frightening to think that people who handle other people’s money and financial futures…are so ready to be dishonest. I will not work for another broker.

I am fighting depression this morning in a big way. I want nothing more right now, than to crawl back into bed, cover my head up and stay there. I am fed up with trying to do the right thing, and being kicked in the teeth. I hate the stupid ‘games’ that people in office settings seem determined to play…why not just go to work, do the job, give those around you a hand…and go home? I’m tired…disillusioned…hurt…and angry. I really don’t want to try anymore…but…the sun is trying to shine (although, much like me, it is shrouded by a dense fog this morning). I will put on my freaking ‘big girl panties’, go for a walk, and hope that it helps. Life goes on…and on…and on.

Be Well

Fast visit...

Sunday evening and Rich's visit is almost over. We will miss him more than he knows! He has truly become a wonderful part of our family! It takes a special person to fit in with our nutty bunch...he is very special and fits in perfectly! I am sad to see him go... but I already look forward to his next visit!! We have been so blessed by him this week!

Be Well!

Saturday morning...

Hello world! It’s been a fast few days! Here’s a recap!

Wednesday- We made a “Welcome to Kansas Rich” banner and headed to the airport to finally meet face-to-face with someone who I feel like I’ve known forever! As Rich came down the aisle, he was greeted by five crazy people holding the aforementioned banner and yelling and waving! I think we surprised him!

Thursday-Marvin and I headed for the airport about 2:30, so that he could catch his plane to Chicago for a seminar. It turned out to be a very long afternoon! He got checked in, picked up his boarding pass, then after going through security…was advised that the flight had been delayed…from 4:45 until 6:30. Over the next couple of hours, that time was changed several times and he finally ended up boarding at 7:00…then sitting on the runway until 7:45. The nightmare wasn’t over….after a long wait in Wichita and the usual flight time, he arrived in Chicago to find about 200 people trying to hail cabs. The weather was cold and blustery, and he was tired and half sick with a dreadful cold. It was after 10:30 p.m. by the time he finally stepped into a cab! Meanwhile, I found out just how big and empty our house can be! I hadn’t been ‘on my own’ in over 30 years. I ended up reading until after 2 a.m.

Friday-I got up around 8:30, checked email, showered, dressed, then began working on my book. About 11:00 Shane and Rich came over and we visited for an hour or so, then went to Fazoli’s for lunch. Afterwards, we drove around the eastside of Wichita for a bit and stopped at World Market to look around. By 2:00 we were back at our house and talked and laughed and laughed and laughed! It was great! Rich is one of the nicest people I have ever met, and he fits right in with our family! It really feels like we have always known him! Shane and Rich left about 4:00 or so, to go let Sugar out, then we met Chas and Candy at River City Brewery for dinner at 5:00. After dinner, we headed back to Chas’s to kick back and relax for a bit. We met Harold and Diane at Bergman’s Corn Maze at 8:15 or so, and the evening began in earnest! We were equipped with flashlights, a map, and a list of questions to answer in order to find our way through the maze. It was totally dark by the time the driver dropped us off at the entrance to the field, and a chilly wind had begun to blow. We spent the next two and a half hours tromping through rows and rows of corn. As we came to each station, we read the questions, debated the answers, wrote them down, then looked to Harold for direction! We completed the first maze at 10:00, entered the second one, and completed it at aprox 11:00! By the time we got back in the car to leave, our feet and hands were numb with cold! We talked, laughed, screamed and joked and…even though it was freezing…we had a blast! After a very hot shower, a cup of steaming hot chocolate, and a piece of banana bread…I hit the sack at 1:15!

That brings us to now…Saturday morning! I have a few errands to run, then I will pick Marvin up at the airport at 4:00…unless his arrival is as hexed as his departure was! This evening, he will make a big pot of chili, and after church tomorrow, we will have everyone over for a cookout! I love having a houseful of people, so I am really looking forward to it!!

See ya on the flip side!

Be Well!

N-U-C-L-E-A-R...Heaven help us...

Too late…

Clouds are gatherin
Skies gettin dark
Tomorrow, my friends…
Won’t be no walk in the park.

Korea proclaims…
"We’re catchin up."
In the dead of night
The flume goes up…

Souls of Hiroshima
Cry out in pain…
"Oh God…
Don’t go there again."

From Iraq…
To Bunker Hill
We’re determined…
More blood to spill.

My own doorstep
Now cluttered with ghosts…
They litter the ground
And cling to the posts.

Children playin killing games
Schools under siege…
Babies flyin war planes
Men doin what they please.

Faster and faster
Out of control,
Where it’s gonna stop…
We already know.

Close your eyes
Pretend it isn’t there…
Next time you look
The world is bare.

Covered in ash
No one left…
Except the politicians...
Immune to death.

Copyright©2006 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.

Play by play...

7:25-Marvin left for work

7:30-Fixed a small bowl of instant grits

7:33-Ate my grits while I checked email/blogs…I do love grits!

7:40-Put on sweats, tennis shoes, and IPOD and went for my morning walk…it is fresh, quiet, and gorgeous out this morning.

8:12-Back from my walk, changed clothes

8:15-Began cleaning kitchen…wiping out fridge, cleaning appliance fronts, cleaning out coffee maker, emptying dishwasher, washing and drying kitchen floor, landing floor, bathroom floor

10:07-Just finished the above! I decided to rearrange the fridge (took out shelving and relocated it) and made the cold water container much more accessible! Also, cleaned the sliding door track…ehhhh! How does that stuff get in there?

10:10-Vacuuming house (upstairs and downstairs…and both sets of stairs)

10:15-There is enough hair in the bag to make a wig! Worked up the nerve to check the mirror…I haven’t gone bald…

11:00-Finally finished vacuuming!! There’s a lot of house here! I must have gotten too hot…stupid head is trying to hurt. Time for a cool shower.

12:30-The shower and a few minutes of rest seem to have taken care of the headache! Thank heavens!

12:50-Eating a bowl of chicken noodle soup while I peruse Career Builders .com…these are the tiniest noodles I have ever seen…

1:00-Filled out online app for FBI…I fear it was for naught

1:30-Cleaned my desk up…I’d forgotten what the top looked like

1:46-Stupid headache is trying to wack me again…better lay down for a bit

2:30-Headache gone again-decided to prune hanging plant in living room…I’m afraid I killed it. Mourning period of 5 minutes ensued…followed by interment in the garbage bin. Shuffling of other plants resulted in an appropriate replacement…I decided not to prune it.

3:30-I ran a pot of vinegar water through the coffee maker…it has run over twice in as many days, and, as expected, it began to run over immediately. I finally took the gasket around the inside of the lid out, and it seems to work fine now…so I ran three pots of fresh water through it…daring it to run over again. If it had…it would have joined the plant.

4:07-Just finished applying online for two more jobs. Time now to fix dinner!

Have a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious evening!!

Be Well!

No hump...

Here it is…Wednesday…hump day…and there is no hump. I spent the morning setting up a spreadsheet to accommodate my job search info, filling out applications to mail, registering with Kansas job link and Specialists Group. Did a bit of laundry, housecleaning, took lunch to Marvin, then stopped at Dillons for meds and food.

It is an absolutely glorious day outside! The windows are open and a fresh breeze is circulating the warmth and sunshine throughout! I cannot believe it is October 4th already! I shudder to think what Arkalalah holds…weather this mild now is probably only a precursor to a downhill slide! Be that as it may…I am still looking forward to that annual weekend of parades, concessions, seeing people that I can’t quite remember, and walking all day!

Dinner is in the oven…I have organized some of the chaos on my computer desktop, a new project is blooming in the back of my feeble brain…and my desk looks like a tornado hit it! All in all…a good and profitable day!!

Be Well!

Thank you Rich!!!

E-Mail Survey Time!
Put an X by all the things you've done, or remove the x from the ones you have not, and send it to all of your friends (including me). This is for your entire life.

( ) Smoked a cigarette
(x) Drank so much you threw up
( /) Crashed a friend's car(dad's car)
( ) Stolen a car
(X) Been in love
(X) Been dumped
(X) Quit your job
(x) Been in a fist fight
(x) Snuck out of your parents' house
(X) Had feelings for someone who didn't have them back
(/ ) Been arrested (taken in for questioning)
( ) Gone on a blind date
(X) Skipped school
(X) Seen someone die (Too many times)
( ) Been to Canada
( ) Been to Mexico
(X) Been on a plane
(X) Been lost
( ) Been on the opposite side of the world.
( ) Gone to Washington , DC
(x) Swam in the ocean
(X) Felt like dying
(X) Cried yourself to sleep
(X) Played cops and robbers
( ) Recently colored with crayons,
( ) Sang karaoke
(x) Paid for a meal with only coins
(X) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't?
(x) Made prank phone calls
(x) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
(X) Caught a snowflake on your tongue.
(x) Danced in the rain
(X) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(X) Been kissed under the mistletoe
(x) Watched the sun rise with someone you care about
(X) Blown bubbles
(x) Made a bonfire on the beach
(x) Crashed a party
(X) Gone roller-skating
(x) Ice-skating....

1. Any nicknames? Jodyo, Jo, Jo Jo
2. Mother's name? Ellen
3. What is your favorite drink? Water, Diet Coke
4. Tattoos? No
5. Body piercing? 3 holes in each ear
6. How much do you love your job? I don't have a job.
7. Birthplace? Coffeyville, KS
8. Favorite vacation spot? Beach
9. Ever been to Africa ? No
10. Ever steal any traffic signs? Yes and parking meters
11. Ever been in a car accident? Yes
12. 2 Door or 4 Door? 2!
13. Salad dressing? Buttermilk Ranch, Raspberry Vinaigrettee
14. Favorite pie? Pumpkin
15. Favorite number? 2,4,8,16,5,11,
16. Favorite movie? Too many favorites to list
17. Favorite holiday? Christmas
18. Favorite food? Real mashed potatoes
19. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
20. Favorite brand of body soap? Victoria's Secret Amber Romance
21. Favorite TV shows? Everybody Loves Raymond
22. Favorite toothpaste? Crest
23. Favorite smell? Christmas
24. What do you do to relax? Write, talk, walk
25. What do you want to say to all of your friends reading this? Hi!
26. How do you see yourself in 10 years? Still goofy
27. What do you do when you are bored? Clean, walk, sleep
28. Where is the furthest place this message will go? My blog

Monday, Monday...

The reunion service at Randall Road was…interesting. We saw lots of people that we hadn’t seen for a while, and heard three (that’s right folks…THREE) sermons in one service. The first sermon was from the interim pastor…very ‘old school’…holy cow…I could have done without that one! The second from a former pastor…again…holy cow. Then a mini sermon by his wife and a…song…of sorts. All of the aforementioned had the tone of a dirge. Finally, we got to the good stuff! Chas sang John The Revelator (which was awesome, and was also exactly the lift that the service needed)! Then Marvin took the pulpit and immediately changed the entire atmosphere with a little laughter and irony! He did an excellent job! I must say, for the first time since we left this church…coming back did not feel like ‘coming home’. I don’t like change…and it takes me a while to ‘move on’ when life throws curves in the road…but I think I finally have.

Unfortunately, during the song that she sang, Chas was hit by a blood pressure/blood sugar/anxiety combo that nearly took her down! After some rest and meds, she was good to go again!

Lunch was pizza at our house, then Marvin and Shane left to go work on Shane’s porch, Candy went home to take a nap, and Chas and I began to get ready for the evening concert!

The Rolling Stones were amazing!! The Stones have always been fantastic…but I never knew that Keith Richards was so awesome in his own right!! Oh my gosh!! He did a blues number that BLEW ME AWAY!!!!!!! The pyrotechnics were outstanding, and the crowd was in sync!! All in all…it was a perfect evening!! I think it may well have been the best concert that I have been to since I was a kid!!

I would be remiss, not to mention the opening band…Black Rebel Motorcycle Club! I heard lots of comments, while standing in line to enter the stadium…about how ‘we got ripped’ by the enlistment of an unknown band as an opener. I believe that we were pleasantly surprised! I definitely enjoyed their performance! They rocked the house for an hour…there wasn’t a body in the stands that wasn’t feeling the beat! I don’t think they will remain ‘unknown’ for long!

I don’t seem to have any words of wit or wisdom to offer this morning…just trying not to start the week in a funk. A hot shower, then a bit of housecleaning and exercise may be just what the doctor ordered!

Catch ya later!

Be Well!

No words...

I started the day with a job that I wasn't happy with...but at least it was a job. I ended the day...without a job. I was supposed to be trained to be the compliance assistant...a process that takes 6 months to a year to complete...as it turns out...they have decided that they don't have time to train...they want someone who has experience in compliance, is fully trained, has taken all of the tests, and can step in and take it over now. So...Monday begins a new job search.

I'm tired...and I am all out of words.

Be Well

Slide on the ice...

Tomorrow is Friday!! Thank you Lord! We're in the home stretch now guys!! Pull down your pants and slide on the ice!!!

Be Well!

Nostalgia...

Today was long. My mind kept wandering...back through the years. As hard as just 'being' was when we were children...I always thought that the bonds that kept us going through it all...would last forever. Somehow, along the way, my brother and sister have drifted off...I miss them.

For Ran and Toby…

Reminiscing softly…the past we didn’t have
Childhood lost to monsters in the night…
Fending off the demons, hand in hand,
Protecting each the other…fought the fight.

Much has come and gone with years
Love brought down the ugly walls…
Banished are those dark and lonely fears
Time worked its magic on us all.

To the darkness…I gladly bid farewell
With a joy my soul cannot contain…
But your voices and your presence
In my heart…forever will remain.

I miss the bond of love
Shared…all through those years
I miss your closeness,
Though I do not miss the tears.

If someday…again you need me...
Just know that this is true
I’ll be right here waiting…
It’s all that I can do.

Copyright©2006 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.

Be Well!

Sedgwick County Zoo...

We spent the afternoon and evening at Marvin’s company picnic, a good time was had by all! The temperatures were in the mid 70’s all afternoon, and it was perfect for wandering around watching the animals! I had heard so much about the elephants and their paintings, but I had never been privileged to see them do it before! Today, we watched Stephanie, a 35 year old elephant, actually paint! It was very cool! Both of the elephants were in fine form and were absolutely endearing!! I have always had a soft spot for elephants though…so perhaps endearing is in the eye of the beholder. We saw everything…and walked forever!

Around 5:30, the company served Bar B Q for dinner. I normally have a difficult time getting to know people, but a very nice couple (the wife works closely with Marvin in the office) sat down at our table and struck up a conversation with us! Before we knew it, we were chatting and laughing and really enjoying their company!

Shortly before dinner, the temperature had begun to drop, and by the time we were finished eating, we had begun to shiver! People began to disburse quickly! I think it could have gone on for another hour or so…if there had been coffee and hot chocolate! We got some nice shots of things that we saw today, and I have posted them above!

Be Well!

I found this poem this morning...it is beautiful! I just wanted to share!!

To Daffadills

Faire Daffadills, we weep to see
You haste away so soone:
As yet the early-rising Sun
Has not attain'd his Noone.
Stay, stay,
Untill the hasting day
Has run

But to the Even-song;
And, having pray'd together, we
Will goe with you along.
We have short time to stay, as you,
We have as short a Spring;
As quick a growth to meet Decay,
As you, or any thing
We die,
As your hours doe, and drie
Away,
Like to the Summeres raine;
Or as the pearles of Mornings dew,
Ne'er to be found again.

Robert Herrick.

Catch ya on the flip side!

Be Well!

Looooooong day.....

After the longest day ever…it was thankfully time to go home!! Eggs, pancakes, and bacon for supper, then chores!

Marvin closed the pool for the season while I gave my bamboo plant a clean vase and fresh rocks, emptied all of the trashes, pulled the cart to the curb, and swept the kitchen!
A productive evening all around!

About 7:30, I headed out for my evening walk. Determined to stay the course tonight, I cranked up the tunes and, for the first time since my bathtub acrobatics, went the entire distance! I was limping by the last couple of blocks…but this too shall pass! I feel really good that I didn’t wienie out on the last third of my usual route (like I have been), but I am pooped out!

A summary of the week thus far…work sucks…but the time after work has been great! Fabulous temperatures…sunshine…lots of fresh air dancing through the house…those things combined always energize me!! I love this time of year! I am so looking forward to the fall colors, as summer says goodbye. I am so NOT looking forward to the gray…blustery…frigid days ahead…when winter says hello. Although, I must admit, the thought of that first glittering snowfall…is nice.

Be Well!


Would you…

If you could..
In the course of a day…
Influence a child
In a positive way…

Make someone’s life
Seem better somehow…
Help them to see
Beyond here and now…

Rid your own soul
Of idiot fray…
Squash every moron
Who gets in your way…

Would you in fact
Effect all these things…
Or is there contentment
That imagining brings?

Copyright©2006 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved

Slow down...

Here it is...blue Monday again. Mercifully, it's over. However, not before I was yelled at by the president of our clearing house...and not before I hurled a nasty (though tactful) remark about him in the direction of one of the partners...and then found out that they are personal friends. I have a knack for inopportune moments...I'm remembering the Bobby Love incident...!

Don’t run so fast...

Sometimes, in the blur of the day
We lose our will to find the way…
If indeed, it matters at all,
It’s in the handwriting…on the wall.

Lost in the swirl of do’s and don’ts,
Straddling the fence of will’s and won’ts…
Anxiety reigns, have we lost or won,
In the master plan, it’s already done.

So why do we bother to shed these tears
To fret, and panic, and struggle for years…
The decision is made…the dye is cast
Slow down…don’t run so fast.

Copyright©2006 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.

A great weekend!!

We arrived in Kansas City Friday evening around 9:30! On the way there, we decided to play with my new GPS…who I had nicknamed Lydia. As we entered the KC area…she told us where to turn and how far to go…every few minutes. Shane began to turn the opposite direction deliberately to see what it would do! It was hilarious…and a bit scary!
She knew EXACTLY where we were, each time we turned…even after a hasty ‘U’ turn in the middle of a street!!

Saturday was spent shopping and eating! We enjoyed both tremendously! We found a new outdoor mall called “Legends” that we had never been to, and by the time we left, I had a sweater, Chas had several kitchen items, Shane had a shirt, and Candy had TWO pairs of shoes (you go girl)!! We ate lunch at a place called “Cheeseburger Paradise” apparently somehow affiliated with Jimmy Buffet (not a football player). The food was great, and the entertainment was awesome! A strolling balloon aficionado stopped by our table and made a huge pair of lips with a large pink balloon tongue coming out between them (all fastened on to a balloon ‘hat’, for the birthday boy (Shane), and then we watched him manufacture a parrot, several monkeys, a jayhawk, a ‘Dr Seuss’ like hat, a brain sucking alien, and a host of other things…for other patrons! He was amazing!

The rest of the afternoon consisted of more shopping (at an indoor mall). Then, Birthday dinner at Cheesecake Factory, and back to the hotel. It was about 8:00 when we arrived back at the hotel, and we were all pretty tired. Chas went on up to the room to shower and rest a bit, but the rest of us (having gotten a second wind on the ride back) went for a walk on the plaza! What a great place! Lots of great shops, street performers, and freaks!! We wound down around 9:15, went back to the room and watched a bit of TV, ate some of the best birthday cake in the world, then hit the sack late.

We headed out for breakfast and the ride home around 10:00 this morning. The ride home was a lot longer than the ride there…as we were all tired and not looking forward to the chores that awaited us at home.

That brings us to now…5:58 P.M. Sunday evening. Upon our arrival, we dug right in, and in 2 ½ hours, we had dusted, vacuumed, shampooed the living room, hallway and upstairs carpets, unpacked, cleaned out the fridge, done laundry, and put dinner in the oven!

It was a really nice weekend! I thoroughly enjoyed it all! We needed some fun, ‘down time’ and we got it! The rest of the month is booked…office picnic, Michael W Smith Concert, Rolling Stones Concert…then October begins…already half full as well, culminating with Arkalalah on October 26th! The next few weeks/months will pass in a flurry of activity!

I have to end this post with an observation…from the heart. Every time we are privileged to spend time with our kids…I am reminded again of how blessed we are! As our kids were growing up, they were great! Kind, sweet, intelligent, wonderful kids! They have become adults…in what seems to have been ‘the blink of an eye’. They have both grown into the most responsible, sweet, kind, thoughtful, successful, fun loving, and ‘fabulous to be with’ adults that I have ever known! We are blessed beyond belief!

Be Well!

Downs...and Ups.....

This has been a long, tired, but productive week! Here are the highlights and lowlights!

-Low light-The cable guy came to Shane’s house this evening to install cable at the other end of his newly renovated bedroom…and broke a water pipe under the house.

+High light - Shane’s bedroom looks fantastic! After two days of work (that’s with all three of us…he actually worked on it for a couple more days before we got there), it is an amazing transformation! I have always thought it was a really cute house! But it’s even better now!

-Low light – I had a ‘set back’ that I honestly thought might land me in the hospital by Thursday afternoon. The pain was severe.

+High light - After two doses of meds…I am good to go again. Moral: Don’t stop taking your meds because you feel better…take them until they are gone.

-Low light – I had an interview for a possible position as a copy writer. Unfortunately, the company looks very ‘temporary’. It would not surprise me if they disappeared in the night sometime. Probably not a good place to risk our financial future.

+High light – I had an interview for a possible position as a copy writer. They said that they thought the sample that I wrote for them was excellent! Maybe there is hope yet, that I will someday make a living doing what I love to do!

Tomorrow is Friday!! Yea!!! By this time tomorrow evening, we will be almost in Kansas City for the weekend! We all need some down time…some FUN down time!!

Be well!

More whining...

Today was my first day at work after the fateful shower. It was a looooong day! By the time I got home...my entire leg was cramping. I ran a hot bath, grabbed a couple of magazines and some cherry juice...and relaxed for quite a while, in the tub! I feel much better now!!

I seem to be experiencing an odd phenomena though..it started a few minutes ago...my leg muscles are twitching like there is no tomorrow. I do believe they have a mind of their own! Or perhaps they are just tense from the day. At any rate...I think I had better sign off and take a muscle relaxer...and put my feet up for a bit!

Celebrate Friday!!!!

Be Well!

A bit better...

After 2 days of meds...I do feel a bit better. Tomorrow will be a rough day though. It still hurts to sit, and it hurts a LOT to stand after sitting for very long. So, I will stand frequently, and get through it.

Today has been a more productive day. I still have not taken the pain meds, I just see no sense in taking them if I don't need them. The pain that I feel is not good, but it is not so bad that I can't bear it. I am so susceptible to meds that it has taken all day for the last muscle relaxant to wear off enough that I don't feel 'hazy'. I cannot go in to work tomorrow...dealing with other people's money...in a fog.

I have been able to accomplish some writing today! It has been a while since I was able to just sit down and take the time to get in the proper frame of mind to work on the book. I have finished about three more chapters! I feel very good about that! I very much want to finish it, and every time I successfully complete any portion...it is extremely satisfying. At the end of the day...I doubt very much that I will ever find a publisher who is willing to take it on, but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

I've often wondered, why my brother and sister and I went through the things that we did as we were growing up. We were only children...all we wanted was to be loved, to be cared for, and to feel secure. The things that everyone wants. We were denied those things, often suffering brutality, and hostility that still haunts us. Over the years, I have had several opportunities to help people who have lingering pain from their own childhoods. Most of the time, the only help that I can give is to let them know that I have been where they are, and I understand, and can listen with compassion. I could not do those things, if not for my own experiences.

The season's of our lives are unpredictable at best. Just remember that without the storms, and clouds...the sunshine and rainbows would seem mundane.

Be Well!

Muscle relaxers...

I got up this morning intending to go to work...then get in to the doctor as soon as possible. By the time I was almost there...I realized just how much I was hurting. The parking lot may as well have been a billion miles across. I called and let them know that I was heading on over to the doctor instead.

After three exrays, the doctor pronounced me injured...but not broken! That was a relief! Although she said that a break would heal a good deal faster. She gave me a muscle relaxer, an anti-inflammatory, and a pain med.

Around 11:00, I took the muscle relaxer and anti-inflammatory, then laid back down on the heating pad. Marvin came in for lunch about 11:45, and by 12:30, I was fast asleep...and didn't wake up until after 4:00. I feel like I lost the day entirely. I had intended to get in some reading and perhaps some writing...neither happened.

My leg is already a bit better, so maybe tomorrow I won't need the muscle relaxer. I don't think I will take the pain med...I'm afraid I would sleep for the rest of the week.

It sounds like both Shane and Chas are a bit under the weather today as well. Both with stomach trouble...although not presenting in the same way. Hopefully...everyone will heal quickly and we will all be back on track in a day or two!

I think it would be unwise to sit much longer...so here's to better days!!

Be Well!

Becky...

In her eyes, confusion, bewilderment, lost memories. Her voice quivers a bit. She no longer walks alone. She shows no fear. A good life behind her, no regrets. The time is drawing nigh. Somewhere deep inside…she is secure in the hereafter…she longs for release from pain, humiliation, and frustration. Her heart won’t let go…of so much. Darkness comes more often now. The terrifying monster of obscurity threatens to overtake her mind…but she fights the good fight…a valiant warrior. With all eighty pounds of her being…she struggles…minute by minute. Keenly aware of life…she laughs, and talks of the ‘future’ in terms of ‘when’…not ‘if’. She is the epitome of selflessness...clothing already given to the needy…birthday calendars left for him to use…pictures distributed…finances in order. She awaits her unfuture, with unbelievable grace.

Weekend wrap up...

It's been a good weekend overall! I needed the time away from work...but it has gone sooooo quickly! The visit on Friday/Saturday with my dad and step mom was good...although sad. The doctor says 4 - 5 months...I will be surprised if we have her that long. She is deteriorating rapidly now. Although my dad is physically healthy...he is an emotional wreck...as we all would be (and sometimes are). I wish we lived closer, so that I could run over in the evenings and help out, or just spend time with them...but, that isn't the case.

Those of you who know me...know that I am the queen of klutzville. I had an accident Saturday morning that reminded me just how coordinated I'm not! Suffice it to say that showers are slick! I had no idea that my leg could twist so far backwards without coming off! I have also become painfully aware that shoulders/arms/ hips...do not provide sufficient buffering for slamming against porcelain! I am doing better this morning...I can sit almost flat in the chair...but I still have a definite 'hitch in my git along'!

I missed church on Sunday due to the inability to sit/stand/walk without gasping. I did a bit of hobbling while I waited for Marvin and the kids to get home for lunch though...and baked a chocolate cake and ordered pizza. Good food and lots of laughter brightened the day!

Bringing us to the here and now! The last day of a long weekend! I so dread going back to work tomorrow...but that is the way of life. I have been writing more lately than I had been for a couple of months, and I am enjoying that...sometimes it takes the edge off of an otherwise excruciating week. I still have one poem out from my last round of submissions...as soon as that comes back, I will send out more. I know...I am a glutton for punishment! My file of rejections is growing exponentially! I guess there are two ways to look at that: (1) I am a total failure, or (2) as long as I am receiving rejections...I am at least trying! I prefer the later! Although...I am fully aware of the probability that at some point I shall have to concede to the former. I shall not go quietly into the night!!

I guess I will sign off now...my hiney hurts! I think I need to walk around a bit.

Be Well!!

Ooooooooooveeeeer...the hump...

This has been a ‘not good’ day. I made two mistakes at work today…they were both minor…but none-the-less…they were there. There isn’t room for much error in this business.

I sometimes wonder if I am really cut out for the ‘human race’. I don’t seem to be able to settle down into a normal routine of contentment, instead…I am filled with resignation. My family life is the only good thing that I can see, and it is awesome! I have the most wonderful husband and kids that anyone could ever hope to have. But I cannot seem to find a work niche that I am happy with.

Time rushes by with terrifying speed. I see those around me enjoying their jobs…even committed to them. Meanwhile, all I can think of is being somewhere else. I feel restless. I know this isn’t normal…but then…what is ‘normal’? Who knows…certainly not me.

I am sorely tempted to do something bizarre lately. Although…it’s really not in my character. The last time I felt this way, I was at Wal-Mart. The kids had both moved out, and I felt at loose ends. On a whim, I decided to have the tops of my ears pierced…thank heavens the woman at the jewelry counter wouldn’t do it. She said she wasn’t able to pierce the cartilage…so instead…I had another set of holes in my lobes (I now have three in each ear). I don’t regret the holes in my lobes…but I think I would have regretted piercing the tops of both ears…it would have looked perfectly ridiculous (at least on me).

It would be so great to be one of those ‘spur of the moment’ people. Wouldn’t it be grand to get up off the couch in the middle of the Friday night news, pack a change of clothes, a razor and a toothbrush, jump in the car and drive somewhere fun…somewhere that you’ve never been before! Then spend the weekend just ‘being’ there…no schedule, no agenda, no itinerary.

I know that most of these feelings (except the work stuff) are very much related to my step-mom preparing to die. I see her mortality looming like a monster in the dark…and it is causing me to feel the reality of my own. Hence…the sense of restlessness, and the desire to make more out of every moment.

This too shall pass.

Be Well!

Recap...

Weekend recap:

Saturday – This was the week for my Writer’s group meeting, so sleeping in wasn’t an option. I got up at 7:45, showered, and headed off at 9:30. The meeting was good! When we began our meetings, I wondered how long we would actually continue…it has been more than a year now and we have only missed a couple of meetings! I think that forming this group has been good for everyone involved…it keeps us writing! That may sound odd…but in these busy times, it is often very difficult to find/make time to write (even for those of us who love to do it). Knowing that there is an appointed time and place during which we will share our efforts…gives us an extra ‘push’!

After the meeting, I went grocery shopping. That part of the day was horrendous! A simple trip to the grocery store provides one with a disgusting picture of what our society has become! Somewhere along the way, manners, common courtesy, and parental responsibility have all gone by the wayside. As I pushed my cart through the aisles, I encountered several groups of children, running (some with a cart), yelling, and causing all sorts of chaos, and adults who were riding those motorized carts, with absolutely no regard for other shoppers. One in particular really ‘fried my rice’! She had driven the cart to the absolute center of the aisle…then she got off of it…leaving it parked in a position where no one else could proceed up or down the aisle…while she strolled along both sides of the aisle shopping. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAArgh! By the time I got home…my mood was thunderous.

We put groceries away, then headed to TGI Friday’s for lunch! The food was great (I had the Tilapia), and the atmosphere was just what we both needed! After relaxing and chatting for over an hour, we drove to Newton in search of a rack for utensils for the kitchen. We didn’t find what we were looking for, but we did find a new blender, and some knick-knacks! Then we headed back home for a bit of house cleaning and preparation for Sunday.

Sunday – Sunday was a very good day! I actually found myself ready for church 1 minute early (instead of 5 minutes late)! The sermon was long, it seemed to go on forever…but that could have been just me. I have the attention span of a gnat, and my mind very often runs amuck. After church, the kids came over to the house for lunch! We had Rotel dip, taco’s, refried beans, and for dessert…smoothies and cheesecake! Yum!! We talked, and laughed all afternoon! It was wonderful!! Around 4:30, the kids left and Marvin and I spent the rest of the evening watching TV, then went to bed around 9:30!!

That brings us to the here and now…Monday, Monday, Monday. It seems like Monday arrives quicker than any other day of the week!! It is the most dreaded day of the week, the most depressing day of the week, and the most hated day of the week…but without it…we would never get to Friday!

Be Well!!

From hell...

Friday at last. Cloudy, heavy, thick with humidity and innuendo…both climatically and socially.
Lunchtime was a veritable disaster. I left work with no idea what I wanted to do…my first mistake. As I drove down Rock Road, I remembered Jason’s Deli, and a baked potato sounded good…so I turned in. I parked right in front of the door, went inside and got in line. I found myself behind ‘Paris and her sidekick’. There they stood…huge Louie bags over their shoulders…mandatory flip-flops, manicured, pedicured, Revloned, streaked, and fake baked. In no hurry at all….because they had all day to linger over lunch and spend ‘daddy’s money’ on expensive crap…they couldn’t decide what to eat. FINALLY, my turn came. I hurriedly ordered ½ a baked potato and a medium drink. Food in hand, I turned to the dining area to find that the only table available was straddling a pole…I took it. On one side sat two foreign men, discussing ‘hot women’ in loud tones…on the other side…ma and pa kettle, in town fur the day!

I shoveled in a spoonful of cheese covered baked potato…which turned out to be totally tasteless. I accepted it as part of this lunch hour from hell, and reached for my iced tea. One big gulp of tea almost caused a very ugly scene. The moment it hit my throat…it tasted like stale cigar smoke. My mind went into overdrive… those horrible stories about what the cooks in restaurant kitchens do to food before serving it (spitting in it…or the famous ‘fecal chili’) spun through my brain…out of control! I gagged as I imagined a cigar butt bobbing around inside the metal tea urn.
Unable to get the despicable image out of my mind…I trashed my lunch and left. Once in the car…I headed for the parking lot at Home Depot, where the Heavenly Snow trailer is parked. Glancing at my watch, I saw that I still had 30 minutes left. To my despair…Heavenly Snow is no longer open all day…they are now open from 2:30 – 9:00 p.m.! Good grief Charlie Brown! As I lamented the events of this day…I heard a ‘ding’…my gaslight had come on! “Fine,” I thought, “to heck with lunch…I’ll head to QT and get gas.” The precious minutes were ticking away rapidly by this point. Wheeling into QT, I realized that every stinking pump was backed up…all the way to the street! Gas was down to $2.59 a gallon! I frantically searched for a short line…there were none! There was no time left for lunch, and certainly no time for sitting in a long line at a gas pump! I drove out…past all of the anxious drivers…their eyes glazed over at the thought of saving all that money! At the last moment, I threw caution to the wind, pulled into the drive through at Braum’s and got a yogurt twist, which I slurped down as I drove. I got back to my desk with about 30 seconds to spare.

What a day!
Be Well!

Stolen from Rich...just for fun!

Here are some things you may or may not know about me:

Four jobs I have had in my life:
1- Assistant Cashier/Compliance (admin assist)
2- Delivering phonebooks
3- Barmaid/bartender
4- Production line in mobile home window plant

Four movies I would watch over and over:
1- Monty Python and the Holy Grail
2- Miracle on 34th Street
3- Elf
4- It’s a Wonderful Life

Four places I have lived:
1- Wichita, Kansas
2- Arkansas City, Kansas
3- Winfield, Kansas
4- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Four TV shows I watch:
1- America’s Got Talent
2- The Closer
3- 24
4- Everybody Loves Raymond

Four places I have been on vacation:
1- Las Vegas, Nevada
2- Los Angeles, California
3- Jacksonville, Florida
4- Orlando, Florida

Four of my favorite foods:
1- Chocolate
2- Potatoes (fixed any way)
3- Ice Cream (lactose free)
4- Cheesecake

Four places I would like to be right now:
1- At Barnes and Noble signing my best seller

2- At home doing anything (except vomiting)

3- In my attorneys office, figuring out how to best proceed with my 30 billion dollar lottery winnings (which I won…of course…with a ticket given to me as a gift).

4- Leaving on a jet plane for a month long vacation to a sunny beach. Somewhere with clear, blue water… fine, clean, white sand…tall palm trees…a private cabana…and an endless supply of yogurt smoothies and crushed ice drinks (nabs of course).

Be Well!

Hump Day...

I know this is called hump day…but if feels more like ‘insurmountable mountain’ day. This entire week seems to be dragging in the most horrific way!
Here’s a recap of the week thus far –

Monday – Long, very busy day at work. Short handed and chasing our tails. Mimi’s after work to have my nails soaked off and a new set put on. Dinner at Red Rock…THAT was yummy! By the time we got home, it was late, and we were both pooped! Talked to mom and step-dad – and dad and step-mom. The news was not good for my step-mom…she is increasingly exhausted, and the decrease in her speech skills and memory is marked, even on the phone.
I couldn’t sleep, so I took an Excedrin PM about 11:00…woke up on Tuesday groggy.

Tuesday – Another long day at work…though they all are lately. We went straight home after work and I fixed dinner there for a change. Penne pasta w/sausage, buttered peas, and cornbread. Marvin had lunch with the pastor today, and the result was interesting. He was asked to preach the early service on Sept 10, at our new church…in view of a possible call (at a later date) as associate. He will also preach the ‘reunion’ service on Oct 1, at our old church. I think that God has given him a time of rest…and may now be calling him back to service. We will continue to pray about it and see what develops. The highlight of my day was a call from Shane about a mini Yorkie! Apparently, a friends, friends, sister…has one that she needs to get rid of in order to relocate! The price is right, and if it is housebroken…we will definitely make an offer! I am very excited! I love dogs and have missed having one!
I had a bad backache when I got home from work, and it hung on all evening. I don’t normally have backaches…so that is very unusual. I spent the evening leaning against a heating/vibrating pad. No Excedrin PM tonight, but…not much sleep either.

That brings us to today…Wednesday – Another long day…it is 11:45 a.m., and it feels like it should be 5:00! Lots of scuttlebutt around. Not sure where lunch will be yet…or if it will be. I don’t feel particularly hungry right now…my stomach hasn’t been very happy for a week or so. I may try the new deli down the street…or I may go to the mall and walk.

2:06 – In an effort to calm my stomach…I opted for a baked potato at the deli. My co-worker has gone home sick, and one of the broker’s is ill. Not a good sign!!

3:51 – Back from the bank. Everything has slowed down again…HURRY 5:00!!
Be Well!

A lovely way...

A lovely way to start the weekend! I slept until 10:30! I have been exhausted for a week, with frequent headaches and migraine meds. I needed some extra rest!

We had a wonderful evening Friday! The kids came over for dinner (lasagna and garlic/cheese toast), then we watched "RV" with Robin Williams! It was hilariously stupid, and we all laughed until we cried! After the kids left, Marvin and I went for a late night swim! The water temperature was perfect, and lightening in the distance (moving in the opposite direction) added to the ambiance! It was delicious and refreshing! Although I slept well, I woke up around 3:00 with another headache. I thought about more meds, then opted for more sleep...it seems to have worked!

I don't know what the day will hold, I have no 'plan'! I am just happy to not be at work, or in the middle of a crisis of any sort.

I will sign off for now, and take a long shower, give myself a pedicure, and go from there!

Have a great day!

Be Well!

America's Got Talent...but no judgment...

My faith in humanity has taken another hit. Bianca won...holy cow. I may not watch next season. Hang in there Miller!! You are destined for greatness!

On the flip side...our Rolling Stones tickets are in!!! Yea!!!!!!!! Oddly enough...so are our Michael W Smith tickets! These two concerts couldn't be more different...but they will both be a blast!! The dichotomy is astounding!

The search for gainful, rewarding, enjoyable employment continues. I have a job, so I don't feel the urgency of hunger forcing me to 'settle'. I do, however, feel an urgency of a different kind. Time passes so quickly...days become weeks, weeks become months, months turn into years. Even the minutes slip by with dizzying swiftness. I don't want to spend the remainder of my 'allotted time' on this earth, stuck in a daily routine that I don't enjoy. I had a dream of sorts a week or so ago. I dreamt that I had found the 'perfect' job. My title was 'Story Lady', and I went to 4 daycare centers each day. At each one, I would walk in, roll out a big piece of carpet, and then all of the 4 and 5 year olds would sit around me. First, I would read them stories, from big, colorful books...about Fred, and Bertha, and magic gnomes. Then, using a big dry/erase board, pictures, and props...we worked on the alphabet...and phonics. The centers each paid me $25.00 a day to come in and help prepare the kids for kindergarten. (The dream was very detailed.) It was awesome!

Then I woke up. At first I was really excited...then as I REALLY woke up...I realized that no day care would hire me to do those things...that's what they have staff for. It was good while it lasted!

Tomorrow is Friday...thank heavens!!

Be Well!

Monday blues...

What a day. Work was terribly busy, and I am finding out just how much I don't know about the securities business. It seems that, at every turn...there is more to learn.

I am constantly learning more about the human condition as well. There is more drama going on in this office than on any soap opera that I have ever heard of. I DO NOT want in the middle of it, but I have been approached repeatedly by both sides...hoping for my allegiance. I just want to do my job and go home...and not be miserable in the interim.

My neice will go home from rehab tomorrow. 17 years old, and already all of this baggage. She is bright, sweet, talented, and full of potential...unfortunately...it may never be realized. When I look at her, I see that little, shy, blond headed girl...who even then looked at the ground most of the time. I wonder where she went...I know she's still in there...I just hope she can find the boldness to come out and take her life back.

Please pray for her...God changes lives every day...it's what He does.

I'm tired...all over.

Be Well!

A great turnout...

The party for my stepdad's 75th birthday was a big success! The ad in the paper was small, and the picture was bad...evidenced by the fact that 2 people came to the party, thinking that they were going to celebrate the birthday of a different Bill Rowe. After finding out that they were in the wrong place...we offered them cake and punch and were more than happy to have them join in the festivities...but both declined.

We had 60-70 people in attendance throughout the 2 hour time slot, and almost all of the cake and 2 bowls of punch were devoured. The luau theme was great and even the children seemed to be having fun! We had the opportunity to visit with several family members that we had not seen in well over a year!

I don't know how many more birthdays we will have the privilege of celebrating with him...but I am glad that we made this one special! He is definitely one of a kind, and I am grateful that he came into our lives all those years ago!

Be Well!

Poor Fred...

Poor Fred...rejected again...by a great publisher though!

Fred

The lights were all off
The day over and done,
My mind was all filled
With laughter
and
fun!

The darkness and shadows
Intruding and scary,
I started to think...
Of monsters...
all spiny and hairy.

The clock said "tick tock"
The shutters they creaked,
I pulled the blanket up tight
The wind started to shriek.

I waited in terror
For demons unknown,
From hunchbacks to boogie men
My
Worried
Mind
roamed.

From somewhere quite near
I heard a new sound,
Gripping the bed clothes...
My heart started to pound.

I strained...
And I listened...
I wanted to hear,
The source of the sound...
Became suddenly clear.

It was not in the closet...
But under the bed,
Not at the foot...
But up by my head!

I sat bolt upright!
Trembling and cold,
Frightened and scared,
And not very bold...

A bit louder it came then...
A sob and a whimper,
"I'm frightened, and chilly,
and I've got a big blister!"

My mind all confused
I hadn't a clue,
As I thought and I pondered
What now to do...

Up on my knees
I crawled to the edge,
Resigned to do battle
U
N
D
E
R
the bed.

I slid to the floor
And took a deep breath,
Consumed by the fear
Of a horrible death!

I yanked up the bedspread,
Then, fell back on my hiney...
There, rolled in a ball
Was a monster...
All shivery and whiney.

My eyes took him in
From the tips of his paws,
To his small,
purple
chin.

His eyes were as big
As two saucers could be,
His arms were quite l o n g…
Well past his knees!

I looked on in wonder
And, frankly...in envy...
As his big, floppy, striped ears
Perked up...
to hear me.

He shook and he shivered
His long arms hugged himself,
"Are you cold?" I inquired...
Afraid for his health.

"Oh yes," he replied,
"Really quite so! And I'm frightened,
and lonely...from my head to my toes!"

"Is it possible..." I asked,
“do you think it could be...
that we could be friends?
best friends...you and me?"

He cocked his bright orange,
Fur covered head,
At a
comical
angle
u
n
d
e
r
the bed.

He closed one green eye
In a humorous wink...
Then he smiled,
and I saw that his teeth
Were bright pink!

I reached
out
my
hand,
And losing my dread,
I asked him his name
And he answered me...
"Fred!"

I took his green paw
And gave it a tug,
He scurried on out
And we stood on the rug.

"It's time for bed, Fred"
I told him quite sternly,
"We must get to sleep now
for morning comes early!"

We climbed in...
underneath the big quilt,
And we talked and told stories...
And we laughed and we squealed.

I'm not afraid now,
For the truth is...you see...
My monster, my best friend,
My protector
is
he!

Copyright©2006 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.

Another one bites the dust...

Another weekend...all but gone. They pass so quickly! Church was good this morning...although...I almost fell asleep during the sermon...my fault...not the pastors. Lunch was at Freddies, and the chili cheese fries were great! Then on the the movies... where we saw Taledaga Nights, The Ballad of Ricky Bobby. It was really funny! Unfortunately, I fell asleep there too. I don't think I slept long though...the kids realized that my eyes were closed, and woke me up!

The coming week promises to be a long, hard one. The girl who is training me will be gone Friday, Monday, and Tuesday...very scary! I hope I don't screw up too much stuff while she is out.

We stopped at Party City and bought decorations for my step dad's 75th birthday party, which will be next Saturday. We decided on a Luau theme! I think it will be fun! I don't know how many of his friends are still living, but I hope that we have a good turnout! He is a great guy...doesn't know what a 'stranger' is...and would help anyone, anywhere, anytime!

Hopefully, we will head to bed around 9:30...I would hate to continue my 'sleeping spree' at work tomorrow!

Be Well!

A full day!

Saturday was a full day! Marvin got up early (6:45), and I slept until 8:30! After cooking breakfast (crazy mixed up eggs...not googy...and biscuits), we cleaned house like crazy! Our spotless spree extended to the pool, and by 1:00, we had cleaned it and spent about an hour in it to boot!

We thought that the kids might come and swim, but by 2:30, we decided they must have other stuff going on today, so we got out of the pool and headed to town. First stop was Hobby Lobby, where I bought some new frames for pictures of both kids and Marvin, so that I can take them to work with me! Then, on to Verizon for new phones (our plan had expired). We ended up with really cool phones! We both got Razor phones, with photo capability, and we also took advantage of the 30 day trial period for the GPS feature. For those of you who know me...I can get lost in a circle drive...it's pathetic! Hopefully, this will help...we'll see. We bought the extra package, with a blue tooth...which was so darn large that it fell off of my ear (and would not adjust down), but it fits Marvin very well. The photo feature is very cool, however...the voice recognition feature sucks! I could not get it to recognize anything I said (including a few...unseemly...things that I asked it for after major frustration set in).

The whole Verizon experience took over 2 hours...and by the time we got home...I had a dang migraine. I spent the rest of the night on the couch with an ice bag on my head! It is just now feeling a bit better!

Chas did come to swim while we were gone, and left a movie for us to watch that we have been wanting to see. Thanks Susie Q!

Gonna call it a day...hopefully this stupid headache will be gone when I wake up!

Be Well!

Almost over...

It's almost Friday! Yea!!! My step dad is doing well, and hopefully will get to go home tomorrow! My step mom is home from the hospital...and despite another fall, this one in the shower...she is doing well also. It has been a very long week!

The new job is going okay. I have experienced a lot of new things this week...it remains to be seen how many of them I actually 'learned'. Hopefully enough to form a solid base for my position. We'll see.

There seem to be lots of questions from co-workers about my previous employer...all of which I have answered in general, un-informative ways. I will not carry information...or tales...from office to office. It has been interesting though...on top of the questions about my previous boss...one woman came up to 'warn' me about someone else in the new office. I listened...thanked her...and went on about my business. Today, the woman she warned me about, came to me to 'warn' me about her and another co-worker...holy cow! Doesn't anybody just simply do their jobs...collect their wages...and go home anymore?? Is every office a mini Peyton Place?

We got about two inches of rain last night...the thunder rumbling in the distance was nice, and the cooler temperatures have been great today! I am looking forward to a nice weekend...sunny, temps in the mid 90's...maybe a little pool time...definitely some writing time!

Here's to resolution of last weeks concerns...and hope of brighter days ahead!

Be Well!