Christmas is over and New Year's Eve is tomorrow! How fast time flies! The holidays were excellent and the snowfall just prior to Christmas added to the festive atmosphere! Christmas eve and Christmas morning were especially wonderful! Having the kids both here, and waking up in the early morning to the excitement of stockings, wrapping paper, laughter, camera flashes and love is so very special, and there are not words to describe how blessed I feel !
A combination of the busy hustle and bustle, a lack of funds and our desire not to pack on extra pounds this year, resulted in not doing some of the things that have become traditions in our family...and I missed them!
1-Our annual overnight shopping trip to Kansas City.
2- Our mother/son & father/daughter day shopping event (usually the week before Christmas).
3-Our candy making evening.
We did celebrate the holidays with Marvin's family, and although we were able to spend a couple of hours with my mom and step dad, my siblings and my dad were unavailable.
The past year has been a challenge financially, but, after tomorrow, that situation should improve as I begin working full time again! It has been a worrisome year, but in the long run, it should be a good thing for us, providing not only more income...but better, more affordable insurance and a return to retirement saving as well!
Chas, Shane,Marvin and I are entering this year a bit more svelte than last year! Chas has lost almost 90 pounds, Shane is down over 40, I shed more than 30 and Marvin lost over 15! If you have the need for dieting help...we highly recommend sparkpeople.com!
The past year has seen lots of illness and time spent in hospital rooms and beside sick beds. Losing Becky was very hard, and we miss her chatter and never ending supply of energy very much! Helen is much improved and her pacemaker finally seems to be doing its job! Bill is very ill, and we count every day of life for him...an extra special blessing.
I have been thinking about New Year's resolutions...and here is a partial list...
1-I resolve to spend as much time as possible with my husband and kids...they are my everything!
2-I resolve to tell all three of them that I love them every chance that I get and to hug them as often as possible!
3-I resolve to KEEP the weight that I have lost off!
4-I resolve to try each day to be more open to and aware of the needs of those around me...especially those less fortunate...and to be willing to help whenever I can.
The list will continue to grow...well into the New Year!
I wish you all a very Happy New Year, full of love, life, happiness and Gods blessing and mercy!
Be Well!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Thursday, December 20, 2007
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...
...everywhere you go! What a beautiful time of year! Driving down the streets is like visiting wonderland! Lights and decorations everywhere! It is fabulous! Cries of Merry Christmas echo through the halls and spill into the streets, kindness and generosity permeate every heart and calories are graciously removed from all things chocolate! If only this spirit could remain throughout the year...what a wonderful life it would be!
Be Well!
Be Well!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Weekend winding down...
Sunday afternoon...the weekend is almost over and although it was actually three days this time, it seems so short! I think we made good use of almost every minute available over the past few days, though there remains much to be done.
Friday: We spent Friday Christmas shopping, except for an hour and a half...which we set aside to see "I Am Legend". It was a really good movie, and if you don't mind a bit of sci-fi sort of stuff...(which I enjoy), I highly recommend it. We headed home around 4:45, just as it began to snow. My office Christmas party was at 6:00, so we had just enough time to get home, change clothes, freshen up and head back out! The party was nice, and surprisingly, the food was good (even though it was catered by a local grocery store). The Mayor promised to get everyone "fed, gifted and on the way home" before the roads got too slick and she did a good job! By 7:30 we were back in our living room picking out a movie to watch!
Saturday: Saturday found several inches of snow on the streets, so we waited until almost 2:00 before leaving the house, in hopes that street crews would have the chance to salt everything before we got out...and the roads were in good shape! We did a bit of shopping, then stopped at Kobe's for dinner around 5:00. (Thank you Rich!! It was delicious!) The temps were dropping, and rather than end up sliding into someone as the slush refroze, we went home.
Sunday: We decided on the early service at Church, then went to McAlisters for lunch, and shopped a bit afterward at Gordman's. We spent the rest of the afternoon here at home, wrapping up some work gifts and computer work. At 6:00 this evening, we have another Christmas party (for the Park and Tree Board, of which I am recording secretary).
The coming week promises to be a busy one! I love the Christmas season! It is my favorite! I love the shopping, music, movies, decorations, food, good will, fun and most of all...the family time! Every year I am more aware of those around us who don't have such a wonderful Christmas, and this year, as we drive down Broadway and see those who are homeless and those who line up to eat at the Lord's Diner, my heart breaks. This has been a financially strained Christmas for us...but when I see those who have no homes, and when I realize that those lining up at the Diner may be receiving their only meal of the day...I feel guilty for bemoaning our own "tight finances". I have determined to help someone this week...in some way. I don't have the resources to do anything huge...but help doesn't always have to be huge. So, I will be watching for an opportunity! I encourage you to do the same. After all...we have received the greatest gift of all for Christmas...our Saviour! It only seems fitting that we pass along a bit of kindness whenever we can!
Be Well!
Friday: We spent Friday Christmas shopping, except for an hour and a half...which we set aside to see "I Am Legend". It was a really good movie, and if you don't mind a bit of sci-fi sort of stuff...(which I enjoy), I highly recommend it. We headed home around 4:45, just as it began to snow. My office Christmas party was at 6:00, so we had just enough time to get home, change clothes, freshen up and head back out! The party was nice, and surprisingly, the food was good (even though it was catered by a local grocery store). The Mayor promised to get everyone "fed, gifted and on the way home" before the roads got too slick and she did a good job! By 7:30 we were back in our living room picking out a movie to watch!
Saturday: Saturday found several inches of snow on the streets, so we waited until almost 2:00 before leaving the house, in hopes that street crews would have the chance to salt everything before we got out...and the roads were in good shape! We did a bit of shopping, then stopped at Kobe's for dinner around 5:00. (Thank you Rich!! It was delicious!) The temps were dropping, and rather than end up sliding into someone as the slush refroze, we went home.
Sunday: We decided on the early service at Church, then went to McAlisters for lunch, and shopped a bit afterward at Gordman's. We spent the rest of the afternoon here at home, wrapping up some work gifts and computer work. At 6:00 this evening, we have another Christmas party (for the Park and Tree Board, of which I am recording secretary).
The coming week promises to be a busy one! I love the Christmas season! It is my favorite! I love the shopping, music, movies, decorations, food, good will, fun and most of all...the family time! Every year I am more aware of those around us who don't have such a wonderful Christmas, and this year, as we drive down Broadway and see those who are homeless and those who line up to eat at the Lord's Diner, my heart breaks. This has been a financially strained Christmas for us...but when I see those who have no homes, and when I realize that those lining up at the Diner may be receiving their only meal of the day...I feel guilty for bemoaning our own "tight finances". I have determined to help someone this week...in some way. I don't have the resources to do anything huge...but help doesn't always have to be huge. So, I will be watching for an opportunity! I encourage you to do the same. After all...we have received the greatest gift of all for Christmas...our Saviour! It only seems fitting that we pass along a bit of kindness whenever we can!
Be Well!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Poor Marvin...
Those of you who know me well...also know that I have a tendency to blurt out whatever is swirling around in my brain...with no warning or explanation. Poor Marvin was reminded of that particular flaw of mine a couple days ago.
We were watching a news cast about a sports arena ( I don't remember the location) where fans gather in a certain area of the arena and essentially go nuts during breaks in play. The area is a spiral walkway leading from the lower level to the top of the stadium. It seems that fans gather at the railing and scream obscenities, throw beer cans and bottles, spit beer and yell for women to bare their breasts (which they do). After the story, one woman who had been caught up in their reveling by accident was interviewed by a reporter afterwards:
Reporter: What was going through your mind while all of the yelling was going on?
Woman: Oh...I was repulsed...it's absolutely disgusting! But...it's just men being men.
I sat on the footstool listening to her say "It's just men being men..." and my brain flew into a rage! I could not believe that she had the nerve to lump all men into such an outrageous statement! I wondered if she had a husband or son...and if she did, why it hadn't occurred to her that by making such a statement, she was indicating that her own men were degenerate perverts as well...after all...they are men. I could not believe that she was basically excusing the behavior of a bunch of people who needed kicked in the butt because of their gender! And...I wondered whether this woman might be blind...had she not noticed that about half of the participants were women?! My anger intensified as I thought about the way that women are often lumped into one huge category of ignorant, helpless, weak beings...by narrow minded people. And how that stereotype is perpetuated by women who ACT in those ways because they think it will further some agenda they have.
All of this occurred in a matter of seconds as we sat there together watching TV, and suddenly it spewed out my mouth.
I whirled around to face my husband, and snarled, "SO, HOW DOES THAT MAKE YOU FEEL?"
His face was a total blank and his eyes were huge, but there was no audible response.
"DOESN'T THAT PISS YOU OFF?"I hissed, "A STATEMENT LIKE THAT SHOULD MAKE ALL OF YOU MAD!"
I paused and waited. During this pause...the look of confusion and fear on his face finally registered in my brain and I started to apologize...but suddenly the humor of it all hit me and I couldn't stop laughing.
I finally managed to explain that I had not meant my question for him personally...but rather...I was wondering how men in general feel about such things. He's been a bit skittish every since.
Be Well!
We were watching a news cast about a sports arena ( I don't remember the location) where fans gather in a certain area of the arena and essentially go nuts during breaks in play. The area is a spiral walkway leading from the lower level to the top of the stadium. It seems that fans gather at the railing and scream obscenities, throw beer cans and bottles, spit beer and yell for women to bare their breasts (which they do). After the story, one woman who had been caught up in their reveling by accident was interviewed by a reporter afterwards:
Reporter: What was going through your mind while all of the yelling was going on?
Woman: Oh...I was repulsed...it's absolutely disgusting! But...it's just men being men.
I sat on the footstool listening to her say "It's just men being men..." and my brain flew into a rage! I could not believe that she had the nerve to lump all men into such an outrageous statement! I wondered if she had a husband or son...and if she did, why it hadn't occurred to her that by making such a statement, she was indicating that her own men were degenerate perverts as well...after all...they are men. I could not believe that she was basically excusing the behavior of a bunch of people who needed kicked in the butt because of their gender! And...I wondered whether this woman might be blind...had she not noticed that about half of the participants were women?! My anger intensified as I thought about the way that women are often lumped into one huge category of ignorant, helpless, weak beings...by narrow minded people. And how that stereotype is perpetuated by women who ACT in those ways because they think it will further some agenda they have.
All of this occurred in a matter of seconds as we sat there together watching TV, and suddenly it spewed out my mouth.
I whirled around to face my husband, and snarled, "SO, HOW DOES THAT MAKE YOU FEEL?"
His face was a total blank and his eyes were huge, but there was no audible response.
"DOESN'T THAT PISS YOU OFF?"I hissed, "A STATEMENT LIKE THAT SHOULD MAKE ALL OF YOU MAD!"
I paused and waited. During this pause...the look of confusion and fear on his face finally registered in my brain and I started to apologize...but suddenly the humor of it all hit me and I couldn't stop laughing.
I finally managed to explain that I had not meant my question for him personally...but rather...I was wondering how men in general feel about such things. He's been a bit skittish every since.
Be Well!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Dance With All Your Might...
Years end coming quickly now
As years are wont to do…
My inside eye relives the past
In shades of bright and blue.
The universe has handed out
What things it stored for us,
In that great cosmic sense
…All we have is trust.
Looking back with heavy hearts
Sorrow clouding what we find,
Seeking hope for what comes next
Retreading paths…behind.
While death looms in the shadows
To snatch one held quite dear…
A new life waits just in the eves,
Impending birth is near.
There is no way to gage events…
Which haven’t come to pass,
Except to say the future is
More fragile than blown glass.
Hold tight until the days are gone,
Cling fast unto the night…
Don’t live life in a quiet haze,
But dance with all your might.
Copyright©2007 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.
Years end coming quickly now
As years are wont to do…
My inside eye relives the past
In shades of bright and blue.
The universe has handed out
What things it stored for us,
In that great cosmic sense
…All we have is trust.
Looking back with heavy hearts
Sorrow clouding what we find,
Seeking hope for what comes next
Retreading paths…behind.
While death looms in the shadows
To snatch one held quite dear…
A new life waits just in the eves,
Impending birth is near.
There is no way to gage events…
Which haven’t come to pass,
Except to say the future is
More fragile than blown glass.
Hold tight until the days are gone,
Cling fast unto the night…
Don’t live life in a quiet haze,
But dance with all your might.
Copyright©2007 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.
An icy day...
The weather outside is frightful...
The electric heater is delightful...
I have a million places to go...
Ice is falling, if only it were snow.
(My apologies to Mr. Cahn and Mr. Martin)
What a day! The temperature is hovering just above the freezing mark (thankfully), and the rain has taken a short hiatus. Trees, shrubbery, etc. are white and heavy with ice and I fear that my Pampas Grass is ruined. There are times when Kansas is a hateful place to live...this is such a time!
I arose early and as soon as Marvin was off to work, I showered, fixed my hair and put on my face, in case I was called in to work for someone who could not navigate the roads. The expected call did not come...due to rising temps and melting ice. So...since I was ready to roll...I did! I made an early stop at Wal-Mart (which was almost empty), then headed over to my nail salon to have a new set put on. To my dismay, my salon was closed (probably due to the forecast of an inch of ice), so I ended up at California Nails in the mall. The nail tech was very nice and extremely competent...but after having the same people do my nails for more than ten years...I felt as though I were cheating on someone. Yes...I felt like a nail slut.
The roads were not bad...but the potential was there. If the temperature falls, the coating of ice will be thick and swift. So, rather than risk an accident, I headed back home and after a quick bite of lunch (baked potato, peas and cottage cheese), I made a call to a certain government agency, to see if I could rectify...or at least understand...a little situation which has developed between my mother and said agency. In the end, I got a bit more than I expected...but I have to say that the person who assisted me was extremely helpful and...believe it or not...I did NOT lose my temper. However, I am now even more perplexed at the financial problems plaguing my parents. I am wondering whether financial counseling is in order...rather than assistance.
A few observations for the record...
1)Life really isn't fair.
2)No good deed goes unpunished.
3)James Taylor was right "When you're down...nobody gives a damn anyway."
However...what goes around comes around.
Be Well!
The electric heater is delightful...
I have a million places to go...
Ice is falling, if only it were snow.
(My apologies to Mr. Cahn and Mr. Martin)
What a day! The temperature is hovering just above the freezing mark (thankfully), and the rain has taken a short hiatus. Trees, shrubbery, etc. are white and heavy with ice and I fear that my Pampas Grass is ruined. There are times when Kansas is a hateful place to live...this is such a time!
I arose early and as soon as Marvin was off to work, I showered, fixed my hair and put on my face, in case I was called in to work for someone who could not navigate the roads. The expected call did not come...due to rising temps and melting ice. So...since I was ready to roll...I did! I made an early stop at Wal-Mart (which was almost empty), then headed over to my nail salon to have a new set put on. To my dismay, my salon was closed (probably due to the forecast of an inch of ice), so I ended up at California Nails in the mall. The nail tech was very nice and extremely competent...but after having the same people do my nails for more than ten years...I felt as though I were cheating on someone. Yes...I felt like a nail slut.
The roads were not bad...but the potential was there. If the temperature falls, the coating of ice will be thick and swift. So, rather than risk an accident, I headed back home and after a quick bite of lunch (baked potato, peas and cottage cheese), I made a call to a certain government agency, to see if I could rectify...or at least understand...a little situation which has developed between my mother and said agency. In the end, I got a bit more than I expected...but I have to say that the person who assisted me was extremely helpful and...believe it or not...I did NOT lose my temper. However, I am now even more perplexed at the financial problems plaguing my parents. I am wondering whether financial counseling is in order...rather than assistance.
A few observations for the record...
1)Life really isn't fair.
2)No good deed goes unpunished.
3)James Taylor was right "When you're down...nobody gives a damn anyway."
However...what goes around comes around.
Be Well!
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Both!
2. Real tree or artificial? Artificial…I hate stepping on pine needles hidden deep in the carpet (in June).
3. When do you put up the tree? Immediately following Thanksgiving!
4. When do you take the tree down? Sometime after New Year…and it’s a sad day!
5. Do you like eggnog? I LOVE IT!!
6. Favorite gift received as a child? I loved every gift that I have ever received!
7. Do you have a nativity scene? We have several nativity scenes, some are complete nativity sets and some are Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus only.
8. Hardest person to buy for? Everyone…I’m always afraid I will buy something they will hate.
9. Easiest person to buy for? Children…they like everything!
10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I never received a bad Christmas gift!
11. Favorite Christmas Movie? Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, A Christmas Story and It’s a Wonderful Life!
12. When do you start shopping for Christmas? After Thanksgiving.
13. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Nope.
14. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Fudge, divinity, candy strawberries, cherry mash, candy canes, peppermint sugar sticks, brownies, pumpkin pie and of course chocolate covered or chocolate dipped…anything.
15. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear this year…but colored some years.
16. Favorite Christmas song? I love almost all Christmas music! However, “Walkin Round In Women’s Underwear” cracks me up!!
17. Travel for Christmas or stay at home? Both…travel before Christmas, home Christmas eve and day, and travel after Christmas!
18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Clumsy, Grouchy, Snoopy, Shaggy, Scooby, Andy, John, Paul, Ringo and Rudolph.
19. Angel on the tree top or a star? Uh…neither…is that required?
20. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning of course!!
21. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Shortage of money and grouchy people bringing me down.
22. What I love most about Christmas? Family and giving things to people that I love!
23. Do you do stockings? Of course!
24. Do you ever peek at hidden gifts? Never in my life…I adore the suspense and surprise!!
Be Well!
2. Real tree or artificial? Artificial…I hate stepping on pine needles hidden deep in the carpet (in June).
3. When do you put up the tree? Immediately following Thanksgiving!
4. When do you take the tree down? Sometime after New Year…and it’s a sad day!
5. Do you like eggnog? I LOVE IT!!
6. Favorite gift received as a child? I loved every gift that I have ever received!
7. Do you have a nativity scene? We have several nativity scenes, some are complete nativity sets and some are Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus only.
8. Hardest person to buy for? Everyone…I’m always afraid I will buy something they will hate.
9. Easiest person to buy for? Children…they like everything!
10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I never received a bad Christmas gift!
11. Favorite Christmas Movie? Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, A Christmas Story and It’s a Wonderful Life!
12. When do you start shopping for Christmas? After Thanksgiving.
13. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Nope.
14. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Fudge, divinity, candy strawberries, cherry mash, candy canes, peppermint sugar sticks, brownies, pumpkin pie and of course chocolate covered or chocolate dipped…anything.
15. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear this year…but colored some years.
16. Favorite Christmas song? I love almost all Christmas music! However, “Walkin Round In Women’s Underwear” cracks me up!!
17. Travel for Christmas or stay at home? Both…travel before Christmas, home Christmas eve and day, and travel after Christmas!
18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Clumsy, Grouchy, Snoopy, Shaggy, Scooby, Andy, John, Paul, Ringo and Rudolph.
19. Angel on the tree top or a star? Uh…neither…is that required?
20. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas morning of course!!
21. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Shortage of money and grouchy people bringing me down.
22. What I love most about Christmas? Family and giving things to people that I love!
23. Do you do stockings? Of course!
24. Do you ever peek at hidden gifts? Never in my life…I adore the suspense and surprise!!
Be Well!
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Friday eve...
Here it is...a whole week since I blogged the last time! I can't believe how time gets away from me. A weird day at the office today...lots of gossip and anger...at the boss...who was off today. I have been fortunate to escape most of the ugly stuff so far...because I'm only there four hours a day. It dawned on me today that, starting in January...I will be in the eye of the hurricane with everyone else. Life is weird.
Be Well!
Be Well!
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Thus far...
Thus far this week has been uneventful. The weather is cold (in my humble opinion) and November is finally upon us. The trees are changing rapidly now, after only just beginning a few days ago, and I fear that the amazing hues of Autumn won't last long.
Last night was Halloween, which we do not celebrate (go ahead and call me a stuffy, right wing, conservative, fanatic, freak...I don't care). We did celebrate for years, with everyone else and had a grand time! However, there came a point when we felt a personal conviction to avoid this particular holiday...and that is that! I don't look down on those who do the Halloween thing...it just isn't our thing anymore. In leau of trick or treaters we attended a revival meeting at a small Baptist church (Marvin's pressman invited us). The entire experience made me remember why I appreciate Glenville Church so much!
Work has been somewhat odd this week. Special Council meetings scheduled, then cancelled, lots of phone calls from people with weird questions and requests, stinky folks at the counter and of course the inevitable personality clashes and quirks. Tomorrow is Friday...I work all day tomorrow and I have no doubt that it will seem like the longest day ever. I hope that we are absolutely inundated with those paying water bills, that's the only way the hours will EVER pass!
I am looking forward to the weekend...no particular reason...other than the alarm not ringing at 6:15 a.m.!
Be Well!
Last night was Halloween, which we do not celebrate (go ahead and call me a stuffy, right wing, conservative, fanatic, freak...I don't care). We did celebrate for years, with everyone else and had a grand time! However, there came a point when we felt a personal conviction to avoid this particular holiday...and that is that! I don't look down on those who do the Halloween thing...it just isn't our thing anymore. In leau of trick or treaters we attended a revival meeting at a small Baptist church (Marvin's pressman invited us). The entire experience made me remember why I appreciate Glenville Church so much!
Work has been somewhat odd this week. Special Council meetings scheduled, then cancelled, lots of phone calls from people with weird questions and requests, stinky folks at the counter and of course the inevitable personality clashes and quirks. Tomorrow is Friday...I work all day tomorrow and I have no doubt that it will seem like the longest day ever. I hope that we are absolutely inundated with those paying water bills, that's the only way the hours will EVER pass!
I am looking forward to the weekend...no particular reason...other than the alarm not ringing at 6:15 a.m.!
Be Well!
Monday, October 29, 2007
Arkalalah and other stuff...
After a long week of hospital waiting rooms, stress and worry, Arkalalah was a welcome relief! Marvin's mom is now out of ICU and back on the regular floor, doing well! Here is a brief rundown of the weekend behind us:
Saturday - We left early Saturday morning, stopping briefly at the hospital to check on Helen, who was doing well, then headed to Chas's house to meet Chas and Shane, and picked Candy up in Derby. After a short visit with my mom and step dad in IXL, we finally arrived for the 76th Annual Arkalalah celebration, the theme of which was "Seuss On The Loose", in honor of (who else) Dr. Seuss! We spent the first couple of hours walking the streets, passing people whose faces were familiar, but whose names we lost in oblivion. We cruised through the craft show without buying a thing, then headed back downtown for lunch from street vendors. After stuffing our faces with all sorts of junk (much of it on sticks), we settled in to watch the two hour parade. The theme of the day was well carried out by all participants and with the exception of a couple of gaps in the parade line, it was a huge success! As the parade concluded, we made our way to Green Door for dinner, followed by a tired, but contented drive back to Wichita. I don't think we could have mustered another hours worth of energy among the five of us!
Sunday - Sunday morning found us sleeping in until 9:15 or so, then we took in a really badly made movie, followed by really badly made eggs and biscuits. By the end of the day, we had accomplished several chores, including catching up the weekend laundry and finally closing the pool for the season!
The highlight of Sunday was watching Jimmie Johnson take not only the lead, but the race, in his eighth victory of the season at the Atlanta Motor Speedway! Johnson succeeded in closing the Gordon-Johnson point gap to a mere 9! Meanwhile, Jr. gained some meaningful face time with a fellow driver as he careened down the speedway backwards after losing his left rear tire.
We concluded the weekend with pumpkin pie and coffee, on the deck with a roaring blaze in the fire pit. All in all it was a great weekend!
Be Well!
Saturday - We left early Saturday morning, stopping briefly at the hospital to check on Helen, who was doing well, then headed to Chas's house to meet Chas and Shane, and picked Candy up in Derby. After a short visit with my mom and step dad in IXL, we finally arrived for the 76th Annual Arkalalah celebration, the theme of which was "Seuss On The Loose", in honor of (who else) Dr. Seuss! We spent the first couple of hours walking the streets, passing people whose faces were familiar, but whose names we lost in oblivion. We cruised through the craft show without buying a thing, then headed back downtown for lunch from street vendors. After stuffing our faces with all sorts of junk (much of it on sticks), we settled in to watch the two hour parade. The theme of the day was well carried out by all participants and with the exception of a couple of gaps in the parade line, it was a huge success! As the parade concluded, we made our way to Green Door for dinner, followed by a tired, but contented drive back to Wichita. I don't think we could have mustered another hours worth of energy among the five of us!
Sunday - Sunday morning found us sleeping in until 9:15 or so, then we took in a really badly made movie, followed by really badly made eggs and biscuits. By the end of the day, we had accomplished several chores, including catching up the weekend laundry and finally closing the pool for the season!
The highlight of Sunday was watching Jimmie Johnson take not only the lead, but the race, in his eighth victory of the season at the Atlanta Motor Speedway! Johnson succeeded in closing the Gordon-Johnson point gap to a mere 9! Meanwhile, Jr. gained some meaningful face time with a fellow driver as he careened down the speedway backwards after losing his left rear tire.
We concluded the weekend with pumpkin pie and coffee, on the deck with a roaring blaze in the fire pit. All in all it was a great weekend!
Be Well!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
And so...
It's been a while since my last post...no apologies...just life. This has been a busy time for our family, as this time of year always is. The weather has completed the transition from Indian Summer to Autumn and leaves are finally beginning to don their fall colors. I detest the cold, I abhor wet, dreary days and I absolutely pine for sunshine! That being said...I also adore the magnificence of fall foliage and I do find the sound of winter winds whipping around the house, as we snuggle up inside, oddly comforting. Each season has much to offer...some just require a bit more effort in defining those offerings.
We spent last weekend on the road, attending a wedding in Missouri on Friday evening, then continuing on to Coffeyville to spend Saturday night with my dad.
The wedding was very pretty, as weddings tend to be. The Bride, of course, was radiant...and the Groom very handsome. Instead of a Unity Candle, the couple chose to do a Sand Ceremony, which I had only seen previously on television. It was very cool and I would recommend it to anyone in the 'market' for such a thing. Shane and Candy nearly outshone the Bride and Groom and were by far the most attractive couple in the room, and Chasity turned heads all evening with her new figure and hair style and was the most attractive single gal there!
Before leaving Missouri, we stopped at a place called Lamberts (Home of Throwed Rolls) for lunch. It was probably the most unique place that I have ever eaten at! After ordering a meal from a vast selection of comfort foods, a cart laden with big, soft, warm, yeast rolls appears and the waiter begins throwing rolls across the room to anybody who wants one! Shortly after he moves on...along comes a girl holding a metal container full of mollasses...and drools it on your rolls!!! It was soooooooooooo yummy!! In the midst of all of this...our meals were delivered...followed by more servers carrying metal bowls containing the stuff dreams are made of...fried potatoes and onions...black eyed peas...etc. It was a dieters nightmare!! We threw caution to the winds and ate ourselves silly!
Upon arriving in Coffeyville, my dad took us on a driving tour of the devastation resulting from flood waters a few months ago. It was extremely interesting and heartbreaking at the same time! The depth of the floodwaters was over 6 feet in some areas...and in many areas was combined with a nasty oil slick from the local refinery...which sprung a leak adding to the disaster. Altogether, at least 350 homes and 75 businesses were destroyed. Amazingly...only one life was lost.
Saturday night found us at the home of my dads new girlfriend, where we cooked steaks out on the patio and enjoyed an evening of conversation and relaxation! We met some of her friends, which she fondly calls "The Yaya's", and I swear to you...one of them had to be the model for "Maxine"!
Sunday was another travel day as we journeyed home to catch up on laundry before going back to work on Monday.
Marvins mom was scheduled for a 'minor' repair on her pacemaker on Monday afternoon, which turned into a real mess. The doctor was unable to complete the repairs and her body became very angry at having been invaded! After a very difficult night and day, she has settled down again and the surgery has been rescheduled for Thursday afternoon...please keep her in your prayers!
That brings us to the here and now! I got home at 2:00 today and immediately began working on the pool. Due to a series of rainy days and not being home...the pool has yet to be closed for the season! It is scaring the heck out of me. I am so afraid that a typical Kansas weather event will kick us in the pants (or pump)! If the temp should drop below freezing...and the pump is still full of water...it could end up being VERY costly. I vacuumed leaves from the bottom this afternoon until my hands were almost numb...and applied the first of three solutions for winter closing...so hopefully we will be able to do the deed before the weekend! After completing the vacuuming...I went to the basement and retrieved my Thanksgiving decorations and distributed Pilgrims, pumpkins and an overflowing Cornucopia. I feel much more "Autumnish" now!
Be Well!
We spent last weekend on the road, attending a wedding in Missouri on Friday evening, then continuing on to Coffeyville to spend Saturday night with my dad.
The wedding was very pretty, as weddings tend to be. The Bride, of course, was radiant...and the Groom very handsome. Instead of a Unity Candle, the couple chose to do a Sand Ceremony, which I had only seen previously on television. It was very cool and I would recommend it to anyone in the 'market' for such a thing. Shane and Candy nearly outshone the Bride and Groom and were by far the most attractive couple in the room, and Chasity turned heads all evening with her new figure and hair style and was the most attractive single gal there!
Before leaving Missouri, we stopped at a place called Lamberts (Home of Throwed Rolls) for lunch. It was probably the most unique place that I have ever eaten at! After ordering a meal from a vast selection of comfort foods, a cart laden with big, soft, warm, yeast rolls appears and the waiter begins throwing rolls across the room to anybody who wants one! Shortly after he moves on...along comes a girl holding a metal container full of mollasses...and drools it on your rolls!!! It was soooooooooooo yummy!! In the midst of all of this...our meals were delivered...followed by more servers carrying metal bowls containing the stuff dreams are made of...fried potatoes and onions...black eyed peas...etc. It was a dieters nightmare!! We threw caution to the winds and ate ourselves silly!
Upon arriving in Coffeyville, my dad took us on a driving tour of the devastation resulting from flood waters a few months ago. It was extremely interesting and heartbreaking at the same time! The depth of the floodwaters was over 6 feet in some areas...and in many areas was combined with a nasty oil slick from the local refinery...which sprung a leak adding to the disaster. Altogether, at least 350 homes and 75 businesses were destroyed. Amazingly...only one life was lost.
Saturday night found us at the home of my dads new girlfriend, where we cooked steaks out on the patio and enjoyed an evening of conversation and relaxation! We met some of her friends, which she fondly calls "The Yaya's", and I swear to you...one of them had to be the model for "Maxine"!
Sunday was another travel day as we journeyed home to catch up on laundry before going back to work on Monday.
Marvins mom was scheduled for a 'minor' repair on her pacemaker on Monday afternoon, which turned into a real mess. The doctor was unable to complete the repairs and her body became very angry at having been invaded! After a very difficult night and day, she has settled down again and the surgery has been rescheduled for Thursday afternoon...please keep her in your prayers!
That brings us to the here and now! I got home at 2:00 today and immediately began working on the pool. Due to a series of rainy days and not being home...the pool has yet to be closed for the season! It is scaring the heck out of me. I am so afraid that a typical Kansas weather event will kick us in the pants (or pump)! If the temp should drop below freezing...and the pump is still full of water...it could end up being VERY costly. I vacuumed leaves from the bottom this afternoon until my hands were almost numb...and applied the first of three solutions for winter closing...so hopefully we will be able to do the deed before the weekend! After completing the vacuuming...I went to the basement and retrieved my Thanksgiving decorations and distributed Pilgrims, pumpkins and an overflowing Cornucopia. I feel much more "Autumnish" now!
Be Well!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
My contribution to Arkalalah...
Go Cat Go...
Just on the eve
Of the Autumn bequest,
When the bears were all sleepy
And the trees were at rest…
Along came a party
For all…young and old,
With a beer garden…
…Or so I am told.
I mention this only…
Because you will see,
How this purveyor of spirits
Came famous to be.
A feline in a cap…
Who we all love and know,
Yes…the Cat In The Hat…
Was the star of the show.
The queens were all sashed up
The floats in a row…
The pancakes were cooking,
When it started to snow.
He felt not the chill
All covered in fur,
But all those around him
Were uttering “brrrrrrrr…”
And soon his concern
For this…his big day,
Mounted and grew…
In a troublesome way.
Sending his minions
To do a dark deed…
Unhosing some hoses,
And releading some leads.
Soon the Cat manned a booth
From which he called out…
Come let me warm you,
Put this in your mouth!
They lined up quite quickly
With goosebumps galore…
As the Cat poured them toddies
They called out for more.
Goosebumps all gone
Along with some clothes…
The warmest ones there…
Drank straight from the hose.
Policemen and firemen
All run amuck…
As atop the big bank
Mayor quacked like a duck.
The Shriner’s decided,
To start the parade…
They fired the cannon
Right onto the stage.
The floats began moving,
Quicker than ever…
They went up Summit and down,
Then straight into the river.
The Cat looked about
And made a quick note,
Get more booze…
All you can tote!
And so it went on…
For three frenzied days,
Some folks, legend says…
Are still in a haze.
Arkalahlah is well…
For that I am glad,
As for that Cat…
He’s still in rehab.
Copyright©2007 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.
Just on the eve
Of the Autumn bequest,
When the bears were all sleepy
And the trees were at rest…
Along came a party
For all…young and old,
With a beer garden…
…Or so I am told.
I mention this only…
Because you will see,
How this purveyor of spirits
Came famous to be.
A feline in a cap…
Who we all love and know,
Yes…the Cat In The Hat…
Was the star of the show.
The queens were all sashed up
The floats in a row…
The pancakes were cooking,
When it started to snow.
He felt not the chill
All covered in fur,
But all those around him
Were uttering “brrrrrrrr…”
And soon his concern
For this…his big day,
Mounted and grew…
In a troublesome way.
Sending his minions
To do a dark deed…
Unhosing some hoses,
And releading some leads.
Soon the Cat manned a booth
From which he called out…
Come let me warm you,
Put this in your mouth!
They lined up quite quickly
With goosebumps galore…
As the Cat poured them toddies
They called out for more.
Goosebumps all gone
Along with some clothes…
The warmest ones there…
Drank straight from the hose.
Policemen and firemen
All run amuck…
As atop the big bank
Mayor quacked like a duck.
The Shriner’s decided,
To start the parade…
They fired the cannon
Right onto the stage.
The floats began moving,
Quicker than ever…
They went up Summit and down,
Then straight into the river.
The Cat looked about
And made a quick note,
Get more booze…
All you can tote!
And so it went on…
For three frenzied days,
Some folks, legend says…
Are still in a haze.
Arkalahlah is well…
For that I am glad,
As for that Cat…
He’s still in rehab.
Copyright©2007 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
NASCAR...
We spent this entire weekend at Kansas City Speedway...experiencing NASCAR! Above are Marvin, Chas, Shane and Candy with 80,000 of our closest friends! It was very unique! I went with very low expectations...and was pleasantly surprised! Not only did we all enjoy it very much...but we all agreed that we would definitely go again next year if given the opportunity! The sheer enormity of it is absolutely awesome! We arrived early on both days and by the time we got there...several hours before race time...there were cars, flags and people for as far as the eye could see! The sound and power of engines capable of speeds of 175+ MPH...barely harnessed by the driver...is something that you have to feel to believe! It would be impossible to be there and not feel the excitement! Despite rain delays, yellow flags and a final thunderstorm...which ultimately caused us to listen to the end of the race on the radio as we drove home...it was a wonderful weekend!! More later...I need sleep...now!
Be Well!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
FYI...
There are a few things that have been driving me crazy lately. I will list them in order of aggravation:
1. Idiot parents who are raising ill-behaved children. I absolutely LOVE children!!! Children are a gift from God and they deserve to be loved, respected, protected, provided for, educated and cherished. I am so fed up with children who act like the spawn of Satan in public places...because their parents are absolute irresponsible, self-centered, idiots. Case in point - We were at Applebees the other evening, sitting at a nice quiet table, minding our own business after a long day at work. Several families (each with several small children) came in and were seated all around us. Within 5 minutes a total of 5 babies were crying in unison! After several minutes of almost unbearable noise...4 of them ceased. The table directly behind us however was quite another story. The tiny baby continued to cry while a toddler standing in the booth next to her mother also bawled. Dad eventually took the toddler to the restroom and when he returned announced loudly that she had been crying because her sister had smacked her in the eye (and indeed it was red). We were then treated to a ridiculous diatribe of stupidity from the mother as she ranted and raved for all to hear. This kind of behaviour went on for the next 15 minutes. The waiter then brought dessert menu's and was told curtly that the children were "bad" and could have no dessert. After an eternal meal from hell, the family stood to leave. Dad took the baby and his carrier out first and mom stood there with the toddler in tow while she argued with an unseen child (who had crawled under the table). At one point, mom reached under the table, grabbed the child, braced her feet and tried unsuccessfully to extricate her from the nether regions. Throughout the entire ordeal, mom continued to say things like "Are you embarrassed? Well you should be!" and "Fine, you stay here then...I'm tired of messing with you!" I wanted to spank them both!!! After watching the behaviour and responses of the parents, there was no doubt as to the source of the bad behaviour of the children! Oh...and by the way...when she finally did get the child out from under the table...it was not a toddler...the child was at least 5 or 6 years old!
2. Smokers - It is my firm belief that if smokers get to take 10 - 15 minute breaks at least 4-5 times a day...they should be required to come in an hour earlier than the rest of us...or stay an hour later! We don't get to just walk out every once in a while to 'feed our habit'....though I could use a chocolate break every now and again! AND...if you insist on sucking on cigarettes all day long...don't whine to me about that horrible cough, congestion, or chronic bronchitis that you can't seem to kick! AND...I'm sick of your nasty, ashtray breath and clothing that reeks! Perhaps all smokers should be relegated to a closed in area in the work place where they can choke each other with their aroma.
3. WALK ON THE FREAKING RIGHT!! Nuff said.
Be Well!
1. Idiot parents who are raising ill-behaved children. I absolutely LOVE children!!! Children are a gift from God and they deserve to be loved, respected, protected, provided for, educated and cherished. I am so fed up with children who act like the spawn of Satan in public places...because their parents are absolute irresponsible, self-centered, idiots. Case in point - We were at Applebees the other evening, sitting at a nice quiet table, minding our own business after a long day at work. Several families (each with several small children) came in and were seated all around us. Within 5 minutes a total of 5 babies were crying in unison! After several minutes of almost unbearable noise...4 of them ceased. The table directly behind us however was quite another story. The tiny baby continued to cry while a toddler standing in the booth next to her mother also bawled. Dad eventually took the toddler to the restroom and when he returned announced loudly that she had been crying because her sister had smacked her in the eye (and indeed it was red). We were then treated to a ridiculous diatribe of stupidity from the mother as she ranted and raved for all to hear. This kind of behaviour went on for the next 15 minutes. The waiter then brought dessert menu's and was told curtly that the children were "bad" and could have no dessert. After an eternal meal from hell, the family stood to leave. Dad took the baby and his carrier out first and mom stood there with the toddler in tow while she argued with an unseen child (who had crawled under the table). At one point, mom reached under the table, grabbed the child, braced her feet and tried unsuccessfully to extricate her from the nether regions. Throughout the entire ordeal, mom continued to say things like "Are you embarrassed? Well you should be!" and "Fine, you stay here then...I'm tired of messing with you!" I wanted to spank them both!!! After watching the behaviour and responses of the parents, there was no doubt as to the source of the bad behaviour of the children! Oh...and by the way...when she finally did get the child out from under the table...it was not a toddler...the child was at least 5 or 6 years old!
2. Smokers - It is my firm belief that if smokers get to take 10 - 15 minute breaks at least 4-5 times a day...they should be required to come in an hour earlier than the rest of us...or stay an hour later! We don't get to just walk out every once in a while to 'feed our habit'....though I could use a chocolate break every now and again! AND...if you insist on sucking on cigarettes all day long...don't whine to me about that horrible cough, congestion, or chronic bronchitis that you can't seem to kick! AND...I'm sick of your nasty, ashtray breath and clothing that reeks! Perhaps all smokers should be relegated to a closed in area in the work place where they can choke each other with their aroma.
3. WALK ON THE FREAKING RIGHT!! Nuff said.
Be Well!
Monday, September 24, 2007
The sun is setting...
...on Monday. Today was busy! I got around early and headed for the post office in Kechi to send the world's ugliest bedspread back to LTD before going to work. It was one of those days when my concentration seemed to be split into tiny pieces. I generally use the time during my shower to start the day with prayer...probably sounds silly...but there are few interruptions and virtually no distractions! This morning however, I kept losing focus on my prayers. My mind kept skipping around to chores that still lay ahead, grocery shopping and a million other things. While I was putting on my makeup I remembered that I needed to start the dishwasher, so with half my face on...I went to finish loading it. I hit the start button, then returned to the bathroom to finish my makeup, when I noticed a smudge on the mirror...so I cleaned the mirror. As I finished wiping the mirror I looked down at the floor and was horrified to see a colony of dust bunnies next to the trash can...so I went after the broom. As I swept the floor in the bathroom I realized that I had not put the 'innards' of the coffee maker in the dishwasher so I hurried in, paused it and took the necessary parts out of the pot and put them in to wash. I returned to the bathroom, finished sweeping and put on some more makeup. As I was almost done, I remembered an idea that I had last night for moving the bedroom around, so I stepped in to check it out. As I stood there I caught a glimpse of my hair in the mirror and realized how badly my bangs needed trimmed. Back to the bathroom I went, retrieved the scissors and trimmed those bangs. Noticing the time, I headed back to the bedroom to dry my hair and as I picked up the dryer I realized that I hadn't measured the bedside table to see if it would fit in the place where I had decided to move it. I dried my hair very quickly, threw in a few curls, then proceeded to look for the tape measure. I was sure that I knew where it was...but I was wrong. However, there was a yo-yo where the tape measure should have been...so I unfurled the string and measured the table and the space with the string! Good news! It fit with several inches of string to spare! By that time I was really running out of time, so I grabbed my purse, the LTD box and my work bag. I hurriedly crammed in two cans of soda and a bottle of water, then realized that I had no lunch. Oh well...! On to the post office! The package was ready to go and I spent a total of 3 minutes in the building, then headed back to Park City. By then I realized that I had about 15 minutes to spare, so I decided to drive through Spangles and grab a jello for lunch. I flew straight up 61st street...right past Spangles...and ended up with a McDonald's yogurt cup instead. The whole day went pretty much the same way...everything that I started doing reminded me of something else that I was going to do...and I kept ending up with a myriad of things going on all at once! The good news is...I finished all of them except the grocery shopping...which I will do tomorrow!
Be Well!
Be Well!
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Here we are...
Another weekend fading into the sunset. This has been a busy one! Saturday found us at Chas's house, helping her prepare for a wedding shower on Sunday! We accomplished everything on her list and the house and yard looked great...although...they always look great! Sunday was Church, then the shower afterwards! There were 15 women in attendance and everyone had a great time! Candy had chosen an icebreaker game, which made everyone laugh and absolutely served its intended purpose! Then, those who had known the bride for a long time, shared their fondest memories of her as a child and growing up. After that it was time for her to open the mountain of gifts ranging from a frying pan to pretty nighties and bubble bath and an assortment of fabulous smelling lotions! We topped the afternoon off with refreshments of lemonade, sugar cookies, snicker doodles, chocolate chip cookies, brownies and Rice Krispy treats! Everything went off without a hitch and hopefully the afternoon provided some nice memories for Chelsea!
I have rather neglected my housework this weekend (being either gone or pooped out most of it). After work tomorrow I will dig in and play catch up. Next weekend we will be at NASCAR in Kansas City! None of us have ever been to NASCAR before, so it will be a totally new experience!
Autumn is upon us, although temps today topped out at 92 degrees. That hint of change is still in the air and the weatherman tells us that it is indeed on the way later in the week! The leaves are already letting go of their benefactors, V's of geese have begun to fly over routinely, and the sun sets a bit earlier each day! The pool cover has been ordered and we will soon set the fire pit back on the deck for those cool evening tete-a-tetes that we so enjoy! Time passes so quickly that it is sometimes frightening, and we are reminded so often just how fragile life is.
That big, soft bed is calling my name! More tomorrow!
Be Well!
I have rather neglected my housework this weekend (being either gone or pooped out most of it). After work tomorrow I will dig in and play catch up. Next weekend we will be at NASCAR in Kansas City! None of us have ever been to NASCAR before, so it will be a totally new experience!
Autumn is upon us, although temps today topped out at 92 degrees. That hint of change is still in the air and the weatherman tells us that it is indeed on the way later in the week! The leaves are already letting go of their benefactors, V's of geese have begun to fly over routinely, and the sun sets a bit earlier each day! The pool cover has been ordered and we will soon set the fire pit back on the deck for those cool evening tete-a-tetes that we so enjoy! Time passes so quickly that it is sometimes frightening, and we are reminded so often just how fragile life is.
That big, soft bed is calling my name! More tomorrow!
Be Well!
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Almost to the finish line...
Friday eve!!! Remember a few days ago when I told you about an adorable little puppy visitor at work...his name was Harrison and he had been left behind by his family? Well, after two days of searching, and phone calls his family was located. Apparently, as they were moving, somehow both of their dogs got out of the truck and they didn't realize it. They had been searching for Harrison and his Schnauzer brother every since they discovered that they were missing. They came back to get Harrison but are still searching for dog number two. All's well that ends well! On a sad note, the compliance officer came through today and made the following announcement, "If anyone is interested, I have a totally blind Pappillon in the truck..." Needless to say...it broke my heart. I didn't dare go look at it...it would have gone home with me. I have been suffering from much deserved guilt every since...even blind dogs need homes. Some days just suck.
Be Well!
Be Well!
Monday, September 17, 2007
A fast one...
Monday night again and another weekend has come and gone! It was a good one though! Marvin's sister had surgery on Thursday, so his mom spent Thursday night and Friday night with us. Chas got home from her Florida vacation late Thursday, so Friday evening was dinner at our house and vacation pictures, stories and souvenirs! It was sooooooo good to have her back safe and sound again (especially after the mess she got caught up in on the way home) and the pictures made me really want to go back to Florida (even more than I already do)! Saturday was State Fair day! We headed for Hutchinson around 11:00 and took in the whole thing from the rabbits to the butter sculpture! It was a really fun day and we were all exhausted by the end of it! Sunday was Church and the best sermon that Pastor Bruce has ever preached! Chas had been plagued with a nasty headache for several days, so she slept in and met us for Shane's birthday lunch at Pistro's, which was fabulous! Then back to our house for cake, ice cream, gifts and a movie!
Today dawned sunny and warm, and I have the opportunity to work some extra hours this week, although tomorrow night is a special Council meeting which is promising to be the meeting from hell. A bright spot in the day was an office visitor! Code enforcement was called to pick up a stray dog and he was soooo sweet that they let him roam the office soliciting "pets" all morning! He was wearing a collar and tags, but was apparently "left behind"when his owners moved. The name on his tags (his owners last name) was Harrison, so that's what we called him all day! He ended up going home with the Mayor and as she carried him past my desk I heard her say to him "Now Harrison, this is NOT permanent!"(Famous last words)!
The news about my step dad continues to worsen, he is down to 125 pounds now, which is a loss of 5 more pounds in two weeks. Apparently, the decision has been made not to let Hospice come in to assist him...a decision that I strongly DISAGREE with...but it's not my call.
I have been plagued with leg cramps for a month or so and my right leg was really cramping yesterday. Enough that I didn't go down the stairs to see the kids off when they left. I thought that I had slid by today without a problem, but even as I type, the darn thing is tightening up! I think that I really need to hit the vitamins again...I just have to remember to buy them
! So, I think I will sign off here and take a hot shower and peruse the cabinet for leftover vitamins before I hit the sack! Don't worry guys...I will check the expiration date before consuming them! LOL!
Be Well!
Today dawned sunny and warm, and I have the opportunity to work some extra hours this week, although tomorrow night is a special Council meeting which is promising to be the meeting from hell. A bright spot in the day was an office visitor! Code enforcement was called to pick up a stray dog and he was soooo sweet that they let him roam the office soliciting "pets" all morning! He was wearing a collar and tags, but was apparently "left behind"when his owners moved. The name on his tags (his owners last name) was Harrison, so that's what we called him all day! He ended up going home with the Mayor and as she carried him past my desk I heard her say to him "Now Harrison, this is NOT permanent!"(Famous last words)!
The news about my step dad continues to worsen, he is down to 125 pounds now, which is a loss of 5 more pounds in two weeks. Apparently, the decision has been made not to let Hospice come in to assist him...a decision that I strongly DISAGREE with...but it's not my call.
I have been plagued with leg cramps for a month or so and my right leg was really cramping yesterday. Enough that I didn't go down the stairs to see the kids off when they left. I thought that I had slid by today without a problem, but even as I type, the darn thing is tightening up! I think that I really need to hit the vitamins again...I just have to remember to buy them
! So, I think I will sign off here and take a hot shower and peruse the cabinet for leftover vitamins before I hit the sack! Don't worry guys...I will check the expiration date before consuming them! LOL!
Be Well!
Sunday, September 09, 2007
At a glance...
Friday - Dinner with the kids at our house and lots of laughter!! Talked with Marvin during the evening and the conference is going well. I puttered around the house doing odd chores, then read until 1:30 a.m.
Saturday - Writer's meeting at 10:00 a.m.! We had not met in a couple of months due to scheduling conflicts and it was great to get together and get/give some much needed encouragement! After the meeting I shopped for an hour or so to kill some time before heading to Chas's house (in case she was still sleeping). I arrived at her house at about 12:15, just as she was finishing her lunch. We left her house about 1:00 with no particular direction in mind other than to stop at Shane's (he was in Kansas City with Candy for the day) to feed Sugar and let her out for a bit. We spent an hour or so at an antique store downtown, then went to the Warren hoping to find a movie that looked interesting. After perusing the titles and talking to the ticket takers, we decided that there really were no good movies out this weekend, so we got back in the car and went to Cheddars to share a Monster Chocolate Chip Cookie topped with fudge sauce and whipped cream (ice cream on the side)! It was delicious!!! Then we hit the mall for an hour or so and ended up back at Chas's house and watched several episodes of Feasting On Asphalt, and visited until around 9:30 p.m. Since Chas was still fighting a nasty cold and trying to heal in time for vacation on Monday, she decided to take some cold meds and sleep in on Sunday morning. A quick call to Shane told us that he and Candy were just leaving the Kansas City area with a three hour drive still ahead of them and the decision was made for all to sleep in on Sunday morning, then meet at our house for lunch at 1:00. I headed home. Once I arrived, I folded some laundry, read, showered, channel surfed until I fell asleep on the couch, then got up and went to bed at 2:00 a.m.
Sunday - A huge noise, which literally shook the house, windows and bed woke me at 7:30 a.m. I got up and checked around inside and out and could not determine the source...so I put some yeast rolls in a pan to rise for lunch and went back to bed until 9:00 a.m. At 9:00 I got up again, fixed a smoothie for breakfast, put some chicken breasts on to boil for dumplings, watched a bit of news, checked email, then showered. I talked to both kids briefly about the days plans, and Marvin called to chat for a bit. Around 11:00 my dad called to say that he would arrive in Wichita around 1:30 and wandered if we could all have lunch! It was a wonderful surprise! I called the kids to let them know , then put the chicken breasts and broth in the fridge, baked the rolls while I dressed and put them away, then we all met at Shane's house and proceeded to Karen's hotel to pick Dad and Karen up. Lunch was at the River City Brewery, then we took them to see the Keeper of the Plains and the Wichita Troll! It was a beautiful day for walking along the river front and we really enjoyed it! After that a short drive through Riverside park and the surrounding neighborhood, then back to the hotel. The kids both had things that they needed to do, so we went back to Shane's house and I picked up the truck and went back to the mall for a bit with Dad and Karen! I spoke to Marvin several times during the day and he sent pictures via cell phone of Chicago sites!
That brings us to the here and now! I got back to the house at 5:45 and after eating half of a baked potato and a bit of cottage cheese, I did some research on the Denver Airport and Municipal and Industrial bond issues. The former was very intriguing (I am a conspiracy buff) and the latter two were most boring, but necessary for better understanding of some work issues.
I have been without Marvin for three nights now and I miss him soooooo much!! I am very anxious to see him come down the hallway at the airport tomorrow!!! Chas begins her vacation tomorrow! I am so excited for her! The trip that she has planned will be absolutely awesome!!!! Please pray for her safety in travel and while she is there as well, for her terrible cold to be well quickly, and her safe return to us!
Be Well!
Friday - Dinner with the kids at our house and lots of laughter!! Talked with Marvin during the evening and the conference is going well. I puttered around the house doing odd chores, then read until 1:30 a.m.
Saturday - Writer's meeting at 10:00 a.m.! We had not met in a couple of months due to scheduling conflicts and it was great to get together and get/give some much needed encouragement! After the meeting I shopped for an hour or so to kill some time before heading to Chas's house (in case she was still sleeping). I arrived at her house at about 12:15, just as she was finishing her lunch. We left her house about 1:00 with no particular direction in mind other than to stop at Shane's (he was in Kansas City with Candy for the day) to feed Sugar and let her out for a bit. We spent an hour or so at an antique store downtown, then went to the Warren hoping to find a movie that looked interesting. After perusing the titles and talking to the ticket takers, we decided that there really were no good movies out this weekend, so we got back in the car and went to Cheddars to share a Monster Chocolate Chip Cookie topped with fudge sauce and whipped cream (ice cream on the side)! It was delicious!!! Then we hit the mall for an hour or so and ended up back at Chas's house and watched several episodes of Feasting On Asphalt, and visited until around 9:30 p.m. Since Chas was still fighting a nasty cold and trying to heal in time for vacation on Monday, she decided to take some cold meds and sleep in on Sunday morning. A quick call to Shane told us that he and Candy were just leaving the Kansas City area with a three hour drive still ahead of them and the decision was made for all to sleep in on Sunday morning, then meet at our house for lunch at 1:00. I headed home. Once I arrived, I folded some laundry, read, showered, channel surfed until I fell asleep on the couch, then got up and went to bed at 2:00 a.m.
Sunday - A huge noise, which literally shook the house, windows and bed woke me at 7:30 a.m. I got up and checked around inside and out and could not determine the source...so I put some yeast rolls in a pan to rise for lunch and went back to bed until 9:00 a.m. At 9:00 I got up again, fixed a smoothie for breakfast, put some chicken breasts on to boil for dumplings, watched a bit of news, checked email, then showered. I talked to both kids briefly about the days plans, and Marvin called to chat for a bit. Around 11:00 my dad called to say that he would arrive in Wichita around 1:30 and wandered if we could all have lunch! It was a wonderful surprise! I called the kids to let them know , then put the chicken breasts and broth in the fridge, baked the rolls while I dressed and put them away, then we all met at Shane's house and proceeded to Karen's hotel to pick Dad and Karen up. Lunch was at the River City Brewery, then we took them to see the Keeper of the Plains and the Wichita Troll! It was a beautiful day for walking along the river front and we really enjoyed it! After that a short drive through Riverside park and the surrounding neighborhood, then back to the hotel. The kids both had things that they needed to do, so we went back to Shane's house and I picked up the truck and went back to the mall for a bit with Dad and Karen! I spoke to Marvin several times during the day and he sent pictures via cell phone of Chicago sites!
That brings us to the here and now! I got back to the house at 5:45 and after eating half of a baked potato and a bit of cottage cheese, I did some research on the Denver Airport and Municipal and Industrial bond issues. The former was very intriguing (I am a conspiracy buff) and the latter two were most boring, but necessary for better understanding of some work issues.
I have been without Marvin for three nights now and I miss him soooooo much!! I am very anxious to see him come down the hallway at the airport tomorrow!!! Chas begins her vacation tomorrow! I am so excited for her! The trip that she has planned will be absolutely awesome!!!! Please pray for her safety in travel and while she is there as well, for her terrible cold to be well quickly, and her safe return to us!
Be Well!
Thursday, September 06, 2007
A day...
Friday...my elusive friend...I have missed thee!! If only every second day was Friday what a world it would be!! I'm a bit at odds tonight...I have tried on all sorts of old blue jeans...put new songs on my Ipod shuffle...showered...channel surfed...checked email...chatted...talked myself out of a snack...and now I seem to have no alternative...time for bed! Until the morrow!!
Be Thee Well!
Be Thee Well!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)