Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Just another Wednesday.
Like so many others before it, this Wednesday was just another blip on the radar of life. Nothing bad, nothing good, no remarkable happenings or unbelievable revelations. Just another day in the life. As I sit here looking out the window before me...watching the tree sway gently in the breeze as the golden sun sinks just beyond the horizon, into a lazy river of colors so beautiful...I forget...just for a moment...to even breath. I am afraid of disturbing this unforgettable moment of magic...with so much as even human frailty demands...inhaling. And then...in a moment so fleeting that I am amazed...it is gone...leaving behind only the memory of a thing created by a powerful God...who in his infinite wisdom knew...that one such as I...needed to witness poetic beauty with my eyes...that it might find it's way into my soul.
Be Well!
Be Well!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Another one bites the dust...
Another weekend comes to a close! I can't believe they speed by so quickly!!
We arose early on Saturday morning and drove over to Chas's, where we met her and Shane. We all loaded up in her car and headed for Derby to pick Candy up, then went to Oklahoma City for a day of shopping and fun! The day started out cloudy and cool, but by early afternoon the sun was out! The temperature stayed down around mid 60's, but we were indoors anyway...so it all worked out! We spent several hours shopping at a great mall, and on the way home, we stopped for dinner in Stillwater at Eskimo Joe's! We had been there several times, but Candy had not and at first she was less than impressed. Shortly after the waitress took our drink orders, several waiters began to move the fabric ceiling coverings back...and lo and behold...the glass ceiling itself slid open!! We had never witnessed that before and it was VERY COOL!! We arrived back in Wichita around 9:45 p.m. We drove on home in the rain and watched a movie until about 11:30 or so...then finally hit the sack.
Sunday found us all a bit tired...but everyone made it to church. After services, we headed over to McAlister's for lunch, then Marvin and I came home and painted the upstairs guest room! I was a bit skeptical about the color that we had selected, but it turned out very nice! The room is all put back together now except for hanging stuff on the walls (and cleaning out my desk)!
Tomorrow is Monday (again) and it is already shaping up to be a hectic week. Hurry Friday...hurry summer!
Be Well!
We arose early on Saturday morning and drove over to Chas's, where we met her and Shane. We all loaded up in her car and headed for Derby to pick Candy up, then went to Oklahoma City for a day of shopping and fun! The day started out cloudy and cool, but by early afternoon the sun was out! The temperature stayed down around mid 60's, but we were indoors anyway...so it all worked out! We spent several hours shopping at a great mall, and on the way home, we stopped for dinner in Stillwater at Eskimo Joe's! We had been there several times, but Candy had not and at first she was less than impressed. Shortly after the waitress took our drink orders, several waiters began to move the fabric ceiling coverings back...and lo and behold...the glass ceiling itself slid open!! We had never witnessed that before and it was VERY COOL!! We arrived back in Wichita around 9:45 p.m. We drove on home in the rain and watched a movie until about 11:30 or so...then finally hit the sack.
Sunday found us all a bit tired...but everyone made it to church. After services, we headed over to McAlister's for lunch, then Marvin and I came home and painted the upstairs guest room! I was a bit skeptical about the color that we had selected, but it turned out very nice! The room is all put back together now except for hanging stuff on the walls (and cleaning out my desk)!
Tomorrow is Monday (again) and it is already shaping up to be a hectic week. Hurry Friday...hurry summer!
Be Well!
Friday, April 25, 2008
End of the week...
It's been a long week. Work has been hectic and life in general has been a bit odd. We had dinner tonight with the kids, which is always fun! Tomorrow we head for Oklahoma City...just for a day trip! I'm so looking forward to it!
Chas and I attended a "Get Motivated" seminar on Wednesday! It was awesome! Every speaker was excellent! George Foreman was the "big draw"...and although he was not as eloquent as some of the others...he seemed like a very, very nice man! And he was very entertaining!
I haven't blogged for a while, and I have resolved to try to do better...but no promises. I am having serious trouble relaxing enough to...think and write...and just be. Hopefully, the warm spring breezes and sunshine will help! Shane told me the other day that he just doesn't understand us "seasonal" people. It made me really think about it...and my conclusion is that I don't understand either. I have no idea why sunshine and warm breezes, the early morning summertime smells and sounds, flowers and green grass and trees in full bloom...going outdoors barefoot...the sound of turtle doves and the crickets in the evening ...make me feel so much better. I just know that they do. We humans are indeed a fickle bunch.
Be Well!
Chas and I attended a "Get Motivated" seminar on Wednesday! It was awesome! Every speaker was excellent! George Foreman was the "big draw"...and although he was not as eloquent as some of the others...he seemed like a very, very nice man! And he was very entertaining!
I haven't blogged for a while, and I have resolved to try to do better...but no promises. I am having serious trouble relaxing enough to...think and write...and just be. Hopefully, the warm spring breezes and sunshine will help! Shane told me the other day that he just doesn't understand us "seasonal" people. It made me really think about it...and my conclusion is that I don't understand either. I have no idea why sunshine and warm breezes, the early morning summertime smells and sounds, flowers and green grass and trees in full bloom...going outdoors barefoot...the sound of turtle doves and the crickets in the evening ...make me feel so much better. I just know that they do. We humans are indeed a fickle bunch.
Be Well!
Monday, April 07, 2008
Writer's block...
Long time no blog. I seem to have writer's block. I normally have a head full of...stuff. All kinds of stuff, serious stuff, funny stuff, odd stuff, thoughtful stuff, weird stuff, stupid stuff. But every time I sit down to blog lately...or even to simply write...which I love to do...I seem to be empty. It occurred to me this afternoon that perhaps what I need to do is just...write.
These past few weeks have been nothing if not interesting. The week before Easter, all five of us came down with the flu. Some had the stomach variety, some had the upper respiratory kind, and all of us remained drained and exhausted for almost two weeks. It was terrible. As we were just beginning to see daylight from all that, my step dad took a turn for the worse. After about a week and a half of heart wrenching illness, he passed away on Thursday, March 27th, in the early hours of the morning. What followed was an unbelievable time of mourning, cleaning, kowtowing, frustration filled, stress packed, nerve wracking...stuff. And now it is finished.
I look back on his death, the aftermath, and the funeral...and I am reminded again...how precious my kids and husband are! No matter how rough the road gets, or how tired we are, or how filled with sorrow, or grief or uncertainty...we band together and hold each other up and cheer each other on! We become one unit of strength and love...together...and we face whatever rears its ugly head. I could not do...anything...without them! And I would never, ever want to! They are my rocks! And I love them without reservation, and with all of my soul! I am the most blessed mother and wife on the planet!
Be well.
These past few weeks have been nothing if not interesting. The week before Easter, all five of us came down with the flu. Some had the stomach variety, some had the upper respiratory kind, and all of us remained drained and exhausted for almost two weeks. It was terrible. As we were just beginning to see daylight from all that, my step dad took a turn for the worse. After about a week and a half of heart wrenching illness, he passed away on Thursday, March 27th, in the early hours of the morning. What followed was an unbelievable time of mourning, cleaning, kowtowing, frustration filled, stress packed, nerve wracking...stuff. And now it is finished.
I look back on his death, the aftermath, and the funeral...and I am reminded again...how precious my kids and husband are! No matter how rough the road gets, or how tired we are, or how filled with sorrow, or grief or uncertainty...we band together and hold each other up and cheer each other on! We become one unit of strength and love...together...and we face whatever rears its ugly head. I could not do...anything...without them! And I would never, ever want to! They are my rocks! And I love them without reservation, and with all of my soul! I am the most blessed mother and wife on the planet!
Be well.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Chas has been running an interesting post for several days, and although it took me a while...I came up with the following 'short list' of things that some people might not know about me:
In 1968, my 8th grade year in school, I wrote a research paper about the affects of Marijuana and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) on the human brain and body. The paper was condensed, made into a pamphlet, and became a part of the library. Coincidentally, later that same year, I embarked on a six year journey through drug use, smoking marijuana regularly. However, the information that I had gleaned from research for the paper kept me from ever using LSD.
I have (at last count) ten brothers and sisters…but I remain an only child.
Not only am I ambidextrous, but I can perform a wide variety of ‘functions’ with my toes.
Many years ago, I was at a party which had been held in honor of David Carradine. He was in our little town for the purpose of filming an episode of Kung Fu, in which he played the character ‘Qui Chang Caine’. Unfortunately, the police raided the party and everyone spent the night at the police station. Though I did get to experience the ambience of a paddy wagon…I did not get to meet David Carradine.
I once accumulated several dozen parking tickets in the glove compartment of my dad’s car. The ‘day of reckoning’ was ugly.
I was driving a car one time…at a speed in excess of 98 mph…when a passenger put the car in reverse. Never try this at home.
During the early 70s I logged a lot of miles on my thumb…yes I was a hitchhiking fool. (Fool being the operative word).
During the same period when I was hitchhiking, I also learned the ‘art’ of ‘spare changing’.
I once spent the night in the lobby of a VERY Cowboy hotel…in a TOTALLY cowboy town…with a group of hitchhiking pals…all of us long haired, barefooted, bell-bottomed hippies. We didn’t have the money for a room, and it was pouring down rain. For some unknown reason…we were not ejected, jailed, or beaten to a pulp.
I once stood before a poster of a very powerful and influential law enforcement figure…drawing a mustache and horns on his picture with a marker…when I turned to find him standing behind me. I smiled and shook his hand.
In 1968, my 8th grade year in school, I wrote a research paper about the affects of Marijuana and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) on the human brain and body. The paper was condensed, made into a pamphlet, and became a part of the library. Coincidentally, later that same year, I embarked on a six year journey through drug use, smoking marijuana regularly. However, the information that I had gleaned from research for the paper kept me from ever using LSD.
I have (at last count) ten brothers and sisters…but I remain an only child.
Not only am I ambidextrous, but I can perform a wide variety of ‘functions’ with my toes.
Many years ago, I was at a party which had been held in honor of David Carradine. He was in our little town for the purpose of filming an episode of Kung Fu, in which he played the character ‘Qui Chang Caine’. Unfortunately, the police raided the party and everyone spent the night at the police station. Though I did get to experience the ambience of a paddy wagon…I did not get to meet David Carradine.
I once accumulated several dozen parking tickets in the glove compartment of my dad’s car. The ‘day of reckoning’ was ugly.
I was driving a car one time…at a speed in excess of 98 mph…when a passenger put the car in reverse. Never try this at home.
During the early 70s I logged a lot of miles on my thumb…yes I was a hitchhiking fool. (Fool being the operative word).
During the same period when I was hitchhiking, I also learned the ‘art’ of ‘spare changing’.
I once spent the night in the lobby of a VERY Cowboy hotel…in a TOTALLY cowboy town…with a group of hitchhiking pals…all of us long haired, barefooted, bell-bottomed hippies. We didn’t have the money for a room, and it was pouring down rain. For some unknown reason…we were not ejected, jailed, or beaten to a pulp.
I once stood before a poster of a very powerful and influential law enforcement figure…drawing a mustache and horns on his picture with a marker…when I turned to find him standing behind me. I smiled and shook his hand.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
Hey...
It’s been a while! Blogging has taken a backseat lately…to just about everything. I have to say that I miss it! I very much enjoy blogging…I have just had trouble fitting it into my day! Anyway…life is boring and slow right now…as winter tends to be. We’ve had the usual rounds of colds and viruses, work has been monotonous, and the days are short, cold and dreary. I make a point of reading my Writer’s Almanac every morning (sometimes on the fly, with my coat on and purse in hand), and lately there have been some real gems waiting for me! I love to read unknown or obscure writers…in fact…I usually delete stanzas from “famous” poets without reading a word. I can read those anytime…there are volumes and volumes of verses from the great minds of days gone by…but I most enjoy those “newbie” pieces! If you’ve never visited Writer’s Almanac.com…you should give it a try!
I know that I haven’t really said anything…the fact is…I really have nothing to say right now. I just wanted to say “hey”!
Be Well!
I know that I haven’t really said anything…the fact is…I really have nothing to say right now. I just wanted to say “hey”!
Be Well!
Monday, January 28, 2008
In remembrance...
It was on this day in 1986 that the space shuttle Challenger exploded 73 seconds after takeoff, killing all seven astronauts aboard. That evening, President Ronald Reagan eulogized the lost astronauts in one of the finest addresses of his presidency. He said,
"We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them, this morning, as they prepared for their journey and waved goodbye and slipped 'the surly bonds of earth' to 'touch the face of God."
Be Well!
"We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them, this morning, as they prepared for their journey and waved goodbye and slipped 'the surly bonds of earth' to 'touch the face of God."
Be Well!
Monday, January 21, 2008
I've had some internal struggle lately...mostly confusion. I've spent a lot of time staring into the night trying to reconcile things from the darkness of our childhood...to recent emotions. As things have unfolded with my step dad's illness, and a myriad of other problems that my mom and step dad have encountered, I have felt great sadness and have done (and will continue to do) everything that I can to help them. But, there are times when the irony of this situation is almost overwhelming. Part of me wonders why I feel so much heartache for her...when she contributed so much heartache to us. After much, much, much...thought, I know why I can love her, and disregard the past. It is because I have been so blessed with a husband and two children...who I love with all my heart...and who love me back...with all their hearts. It is their love that has taught my heart... to love her.
The Apple
Isn’t it ironic…
The things we see.
They say the apple
Falls close to the tree.
In the quiet moments…
I close my eyes and see
Three helpless children
Brother, sister…me.
Anger, pain, confusion,
Reflected in the mirror…
Constant close companions…
To the ever present fear.
A healing, soothing balm
…the passing of the years…
Closed the open wounds
And dried the flowing tears.
Now the one
Who let it be…
Cries for help
…from we three.
Responding not…
With sweet disdain...
…no retribution
For the pain.
Instead we wretch…
…from deep inside
We feel her pain…
Hearts open wide.
That thing about the apple…
Though sometimes it’s right on…
Love can forever alter…
And the hardest wars be won.
Copyright©2008 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.
The Apple
Isn’t it ironic…
The things we see.
They say the apple
Falls close to the tree.
In the quiet moments…
I close my eyes and see
Three helpless children
Brother, sister…me.
Anger, pain, confusion,
Reflected in the mirror…
Constant close companions…
To the ever present fear.
A healing, soothing balm
…the passing of the years…
Closed the open wounds
And dried the flowing tears.
Now the one
Who let it be…
Cries for help
…from we three.
Responding not…
With sweet disdain...
…no retribution
For the pain.
Instead we wretch…
…from deep inside
We feel her pain…
Hearts open wide.
That thing about the apple…
Though sometimes it’s right on…
Love can forever alter…
And the hardest wars be won.
Copyright©2008 by VSchoonover. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Thanks Tammy!
You have to type the first thing that comes to mind whenever you hear these 31 things. You can’t think and go back and change your answers.
1. Beer: Belly
2. McDonald's: Fries
3. Relationships: Hard
4. Purple: Rain
5. Power Rangers: Soldiers
6. Steroids: Arnold
7. Cartoons: Mickey Mouse
8. The President: David Palmer
9. Tupperware: Lids everywhere.
10. Florida: Disney
11. Santa Claus: I know him!!
12. Halloween: Candy
13. Alice: Cooper
14. Grammar: Gramper
15: Myspace: Stingy gut.
16. Clowns: Chas (is afraid of them)
17. Marriage: Great
18. Paris: Hilton
19. Pat: Butter
20. Pass the: Salt
21. One night stand: 60’s
22. Donald Trump: Idiot with bad hair
23. Neverland: Michael Jackson
24. Pixie: Dust
25. Vanilla ice cream: Chocolate syrup
26. Hooters: Redneck morons
27. High school musical: Oklahoma
28. Pajamas: Comfy
29. Woody: Allen
30. Wet Socks: Cold feet.
31. Love: Family
Be Well!
1. Beer: Belly
2. McDonald's: Fries
3. Relationships: Hard
4. Purple: Rain
5. Power Rangers: Soldiers
6. Steroids: Arnold
7. Cartoons: Mickey Mouse
8. The President: David Palmer
9. Tupperware: Lids everywhere.
10. Florida: Disney
11. Santa Claus: I know him!!
12. Halloween: Candy
13. Alice: Cooper
14. Grammar: Gramper
15: Myspace: Stingy gut.
16. Clowns: Chas (is afraid of them)
17. Marriage: Great
18. Paris: Hilton
19. Pat: Butter
20. Pass the: Salt
21. One night stand: 60’s
22. Donald Trump: Idiot with bad hair
23. Neverland: Michael Jackson
24. Pixie: Dust
25. Vanilla ice cream: Chocolate syrup
26. Hooters: Redneck morons
27. High school musical: Oklahoma
28. Pajamas: Comfy
29. Woody: Allen
30. Wet Socks: Cold feet.
31. Love: Family
Be Well!
Monday, January 07, 2008
Just another Monday...
Today was horrific...as every day has been since January 2, and as I'm sure they will all be until the citizens of Smallville decide to accept the fact that for the next three years, they will pay for a recycling service, whether they use it or not! The calls are many and the attitudes of the callers are worse than bad. It has been eye opening and interesting to say the least.
I was supposed to be at a Park and Tree Board meeting tonight, but due to the lack of a quorum...it was cancelled. It did not break my heart. I am tired to the bone this evening! My first thought was that I would rest...but then I realized that I needed to vacuum, change out the laundry, run the dishwasher, change the sheets and vacuum the couch and love seat. I have accomplished those things now...and that freshly vacuumed sofa is calling my name!
Be Well!
I was supposed to be at a Park and Tree Board meeting tonight, but due to the lack of a quorum...it was cancelled. It did not break my heart. I am tired to the bone this evening! My first thought was that I would rest...but then I realized that I needed to vacuum, change out the laundry, run the dishwasher, change the sheets and vacuum the couch and love seat. I have accomplished those things now...and that freshly vacuumed sofa is calling my name!
Be Well!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Happy New Year!
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!
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!
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!
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