It was fun and strange at the same time to be back on the mountain. So many familiar faces, but so many unfamiliar ones, too! I was basically stuck at the Greeter position all night because they needed a trainer to re-certify me. It was cooooold, friends. I had stopped on the way to work and bought a pair of tights to wear under my costume, had a long-sleeved shirt under my costume, a jacket, and two pairs of gloves. The only things that got really cold were my fingers and my nose. I may have to go to costuming again and ask for a beannie hat!
Highlight of the evening:
I saw a group of young gentlemen wearing familiar high school shirts and sweatshirts. Turns out they went to the same high school I did in California! I was so happy and excited to see them, and they told me of all the changes happening at my old school. I immediately wrote them a fast pass and one of them asked me which year I graduated.
They passed me again with high fives as they were going through the fast pass line. One of them, the one who asked which year I graduated, stopped and asked me, "Hey did you know Jackie B?"
"Jackie B? I graduated with her!"
"She's my Mom."
I didn't care. I grabbed him and hugged him. =)
The park was so full last night. There were two e-stops, which makes the wait time much, much longer. At one time we had a 200 minute wait for standby! For most of the night, it was 160 minutes! I spent my entire time at greeter saying, "Yes, the wait time is REALLY 160 minutes. That's 2 hours and 40 minutes. Yes, the wait time is REALLY 160 minutes!" We were able to clear most of it out during the fireworks and the longest it was after that was 30 minutes. From 12 am to 1 am it was a straight walk through.
When I left at 1:30, I had to sit and warm up the car quite a bit before I could drive home. It was covered in ice! As people would get to their cars and warm up, the steam from their exhausts would flow over my car and freeze. Cars that were by themselves or where no one had left yet were fine.
Tonight, I'm praying a trainer will be available to re-certify me so I can go through rotation. This means they have to explain to me the new cell phone policy and new lost child policy, click it off on my account, and then I'm qualified to push buttons again.
Off to check the weather report!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas!
"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7
O Lord, I always want to have room for You in my life.
We praise You, Father, as we remember how You sent Your Son to earth!
O Lord, I always want to have room for You in my life.
We praise You, Father, as we remember how You sent Your Son to earth!
Friday, December 24, 2010
It's Christmas Eve!
Yes, we were the crazy ones who waited until today to finish our Christmas shopping.
We went pretty early in the morning, so we actually beat most of the crowds at the mall. We had our lists, left our babies at home, and conquered!
Highlights in hilarity:
Himself: See that shiny red outfit in the store window? I'd pay you $100 if you wore it to church on Sunday.
Me: Those are pajamas!
Himself: $200 . . . .
At Target, we were repeatedly blocked from all progress. There was a woman in front of us at one point whose hips stood at least 12" wider than each side of her shopping cart. As she ambled along, she would drift, with her cart, toward whichever side she happened to be perusing. Himself was following behind me with our cart and I would try to go around her one way; she'd drift and cut me off. I'd try heading to the other side of her; she'd drift and cut me off.
Finally, I feigned right and when she went to cut me off, I zigged to the left! Ha!
Immediately, a man with shoulders the size of Texas stepped from an aisle and blocked my way.
I couldn't believe it.
The two of them blocked the entire aisle. I just prayed and prayed that they didn't know the meaning of Himself's laughter! He practically had tears streaming down his cheeks, he was laughing so hard!
I finally ducked down an aisle to cut across the store. The whole time Himself was chanting, "She's coming at ya! She's gonna get ya!" which of course referred to Miss Wide Angle. Finally, I successfully popped out into the area of intention and let out a "HA!"
At that moment, a very familiar voice spoke in my ear with, "What are you guys getting?"
Ack!
Sons should not sneak up on their mothers who are shopping at Christmas.
We went pretty early in the morning, so we actually beat most of the crowds at the mall. We had our lists, left our babies at home, and conquered!
Highlights in hilarity:
Himself: See that shiny red outfit in the store window? I'd pay you $100 if you wore it to church on Sunday.
Me: Those are pajamas!
Himself: $200 . . . .
At Target, we were repeatedly blocked from all progress. There was a woman in front of us at one point whose hips stood at least 12" wider than each side of her shopping cart. As she ambled along, she would drift, with her cart, toward whichever side she happened to be perusing. Himself was following behind me with our cart and I would try to go around her one way; she'd drift and cut me off. I'd try heading to the other side of her; she'd drift and cut me off.
Finally, I feigned right and when she went to cut me off, I zigged to the left! Ha!
Immediately, a man with shoulders the size of Texas stepped from an aisle and blocked my way.
I couldn't believe it.
The two of them blocked the entire aisle. I just prayed and prayed that they didn't know the meaning of Himself's laughter! He practically had tears streaming down his cheeks, he was laughing so hard!
I finally ducked down an aisle to cut across the store. The whole time Himself was chanting, "She's coming at ya! She's gonna get ya!" which of course referred to Miss Wide Angle. Finally, I successfully popped out into the area of intention and let out a "HA!"
At that moment, a very familiar voice spoke in my ear with, "What are you guys getting?"
Ack!
Sons should not sneak up on their mothers who are shopping at Christmas.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Since the Pinkie Swear
Ok, the update:
Himself has already shed 10 pounds, simply by not drinking any soda or milkshakes since the pinkie swear.
Don't hate, people. He can't help it that he's male.
I'd like to say I've lost 3 pounds. Of course, it can never be that simple - I bought these new shoes and they add (not kidding) two pounds (we checked) and then at work there's a scale in the bathroom that also looks to be off by two pounds and that's just too much math for me to handle when all I want is chocolate.
Our dear patients are determined to sabotage my efforts. This week we've been gifted with cake, cookies, truffles, bon bons, crackers, Belgian chocolate cups, more cookies, etc. I had to do a double pinkie-swear with Nancy to keep out of it!
Good thing she won't be in the office today.
Himself has already shed 10 pounds, simply by not drinking any soda or milkshakes since the pinkie swear.
Don't hate, people. He can't help it that he's male.
I'd like to say I've lost 3 pounds. Of course, it can never be that simple - I bought these new shoes and they add (not kidding) two pounds (we checked) and then at work there's a scale in the bathroom that also looks to be off by two pounds and that's just too much math for me to handle when all I want is chocolate.
Our dear patients are determined to sabotage my efforts. This week we've been gifted with cake, cookies, truffles, bon bons, crackers, Belgian chocolate cups, more cookies, etc. I had to do a double pinkie-swear with Nancy to keep out of it!
Good thing she won't be in the office today.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Lovely
Ty's Brown-Eyed-Girl sent me this photo. I love it.
I'm so glad Ty's over the phase of glaring at the camera whenever someone wanted to take his picture! That was so annoying.
One more day of work and then I'm off for three days! I plan on staying up late and sleeping in, not out of rebellion or anything, but to prepare me for my Space shifts next week. I'm so looking forward to getting back to the mountain!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
I Will Remember
Dear Mementos, Old Costume Jewelry, Trinkets and Tidbits,
You're probably wondering why I asked you here today.
Each of you came into my life through a special event. It may not have been a particularly earth-shattering event, but it was one that brought a smile to my face, laughter to my heart, or tears to my eyes. I have kept you around these many years to remind me of our special day together.
Here's the deal - I can't keep up with you anymore.
The dusting, storing, arranging, and upkeep of you has become a burden I can no longer carry, so I'm releasing you to bring joy to others.This doesn't mean I will forget our special day, it just means I no longer need you to remind me of it.
Thanks for the memories!
Whew! I spent an entire day doing laundry and cleaning my room yesterday. I still haven't finished, because I have dusting to do. I can't describe how good it felt to be able to walk across my bedroom floor again! Ty brought Jessie over and we were all in my room, BECAUSE WE COULD BE, laughing and chatting. I still have some taming-of-the-desk to do but I'm getting much closer to simplifying everything. It feels like I've actually conquered something!
Yesterday, I also wrote a chore list on our white board and invited any and all to pick up a chore. Glenna vacuumed the stairs and washed BOTH dogs (yes!). Himself cleaned off his own desk. We laughed and said we needed to add his desk and our room to the chore list, just so we could cross them off! If only Missy would stay out of my room - I could leave the door open all the time. She gets mad at me and leaves little "prizes" for me to find, so that can't happen. Ugh! Why do I let these dogs run my life?
I also went on the Hub to see if I was able to pick up any Space shifts during the week the dentist office is closed. Boy, did I! I'll be working four days, each shift BEGINNING at 7:30 or 8:15 PM. I can't wait to be back at the mountain, but I'm not looking forward to the late hours again. These days I'm a pumpkin-head by 9:30 at night. It's worth it, however, to keep my seasonal status at the park.
Off to prepare for the church brunch!
You're probably wondering why I asked you here today.
Each of you came into my life through a special event. It may not have been a particularly earth-shattering event, but it was one that brought a smile to my face, laughter to my heart, or tears to my eyes. I have kept you around these many years to remind me of our special day together.
Here's the deal - I can't keep up with you anymore.
The dusting, storing, arranging, and upkeep of you has become a burden I can no longer carry, so I'm releasing you to bring joy to others.This doesn't mean I will forget our special day, it just means I no longer need you to remind me of it.
Thanks for the memories!
Whew! I spent an entire day doing laundry and cleaning my room yesterday. I still haven't finished, because I have dusting to do. I can't describe how good it felt to be able to walk across my bedroom floor again! Ty brought Jessie over and we were all in my room, BECAUSE WE COULD BE, laughing and chatting. I still have some taming-of-the-desk to do but I'm getting much closer to simplifying everything. It feels like I've actually conquered something!
Yesterday, I also wrote a chore list on our white board and invited any and all to pick up a chore. Glenna vacuumed the stairs and washed BOTH dogs (yes!). Himself cleaned off his own desk. We laughed and said we needed to add his desk and our room to the chore list, just so we could cross them off! If only Missy would stay out of my room - I could leave the door open all the time. She gets mad at me and leaves little "prizes" for me to find, so that can't happen. Ugh! Why do I let these dogs run my life?
I also went on the Hub to see if I was able to pick up any Space shifts during the week the dentist office is closed. Boy, did I! I'll be working four days, each shift BEGINNING at 7:30 or 8:15 PM. I can't wait to be back at the mountain, but I'm not looking forward to the late hours again. These days I'm a pumpkin-head by 9:30 at night. It's worth it, however, to keep my seasonal status at the park.
Off to prepare for the church brunch!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Fabulous Friday
Drove all by my onsies last night to pick up our girl. I'm so, so proud of her for completing her first semester of college!
I'm also so happy that she's home for Three Whole Weeks!
I'm also so happy that she's home for Three Whole Weeks!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
A Magical Night
On December 4th, my family graciously encouraged me to meet up with some friends at Disney.
It was so. FUN.
Brieanna and Ashley were two of the CP's (College Program) who worked with me at Space. This is the lighting that we're in the entire time unless the ride breaks down.
The first time I saw them, I came home and told Kelly how alive and vibrant and amazing they were! They just breathe life into any room. Some of you may remember Brieanna's gentle reminder to be careful how I portray people on this blog and I have never forgotten it.
(She thought I was calling her a mean girl. I meant that she knew her business and I needed to know my business, too!)
Anyway, they invited me out for a night at MK and I'm so, so glad I went! It was so out of character for me - meeting up with a group of people at 6 pm, playing all night, then driving home in the wee hours. I felt like I was 18 again, but they've always treated me like one of their peers at work. I love these girls!
Here's Brieanna without her curls. She's so gorgeous!
Disney really goes all out at Christmas and makes the park so beautiful. Here, the castle is covered in lights and it looks like ice has formed. The castle would turn different colors all night, each one so beautiful. The "ice" turned off during the fireworks show.
We were joined by Josh, Nick, and Tony, whom I also worked with. Oops, except I didn't work with Nick - he's a speedway cast member. We always feel so badly for the speedway guys out in the heat and gas fumes all day, but he says he just loves the speedway crew.
We went on so many rides that I've never ridden before, such as Winnie the Pooh and Philharmagic. We must have spent most of our time in Fantasyland.
The following blurry photo is what a very bad idea looks like:
When it's cold outside, don't go on Splash Mountain.
Top row: Ashley and Nick.
Middle Row: Josh and Tony (who lost their gentlemen cards that night!)
Front Row: Brie and Me, about to get VERY wet and thus saving the "gentlemen" who dived into the middle row, forcing us to take the front and the splash!
Yes, I'm holding onto Brie for dear life.
Here we are afterward:
Ashley was laughing so hard, I'm surprised she got the picture! Josh is the one in glasses. Tony has little cat ears on his beannie hat. The cute hat didn't save him from the lecture, believe me!
Why did I even bother with my hair?
After the splashdown, we headed for main street to watch the fireworks. Brie and Ashley have worked the greeter rotation so many times that they have every line and boom and swish memorized. Wishes! Here we are before the show with now wet and frizzy hair:
After the fireworks, Josh had to leave us because of his 6am shift the next morning.
When I was on my way from the cast parking lot to meet them, I ran into a friend on the cast bus. He told me he was working three "sets" at Pixie Hollow and that he would leave my name at the entrance so we could go around the line. After Josh left, we hurried to Pixie Hollow to meet Terrence, friend of Tinkerbell!
Anyone recognize him? ;-)
Terrence was SO much fun and had us all laughing. Ashley is always smiling like that, though!
He introduced himself to each of us and when he got to me, he asked, "What's your name?"
Blink.
"What's your name?"
I just stood there with a stupid grin on my face. I didn't know whether to say MrsJLW or J or WHAT, and there he was, this guy who was my former Jr. High student, and he had an acorn on his head. He broke character a little and laughed silently.
"Does she have a name?" he asked the group. "Should we give her a new one?"
After coating us with Pixie dust so we could fly, he quickly arranged a game of "fly and go seek" with us.
Brie, hiding in Pixie Hollow
Tinkerbell, "hiding"
Surprisingly, none of us cast members had ever been to Pixie Hollow before. We didn't even know where it was! When I asked "Terrence" how to get there when we were on the bus, even he didn't know for sure, saying, "You know, I've never gotten there from the park before."
Just so you all know, it's in Toon Town, in the Judges' Tent.
Group shot!
Nick, Me, Terrence, Brieanna, Ashley, Tony
Here we are with Tinkerbell:
See the ears on Tony's hat?
We had a group photo with another fairy, but I look fat in that picture so you KNOW it's not going up. Just so you know, I was wearing my jacket with all the amazing pockets and the pockets were full so I didn't have to carry anything.
[crickets]
Whatever.
After Pixie Hollow, we headed to Space Mountain to ride and so Brie and Ashely could get their things. It was SO great to see so many of my castmates! I really, really miss them! I can't wait to pick up some shifts at the end of December so I can see them again.
I also can't wait for February, when Brie comes back from Wisconsin, Ashely comes back from Tennessee, and hopefully my other castmates will join us for another magical night!
It was so. FUN.
Brieanna and Ashley were two of the CP's (College Program) who worked with me at Space. This is the lighting that we're in the entire time unless the ride breaks down.
The first time I saw them, I came home and told Kelly how alive and vibrant and amazing they were! They just breathe life into any room. Some of you may remember Brieanna's gentle reminder to be careful how I portray people on this blog and I have never forgotten it.
(She thought I was calling her a mean girl. I meant that she knew her business and I needed to know my business, too!)
Anyway, they invited me out for a night at MK and I'm so, so glad I went! It was so out of character for me - meeting up with a group of people at 6 pm, playing all night, then driving home in the wee hours. I felt like I was 18 again, but they've always treated me like one of their peers at work. I love these girls!
Here's Brieanna without her curls. She's so gorgeous!
Disney really goes all out at Christmas and makes the park so beautiful. Here, the castle is covered in lights and it looks like ice has formed. The castle would turn different colors all night, each one so beautiful. The "ice" turned off during the fireworks show.
We were joined by Josh, Nick, and Tony, whom I also worked with. Oops, except I didn't work with Nick - he's a speedway cast member. We always feel so badly for the speedway guys out in the heat and gas fumes all day, but he says he just loves the speedway crew.
We went on so many rides that I've never ridden before, such as Winnie the Pooh and Philharmagic. We must have spent most of our time in Fantasyland.
The following blurry photo is what a very bad idea looks like:
When it's cold outside, don't go on Splash Mountain.
Top row: Ashley and Nick.
Middle Row: Josh and Tony (who lost their gentlemen cards that night!)
Front Row: Brie and Me, about to get VERY wet and thus saving the "gentlemen" who dived into the middle row, forcing us to take the front and the splash!
Yes, I'm holding onto Brie for dear life.
Here we are afterward:
Ashley was laughing so hard, I'm surprised she got the picture! Josh is the one in glasses. Tony has little cat ears on his beannie hat. The cute hat didn't save him from the lecture, believe me!
Why did I even bother with my hair?
After the splashdown, we headed for main street to watch the fireworks. Brie and Ashley have worked the greeter rotation so many times that they have every line and boom and swish memorized. Wishes! Here we are before the show with now wet and frizzy hair:
After the fireworks, Josh had to leave us because of his 6am shift the next morning.
When I was on my way from the cast parking lot to meet them, I ran into a friend on the cast bus. He told me he was working three "sets" at Pixie Hollow and that he would leave my name at the entrance so we could go around the line. After Josh left, we hurried to Pixie Hollow to meet Terrence, friend of Tinkerbell!
Anyone recognize him? ;-)
Terrence was SO much fun and had us all laughing. Ashley is always smiling like that, though!
He introduced himself to each of us and when he got to me, he asked, "What's your name?"
Blink.
"What's your name?"
I just stood there with a stupid grin on my face. I didn't know whether to say MrsJLW or J or WHAT, and there he was, this guy who was my former Jr. High student, and he had an acorn on his head. He broke character a little and laughed silently.
"Does she have a name?" he asked the group. "Should we give her a new one?"
After coating us with Pixie dust so we could fly, he quickly arranged a game of "fly and go seek" with us.
Brie, hiding in Pixie Hollow
Tinkerbell, "hiding"
Surprisingly, none of us cast members had ever been to Pixie Hollow before. We didn't even know where it was! When I asked "Terrence" how to get there when we were on the bus, even he didn't know for sure, saying, "You know, I've never gotten there from the park before."
Just so you all know, it's in Toon Town, in the Judges' Tent.
Group shot!
Nick, Me, Terrence, Brieanna, Ashley, Tony
Here we are with Tinkerbell:
See the ears on Tony's hat?
We had a group photo with another fairy, but I look fat in that picture so you KNOW it's not going up. Just so you know, I was wearing my jacket with all the amazing pockets and the pockets were full so I didn't have to carry anything.
[crickets]
Whatever.
After Pixie Hollow, we headed to Space Mountain to ride and so Brie and Ashely could get their things. It was SO great to see so many of my castmates! I really, really miss them! I can't wait to pick up some shifts at the end of December so I can see them again.
I also can't wait for February, when Brie comes back from Wisconsin, Ashely comes back from Tennessee, and hopefully my other castmates will join us for another magical night!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Yes!
Congratulations to Tyler, who has now passed seven out of seven ASE exams! This means that after the required job experience of two years (one of which was his year in school) he will be Master Certified in diesel!
That's a National certification, you guys.
Back flips encouraged.
=D
That's a National certification, you guys.
Back flips encouraged.
=D
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Sunday Night Special
I haven't posted in so long.
I'm just dealin' with it all, friends. Wheelin' and dealin'.
Coping?
I hope to get some photos up soon, but my computer time is limited to when I actually have a computer.
Still gathering info for the insurance company. We're almost there.
AWANA was fun tonight! I loved the lesson and believe I could have spent the entire year talking about Hebrews 10:1-18. Our God is amazing!
I'm just dealin' with it all, friends. Wheelin' and dealin'.
Coping?
I hope to get some photos up soon, but my computer time is limited to when I actually have a computer.
Still gathering info for the insurance company. We're almost there.
AWANA was fun tonight! I loved the lesson and believe I could have spent the entire year talking about Hebrews 10:1-18. Our God is amazing!
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
. . .and On. .
Insurance forms arrived today. I have to show proof that the items were mine and in my possession. They want receipts, repair bills, warranties, photos (HAHAHAHA) or other such proof.
Anyone who knows me knows that insurance companies send me through the roof.
THE ROOF.
They want the replacement cost value. Time to do some research!
Anyone who knows me knows that insurance companies send me through the roof.
THE ROOF.
They want the replacement cost value. Time to do some research!
Monday, November 29, 2010
On and On It Goes
When the Deputy took our report from the robbery, he left a form for us to use when we discovered more things missing.
When. Not If.
Today, I'm extremely thankful for this blog.
I had carefully downloaded all of my photos from my laptop onto an external hard drive, then deleted them from my computer. The hard drive was an old one that a friend gave me and was held together by rubber bands.
The thieves took it.
They did not take the snappy, sleek external hard drive that Himself had in his desk drawer.
Most of the pictures that were on that external drive have been posted on this blog. Most, but not all.
I had downloaded a program that will help me turn this blog into books. I wanted to do that especially with the story about Himself's family, but I'm even more motivated now. I'm so glad I posted those blogs about my step-dad. I'm so glad I posted so many things.
Of course, now I have to re-download it. The only working computer we have is Himself's, and that's because it was with him in Miami.
Just when I thought I was getting over the anger!
When. Not If.
Today, I'm extremely thankful for this blog.
I had carefully downloaded all of my photos from my laptop onto an external hard drive, then deleted them from my computer. The hard drive was an old one that a friend gave me and was held together by rubber bands.
The thieves took it.
They did not take the snappy, sleek external hard drive that Himself had in his desk drawer.
Most of the pictures that were on that external drive have been posted on this blog. Most, but not all.
I had downloaded a program that will help me turn this blog into books. I wanted to do that especially with the story about Himself's family, but I'm even more motivated now. I'm so glad I posted those blogs about my step-dad. I'm so glad I posted so many things.
Of course, now I have to re-download it. The only working computer we have is Himself's, and that's because it was with him in Miami.
Just when I thought I was getting over the anger!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
And Away We Go!
We pinkie swore.
Himself and I will be celebrating our 25th Anniversary in February. Because I have such incredible discounts at the park (The Mouse is very generous at Christmas!), we will be staying in one of the resorts for three days and two nights. I can't wait, and I'm already drawing up an itinerary for our trip and putting aside all the extra dollars I can! ($275 massage for two? No. $18 for all day bike rentals? Yes.)
I've informed him that I want to do everything there is to do at Disney that's free or cheap, so he'd better start preparing for a lot of walking! I can't have him petering out and needing a mid-day nap; at least, not on the day I've scheduled for the parks. I mentioned a weight amount I'd like to lose and he mentioned a weight amount he'd like to lose, and we both discussed ways to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Then I held out my pinkie so we could swear on it.
And I held it out.
And I held it out.
And Kelly yelled from the back seat of the Escape "Don't withdraw your hand, Mom! Keep that pressure up!"
And I held it out.
Oh. It's so hard to die to self.
For him, this means goodbye Chik-Fil-A milkshakes! Goodbye nightly ice cream! Goodbye rich foods when eating out during travel!
For me, this means goodbye to flavored coffees and junk foods. It means getting off my behind and exercise.
My friend Lisa McP recently did a walk for breast cancer awareness. She walked 20 miles per day for three days. At the end her feet were ruined (horrible blisters, she needed to use crutches for a while!) but she ended up losing 10 pounds. Now, 10 pounds in three days is a bit drastic, but for me it's a worthy goal from now until February!
Finally,. . . finally. . . with a shout of anger. . . he grabbed my pinkie with his pinkie and sealed the deal. Today he had his coffee black, the way he used to drink it.
Neither of us have decent shoes to walk in. Just when I thought I'd have to finagle our budget around, I went to the mailbox and discovered a refund check from our deposit on Tyler's college housing!
Looks like God is in these plans, too!
"Come on everybody, here we gooooooo!"
Himself and I will be celebrating our 25th Anniversary in February. Because I have such incredible discounts at the park (The Mouse is very generous at Christmas!), we will be staying in one of the resorts for three days and two nights. I can't wait, and I'm already drawing up an itinerary for our trip and putting aside all the extra dollars I can! ($275 massage for two? No. $18 for all day bike rentals? Yes.)
I've informed him that I want to do everything there is to do at Disney that's free or cheap, so he'd better start preparing for a lot of walking! I can't have him petering out and needing a mid-day nap; at least, not on the day I've scheduled for the parks. I mentioned a weight amount I'd like to lose and he mentioned a weight amount he'd like to lose, and we both discussed ways to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Then I held out my pinkie so we could swear on it.
And I held it out.
And I held it out.
And Kelly yelled from the back seat of the Escape "Don't withdraw your hand, Mom! Keep that pressure up!"
And I held it out.
Oh. It's so hard to die to self.
For him, this means goodbye Chik-Fil-A milkshakes! Goodbye nightly ice cream! Goodbye rich foods when eating out during travel!
For me, this means goodbye to flavored coffees and junk foods. It means getting off my behind and exercise.
My friend Lisa McP recently did a walk for breast cancer awareness. She walked 20 miles per day for three days. At the end her feet were ruined (horrible blisters, she needed to use crutches for a while!) but she ended up losing 10 pounds. Now, 10 pounds in three days is a bit drastic, but for me it's a worthy goal from now until February!
Finally,. . . finally. . . with a shout of anger. . . he grabbed my pinkie with his pinkie and sealed the deal. Today he had his coffee black, the way he used to drink it.
Neither of us have decent shoes to walk in. Just when I thought I'd have to finagle our budget around, I went to the mailbox and discovered a refund check from our deposit on Tyler's college housing!
Looks like God is in these plans, too!
"Come on everybody, here we gooooooo!"
Thursday, November 25, 2010
The Angry Post
Yesterday, our house was robbed.
Mom, we're all fine. We weren't home.
I came home from work and picked up the girls to go to lunch and Target. We were gone maybe 2 hours. When we returned and opened the door (it was locked), we noticed a huge brick paver on the floor and broken glass everywhere.
Like an idiot incident #1; I immediately looked up at the ceiling. "What? Where did THAT come from?" Within seconds, Kelly and I realized what had happened.
Like an idiot incident #2; we ran INTO the house to see what happened. (Folks, don't ever do this. Shut the door, call the police, and wait. What if they were still here?)
The jerks knew what they were doing. They had gloves on because the police couldn't get a single print. They stole 5 laptops (one was Tyler's old, broken one, and one was a laptop Himself was turning in from work), ipods, ipod touch, and some cash Glenna had on her dresser. They completely ransacked every room and drawer. They destroyed my grandmother's jewelry box by smashing it on the ground. They soon discovered that the only valuable jewelry I have is on my left hand ring finger! I don't think they took any of the cosmetic stuff. (Mom, at first I thought they took grandma's class ring. They didn't.) I think they were looking for cash. They took Ty's Playstation, and cut the surround sound speakers and took them (all except for one over the piano).
They were in the process of taking a television from Ty's room when something scared them off. We think it was my neighbor coming home that did it.
I am so, so angry.
Our youth pastor came and stayed with me until Himself came home (he was driving home from Miami). Then our pastor and his wife came and helped with cleanup, and pastor helped Himself board the window with plywood. We called the bank and put a hold on our account. We called our insurance company.
I'm still so, so angry.
I have left Glenna home alone while I went to work in the mornings. I will no longer do this, but I don't know WHAT I'm going to do yet. The poor dogs were traumatized. Missy was in her kennel directly under the window that was smashed. She eliminated in the kennel.
A couple of humorous-in-a-weird-way incidents:
Glenna's room was so messy that they didn't notice her ipod that had fallen on her floor among the clothes, books, etc. She was spared!
Our next door neighbor has a security camera pointing to our mutual driveways. We called to ask him about it and he said it was a fake and not hooked up to anything.
When I entered my room, I noticed some Christmas gifts scattered on the floor. My immediate reaction was, "Hide those! Don't let the girls see them!" It's the only part of the crime scene I touched before the police arrived.
Jack also eliminated by the door. Ty suggested he was setting a trap for the burglars and was hoping they'd slip and fall, knock unconscious, and be there for the police to grab.
Some things that kept me sane:
Kelly took my hand and reminded me, "It's just stuff, Mom. We're all fine." Pastor's wife also reminded me of this.
My neighbors stayed with me as well and offered to let us stay with them until Himself came home. Since I was busy with the police, this wasn't necessary. Still, so sweet.
Both Tyler and Himself kept calling me as they sped toward the house. Then they both realized they were driving like angry madmen and forced themselves to slow down! I can't tell you what a relief it was when they both arrived home safely.
Folks, locks don't matter. If people want in they'll get in. I've always known this, but yesterday was my dose of reality.
Mom, we're all fine. We weren't home.
I came home from work and picked up the girls to go to lunch and Target. We were gone maybe 2 hours. When we returned and opened the door (it was locked), we noticed a huge brick paver on the floor and broken glass everywhere.
Like an idiot incident #1; I immediately looked up at the ceiling. "What? Where did THAT come from?" Within seconds, Kelly and I realized what had happened.
Like an idiot incident #2; we ran INTO the house to see what happened. (Folks, don't ever do this. Shut the door, call the police, and wait. What if they were still here?)
The jerks knew what they were doing. They had gloves on because the police couldn't get a single print. They stole 5 laptops (one was Tyler's old, broken one, and one was a laptop Himself was turning in from work), ipods, ipod touch, and some cash Glenna had on her dresser. They completely ransacked every room and drawer. They destroyed my grandmother's jewelry box by smashing it on the ground. They soon discovered that the only valuable jewelry I have is on my left hand ring finger! I don't think they took any of the cosmetic stuff. (Mom, at first I thought they took grandma's class ring. They didn't.) I think they were looking for cash. They took Ty's Playstation, and cut the surround sound speakers and took them (all except for one over the piano).
They were in the process of taking a television from Ty's room when something scared them off. We think it was my neighbor coming home that did it.
I am so, so angry.
Our youth pastor came and stayed with me until Himself came home (he was driving home from Miami). Then our pastor and his wife came and helped with cleanup, and pastor helped Himself board the window with plywood. We called the bank and put a hold on our account. We called our insurance company.
I'm still so, so angry.
I have left Glenna home alone while I went to work in the mornings. I will no longer do this, but I don't know WHAT I'm going to do yet. The poor dogs were traumatized. Missy was in her kennel directly under the window that was smashed. She eliminated in the kennel.
A couple of humorous-in-a-weird-way incidents:
Glenna's room was so messy that they didn't notice her ipod that had fallen on her floor among the clothes, books, etc. She was spared!
Our next door neighbor has a security camera pointing to our mutual driveways. We called to ask him about it and he said it was a fake and not hooked up to anything.
When I entered my room, I noticed some Christmas gifts scattered on the floor. My immediate reaction was, "Hide those! Don't let the girls see them!" It's the only part of the crime scene I touched before the police arrived.
Jack also eliminated by the door. Ty suggested he was setting a trap for the burglars and was hoping they'd slip and fall, knock unconscious, and be there for the police to grab.
Some things that kept me sane:
Kelly took my hand and reminded me, "It's just stuff, Mom. We're all fine." Pastor's wife also reminded me of this.
My neighbors stayed with me as well and offered to let us stay with them until Himself came home. Since I was busy with the police, this wasn't necessary. Still, so sweet.
Both Tyler and Himself kept calling me as they sped toward the house. Then they both realized they were driving like angry madmen and forced themselves to slow down! I can't tell you what a relief it was when they both arrived home safely.
Folks, locks don't matter. If people want in they'll get in. I've always known this, but yesterday was my dose of reality.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
It's Me
I feel like I haven't blogged in a million years.
Life is CRAZY, guys.
I'm also trying to detox again from all the things that give me migraines. I just started yesterday by enduring day two of a migraine without taking any medication. Not fun.
I know the timing stinks because the holidays are coming up, and I've been warned by a co-worker that the office becomes flooded with junk. My friend, Nancy, and I decided that we'd hold each other accountable about eating the stuff.
It's going to be a long holiday season, but I look forward to shedding some pounds again!
Life is CRAZY, guys.
I'm also trying to detox again from all the things that give me migraines. I just started yesterday by enduring day two of a migraine without taking any medication. Not fun.
I know the timing stinks because the holidays are coming up, and I've been warned by a co-worker that the office becomes flooded with junk. My friend, Nancy, and I decided that we'd hold each other accountable about eating the stuff.
It's going to be a long holiday season, but I look forward to shedding some pounds again!
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
Friday, November 05, 2010
Lunches
I am so enjoying this season God has given me with my son, before he's out on his own for good. I have even enjoyed preparing lunches for him each day.
As I shop for foods, I realize that he's not the cute little kid with the Spiderman Lunch Box anymore, and I have to be kind of careful with my choices. He does, after all, work with Diesel Technicians. Can you say "burly men"? Pudding cups and Fruit cups are probably out of the question.
My theory was proven when I made him two Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and stacked them in plastic containers so they wouldn't get smashed. One of his co-workers leaned over and remarked, "What you got there? A loaf of bread?" Since Ty never knows what he's getting until he opens his lunch box, he was thinking the exact same thing. He was very relieved to find there were actual sandwiches.
His lunch room is also divided by not classes, but by language. Those who speak Spanish naturally sit together. Everyone also has their "regular" seat, and there was only one seat left in the English section when Ty started working there.
One day, I packed him a lunch of leftovers. This is usually just fine since it would involve spaghetti, salad, and garlic bread. This day, however, it was literal leftovers. I had some black beans. I had some shredded chicken. I had some shredded cheese. I had some tortillas. He opened his box and stood in line for the microwave (there are 3 of them) and his Spanish speaking friends took note of his food.
"Hey, what you got there? Maybe you should be sitting with us, eh?"
"Yeah!" said an English speaker. "And if you do, don't come back!"
What is positively, unequivocally, and undoubtedly forbidden, I'm sure, would be a cute note from his Mom telling him how wonderful he is.
I do, after all, want him to come home alive.
As I shop for foods, I realize that he's not the cute little kid with the Spiderman Lunch Box anymore, and I have to be kind of careful with my choices. He does, after all, work with Diesel Technicians. Can you say "burly men"? Pudding cups and Fruit cups are probably out of the question.
My theory was proven when I made him two Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and stacked them in plastic containers so they wouldn't get smashed. One of his co-workers leaned over and remarked, "What you got there? A loaf of bread?" Since Ty never knows what he's getting until he opens his lunch box, he was thinking the exact same thing. He was very relieved to find there were actual sandwiches.
His lunch room is also divided by not classes, but by language. Those who speak Spanish naturally sit together. Everyone also has their "regular" seat, and there was only one seat left in the English section when Ty started working there.
One day, I packed him a lunch of leftovers. This is usually just fine since it would involve spaghetti, salad, and garlic bread. This day, however, it was literal leftovers. I had some black beans. I had some shredded chicken. I had some shredded cheese. I had some tortillas. He opened his box and stood in line for the microwave (there are 3 of them) and his Spanish speaking friends took note of his food.
"Hey, what you got there? Maybe you should be sitting with us, eh?"
"Yeah!" said an English speaker. "And if you do, don't come back!"
What is positively, unequivocally, and undoubtedly forbidden, I'm sure, would be a cute note from his Mom telling him how wonderful he is.
I do, after all, want him to come home alive.
Thursday, November 04, 2010
A Song
There was a song we used to sing in Sunday School when I was a young girl.
I have never understood it.
I wish I had a little black box
To put my Jesus in
I'd take Him out and
[kiss kiss kiss]
Then put Him back again!
As I'm typing this, Glenna is correcting me. She says Jesus goes in the white box and the devil goes in the black box. She also says that the last words are "and put Him right back in."
I still don't understand it.
White box or black box, I don't want my Savior in a box.
Now Glenna's telling me that the devil gets spankings instead of kisses and tossed back in the box, while Jesus gets kisses and then He's shared with a friend.
Why didn't my lame-o Sunday School teacher tell me THAT? (Yes, I said lame-o, and he was kind of a creeper. No Mom, he never did anything creepy, he just put Jesus in a box.)
I have never understood it.
I wish I had a little black box
To put my Jesus in
I'd take Him out and
[kiss kiss kiss]
Then put Him back again!
As I'm typing this, Glenna is correcting me. She says Jesus goes in the white box and the devil goes in the black box. She also says that the last words are "and put Him right back in."
I still don't understand it.
White box or black box, I don't want my Savior in a box.
Now Glenna's telling me that the devil gets spankings instead of kisses and tossed back in the box, while Jesus gets kisses and then He's shared with a friend.
Why didn't my lame-o Sunday School teacher tell me THAT? (Yes, I said lame-o, and he was kind of a creeper. No Mom, he never did anything creepy, he just put Jesus in a box.)
Friday, October 29, 2010
A Small Gesture of Great Significance
Dear Family at that Restaurant in Bronson, Missouri;
You noticed my Dad and his friends, a group of six senior citizens, were ooohing and ahhhing over the honey cornbread muffins. You also noticed my Dad was wearing his veteran hat that showed he served in Korea. You then sent an order of honey cornbread muffins to their table with the following note:
Sir,
It's because of men like you that my family enjoys its freedom today. Thank you for serving our country and God bless.
You brought my Dad to tears that day, and he cried again when he read your note to me over the phone.
Thank YOU, and God bless YOU! And thank you for reminding me that a simple gesture means the world to our senior veterans. I hope I get the opportunity to do the same.
You noticed my Dad and his friends, a group of six senior citizens, were ooohing and ahhhing over the honey cornbread muffins. You also noticed my Dad was wearing his veteran hat that showed he served in Korea. You then sent an order of honey cornbread muffins to their table with the following note:
Sir,
It's because of men like you that my family enjoys its freedom today. Thank you for serving our country and God bless.
You brought my Dad to tears that day, and he cried again when he read your note to me over the phone.
Thank YOU, and God bless YOU! And thank you for reminding me that a simple gesture means the world to our senior veterans. I hope I get the opportunity to do the same.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
A Way with Words
I am beginning to see why Tabitha, my co-worker, is someone whom Kelly loves so much from her years of working for Dr. D. I've decided to compile a list strictly from the words she chooses.
Words Tabitha uses:
This will be easy.
You'll get it.
You'll figure it out.
Keep trying.
That happened to me, too (or) I've done that mistake before.
That looks great!
Nice one!
You're so ready for this!
I can understand how you feel.
Words Tabitha does not use with me:
Forget it.
Never mind.
I'll take care of it.
Give me that!
I also love how she never rescues me from my failures. She's so patient and gives me room to try again, which always results in success, which in turn produces confidence. Instead of making me feel like I have just ruined everything and the world is going to end, she actually laughs out loud! I don't feel like she's laughing at me, rather she's laughing because her same struggles are now happening to me and she can so relate.
What a woman!
Words Tabitha uses:
This will be easy.
You'll get it.
You'll figure it out.
Keep trying.
That happened to me, too (or) I've done that mistake before.
That looks great!
Nice one!
You're so ready for this!
I can understand how you feel.
Words Tabitha does not use with me:
Forget it.
Never mind.
I'll take care of it.
Give me that!
I also love how she never rescues me from my failures. She's so patient and gives me room to try again, which always results in success, which in turn produces confidence. Instead of making me feel like I have just ruined everything and the world is going to end, she actually laughs out loud! I don't feel like she's laughing at me, rather she's laughing because her same struggles are now happening to me and she can so relate.
What a woman!
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