I'm having one of those so-so mornings ... I mean sew-sew.
On the way out the door, I noticed my pants had a hole in them -- someplace most people wouldn't look, but I would know all day, and feel self-conscious. Since I didn't have time to change, I grabbed my little sewing kit and headed out.
"What?" you say. Robyn, the undomestic goddess has a sewing kit? Yes, and I know how to use it.
A few years ago, I actually had a sewing machine, too, but got rid of it on a garage sale with a sign that said: "Used only once!" or something like that. But I have been known to sew on a button or mend a hole now and then -- even without the aid of any sort of "sewing for dummies" book. I know, this is killing my reputation.
This morning, I have to say it took longer to thread the needle in the moving car (no, I wasn't driving) than it took to actually sew the pants! It took about 5 miles to get the thread in the needle. Then, much to my driver's delight (ha, ha), I pulled my pants down and started sewing. He says, "I hope we drive next to a semi." I said, "I'll get these sewn before we get to the highway."
It was a close call, but I got the task completed before we passed any tall vehicles on the four-lane. So, not only am I domestic, and a goddess, I can sew faster than the speed of ... slow-moving vehicles!
I know, no need to say it, my talents are mind-boggling. And, I know, the fact that I feel the need to share the details with you, more head-scratching than mind-boggling... Thanks for humoring me.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Beating the Odds
After considering the costs of military school (not kidding) and a new vehicle, we made sure we bought our Powerball tickets for tonight. The jackpot is estimated at $75 million. But we buy our tickets even when it's a lowly $5 million. That's just our routine.
My sister Rayna, deep in her heart, believes someday she is going to win the Powerball. The odds will be in her favor. She just doesn't know when. I, on the other hand, know it is quite unlikely I will win the big jackpot. I still buy the tickets each week, just in case, but deep in my heart, I know God won't let me win. He knows I couldn't handle it. He knows I'd fall to temptation.
He's probably right.
So I expect we'll go about life like most folks do, working for a living, paying our bills, putting food on the table and enjoying a luxury now and then. It doesn't sound like much, but it is. More than we often realize.
I want to tell you a little bit about the non-glamorous side of San Diego (actually insert just about any city name here ... maybe even your own town). Here we have this tourist destination with its beautiful harbor filled with expensive sailboats and yachts. Its trendy downtown shops where tourists pay a hundred bucks for a "San Diego" sweatshirt. Its celebrity-owned restaurants where patrons drop 50 dollars a plate.
Then, when the sun goes down, we have the woman on the street corner, holding a plastic bag with her clothes, asking for 50 cents. There is the man in the wheelchair, holding a sign that says, "I bet you $1.00 you can read this," then demanding you pay him when he realizes you get the joke...
When we're on the road for business, we often eat in nice restaurants to entertain clients or treat ourselves to a decent meal after a hard day's work at the show. The first two nights of my recent trip, a Friday and Saturday, there were so many people walking about, I did not see the scene described above -- just one woman leaning up against a building with her backpack and a sign the said: "Stranded. Help in any way you can."
I remembered her, though. On the last night there, a Sunday, two of us grabbed some pizza in that same busy downtown area. I asked to have the leftover pizza boxed up and told my dinner companion, "in case we see any more homeless on the way back to the hotel."
We had only gone a few blocks when I saw that same woman, sitting by the building, with a baseball cap on to shield her face. I bent down and said, "Do you want something to eat?" She said, "Sure!" When she looked up, I was staring into the eyes of a beautiful young woman, maybe college age. This is the face of homelessness? I was so surprised that I just mumbled, "Here. It's just leftover pizza," and walked away. What I meant to say was "How did you end up here, on the streets, stranded?" and "How else can I help you?" But I didn't say those things.
But I didn't forget them, or her, either. I was so haunted by that pretty face that I spent many hours that night praying for her and, intermittently, thanking God for my many, many blessings. Knowing that God, in his own way, has put the odds in my favor after all.
My sister Rayna, deep in her heart, believes someday she is going to win the Powerball. The odds will be in her favor. She just doesn't know when. I, on the other hand, know it is quite unlikely I will win the big jackpot. I still buy the tickets each week, just in case, but deep in my heart, I know God won't let me win. He knows I couldn't handle it. He knows I'd fall to temptation.
He's probably right.
So I expect we'll go about life like most folks do, working for a living, paying our bills, putting food on the table and enjoying a luxury now and then. It doesn't sound like much, but it is. More than we often realize.
I want to tell you a little bit about the non-glamorous side of San Diego (actually insert just about any city name here ... maybe even your own town). Here we have this tourist destination with its beautiful harbor filled with expensive sailboats and yachts. Its trendy downtown shops where tourists pay a hundred bucks for a "San Diego" sweatshirt. Its celebrity-owned restaurants where patrons drop 50 dollars a plate.
Then, when the sun goes down, we have the woman on the street corner, holding a plastic bag with her clothes, asking for 50 cents. There is the man in the wheelchair, holding a sign that says, "I bet you $1.00 you can read this," then demanding you pay him when he realizes you get the joke...
When we're on the road for business, we often eat in nice restaurants to entertain clients or treat ourselves to a decent meal after a hard day's work at the show. The first two nights of my recent trip, a Friday and Saturday, there were so many people walking about, I did not see the scene described above -- just one woman leaning up against a building with her backpack and a sign the said: "Stranded. Help in any way you can."
I remembered her, though. On the last night there, a Sunday, two of us grabbed some pizza in that same busy downtown area. I asked to have the leftover pizza boxed up and told my dinner companion, "in case we see any more homeless on the way back to the hotel."
We had only gone a few blocks when I saw that same woman, sitting by the building, with a baseball cap on to shield her face. I bent down and said, "Do you want something to eat?" She said, "Sure!" When she looked up, I was staring into the eyes of a beautiful young woman, maybe college age. This is the face of homelessness? I was so surprised that I just mumbled, "Here. It's just leftover pizza," and walked away. What I meant to say was "How did you end up here, on the streets, stranded?" and "How else can I help you?" But I didn't say those things.
But I didn't forget them, or her, either. I was so haunted by that pretty face that I spent many hours that night praying for her and, intermittently, thanking God for my many, many blessings. Knowing that God, in his own way, has put the odds in my favor after all.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
I'm Grounded
Well I think my feet are grounded again after floating on my "Ponch high" for a few days. I know, I need to get a life, right? Trust me, a busy day at work, thrown in with a few of life's challenges pretty much can put me back to normal at warp speed (oh no, I must refrain from those Trekkie phrases).
While I certainly enjoyed being back at work and showing off my autographed photo (plus the blog), it was a crazy day after being out of the office since Thursday. Plus, hubby is dealing with a bit of a shake-up in his department so we're not sure what the future holds in store there. Uncertainty is certainly a bit scary, but who knows, it could mean something good down the road, too.
On the home front, we had the van in the shop again -- just a month after it was in the last time. The expensive "tune-up" has prompted us to think about vehicle shopping, even casually, just to be prepared. It sure has been nice not having a car payment for a few years!
When we got home and got the mail, we got the news our dear middle son did not do well in summer school. Well, let's not sugar coat it. He flunked both classes. I can't even express in words our frustration and disappointment. He is supposed to come live with us again in a few short weeks for the next school year. Judging by his effort (or lack of it) this summer, I see this is going to be even more challenging than his stay at the end of last school year. Yes, we're up for it. Yes, we want to help, more than we can say. The question is, will he let us? Lord, help us.
So, when I think how silly I've been about meeting an aging, former TV star, I'm not embarrassed a bit. We all need silly, snuggly moments now and then to ease our tension and create a memory that will bring a smile to our lips as needed. It's therapeutic actually. Thanks, Dr. Estrada!
While I certainly enjoyed being back at work and showing off my autographed photo (plus the blog), it was a crazy day after being out of the office since Thursday. Plus, hubby is dealing with a bit of a shake-up in his department so we're not sure what the future holds in store there. Uncertainty is certainly a bit scary, but who knows, it could mean something good down the road, too.
On the home front, we had the van in the shop again -- just a month after it was in the last time. The expensive "tune-up" has prompted us to think about vehicle shopping, even casually, just to be prepared. It sure has been nice not having a car payment for a few years!
When we got home and got the mail, we got the news our dear middle son did not do well in summer school. Well, let's not sugar coat it. He flunked both classes. I can't even express in words our frustration and disappointment. He is supposed to come live with us again in a few short weeks for the next school year. Judging by his effort (or lack of it) this summer, I see this is going to be even more challenging than his stay at the end of last school year. Yes, we're up for it. Yes, we want to help, more than we can say. The question is, will he let us? Lord, help us.
So, when I think how silly I've been about meeting an aging, former TV star, I'm not embarrassed a bit. We all need silly, snuggly moments now and then to ease our tension and create a memory that will bring a smile to our lips as needed. It's therapeutic actually. Thanks, Dr. Estrada!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Dateline :: San Diego
TRAVEL LOG: Back from Comic Con International in San Diego! At first I thought I'd never get there. Typical travel woes -- flight delayed at takeoff so missed my connection (by hours) in Minneapolis ... almost missed my later connection there ... was paged over the intercom and had to run through the airport (good thing I was wearing tennis shoes and a sports bra) ... then when I finally got to my hotel in San Diego, half my clothes were wet and sticky (the old "contents may shift during flight" applied to my hairspray in my suitcase). Luckily all was forgotten when I saw the great view (pictured above) from the hotel.
SAY CHEESE (or is it CHIPs?): Yes, my teeny bopper fantasy came true! Can't you still hear my heart pounding? I met my dream boat.
I was so nervous waiting in line, that when I got up to the table, I couldn't stop myself. From talking, that is. I actually ended up telling Erik Estrada the whole poster story. I mean really, me speechless? Did you think that was going to happen? He posed for a picture with me (above) and then said, aw, c'mon, we can do better than that. So he put my arms around him. I did not protest. And we got the nice snuggling shot at right. Then he autographed a picture for me and I floated off to lunch. Even though I couldn't stop smiling, I did feel a wee bit guilty. I called up hubby and said, "I just cheated on you with Ponch." He said, "Good for you!" Though, I know he didn't mean that! He was just letting an old lady enjoy her silly moment. (Thanks, hon!)
STAR POWER: If you follow celebrity sightings at all, you may have heard that Paris Hilton was out at Comic Con on Thursday, the day before I got out there. I saw other stars but was not able to get decent photos.
While working our magazine booth, I saw the pre-teen that plays Zack on The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. (Carter knew what I was talking about and thought that was cool!)I saw Breckin Meyer posing with some fans (he's pictured second from left). I first remember him from the movie Clueless, but he has been in other movies and has a production company now with Seth Green and someone else.
I'm not a big Trekkie or anything but I saw and took blurry pictures (not allowed to use flash unfortunately so not worth posting) of two cast members from Star Trek: The Next Generation. Jonathan Frakes, who played Riker, is still quite handsome. Levar Burton, who played La Forge, was there, too. You non-Trekkies may remember him from the Roots mini-series from way, way, way back when. (Yes, I am dating myself here.)
I managed to catch up with the distinguished Ray Bradbury and snap his photo. The longtime SciFi author (Martian Chronicles, Fahrenheit 451, you name it) and inspiration will turn 88 next month. He still drew a crowd of respectful admirers. That was pretty cool.I also had dinner with the guy who writes the 24 comic strip, based on the action-packed television show starring Kiefer Sutherland. I learned the crew got to go to Africa to film a 2-hour movie to air in November as a prequel to the beginning of the next season. Cool! It was an entertaining dinner!
Kiefer was somewhere at the show (I mean con), but I missed him. I did get to see his co-star, Adoni Maropis, who played Fayed in last season's story line. I got his autograph and photo (yes, I even snuggle with fictional terrorists.)Probably a good thing I drew the line with the real stars and not all the wannabes in costumes. There were a ton of "Jokers" from the new Batman movie. Some Hellboys (yuck) and some Indiana Jones look-alikes (or trying to look alike). Then there was everything in between. Lots of characters I was clueless about. Some people I think just decided to color their hair or face or wear skimpy outfits. (I know what you guys are saying: Where are those photos? I felt too weird asking.) I may post a few of those but sleep -- in my own bed -- is a priority tonight.
Overall, I would say it was everything I expected (the geek factor) and more. I was surprised about the stars. It has really evolved into a Hollywood event (which many traditional comic book dealers have mixed feelings about). There certainly was a lot of energy and excitement everywhere. It was huge, almost overwhelming. So much going on. I for one, am looking forward to going again so I can see what I missed!!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Will I see MY "iron man"?
I am a bookworm at heart. Always, always had and have something I was reading or looking forward to reading. Stories that make me think or solve a riddle. Books that teach. Pages that offer me an escape or just plain entertain me.
The entertainment value of reading cannot be overrated when it comes to kids. If you can capture their interest in some way at an early stage, you may have a reader for life. That's where comic books come in.
As adults, we tend to think of them as picture books with light stories. True, I didn't learn a lot from Archie and Jughead or Uncle Scrooge the Duck, but it got me reading. These days, anyone who saw the new Batman movie over the weekend, will tell you comics can have some deep, dark, very adult story lines, too. That's why there are still millions of comic book readers of all ages out there. And this weekend, I expect to see at least 125,000 of those.
I'm flying out this morning to San Diego for the international comics convention, simply called Comic-Con. If you would have asked me a month ago if I was excited to go, I likely would have said something along the lines of, "Excited to go to Geek Fest? I don't think so. I'm just going because I have to for work." I've since changed my tune the more I've learned about the event.
It's not just about 40-year-old men living in their mother's basements with boxes (I think they call them "long boxes") filled with their super-hero stories. (Though I do expect to see some of that with the extreme collectors donning costumes.) The show has also become a key time for television networks and movie studios to unveil their next major project (last year Iron Man previews were huge) or offer up some of their stars for autograph sessions. It's a pop culture entertainment extravaganza!
OK, I confess that what got me excited was looking over the list of stars (past and present) doing autographs. Only a few people would understand my excitement when I saw Erik Estrada's name on the list (and the rest of you are probably groaning!). My first thought was that I wish I still had my poster of "Ponch" that hung on my bedroom wall as a teenager. But then I would have to explain to him why there is a hole where his flashy white smile should be. Darn lip gloss deteriorates paper, I learned, after many kisses good night! Now, I don't even know if I'll get the chance to see him, but if I do, I may just be speechless for the first time in my life (something everybody reading this blog would understand!).
So I'll be taking a few days off here but hope when I get back on Monday I'll have some exciting things to report! Now the question is, will I fit right in out there or finally be one of the "cool kids"? (No need to respond to that one! )
And sincerely, no offense intended to comic book buyers, readers or collectors. I am sure people say the same things about my scrapbooking cult! That's why hobbies are known as "passions."
Live long and prosper ... or something like that!
The entertainment value of reading cannot be overrated when it comes to kids. If you can capture their interest in some way at an early stage, you may have a reader for life. That's where comic books come in.
As adults, we tend to think of them as picture books with light stories. True, I didn't learn a lot from Archie and Jughead or Uncle Scrooge the Duck, but it got me reading. These days, anyone who saw the new Batman movie over the weekend, will tell you comics can have some deep, dark, very adult story lines, too. That's why there are still millions of comic book readers of all ages out there. And this weekend, I expect to see at least 125,000 of those.
I'm flying out this morning to San Diego for the international comics convention, simply called Comic-Con. If you would have asked me a month ago if I was excited to go, I likely would have said something along the lines of, "Excited to go to Geek Fest? I don't think so. I'm just going because I have to for work." I've since changed my tune the more I've learned about the event.
It's not just about 40-year-old men living in their mother's basements with boxes (I think they call them "long boxes") filled with their super-hero stories. (Though I do expect to see some of that with the extreme collectors donning costumes.) The show has also become a key time for television networks and movie studios to unveil their next major project (last year Iron Man previews were huge) or offer up some of their stars for autograph sessions. It's a pop culture entertainment extravaganza!
OK, I confess that what got me excited was looking over the list of stars (past and present) doing autographs. Only a few people would understand my excitement when I saw Erik Estrada's name on the list (and the rest of you are probably groaning!). My first thought was that I wish I still had my poster of "Ponch" that hung on my bedroom wall as a teenager. But then I would have to explain to him why there is a hole where his flashy white smile should be. Darn lip gloss deteriorates paper, I learned, after many kisses good night! Now, I don't even know if I'll get the chance to see him, but if I do, I may just be speechless for the first time in my life (something everybody reading this blog would understand!).
So I'll be taking a few days off here but hope when I get back on Monday I'll have some exciting things to report! Now the question is, will I fit right in out there or finally be one of the "cool kids"? (No need to respond to that one! )
And sincerely, no offense intended to comic book buyers, readers or collectors. I am sure people say the same things about my scrapbooking cult! That's why hobbies are known as "passions."
Live long and prosper ... or something like that!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Ready to Rumble?
After years of playing Madden Football on his video-game system, Carter is ready for the real thing. The real rough-and-tough world of tackle football.
Wearing his purple Adrian Peterson "Rookie of the Year" t-shirt, Carter was fitted for his new gear last night and is now an official member of the Rapids Raptors football team. His number? 28, of course! Though I think it will be awhile before he earns the nickname "All Day Austin." (If you don't follow the Vikes, or NFL football in general, I realize this is over your head. Sorry.)
Carter was most nervous about his doctor's physical -- after hearing horror stories from other boys. But his went fine. Apparently it wasn't as thorough as he/we expected. That explained the smile of relief on his face when it was over!
So now it's down to 12 days until the first practice. That conditioning plan fell by the wayside immediately but I think he's a bit more determined to resume it now that he sees his helmet, jersey and pads laying in the corner of his room.
This is going to be interesting. I'm guessing this will be my biggest test (to date, that is) as a mother to remain calm, cool and collected. Not think about those big 6th-graders running over my little 5th-grader! Yup. I think I can feel the butterflies already!
Wearing his purple Adrian Peterson "Rookie of the Year" t-shirt, Carter was fitted for his new gear last night and is now an official member of the Rapids Raptors football team. His number? 28, of course! Though I think it will be awhile before he earns the nickname "All Day Austin." (If you don't follow the Vikes, or NFL football in general, I realize this is over your head. Sorry.)
Carter was most nervous about his doctor's physical -- after hearing horror stories from other boys. But his went fine. Apparently it wasn't as thorough as he/we expected. That explained the smile of relief on his face when it was over!
So now it's down to 12 days until the first practice. That conditioning plan fell by the wayside immediately but I think he's a bit more determined to resume it now that he sees his helmet, jersey and pads laying in the corner of his room.
This is going to be interesting. I'm guessing this will be my biggest test (to date, that is) as a mother to remain calm, cool and collected. Not think about those big 6th-graders running over my little 5th-grader! Yup. I think I can feel the butterflies already!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Hello, Dolly
I kept a close eye on the weather today -- not what was happening in Wisconsin, but down in Texas, where Hurricane Dolly had her eyes (or do we just say eye) set on hitting South Padre Island and southern Texas -- close to where my sister and brother-in-law live.
It's weird, but most places hurricanes have struck and done damage are places I've never seen before the storm -- only afterward (like visiting Punta Gorda, Fla., after Hurricane Charlie). But tonight on the news, I saw what happened on South Padre (where we spent part of Spring Break this year) and the streets of Harlingen (where we flew in). That's freaky when you've been there.
I talked to my sister tonight. They live 60 miles or so inland (you may have seen McAllen on the news). So far they have been spared flooding or damage. The power flickered out but, thankfully, came back on right away. Could you imagine a day or two in the Texas heat without air conditioning? That would be brutal! And some of the unfortunate souls closer to the coast are dealing with just that.
Is it done? Probably not. I think Dolly will be rotating in more rain tomorrow but they are hoping it won't be too much.
This is actually the third hurricane my sister has been through. They've followed her to New Orleans (long before Katrina) and Atlanta and now Texas. She's a survivor so I'm not too worried. I'm more worried about my retired brother-in-law who is missing two days of pool time! (Poor St. Paul and his sacrifices.)
If you are inclined to put your hands together tonight, please pray for their safety and those around them. I'm sure they'll return the favor during our blizzard season!
It's weird, but most places hurricanes have struck and done damage are places I've never seen before the storm -- only afterward (like visiting Punta Gorda, Fla., after Hurricane Charlie). But tonight on the news, I saw what happened on South Padre (where we spent part of Spring Break this year) and the streets of Harlingen (where we flew in). That's freaky when you've been there.
I talked to my sister tonight. They live 60 miles or so inland (you may have seen McAllen on the news). So far they have been spared flooding or damage. The power flickered out but, thankfully, came back on right away. Could you imagine a day or two in the Texas heat without air conditioning? That would be brutal! And some of the unfortunate souls closer to the coast are dealing with just that.
Is it done? Probably not. I think Dolly will be rotating in more rain tomorrow but they are hoping it won't be too much.
This is actually the third hurricane my sister has been through. They've followed her to New Orleans (long before Katrina) and Atlanta and now Texas. She's a survivor so I'm not too worried. I'm more worried about my retired brother-in-law who is missing two days of pool time! (Poor St. Paul and his sacrifices.)
If you are inclined to put your hands together tonight, please pray for their safety and those around them. I'm sure they'll return the favor during our blizzard season!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Round One
We took Carter golfing after work today at that Glen Cairn course outside Iola that hubby and I experienced two weeks ago. This was Carter's first round of "real" golf. We're not counting the Texas course since that was all par 3 and Carter didn't finish it anyway.
So the challenge tonight was to NOT tell Carter what to do. Every time I tried, Jim rightfully chimed in with, "Just do what they taught you in lessons, Carter." Wise advice. I am in no position to be coaching anyone!
Since it was ladies' night at the course, we had to play the front 9, which has 3 par 5's -- not our preference, that's for sure. It also had 3 par 3's and Carter and I are both big fans of those. Remember Carter is a lefty swinger -- so his drives would often shank off to an immediate left. Lost a few in the woods, but found a few so we came out even as far as that goes.
As for scores, I am back out of the 40s (I knew it was too good to last) and logged a 54. Carter doubled that with a 108 but we told him not to get discouraged. We all have to have a starting point or we have nothing to compare it to. So we told him we'd keep track of his scores from here on out and he is bound to see them improving.
It's just like life, right? When we think things aren't going well or we're not doing a good job, we only have to look a few years back and see how far we've come. I for one am sometimes floored by the progress.
I hope I reach that point with my golf game some day, too, but in the grand scheme of things, it's not that important (says the who is bruised from beating herself up over bad shots).
So the challenge tonight was to NOT tell Carter what to do. Every time I tried, Jim rightfully chimed in with, "Just do what they taught you in lessons, Carter." Wise advice. I am in no position to be coaching anyone!
Since it was ladies' night at the course, we had to play the front 9, which has 3 par 5's -- not our preference, that's for sure. It also had 3 par 3's and Carter and I are both big fans of those. Remember Carter is a lefty swinger -- so his drives would often shank off to an immediate left. Lost a few in the woods, but found a few so we came out even as far as that goes.
As for scores, I am back out of the 40s (I knew it was too good to last) and logged a 54. Carter doubled that with a 108 but we told him not to get discouraged. We all have to have a starting point or we have nothing to compare it to. So we told him we'd keep track of his scores from here on out and he is bound to see them improving.
It's just like life, right? When we think things aren't going well or we're not doing a good job, we only have to look a few years back and see how far we've come. I for one am sometimes floored by the progress.
I hope I reach that point with my golf game some day, too, but in the grand scheme of things, it's not that important (says the who is bruised from beating herself up over bad shots).
Monday, July 21, 2008
Scenic Route
A few images from Jim's "Roots Roadtrip" out East.
Funny how the people out East say Wisconsin is beautiful, but we don't have anything like this! Jim enjoyed many views of the Adirondak Mountains while driving around upstate New York and Vermont.
... Of course, they don't have a lot of deer out there, either.
There's just something about covered bridges that make me think of Clint Eastwood... I mean think of the old times.
But this is better than ol' Clint any day. Those who know me and my love for lighthouses and water know that this is why I wish I was there! Sigh... Maybe next time...
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Sunday Snippets
Two Thumbs Up: Thanks to some wicked weather, we spent last evening indoors -- after lightning chased us from a neighborhood campfire. So Jim and I watched the movie Vantage Point, which I'd rented "just in case" it rained. I realize everyone is talking about Batman this weekend, but we'd wanted to see Vantage Point since we saw the previews for it in the theater. Like most movies, though, we end up seeing them on DVD. Good movie! We both recommend it. Plenty of action and an interesting plot. It's kind of cool how the story is played out. I won't reveal any more than that, but we give it two thumbs up.
Jumping the Shark: It's been interesting to see an older golfer, Greg Norman, come out of nowhere to contend for the British Open title this weekend. The Shark couldn't quite cut it in the nasty winds over the pond. If you watched any of it, you'd know what I mean. Carter asked why we were cheering him on. We just said it'd be cool for someone twice as old as some of the finalists to come back and win it. I then showed Carter pictures of his yacht (just Google Greg Norman's Yacht if you haven't seen it before). I said if he didn't win the Open, he'd still have the yacht (and his new bride, Chris Everett). His life is almost as good as Jimmy Austin's.
Conditioning: With the start of football just two weeks away, Carter has decided he better get in cardio shape. Yes, this is the year he is playing for the Rapids Raptors -- with real helmets, pads and tackling! Once August is here, he'll be practicing 4 nights a week for two hours. A lot of that will be conditioning. If Carter can survive that, then he just has to worry about being run down by other players. So to start his program, we went running this morning. We did interval training, running a half-mile then walking a half-mile then running a half-mile. You get the picture. We'll see how he feels in the morning. Not to mention old Mom here who has been reading her Runners magazine, but not acting any of it out. I might end up being more of a conditioning coach than partner!
Jumping the Shark: It's been interesting to see an older golfer, Greg Norman, come out of nowhere to contend for the British Open title this weekend. The Shark couldn't quite cut it in the nasty winds over the pond. If you watched any of it, you'd know what I mean. Carter asked why we were cheering him on. We just said it'd be cool for someone twice as old as some of the finalists to come back and win it. I then showed Carter pictures of his yacht (just Google Greg Norman's Yacht if you haven't seen it before). I said if he didn't win the Open, he'd still have the yacht (and his new bride, Chris Everett). His life is almost as good as Jimmy Austin's.
Conditioning: With the start of football just two weeks away, Carter has decided he better get in cardio shape. Yes, this is the year he is playing for the Rapids Raptors -- with real helmets, pads and tackling! Once August is here, he'll be practicing 4 nights a week for two hours. A lot of that will be conditioning. If Carter can survive that, then he just has to worry about being run down by other players. So to start his program, we went running this morning. We did interval training, running a half-mile then walking a half-mile then running a half-mile. You get the picture. We'll see how he feels in the morning. Not to mention old Mom here who has been reading her Runners magazine, but not acting any of it out. I might end up being more of a conditioning coach than partner!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Project Procrastination
Hubby made it home safely from his trip yesterday. So today he got to run around doing the errands I meant to get to while he was gone, but didn't find the time -- like run to the bank, get oil changed and drop off recycling.
I honestly wasn't trying not to do it. The week just got away from me. What I did tackle this morning is one project I have meant to get to all summer: Weeding the rock garden and trimming the thorny crap growing around the front deck.
I think I've said it before. I have a black thumb. No interest in maintaining a garden or landscaping. I like how it looks, but find no enjoyment in getting it there. So I let things go. Until really, it's embarrassing and I have to do something about it.
Despite my aching back and the bloody scratches on my legs, I'm glad I got it done. Yes, I know summer is in its final trimester. But better late than never. As for the other areas woefully needing the attention of a green thumb, I don't know when I'll get to those. Maybe tomorrow.
But tomorrow never comes, does it?
I honestly wasn't trying not to do it. The week just got away from me. What I did tackle this morning is one project I have meant to get to all summer: Weeding the rock garden and trimming the thorny crap growing around the front deck.
I think I've said it before. I have a black thumb. No interest in maintaining a garden or landscaping. I like how it looks, but find no enjoyment in getting it there. So I let things go. Until really, it's embarrassing and I have to do something about it.
Despite my aching back and the bloody scratches on my legs, I'm glad I got it done. Yes, I know summer is in its final trimester. But better late than never. As for the other areas woefully needing the attention of a green thumb, I don't know when I'll get to those. Maybe tomorrow.
But tomorrow never comes, does it?
Friday, July 18, 2008
Deflated at 40?
I read somewhere once -- in one of those "facts of life" type emails -- that there comes an age when one should quit making a big deal about birthdays, and that age is 8.
What a load of poo-poo! I plan to make a big deal of my birthday forever. In fact, up until today, I still had my decorations hanging over my desk at work. I had to laugh when I saw those sagging balloons, though. How appropriate for a 40-year-old!
Someone else is celebrating their birthday today at work, so I am passing on the balloons and best wishes. Does this mean the celebration is over? Heck no. If someone asks my age in the next several months, I still plan to say, "Oh, I just turned 40!"
I do have to accept, though, that the saggy balloons are just the beginning.
What a load of poo-poo! I plan to make a big deal of my birthday forever. In fact, up until today, I still had my decorations hanging over my desk at work. I had to laugh when I saw those sagging balloons, though. How appropriate for a 40-year-old!
Someone else is celebrating their birthday today at work, so I am passing on the balloons and best wishes. Does this mean the celebration is over? Heck no. If someone asks my age in the next several months, I still plan to say, "Oh, I just turned 40!"
I do have to accept, though, that the saggy balloons are just the beginning.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Last Call
Just about everybody's got a favorite neighborhood watering hole. A friendly meeting place. A not so smoke-free environment to grab a cold beer and a good burger now and then. For a lot of people in Wisconsin Rapids, that place was Buzz's Bar & Grill. Just around the corner from the newspaper office where hubby and I sacrificed years of our lives.
Today marked the last day of business for the old saloon, which hasn't necessarily been there since the beginning of time -- but at least since the beginning of my time in the Rapids area. The bar was purchased recently by a papermill mogul who wants to expand his cultural center located next door. (Apparently shaking dice doesn't qualify as "culture" in his eyes.)
Buzz himself is long gone but his son has been running the joint since I came to town back in '95. "Legs" is an avid Badger and Packer fan, which I forgive him for, and, of all things, a Yankees fan. Just haven't been able to stomach that one. But he's so darn charming I've been willing to look past it.
Back in the day -- this is where we say "pre-Carter" -- Jim regularly met his former sports boss and the guys from the Armory around noontime to shake dice and talk stupid. Occasionally I'd stop in a observe but they didn't want any ladies in their circle of manliness. I did enjoy some good lunches there, though, and occasionally something from the tap. Over the years, we've treated treat our boys to cheese curds, burgers and fries once in awhile, too.
As news of the pending "last call" circulated in the last several weeks, regular patrons and those of use who just dropped in for a Buzz's Burger now and then made an effort to soak in the atmosphere and company one last time.
Last week, Jim was able to meet up with his buddies for old time's sake before he headed out of town. Tonight on the way home, I asked Carter if he wanted to stop by Buzz's for supper. "Yes! We have to go there one more time!" he said. So we stopped.
Just like in Cheers, I walked in and somebody hailed me by name. (Just some fellow fans from the race track. I honestly haven't been there in ages.) Unbeknownst to us, the grill was shut down two nights ago so we didn't get supper. The only two things left on tap were Budweiser and Point Brewery Root Beer. So Carter and I each savored a frosty mug of root beer and toasted Buzz's.
I said to my son, "You know, if there hadn't been a Buzz's, there wouldn't be a Carter." Someday he'll understand.
Cheers.
To Buzz's.
Today marked the last day of business for the old saloon, which hasn't necessarily been there since the beginning of time -- but at least since the beginning of my time in the Rapids area. The bar was purchased recently by a papermill mogul who wants to expand his cultural center located next door. (Apparently shaking dice doesn't qualify as "culture" in his eyes.)
Buzz himself is long gone but his son has been running the joint since I came to town back in '95. "Legs" is an avid Badger and Packer fan, which I forgive him for, and, of all things, a Yankees fan. Just haven't been able to stomach that one. But he's so darn charming I've been willing to look past it.
Back in the day -- this is where we say "pre-Carter" -- Jim regularly met his former sports boss and the guys from the Armory around noontime to shake dice and talk stupid. Occasionally I'd stop in a observe but they didn't want any ladies in their circle of manliness. I did enjoy some good lunches there, though, and occasionally something from the tap. Over the years, we've treated treat our boys to cheese curds, burgers and fries once in awhile, too.
As news of the pending "last call" circulated in the last several weeks, regular patrons and those of use who just dropped in for a Buzz's Burger now and then made an effort to soak in the atmosphere and company one last time.
Last week, Jim was able to meet up with his buddies for old time's sake before he headed out of town. Tonight on the way home, I asked Carter if he wanted to stop by Buzz's for supper. "Yes! We have to go there one more time!" he said. So we stopped.
Just like in Cheers, I walked in and somebody hailed me by name. (Just some fellow fans from the race track. I honestly haven't been there in ages.) Unbeknownst to us, the grill was shut down two nights ago so we didn't get supper. The only two things left on tap were Budweiser and Point Brewery Root Beer. So Carter and I each savored a frosty mug of root beer and toasted Buzz's.
I said to my son, "You know, if there hadn't been a Buzz's, there wouldn't be a Carter." Someday he'll understand.
Cheers.
To Buzz's.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Night Owls
It's not like we're partying or getting wild & crazy while Daddy's out of town, but Carter and I just seem to have one late night after another.
On Tuesday, I had a meeting for work in the late afternoon and evening in Oshkosh. So I had my friend Jana keep an eye on Carter for me. Greatly appreciated. Didn't get back to her house in Scandinavia until 8:45 p.m. and therefore not home until after 9:30. Good thing we didn't stay up to watch the longest All-Star Game on record! (Justin Morneau was my hero two days in a row!)
So we were tired this morning and had to scramble to get the garbage out, stop and get gas and a milk for Carter's lunch on the way to work. Also got our Powerball tickets set. We won $7 in last week's drawing! I guess today is either our lucky day or it all goes downhill from there.
Carter and I decided we hope it's a lucky day for Jim. He is having an enjoyable trip out East but has not found any more pieces to his family tree puzzle. Now he's down to 2 days left. We'll keep our fingers crossed!
Tonight Carter and I have yet another "engagement." We're going to my friend Becky's house for dinner and then to talk Sunday School curriculum. I think we'll just have to cut the meeting short at 8:30 whether we're done or not. Carter just needs a good night's sleep.
I suppose it wouldn't hurt if I did as well ... I say while sipping on my energy drink! Ahh, it's tough getting old. I can see the beauty in this "slowing down" thing much more than being a night owl!
On Tuesday, I had a meeting for work in the late afternoon and evening in Oshkosh. So I had my friend Jana keep an eye on Carter for me. Greatly appreciated. Didn't get back to her house in Scandinavia until 8:45 p.m. and therefore not home until after 9:30. Good thing we didn't stay up to watch the longest All-Star Game on record! (Justin Morneau was my hero two days in a row!)
So we were tired this morning and had to scramble to get the garbage out, stop and get gas and a milk for Carter's lunch on the way to work. Also got our Powerball tickets set. We won $7 in last week's drawing! I guess today is either our lucky day or it all goes downhill from there.
Carter and I decided we hope it's a lucky day for Jim. He is having an enjoyable trip out East but has not found any more pieces to his family tree puzzle. Now he's down to 2 days left. We'll keep our fingers crossed!
Tonight Carter and I have yet another "engagement." We're going to my friend Becky's house for dinner and then to talk Sunday School curriculum. I think we'll just have to cut the meeting short at 8:30 whether we're done or not. Carter just needs a good night's sleep.
I suppose it wouldn't hurt if I did as well ... I say while sipping on my energy drink! Ahh, it's tough getting old. I can see the beauty in this "slowing down" thing much more than being a night owl!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Circle of Friends
I really like this email I got! So true about our circle of friends!
When I was little,
I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
And then I started to become a woman.
And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up,
God would show you the best in many friends.
One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom.
Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities.
Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.
One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,'
Another, 'Let's fight together,' Another, 'Let's walk away together.'
One friend will meet your spiritual need,
Another your shoe fetish,
Another your love for movies,
Another will be with you in your season of confusion,
Another will be your clarifier, Another the wind beneath your wings.
But whatever their assignment in your life,
On whatever the occasion,
On whatever the day,
Or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself ...
Those are your best friends.
It may all be wrapped up in one woman, But for many, it's wrapped up in several...
One from 7th grade,
One from high school,
Several from the college years,
a couple from old jobs,
On some days your mother,
On some days your neighbor,
On others, your sisters,
And on some days, your daughters.
So whether they've been your friend for 20 minutes or 20 years, let the women that God has placed in your life know they make a difference. Thanks, my friends!
When I was little,
I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
And then I started to become a woman.
And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up,
God would show you the best in many friends.
One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom.
Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities.
Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.
One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,'
Another, 'Let's fight together,' Another, 'Let's walk away together.'
One friend will meet your spiritual need,
Another your shoe fetish,
Another your love for movies,
Another will be with you in your season of confusion,
Another will be your clarifier, Another the wind beneath your wings.
But whatever their assignment in your life,
On whatever the occasion,
On whatever the day,
Or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself ...
Those are your best friends.
It may all be wrapped up in one woman, But for many, it's wrapped up in several...
One from 7th grade,
One from high school,
Several from the college years,
a couple from old jobs,
On some days your mother,
On some days your neighbor,
On others, your sisters,
And on some days, your daughters.
So whether they've been your friend for 20 minutes or 20 years, let the women that God has placed in your life know they make a difference. Thanks, my friends!
Monday, July 14, 2008
How Bizzaro
I sort of feel like I am in my own Bizzaro World -- the comic strip where everything is opposite. (And I'm not talking about the current Brett Favre on-again, off-again retirement saga either. Though that would qualify.) Bizzaro World illustrates my opposite Sunday and Monday (except for the part where I was very busy both days).
On Sunday, I pretty much was standing all day -- with little chance for escape -- and today, I was seated at my desk most of the day -- with little chance for escape. Both days ended with America's favorite pastime.
On Sunday, we had a special Sunday School cleanup day planned. Optimistically, we had hoped our grand reorganization of supplies, etc., could be done in a few hours. It took more like 5 or 6. I'll give Carter credit here for behaving very well and even helping a bit. After we felt we accomplished enough there, I stopped at my store and did some grocery shopping. Then headed home to cut the front the lawn. Somewhere in that process, I ran out of gas, realized our gas can was empty, too, so had to run to the gas station.
About 6:45 p.m. I realized I hadn't sat down since breakfast, except to drive. Not good. I told Carter, "Let's find something good on TV and just sit for the evening." We saw that the movie Eight Men Out was on, so watched that. Carter was curious about the back story on this when we watched Field of Dreams not that long ago.
The history on this is still a bit complicated for a 10-year-old but he had a good grasp of it. So much so, he now understands why Daddy's favorite ballplayer, Pete Rose, will not make it into the Hall of Fame. He was seriously bummed about that -- probably mostly on Daddy's behalf.
Today was just one of those crazy Monday's at work, unexpectedly filling in for someone who was gone, so just steady busy. I did get out for a 10-minute walk mid-morning, but that was my only real escape besides bathroom breaks. As it turns it out, I had to bring some work home but I am going to do what I can during commercial breaks. Carter and I have a date to watch the All-Star Home Run Derby. Go Justin Morneau!
On Sunday, I pretty much was standing all day -- with little chance for escape -- and today, I was seated at my desk most of the day -- with little chance for escape. Both days ended with America's favorite pastime.
On Sunday, we had a special Sunday School cleanup day planned. Optimistically, we had hoped our grand reorganization of supplies, etc., could be done in a few hours. It took more like 5 or 6. I'll give Carter credit here for behaving very well and even helping a bit. After we felt we accomplished enough there, I stopped at my store and did some grocery shopping. Then headed home to cut the front the lawn. Somewhere in that process, I ran out of gas, realized our gas can was empty, too, so had to run to the gas station.
About 6:45 p.m. I realized I hadn't sat down since breakfast, except to drive. Not good. I told Carter, "Let's find something good on TV and just sit for the evening." We saw that the movie Eight Men Out was on, so watched that. Carter was curious about the back story on this when we watched Field of Dreams not that long ago.
The history on this is still a bit complicated for a 10-year-old but he had a good grasp of it. So much so, he now understands why Daddy's favorite ballplayer, Pete Rose, will not make it into the Hall of Fame. He was seriously bummed about that -- probably mostly on Daddy's behalf.
Today was just one of those crazy Monday's at work, unexpectedly filling in for someone who was gone, so just steady busy. I did get out for a 10-minute walk mid-morning, but that was my only real escape besides bathroom breaks. As it turns it out, I had to bring some work home but I am going to do what I can during commercial breaks. Carter and I have a date to watch the All-Star Home Run Derby. Go Justin Morneau!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Lakeside Lounging
Carter and I are pretty tired tonight after a day outdoors. We spent the afternoon and evening with some friends at their cottage on a lake about 45 miles northeast of here.
The weather wasn't anything like the hot, sticky stuff we had yesterday. Instead it was very windy (beyond breezy) and cool by mid-summer standards (70s). I actually had a sweatshirt on most of the day but after the sunburn I got the last two days at the car show, I didn't mind.
For inside entertainment, we learned a new dice game I'll have to teach my family. For outside fun, we played Ladder Ball, also called Lasso Golf and Bongo Ball (depending on the manufacturer). We had a bit of a tournament going on. My friend Becky and I were the Red Hot Mamas. We beat the boys (I should say defeated) -- Carter and her son Nickolaus, then went down in a rubber match with the "big" boys -- her husband her dad. Bummer. Not that I care. I'm not competitive or anything!
The little boys didn't mind the wind. They actually went swimming three times and had some major fun on an inflatable teeter-totter. Hilarious to watch them try to do that. I should have brought the video camera! Oh well. I am sure there'll be a next time.
Talked to hubby tonight and he didn't solve any mysteries today out East but may have a lead on something for tomorrow. So he's tucked in for the night and I will be doing the same shortly. As we say in the Midwest when it dips into the 50s in the summertime, it's good sleeping weather. And I intend to take advantage of it!
The weather wasn't anything like the hot, sticky stuff we had yesterday. Instead it was very windy (beyond breezy) and cool by mid-summer standards (70s). I actually had a sweatshirt on most of the day but after the sunburn I got the last two days at the car show, I didn't mind.
For inside entertainment, we learned a new dice game I'll have to teach my family. For outside fun, we played Ladder Ball, also called Lasso Golf and Bongo Ball (depending on the manufacturer). We had a bit of a tournament going on. My friend Becky and I were the Red Hot Mamas. We beat the boys (I should say defeated) -- Carter and her son Nickolaus, then went down in a rubber match with the "big" boys -- her husband her dad. Bummer. Not that I care. I'm not competitive or anything!
The little boys didn't mind the wind. They actually went swimming three times and had some major fun on an inflatable teeter-totter. Hilarious to watch them try to do that. I should have brought the video camera! Oh well. I am sure there'll be a next time.
Talked to hubby tonight and he didn't solve any mysteries today out East but may have a lead on something for tomorrow. So he's tucked in for the night and I will be doing the same shortly. As we say in the Midwest when it dips into the 50s in the summertime, it's good sleeping weather. And I intend to take advantage of it!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Jimmy's Excellent Adventure
Do you remember a comedy/science fiction movie from the late '80s called Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure? In the movie, two unmotivated students manage to travel through time to assemble a select group of historical figures for their high school history presentation. Today, my hubby's excellent adventure began.
As I've mentioned previously, Jim and I are both genealogists. I won't say "active genealogists" because we go in streaks. We'll work hard at it awhile then set it aside, sometimes for many months at a time. This year has been an active one for Jim -- especially after he decided this is the year he is going out East to solve one of his family mysteries.
Not to go into too many details, but Jim's great-great-grandfather on his dad's side was married 4 times (some women weren't cut out for the wild frontier, I guess). The mysterious piece of the puzzle is the third wife. Who was she? Jim is pretty sure the answer lies somewhere in northern Vermont and New York. So that's where he is for the next week, all by himself, just a few miles from the Canadian border, having his own excellent family tree adventure, eh?
I hope it proves to be productive but if nothing else, at least he can enjoy the scenery. He flew into Burlington, Vermont, took a ferry over Lake Champlain with the Adirondak Mountains serving as the backdrop in scenery, then landed over in Plattsburgh, N.Y., where he'll stay in a hotel all week.
He said it is just gorgeous out there. And how do I know this? I forced my anti-cell phone husband into this century by buying him a prepaid cell phone for the trip. I pretty much got the simplest model I could find and set it up for him to call my cell or our home number. He is easing into this technology at a pretty alarming rate. I got no less than 5 calls from him today!
I guess it's the next best thing to being there. But I'd sure love to see those mountains.
As I've mentioned previously, Jim and I are both genealogists. I won't say "active genealogists" because we go in streaks. We'll work hard at it awhile then set it aside, sometimes for many months at a time. This year has been an active one for Jim -- especially after he decided this is the year he is going out East to solve one of his family mysteries.
Not to go into too many details, but Jim's great-great-grandfather on his dad's side was married 4 times (some women weren't cut out for the wild frontier, I guess). The mysterious piece of the puzzle is the third wife. Who was she? Jim is pretty sure the answer lies somewhere in northern Vermont and New York. So that's where he is for the next week, all by himself, just a few miles from the Canadian border, having his own excellent family tree adventure, eh?
I hope it proves to be productive but if nothing else, at least he can enjoy the scenery. He flew into Burlington, Vermont, took a ferry over Lake Champlain with the Adirondak Mountains serving as the backdrop in scenery, then landed over in Plattsburgh, N.Y., where he'll stay in a hotel all week.
He said it is just gorgeous out there. And how do I know this? I forced my anti-cell phone husband into this century by buying him a prepaid cell phone for the trip. I pretty much got the simplest model I could find and set it up for him to call my cell or our home number. He is easing into this technology at a pretty alarming rate. I got no less than 5 calls from him today!
I guess it's the next best thing to being there. But I'd sure love to see those mountains.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
There goes the neighborhood
We've had the strangest news story unfold around here over the past several days. If it wasn't actually happening, I'd think I was watching CSI-Wisconsin Rapids. Seriously. It is that bizarre.
It started out Saturday when a family reported their 23-year-old son never made it home after the fireworks the night before. He had been drinking so they didn't know if he became disoriented and passed out in the woods somewhere or, worse, the Wisconsin River. Hundreds of volunteers joined emergency personnel in the searching for 3 days. To no avail. The search was called off Tuesday morning. But things really changed later that day.
They changed when a different man, a 21-year-old reported missing earlier Tuesday, showed up on someone's porch -- naked, bloodied and bound in chains -- and told them to call the police.
The police say a 46-year-old man posed as a police officer, handcuffed and kidnapped both of these young men, stripped, beat and assaulted them while he had them chained in his basement and garage. Allegedly. Since I no longer work for the newspaper, I am free to pass judgment and say, "what a sicko!"
This is sad, really. The victims, who are the ages of some of my nephews, have some serious trauma to deal with. And the community, well, even though a lot of crap goes on behind closed doors that we don't hear about, the community is in shock that something like this could happen in our safe little town. There's a major freakout factor and some paranoia, naturally. How safe are we?
It only scares me because, as a parent, once again I am faced with the cold, hard truth that we can't always be there to protect our children. All we can do is pray God takes over in that department when they are more than arm's length away. I believe He will. In the meantime, I'll hug the stuffing out of Carter when I've got him. I don't care how embarrassed it makes him.
By the way, you can read the stories at the Daily Tribune Web site.
It started out Saturday when a family reported their 23-year-old son never made it home after the fireworks the night before. He had been drinking so they didn't know if he became disoriented and passed out in the woods somewhere or, worse, the Wisconsin River. Hundreds of volunteers joined emergency personnel in the searching for 3 days. To no avail. The search was called off Tuesday morning. But things really changed later that day.
They changed when a different man, a 21-year-old reported missing earlier Tuesday, showed up on someone's porch -- naked, bloodied and bound in chains -- and told them to call the police.
The police say a 46-year-old man posed as a police officer, handcuffed and kidnapped both of these young men, stripped, beat and assaulted them while he had them chained in his basement and garage. Allegedly. Since I no longer work for the newspaper, I am free to pass judgment and say, "what a sicko!"
This is sad, really. The victims, who are the ages of some of my nephews, have some serious trauma to deal with. And the community, well, even though a lot of crap goes on behind closed doors that we don't hear about, the community is in shock that something like this could happen in our safe little town. There's a major freakout factor and some paranoia, naturally. How safe are we?
It only scares me because, as a parent, once again I am faced with the cold, hard truth that we can't always be there to protect our children. All we can do is pray God takes over in that department when they are more than arm's length away. I believe He will. In the meantime, I'll hug the stuffing out of Carter when I've got him. I don't care how embarrassed it makes him.
By the way, you can read the stories at the Daily Tribune Web site.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Get your motor running...
You'd think employing world-famous blogger Robyn Austin would be the claim to fame for little Iola, Wisconsin. But, alas, that is not the case.
This weekend, upwards of 150,000 people will converge on this tiny village to drool over chrome, inhale the sweet smell of exhaust and hug new found hubcaps. Yup. It's time for the 36th annual Iola Old Car Show. As always, our prime auto mag, Old Cars Weekly, has some exciting (and exclusive) coverage plans for the event, which takes place on the grounds surrounding our publishing house.
This year's theme tent will feature "roadsters, ragtops and rumble seats." For the blue-bloods, of course, there is always the Blue Ribbon display, a showcase of the best unrestored vehicles one can find on this planet. For those with a little rust running through their veins, there's acres and acres of swap meet vendors (heaven for garage-sale junkies, too!). For people like me who like looking at pretty things, there's Johnny Depp.
No kidding. There will be a special display of cars used in the recent filming of the "Public Enemies" movie, something all of Wisconsin was excited about. I am told by Old Cars editor Angelo Van Bogart that the display will feature such screen stars as a 1933 Nash sedan, 1935 Plymouth coupe and Model A truck. What? The cars are the screen stars? No Johnny Depp?! Sigh...
If you want to see what you're missing -- who knows, maybe Johnny will drop by -- you just have to check out the LIVE streaming video web cams. Just click on the camera links found here. It's a great way to kill time in the comfort of your air-conditioning this weekend. And seriously, the people-watching aspect cannot by overrated.
I can tell you, though, it is definitely worth the trip if you can make it. Click on the Old Cars Weekly Web site for a schedule of events and continuous coverage -- which hopefully includes an interview with a dark-haired celebrity. (Yes, OK, I have to get over it. Where's the funnel cake stand?)
This weekend, upwards of 150,000 people will converge on this tiny village to drool over chrome, inhale the sweet smell of exhaust and hug new found hubcaps. Yup. It's time for the 36th annual Iola Old Car Show. As always, our prime auto mag, Old Cars Weekly, has some exciting (and exclusive) coverage plans for the event, which takes place on the grounds surrounding our publishing house.
This year's theme tent will feature "roadsters, ragtops and rumble seats." For the blue-bloods, of course, there is always the Blue Ribbon display, a showcase of the best unrestored vehicles one can find on this planet. For those with a little rust running through their veins, there's acres and acres of swap meet vendors (heaven for garage-sale junkies, too!). For people like me who like looking at pretty things, there's Johnny Depp.
No kidding. There will be a special display of cars used in the recent filming of the "Public Enemies" movie, something all of Wisconsin was excited about. I am told by Old Cars editor Angelo Van Bogart that the display will feature such screen stars as a 1933 Nash sedan, 1935 Plymouth coupe and Model A truck. What? The cars are the screen stars? No Johnny Depp?! Sigh...
If you want to see what you're missing -- who knows, maybe Johnny will drop by -- you just have to check out the LIVE streaming video web cams. Just click on the camera links found here. It's a great way to kill time in the comfort of your air-conditioning this weekend. And seriously, the people-watching aspect cannot by overrated.
I can tell you, though, it is definitely worth the trip if you can make it. Click on the Old Cars Weekly Web site for a schedule of events and continuous coverage -- which hopefully includes an interview with a dark-haired celebrity. (Yes, OK, I have to get over it. Where's the funnel cake stand?)
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
POWER surge
All of Carter's belongings didn't make it home with him after his vacation Up North. He forgot a treasure bag with his flea-market hard hat, his chocolate Skittles and some new flavors of Dots candy.
He left them at my brother's house and I told him he didn't have to send them back. Carter has lived his life so far without them and can manage without them. But thanks to my kind-hearted bro, they're on their way to our house as we speak via the brown truck.
I realize I should be taking my own advice. If I've got things in my house I haven't used -- let alone seen -- in a good chunk of time, then obviously I can live without them. Obviously, I should get rid of them.
Remember how my "back to basics" approach helped my golf game a few days ago? I need to try that with my life. Back in January, I resolved this would be my year of POWER -- with the P standing for Purging (getting rid of the excess, the junk, the clutter).
It's always good at mid-year, both personally and professionally, to gauge your progress on goals established at the beginning of the year. Have I gotten anywhere? Do I still want to go in this direction? Should I add any new objectives?
It's just like getting a fresh start or, what we say in my world, a Mulligan!
He left them at my brother's house and I told him he didn't have to send them back. Carter has lived his life so far without them and can manage without them. But thanks to my kind-hearted bro, they're on their way to our house as we speak via the brown truck.
I realize I should be taking my own advice. If I've got things in my house I haven't used -- let alone seen -- in a good chunk of time, then obviously I can live without them. Obviously, I should get rid of them.
Remember how my "back to basics" approach helped my golf game a few days ago? I need to try that with my life. Back in January, I resolved this would be my year of POWER -- with the P standing for Purging (getting rid of the excess, the junk, the clutter).
It's always good at mid-year, both personally and professionally, to gauge your progress on goals established at the beginning of the year. Have I gotten anywhere? Do I still want to go in this direction? Should I add any new objectives?
It's just like getting a fresh start or, what we say in my world, a Mulligan!
Monday, July 7, 2008
In Focus
How was your day? We can always have two answers for that, depending on what we focus on.
Bad day: Carter slept through alarm for 10 minutes. Moldy bread for sandwiches. No milk for Carter's lunch. Didn't get lunch break until 1:15 p.m. Finally got to the mailboxes at 4:10 p.m. Stormy weather. Humidity is 100%. My throat hurts.
Good day: Carter's back! Lots to do at work. Managed to get a workout at lunch. Get multi-tasking crown for proofing pages while on the recumbent bike at the fitness center. Had the willpower to say "no" to Shivers. But had KFC so the boys could "eat like kings" tonight. Rained all night so didn't have to mow front yard. Have someone to tuck in again.
Put them all together and my answer to "how was your day?" is just "It was a Monday." Right? A little of everything.
Bad day: Carter slept through alarm for 10 minutes. Moldy bread for sandwiches. No milk for Carter's lunch. Didn't get lunch break until 1:15 p.m. Finally got to the mailboxes at 4:10 p.m. Stormy weather. Humidity is 100%. My throat hurts.
Good day: Carter's back! Lots to do at work. Managed to get a workout at lunch. Get multi-tasking crown for proofing pages while on the recumbent bike at the fitness center. Had the willpower to say "no" to Shivers. But had KFC so the boys could "eat like kings" tonight. Rained all night so didn't have to mow front yard. Have someone to tuck in again.
Put them all together and my answer to "how was your day?" is just "It was a Monday." Right? A little of everything.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
All together now...
Our little Austin clan is back together again. This morning after church I headed over to Menomonie to meet my brother in a parking lot to exchange the goods. I shouldn't really say exchange since he gave me Carter and got nothing in return. I was more than OK with the deal!
On the way back, we stopped in Eau Claire to shop at Scheel's (a major sports store). I wanted to find a Celtics NBA championship T-shirt for hubby and some new biking shorts for myself. After finding those, we perused the clearance racks and found some Vikings items (for the record, there were Packers items on clearance, too, so no comments about the value of my team, please). Carter found two Adrian "All Day" Peterson T-shirts. He couldn't decide between the two so he somehow convinced me to buy both as a "welcome back home present." Ahh, things are back to normal again!
Didn't do much the rest of the day. Unpacking, post-Up North vacation laundry, then some project to go through Carter's shirts and see which ones he's outgrown. Why the urgency to do this his first day back? When he first stepped out of my brother's car and hugged me, I said he looked like he grew an inch taller while he was gone. So at this rate, he figures he'll be outgrowing some clothes by the time school starts.
Yep, it's good to be all together now .. With all this logic back in the house.
On the way back, we stopped in Eau Claire to shop at Scheel's (a major sports store). I wanted to find a Celtics NBA championship T-shirt for hubby and some new biking shorts for myself. After finding those, we perused the clearance racks and found some Vikings items (for the record, there were Packers items on clearance, too, so no comments about the value of my team, please). Carter found two Adrian "All Day" Peterson T-shirts. He couldn't decide between the two so he somehow convinced me to buy both as a "welcome back home present." Ahh, things are back to normal again!
Didn't do much the rest of the day. Unpacking, post-Up North vacation laundry, then some project to go through Carter's shirts and see which ones he's outgrown. Why the urgency to do this his first day back? When he first stepped out of my brother's car and hugged me, I said he looked like he grew an inch taller while he was gone. So at this rate, he figures he'll be outgrowing some clothes by the time school starts.
Yep, it's good to be all together now .. With all this logic back in the house.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
You Are My Sunshine...
What a beautiful, sunny day today. Anyone who was camping or doing any outdoor activities for the long holiday weekend was spoiled this year.
This afternoon we had a 50th wedding anniversary party to go to on the river, well next to the river. The gentleman in the couple was Jim's former boss when they both worked in sports at the newspaper. Wonderful, wonderful guy.
Nice day to be sitting on the banks of the Wisconsin River and talking old times. I got to go on a pontoon ride, too. That was fun. Even though there were no kids at this party, I kept thinking how Carter would have enjoyed the boat ride, etc.
I sure miss that boy. We both do! I realized today that I am going to have one heckuva time when he goes away to college. Unless he really he ticks me off in his teenage years!
Anyway, I am meeting my brother Ron somewhere about halfway between us on Sunday so I can get my baby back. I look forward to one of his back-crackin' hugs and just looking at him ... and just listening as he tells me story after story on our way back home. I miss my sunshine!
This afternoon we had a 50th wedding anniversary party to go to on the river, well next to the river. The gentleman in the couple was Jim's former boss when they both worked in sports at the newspaper. Wonderful, wonderful guy.
Nice day to be sitting on the banks of the Wisconsin River and talking old times. I got to go on a pontoon ride, too. That was fun. Even though there were no kids at this party, I kept thinking how Carter would have enjoyed the boat ride, etc.
I sure miss that boy. We both do! I realized today that I am going to have one heckuva time when he goes away to college. Unless he really he ticks me off in his teenage years!
Anyway, I am meeting my brother Ron somewhere about halfway between us on Sunday so I can get my baby back. I look forward to one of his back-crackin' hugs and just looking at him ... and just listening as he tells me story after story on our way back home. I miss my sunshine!
Friday, July 4, 2008
40-something and loving it!
Forty, forty, forty. I always wanted to shoot a golf score in the 40s -- and today I did it!!
Figures it took all week to get it right. (Or maybe I just had to be 40 for it to happen!) We picked up our friend Scott in Waupaca and headed over to Hortonville this morning to Eagle Creek Golf Course.
When I got a par on the first hole -- something that has never happened to me -- I figured I was in for a good day. But golf is golf. You par one hole and get an 8 on the next. There's no freebies for the inconsistent! By the 9th hole, I had a self-imposed "time out" just to get my head on straight.
At the turn (that's what we call the transition from the front 9 to the back 9), we grabbed a quick bite to eat and were on our way. There must have been something in that brat, I tell ya, because I finally pulled my head out of my ... cart ... and golfed. I told Jim, "OK, it's time to get back to the basics." And that was the trick. Easy half swing like a beginner and lots of concentration.
I don't pay attention to my cumulative score as we're going. I just play it hole by hole so I don't get psyched out. If Jim would have told me I had a 39 going into the last hole, I probably would have carded an 11 just because my pea-brain wouldn't have been able to handle the self-imposed pressure! That's golf. Man, I love that game.
So my final for 18 holes was an even 100. I'll take that score topped off with some fun and laughs under a nearly cloudless sky. What a wonderful way to wrap up the week.
I better sign off. Hubby's got steaks going on the grill. Then I think we'll skip the fireworks in town. Really, we've had enough excitement for a non-vacation week, wouldn't you say?
Happy Independence Day!
Figures it took all week to get it right. (Or maybe I just had to be 40 for it to happen!) We picked up our friend Scott in Waupaca and headed over to Hortonville this morning to Eagle Creek Golf Course.
When I got a par on the first hole -- something that has never happened to me -- I figured I was in for a good day. But golf is golf. You par one hole and get an 8 on the next. There's no freebies for the inconsistent! By the 9th hole, I had a self-imposed "time out" just to get my head on straight.
At the turn (that's what we call the transition from the front 9 to the back 9), we grabbed a quick bite to eat and were on our way. There must have been something in that brat, I tell ya, because I finally pulled my head out of my ... cart ... and golfed. I told Jim, "OK, it's time to get back to the basics." And that was the trick. Easy half swing like a beginner and lots of concentration.
I don't pay attention to my cumulative score as we're going. I just play it hole by hole so I don't get psyched out. If Jim would have told me I had a 39 going into the last hole, I probably would have carded an 11 just because my pea-brain wouldn't have been able to handle the self-imposed pressure! That's golf. Man, I love that game.
So my final for 18 holes was an even 100. I'll take that score topped off with some fun and laughs under a nearly cloudless sky. What a wonderful way to wrap up the week.
I better sign off. Hubby's got steaks going on the grill. Then I think we'll skip the fireworks in town. Really, we've had enough excitement for a non-vacation week, wouldn't you say?
Happy Independence Day!
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Extended Extravaganza
Today is hubby's birthday. Do you sense a theme here? We just keep on celebrating in our household. First my birthday, then our anniversary, then Jim's birthday. Typically, we try to do something special to commemorate. Maybe dinner or golf or something. This summer, it's turned into a week-long extravaganza. Love it!
Boy did we have some sincere guilt, though, this morning when Carter called me at work and said he wanted to come home. I think he was just a bit tired. He normally wouldn't be even close to missing us when he's having all that fun Up North. We couldn't get ahold of him the rest of the day (he was out having fun, too) so we assume he's recovered from that brief bout of homesickness.
Jim and I went out to lunch today with some friends at work and went to the races tonight. Sorry, there was no cotton candy machine or spinning wheel for Jim's birthday. Just me.
Jim's nephew Colin, who is 14, has moved up from the 4-cylinder class to superstocks this season. This was the first time I'd made it out to the track. Wow, what a big car! During the feature, he seemed to be holding his own OK in about 5th or 6th place when he nudged the guy in front of him and they both were sent to the back of the pack with just 5 laps to go. No way to recover from that. Every week is a learning experience for him, I guess.
After the races, there were fireworks! So we got home pretty late but don't get to sleep in for our day off Friday. Have a tee time over near Appleton so we'll have to leave the house by 8 a.m. I guess it's all part of the fun in our extended extravaganza!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Guilty Pleasures
My sister made a comment on my blog yesterday insinuating that it was brief because I didn't have time to write much thanks to my new found alone time with hubby. Yep, that's pretty much the case. We almost feel guilty about all this fun we're having -- but not quite.
When we got home last night we ventured into town for a Legion baseball game. It got started an hour late so we didn't stay for the whole thing. Figured we should get home early enough to call the boy. He had another fun-filled day getting spoiled by another aunt. It's tough being a kid, I tell ya.
This morning it rained and thundered pretty good in Iola. For awhile there Jim and I thought we might be forced to actually sit home for a night. But it cleared up in the afternoon and got rather steamy (the weather, that is).
After work, we headed east of Iola to a little golf course called Glen Cairn, tucked in the middle of farms and fields. A nice little course. A bit hilly. Got quite the workout toting those clubs around! I had a few pretty good drives I was happy with so I can't ask for more than that. I mean I could have hoped for a par or two, but I missed those opportunities, sometimes by inches. But that is golf!
On the way home, we called Carter who was at a Dairy Queen somewhere getting dropped off by one aunt and being picked up by Grandma and Grandpa. Again, I say, it's tough being a kid, I tell ya. He was very excited to tell me he went to a flea market today and found two great finds: a Randy Moss Vikings jersey ("For only a dollar, Mom!") and a hardhat (I think he said so he's "safe when you and Dad wrestle," but it might have been our cell phone connection that got that one a bit fuzzy.)
Since Carter mentioned ice cream, I convinced hubby to stop at the King Cone in Amherst (they have flavor bursts like Shivers). About 10 miles down the road, we came upon at least a dozen flashing lights at an intersection. Every emergency vehicle imaginable tending to people from at least two smashed up cars that somehow landed in the nearby field. We were detoured around it and met at least two more State Patrols headed to the scene.
I said some quick prayers and thanked God we had the sense to stop for ice cream. Who knows, those 5 minutes may have made the difference. Jim said it also helped that I had to take some extra swings on the golf course (is he saying I stink?), because that ate up a few minutes, too. You just never know.
We are grateful for the fun we're having this week. And now, even more grateful, to be home safely in our quiet little nest.
P.S. Just saw on the news that two people died in that crash. We are now even more thankful for our safety and, as always, the many blessings and pleasures God has provided us.
When we got home last night we ventured into town for a Legion baseball game. It got started an hour late so we didn't stay for the whole thing. Figured we should get home early enough to call the boy. He had another fun-filled day getting spoiled by another aunt. It's tough being a kid, I tell ya.
This morning it rained and thundered pretty good in Iola. For awhile there Jim and I thought we might be forced to actually sit home for a night. But it cleared up in the afternoon and got rather steamy (the weather, that is).
After work, we headed east of Iola to a little golf course called Glen Cairn, tucked in the middle of farms and fields. A nice little course. A bit hilly. Got quite the workout toting those clubs around! I had a few pretty good drives I was happy with so I can't ask for more than that. I mean I could have hoped for a par or two, but I missed those opportunities, sometimes by inches. But that is golf!
On the way home, we called Carter who was at a Dairy Queen somewhere getting dropped off by one aunt and being picked up by Grandma and Grandpa. Again, I say, it's tough being a kid, I tell ya. He was very excited to tell me he went to a flea market today and found two great finds: a Randy Moss Vikings jersey ("For only a dollar, Mom!") and a hardhat (I think he said so he's "safe when you and Dad wrestle," but it might have been our cell phone connection that got that one a bit fuzzy.)
Since Carter mentioned ice cream, I convinced hubby to stop at the King Cone in Amherst (they have flavor bursts like Shivers). About 10 miles down the road, we came upon at least a dozen flashing lights at an intersection. Every emergency vehicle imaginable tending to people from at least two smashed up cars that somehow landed in the nearby field. We were detoured around it and met at least two more State Patrols headed to the scene.
I said some quick prayers and thanked God we had the sense to stop for ice cream. Who knows, those 5 minutes may have made the difference. Jim said it also helped that I had to take some extra swings on the golf course (is he saying I stink?), because that ate up a few minutes, too. You just never know.
We are grateful for the fun we're having this week. And now, even more grateful, to be home safely in our quiet little nest.
P.S. Just saw on the news that two people died in that crash. We are now even more thankful for our safety and, as always, the many blessings and pleasures God has provided us.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Wedded Bliss
It's our wedding anniversary today so it's kind of cool we have a bunch of dates lined up this week. And although my hubby jokes (I think) that he's been married so long, he no longer looks both ways before crossing the street, we are happy.
A co-worker asked how many years we've been married. I told her "Just 6." And she responded, "Don't say 'just 6' -- that's a lot compared to some people!"
What's our secret? I told her, "Well, Jim accepted years ago that I am a whack job. And just last week, I accepted it, too."
I love that man!
A co-worker asked how many years we've been married. I told her "Just 6." And she responded, "Don't say 'just 6' -- that's a lot compared to some people!"
What's our secret? I told her, "Well, Jim accepted years ago that I am a whack job. And just last week, I accepted it, too."
I love that man!
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