Most of the time, I consider myself a Modern Day woman. I can think on my own two feet. And run on them, too. I will not let myself be defined by what job I hold or whose hand I hold.
That's most of the time. But some of the time, well, a lot of the time, I do let something define me.
Just this little thing. Not much bigger than a bread box. But it can make or break my day. My week. My year. Just this little thing. With the power to seduce me some days. And push me around on others. But like a woman trapped in an abusive relationship, I just can't leave it. Tomorrow things may change...
I know I'm not the only woman who gives this power to her bathroom scale. Am I?
Why do we do it? I just don't know.
What I do know is that when the numbers are up, I am feeling down. Not so much the Great Depression kind of down. More like I'm in a Grand Funk these days.
This hip business that ground my running to a halt for a month has done a number on me. Make that a big number. I haven't weighed this much since Carter was 6 months old and I decided to make some changes. Of course, back then I practically starved myself to get down to a size 6 and I certainly don't expect or need to get down there again. And wouldn't do it that way. But I can't get over the fact that in the 8 years I've been at my current employer, I have put on 20 pounds. How does that happen?
Obviously, it doesn't happen overnight, but it can be a shocker when it catches up with you. I never claimed to be a svelte runner. I have said I am more like a runner in a shot-putter's body. And when I am actively running, I am OK with that. I get my daily dose of endorphins so I am happy. At that point, my scale is not defining me -- my feeling of accomplishment is. So is my sense of health and well-being.
I decided this week that while my hip continues to heal and I am gradually getting my runner's high back, I need to find an alternate source of endorphins. Don't worry -- this doesn't get dirty!
Yesterday I went over to the fitness center at lunch (like a I used to) and gently pedaled on the recumbent bike for half an hour. It didn't hurt me or kill me. In fact, I went back again today and hopped on the treadmill to stretch the legs out. That didn't kill me either. In fact, I might go back tomorrow and sit down on the bike again.
You know what else is good about this? For the first time since probably August, I am taking an actual lunch break instead of eating at my desk so I can continue to work. Did you think my scale was the only thing with power over me? No wonder I'm in this funk.
I think I better crank up a little Funky Town on my MP3 player and do something about it! And you know we Modern Day women are always up for a challenge!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Speed Work
We just got an Internet upgrade so it is something like 5 times faster than what we have so I feel the need to type fast and think fast in run-on sentences to demonstrate my speed work!
Whew! That's too exhausting! Plus I really can't move fast after sitting on the bleachers the last 3+ hours.
Carter had a home game this evening against St. Pete's (from Stevens Point). It started out as a pretty close game but somehow we ran away with it and won 54-39. When we have a good lead, the second string gets more playing time so Carter got to play quite a bit. That's good. He needs more practice and more confidence.
Tonight he definitely was not afraid. He put up the ball 3 times -- was 0 for 3 but he was trying. He also had 3 fouls so I guess he is getting a bit more aggressive. Now he just needs to keep it legal.
After his game, we went directly over to the high school and watched the varsity boys take on Port Edwards. We fell behind immediately and at one point we were down 22-13. But somehow, with some speed work of their own, we got the ball back, the lead back and a win! A big win -- 71-57! What a fun game!
We told Carter he missed a good one. Oh he was there alright, but spent the entire game in the cafeteria with 3 girls.
I don't even want to know about that speed work! Not at all!
Whew! That's too exhausting! Plus I really can't move fast after sitting on the bleachers the last 3+ hours.
Carter had a home game this evening against St. Pete's (from Stevens Point). It started out as a pretty close game but somehow we ran away with it and won 54-39. When we have a good lead, the second string gets more playing time so Carter got to play quite a bit. That's good. He needs more practice and more confidence.
Tonight he definitely was not afraid. He put up the ball 3 times -- was 0 for 3 but he was trying. He also had 3 fouls so I guess he is getting a bit more aggressive. Now he just needs to keep it legal.
After his game, we went directly over to the high school and watched the varsity boys take on Port Edwards. We fell behind immediately and at one point we were down 22-13. But somehow, with some speed work of their own, we got the ball back, the lead back and a win! A big win -- 71-57! What a fun game!
We told Carter he missed a good one. Oh he was there alright, but spent the entire game in the cafeteria with 3 girls.
I don't even want to know about that speed work! Not at all!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Cyber Monday
For the people not willing (or stupid enough) to go Black Friday shopping, today was their day. Just sit at computer, browse a few websites, find a gift, punch in your credit card number and Santa will add it to his sleigh.
Now why didn't I think of that?
Actually, a good shopper combines Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals... and sandwiches in a Cookie Bake in between!
I did find a few minutes today to find that one thing Carter and I looked for yesterday. So my shopping for my hubby and for my name drawn in his family are all done, too. Carter's godparents are all taken care of. My twin sister's gift arrived in the mail this weekend, too. I am on a roll. And I like it.
Ultimately, the goal is to have most shopping done and the cards sent out in the mail by the first weekend in December so I can enjoy all 12 to 24 days of Christmas in a state of Hallmark-channel induced relaxation.
It's always good to have a goal. I just rarely reach it. Right now I am stuck on one little part of the card project. I think the creativity train has left the station. I also am staring at a bare corner of the living room that usually houses that big, fat useless prelit tree that is slowly burned out to partially lit. And a small part.
We are contemplating getting a different tree. I'd like a "slim" one since the new TV takes up more room now. I also don't care if it's prelit. That's so temporary. You end up stringing lights in 3 years or less anyway! Our problem is what to do with the old one. It's still a big, fat artificial tree. It's just heavy as heck and only one little section of the built-in lights work.
They wouldn't take that at Goodwill would they? Or where?? We're open to ideas. I am still working on that New Year's resolution that requires non-hoarding thinking. Get rid of something then replace. Don't add something to the pile.
It's always good to have a goal.
Right now I have to do some non-fun cyber spending. It's called bill paying.
Bah Humbug!
Now why didn't I think of that?
Actually, a good shopper combines Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals... and sandwiches in a Cookie Bake in between!
I did find a few minutes today to find that one thing Carter and I looked for yesterday. So my shopping for my hubby and for my name drawn in his family are all done, too. Carter's godparents are all taken care of. My twin sister's gift arrived in the mail this weekend, too. I am on a roll. And I like it.
Ultimately, the goal is to have most shopping done and the cards sent out in the mail by the first weekend in December so I can enjoy all 12 to 24 days of Christmas in a state of Hallmark-channel induced relaxation.
It's always good to have a goal. I just rarely reach it. Right now I am stuck on one little part of the card project. I think the creativity train has left the station. I also am staring at a bare corner of the living room that usually houses that big, fat useless prelit tree that is slowly burned out to partially lit. And a small part.
We are contemplating getting a different tree. I'd like a "slim" one since the new TV takes up more room now. I also don't care if it's prelit. That's so temporary. You end up stringing lights in 3 years or less anyway! Our problem is what to do with the old one. It's still a big, fat artificial tree. It's just heavy as heck and only one little section of the built-in lights work.
They wouldn't take that at Goodwill would they? Or where?? We're open to ideas. I am still working on that New Year's resolution that requires non-hoarding thinking. Get rid of something then replace. Don't add something to the pile.
It's always good to have a goal.
Right now I have to do some non-fun cyber spending. It's called bill paying.
Bah Humbug!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Safely Home Again
Amazingly, I put 400+ miles on the car since yesterday morning and not once did I have to brake for a deer or slow down due to slippery road conditions. If this is traveling in late November in Wisconsin, I'll take it!
Actually the drive up to my twin sister's (near Siren) was a tough one. It was foggy and drizzly the whole 4 hours. But it could have been worse, much worse. And we were there before noon so we could make the most of the day.
We definitely packed a lot into our 35 hours away.
Saturday was busy with the Cookie Bake slash Exchange slash Game Day! Had a good crowd of 4 of my 6 sisters, my brother, my mom, two nephews (one w/girlfriend) and 4 nieces (one w/boyfriend). Between visiting, eating and playing games, we were laughing it up til late in the evening.
After everyone left, Raylene and I roped Carter into watching a holiday movie with us on Hallmark from 9-11 p.m. (Oh don't let him fool you, he got into it.)
Got up early today so we could visit my parents a bit and drop a few things off ... and fix a few things. Sometimes I forget how old and needy they are. Glad I can do little things for them -- like show them how to work their remote!
After our visit, Carter and I headed home with a mission to stop at Bargain Bill's in Rice Lake for a scrapbooking mission, then the Oakwood Mall for a major shopping mission. After stopping into every top brand-name store imaginable for Carter's "needs," my wallet was a lot lighter but at least I got some things crossed off his Wish List. On the other hand, hubby's list went unchecked. I had something in mind, just didn't find it. So we headed home. For real this time.
Saw a ton of cars and a lot of speed-trap cops, too. But no deer.
Glad to be home safely. Just in time for another Hallmark movie.
Actually the drive up to my twin sister's (near Siren) was a tough one. It was foggy and drizzly the whole 4 hours. But it could have been worse, much worse. And we were there before noon so we could make the most of the day.
We definitely packed a lot into our 35 hours away.
Saturday was busy with the Cookie Bake slash Exchange slash Game Day! Had a good crowd of 4 of my 6 sisters, my brother, my mom, two nephews (one w/girlfriend) and 4 nieces (one w/boyfriend). Between visiting, eating and playing games, we were laughing it up til late in the evening.
After everyone left, Raylene and I roped Carter into watching a holiday movie with us on Hallmark from 9-11 p.m. (Oh don't let him fool you, he got into it.)
Got up early today so we could visit my parents a bit and drop a few things off ... and fix a few things. Sometimes I forget how old and needy they are. Glad I can do little things for them -- like show them how to work their remote!
After our visit, Carter and I headed home with a mission to stop at Bargain Bill's in Rice Lake for a scrapbooking mission, then the Oakwood Mall for a major shopping mission. After stopping into every top brand-name store imaginable for Carter's "needs," my wallet was a lot lighter but at least I got some things crossed off his Wish List. On the other hand, hubby's list went unchecked. I had something in mind, just didn't find it. So we headed home. For real this time.
Saw a ton of cars and a lot of speed-trap cops, too. But no deer.
Glad to be home safely. Just in time for another Hallmark movie.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Putzy Cookie Bake Project
Now that the annual Hedberg Cookie Bake is in full swing at my sister Raylene's house, I can finally unveil my putzy cookie bake project. I just call this "I'm melting!"
Is that not adorable -- if I do say so myself?? I have to give hubby all the credit. He spotted something like this online and said, "You could do this!"
And so I did!
And you can, too. The base is a sugar cookie. You can use small tubes of decorator's icing to make the "surprise" snowman faces on the marshmallow. Set aside so the frosting sets. Then you put the plain white cookie icing on the cookie and spead out with the back of a spoon so it looks like it's melting over the edges. Put snowman head in place and add the frosting buttons and arms.
Now this is where mine got super-putzy. I couldn't find a small tube of black decorator frosting for the eyes, mouth and arms. So I used dark purple for the eyes and mouth, but for the arms, I used licorice. I opted for brown chocolate licorice since I wasn't sure everyone in my family liked black licorice. Then I used my kitchen scissors and cut out all the teeny-tiny arms and twig hands. Uff da.
Super putzy. But worth it.
Is that not adorable -- if I do say so myself?? I have to give hubby all the credit. He spotted something like this online and said, "You could do this!"
And so I did!And you can, too. The base is a sugar cookie. You can use small tubes of decorator's icing to make the "surprise" snowman faces on the marshmallow. Set aside so the frosting sets. Then you put the plain white cookie icing on the cookie and spead out with the back of a spoon so it looks like it's melting over the edges. Put snowman head in place and add the frosting buttons and arms.
Now this is where mine got super-putzy. I couldn't find a small tube of black decorator frosting for the eyes, mouth and arms. So I used dark purple for the eyes and mouth, but for the arms, I used licorice. I opted for brown chocolate licorice since I wasn't sure everyone in my family liked black licorice. Then I used my kitchen scissors and cut out all the teeny-tiny arms and twig hands. Uff da.
Super putzy. But worth it.
Friday, November 25, 2011
The Black Side
When I worked for some retail trade magazines, I learned the meaning behind "Black Friday." If a business makes enough profit the day after Thanksgiving, they could finish the year with their accounting ledgers in the black -- versus red, signifying debt.
I'm pretty sure from my experience last night, though, that they call it Black Friday because the irresistible sales call to the deep, dark, black corner of our hearts where selfishness and greed reside.
And it's ugly.
This year was the first year that most major chains decided to open at midnight Thursday instead of waiting until 5 a.m. Friday. And some, even at 10 p.m. Thursday! I thought, "Who would have the energy to shop Thanksgiving night after indulging in turkey, stuffing, pie and couch time all day??"
The answer: Just about everyone!
Personally, I only started going out on Black Friday the last couple of years when there was something I had been waiting to purchase and it was finally a great deal. I have never been there, though, for the exact moment a store opens and the crowd of thousands rush in. I had no idea what I was missing!
Last night, Carter volunteered to come with me to Wal-Mart, where I had my eye on two items -- one (a gift) going on sale at 10 p.m. and the other (a small digital camera) at midnight. The thing with Wal-Mart is that it is open 24 hours so they have cellophane wrap around all the Black Friday deals, then cut it open at the time it goes on sale and people can grab it. I guess it beats waiting out in the cold for a store to open.
We initially were going to get to the store at 10:30 p.m., grab the item and then just wait for the other. At the last-minute, I decided we should probably get there before 10. I don't know what rock I've been living under but nothing could prepare me for the shock of the full parking lots in and near Wal-Mart and parking on the roads nearby. We're talking a Super Center with a ton of parking. Holy crap. Where did all these people come from?
Armed with my Black Friday Store Map, I knew where we had to head to get this PS3 game. The produce section. I know, right? They have things in weird places. So we get into the store and there is a mass of hundreds of people near the video area. We figured out they were standing around pallets of games but we couldn't see which one had PS3 games and which had Wii. When we finally peeked through enough people to see which one had the PS3 Madden '12 game, we elbowed our way close.
Which, in reality, was nowhere close.
When the time signaled for the cellophane to come off, it was scary. I mean seriously life-threatening scary. Carter and I were trying to reach in, but while getting pushed and jostled and squished from every direction. Were we going to be trampled alive? I thought I was going to faint at one point. But getting flattened against the shelf of apples brought me back in a hurry. Ouch.
Needless to say, the pallet was cleared in 18 seconds tops. And our hands were empty.
Since we were stuck in the mass, we did manage to grab a few Blu-ray movies nearby for $5 a piece -- but nothing we couldn't live without.
Now here's the top-secret deal that the store doesn't want you to know... On a whim, we went back to the electronics department to see if there were any games back there on sale. They are all under lock and key but the attendant had the one by the PS3 games open. When we spotted the Madden game on the shelf, I figured we might as well get it since that's the only thing our nephew Colin wanted anyway. The guy hands it to me and I say, "Can we still get the deal on this even if it wasn't up front?" He says, "As far as I know."
Seriously? We could have waltzed back here -- with all body parts intact -- first? (I'd lock that tip away for later.)
I wasn't going to get my hopes up until we checked out. When they scanned it and the $28 price popped up, Carter and I just looked at each other like we won the lottery.
Pretty pathetic.
So we took the goods out to the car. Gave each other a high five and said, "That's it for Round 1!"
Oh yeah, we knew exactly what we had to do for Round 2...
At 12:21 a.m. my Black Friday shopping was done. Thanks to skirting the rules a bit, I had the two items I wanted.
But I felt kind of black inside.
I'm pretty sure from my experience last night, though, that they call it Black Friday because the irresistible sales call to the deep, dark, black corner of our hearts where selfishness and greed reside.
And it's ugly.
This year was the first year that most major chains decided to open at midnight Thursday instead of waiting until 5 a.m. Friday. And some, even at 10 p.m. Thursday! I thought, "Who would have the energy to shop Thanksgiving night after indulging in turkey, stuffing, pie and couch time all day??"
The answer: Just about everyone!
Personally, I only started going out on Black Friday the last couple of years when there was something I had been waiting to purchase and it was finally a great deal. I have never been there, though, for the exact moment a store opens and the crowd of thousands rush in. I had no idea what I was missing!
Last night, Carter volunteered to come with me to Wal-Mart, where I had my eye on two items -- one (a gift) going on sale at 10 p.m. and the other (a small digital camera) at midnight. The thing with Wal-Mart is that it is open 24 hours so they have cellophane wrap around all the Black Friday deals, then cut it open at the time it goes on sale and people can grab it. I guess it beats waiting out in the cold for a store to open.
We initially were going to get to the store at 10:30 p.m., grab the item and then just wait for the other. At the last-minute, I decided we should probably get there before 10. I don't know what rock I've been living under but nothing could prepare me for the shock of the full parking lots in and near Wal-Mart and parking on the roads nearby. We're talking a Super Center with a ton of parking. Holy crap. Where did all these people come from?
Armed with my Black Friday Store Map, I knew where we had to head to get this PS3 game. The produce section. I know, right? They have things in weird places. So we get into the store and there is a mass of hundreds of people near the video area. We figured out they were standing around pallets of games but we couldn't see which one had PS3 games and which had Wii. When we finally peeked through enough people to see which one had the PS3 Madden '12 game, we elbowed our way close.
Which, in reality, was nowhere close.
When the time signaled for the cellophane to come off, it was scary. I mean seriously life-threatening scary. Carter and I were trying to reach in, but while getting pushed and jostled and squished from every direction. Were we going to be trampled alive? I thought I was going to faint at one point. But getting flattened against the shelf of apples brought me back in a hurry. Ouch.
Needless to say, the pallet was cleared in 18 seconds tops. And our hands were empty.
Since we were stuck in the mass, we did manage to grab a few Blu-ray movies nearby for $5 a piece -- but nothing we couldn't live without.
Now here's the top-secret deal that the store doesn't want you to know... On a whim, we went back to the electronics department to see if there were any games back there on sale. They are all under lock and key but the attendant had the one by the PS3 games open. When we spotted the Madden game on the shelf, I figured we might as well get it since that's the only thing our nephew Colin wanted anyway. The guy hands it to me and I say, "Can we still get the deal on this even if it wasn't up front?" He says, "As far as I know."
Seriously? We could have waltzed back here -- with all body parts intact -- first? (I'd lock that tip away for later.)
I wasn't going to get my hopes up until we checked out. When they scanned it and the $28 price popped up, Carter and I just looked at each other like we won the lottery.
Pretty pathetic.
So we took the goods out to the car. Gave each other a high five and said, "That's it for Round 1!"
Oh yeah, we knew exactly what we had to do for Round 2...
At 12:21 a.m. my Black Friday shopping was done. Thanks to skirting the rules a bit, I had the two items I wanted.
But I felt kind of black inside.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
More Stuffing?
I can see what turkeys have to squawk about. It is no fun being stuffed! In fact, it's almost painful!
But it's Thanksgiving. The food is good so we eat it. And eat some more. Then just a bit more. Lord knows we won't get pumpkin pie if we don't clean our plate!
Oh, I am thinking of how unhealthy I feel at the moment. But feel fortunate we had an excellent meal at my in-laws and nice time visiting with hubby's side of the family. Casey is home from college this weekend so we got to see him, too. Bonus!
Throughout the month of November leading up to Thanksgiving, I have been posting something I am thankful for each day as my "status" on Facebook. You know, I hardly made a dent. I never had to think "Oh boy, I wonder what I can say today?" It was always, "There are so many things, how do I narrow it down to one?"
That's what I love about this time of year. A real focus on gratitude.
Today -- in central Wisconsin anyway -- we can all certainly be thankful for the gorgeous day. No travel worries, that's for sure. It was sunny and mild. Felt like 50 but who knows if it really got up there. Just nice enough for hubby to hang all the icicle lights outside and for me to attempt another run/walk.
I went at noon. Everyone was either inside eating or watching the Lions game, so no traffic and no deer hunters. I still wore my blaze orange hat, of course. I was thankful that I managed fine on my 4-mile route. Still alternated walking and running with each song but my hip didn't scream at me so I took that as a good sign.
In the midafternoon, we headed into town. Stopped by our friends the Jacksons first since their 13-year-old was visiting from Georgia. So Carter got to spend a little time with him anyway before we went to Jim's parents.
Since we are so far away from my family, it sure makes Thanksgiving special when I can spend it with my other family and close friends. How lucky we are!
I bet you are, too. Hope you all found much to be thankful for today. I'm sure God wouldn't mind if we thanked him for those blessings every day -- not just the last Thursday in November!
Thank you, God. And thank YOU for being a special part of my life.
Happy Thanksgiving!
But it's Thanksgiving. The food is good so we eat it. And eat some more. Then just a bit more. Lord knows we won't get pumpkin pie if we don't clean our plate!
Oh, I am thinking of how unhealthy I feel at the moment. But feel fortunate we had an excellent meal at my in-laws and nice time visiting with hubby's side of the family. Casey is home from college this weekend so we got to see him, too. Bonus!
Throughout the month of November leading up to Thanksgiving, I have been posting something I am thankful for each day as my "status" on Facebook. You know, I hardly made a dent. I never had to think "Oh boy, I wonder what I can say today?" It was always, "There are so many things, how do I narrow it down to one?"
That's what I love about this time of year. A real focus on gratitude.
Today -- in central Wisconsin anyway -- we can all certainly be thankful for the gorgeous day. No travel worries, that's for sure. It was sunny and mild. Felt like 50 but who knows if it really got up there. Just nice enough for hubby to hang all the icicle lights outside and for me to attempt another run/walk.
I went at noon. Everyone was either inside eating or watching the Lions game, so no traffic and no deer hunters. I still wore my blaze orange hat, of course. I was thankful that I managed fine on my 4-mile route. Still alternated walking and running with each song but my hip didn't scream at me so I took that as a good sign.
In the midafternoon, we headed into town. Stopped by our friends the Jacksons first since their 13-year-old was visiting from Georgia. So Carter got to spend a little time with him anyway before we went to Jim's parents.
Since we are so far away from my family, it sure makes Thanksgiving special when I can spend it with my other family and close friends. How lucky we are!
I bet you are, too. Hope you all found much to be thankful for today. I'm sure God wouldn't mind if we thanked him for those blessings every day -- not just the last Thursday in November!
Thank you, God. And thank YOU for being a special part of my life.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Full Already
We only had a half day at work today so did not bother with the hour commute. I got done what I needed to and filled the rest of the day. And I mean it was full.
Since we had basketball last night, we missed Parent-Teacher Conferences for Carter. But since there was no school today, they held them again from 9-noon. That worked out even better. No lines and it took just over an hour -- versus a 3-hour evening with much standing. (We'll lock this discovery away for next year.)
So what can we learn about our son in 70 minutes that we didn't already know? Not much. But it's always good to hear it again. While his report card has some areas in need of improvement, he certainly didn't lack for positive reports from his teachers. I will never get tired of hearing he is a "good kid," respectful, reliable and "a pleasure to have in class."
We certainly aren't ones to take that for granted. So when we got home, we decided we'd take Carter out for lunch -- his choice. While I finished up some work, he mulled over his options. I'm so glad he didn't pick fast food! We ended up going to Hong Kong Buffet, where you eat too much then need a nap. Luckily, this was one of those days we could take one!
But I didn't.
I baked up some more Amish Friendship Bread. This time I made muffins, too. Then I whipped together some grape salads for Thanksgiving and the Cookie Bake Potluck. By then it was 4 o'clock already and getting dark. I donned my reflective vest, my blaze orange hat and running shoes, and headed down the road. I did a 2-mile route again of running for one song, walking for one, running again and so on. That seems to do the trick. I still have the discomfort in my "only time will heal" hip, but it's not as bad as it was a week ago and not nearly as bad as a month ago. Patience.
After I showered, I got ready for church. Didn't have to make supper since we were all still full from lunch! Carter and I went to church at 6:30. Had a nice Thanksgiving Eve service. Carter and the confirmation students did all the worship readings, prayers, etc. Afterwards, we had a pie social because a person can never have too much pumpkin pie during Thanksgiving week.
Got home and I really could have just gone to bed after such a full day. But I had this wise idea to play cards with hubby. I must be tired because he beat me and beat me bad. And I didn't even put up a fight.
I better rest up. Tomorrow is going to be just as full. And so will my tummy!
Since we had basketball last night, we missed Parent-Teacher Conferences for Carter. But since there was no school today, they held them again from 9-noon. That worked out even better. No lines and it took just over an hour -- versus a 3-hour evening with much standing. (We'll lock this discovery away for next year.)
So what can we learn about our son in 70 minutes that we didn't already know? Not much. But it's always good to hear it again. While his report card has some areas in need of improvement, he certainly didn't lack for positive reports from his teachers. I will never get tired of hearing he is a "good kid," respectful, reliable and "a pleasure to have in class."
We certainly aren't ones to take that for granted. So when we got home, we decided we'd take Carter out for lunch -- his choice. While I finished up some work, he mulled over his options. I'm so glad he didn't pick fast food! We ended up going to Hong Kong Buffet, where you eat too much then need a nap. Luckily, this was one of those days we could take one!
But I didn't.
I baked up some more Amish Friendship Bread. This time I made muffins, too. Then I whipped together some grape salads for Thanksgiving and the Cookie Bake Potluck. By then it was 4 o'clock already and getting dark. I donned my reflective vest, my blaze orange hat and running shoes, and headed down the road. I did a 2-mile route again of running for one song, walking for one, running again and so on. That seems to do the trick. I still have the discomfort in my "only time will heal" hip, but it's not as bad as it was a week ago and not nearly as bad as a month ago. Patience.
After I showered, I got ready for church. Didn't have to make supper since we were all still full from lunch! Carter and I went to church at 6:30. Had a nice Thanksgiving Eve service. Carter and the confirmation students did all the worship readings, prayers, etc. Afterwards, we had a pie social because a person can never have too much pumpkin pie during Thanksgiving week.
Got home and I really could have just gone to bed after such a full day. But I had this wise idea to play cards with hubby. I must be tired because he beat me and beat me bad. And I didn't even put up a fight.
I better rest up. Tomorrow is going to be just as full. And so will my tummy!
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Victory :: We'll take it
Dateline AUBURNDALE -- When the score at the end of the first quarter was something like 5-5, we knew it wasn't going to be pretty. But in the end, an ugly win is still a win!
Our 8th-grade boys really did do a pretty good job on defense and held Auburndale to just 13 points. For the whole game! So we got our first win -- and on the road to boot -- with a final score of 22-13.
Carter had some good plays on defense and was 0 for 2 on offense. He was up against this giant of a man-child and couldn't get a shot over him. Oh well, at least he was trying.
On the way home, we had to spoil the victor (isn't that how the saying goes?) and stop at Chips Hamburgers to get him supper. He even ordered a mint shake and I didn't. (Just too many visions of sugar plums and pumpkin pies dancing in my head already.)
After depositing the boys at home, I went to Wal-Mart to scope out the store. Not really. I already printed out my Black Friday store map. I was just going to get a few ingredients for some salads I am making for Thanksgiving dinner and my family gathering Saturday. A surprisingly light crowd. And a surprising supply of ingredients still in stock. If I had the time and ambition to make a pumpkin pie, I could!
But I don't have either. Even if this is my "Friday" and I am not back in the office until Monday, I have things to do before the weekend -- cookies to sort and divvy up, an early Christmas present to wrap and at least one more Christmas book to finish.
Oooh, that last one involves relaxing under my warm blankets. Let's start there...
Our 8th-grade boys really did do a pretty good job on defense and held Auburndale to just 13 points. For the whole game! So we got our first win -- and on the road to boot -- with a final score of 22-13.
Carter had some good plays on defense and was 0 for 2 on offense. He was up against this giant of a man-child and couldn't get a shot over him. Oh well, at least he was trying.
On the way home, we had to spoil the victor (isn't that how the saying goes?) and stop at Chips Hamburgers to get him supper. He even ordered a mint shake and I didn't. (Just too many visions of sugar plums and pumpkin pies dancing in my head already.)
After depositing the boys at home, I went to Wal-Mart to scope out the store. Not really. I already printed out my Black Friday store map. I was just going to get a few ingredients for some salads I am making for Thanksgiving dinner and my family gathering Saturday. A surprisingly light crowd. And a surprising supply of ingredients still in stock. If I had the time and ambition to make a pumpkin pie, I could!
But I don't have either. Even if this is my "Friday" and I am not back in the office until Monday, I have things to do before the weekend -- cookies to sort and divvy up, an early Christmas present to wrap and at least one more Christmas book to finish.
Oooh, that last one involves relaxing under my warm blankets. Let's start there...
Monday, November 21, 2011
Holiday Greetings
We were rewarded with an unexpected "free night" tonight. No basketball game or practice to go to. No homework to oversee. No supper to make since the fridge is bursting with leftovers. Nothing on TV that I really have to see.
What to do?
I figured I might as well print out labels for Christmas card envelopes. Don't get all envious. I don't have envelopes yet. Let alone a card picked out or photo for it. But heck, you start one part of the process and the rest is sure to come, right?
It did!
I said to hubby, "Do you think we really need to include a letter this year or can we just send a photo card?" Those who know I try to "create" a different type of letter or card layout each year know this is sure sign I am in a holiday funk. Would I really send something out that doesn't reflect any creativity on my part?
Hubby gave me permission. He said, "That's fine if we just do the card."
Wow, what a relief. One less thing to do!
But of course, as I was sitting at the computer, watching the address labels print out, I was struck with an idea. And I ran with it!
In 30 minutes, I had our "letter" designed, printed and proofed by a top-notch editor. And I like it.
I guess I do work best under deadline. Next deadline should be getting some sort of card to go with it. Oh and stamps, too. First deadline, though, is finishing up that Peppermint Stick ice cream before it melts!
M-m-m... what holiday stress?
What to do?
I figured I might as well print out labels for Christmas card envelopes. Don't get all envious. I don't have envelopes yet. Let alone a card picked out or photo for it. But heck, you start one part of the process and the rest is sure to come, right?
It did!
I said to hubby, "Do you think we really need to include a letter this year or can we just send a photo card?" Those who know I try to "create" a different type of letter or card layout each year know this is sure sign I am in a holiday funk. Would I really send something out that doesn't reflect any creativity on my part?
Hubby gave me permission. He said, "That's fine if we just do the card."
Wow, what a relief. One less thing to do!
But of course, as I was sitting at the computer, watching the address labels print out, I was struck with an idea. And I ran with it!
In 30 minutes, I had our "letter" designed, printed and proofed by a top-notch editor. And I like it.
I guess I do work best under deadline. Next deadline should be getting some sort of card to go with it. Oh and stamps, too. First deadline, though, is finishing up that Peppermint Stick ice cream before it melts!
M-m-m... what holiday stress?
Sunday, November 20, 2011
What's for Supper -- Besides Elephant?
There have been more than a few occasions in my life where I failed to get something done because the task was just too daunting. When that happens, I try to recall the sage advice about tackling something larger than life...
How do you eat an elephant?
One bite at a time.
Sounds logical. But we forget sometimes.
After several late nights this school year, I have tried -- and just keep trying -- to instill this philosophy in Carter. He is awesome on the day-to-day homework, but as we found out last week with his big social studies project, he's not the best with time management and long-range planning.
When he doesn't do anything about it, he is suddenly facing elephant for supper.
On Friday, when I realized his next grading period ends Tuesday already, I said he better get done reading his book (that he has been oh-so-gradually reading for a month). I asked him yesterday -- since he didn't read on Friday -- how many pages he had left. Oh about 300.
Good grief.
So he pretty much spent most of the day in his room reading. He is not the quickest reader on the planet to begin with, but I suspect his pouting and self-pity slowed him down even further. I wisely didn't buy into it for a change. I knew I did my part weeks ago when I suggested reading a few pages a night so he could get it done in time. Who wants to sacrifice a whole weekend?
Of course, if he was any sort of chip off this old block, he would love a chance to do nothing but read all weekend! But he's not like that. Yet anyway.
He did manage to finish the book today and thoroughly enjoyed it. Do you think he'll remember this for the next grading period? Probably not. But I've got my own elephant to eat.
Spent a few hours this afternoon at my friend Becky's house scrapbooking. I'm facing lots of pages and albums on my "to do" list but as long as I keep chipping away at it and get a few pages done here and there, I feel good about the progress.
This is a good thing. I have no desire to eat an elephant.
Even if it was covered with ice cream!
How do you eat an elephant?
One bite at a time.
Sounds logical. But we forget sometimes.
After several late nights this school year, I have tried -- and just keep trying -- to instill this philosophy in Carter. He is awesome on the day-to-day homework, but as we found out last week with his big social studies project, he's not the best with time management and long-range planning.
When he doesn't do anything about it, he is suddenly facing elephant for supper.
On Friday, when I realized his next grading period ends Tuesday already, I said he better get done reading his book (that he has been oh-so-gradually reading for a month). I asked him yesterday -- since he didn't read on Friday -- how many pages he had left. Oh about 300.
Good grief.
So he pretty much spent most of the day in his room reading. He is not the quickest reader on the planet to begin with, but I suspect his pouting and self-pity slowed him down even further. I wisely didn't buy into it for a change. I knew I did my part weeks ago when I suggested reading a few pages a night so he could get it done in time. Who wants to sacrifice a whole weekend?
Of course, if he was any sort of chip off this old block, he would love a chance to do nothing but read all weekend! But he's not like that. Yet anyway.
He did manage to finish the book today and thoroughly enjoyed it. Do you think he'll remember this for the next grading period? Probably not. But I've got my own elephant to eat.
Spent a few hours this afternoon at my friend Becky's house scrapbooking. I'm facing lots of pages and albums on my "to do" list but as long as I keep chipping away at it and get a few pages done here and there, I feel good about the progress.
This is a good thing. I have no desire to eat an elephant.
Even if it was covered with ice cream!
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Happy Hunting
Today is opening day of the Wisconsin gun-deer season. Usually we are awakened by the sound of gunshots -- like we're living in the ghetto -- but today, nothing. I don't know if that's because we had a fan on low to create some white noise or if hunters weren't seeing anything in the drizzle.
I still woke up way too early for going to bed at 1 a.m. Good thing I did not have to be that productive today. And I wasn't.
Got a few chores and errands done. Spent probably too much time making a creative treat for our upcoming Cookie Bake. But in the end, it was worth it. I even took pictures but now I can't post them until after the exchange or it won't be a surprise!
I have another surprise under my blaze-orange hat, too! Call it my successful hunt... I have been thinking of ideas for a gift for my twin sister for Christmas. I had a few ideas but then something just fell into my lap and I could not pass it up. So now I am very excited and can't wait to surprise her. Again, I'll have to wait until after our family gift exchange in mid-December to share.
So what can I tell you?
Well, I got off my butt and got out for walk/run again. This time I alternated more frequently. I walked for a song in my mp3 player, then ran for a song, then walked for one and so on. My hip was uncomfortable but not so painful it forced me to stop or anything. So I'll just keep it slow and gradual, exercising patience more than anything else!
I did see a 6-point buck cross the road in front of me when I was just about back to Deer Road. Imagine that, a deer by Deer Road. Hmm... do hunters just think it's too obvious??
Good luck to you hunters searching for the big buck and you other "hunters" searching to spend a few bucks!
I still woke up way too early for going to bed at 1 a.m. Good thing I did not have to be that productive today. And I wasn't.
Got a few chores and errands done. Spent probably too much time making a creative treat for our upcoming Cookie Bake. But in the end, it was worth it. I even took pictures but now I can't post them until after the exchange or it won't be a surprise!
I have another surprise under my blaze-orange hat, too! Call it my successful hunt... I have been thinking of ideas for a gift for my twin sister for Christmas. I had a few ideas but then something just fell into my lap and I could not pass it up. So now I am very excited and can't wait to surprise her. Again, I'll have to wait until after our family gift exchange in mid-December to share.
So what can I tell you?
Well, I got off my butt and got out for walk/run again. This time I alternated more frequently. I walked for a song in my mp3 player, then ran for a song, then walked for one and so on. My hip was uncomfortable but not so painful it forced me to stop or anything. So I'll just keep it slow and gradual, exercising patience more than anything else!
I did see a 6-point buck cross the road in front of me when I was just about back to Deer Road. Imagine that, a deer by Deer Road. Hmm... do hunters just think it's too obvious??
Good luck to you hunters searching for the big buck and you other "hunters" searching to spend a few bucks!
Friday, November 18, 2011
A Night at the Opera
OK, so we weren't exactly at the opera, but my friend Christine and I enjoyed a night at the theatre anyway. And yes, I spelled theatre in the hoighty-toighty way because we are just that special.
We cut out of work a bit early so we could get over to Appleton while it was still light out, park near the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, then grab dinner. We got a free meal at Victoria's, an awesome Italian restaurant nearby.
I'm not kidding about the free meal. We happened to run into one of her co-workers from their Appleton office. Didn't think any more of it. Enjoyed a great meal and even ordered dessert to go. Then our waitress came over and said our check was already taken care of. Say what? OK, mysterious benefactor, thank you! Turns out it was her co-worker, so not so much a mystery any more but still very much appreciated!
The show -- Les Miserables -- was another pleasant surprise.
Sitting way up on the 4th level -- front row -- I was not looking down, just concentrating on the stage and hoping for the best. It did not disappoint.
This is the 25th anniversary Broadway tour but my first time seeing Les Miz (as we say in the theatre crowd). It was quite different from anything I'd seen. For one, it was a lot of male voices. Totally the opposite of Wicked, that's for sure. Secondly, there were few if any spoken lines. Every thing was sung. So in that aspect, it sort of was like a night at the opera.
It's a serious story so I didn't expect any moments of levity. But there were a few and they were incredibly entertaining. Some of the time I wasn't sure what they were singing about, but we both got very caught up in the story and were bawling at the end. Good stuff.
And good to know Culture occasionally makes a pit stop in central Wisconsin.
We cut out of work a bit early so we could get over to Appleton while it was still light out, park near the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, then grab dinner. We got a free meal at Victoria's, an awesome Italian restaurant nearby.
I'm not kidding about the free meal. We happened to run into one of her co-workers from their Appleton office. Didn't think any more of it. Enjoyed a great meal and even ordered dessert to go. Then our waitress came over and said our check was already taken care of. Say what? OK, mysterious benefactor, thank you! Turns out it was her co-worker, so not so much a mystery any more but still very much appreciated!
The show -- Les Miserables -- was another pleasant surprise.
Sitting way up on the 4th level -- front row -- I was not looking down, just concentrating on the stage and hoping for the best. It did not disappoint.
This is the 25th anniversary Broadway tour but my first time seeing Les Miz (as we say in the theatre crowd). It was quite different from anything I'd seen. For one, it was a lot of male voices. Totally the opposite of Wicked, that's for sure. Secondly, there were few if any spoken lines. Every thing was sung. So in that aspect, it sort of was like a night at the opera.
It's a serious story so I didn't expect any moments of levity. But there were a few and they were incredibly entertaining. Some of the time I wasn't sure what they were singing about, but we both got very caught up in the story and were bawling at the end. Good stuff.
And good to know Culture occasionally makes a pit stop in central Wisconsin.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Special Deliveries
Once your kid is in school -- well even preschool -- the fundraisers start and there is no end in sight. Now that Carter is going to a private school, the need for "extra" funding seems ten-fold. So pretty much any time one fundraiser ends, another starts.
Good thing I like some of the stuff he's selling!
We just picked up several boxes of those delicious Butter Braids he was selling in October. Tonight hubby and I split up the goods and each took a delivery route. He got to drop off orders out here in the country and I went to town.
Where was Carter in all this? I mean this is HIS fundraiser after all! Unfortunately, he was home on the couch with an "owie tummy" (as we used to say when he was little).
This is the second day he's come home with this. Yesterday he skipped basketball practice and came home to rest instead. He felt fine this morning, which was good since Daddy and Mommy had too much work to do to stay home. (Yes, we're terrible.) He called me at work, though, around 12:30 and said his stomach hurt again. I said, "Are you sure you can't tough it out a few hours? Or is it so bad you just can't make it?" Naturally, he says, "I just can't make it!"
Grandpa Austin's chauffeur business to the rescue!
So Carter had to miss basketball practice again. He got some rest, though, and then did his homework tonight when Jim and I ran around the countryside, spreading good cheer through frozen food!
What is Carter's next fundraiser? I'm glad you asked!
2012 Music Raffle Calendars. For $20 you get a calendar that not only fits in your purse or man bag, but gives you a chance to win money -- every day. My mom bought one last year and covered her expense with one $25 win on a day in May. Contact us for details.
Ha. I'm shameless. At this point I might as well put a plug in for my upcoming Scentsy party. Doing a book party starting Turkey weekend for these awesome "non-burning candles" of sorts. If you want to smell what you're missing, let me know and I'll stop by with samples. If you are interested in ordering, certainly get in touch with me.
I better stop. I don't want anyone to blame me if they don't have money to spend on Black Friday. And based on what I saw in "leaked" advertisements, there are some good deals to be had.
You just won't get a cute delivery guy like Jim or Carter Austin!
Good thing I like some of the stuff he's selling!
We just picked up several boxes of those delicious Butter Braids he was selling in October. Tonight hubby and I split up the goods and each took a delivery route. He got to drop off orders out here in the country and I went to town.
Where was Carter in all this? I mean this is HIS fundraiser after all! Unfortunately, he was home on the couch with an "owie tummy" (as we used to say when he was little).
This is the second day he's come home with this. Yesterday he skipped basketball practice and came home to rest instead. He felt fine this morning, which was good since Daddy and Mommy had too much work to do to stay home. (Yes, we're terrible.) He called me at work, though, around 12:30 and said his stomach hurt again. I said, "Are you sure you can't tough it out a few hours? Or is it so bad you just can't make it?" Naturally, he says, "I just can't make it!"
Grandpa Austin's chauffeur business to the rescue!
So Carter had to miss basketball practice again. He got some rest, though, and then did his homework tonight when Jim and I ran around the countryside, spreading good cheer through frozen food!
What is Carter's next fundraiser? I'm glad you asked!
2012 Music Raffle Calendars. For $20 you get a calendar that not only fits in your purse or man bag, but gives you a chance to win money -- every day. My mom bought one last year and covered her expense with one $25 win on a day in May. Contact us for details.
Ha. I'm shameless. At this point I might as well put a plug in for my upcoming Scentsy party. Doing a book party starting Turkey weekend for these awesome "non-burning candles" of sorts. If you want to smell what you're missing, let me know and I'll stop by with samples. If you are interested in ordering, certainly get in touch with me.
I better stop. I don't want anyone to blame me if they don't have money to spend on Black Friday. And based on what I saw in "leaked" advertisements, there are some good deals to be had.
You just won't get a cute delivery guy like Jim or Carter Austin!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
It's My Party and I'll Cry if I Want to...
I wasn't wearing a special outfit. I didn't make any fancy food. I didn't even have a guest list. But I was ready for a party today.
Pity Party, that is.
I really, really wanted to have one. But managed to hold off.
Work was a bit too challenging. Am still behind because of my "lack of computer" issues. So am a bit stressed there. Then learned our work team is being "right-sized" from 4 members to 3. Sure, I'm grateful to be among the remaining 3, but don't see it as a good thing for the guy who was shown the door or those of us who will pick up his workload. So I am a bit stressed there, too.
But as usual, just when I am about to don that party dress, I stop, take a breath and think long and hard about why I don't have it so bad.
Today's thought process did not have to be very long or hard.
Remember I told you about that 8-year-old boy who died Friday afternoon when he was hit by a truck while crossing the street? Today was his funeral. I can't even imagine what it would be like to have to bury my son. I have merely an inkling of the pain and sorrow the parents, siblings, family and friends are experiencing. I don't know how I could endure that. Even with God's help, I just don't know.
What I do know is that anything I would have dreamed about whining and complaining about is so petty, it's embarrassing.
And I'm grateful for that. Time to shove that party dress to the back of the closet.
For now.
Pity Party, that is.
I really, really wanted to have one. But managed to hold off.
Work was a bit too challenging. Am still behind because of my "lack of computer" issues. So am a bit stressed there. Then learned our work team is being "right-sized" from 4 members to 3. Sure, I'm grateful to be among the remaining 3, but don't see it as a good thing for the guy who was shown the door or those of us who will pick up his workload. So I am a bit stressed there, too.
But as usual, just when I am about to don that party dress, I stop, take a breath and think long and hard about why I don't have it so bad.
Today's thought process did not have to be very long or hard.
Remember I told you about that 8-year-old boy who died Friday afternoon when he was hit by a truck while crossing the street? Today was his funeral. I can't even imagine what it would be like to have to bury my son. I have merely an inkling of the pain and sorrow the parents, siblings, family and friends are experiencing. I don't know how I could endure that. Even with God's help, I just don't know.
What I do know is that anything I would have dreamed about whining and complaining about is so petty, it's embarrassing.
And I'm grateful for that. Time to shove that party dress to the back of the closet.
For now.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Fast Break
It's after 8:30 and I still didn't eat supper yet, so this is just a fast break to blog.
First stop of the day was at the chiropractor. He's a Vikings fan, too -- yes, I surround myself with them -- so we commiserated a bit but were not surprised by the outcome of last night's game. It is a nice surprise, however, to wake and discover I won the Packer pool at work. Weird how that only happens for the Vikings games. Must be my consolation prize!
The chiropractor appointment went fine. Hip and back feel much better but unfortunately, I didn't have time to test it out in a run today.
Work was busy. Finally successfully logged onto to my computer at work this afternoon. Two full work days without a computer is not good for my productivity this week.
Had to get home by 5 so we could get Carter into town for his basketball game. Tonight they played Amherst. This is always a fun matchup because Carter gets to play against Harry, his best buddy from summers in Iola. They even guarded each other tonight. That was cool.
Amherst ended up beating us by 9 points and that was better than it looked for awhile! Carter was zero percent shooting (0 for 2) from the floor. His friend Harry sunk a 3-pointer though! We'll see how it goes when we play at Amherst in a month!
Got home after 7:30 so missed the first half of Glee but caught the end and think it must have been pretty darn good. Carter is still doing homework and has yet to take a shower.
Looks like he could use a fast break, too. I better log off and see if I can help!
First stop of the day was at the chiropractor. He's a Vikings fan, too -- yes, I surround myself with them -- so we commiserated a bit but were not surprised by the outcome of last night's game. It is a nice surprise, however, to wake and discover I won the Packer pool at work. Weird how that only happens for the Vikings games. Must be my consolation prize!
The chiropractor appointment went fine. Hip and back feel much better but unfortunately, I didn't have time to test it out in a run today.
Work was busy. Finally successfully logged onto to my computer at work this afternoon. Two full work days without a computer is not good for my productivity this week.
Had to get home by 5 so we could get Carter into town for his basketball game. Tonight they played Amherst. This is always a fun matchup because Carter gets to play against Harry, his best buddy from summers in Iola. They even guarded each other tonight. That was cool.
Amherst ended up beating us by 9 points and that was better than it looked for awhile! Carter was zero percent shooting (0 for 2) from the floor. His friend Harry sunk a 3-pointer though! We'll see how it goes when we play at Amherst in a month!
Got home after 7:30 so missed the first half of Glee but caught the end and think it must have been pretty darn good. Carter is still doing homework and has yet to take a shower.
Looks like he could use a fast break, too. I better log off and see if I can help!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Let 'Er Rip
As we sat in the bleachers in a gymnasium in Wausau watching our 8th-grade boys slowly get stomped on, one mom commented, "This is like slowly ripping a Band-Aid off." That pretty much sums up the day.
Tiny twinges of pain culminating in a big fat headache.
I arrived at work to learn my computer died over the weekend and did not have the strength for a Monday-morning comeback. I called our help line right away but didn't get a human response 'til 10 a.m. Then the human was, well, human -- and erred in his setup of a new computer so it was back to the phone line. It was a slow, painful process that never did get resolved.
I was fortunate someone was absent so I could use her computer. I just didn't have access to some of my files and tried not to think about the hundreds, maybe thousands, of files I lost on my fried computer.
Ouch.
We headed up to Wausau right after work for Carter's 6 p.m. game vs. Newman. I'm not sure what the deal was but we were not in sync at all. Carter played OK, had one steal but missed a few opportunities to get the ball to an open player. But there was a lot of that all around.
I think at the end first quarter Newman was leading 17-2. Then by half it was 33-11. Are you feeling our pain yet? The final score was 60-31.
Big ouch.
Sure glad the Vikings are doing everything we expected against the Packers. Ha. They are actually. I don't think they are expected to score. I feel bad for my poor young boyfriend Christian Ponder. I bet he knows what that slowly peeling Band-Aid feels like right about now. I wish I could just rip it off for you, dear, but we still have another half to play!
Ouch.
No wonder I can't get rid of this headache. Time to take 2 aspirin and call it a night already.
Tiny twinges of pain culminating in a big fat headache.
I arrived at work to learn my computer died over the weekend and did not have the strength for a Monday-morning comeback. I called our help line right away but didn't get a human response 'til 10 a.m. Then the human was, well, human -- and erred in his setup of a new computer so it was back to the phone line. It was a slow, painful process that never did get resolved.
I was fortunate someone was absent so I could use her computer. I just didn't have access to some of my files and tried not to think about the hundreds, maybe thousands, of files I lost on my fried computer.
Ouch.
We headed up to Wausau right after work for Carter's 6 p.m. game vs. Newman. I'm not sure what the deal was but we were not in sync at all. Carter played OK, had one steal but missed a few opportunities to get the ball to an open player. But there was a lot of that all around.
I think at the end first quarter Newman was leading 17-2. Then by half it was 33-11. Are you feeling our pain yet? The final score was 60-31.
Big ouch.
Sure glad the Vikings are doing everything we expected against the Packers. Ha. They are actually. I don't think they are expected to score. I feel bad for my poor young boyfriend Christian Ponder. I bet he knows what that slowly peeling Band-Aid feels like right about now. I wish I could just rip it off for you, dear, but we still have another half to play!
Ouch.
No wonder I can't get rid of this headache. Time to take 2 aspirin and call it a night already.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Special Alert
I have to thank my friend Christine for alerting me of a Christmas movie on the Hallmark Channel. I had heard rumors they started airing already, but I hadn't had time to check into it. Christine's call came just as I found myself with the couch and remote all myself -- a Christmas miracle itself!
So I am enjoying a new holiday flick and relaxing. A perfect way to wrap up what turned out to be a weekend without that much "down time."
Today after church and Sunday school, I spent a few hours baking up my holiday treats for my family's annual Cookie Bake / Exchange coming up Thanksgiving weekend. I figured I better get them done in case next weekend gets busy, too, as weekends tend to do. After that I did some quick grocery shopping so I could get home and take a walk.
We've had 2 mild days in a row so the snow is gradually melting away. Yay! Plus, I figured it was time to hit the road. It's been 3 weeks since my hip went haywire. Thanks to the multiple chiropractor visits, chair massages and my new stretching regimen, it feels 100 times better. But I suspect it needs to feel 200 times better before I can run again.
Today I went for a short 2-mile walk. After the first half mile, I was delighted my hips and legs felt OK. So jogged slowly -- really slowly -- for just a half mile. And it felt fine. But I wisely just walked the last mile home. Don't know how it will feel tomorrow so I didn't want to push it.
That was hard. Don't like holding back. I am getting antsy.
Just glad my hip bone stayed connected to my leg bone! Hopefully, going forward, I won't have any more "body in pain" alerts. Just "Christmas movie on channel 84" ones!
So I am enjoying a new holiday flick and relaxing. A perfect way to wrap up what turned out to be a weekend without that much "down time."
Today after church and Sunday school, I spent a few hours baking up my holiday treats for my family's annual Cookie Bake / Exchange coming up Thanksgiving weekend. I figured I better get them done in case next weekend gets busy, too, as weekends tend to do. After that I did some quick grocery shopping so I could get home and take a walk.
We've had 2 mild days in a row so the snow is gradually melting away. Yay! Plus, I figured it was time to hit the road. It's been 3 weeks since my hip went haywire. Thanks to the multiple chiropractor visits, chair massages and my new stretching regimen, it feels 100 times better. But I suspect it needs to feel 200 times better before I can run again.
Today I went for a short 2-mile walk. After the first half mile, I was delighted my hips and legs felt OK. So jogged slowly -- really slowly -- for just a half mile. And it felt fine. But I wisely just walked the last mile home. Don't know how it will feel tomorrow so I didn't want to push it.
That was hard. Don't like holding back. I am getting antsy.
Just glad my hip bone stayed connected to my leg bone! Hopefully, going forward, I won't have any more "body in pain" alerts. Just "Christmas movie on channel 84" ones!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Happy Days
I've always been a fan of musicals -- from the heart break of West Side Story to the nonsense of Nunsense to the cleverness of Wicked. I love them!
In the past few years, I have been fortunate to see a few productions with Broadway touring groups and they have been phenomenal (Lion King was unreal). But I'll take an unpolished high school production any day, too. One, there's a good chance you know some of the kids. And two, it's a heckuva lot cheaper!
Tonight hubby and I had a date and saw the Assumption High School production of Happy Days. I've said it before, I am a big fan of the Fonz -- especially after he kissed me six years ago! So this was a must-see. They did an incredible job so I'm glad we decided to go.
Hubby and I were apart all day leading up to our date at Arnold's. He drove up to Eau Claire to take Casey Christmas shopping. With the older boys, we tell them what we are spending, they pick out what they want, I wrap it and they act surprised on Christmas morning. It works. They're happy and we get the shopping done early.
Carter and I bummed around this afternoon and, without planning to, got some Christmas shopping done, too. Bonus! We also got my new purple paper at the scrapbooking store, picked out charity Christmas gifts for a shoebox project at church, stopped at Rudolph cheese factory for cheese (and yes, ice cream) and wrapped up our day at ShopKo, where I managed to drop and shatter a Christmas ornament. Thankfully they didn't make me pay for the broken one -- except with embarrassment.
So now I have gifts to wrap. Yay! (Yup, I am one of those weird people who likes wrapping presents.) But I won't get to that tonight.
I'm pretty sure I need to meet someone at Inspiration Point.
A-a-a-a-y-y-y-y!
In the past few years, I have been fortunate to see a few productions with Broadway touring groups and they have been phenomenal (Lion King was unreal). But I'll take an unpolished high school production any day, too. One, there's a good chance you know some of the kids. And two, it's a heckuva lot cheaper!
Tonight hubby and I had a date and saw the Assumption High School production of Happy Days. I've said it before, I am a big fan of the Fonz -- especially after he kissed me six years ago! So this was a must-see. They did an incredible job so I'm glad we decided to go.
Hubby and I were apart all day leading up to our date at Arnold's. He drove up to Eau Claire to take Casey Christmas shopping. With the older boys, we tell them what we are spending, they pick out what they want, I wrap it and they act surprised on Christmas morning. It works. They're happy and we get the shopping done early.
Carter and I bummed around this afternoon and, without planning to, got some Christmas shopping done, too. Bonus! We also got my new purple paper at the scrapbooking store, picked out charity Christmas gifts for a shoebox project at church, stopped at Rudolph cheese factory for cheese (and yes, ice cream) and wrapped up our day at ShopKo, where I managed to drop and shatter a Christmas ornament. Thankfully they didn't make me pay for the broken one -- except with embarrassment.
So now I have gifts to wrap. Yay! (Yup, I am one of those weird people who likes wrapping presents.) But I won't get to that tonight.
I'm pretty sure I need to meet someone at Inspiration Point.
A-a-a-a-y-y-y-y!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Those Who Gave
On Veterans' Day, we have one simple thing to do: think and thank.
We need to think again about all the men and women who have served our country or gave their lives that we might enjoy the freedoms we have in America. Then thank them.
This is really something we should do every day. Heck, I wouldn't be writing this blog if someone somewhere along the line hadn't fought for our right to free speech. So I thank you veterans and all other personnel who served in peace time, too. You deserve much more appreciation than you are getting. Sorry we are falling down on the job.
For Carter's part, he and the Assumption Band played at a Veterans' Day ceremony at the Wood County courthouse in Rapids. Yes, it was cold. But that hour of discomfort can't compare to time in the trenches, in a POW camp or in a desert sand storm. Our mild complaints should be embarrassing when we think about it.
Tonight I was certainly reminded of that in a painful way.
There is one family in Wisconsin Rapids who will now remember Veterans' Day as the worst day of their lives.
Carter played basketball late this afternoon in Pittsville. This was about a 90-minute haul from work in Iola. When we were going through Rapids on the way, there were several emergency vehicles that had blocked the main road -- Grand Avenue -- so we were detoured. We were in a hurry and grumbled about the delay.
At a quick glance, we did not see any damaged vehicles or shattered glass on the scene so we didn't know what type of accident it was. When we got to the game, another parent remarked that it was blocked off when they came through an hour earlier. Nothing more was said, but when we got back to town after our loss (37-29), the road was still blocked and emergency personnel were still on the "scene" of whatever it was that happened. That's not a good sign.
We stopped to grab hamburgers and eat at Chip's. Since it was right on the "scene," we used the back entrance to the parking lot. While we were waiting for our food, just like every other patron before us, I'm sure, we asked what happened. What we learned made me lose my appetite -- and want to cry.
Two grade-school boys were crossing the street after school and one of them was struck and killed by a pickup truck. The emergency personnel were still trying to investigate the accident. And somewhere, a family sat reeling from the news that their son, probably a 4th- or 5th-grader, is gone. Forever.
He didn't give his life for our country. But he will always be remembered on Veterans' Day for his sacrifice.
Since his identity hasn't been reveled, we don't know yet if we know this boy or his family. But our hearts break all the same.
I hugged Carter extra hard tonight. If you can't think of one thing to be grateful for today, find one. If you have someone within a hundred yards of your computer who is still walking, talking and breathing, hug them and appreciate them. Veteran or not, show your love while the special people in your life are still in your life.
May God bless veterans and may God especially bless this newly grieving family.
We need to think again about all the men and women who have served our country or gave their lives that we might enjoy the freedoms we have in America. Then thank them.
This is really something we should do every day. Heck, I wouldn't be writing this blog if someone somewhere along the line hadn't fought for our right to free speech. So I thank you veterans and all other personnel who served in peace time, too. You deserve much more appreciation than you are getting. Sorry we are falling down on the job.
For Carter's part, he and the Assumption Band played at a Veterans' Day ceremony at the Wood County courthouse in Rapids. Yes, it was cold. But that hour of discomfort can't compare to time in the trenches, in a POW camp or in a desert sand storm. Our mild complaints should be embarrassing when we think about it.
Tonight I was certainly reminded of that in a painful way.
There is one family in Wisconsin Rapids who will now remember Veterans' Day as the worst day of their lives.
Carter played basketball late this afternoon in Pittsville. This was about a 90-minute haul from work in Iola. When we were going through Rapids on the way, there were several emergency vehicles that had blocked the main road -- Grand Avenue -- so we were detoured. We were in a hurry and grumbled about the delay.
At a quick glance, we did not see any damaged vehicles or shattered glass on the scene so we didn't know what type of accident it was. When we got to the game, another parent remarked that it was blocked off when they came through an hour earlier. Nothing more was said, but when we got back to town after our loss (37-29), the road was still blocked and emergency personnel were still on the "scene" of whatever it was that happened. That's not a good sign.
We stopped to grab hamburgers and eat at Chip's. Since it was right on the "scene," we used the back entrance to the parking lot. While we were waiting for our food, just like every other patron before us, I'm sure, we asked what happened. What we learned made me lose my appetite -- and want to cry.
Two grade-school boys were crossing the street after school and one of them was struck and killed by a pickup truck. The emergency personnel were still trying to investigate the accident. And somewhere, a family sat reeling from the news that their son, probably a 4th- or 5th-grader, is gone. Forever.
He didn't give his life for our country. But he will always be remembered on Veterans' Day for his sacrifice.
Since his identity hasn't been reveled, we don't know yet if we know this boy or his family. But our hearts break all the same.
I hugged Carter extra hard tonight. If you can't think of one thing to be grateful for today, find one. If you have someone within a hundred yards of your computer who is still walking, talking and breathing, hug them and appreciate them. Veteran or not, show your love while the special people in your life are still in your life.
May God bless veterans and may God especially bless this newly grieving family.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Turning Pro
I'm pretty sure when you ask a kid what they want to be when they grow up, they'll pick a pro football player or pro anything over pro crastinator. But if they aren't careful, that's their destiny.
On a day-to-day basis, Carter is excellent with his homework. He comes home from school, gets it done without asking and wouldn't dream of not handing something in in time. But with larger, longterm projects, he is not the best at planning things out and chipping away at it in manageable time blocks to get it done by deadline.
This is the situation we find ourselves in right now. And I say "we" because I lent my Cricut and crafting supplies (and guidance) to this project. It's just a booklet on an explorer that has to include some maps and journals and enough creativity to fill 24 pages. Little pages, but 24 pages nonetheless.
By Tuesday night, I could tell this was going to be a huge undertaking to get done by Friday. I told Carter that if he told me the letters he needed, I'd get them cut out on the Cricut for him and print out his info that is ready to go on pages.
Of course, I find out after I volunteered to help that he knew about this before last weekend. So he could have been working on it all weekend instead of facing a run to midnight tonight (he's got basketball practice, you know).
I envision this being a lesson to both of us -- Carter to better plan out his time and me to not volunteer to "help." (Craftiness is my weakness!)
I also know I can't lecture him about procrastination. We don't live in a glass house or anything, but I probably shouldn't be throwing stones anyway. I might hurt my back.
Honestly, I fully admit I procrastinate. Not in everything, mind you. Just when it comes to things I don't want to do. My Should List. You know you have one: I should clean out the closet... I should organize the office... I should clear off the counter and keep it that way! Oh there's plenty more should where those came from... It's just hard to get to that list. It's large. It's overwhelming. And I don't know where to start.
Too bad none of it requires cutting out letters on my Cricut. Then you know I'd be all over that. I'm sure I'd be a pro in no time!
On a day-to-day basis, Carter is excellent with his homework. He comes home from school, gets it done without asking and wouldn't dream of not handing something in in time. But with larger, longterm projects, he is not the best at planning things out and chipping away at it in manageable time blocks to get it done by deadline.
This is the situation we find ourselves in right now. And I say "we" because I lent my Cricut and crafting supplies (and guidance) to this project. It's just a booklet on an explorer that has to include some maps and journals and enough creativity to fill 24 pages. Little pages, but 24 pages nonetheless.
By Tuesday night, I could tell this was going to be a huge undertaking to get done by Friday. I told Carter that if he told me the letters he needed, I'd get them cut out on the Cricut for him and print out his info that is ready to go on pages.
Of course, I find out after I volunteered to help that he knew about this before last weekend. So he could have been working on it all weekend instead of facing a run to midnight tonight (he's got basketball practice, you know).
I envision this being a lesson to both of us -- Carter to better plan out his time and me to not volunteer to "help." (Craftiness is my weakness!)
I also know I can't lecture him about procrastination. We don't live in a glass house or anything, but I probably shouldn't be throwing stones anyway. I might hurt my back.
Honestly, I fully admit I procrastinate. Not in everything, mind you. Just when it comes to things I don't want to do. My Should List. You know you have one: I should clean out the closet... I should organize the office... I should clear off the counter and keep it that way! Oh there's plenty more should where those came from... It's just hard to get to that list. It's large. It's overwhelming. And I don't know where to start.
Too bad none of it requires cutting out letters on my Cricut. Then you know I'd be all over that. I'm sure I'd be a pro in no time!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Life-Sized Slushy
The signs were all there. We just chose to ignore them. Yes, we heard the rumors this past weekend that snow may be on its way. I think when we got through Tuesday without a flake, we falsely assumed we were in the clear. Then, this morning, we wake up and they no long say Snow Advisory but a Winter Storm Warning... with a chance of 5-8 inches of snow.In retrospect, the wise move would have been to take the golf clubs out of the car and find the snow brush, shovel and boots to put in. But no one accused us of being smart. Today anyway.
So we watched the snow pile up outside our windows at work. Heard reports of slippery roads. Observed the lights blinking several times through the course of the day as if they were on the brink of a power outage. Then decided to hit the road early.
We found out immediately that early -- 1:30 p.m. -- was not early enough.
Nothing was plowed for the first 30 miles of the trip, where my dear driver couldn't really safely accelerate beyond 30 mph in most places. Jim had to maneuver through a life-sized Slushy. And it was not a treat. It took an extra 20 minutes to get home.
I snapped some pictures quick before Carter got home off the bus and we had to head into town to the dentist. Thankfully, by then all the main roads were just wet. Side roads and parking lots were still a slushy mess. For those of you not in the path of this not-so-surprising Surprise Storm, this is what you're missing...
I think my days with Mr. Deck Chair are over for 2011. Sad.
The heavy, wet snow bent branches big time. We didn't lose any branches but, in many cases, trees fell on power lines and in nearby Stevens Point, for example, I guess thousands lost power. We count ourselves lucky!
Even the teeny tiny branches had a heavy load to bear.
Sorry, hummingbirds. You're on your own today. Unless you like Slushies...
Snow cone, anyone?
No sun was getting through to this solar panel! B-r-r-r! I get cold just looking at this!
The Batting Cage next door should probably close for the season, too.
Jim nominated himself chief groundskeeper and removed that snow before starting up the snowblower -- which started on the first try, by the way. Always a good time.
I'm pretty sure when he got done, he just came inside to warm up. Though he could have just chilled on the back deck. You'd join him, wouldn't you?Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Turn the Page
Why is it that in a child's eyes, parents are idiots?
I take that back. Not usually a child so much as a teen or a young adult. I don't get it.
And yet, I thought the same thing.
The cycle is pretty much a given. We are "gods" in our trusting child's eyes until about 10 or 12 years of age, when they get a bit skeptical, then by 14 or 15, clearly have no doubts that we are too strict, too old and way out of touch with reality. That belief only deepens over time.
I am sure (I hope) I am not the only grown adult who learned almost too late in life that our parents knew a thing or two. And regretted what I thought of them and how I treated them. Seriously, how long does it take to figure this out??
On one hand, I am embarrassed to admit I was 30 years old when I saw the light. On the other hand, I'm just glad it happened -- and it wasn't too late. My parents were (are) still alive so all I had to do was grovel a bit, beg forgiveness, turn the page and start over. It's a beautiful thing -- this adult relationship we can have with our parents. But kids don't get that.
And why should they? We didn't.
But still, knowing that someday they will get it (hopefully), they will turn that corner and we can turn that page together... still knowing that, does not make it any easier to parent. Does not erase the pain when they break our hearts. And it feels like it's on purpose. And they do it again. And it hurts even worse.
We are having a very hard time with this right now. There's an adult child who has not turned that corner. I don't even think he's on the right street yet. We hope and pray for the day it happens, but until then, we just pray. Pray for patience, tolerance, strength, wisdom.
For him and for us.
That's a helpless feeling, isn't it? But not hopeless. Thank God. Not hopeless.
I take that back. Not usually a child so much as a teen or a young adult. I don't get it.
And yet, I thought the same thing.
The cycle is pretty much a given. We are "gods" in our trusting child's eyes until about 10 or 12 years of age, when they get a bit skeptical, then by 14 or 15, clearly have no doubts that we are too strict, too old and way out of touch with reality. That belief only deepens over time.
I am sure (I hope) I am not the only grown adult who learned almost too late in life that our parents knew a thing or two. And regretted what I thought of them and how I treated them. Seriously, how long does it take to figure this out??
On one hand, I am embarrassed to admit I was 30 years old when I saw the light. On the other hand, I'm just glad it happened -- and it wasn't too late. My parents were (are) still alive so all I had to do was grovel a bit, beg forgiveness, turn the page and start over. It's a beautiful thing -- this adult relationship we can have with our parents. But kids don't get that.
And why should they? We didn't.
But still, knowing that someday they will get it (hopefully), they will turn that corner and we can turn that page together... still knowing that, does not make it any easier to parent. Does not erase the pain when they break our hearts. And it feels like it's on purpose. And they do it again. And it hurts even worse.
We are having a very hard time with this right now. There's an adult child who has not turned that corner. I don't even think he's on the right street yet. We hope and pray for the day it happens, but until then, we just pray. Pray for patience, tolerance, strength, wisdom.
For him and for us.
That's a helpless feeling, isn't it? But not hopeless. Thank God. Not hopeless.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Up on the House Top...
I sneaked a listen to my Glee Christmas CD at work today so it got me in the mood for holiday tunes. I was thinking I should make my blog title a Christmas Carol every day during the holidays. I realize it's much too early to start that now... but there is a chance for snow the next 2 days.
I know. Don't get me started.
The main reason I chose "Up on the House Top" is I was thinking about Shingles. Not the kind you put on your roof, though. I'm thinking the evil, dreadfully painful, grown-up Chicken Pox version of Shingles that is bringing my poor 84-year-old dad to his knees.
Ouch.
I recall when hubby went through this a year or two ago that it is painful even for big tough guys like Jim. So I can only imagine what my Old Man is going through. I've heard tales of people who have been hospitalized over this, so we do count ourselves lucky that Dad does not have an extreme case. Though I bet he wouldn't turn down a hospital bed and a morphine drip about now.
I suppose if he would have seen a doctor a week earlier, he could have avoided some of this. But who am I to talk? Two weeks into this hip mess and LeRoy Jr. has not made a doctor's appointment either. I did have 4 chiropractor appointments and 2 massages during that time, though. then today, I actually looked up the phone number to call and suddenly realized nothing was hurting.
Seriously? Serious.
I hope that means the advice to "just rest it" holds true. Though I can't give it too much longer. Unlike my ailing father, I still have an appetite and, last time I checked, singing Christmas carols does not burn many calories!
It doesn't hurt to try though.
"Up on the house top, reindeer pause. Out jumps good ol' Santa Claus..."
I know. Don't get me started.
The main reason I chose "Up on the House Top" is I was thinking about Shingles. Not the kind you put on your roof, though. I'm thinking the evil, dreadfully painful, grown-up Chicken Pox version of Shingles that is bringing my poor 84-year-old dad to his knees.
Ouch.
I recall when hubby went through this a year or two ago that it is painful even for big tough guys like Jim. So I can only imagine what my Old Man is going through. I've heard tales of people who have been hospitalized over this, so we do count ourselves lucky that Dad does not have an extreme case. Though I bet he wouldn't turn down a hospital bed and a morphine drip about now.
I suppose if he would have seen a doctor a week earlier, he could have avoided some of this. But who am I to talk? Two weeks into this hip mess and LeRoy Jr. has not made a doctor's appointment either. I did have 4 chiropractor appointments and 2 massages during that time, though. then today, I actually looked up the phone number to call and suddenly realized nothing was hurting.
Seriously? Serious.
I hope that means the advice to "just rest it" holds true. Though I can't give it too much longer. Unlike my ailing father, I still have an appetite and, last time I checked, singing Christmas carols does not burn many calories!
It doesn't hurt to try though.
"Up on the house top, reindeer pause. Out jumps good ol' Santa Claus..."
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Girl Power
In the Lutheran church, we celebrated All Saints Day today. Part of the tradition is lighting candles for loved ones who passed away in the last year or "saints" who may have died years ago but hold a special place in our heart.
Without fail, I tear up when we're singing Amazing Grace or How Great Thou Art -- and my grandmothers and two special aunts come to mind. No offense to my grandfathers or uncles. It's just that these women and their strength influenced me.
Grandma Minnie (on my dad's side) died when I was in junior high. I was old enough to remember and old enough to have gotten to know her over the years. She had lived on her own for most of my lifetime since my grandpa died when I was a toddler. She weathered so many storms in her 90 years. I admired her independence and her perseverance.
My Grandma Florence (on my mom's side) passed away 16 years ago when I was well into my adulthood. Flossie, as she was called, was so young at heart. I always thought, "When I am a grandma, I want to be like her!" She was still bowling regularly well into her 70s -- and walking downtown to the bowling alley to do it. Plus getting on a football pool now and then. And winning. I hope I've inherited her luck!
My Aunt Betty (my dad's sister) was my godmother. She was a hardworking farm wife and incredible cook. She had a wonderful sense of humor and seemed so full of love all the time. She even "adopted" one of our puppies -- the sister to my dog Boomer -- so we were always looking for an excuse to go visit. "Did you get enough to eat?" No one left their house on an empty stomach either. Very caring.
Aunt Virginia (my mom's sister) was one of a kind. It was obvious that she and my mom were not just sisters, they were best friends. I can recall every day during the summer when we were off of school, those "girls" would be on the phone or at each other's houses for coffee and something sweet -- either Gena's homemade banana cake or my mom's chocolate wacky cake or, in a pinch, something from the bakery. They were the best at silly songs and unique costumes.
From all of them, I have inherited special gifts that give me "girl power." I am a hard worker. I have overcome much adversity and become stronger because of it. My running shoes can attest to the fact I am trying to stay active in my old age. I absolutely love entertaining, creating songs and skits, and making people laugh. I also love baking, eating, drinking coffee and spending time with my sisters.
I feel blessed that I got something from each of them that shapes who I am today. "Being a saint" is not on my bucket list, that's for sure. But I can make a darn good impression using my inner power and my higher power.
Some day it might be worth lighting a candle over.
Without fail, I tear up when we're singing Amazing Grace or How Great Thou Art -- and my grandmothers and two special aunts come to mind. No offense to my grandfathers or uncles. It's just that these women and their strength influenced me.
Grandma Minnie (on my dad's side) died when I was in junior high. I was old enough to remember and old enough to have gotten to know her over the years. She had lived on her own for most of my lifetime since my grandpa died when I was a toddler. She weathered so many storms in her 90 years. I admired her independence and her perseverance.
My Grandma Florence (on my mom's side) passed away 16 years ago when I was well into my adulthood. Flossie, as she was called, was so young at heart. I always thought, "When I am a grandma, I want to be like her!" She was still bowling regularly well into her 70s -- and walking downtown to the bowling alley to do it. Plus getting on a football pool now and then. And winning. I hope I've inherited her luck!
My Aunt Betty (my dad's sister) was my godmother. She was a hardworking farm wife and incredible cook. She had a wonderful sense of humor and seemed so full of love all the time. She even "adopted" one of our puppies -- the sister to my dog Boomer -- so we were always looking for an excuse to go visit. "Did you get enough to eat?" No one left their house on an empty stomach either. Very caring.
Aunt Virginia (my mom's sister) was one of a kind. It was obvious that she and my mom were not just sisters, they were best friends. I can recall every day during the summer when we were off of school, those "girls" would be on the phone or at each other's houses for coffee and something sweet -- either Gena's homemade banana cake or my mom's chocolate wacky cake or, in a pinch, something from the bakery. They were the best at silly songs and unique costumes.
From all of them, I have inherited special gifts that give me "girl power." I am a hard worker. I have overcome much adversity and become stronger because of it. My running shoes can attest to the fact I am trying to stay active in my old age. I absolutely love entertaining, creating songs and skits, and making people laugh. I also love baking, eating, drinking coffee and spending time with my sisters.
I feel blessed that I got something from each of them that shapes who I am today. "Being a saint" is not on my bucket list, that's for sure. But I can make a darn good impression using my inner power and my higher power.
Some day it might be worth lighting a candle over.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Falling Back
With an extra hour added to the day thanks to Daylight Saving Time, I feel like I accomplished a lot. But I didn't really.
I was actually bragging that I got to sleep in -- which means past 8 o'clock for a change -- but then Carter trumped me by sleeping in 'til past 11 a.m. Yes, that would be 12 hours of sleep, give or take a few minutes. Wow. Here I made him cinnamon rolls at 9 a.m. so they'd be fresh when he got up. Not so much when you are rolling out of bed closer to noon.
Teenagers.
I did get my chores done, which routinely involves finding the kitchen counter that gets "lost" during the work week. I also managed to take down my fall and Halloween decorations while using my will power not to listen to Christmas music yet. I even squeezed in 2 haircuts. Gave hubby a trim and shaved down Carter's Mohawk a bit. It's almost all evened out now.
We also ran a few errands in town and went out to eat tonight with Jim's family. Initially this was supposed to be a birthday dinner for my second step-son, but he found a better gig in the Twin Cities. All I can say is he missed out on some awesome cranberry dessert at Grandma's afterwards! It was still a nice time.
Tonight Jim and I spent our extra hour watching the movie Bridesmaids together. OK, I've been planning to see this for a month but haven't been home long enough. I wasn't thinking Jim would have to see it but his buddy said it was funny and he should see it. So he was willing. I thought it was hilarious and awesome. And really more of a chick flick. I'm pretty sure hubby wants his hour back.
Don't worry honey. We'll be springing ahead in no time!
I was actually bragging that I got to sleep in -- which means past 8 o'clock for a change -- but then Carter trumped me by sleeping in 'til past 11 a.m. Yes, that would be 12 hours of sleep, give or take a few minutes. Wow. Here I made him cinnamon rolls at 9 a.m. so they'd be fresh when he got up. Not so much when you are rolling out of bed closer to noon.
Teenagers.
I did get my chores done, which routinely involves finding the kitchen counter that gets "lost" during the work week. I also managed to take down my fall and Halloween decorations while using my will power not to listen to Christmas music yet. I even squeezed in 2 haircuts. Gave hubby a trim and shaved down Carter's Mohawk a bit. It's almost all evened out now.
We also ran a few errands in town and went out to eat tonight with Jim's family. Initially this was supposed to be a birthday dinner for my second step-son, but he found a better gig in the Twin Cities. All I can say is he missed out on some awesome cranberry dessert at Grandma's afterwards! It was still a nice time.
Tonight Jim and I spent our extra hour watching the movie Bridesmaids together. OK, I've been planning to see this for a month but haven't been home long enough. I wasn't thinking Jim would have to see it but his buddy said it was funny and he should see it. So he was willing. I thought it was hilarious and awesome. And really more of a chick flick. I'm pretty sure hubby wants his hour back.
Don't worry honey. We'll be springing ahead in no time!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Perfect Game
When we knew we were going to be home tonight, Carter wanted to rent a movie. So while he was at basketball practice from 7-8:30, I got two important errands out of the way. I had to stop at the scrapbook store to find the perfect color of purple paper to go with some upcoming Vikings pages and had to rent a movie.
Normally we go for the new releases of either silly kid movies or super hero types. But tonight I didn't see anything that tripped my trigger so I picked out some unknown movie called The Perfect Game -- which turned out to be a very heartwarming true baseball story about a team from Monterrey, Mexico, that won the 1957 World Series with a perfect last game.
There was good humor and good story lines and some interesting coincidences from my few times in Mexico and Texas. In the movie, the boys crossed the border for their first game in America and had to walk 10 miles to McAllen, Texas. How weird that that is where my sister and brother-in-law live! Though I am sure it's changed since then.
For not ever hearing of this movie, it turned out to be perfect (pun intended) for our little baseball player who is always looking for inspiration. In any sport.
I think for basketball, for instance, he no longer is going to count on his Mohawk for good luck. He wants me to shave it down this weekend. Then he'll just rely on his skill to play well.
And those expensive new shoes we had to buy.
We'll see how perfect any games turn out this season!
Normally we go for the new releases of either silly kid movies or super hero types. But tonight I didn't see anything that tripped my trigger so I picked out some unknown movie called The Perfect Game -- which turned out to be a very heartwarming true baseball story about a team from Monterrey, Mexico, that won the 1957 World Series with a perfect last game.
There was good humor and good story lines and some interesting coincidences from my few times in Mexico and Texas. In the movie, the boys crossed the border for their first game in America and had to walk 10 miles to McAllen, Texas. How weird that that is where my sister and brother-in-law live! Though I am sure it's changed since then.
For not ever hearing of this movie, it turned out to be perfect (pun intended) for our little baseball player who is always looking for inspiration. In any sport.
I think for basketball, for instance, he no longer is going to count on his Mohawk for good luck. He wants me to shave it down this weekend. Then he'll just rely on his skill to play well.
And those expensive new shoes we had to buy.
We'll see how perfect any games turn out this season!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Sweet Tooth
Even though I distinctly recall 13-plus hours of incredibly painful back labor to produce a May Day baby some years back, I sometimes wonder if Carter is mine.
OK, yes he shares my love for ice cream and disdain for exercise. Yes, he likes to be the center of attention, exudes creativity and pretty much maintains an A average in school. Sounds like me, but get this.
It has been 72 hours -- not just 24 or 48 -- since he came home from trick-or-treating and he still has his bag of goodies zipped up and laying in the corner by a chair in the living room. Are you serious? Most kids have scarfed half of theirs down already!
Shh... don't tell him but I had to sneak a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. I doubt he'll miss it because he didn't say a thing about the bite-sized Twix I stole yesterday!
Yes, I have a little bit of a sweet tooth. Carter does, too, but apparently it doesn't apply to Halloween candy. He could eat Pop Tarts and Little Debbie Swiss Cake Rolls all day long, but every time he gets candy at Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter and from any parade, it takes him forever to eat it. Usually, I'm throwing one holiday's treats out to make room for the next.
A mom shouldn't complain about this really. But like my mom, I just don't like to see anything go to waste. I have gotten a bit smarter over time. For Carter's treats that I supply, I get him the beef jerky and sugar-free gum he likes. And if he gathers too much in the chocolate category, I "borrow" it and fill up my "community" candy dish at work. No harm, right? It's making someone happy.
Sometimes that someone is me. The good thing is that it is not going to waste. The bad thing is that it is going to waist!
My will power seems to be on the fritz just like my hip. Not good to be ingesting unlimited post-Halloween calories and not burning any of them. I'd hate to put on the typical holiday pounds before the holidays. I mean I'd really, really hate that.
Until I can run again, I'll just have to look for alternate ways to burn calories (don't worry I've got some ideas) ... and remember that every time I stretch my back out at work, my hand does not have to land in the candy dish.
Not every time anyway...
OK, yes he shares my love for ice cream and disdain for exercise. Yes, he likes to be the center of attention, exudes creativity and pretty much maintains an A average in school. Sounds like me, but get this.
It has been 72 hours -- not just 24 or 48 -- since he came home from trick-or-treating and he still has his bag of goodies zipped up and laying in the corner by a chair in the living room. Are you serious? Most kids have scarfed half of theirs down already!
Shh... don't tell him but I had to sneak a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. I doubt he'll miss it because he didn't say a thing about the bite-sized Twix I stole yesterday!
Yes, I have a little bit of a sweet tooth. Carter does, too, but apparently it doesn't apply to Halloween candy. He could eat Pop Tarts and Little Debbie Swiss Cake Rolls all day long, but every time he gets candy at Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter and from any parade, it takes him forever to eat it. Usually, I'm throwing one holiday's treats out to make room for the next.
A mom shouldn't complain about this really. But like my mom, I just don't like to see anything go to waste. I have gotten a bit smarter over time. For Carter's treats that I supply, I get him the beef jerky and sugar-free gum he likes. And if he gathers too much in the chocolate category, I "borrow" it and fill up my "community" candy dish at work. No harm, right? It's making someone happy.
Sometimes that someone is me. The good thing is that it is not going to waste. The bad thing is that it is going to waist!
My will power seems to be on the fritz just like my hip. Not good to be ingesting unlimited post-Halloween calories and not burning any of them. I'd hate to put on the typical holiday pounds before the holidays. I mean I'd really, really hate that.
Until I can run again, I'll just have to look for alternate ways to burn calories (don't worry I've got some ideas) ... and remember that every time I stretch my back out at work, my hand does not have to land in the candy dish.
Not every time anyway...
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like...
OK, I admit I purchased my first carton of eggnog before Halloween. And, well, you know I stashed two containers of Schwan's Peppermint Stick ice cream away long before that.
I figured that would hold me for awhile. But honestly, once the calendar turns to November, all bets are off. It 'tis the holiday season! It 'tis the most wonderful time of the year!
Tonight after dropping Carter off at confirmation, I made my way to Wal-Mart to pick up a few things. Of course, the cart goes directly to the clearance Halloween candy. I believe I am set for the candy dish at work for the rest of the year. Easy.
While I'm throwing that in the cart, it dawns on me that I am humming. Humming along to the store music overhead. Humming along to Christmas music!
Whoa. Not expecting that. And yet LOVING that! I do have an ounce of sympathy for store employees who for some odd reason don't like this joyous music and must now hear it for the next 60 days. But just an ounce.
With a hop in my step -- as much as I can hop with my hip dysplasia -- I continued shopping and was in for another pleasant surprise.
OK, I have more than one addiction. I do like ice cream, yes. But I don't know if I mentioned I like mint chocolate in many other forms, too. Well, any other form! So those Christmas Hershey's Mint Truffle kisses are a find. So are the mint holiday M&M's. And, you guessed it, I found them tonight!
I wasn't planning to load up on red-and-green anything, but I recalled how many times I go to the store in late November to get ingredients for Christmas cookies and all those treats are long gone. This isn't a joke. Last year, I had to go to Wal-Mart, then ShopKo and Target before finally finding my mint M&M's at Fleet Farm of all places. Yes, I will go to great lengths for good mint chocolate -- and good Christmas anything.
Maybe I was a bit hypnotized by Perry Como singing on the loud speaker. Probably a good thing they didn't have the Glee Christmas CD plugged in or I would have had a full cart!
OK, time to log off, have some eggnog and start reading my first "holiday" book!
I figured that would hold me for awhile. But honestly, once the calendar turns to November, all bets are off. It 'tis the holiday season! It 'tis the most wonderful time of the year!
Tonight after dropping Carter off at confirmation, I made my way to Wal-Mart to pick up a few things. Of course, the cart goes directly to the clearance Halloween candy. I believe I am set for the candy dish at work for the rest of the year. Easy.
While I'm throwing that in the cart, it dawns on me that I am humming. Humming along to the store music overhead. Humming along to Christmas music!
Whoa. Not expecting that. And yet LOVING that! I do have an ounce of sympathy for store employees who for some odd reason don't like this joyous music and must now hear it for the next 60 days. But just an ounce.
With a hop in my step -- as much as I can hop with my hip dysplasia -- I continued shopping and was in for another pleasant surprise.
OK, I have more than one addiction. I do like ice cream, yes. But I don't know if I mentioned I like mint chocolate in many other forms, too. Well, any other form! So those Christmas Hershey's Mint Truffle kisses are a find. So are the mint holiday M&M's. And, you guessed it, I found them tonight!
I wasn't planning to load up on red-and-green anything, but I recalled how many times I go to the store in late November to get ingredients for Christmas cookies and all those treats are long gone. This isn't a joke. Last year, I had to go to Wal-Mart, then ShopKo and Target before finally finding my mint M&M's at Fleet Farm of all places. Yes, I will go to great lengths for good mint chocolate -- and good Christmas anything.
Maybe I was a bit hypnotized by Perry Como singing on the loud speaker. Probably a good thing they didn't have the Glee Christmas CD plugged in or I would have had a full cart!
OK, time to log off, have some eggnog and start reading my first "holiday" book!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Calling All Saints
Today is All Saints Day. With my non-Catholic upbringing, I'm not completely sure what it takes to be a saint. But I have a good idea.
We call my brother Paul "St. Paul" sometimes because he and my sister have graciously hosted my parents down in Texas several winters. Since my sister still works, her retired saint of a hubby entertains his in-laws day after day.
That earns sainthood in my book.
Have you heard of St. James? I'm not sure how he achieved his sainthood, but I suspect it had something to do with tolerating Glee on Tuesdays, scrapbooking getaways on weekends and King Cone stops on as many days as his whiney wife demands.
On the surface it sort of looks like anyone who puts up with me is a saint! Whoa.
Move over, St. James... St. LeRoy outranks you. Just by a bit!
We call my brother Paul "St. Paul" sometimes because he and my sister have graciously hosted my parents down in Texas several winters. Since my sister still works, her retired saint of a hubby entertains his in-laws day after day.
That earns sainthood in my book.
Have you heard of St. James? I'm not sure how he achieved his sainthood, but I suspect it had something to do with tolerating Glee on Tuesdays, scrapbooking getaways on weekends and King Cone stops on as many days as his whiney wife demands.
On the surface it sort of looks like anyone who puts up with me is a saint! Whoa.
Move over, St. James... St. LeRoy outranks you. Just by a bit!
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