So... I'm sitting in somewhat of a sketchy hotel room right now in Williston, ND. I've never been to North Dakota (or South, for that matter... sorry Dad, but the face place just wasn't appealing to a teenager!) Anyway, I want to share my "adventure" with you, but am going to try and get some sleep right now.
Trust me, I decided on the plane ride here (so far the best and worst part of the story... not the best part of the trip) that I would blog about this; but the one, kinda snotty and impatient flight attendant got mad at us for even turning our cell phones on when the plane had landed in our 10 minute stop off in Gillette, WY on the way here... So! I wouldn't have imagined booting up my computer. Oh wait! I couldn't have... there were not even enough (or big enough) overhead compartments to put much more than a purse and sweater in, let alone my suitcase! So, the guys at the bottom of the stairs (stay tuned for that part!) loaded our bags for us on the Tarmack. Oh man... I shudder, this was not what I was expecting AT ALL.
Good night for now... I'll fill in the blanks later.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
I can SEE!!
So for the better part of a month now, my left eye has hurt. I mean, Hurt (<--with a capital "H"!) I have to move my whole head in order to look from side to side (it's painful just to move my eyeballs), which makes driving a bit of a challenge when checking my mirrors. And, as if the pain isn't bad enough, my left eye has been fuzzy. It's like when you have a smudge or stratch on your sunglasses that you can't clean off. Right eye? Fine. Clear as day! So John and I went to the eye doctor for exams (my first in about two years).
I sat down to read the charts, covering one eye, then the other. Covering my left eye, I could see every letter on the bottom line:
Left to right, right to left... piece of cake. Now cover the other eye--UH OH. I'm not to proud to admit it here, but I teared up. Okay, I started crying. For someone who has always been able to see perfect out of both eyes and from any distance, this was upsetting. I couldn't see the last two lines! I mean, I knew they were there, but what were those letters!?!? I fumbled through the second to last line, and admitted that the very bottom line was a total blur. And it didn't help that my eyes were welling up as I tried to squint and read. Okay, so I didn't pass that test. Let's look at some grids, squiggly lines, dots, lights... the whole sha-bang. The doctor comes into tell me that I have 20/20 vision in my right eye, and 20/30 in my left, with an astigmatism. He even broke out the cut-in-half raquet ball to show me how my eyeball has changed. Awesome.
John sits for his test while I go pick out my new frames. The gal at the desk tried making me feel better about it by saying that even though she had Lasik, she wants the doctor to put plain lenses in her frames so she can still wear them every day. She said she has about 8 pair, and she accessorizes with them! Woo-hoo! I'm not at that level of enthusiasm, yet. Granted, growing up I would put on my sister Angie's glasses whenever she wasn't wearing them, cause I thought it was fun and made me look more studious. Then again, I didn't have to wear them then, so it was still fun. Now, I've been instructed to wear them "as much as possible." Okay, fine.
Question is... Do I still look like myself? Should I take them off for pictures? If I don't, will there be a glare in the pictures? I don't know how to wear glasses!! Once I get used to them, how will I drive since I don't have prescription sunglasses? Ugh, this is quite the change for me.
So... do I still look like myself?
I sat down to read the charts, covering one eye, then the other. Covering my left eye, I could see every letter on the bottom line:
E D F T A P L
Left to right, right to left... piece of cake. Now cover the other eye--UH OH. I'm not to proud to admit it here, but I teared up. Okay, I started crying. For someone who has always been able to see perfect out of both eyes and from any distance, this was upsetting. I couldn't see the last two lines! I mean, I knew they were there, but what were those letters!?!? I fumbled through the second to last line, and admitted that the very bottom line was a total blur. And it didn't help that my eyes were welling up as I tried to squint and read. Okay, so I didn't pass that test. Let's look at some grids, squiggly lines, dots, lights... the whole sha-bang. The doctor comes into tell me that I have 20/20 vision in my right eye, and 20/30 in my left, with an astigmatism. He even broke out the cut-in-half raquet ball to show me how my eyeball has changed. Awesome.
John sits for his test while I go pick out my new frames. The gal at the desk tried making me feel better about it by saying that even though she had Lasik, she wants the doctor to put plain lenses in her frames so she can still wear them every day. She said she has about 8 pair, and she accessorizes with them! Woo-hoo! I'm not at that level of enthusiasm, yet. Granted, growing up I would put on my sister Angie's glasses whenever she wasn't wearing them, cause I thought it was fun and made me look more studious. Then again, I didn't have to wear them then, so it was still fun. Now, I've been instructed to wear them "as much as possible." Okay, fine.
Now, for the past several years, I've worn glasses to read or use the computer, so it's not altogether foreign for me. But to walk around wearing them, drive with them, etc... it just feels weird. At work, I habitually take my glasses off before walking to the printer or to a meeting, because the sole purpose of them was for the computer screen. Now, I don't take them off.
Question is... Do I still look like myself? Should I take them off for pictures? If I don't, will there be a glare in the pictures? I don't know how to wear glasses!! Once I get used to them, how will I drive since I don't have prescription sunglasses? Ugh, this is quite the change for me.
So... do I still look like myself?
Monday, October 20, 2008
Quirky, schmirky
Molly has tagged me to share 6 quirks... I hesitate, but swallow my pride and type away...
1) As mentioned in my ABC's, I coordinate my underwear to my outfit, most days. When necessary (white pants) I wear the appropriate underwear color. Otherwise, I will coordinate the colors of my under-roos to a color in my shirt/sweater or pants of choice. If I've done my job, my jewelry will coordinate as well, thus making one snazzy outfit! Though I don't remember my own mom telling me this, I'm pretty sure I heard Zach Morris' mom warn that you better have on clean underwear if you're ever taken to the hospital! Well, my are not only clean ma'am, they match!!
2) I'm a little OCD as well... In several places (locations) in my life, there is not only "a place for everything and everything in it's place", there is a very specific space for some things. At my office, the items on my desk are left in their rightful spot before I leave for the day. My pen will be in the groove of my keyboard, my staple under the shelf for my phone, the calculator in it's cubby, etc. At my old job, I came back from my two-week Honeymoon vacation, to find that my co-workers had moved every non-attached item on my desk 1/4 turn to the left. I noticed. I noticed every single one of them. And you better believe they were back in their position before I even set down my purse! Yes, they laughed at me. I'm okay with that.
3) I don't like washing Calphalon. This one won't surprise John, we've had many a conversation about it. I will load and unload the dishwasher 'til I'm blue in the face, but to hand-wash the Calphalon cookware is a CHORE to me in every sense of the word. I won't do it!
4) I don't like the temperature dial in the car to be on a number that isn't divisible by 2 or 5. I realize this only leaves out those numbers ending in 1, 3, 7, or 9, and that's okay. It's just a thing I do. The TV volume (if measured by number) should only be on even numbers as well. Downstairs, I feel 12 or 16 is comfortable. If the dishwasher is going or a window is open, 20 or 22 is acceptable. I couldn't say why! Upstairs, I'm comfortable with 12, unless John is trying to sleep, and then 6 is a good number. I have this down to a tried and tested science, as you can tell.
5) I hit "refresh" in my email about 86 times a day. I know that my email system (as archaic as it is: Lotus Notes) will deliver my email to me, I just like to help it along... a lot... and in a OCD-kind-of-way.
6) I will share with Molly in this one: I hate feet. I'm not particularly fond of my own, but REALLY don't like anyone else's. Baby feet are different. Even almost-toddler feet are okay--unless you happen to get some baby toe jam on your lips when you kiss those tiny cute grapes for toes! ...eww, that was a little gross. But there is a point, I'm learning with my nieces, when even little feet are yucky. (I won't mention names.) I don't even like John's feet. We've had many "kicking" fights under the covers when he thinks it's HI-larious to smother me with his socked/un-socked tootsies. NOT okay. I'll even go so far as to be very picky about what shoes I wear, because I think toe cleavage is gross. It isn't attractive, it's weird, and I don't like it. Yuck.
So... that's me. If you're reading this, you love me on some level, so don't let this post change that! I am who I am, and God made me this way--quirks and all! I'm not apologizing for my quirks, just asking that you might embrace the make-up that is ME. :) Cheers!
1) As mentioned in my ABC's, I coordinate my underwear to my outfit, most days. When necessary (white pants) I wear the appropriate underwear color. Otherwise, I will coordinate the colors of my under-roos to a color in my shirt/sweater or pants of choice. If I've done my job, my jewelry will coordinate as well, thus making one snazzy outfit! Though I don't remember my own mom telling me this, I'm pretty sure I heard Zach Morris' mom warn that you better have on clean underwear if you're ever taken to the hospital! Well, my are not only clean ma'am, they match!!
2) I'm a little OCD as well... In several places (locations) in my life, there is not only "a place for everything and everything in it's place", there is a very specific space for some things. At my office, the items on my desk are left in their rightful spot before I leave for the day. My pen will be in the groove of my keyboard, my staple under the shelf for my phone, the calculator in it's cubby, etc. At my old job, I came back from my two-week Honeymoon vacation, to find that my co-workers had moved every non-attached item on my desk 1/4 turn to the left. I noticed. I noticed every single one of them. And you better believe they were back in their position before I even set down my purse! Yes, they laughed at me. I'm okay with that.
3) I don't like washing Calphalon. This one won't surprise John, we've had many a conversation about it. I will load and unload the dishwasher 'til I'm blue in the face, but to hand-wash the Calphalon cookware is a CHORE to me in every sense of the word. I won't do it!
4) I don't like the temperature dial in the car to be on a number that isn't divisible by 2 or 5. I realize this only leaves out those numbers ending in 1, 3, 7, or 9, and that's okay. It's just a thing I do. The TV volume (if measured by number) should only be on even numbers as well. Downstairs, I feel 12 or 16 is comfortable. If the dishwasher is going or a window is open, 20 or 22 is acceptable. I couldn't say why! Upstairs, I'm comfortable with 12, unless John is trying to sleep, and then 6 is a good number. I have this down to a tried and tested science, as you can tell.
5) I hit "refresh" in my email about 86 times a day. I know that my email system (as archaic as it is: Lotus Notes) will deliver my email to me, I just like to help it along... a lot... and in a OCD-kind-of-way.
6) I will share with Molly in this one: I hate feet. I'm not particularly fond of my own, but REALLY don't like anyone else's. Baby feet are different. Even almost-toddler feet are okay--unless you happen to get some baby toe jam on your lips when you kiss those tiny cute grapes for toes! ...eww, that was a little gross. But there is a point, I'm learning with my nieces, when even little feet are yucky. (I won't mention names.) I don't even like John's feet. We've had many "kicking" fights under the covers when he thinks it's HI-larious to smother me with his socked/un-socked tootsies. NOT okay. I'll even go so far as to be very picky about what shoes I wear, because I think toe cleavage is gross. It isn't attractive, it's weird, and I don't like it. Yuck.
So... that's me. If you're reading this, you love me on some level, so don't let this post change that! I am who I am, and God made me this way--quirks and all! I'm not apologizing for my quirks, just asking that you might embrace the make-up that is ME. :) Cheers!
Now I know my A, B, C's...
A- Available or Single: Happily married!
B- Beach or Lake: Beach
C- Cake or Pie? Pie
D- Drink of Choice: Dr. Pepper
E- Essential Item you use every day: underwear (and see below... no pun intended.)
F- Favorite Color: Pink! Sometimes blue...
G- Gummy bears or Worms: Definitely worms
H- Hometown: Highlands Ranch, CO
I- Indulgence: Chocolate in most forms: milk, cookies, ice cream, bar, etc.
J- January or February: February, I guess. No particular reason, though.
K- Kids & Names: We want three, but I'll need to have 4 to use the names I've picked out!
L- Life is Incomplete without: Love
M- Marriage Date: September 29th, 2007... but we're still Newlyweds if you ask us!
N- Number of Siblings- Two older sisters: Angie & Amy
O- Oranges or apples: Apples, sliced with caramel, please!
P- Phobias: Honestly? ...being shot. I think it's from watching too much Law & Order or Cops or something. I don't even live in the ghetto!
Q- Fave Quote: If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.
R- Reason to Smile: Waking up every day to John's face :)
S- Season: Fall, it's just so... perfect.
T- Tag 3 or 4 people: Molly, John, Mom... not sure of anyone else who reads this thing.
U- Unknown fact about me: I coordinate my underwear to my outfit, most days. I contemplated sharing that! Then again I almost did a whole post on this... Wow, that's a lot of information on me.
V- Vegetable you don't like: Most, actually: tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, peppers, and even some fruits. What can I say, I'm a meat 'n potatoes kinda girl.
W- Worst Habit: I'm always late. Always.
X- Xrays: I've had x-rays on my teeth, chest, abdomen and... eyes? Well, they took a picture of them today. Probably doesn't count as an x-ray, but wasn't too fun, either! I think I actually dislike the eye doctor more than the dentist, but that's another story for another day, maybe.
Y- Your favorite food: I'd echo Angie on the "health nut" bit, cause it's true, but I'm going with Mac 'n Cheese. I could eat it every day!
Z- Zodiac Sign: Aries
B- Beach or Lake: Beach
C- Cake or Pie? Pie
D- Drink of Choice: Dr. Pepper
E- Essential Item you use every day: underwear (and see below... no pun intended.)
F- Favorite Color: Pink! Sometimes blue...
G- Gummy bears or Worms: Definitely worms
H- Hometown: Highlands Ranch, CO
I- Indulgence: Chocolate in most forms: milk, cookies, ice cream, bar, etc.
J- January or February: February, I guess. No particular reason, though.
K- Kids & Names: We want three, but I'll need to have 4 to use the names I've picked out!
L- Life is Incomplete without: Love
M- Marriage Date: September 29th, 2007... but we're still Newlyweds if you ask us!
N- Number of Siblings- Two older sisters: Angie & Amy
O- Oranges or apples: Apples, sliced with caramel, please!
P- Phobias: Honestly? ...being shot. I think it's from watching too much Law & Order or Cops or something. I don't even live in the ghetto!
Q- Fave Quote: If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.
R- Reason to Smile: Waking up every day to John's face :)
S- Season: Fall, it's just so... perfect.
T- Tag 3 or 4 people: Molly, John, Mom... not sure of anyone else who reads this thing.
U- Unknown fact about me: I coordinate my underwear to my outfit, most days. I contemplated sharing that! Then again I almost did a whole post on this... Wow, that's a lot of information on me.
V- Vegetable you don't like: Most, actually: tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, peppers, and even some fruits. What can I say, I'm a meat 'n potatoes kinda girl.
W- Worst Habit: I'm always late. Always.
X- Xrays: I've had x-rays on my teeth, chest, abdomen and... eyes? Well, they took a picture of them today. Probably doesn't count as an x-ray, but wasn't too fun, either! I think I actually dislike the eye doctor more than the dentist, but that's another story for another day, maybe.
Y- Your favorite food: I'd echo Angie on the "health nut" bit, cause it's true, but I'm going with Mac 'n Cheese. I could eat it every day!
Z- Zodiac Sign: Aries
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Thanks for the weather
I woke up late this morning--if it had been a workday, that is. I loved sleeping through the alarm (oh wait, that isn't new...) and snuggling in the warm covers with my hubby. He LOVES to sleep with the windows open on frosty night such as these, so I oblige. After all, I get to snuggle him a little closer when it's oh-so-cold. He's a heater when he sleeps!
So as the sun started to come up, we figured we should too. Or at least John, did. He went to the window and blurted, "Whoa! It's brr cold out!" I wasn't surprised, now shivering since he opened the covers, but deep down inside, I was really glad. I knew the cold was coming (he was out of town the last few days, which means he doesn't watch the local weather forecast), and I was sure happy about it! Who wouldn't love a cold Saturday inside trying to stay cozy together! Whether I got anything done around the house today--which I did--or watched other people spruce up their housese on HGTV, I was happy to stay in.
Most of my happiness comes from the wet and frost that Mother Nature brought today. John owns a local lawn care business, and is usually gone for most of Saturday mowing lawns around town. He loves his customers, and is great at how he tends their lawns, but it makes quality and productive time together a bit hard. Sometimes I help him, sometimes I stay home and do chores and run errands. So today, I was just happy to be with John. He'll be going out of town tomorrow morning (just for a two day trip), and I'll try again to be productive on another cold Colorado day. So thanks, Mother Nature. I for one appreciated the frost today!!
So as the sun started to come up, we figured we should too. Or at least John, did. He went to the window and blurted, "Whoa! It's brr cold out!" I wasn't surprised, now shivering since he opened the covers, but deep down inside, I was really glad. I knew the cold was coming (he was out of town the last few days, which means he doesn't watch the local weather forecast), and I was sure happy about it! Who wouldn't love a cold Saturday inside trying to stay cozy together! Whether I got anything done around the house today--which I did--or watched other people spruce up their housese on HGTV, I was happy to stay in.
Most of my happiness comes from the wet and frost that Mother Nature brought today. John owns a local lawn care business, and is usually gone for most of Saturday mowing lawns around town. He loves his customers, and is great at how he tends their lawns, but it makes quality and productive time together a bit hard. Sometimes I help him, sometimes I stay home and do chores and run errands. So today, I was just happy to be with John. He'll be going out of town tomorrow morning (just for a two day trip), and I'll try again to be productive on another cold Colorado day. So thanks, Mother Nature. I for one appreciated the frost today!!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Accountability is key
So... I needed a little accountability to help me stay (who am I kidding?) GET into shape, and my sister stepped up to the plate. Thanks Ame! We went to one of her friend's houses tonight to get weighed, measured, stuff our faces (as our "Last Supper") and take "before" pictures. Humiliating? Slightly. Motivating? YOU BET!! We all put a little cash into the pot, and the curvy chica who loses the most inches and percentage of pounds wins the jackpot. I confidently stated that I plan on using my winnings to buy new "skinny girl" clothes.
Now, I'm realistic enough to know that I won't ever be skinny... that wouldn't even be healthy. BUT, I also recognize that I could stand to shed a few pounds. I have mentioned that I'd like to be able to put my wedding dress on every anniversary. Well, we're less than two months from our 1st, and that's just before the end of this FAT GIRL contest. Bring it on, fatties!!! :)
I jest, but I'm totally serious about getting into shape. I want my clothes to fit better. I want to like the girl I see in the mirror. I want to see the same body that John loves... I want to love it too. I never used to care about the number on the scale, until the scale started being mean! Honestly, my clothes don't fit like they used to, and that has always been my measurement. So, it's time to trim down. Let's get those khaki capris that are in the bottom of my dresser drawer back around these hips!! They are the only item of clothing I've held onto for WHEN I can fit into them again. Besides, if John and I intend to start a family soon--which we do--I need and (desparately) want to be in good shape for that. I never want to be that girl that you're never really quite sure if she's pregnant or fat. For real. Now, I don't expect to have the basketball belly, but I can try my best, right?
So... wish me luck, cheer me on, and by all means, feel free to keep me accountable. Here are my initial goals and strategies:
* No pop (soda, Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Dr. Pepper (ouch!), etc.)
* Less red meat
* Three meals a day
* Pump the water (I don't like drinking water!)
* LIMIT the fast food (if at all... but baby steps)
* No chips or chocolate (okay, a tiny bit of chocolate, when needed!)
* No eating after 8:00pm
If you care, I'll update my progress. Our "Fat Girl Club" will have our own blogging network (including numbers, if you dare!) that is private. But sharing with you (by the way... who are you?) might be that extra bit of motivation and accountability that I need. Here we go!!!
Now, I'm realistic enough to know that I won't ever be skinny... that wouldn't even be healthy. BUT, I also recognize that I could stand to shed a few pounds. I have mentioned that I'd like to be able to put my wedding dress on every anniversary. Well, we're less than two months from our 1st, and that's just before the end of this FAT GIRL contest. Bring it on, fatties!!! :)
I jest, but I'm totally serious about getting into shape. I want my clothes to fit better. I want to like the girl I see in the mirror. I want to see the same body that John loves... I want to love it too. I never used to care about the number on the scale, until the scale started being mean! Honestly, my clothes don't fit like they used to, and that has always been my measurement. So, it's time to trim down. Let's get those khaki capris that are in the bottom of my dresser drawer back around these hips!! They are the only item of clothing I've held onto for WHEN I can fit into them again. Besides, if John and I intend to start a family soon--which we do--I need and (desparately) want to be in good shape for that. I never want to be that girl that you're never really quite sure if she's pregnant or fat. For real. Now, I don't expect to have the basketball belly, but I can try my best, right?
So... wish me luck, cheer me on, and by all means, feel free to keep me accountable. Here are my initial goals and strategies:
* No pop (soda, Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Dr. Pepper (ouch!), etc.)
* Less red meat
* Three meals a day
* Pump the water (I don't like drinking water!)
* LIMIT the fast food (if at all... but baby steps)
* No chips or chocolate (okay, a tiny bit of chocolate, when needed!)
* No eating after 8:00pm
If you care, I'll update my progress. Our "Fat Girl Club" will have our own blogging network (including numbers, if you dare!) that is private. But sharing with you (by the way... who are you?) might be that extra bit of motivation and accountability that I need. Here we go!!!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
I needed a wake-up call
From Natalie Grant (to my heart): This song really represents where I've been, and it also makes me realize that I never want to get to the place where I stop waking up to something new. I hope this song encourages others to wake up-maybe to some things kept silent, dreams unfulfilled, fears, insecurities, or something someone has been shutting out, pretending it doesn't exist. It's okay to wake up to those things and let our God turn them into good.
AWAKEN
Sometimes I feel like I'm just existing
I'm not really living
I'm only watching the time slip away
I've forgotten who I am in you
I'm not who I'm meant to be
I'm drifting farther away from my destiny
Awaken my heart, awaken my soul
Awaken your power and take control
Awaken the passion to live for you, Lord
Awaken me
My soul is longing, my heart is searching
I'm desperate for you to move
Give me a hunger, pull me closer
I'm crying out to you
Awaken my heart, awaken my soul
Awaken your power and take control
Awaken the passion to live for you, Lord
Open my eyes so I can see your presence
Dwelling inside
Wake me up, cause I can't live another minute
If I'm not shining your light
Awaken my heart, awaken my soul
Awaken the passion in me
Lord, awaken me to live my destiny
Lord, awaken me and shine your light through me
Lord, awaken me to live my destiny
Lord, awaken me and shine your light through me
Awaken my heart, awaken my soul
Awaken your power and take control
Awaken the passion to live for you, to live for you
Wake me up Lord, give me the passion, Jesus
I want to live for you
AWAKEN
Sometimes I feel like I'm just existing
I'm not really living
I'm only watching the time slip away
I've forgotten who I am in you
I'm not who I'm meant to be
I'm drifting farther away from my destiny
Awaken my heart, awaken my soul
Awaken your power and take control
Awaken the passion to live for you, Lord
Awaken me
My soul is longing, my heart is searching
I'm desperate for you to move
Give me a hunger, pull me closer
I'm crying out to you
Awaken my heart, awaken my soul
Awaken your power and take control
Awaken the passion to live for you, Lord
Open my eyes so I can see your presence
Dwelling inside
Wake me up, cause I can't live another minute
If I'm not shining your light
Awaken my heart, awaken my soul
Awaken the passion in me
Lord, awaken me to live my destiny
Lord, awaken me and shine your light through me
Lord, awaken me to live my destiny
Lord, awaken me and shine your light through me
Awaken my heart, awaken my soul
Awaken your power and take control
Awaken the passion to live for you, to live for you
Wake me up Lord, give me the passion, Jesus
I want to live for you
Somehow, it got worse.
Now back to the negative column...
We made this trip to Illinois for John's Grandmother's burial. She passed away on July 14, 2008 at the age of 90. Fortunately, John was able to visit her out in Maryland a few years ago while on a business trip. His Aunt and Uncle, whom she had lived with for the better part of 14 years, held a funeral out in Maryland last week. Then, they brought her remains to Illinois so she could be buried next to her husband, whom died in 1969.
John's sister Becky and family are in Illinois, his sister Ruth and husband drove in from Iowa, as did his cousin and family. His cousin is a Methodist Minister, and presided over the service. It was beautiful and very touching. I learned more about his family, and this wonderful woman whom I didn't get the honor to meet. While there, I was also able to see his mom's grave, and read her headstone: Loving Mother and Teacher.
During the service, another unfortunate event took place. While we were seated at the grave, praying and mourning, someone opened John's cousin's car and took his wife's purse. Right there at the cemetery!! Although we were facing the road, trees and bushes blocked our view of their car, so no one saw or heard it happen. The police came, and she cancelled all her cards immediately. Luckily too, because they had already tried gassing up their car on her expense! She handled it much better than I would, and said, "it's just stuff." True, but still unfair.
Well, we had a lovely reception at Becky's home, sharing pictures and stories of Grandma. She was a beautiful woman, inside as much as out. She was said to have always prayed for her grandchildren, and that they might know the Lord.
While there is more to be said about the adventure to Illinois this past week, I'll end with this:
Before John's Grandma passed, she wrote a passage saying that on the day of her death, she will be met by her husband, two daughters and three sisters, and they will take her to meet her Maker. What a beautiful reunion!!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
An unfortunate gathering... and events
I'm writing to you from a hotel room in Illinois, and happy to have made it here. Our flight out of Denver was supposed to leave at 12:41pm yesterday. When we were still sitting at the gate at 1:01pm, we knew something had to be wrong. They already shut the cabin door, so what were we waiting for? A voice came over the speaker telling us that the altimeter was broken, and they had called a mechanic. This piece of machinery tells the pilot the distance to the ground--pretty important thing to have working. So yes, I'll wait for it to be fixed, thank you.
Not too much longer, we were ship shape and ready to go to the runway. So we did, and waited... and waited, and waited (no pun intended, you'll see). Now, another voice came on to tell us that we were headed back to the gate, as the person who signs off on the flight after recording the weight (used in determining take-off speed and timing, etc.) had gone home for the day without communicating this important piece of data. Also, we had burned through all of our taxing fuel and some of the in-flight fuel. He joked that we should go re-fuel, unless we wanted to land in Oakland instead of San Francisco. Um, neither, actually... we're headed to Chicago!?!? Everyone looked around, a bit more worried at this point. After hearing us chatter, rather than snicker at his "joke", he came back on to say, "Oh, apparently you're headed to Chicago... that would explain why you didn't laugh at my Oakland joke, ha ha!" (No one laughed). He continued, "Don't worry, I'm not the pilot! We'll be getting out of here soon, folks." [Insert applause, here.]
So after sitting on the ground in Denver for 2+ hours more than we anticipated, we finally took off and headed to the Windy City.
As we landed in Chicago, we sat on the Tarmac for 20 minutes before moving to the gate. Side note: this flight was making a connection in Chicago for Amsterdam, those people are panicked at this point. So we make it to the gate, and a lady comes on to tell us the next nugget of informaiton. She starts off by saying, "This flight is cursed..." Uh, great. She said that the jetway is broken, and for safety reasons, they've called in a mechanic to get it fixed. Gee, you think? Also, remember those folks heading to Amsterdam? I hope they have large bladders, because the flight is (thankfully) waiting for them at the gate, and I don't think they'll have time to pass go, let alone stop at the restroom. She asked that anyone with a little more time wait to de-board and let those who are making a connection get off first. Done. I got farther in my book, goofed around with my hubby more, and was happier for it.
So, the plane finally emptied, and we reached our destination. But wait...
John and I picked up our rental car, loaded the luggage, and were headed down I-88 in Chicago. There is construction for the length of the highway (think T-Rex in Denver) and no place to pull off, should you need to. Which we did. As we sped down the interstate, John pointed out that the hood of the car was bouncing. Excuse me? Bouncing? Yes, bouncing. It was not latched, and we're going about 70mph. My mind went to the scene in Tommy Boy when their hood flips up on the highway... So of course I started quoting that for John. What else?
We finally found our exit, pulled into a parking lot, and John pushed the hood down until it clicked. Yikes. He called the car rental place to let them know about what happened. While we didn't get hurt, we could have if it had flipped up on us while going down the highway. He's rented from them several times and never had it happen, he just wanted to let them know about it. Good thing he did, because they comped us a day's rental. Yea! One point in the positive column!!
More to come...
Friday, July 11, 2008
Not-so-Unbreakable
So... We got a new puppy in February. We had gone to the Boulder Humane Society looking for a kitten; we wanted a brother/sister for Gus:
...and for me to have a kitten of my own (John has had Gus longer than he's known me.) Somehow, we left there with this:
As you can tell, he's all dog. He's a labrador retriever mixed with border collie (we believe). He's 2 1/2, house trained, full of energy, and quite the lover. He flips (almost literally) when he sees his leash, and thinks car rides are the next best thing to the leash. He LOVES riding in the car.
Well, when we brought him home, we apparently didn't "doggie-proof" our house well enough. He was very nosey as to what we had thrown in the trash, so we now have a covered trash can. And, we soon found that he showed his affection to John by chewing up all of HIS things: eye glasses, video games, DVD's, etc. Oh, he chewed one book of mine, one.
John would get so mad about this, but nothing compared to the day we came downstairs to find a particular DVD on the family room floor. As I looked down at the shards of plastic and destroyed DVD case, I just had to laugh. The movie he had chosen this time was: Unbreakable (starring Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson) C'mon, unbreakable? Apparently not!! I was cracking up (Ha!); John wasn't.
The End.
...and for me to have a kitten of my own (John has had Gus longer than he's known me.) Somehow, we left there with this:
As you can tell, he's all dog. He's a labrador retriever mixed with border collie (we believe). He's 2 1/2, house trained, full of energy, and quite the lover. He flips (almost literally) when he sees his leash, and thinks car rides are the next best thing to the leash. He LOVES riding in the car.
Well, when we brought him home, we apparently didn't "doggie-proof" our house well enough. He was very nosey as to what we had thrown in the trash, so we now have a covered trash can. And, we soon found that he showed his affection to John by chewing up all of HIS things: eye glasses, video games, DVD's, etc. Oh, he chewed one book of mine, one.
John would get so mad about this, but nothing compared to the day we came downstairs to find a particular DVD on the family room floor. As I looked down at the shards of plastic and destroyed DVD case, I just had to laugh. The movie he had chosen this time was: Unbreakable (starring Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson) C'mon, unbreakable? Apparently not!! I was cracking up (Ha!); John wasn't.
The End.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Books I'm reading
While the list of books I'm reading is a bit longer than I intended, I realized that I have a bookmark in several books on my dresser. So, I am a little ways through each of them (and maybe a couple more). It just depends on how much time I get to sit and read. Sometimes it's not on the comfy sofa I'd prefer, but by small travel reading light in bed while John sleeps next to me... or (more often than not) in that tiny room where the shower is--YES! I read on the toilet! HA!
Anyway, I was going to add one more book that my sisters got me (and read more of than I) for my bachelorette party... but I didn't want to embarrass them. Or me.
Happy reading!!
Anyway, I was going to add one more book that my sisters got me (and read more of than I) for my bachelorette party... but I didn't want to embarrass them. Or me.
Happy reading!!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Our cat's a squirrel!!
Ohhh, how I wish I were kidding. So, here's the story...
John took our cat (we'll call him "GTC" to protect his identity) to the groomers to get his claws cut (because we'd prefer to skip the trip to the ER if we did it ourselves) and to have the clumps of matted fur cut out/shaved. The woman at the groomers asked John if he wanted her to comb them out, but he explained that it would be a disaster if she tried. Somewhere along the way, she decided that he would "look silly" with just his rump and thighs shaved (note: they've done this many a time)... So (as if this makes sense to anyone else!) she shaved him--COMPLETELY!!! From NECK to TAIL. WHAT!?!?! (And she didn't even do a very good job of it, either!)
My husband sent me pictures of our no-longer-long-haired-feline while I was at work Friday...and I cried. Our beautiful cat is now shaved, ashamed, and a very sad sight. I am appalled that the groomer made this decision herself, and I will not take my business there again.
We paid $70 (no tip) for them to do this to our cat. $70. If I wanted him shaved (which we didn't!!) I would have done it myself. I will be going by tomorrow night to have a conversation with the owner, and I hope to get my money back as well. I don't feel that we should have to pay for that. My poor kitty (Angie, stop laughing) is not the same. Not only does he look like a rat, he's skittish, cold, and embarrassed. Who can blame him? I feel so bad for my baby, I've been spoiling him as much as I can.
Oh, here are pictures: Before & After "The Haircut"
John took our cat (we'll call him "GTC" to protect his identity) to the groomers to get his claws cut (because we'd prefer to skip the trip to the ER if we did it ourselves) and to have the clumps of matted fur cut out/shaved. The woman at the groomers asked John if he wanted her to comb them out, but he explained that it would be a disaster if she tried. Somewhere along the way, she decided that he would "look silly" with just his rump and thighs shaved (note: they've done this many a time)... So (as if this makes sense to anyone else!) she shaved him--COMPLETELY!!! From NECK to TAIL. WHAT!?!?! (And she didn't even do a very good job of it, either!)
My husband sent me pictures of our no-longer-long-haired-feline while I was at work Friday...and I cried. Our beautiful cat is now shaved, ashamed, and a very sad sight. I am appalled that the groomer made this decision herself, and I will not take my business there again.
We paid $70 (no tip) for them to do this to our cat. $70. If I wanted him shaved (which we didn't!!) I would have done it myself. I will be going by tomorrow night to have a conversation with the owner, and I hope to get my money back as well. I don't feel that we should have to pay for that. My poor kitty (Angie, stop laughing) is not the same. Not only does he look like a rat, he's skittish, cold, and embarrassed. Who can blame him? I feel so bad for my baby, I've been spoiling him as much as I can.
Oh, here are pictures: Before & After "The Haircut"
BEFORE
Isn't he handsome!?!
I love(d) that furry tummy.
...and AFTER
Does anyone else think he looks mad?
Hey I'm not the one that did this to you!!
I know Gussers, it's humiliating. I still love you.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Smoke 'n fries
So... I had Arby's for lunch, and the sandwich was fantastic. They got my drink order wrong, and the fries weren't very hot.
But, that's not the worst part about the trip. As I was pulling up to order, an employee walked out the door right by my car, then walked around the building and lit up a cigarette. I didn't smell it until I had to pull around the building (and stop) and she was RIGHT there. I rolled up my window and gave her a dirty look while doing so. I HATE the smell of smoke. She was standing right next to the drive-up lane! When I pulled up to the window, I handed the guy my card and said, "Quick question for ya... Is your staff supposed to stand in the drive-up lane to take their smoke breaks?" He repeated my question as if I'd just presented him with a complicated physics equation, and said, "Well, no. Where was this person?" I said, "Right behind the building, and I rolled up my window since I was stopped there and didn't want to smell the smoke right before I eat my lunch." He said he could understand that, asked male/female (female) and said that he'd report it to the manager. I thanked him, he smiled (a cheesy/creepy smile as if I was satisfied now) and I drove away.
As I pulled into work, I tasted my Dr. Pepper, which was actually Diet Coke. Strike two.
Then, I unloaded my lunch on my desk, and bit into a cold curly fry. Strike three.
Bummer. At least the sandwich was yummy!
But, that's not the worst part about the trip. As I was pulling up to order, an employee walked out the door right by my car, then walked around the building and lit up a cigarette. I didn't smell it until I had to pull around the building (and stop) and she was RIGHT there. I rolled up my window and gave her a dirty look while doing so. I HATE the smell of smoke. She was standing right next to the drive-up lane! When I pulled up to the window, I handed the guy my card and said, "Quick question for ya... Is your staff supposed to stand in the drive-up lane to take their smoke breaks?" He repeated my question as if I'd just presented him with a complicated physics equation, and said, "Well, no. Where was this person?" I said, "Right behind the building, and I rolled up my window since I was stopped there and didn't want to smell the smoke right before I eat my lunch." He said he could understand that, asked male/female (female) and said that he'd report it to the manager. I thanked him, he smiled (a cheesy/creepy smile as if I was satisfied now) and I drove away.
As I pulled into work, I tasted my Dr. Pepper, which was actually Diet Coke. Strike two.
Then, I unloaded my lunch on my desk, and bit into a cold curly fry. Strike three.
Bummer. At least the sandwich was yummy!
Ode to the Birthday Girl
J is for just plain fun!
E is for enjoy (cause I enjoy her!!)
E is for enthusiasm
P is for "pulling a jeepy"
Y is for youthful
S is for sister
H is for hilarious!
A is for awesome (no you're awesome!)
N is for nutty
E is for entertaining
E is for exciting
P is for Practically perfect in every way (Mary Poppins?)
Y is for your local _____ lady
E is for enjoy (cause I enjoy her!!)
E is for enthusiasm
P is for "pulling a jeepy"
Y is for youthful
S is for sister
H is for hilarious!
A is for awesome (no you're awesome!)
N is for nutty
E is for entertaining
E is for exciting
P is for Practically perfect in every way (Mary Poppins?)
Y is for your local _____ lady
(scrapbooking, garage saleing, etc. She can do it all, folks!)
L is for laughter
U is for uppity (up beat?)
L is for laughter
U is for uppity (up beat?)
Well, there you have it Ang, my tribute. I hope your birthday's GREAT!!!
Monday, June 2, 2008
I'd rather be...
So... you know those license plate holders, or bumper stickers that announce where the driver of the car would rather be, or what they'd rather be doing...?
My question to you is: what would yours say?
Having just come back from an Orlando vacation, one might think that I don't have the right to want to be anywhere else. There are so many people that don't have time (or take the time) for regular vacations, so I should be satified that I've had TWO in the past year... right? Well, too bad. I'd still rather be somewhere else than sitting at this desk and this computer right now.
I'd rather be...
- sitting at home with my hubby doing nothing at all
- playing out in the back yard with my dog, enjoying the sunshine
- stopping by a lemonade stand (do kids still do those?) and paying more than the posted price, just to see the kid's smile
- taking all three of my nieces the park
- sitting on a patio somewhere drinking iced tea and reading
- lost somewhere in the Rocky Mountains with a blanket, umbrella and my Bible
- hanging out with my mom
- hanging out with my sisters (together or one-on-one)
- seeing a new movie in the middle of the day
- at a beach with my hubby, digging our toes in the sand and begging him to ride the waves with me
Yeah, so I think that this work thing is overrated (although the income is a nice perk), and I'd rather be a stay-at-home wife... too bad John's not on board with that. :)
My question to you is: what would yours say?
Having just come back from an Orlando vacation, one might think that I don't have the right to want to be anywhere else. There are so many people that don't have time (or take the time) for regular vacations, so I should be satified that I've had TWO in the past year... right? Well, too bad. I'd still rather be somewhere else than sitting at this desk and this computer right now.
I'd rather be...
- sitting at home with my hubby doing nothing at all
- playing out in the back yard with my dog, enjoying the sunshine
- stopping by a lemonade stand (do kids still do those?) and paying more than the posted price, just to see the kid's smile
- taking all three of my nieces the park
- sitting on a patio somewhere drinking iced tea and reading
- lost somewhere in the Rocky Mountains with a blanket, umbrella and my Bible
- hanging out with my mom
- hanging out with my sisters (together or one-on-one)
- seeing a new movie in the middle of the day
- at a beach with my hubby, digging our toes in the sand and begging him to ride the waves with me
Yeah, so I think that this work thing is overrated (although the income is a nice perk), and I'd rather be a stay-at-home wife... too bad John's not on board with that. :)
Monday, April 21, 2008
Working from Home
Our office is closed today. To quote the email I received this morning:
Our building is shedding its winter coat. Over the weekend, a few of the glass panels have been blown off the outside of building and a few others look like they my come down with an intense wind. As a result, our building is closed for repair.
Luckily (I guess), I brought my laptop home with me when we left early on Friday. Oh, we all left the office on Friday about 2 1/2 hours early due to a power outage that affected our whole area. Lights on Colorado Blvd were out, and while we waited for news as to how to respond, we watched out the window as cars tried to navigate the intersections (very entertaining). There was also some commotion at Barnes & Noble as 6 firetrucks pulled up. We never found out what that was about, nor were we close enough to really get a good look at the firemen. Bummer.
So, I've been home all day... "working". Apparently this takes more discipline than I'm capable of. HGTV has been on all day, but my brain hasn't. My computer has been on, and I've only accomplished a fraction of what I thought I would by this time. Currently, I have a bowl of left-over Mac 'n Cheese on the table, reheated and ready to eat... Our cute dog is sitting at my feet, sighing that I haven't taken him outside to play (he's been out, just not playing with me); and I'm watching out the window for the expected plumber to come fix our pipes in the basement (another story for another time, if you're really bored.) So while I've set up my blog, gone through the mail, and taken my sweet time getting ready today (oh, and I snuck in a chapter of my new Jodi Picoult book)... I haven't really worked. Let's just hope my boss doesn't stumble across this post!
Oh great, I just got this email: FYI...the office has re-opened.
Our building is shedding its winter coat. Over the weekend, a few of the glass panels have been blown off the outside of building and a few others look like they my come down with an intense wind. As a result, our building is closed for repair.
Luckily (I guess), I brought my laptop home with me when we left early on Friday. Oh, we all left the office on Friday about 2 1/2 hours early due to a power outage that affected our whole area. Lights on Colorado Blvd were out, and while we waited for news as to how to respond, we watched out the window as cars tried to navigate the intersections (very entertaining). There was also some commotion at Barnes & Noble as 6 firetrucks pulled up. We never found out what that was about, nor were we close enough to really get a good look at the firemen. Bummer.
So, I've been home all day... "working". Apparently this takes more discipline than I'm capable of. HGTV has been on all day, but my brain hasn't. My computer has been on, and I've only accomplished a fraction of what I thought I would by this time. Currently, I have a bowl of left-over Mac 'n Cheese on the table, reheated and ready to eat... Our cute dog is sitting at my feet, sighing that I haven't taken him outside to play (he's been out, just not playing with me); and I'm watching out the window for the expected plumber to come fix our pipes in the basement (another story for another time, if you're really bored.) So while I've set up my blog, gone through the mail, and taken my sweet time getting ready today (oh, and I snuck in a chapter of my new Jodi Picoult book)... I haven't really worked. Let's just hope my boss doesn't stumble across this post!
Oh great, I just got this email: FYI...the office has re-opened.
Do you think they expect us to rush right in? I hope not.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
About me... here goes...
Since I'm not really sure what one Blogs about... I figured I'd start with this (stole it from another blog). Happy reading!!
What time did you get up this morning? About 8:30... I loved it!!
Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds! A girl's best friend, right?
Last movie you saw in the theater? 27 Dresses
What is your favorite TV show? Law and Order SVU, Grey's Anatomy, The Office, ANTM
What did you eat for Breakfast? John made pancakes and bacon today! YUM!!
What is your middle name? Olson, now. It was Suzanne before, but I didn't want my initials to spell "ASS" --can you blame me? :)
What food do you dislike? Most vegetables. :)
What is your favorite CD at the moment? Chris Cagle's newest--just saw him in concert
What kind of car do you drive? Ford Escape
Favorite sandwich? Chicken Salad Sandwich, I guess
What characteristics do you despise? Arrogance, deceitfulness
Favorite item of clothing? Jeans
If you could go anywhere in the world for a vacation, where would you go? Back to Kauai!! Or Italy, I'd love to tour Rome.
What color is your bathroom? Blue
Favorite brand of clothing? Old Navy or Gap
Where would you retire? I'm here, Colorado
Most memorable birthday? I didn't have my Sweet 16, so probably my 24th--my name was in lights at Coors Field, and I had a great day with John and my family.
Favorite sport to watch? Football, any team
When is your birthday? April 15th
Are you a morning or a night person? Total night owl! I don't do mornings...
What is your shoe size? 7 1/2
What did you want to be when you were little? A teacher
What are you today? Wife and Benefits Analyst for a Consulting company
What is your favorite candy? I'm not one to turn down candy... Red Vines, Butterfinger, M&M's...
Your favorite flower? Roses and Tulips
What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? I leave for Disney World May 20th!! What are you listening to right now? TV
What was the last thing you ate? Dinner, we heated up pizza
Do you wish on stars? Sure!
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Magenta
What is your pet peeve? Turn signals: when people DON'T use them or leave them on! Bad drivers in general really get on my nerves. Don't you have to take a test to drive these days, how do so many people pass when they drive so terribly!??!
Last person you spoke to on the phone? My mom
Favorite soft drink? Dr. Pepper
Favorite restaurant? Red Robin or Qdoba
Hair Color? Light Brown/Blonde-ish
Favorite day of the year? Christmas
What was your favorite toy as a child? Barbies
Summer or winter? Summer, but really Fall (though that wasn't a choice here)
Hugs or kisses? I'm a hugger, but I do love kissing my hubby!!!
Chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate
When was the last time you cried? One night last week... John was out of town, and I don't always handle that so well. I miss him when he's not around!! :(
What is under your bed? A few sweater boxes, and usually our cat
Who is the friend you’ve had the longest? Lindsey (Johnson) Bowdey
What did you do last night? Took a shower before bed, it was wonderful
Favorite smell? John's neck right after he puts on cologne; and the rain
What are you afraid of? Call me crazy, but I have an odd fear of being shot... Also, someone breaking into our house... I think I watch too much L&O
How many keys on your key ring? 4
Favorite day of the week? Saturday, sleeping in and nothin' to do (okay, that's not true, we seem to pack way too much into every day of the week,) but it's Saturday, so no work!!
How many states have you lived in? One! COLORADO! Visited a bunch, though... :)
Do you make friends easily? usually, yes
How many words did spell check have to correct? 1 (some of my abbreviations aren't real words, though)
Don't hold your breath for my next post... this will take some getting used to. But I've started, okay girls!?
What time did you get up this morning? About 8:30... I loved it!!
Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds! A girl's best friend, right?
Last movie you saw in the theater? 27 Dresses
What is your favorite TV show? Law and Order SVU, Grey's Anatomy, The Office, ANTM
What did you eat for Breakfast? John made pancakes and bacon today! YUM!!
What is your middle name? Olson, now. It was Suzanne before, but I didn't want my initials to spell "ASS" --can you blame me? :)
What food do you dislike? Most vegetables. :)
What is your favorite CD at the moment? Chris Cagle's newest--just saw him in concert
What kind of car do you drive? Ford Escape
Favorite sandwich? Chicken Salad Sandwich, I guess
What characteristics do you despise? Arrogance, deceitfulness
Favorite item of clothing? Jeans
If you could go anywhere in the world for a vacation, where would you go? Back to Kauai!! Or Italy, I'd love to tour Rome.
What color is your bathroom? Blue
Favorite brand of clothing? Old Navy or Gap
Where would you retire? I'm here, Colorado
Most memorable birthday? I didn't have my Sweet 16, so probably my 24th--my name was in lights at Coors Field, and I had a great day with John and my family.
Favorite sport to watch? Football, any team
When is your birthday? April 15th
Are you a morning or a night person? Total night owl! I don't do mornings...
What is your shoe size? 7 1/2
What did you want to be when you were little? A teacher
What are you today? Wife and Benefits Analyst for a Consulting company
What is your favorite candy? I'm not one to turn down candy... Red Vines, Butterfinger, M&M's...
Your favorite flower? Roses and Tulips
What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? I leave for Disney World May 20th!! What are you listening to right now? TV
What was the last thing you ate? Dinner, we heated up pizza
Do you wish on stars? Sure!
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Magenta
What is your pet peeve? Turn signals: when people DON'T use them or leave them on! Bad drivers in general really get on my nerves. Don't you have to take a test to drive these days, how do so many people pass when they drive so terribly!??!
Last person you spoke to on the phone? My mom
Favorite soft drink? Dr. Pepper
Favorite restaurant? Red Robin or Qdoba
Hair Color? Light Brown/Blonde-ish
Favorite day of the year? Christmas
What was your favorite toy as a child? Barbies
Summer or winter? Summer, but really Fall (though that wasn't a choice here)
Hugs or kisses? I'm a hugger, but I do love kissing my hubby!!!
Chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate
When was the last time you cried? One night last week... John was out of town, and I don't always handle that so well. I miss him when he's not around!! :(
What is under your bed? A few sweater boxes, and usually our cat
Who is the friend you’ve had the longest? Lindsey (Johnson) Bowdey
What did you do last night? Took a shower before bed, it was wonderful
Favorite smell? John's neck right after he puts on cologne; and the rain
What are you afraid of? Call me crazy, but I have an odd fear of being shot... Also, someone breaking into our house... I think I watch too much L&O
How many keys on your key ring? 4
Favorite day of the week? Saturday, sleeping in and nothin' to do (okay, that's not true, we seem to pack way too much into every day of the week,) but it's Saturday, so no work!!
How many states have you lived in? One! COLORADO! Visited a bunch, though... :)
Do you make friends easily? usually, yes
How many words did spell check have to correct? 1 (some of my abbreviations aren't real words, though)
Don't hold your breath for my next post... this will take some getting used to. But I've started, okay girls!?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)