It's been a great day, not nearly as much rain as predicted, but you can feel the cold moving in quite rapidly. The very strong wind feels as if it's straight off the North Pole! If this keeps up, England may seem absolutely tepid compared to what is going on here.
I just had some great Cuban food with my son and one of his friends. I'd planned to stay in and clean the apartment but accepted their invitation instead. (Not exactly a tough choice.) It was a very nice evening but now I really have to get down to the business of deciding what I'm going to take with me.
I've got stuff hanging all around the apartment but keep wavering back and forth and you'd think I would know by now. Decisions! Decisions!
Hopefully, my next few postings will be more interesting but I don't advise holding your breath. I'm so scattered right now that I can't concentrate.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
No Place Like Home
Boy, there's nothing that will kill your excitement more than spending a night in McRae. Or at least it could if you let it. Glad I was only there less than 24 hours or some of that negativity might rub off on me!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Welcome Home
Glad you're back and feeling better, Thirtysomething. I have to head down to McRae tomorrow to take care of some business and get my hair done before my trip. I have to wonder just how much more excited I can get!
I'm Baaack
Well, the 24 hour sabbatical is almost over. I'm back home, having spent the night at a Holiday Inn Express about an hour from here. I did get to read several junk magazines, eat what and when I wanted to, and do a little outlet window shopping.
The sleep I was hoping to get unfortunately did not happen because I forgot to pack that most useful item when sleeping away from home...ear plugs. There was construction going on next door, so napping when I arrived yesterday did not happen. The construction workers are a rather ambitious bunch, starting back up again this morning at the crack of dawn with the jackhammer. Also, believe it or not, there was a rather rowdy group of educators having a conference. I suppose they are so used to speaking loudly over students that they can't tone down that volume when going back to their respective hotel rooms. Oh, well. I can't complain, because I did get my break and was able to have some solitude and just relax a little. I realized that I worry wayyy too much. It was so difficult for me to calm down and just focus on one thing, which is not good. I'm striving to improve that.
Well, I hear the troops coming in from picking Roo up at preschool. Man (or woman) your stations, everyone!
The sleep I was hoping to get unfortunately did not happen because I forgot to pack that most useful item when sleeping away from home...ear plugs. There was construction going on next door, so napping when I arrived yesterday did not happen. The construction workers are a rather ambitious bunch, starting back up again this morning at the crack of dawn with the jackhammer. Also, believe it or not, there was a rather rowdy group of educators having a conference. I suppose they are so used to speaking loudly over students that they can't tone down that volume when going back to their respective hotel rooms. Oh, well. I can't complain, because I did get my break and was able to have some solitude and just relax a little. I realized that I worry wayyy too much. It was so difficult for me to calm down and just focus on one thing, which is not good. I'm striving to improve that.
Well, I hear the troops coming in from picking Roo up at preschool. Man (or woman) your stations, everyone!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Funny moments
To offset the aggravations that two-year-olds routinely inflict on their parents, we have cute moments like last evening:
DH was up in the attic changing our air filters, while both girls hovered at the bottom of the steps, saying "Be careful, Daddy! Watch your step!" Little Bit decided to take matters into her own hands and grabbed the laundry basket, sliding it next to the attic ladder. "Don't worry, Daddy! I'll catch you!" she assured him. Very sweet, and almost makes up for the meltdown she had an hour before when I informed her she couldn't have sprinkles (non-pareils we put on our ice cream) before supper.
No job news yet, although the first interview for DH went pretty well. Not sure if he'd be a good fit for the company, but who knows? Nothing on my front yet, either. *sigh*
On another front, I will have no Internet access the next two days, because I am taking a break. I announced yesterday evening to hubby that I need a break away from children, away from everything and everyone for a while. I finally realized that as long as I wait for one, I won't get it. Therefore, after I finish this, I am packing a small bag and disappearing overnight somewhere. Don't know where yet,it may be a few miles from home, may be a few hours from home. All I know is that even though we can't afford it, I can't afford not to.
DH was up in the attic changing our air filters, while both girls hovered at the bottom of the steps, saying "Be careful, Daddy! Watch your step!" Little Bit decided to take matters into her own hands and grabbed the laundry basket, sliding it next to the attic ladder. "Don't worry, Daddy! I'll catch you!" she assured him. Very sweet, and almost makes up for the meltdown she had an hour before when I informed her she couldn't have sprinkles (non-pareils we put on our ice cream) before supper.
No job news yet, although the first interview for DH went pretty well. Not sure if he'd be a good fit for the company, but who knows? Nothing on my front yet, either. *sigh*
On another front, I will have no Internet access the next two days, because I am taking a break. I announced yesterday evening to hubby that I need a break away from children, away from everything and everyone for a while. I finally realized that as long as I wait for one, I won't get it. Therefore, after I finish this, I am packing a small bag and disappearing overnight somewhere. Don't know where yet,it may be a few miles from home, may be a few hours from home. All I know is that even though we can't afford it, I can't afford not to.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Apology
Sorry if my postings have seemed a little cryptic but my finger is still quite sore and it hurts to type. If someone had told me earlier that I used my ring finger this much, I'm not sure I would have believed them. Seems every thing I do involves bumping that particular digit.
On a brighter note, having a fused joint does have some perks after all. It was "pre-set" so there's nothing left to have to pay a doctor for unless he is doling out some magic medicine that could take the pain away. Not holding my breath for that for sure!
The countdown is on. There's so much that has to wait until the last minute but I'm trying to do everything I can in advance. Getting nervous and anxious too but really looking forward to going also. Got my passport, currency, and a big bill from Dillard's so hopefully won't have to buy anything else.
Oops, forgot about that darn camera. I bought it 11 months ago but Olympus is claiming it stopped working because I dropped it and says the warranty is void! Absolutely untrue and I certainly have no intention of paying them $181 to fix it. That's almost 2/3 of the original price! You can be sure that whatever I buy, it won't be Olympus no matter how much I liked the camera itself.
Thirtysomething and hubby are still applying for jobs. Hubby has two interviews this week so keep your fingers crossed for them.
On a brighter note, having a fused joint does have some perks after all. It was "pre-set" so there's nothing left to have to pay a doctor for unless he is doling out some magic medicine that could take the pain away. Not holding my breath for that for sure!
The countdown is on. There's so much that has to wait until the last minute but I'm trying to do everything I can in advance. Getting nervous and anxious too but really looking forward to going also. Got my passport, currency, and a big bill from Dillard's so hopefully won't have to buy anything else.
Oops, forgot about that darn camera. I bought it 11 months ago but Olympus is claiming it stopped working because I dropped it and says the warranty is void! Absolutely untrue and I certainly have no intention of paying them $181 to fix it. That's almost 2/3 of the original price! You can be sure that whatever I buy, it won't be Olympus no matter how much I liked the camera itself.
Thirtysomething and hubby are still applying for jobs. Hubby has two interviews this week so keep your fingers crossed for them.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Is Nothing Sacred Anymore?
I was watching and old Tom & Jerry cartoon while eating my protein bar this morning (yes, I love those old cartoons) and George of the Jungle came on. I was thinking, "Great, I haven't seen this in ages." Then it started playing. When did George's theme song become rap? Did I sleep through something? His hair color is different too. So much for nostalgia!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Why?
I wonder why I when I lose a contact lens, it's always right after I put in a new pair. I never lose the old ones I am about to replace anyway!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Stuff
Thank heavens we had a beautiful day after all that wild weather stuff that went on yesterday afternoon and last night. Beautiful except for some very strong winds, that is. We were fortunate here in Midtown by not being hit as heavily as most areas. And if all the wind and rain didn't remind us of the tornadoes that hit downtown last year, the newscasters took every opportunity to do so over and over!
My day started early with an MRI appointment at 7:30. (Fortunately, the facility where it was scheduled was very close by.) I was asked several times if I had any drug allergies or problems with contrast dye. I said no and promptly broke out in hives when the dye was injected. It was true but I have to wonder if they believed me. They did monitor me an extra hour to be sure I was okay.
Guess it could have been worse. Actually, it did get worse. I think I broke my finger. If it is still swollen tomorrow, I suppose I will have to get it x-rayed. With that very long MRI today, I've had so many "pictures" taken that I could probably set off a Geiger counter.
My day started early with an MRI appointment at 7:30. (Fortunately, the facility where it was scheduled was very close by.) I was asked several times if I had any drug allergies or problems with contrast dye. I said no and promptly broke out in hives when the dye was injected. It was true but I have to wonder if they believed me. They did monitor me an extra hour to be sure I was okay.
Guess it could have been worse. Actually, it did get worse. I think I broke my finger. If it is still swollen tomorrow, I suppose I will have to get it x-rayed. With that very long MRI today, I've had so many "pictures" taken that I could probably set off a Geiger counter.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Curtains & Other Stuff
Thirtysomething and her family spent part of the day with me yesterday and son #2 very kindly hung curtains for me. With 10-foot ceilings, it was a bit much to handle alone but with his 6 foot plus height and my ladder, it was a breeze for him. Made the apartment look much nicer too.
The girls were good but did leave a few "souvenirs" behind. They enjoy playing on my bed, pretending to be taking a nap, with pretending being the operative word. Little Bit emptied a lot of her dad's tool kit on the bed so she could get to the pliers and screwdrivers, her "tools" as she claimed so matter-of-factly.
Only one problem: not all of it was put back. Dad checked the bed and thought he had rounded up the strays, but he missed a few. I found several screws, some wall anchors, and bits of paper and plastic before going to bed last night, but apparently saved the "best" for later. I was straightening the bed this morning when I put my knee down on the covers on the opposite side and felt a sharp crunch in my right knee. It seems Little Bit had very neatly tucked a strip of drill bits between the quilt and top sheet. No permanent effects though. The bits and I both survived with minimal damage and I did enjoy having the girls here (Mom and Dad too).
I just got back from a dinner outing with my class at Peachtree Presbyterian. This is a very friendly and active group who welcomed me warmly and I am enjoying being a part of it. Also discovered a Chinese restaurant that makes a good Margarita. Go figure!
The fact that I'm leaving for England in just two weeks hit me tonight and I realized I still have lots to do! Time to quit posting and get started.
The girls were good but did leave a few "souvenirs" behind. They enjoy playing on my bed, pretending to be taking a nap, with pretending being the operative word. Little Bit emptied a lot of her dad's tool kit on the bed so she could get to the pliers and screwdrivers, her "tools" as she claimed so matter-of-factly.
Only one problem: not all of it was put back. Dad checked the bed and thought he had rounded up the strays, but he missed a few. I found several screws, some wall anchors, and bits of paper and plastic before going to bed last night, but apparently saved the "best" for later. I was straightening the bed this morning when I put my knee down on the covers on the opposite side and felt a sharp crunch in my right knee. It seems Little Bit had very neatly tucked a strip of drill bits between the quilt and top sheet. No permanent effects though. The bits and I both survived with minimal damage and I did enjoy having the girls here (Mom and Dad too).
I just got back from a dinner outing with my class at Peachtree Presbyterian. This is a very friendly and active group who welcomed me warmly and I am enjoying being a part of it. Also discovered a Chinese restaurant that makes a good Margarita. Go figure!
The fact that I'm leaving for England in just two weeks hit me tonight and I realized I still have lots to do! Time to quit posting and get started.
Monday, February 16, 2009
My Favorite Curmudgeon
A recent email from my favorite cousin reminded me how much I enjoy my favorite curmudgeon, Andy Rooney. Like most of you, I'd heard this particular dialogue long ago but forgotten it. I was happy to read it again. Hopefully, you will enjoy it too.
"As I grow in age, I value women over 40 most of all. Here are just a few reasons why:
A woman over 40 will never wake you in the middle of the night and ask, 'What are you thinking?' She doesn't care what you think.
If a woman over 40 doesn't want to watch the game, she doesn't sit around whining about it. She does something she wants to do, and it's usually more interesting.
Women over 40 are dignified. They seldom have a screaming match with you at the opera or in the middle of an expensive restaurant. Of course, if you deserve it, they won't hesitate to shoot you if they think they can get away with it.
Older women are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it's like to be unappreciated.Women get psychic as they age. You never have to confess your sins to a woman over 40.
Once you get past a wrinkle or two, a woman over 40 is far sexier than her younger counterpart.
Older women are forthright and honest. They'll tell you right off if you are a jerk, if you are acting like one. You don't ever have to wonder where you stand with her.
Yes, we praise women over 40 for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately, it's not reciprocal.
For every stunning, smart, well-coiffed, hot woman over 40, there is a bald, paunchy relic in yellow pants making a fool of himself with some 22-year old waitress.
Ladies, I apologize.For all those men who say, 'Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?', here's an update for you. Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage. Why? Because women realize it's not worth buying an entire pig just to get a little sausage!"
If a woman over 40 doesn't want to watch the game, she doesn't sit around whining about it. She does something she wants to do, and it's usually more interesting.
Women over 40 are dignified. They seldom have a screaming match with you at the opera or in the middle of an expensive restaurant. Of course, if you deserve it, they won't hesitate to shoot you if they think they can get away with it.
Older women are generous with praise, often undeserved. They know what it's like to be unappreciated.Women get psychic as they age. You never have to confess your sins to a woman over 40.
Once you get past a wrinkle or two, a woman over 40 is far sexier than her younger counterpart.
Older women are forthright and honest. They'll tell you right off if you are a jerk, if you are acting like one. You don't ever have to wonder where you stand with her.
Yes, we praise women over 40 for a multitude of reasons. Unfortunately, it's not reciprocal.
For every stunning, smart, well-coiffed, hot woman over 40, there is a bald, paunchy relic in yellow pants making a fool of himself with some 22-year old waitress.
Ladies, I apologize.For all those men who say, 'Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?', here's an update for you. Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage. Why? Because women realize it's not worth buying an entire pig just to get a little sausage!"
Sunday, February 15, 2009
My Valentine's Day
My Valentine's Day was not quite as exciting. No one took me to Waffle House for breakfast or a candlelit dinner!
I did get to spend part of the day with my two most precious Valentines, my beautiful granddaughters, and that was a pleasurable treat in itself.
I also got a very sweet call early in the morning from someone apologizing for not being there to take me to dinner. And I got a kiss.
My favorite bartender at Gilbert's gave me a Valentine's kiss and one of my favorite servers at Flying Biscuit presented me with two really huge, juicy, chocolate-dipped strawberries so it wasn't so bad after all. As a matter of fact, it was a great day, just as all the days here have been.
I did get to spend part of the day with my two most precious Valentines, my beautiful granddaughters, and that was a pleasurable treat in itself.
I also got a very sweet call early in the morning from someone apologizing for not being there to take me to dinner. And I got a kiss.
My favorite bartender at Gilbert's gave me a Valentine's kiss and one of my favorite servers at Flying Biscuit presented me with two really huge, juicy, chocolate-dipped strawberries so it wasn't so bad after all. As a matter of fact, it was a great day, just as all the days here have been.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Starting off Valentine's Day right
Well, as a Valentine's Day treat, we took the girls to Roo's "favorite restaurant," the Waffle House. They had fun, especially sniffing the rose in the vase at our booth and pretending to sneeze. Little Bit, carnivore that she is, consumed most of her Daddy's bacon instead of her own breakfast. We've joked that for potty training, instead of the traditional M&M bribe, we should use meatballs or cold cuts.
No word on the job front yet (the Waffle House splurge was courtesy of Big Maw-Maw's Valentine's money, sent to us yesterday). I still haven't heard anything from the school system, but I know these things move slowly sometimes. The regional HR person in charge of Charlotte is supposed to be getting back to him next week about coming up and interviewing, but I'm not holding my breath on that one, either; I think they want someone with more managerial experience than he has. DH has scored some handyman jobs around the neighborhood to earn cash, and will be working at a friend's bike shop every Sunday. Actually, that's where he is now as well, earning a little moola today. We're getting by, and are so much luckier than many in similar situations. We have much to be thankful for this holiday.
Happy Valentine's Day, everyone.
No word on the job front yet (the Waffle House splurge was courtesy of Big Maw-Maw's Valentine's money, sent to us yesterday). I still haven't heard anything from the school system, but I know these things move slowly sometimes. The regional HR person in charge of Charlotte is supposed to be getting back to him next week about coming up and interviewing, but I'm not holding my breath on that one, either; I think they want someone with more managerial experience than he has. DH has scored some handyman jobs around the neighborhood to earn cash, and will be working at a friend's bike shop every Sunday. Actually, that's where he is now as well, earning a little moola today. We're getting by, and are so much luckier than many in similar situations. We have much to be thankful for this holiday.
Happy Valentine's Day, everyone.
Friday, February 13, 2009
An Unholy Alliance?
I'm not sure but I think Mr. Murphy of Murphy's Law fame must have formed an alliance with the devil. Just when I thought everything was finally running smoothly too.
The January gas bill for my house in McRae was a real shocker. It was $212.77, with $173.33 for actual gas consumption! (The rest was fees, taxes, etc.) When the place is unoccupied, I keep the thermostat on 55 so the heat should not have been running excessively. Considering I've spent 2-1/2 days there since I moved, this seems a bit high even for a cutthroat utility company.
When I finally got through to a live person this morning, she checked the bill and said my usage for January was higher than usual. As though I couldn't check that my own self! She promised to have the meter re-read but at this point, I'm certainly not expecting miracles.
I was forced to pay that $326 water bill and now this! On that topic though, the editor did run my editorial blasting the city and certain officials this week. I've already gotten phone call and email feedback, all positive.
The January gas bill for my house in McRae was a real shocker. It was $212.77, with $173.33 for actual gas consumption! (The rest was fees, taxes, etc.) When the place is unoccupied, I keep the thermostat on 55 so the heat should not have been running excessively. Considering I've spent 2-1/2 days there since I moved, this seems a bit high even for a cutthroat utility company.
When I finally got through to a live person this morning, she checked the bill and said my usage for January was higher than usual. As though I couldn't check that my own self! She promised to have the meter re-read but at this point, I'm certainly not expecting miracles.
I was forced to pay that $326 water bill and now this! On that topic though, the editor did run my editorial blasting the city and certain officials this week. I've already gotten phone call and email feedback, all positive.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
News
On a more sobering note, my favorite cousin sent out an email about my uncle tonight. Apparently, he has encountered some road blocks in his recovery and is pretty down. We ask for your continued prayers. Here is the email.
Everyone,
** is being released from the rehab center in Waycross tomorrow. They can provide services for the "acute" period of time after an injury and that is short-term. At his discharge planning, the doctor, therapists, and staff felt that he is not able to be at home at this point, even with help, and he agrees.
He is unable to stand alone or to transfer from bed to wheelchair unassisted or vice versa, and he requires physical assistance to move himself around with a walker using only his good leg. He is very weak and feels exhausted after the slightest effort. He is having pain from the injury and the surgical sites and his leg is horribly bruised. He is not eating well at all.
His blood pressure and blood sugar levels are all over the place. He is still not permitted to bear any weight on the injured leg and that is likely to continue until the bones have healed which it is estimated will take 6-8 weeks after the surgery. (The injury was Monday January 26 and the surgery was Wednesday January 28.)
He has chosen to go to Shady Acres Convalescent Center...I am continuing to hope that his being away from home will be a temporary and short-term inconvenience and that he will recover his strength, mobility, and independence, and his wonderful spirit as well. This injury has been devastating to him and having to take him to a nursing home, even though it is his decision to go there, is without a doubt one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. *******
Everyone,
** is being released from the rehab center in Waycross tomorrow. They can provide services for the "acute" period of time after an injury and that is short-term. At his discharge planning, the doctor, therapists, and staff felt that he is not able to be at home at this point, even with help, and he agrees.
He is unable to stand alone or to transfer from bed to wheelchair unassisted or vice versa, and he requires physical assistance to move himself around with a walker using only his good leg. He is very weak and feels exhausted after the slightest effort. He is having pain from the injury and the surgical sites and his leg is horribly bruised. He is not eating well at all.
His blood pressure and blood sugar levels are all over the place. He is still not permitted to bear any weight on the injured leg and that is likely to continue until the bones have healed which it is estimated will take 6-8 weeks after the surgery. (The injury was Monday January 26 and the surgery was Wednesday January 28.)
He has chosen to go to Shady Acres Convalescent Center...I am continuing to hope that his being away from home will be a temporary and short-term inconvenience and that he will recover his strength, mobility, and independence, and his wonderful spirit as well. This injury has been devastating to him and having to take him to a nursing home, even though it is his decision to go there, is without a doubt one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. *******
Today
Today I saw a blind lady sitting in the park. She was smiling contentedly, her face turned towards the sun, soaking up the warmth of the rays caressing her face. Her sighted companion was looking at her, talking very animatedly, but turned so the sun didn’t shine directly into her eyes.
Such a contrast: One looking straight into the sun, affected only by its touch, and the other looking in the opposite direction but still enjoying the warmth she felt on her back, both enjoying it equally in their own way. I was tempted to stop and chat but didn’t want to break the spell so I walked quietly past.
A scene like that is just one of the more visceral effects of people watching, a habit in which I've indulged for a very long time. A diorama like this makes it all worthwhile.
Such a contrast: One looking straight into the sun, affected only by its touch, and the other looking in the opposite direction but still enjoying the warmth she felt on her back, both enjoying it equally in their own way. I was tempted to stop and chat but didn’t want to break the spell so I walked quietly past.
A scene like that is just one of the more visceral effects of people watching, a habit in which I've indulged for a very long time. A diorama like this makes it all worthwhile.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Not Sure What is Happening
I'm not quite sure what is happening with me right now. Not so very long ago, things like my less-than-a-year-old camera stopping working just before the most exciting trip of my life would have freaked me out big time but it hasn't even upset me. Not yet anyway. Even spending a couple of hours on the computer and telephone and discovering I had to ship it to New York didn't faze me. However, if it doesn't get back before March 4th, that might be another story altogether!
My sense of time has become so fluid that I don't realize how quickly it is passing by. For the first time in my adult memory, I have to check the actual date when I need to know it (and frequently the actual day of the week!). The days just slide by. Makes me wish I had known how good this felt a long time ago.
My sense of time has become so fluid that I don't realize how quickly it is passing by. For the first time in my adult memory, I have to check the actual date when I need to know it (and frequently the actual day of the week!). The days just slide by. Makes me wish I had known how good this felt a long time ago.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Time to Leave
It's time for "Mr. Murphy" to take permanent leave. Now that my trip is confirmed, he's trying to put his ugly foot in the door once again.
Another great day was capped by a gorgeous moon rising over Piedmont Park and I decided to take a picture. The camera that I bought last year refused to work. New batteries and everything I tried wouldn't work. Hopefully, my email to Olympus will get quick results.
All I need now is to have to buy a new camera when mine is less than a year old! Not going to rain on my parade, not going to rain on my parade, not going to.....
Another great day was capped by a gorgeous moon rising over Piedmont Park and I decided to take a picture. The camera that I bought last year refused to work. New batteries and everything I tried wouldn't work. Hopefully, my email to Olympus will get quick results.
All I need now is to have to buy a new camera when mine is less than a year old! Not going to rain on my parade, not going to rain on my parade, not going to.....
Monday, February 9, 2009
Still Pinching Myself
It's been a great day. I'm still walking on air and pinching myself to be sure I'm really awake and I really am going to England. And I'm with Thirtysomething: If the plane crashes, I do hope it's on the way back so everyone will know I'm a happy ghost!
Even more good news ~ Dr. Abernathy's office called with the labs from my checkup and told me he said, "Keep up the good work. Everything looks great."
So, for those who have made snide comments about my "protein bar and wine diet, I have one word: P-b-b-b-t!! (Best raspberry I can do without sound.)
Even more good news ~ Dr. Abernathy's office called with the labs from my checkup and told me he said, "Keep up the good work. Everything looks great."
So, for those who have made snide comments about my "protein bar and wine diet, I have one word: P-b-b-b-t!! (Best raspberry I can do without sound.)
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Long time no write
Sorry it's been awhile since I've updated, but things have been pretty hectic around here. Actually, pretty miserable. Coupled with my friend's loss, as mom wrote, we lost one of our beloved pets a week ago. Not equating his loss to that of a human being, but he was precious to us just the same. He was diagnosed with Cushing's Disease a year ago, and despite treatment and a hopeful prognosis of three good years, it wasn't meant to be. Our sweet cousin, who certainly has enough going on in her own life, was thoughtful enough to send me a card. The vet's office did, too, with all of the staff signing it. These gestures were rays of light in an otherwise bleak and sad week. Roo is handling it better than I thought she would, most likely because he's been sick for a while and we've been talking to her about heaven and how Rusty might not make it much longer. We chose a balloon with a dog on it, and she drew him a picture, which we attached to it. She released it "up to heaven" so Rusty would be able to have it. It actually did go really high, through a cloud and out of sight. I'm hoping this gives her some closure. Though we had his body cremated and now have his ashes, I don't think I'm ready to deal with her questions about how his body becomes this. It probably upsets me more than her, but I'm just not able to deal with that right now. It's hard enough not having him to curl up against my legs and night and keep me warm like he has for the past nine years.
DH's job search has hit more roadblocks. The local sales job he was hoping to get he was turned down for. The manager liked him but felt he needed someone with more sales experience who could bring in X number of accounts and money with them. We're waiting to hear from the guy in Charlotte, and that's about the only prospect he has at this time. We did make two decisions, however: he is going to try some brokering through some former co-workers and boss of his to make a little money and I'm applying for a local media specialist position. It is actually coming open next month and while it's not the ideal location or position for me, we have to get some insurance and salary going. This unemployment has lasted almost three months, and it's getting scary. Actually, about a month past scary, to be truthful. To emphasize how much the insurance is needed, Little Bit's cold turned into wheezing and we had to get a refill on her nebulizer medicine. With no prescription insurance, it was $125. When I took my older daughter to the doctor for a minor problem, it was $138! We have applied for Peachcare, a state health insurance program for children whose parents' incomes (or lack thereof) qualify, but it's taking a very long time for them to process our application because of the flood of applicants and shortage of people to process them.
Anyhow, if I can get this media position and DH can make a little money brokering, AND we can get through the end of the school year without having to pull Roo out of her pre-k program and not have to put Little Bit in a daycare situation until the fall, we'll be okay.
Just so I don't sound completely negative, I'm very, very happy for Mama and how much better she feels and is settling in. I'm also grateful for friends and family who are praying for us and keeping us in their thoughts (such as the neighbor who works for General Mills and brought us 7 boxes of cereal Saturday!). Hopefully, I'll have some more positive stuff to write about soon.
P.S. BIG pet peeve with me, hearing a parent berate their child by calling them names. Certainly, I have fussed at my kids, but I have never degraded them by calling them names and shaming them for a natural fear. Grrr.....
DH's job search has hit more roadblocks. The local sales job he was hoping to get he was turned down for. The manager liked him but felt he needed someone with more sales experience who could bring in X number of accounts and money with them. We're waiting to hear from the guy in Charlotte, and that's about the only prospect he has at this time. We did make two decisions, however: he is going to try some brokering through some former co-workers and boss of his to make a little money and I'm applying for a local media specialist position. It is actually coming open next month and while it's not the ideal location or position for me, we have to get some insurance and salary going. This unemployment has lasted almost three months, and it's getting scary. Actually, about a month past scary, to be truthful. To emphasize how much the insurance is needed, Little Bit's cold turned into wheezing and we had to get a refill on her nebulizer medicine. With no prescription insurance, it was $125. When I took my older daughter to the doctor for a minor problem, it was $138! We have applied for Peachcare, a state health insurance program for children whose parents' incomes (or lack thereof) qualify, but it's taking a very long time for them to process our application because of the flood of applicants and shortage of people to process them.
Anyhow, if I can get this media position and DH can make a little money brokering, AND we can get through the end of the school year without having to pull Roo out of her pre-k program and not have to put Little Bit in a daycare situation until the fall, we'll be okay.
Just so I don't sound completely negative, I'm very, very happy for Mama and how much better she feels and is settling in. I'm also grateful for friends and family who are praying for us and keeping us in their thoughts (such as the neighbor who works for General Mills and brought us 7 boxes of cereal Saturday!). Hopefully, I'll have some more positive stuff to write about soon.
P.S. BIG pet peeve with me, hearing a parent berate their child by calling them names. Certainly, I have fussed at my kids, but I have never degraded them by calling them names and shaming them for a natural fear. Grrr.....
Leaving on a Jet Plane (finally)
With sincere apologies to the Judds (and Peter, Paul & Mary):
I'm leaving for England on March 4 and coming back on March 26. With the actual dates set, I'm really am excited now. So much to do and can hardly wait to leave!
My wonderful son is donating his Frequent Flyer Miles to pay my fare and my wonderful son-in-law is going to take me to the airport since the other Mr. Wonderful is going to be working in California that week. And Thirtysomething has promised to do her best to keep up the blog while I'm gone.
Do I have great kids or what!?!
"I know where I'm goin'...
Got my reservations...
I know my destination
It's a' waiting for me
I got no hesitation
That's where I want to be..."
I'm leaving for England on March 4 and coming back on March 26. With the actual dates set, I'm really am excited now. So much to do and can hardly wait to leave!
My wonderful son is donating his Frequent Flyer Miles to pay my fare and my wonderful son-in-law is going to take me to the airport since the other Mr. Wonderful is going to be working in California that week. And Thirtysomething has promised to do her best to keep up the blog while I'm gone.
Do I have great kids or what!?!
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Days Like Today
Thirtysomething and her family have been passing a cold around all week and they feel pretty lousy, especially Little Bit who does not suffer any deviation from her norm very well.
It's hard to be miserable on a gorgeous day like today though. It's come all the way from a chill factor of zero last Tuesday to the 70s today when I had to turn my a/c on once again. Ain't nature grand?
My back has finally started behaving better and I walked over to the park to stretch it a bit. The number of people and dogs there enjoying the sun was amazing. There were literally hundreds. Atlantans are a hearty bunch and you see will some of them running, walking, etc. despite sun or wind or rain or sleet or snow (you get the picture) but they were out in hordes today.
One person asked me earlier where the "dog park" was. Looking around, I thought, 'Where isn't it!' From chihuahuas to mastiffs and everything in between, nearly everyone had at least one canine pet with them.
It was fun just to watch everyone do their thing. One guy was rollerblading along sans shirt and singing at the top of this voice, totally oblivious to the laughter following him. He probably had an ear bud in and didn't hear it but the fact he sounded awful didn't seem to bother him in the least.
The only thing that marred my walk was hearing a mother call her young son a wimp because he was afraid to try to ride his bike without training wheels. He couldn't have been more than 5 or 6, and that pavement probably looked twice as hard to him as her. After all, he was much closer to it!
I really wanted to tell her to let him be a kid and enjoy him while she could but I decided to keep my big mouth shut since she didn't continue her rant and didn't hit him. It takes all kinds I suppose but I really wish parents would think before they speak harshly to their children and/or call them names. Once it's out, you sure as heck can't take it back!
Even so, it's great to be alive! And I won't let people like her spoil it for me.
It's hard to be miserable on a gorgeous day like today though. It's come all the way from a chill factor of zero last Tuesday to the 70s today when I had to turn my a/c on once again. Ain't nature grand?
My back has finally started behaving better and I walked over to the park to stretch it a bit. The number of people and dogs there enjoying the sun was amazing. There were literally hundreds. Atlantans are a hearty bunch and you see will some of them running, walking, etc. despite sun or wind or rain or sleet or snow (you get the picture) but they were out in hordes today.
One person asked me earlier where the "dog park" was. Looking around, I thought, 'Where isn't it!' From chihuahuas to mastiffs and everything in between, nearly everyone had at least one canine pet with them.
It was fun just to watch everyone do their thing. One guy was rollerblading along sans shirt and singing at the top of this voice, totally oblivious to the laughter following him. He probably had an ear bud in and didn't hear it but the fact he sounded awful didn't seem to bother him in the least.
The only thing that marred my walk was hearing a mother call her young son a wimp because he was afraid to try to ride his bike without training wheels. He couldn't have been more than 5 or 6, and that pavement probably looked twice as hard to him as her. After all, he was much closer to it!
I really wanted to tell her to let him be a kid and enjoy him while she could but I decided to keep my big mouth shut since she didn't continue her rant and didn't hit him. It takes all kinds I suppose but I really wish parents would think before they speak harshly to their children and/or call them names. Once it's out, you sure as heck can't take it back!
Even so, it's great to be alive! And I won't let people like her spoil it for me.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Still Cloudy
Sorry I'm a bit slow about updating things but it is still painful to sit in front of the computer long enough to write very much.
Apparently the drive to and from McRae, combined with the annoyance encountered there and sleeping on an air mattress in a chilly house for two nights, aggravated something besides my head. Chiropractor helped but not as much as usual. I have an SOS in to my doctor in Macon and am waiting to hear from them.
More soon (hopefully).
Apparently the drive to and from McRae, combined with the annoyance encountered there and sleeping on an air mattress in a chilly house for two nights, aggravated something besides my head. Chiropractor helped but not as much as usual. I have an SOS in to my doctor in Macon and am waiting to hear from them.
More soon (hopefully).
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Cloud Moving Back?
I think Joe Btfsplk is following me again. Or at least his cloud is hovering nearby. I had a good day until about mid afternoon. I found a new family doctor who is just like a small town physician, a rarity here I imagine. First, I had a checkup to get myself established with his practice and everything went great.
Afterwards, I ran a couple of errands before returning home. Shortly after I was snugly ensconced out of that bitter cold wind, I turned just a bit awkwardly and felt a really sharp pain in my side that quickly moved around to my back. Needless to say, I've been in misery since then despite a couple of pills that should have done the trick. (Guess they've lost their magic too.)
I'm didn't move much all afternoon but just discovered it hurts more to lie down on the bed so the night ahead should be interesting. I'm glad I have a supply of library books on hand!
I apologize to Cuz for not calling as I intended to today. Her very welcome update says my uncle is still doing well and we are all truly grateful for that.
Afterwards, I ran a couple of errands before returning home. Shortly after I was snugly ensconced out of that bitter cold wind, I turned just a bit awkwardly and felt a really sharp pain in my side that quickly moved around to my back. Needless to say, I've been in misery since then despite a couple of pills that should have done the trick. (Guess they've lost their magic too.)
I'm didn't move much all afternoon but just discovered it hurts more to lie down on the bed so the night ahead should be interesting. I'm glad I have a supply of library books on hand!
I apologize to Cuz for not calling as I intended to today. Her very welcome update says my uncle is still doing well and we are all truly grateful for that.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Sad News
It seems the black cloud followed me from McRae and is hovering over Thirtysomething and her family now. Their 12-year-old pup lost his hard fight against Cushing's Disease today and they are broken-hearted. Rusty, a mixed terrier adopted from the Humane Society shortly after their marriage, was one of their "babies" and very special to all of us, but especially to them.
They knew last night that something was up when he went outside and hid behind a kiddie pool that has been propped upside down. This short-haired little guy was very cold natured and this was completely out of character for him. He had a rough night and when the vet saw him this morning, she said it was "time." He seemed to realize it too. He didn't put up his usual struggle about going to the doctor, was very calm, and even allowed her to pet him.
All this is made much more difficult by the recent loss of a friend's child as well as the seemingly endless job searching and I'd very much appreciate everyone keeping them in their prayers. Those who aren't dog lovers might not understand the depth of this type pain but those of us who love our pets do. Both dogs they adopted early into their marriage are gone now and I suppose it's like the end of some sort of era for them. In any event, it certainly added a lot to the stress they're already under. Just another straw on the proverbial camel's back.
They knew last night that something was up when he went outside and hid behind a kiddie pool that has been propped upside down. This short-haired little guy was very cold natured and this was completely out of character for him. He had a rough night and when the vet saw him this morning, she said it was "time." He seemed to realize it too. He didn't put up his usual struggle about going to the doctor, was very calm, and even allowed her to pet him.
All this is made much more difficult by the recent loss of a friend's child as well as the seemingly endless job searching and I'd very much appreciate everyone keeping them in their prayers. Those who aren't dog lovers might not understand the depth of this type pain but those of us who love our pets do. Both dogs they adopted early into their marriage are gone now and I suppose it's like the end of some sort of era for them. In any event, it certainly added a lot to the stress they're already under. Just another straw on the proverbial camel's back.
Comic "Relief"
With all the bad news going on and personal problems, I had to share this. It certainly gave me a good laugh. http://www.ajc.com/news/content/shared-gen/ap/Feature_Stories/ODD_Toilet_Shot.html?cxntlid=thbz_hm
My friend Jerry said it's a wonder they didn't hold a "sit-down" affair. Only he could top something this funny with a smart remark like that.
My friend Jerry said it's a wonder they didn't hold a "sit-down" affair. Only he could top something this funny with a smart remark like that.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
What a Game!
A great Super Bowl game but the last 30 seconds or so added some gray hairs that I definitely did not need. Holmes was outstanding and well deserved to be named MVP. Go Steelers!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
